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Welcome 

Thank you for purchasing a Sony VAIO

®

 computer! Your new computer is a superb blend of high technology and easy-to-use

functionality. The information provided here is designed to help you to become familiar with the hardware and software
programs included with your computer. 

View the 

Electronic Flyer

, which provides updates and supplemental information about your computer. 

Go to the 

Sony online support Web site

, to view the VAIO

®

 Computer Specifications, which lists your computer's

hardware specifications and preinstalled software information. 

You are prompted to register your computer the first time you turn on the computer. Follow the on-screen
instructions to complete the registration process. If you are not able to register your computer during the first
session, you can register your computer online at the Sony VAIO PC Registration Web site. Go to 

http://www.sony.com/vaioregistration

For information about the Sony software preinstalled on your computer, click 

Start

 in the Windows

®

 taskbar, click 

All

Programs

, and then click 

VAIO Central

. Click the 

Categories

 tab, click the 

System Information

 folder, then click

Software Information

Page 1

Summary of Contents for VAIO VGC-RB56G

Page 1: ...ur computer s hardware specifications and preinstalled software information You are prompted to register your computer the first time you turn on the computer Follow the on screen instructions to complete the registration process If you are not able to register your computer during the first session you can register your computer online at the Sony VAIO PC Registration Web site Go to http www sony...

Page 2: ... of the Sony VAIO computer Your new high performance multimedia computer combines state of the art computer functionality with the latest audio video and information technology features Unpacking Your Computer Planning an Ergonomic Work Space Page 2 ...

Page 3: ...ot supplied with all V A IO computer models See your computer s specification sheet for details on your computer s supplied accessories Manuals VAIO Computer Safety Information Provides safety legal guidelines and owner information VAIO Computer Welcome Provides information about supplied accessories and your computer s hardware configuration Online Documentation VAIO Computer User Guide Contains ...

Page 4: ...Burn music CDs from MP3 WMA WAV and CDA files or make backup copies of your CDs Back up your data with Sonic DigitalMedia software Drag and drop to make custom data CDs or DVDs or make backup copies of your CDs and DVDs For more information about using the Sony software programs preinstalled on your computer visit VAIO Support Central To access this software information 1 Click Start in the Window...

Page 5: ...are and Sony end user license agreements 1Your computer may not be equipped with Microsoft Windows XP Media C enter Edition operating system or Media C enter hardware features See your computer s online specifications sheet for more information Page 5 ...

Page 6: ...rest your hands on the table Position the mouse at the same level as the keyboard Hold the mouse with a relaxed hand and use your whole arm to move it Take breaks during sessions with your computer Excessive use of the mouse or a joystick may strain muscles or tendons Furniture and posture Sit in a chair with good back support and armrests Adjust the level of the chair so your feet are flat on the...

Page 7: ...h all of these hardware features or accessories The location of the controls ports and jacks may vary from the illustrations shown in this section To view the specific connection capabilities for your computer see the online Specifications sheet About the Front Panel About the Back Panel About the Keyboard About the Wireless Mouse About the Remote Control About the i LINK Port Page 7 ...

Page 8: ...trols ports and jacks may vary from the illustrations shown in this section Front panel 1 Optical drive 1 See the online specifications sheet for optical drive information 2 Optical drive 2 See the online specifications sheet for optical drive information 3 SmartMedia SM xD Picture Card memory card reader Reads and writes data from and to SmartMedia or xD Picture Card media 4 CompactFlash and Micr...

Page 9: ...emory Stick Pro and Memory Stick Duo media 12 Secure Digital SD MultiMediaCard MMC memory card reader Reads and writes data from and to a Secure Digital SD or MultiMediaCard MMC 13 Hard disk drive access indicator Light is amber while the hard disk drive is reading and writing data 14 Power button The power button turns the computer on off 15 Standby indicator Light is amber when the computer is p...

Page 10: ...ion Before connecting compatible i LINK devices to your computer such as an optical or hard disk drive confirm their operating system compatibility and required operating conditions To open the front panel cover The front of your computer has a panel that covers memory card readers USB and i LINK ports Do not force the panel cover open or handle roughly Opening the front panel cover Page 10 ...

Page 11: ...acks on your computer may vary from those shown in this illustration based on the computer model purchased See your computer s specification sheet for details on hardware configuration Back panel 1 AC Input port Connection for the supplied power cord 2 Mouse port Connection for a PS 2 mouse 3 Keyboard port Connection for a PS 2 keyboard 4 Printer port Connection for a parallel device such as a pri...

Page 12: ...optional Composite video In jack2 Connection for a video cable optional S video In jack2 Connection for an S video cable optional 9 Modem line jack3 Connection for an RJ 11 telephone cable optional 10 i LINK 6 pin S400 port IEEE 1394 Connection and power for a compatible digital device such as a Sony Digital Handycam camcorder 11 Ethernet port Connection for a 10BASE T 100BASE TX 1000BASE T Ethern...

Page 13: ...mputer at the same time Doing so may cause display malfunctions with some applications 2These audio video connections are not available on all models 3A n optional 1 to 2 jack adapter device splitter is required to connect both a telephone and modem line to your computer 4 C ertain V A IO computer models may be supplied with a 5 1 speaker system See your computer s specifications sheet for details...

Page 14: ...less or PS 2 1 keyboard may be supplied with your VAIO computer based on the computer model purchased See your computer s specifications sheet for details on your computer s supplied accessories 1A PS 2 keyboard is equipped with a PS 2 type connector that plugs into the back panel of your V A IO computer Page 14 ...

Page 15: ... Wireless Keyboard Wireless keyboard bottom 1 Keyboard feet Extend the feet to adjust the keyboard height 2 CONNECT button Press to enable the wireless keyboard to communicate with the computer 3 Battery compartment Compartment for the supplied AA batteries Identifying keys and functions Your keyboard uses a standard key arrangement with additional keys that perform specific functions Wireless key...

Page 16: ...o clicking the right mouse button Windows The key with the Microsoft Windows logo displays the Start menu Pressing this key is equivalent to clicking Start on the taskbar BUTTON DESCRIPTION Volume Increases and decreases the volume Mute Turns the sound off Press again to restore sound Standby Places the computer in Stand by mode to reduce power consumption Press any key briefly to resume normal op...

Page 17: ...amage the keyboard Inserting batteries into the wireless keyboard If your wireless keyboard does not operate properly the batteries may need to be replaced When your wireless keyboard is not being used for extended periods of time remove the batteries to avoid possible damage from battery leakage Page 17 ...

Page 18: ...ume of the speakers Mute Press the button to turn off the speaker sound Press the Mute button again to restore sound Standby Press the button to place the computer in Standby mode Press the Power button or any key briefly to resume normal operation Numeric keypad Use the numeric keypad area to type numbers or to perform basic math calculations Press the Num Lock key to activate the numeric keypad ...

Page 19: ... numeric keypad is activated When the indicator is off the directional arrow and correction keys on the numeric keypad area are active Caps Lock The Caps Lock indicator lights up to advise you that the keyboard is set to type letters in uppercase When the indicator is off the letters appear in lower case as you type Scroll Lock The Scroll Lock indicator lights up to advise you that your screen s s...

Page 20: ... mouse top 1 Left mouse button Press to perform specific mouse functions 2 Wheel Rotate the wheel to scroll up or down on the LCD screen 3 Right mouse button Press to perform specific mouse functions Wireless mouse Side and bottom 1 Power switch Slide power switch to turn the mouse on or off 2 CONNECT button Press to enable communication between your VAIO computer and the wireless mouse To set up ...

Page 21: ...ys use the same type and manufacture of battery Using incompatible batteries or mixing used new batteries can damage the mouse Inserting batteries into the wireless mouse If your wireless mouse does not operate properly the batteries may need to be replaced When your wireless mouse is not being used for extended periods of time remove the batteries to avoid possible damage from battery leakage 1Se...

Page 22: ... mouse top 1 Left mouse button Press to perform specific mouse functions 2 Wheel Rotate the wheel to scroll up or down on the LCD screen 3 Right mouse button Press to perform specific mouse functions Wireless mouse Side and bottom 1 Power switch Slide power switch to turn the mouse on or off 2 CONNECT button Press to enable communication between your VAIO computer and the wireless mouse To set up ...

Page 23: ...ys use the same type and manufacture of battery Using incompatible batteries or mixing used new batteries can damage the mouse Inserting batteries into the wireless mouse If your wireless mouse does not operate properly the batteries may need to be replaced When your wireless mouse is not being used for extended periods of time remove the batteries to avoid possible damage from battery leakage 1Se...

Page 24: ...mputer s online specifications sheet Remote control The Media Center remote control can start and stop video recording and playback select channels and set viewing preferences This section describes the basic functions of your remote control Remote Control 1 MY MUSIC button Press to view and listen to your music playlists 2 MY TV button Press to view the My TV menu 3 STOP button Press to stop medi...

Page 25: ...one DVD chapter and seven seconds of TV or video REW button Press to move media backward at three speeds RECORD button Press to begin recording PLAY button Press to begin media playback 4 BACK button Press to return to the previous window 5 VOL button Press to increase or decrease the volume 6 RECORDED TV button Press to view previously recorded TV programs In My TV window 7 GUIDE button Press to ...

Page 26: ...r Media Center features 14 Directional arrow buttons Press the Up Down Left and Right arrow buttons to move the pointer on the screen OK button Press OK to select the desired action or window option If watching full screen TV press OK to return to the previous channel Press OK again to switch between channels 15 CH PG Channel Page button Press to change or page up down channels no number input req...

Page 27: ...own 4 Align the battery cover to the remote control 5 Press down until the cover clicks into place Inserting batteries into the remote control If your remote control does not operate properly you may need to replace the batteries When your remote control is not being used for extended periods of time remove the batteries to avoid possible damage from battery leakage 1Your computer may not be equip...

Page 28: ...pin connector The total power supplied by the 6 pin i LINK port does not exceed 6 watts Connecting an i LINK IEEE 1394 device 1 Use the symbol to locate the i LINK port on your compatible i LINK device and on your computer Plug the i LINK cable connector into this port 2 Plug the other end of the cable into the corresponding 4 or 6 pin i LINK port on your computer See the instructions supplied wit...

Page 29: ...ine Specifications sheet for your computer s hardware configuration Connecting a Display Monitor Connecting the Radio Frequency Receiver Connecting a Wireless Keyboard Connecting the Wireless Optical Mouse Connecting the Keyboard and Mouse Connecting 5 1 6 Channel Speaker Systems Configuring Software for Your Speaker System Configuring Software for Your Speaker System Connecting the Power Cords Tu...

Page 30: ...the Sony Online Support Web site at http www sony com pcsupport for details about your computer s hardware configuration 1 Plug the display s cable into the appropriate monitor port 2 If necessary plug the display s cable into the rear of the display To connect a display Install your equipment so that you can easily reach the power outlet in the event of an emergency Page 30 ...

Page 31: ...ncy receiver enables your VAIO computer to communicate with the wireless keyboard and mouse1 1C ertain V A IO computer models are supplied with a wireless keyboard and mouse See your computer s specifications sheet for details on supplied accessories Page 31 ...

Page 32: ... panel of your computer 2 Press the CONNECT button on the bottom of the radio frequency receiver to activate communication between the wireless keyboard and the computer 3 Position the radio frequency receiver to enable unobstructed communication with your wireless keyboard and mouse To connect the radio frequency receiver Page 32 ...

Page 33: ...he keyboard To connect your wireless keyboard it must be within 11 inches of the computer2 When attempting to connect the wireless keyboard confirm that the AA batteries supplied are properly inserted into the keyboard before your computer is turned on 1See your computer s specifications sheet for details about supplied accessories 2O perate the keyboard within 2 5 feet of the computer Page 33 ...

Page 34: ... Press the CONNECT button located on the bottom of the radio frequency receiver first and then press the CONNECT button on the bottom of the keyboard Verify the radio frequency receiver is free of obstructions that may prevent proper operation Avoid using radio controlled toys or equipment CB radios and other wireless devices in the area near your wireless keyboard These devices may cause interfer...

Page 35: ...installed Press the CONNECT button located on the bottom of the radio frequency receiver first and then press the CONNECT button on the bottom of the mouse Verify the radio frequency receiver is free of obstructions that may prevent proper operation Avoid using radio controlled toys or equipment CB radios and other wireless devices in the area near your wireless mouse These devices may cause inter...

Page 36: ...nd mouse For details on the accessories supplied with your computer see the online Specifications sheet 1 Plug the keyboard cable into the keyboard port on the back of the computer 2 Plug the mouse cable into the mouse port on the back of the computer To connect the keyboard and mouse Page 36 ...

Page 37: ...1 Connect a Sub woofer2 control module or Center speaker 5 1 channel speaker system3 Black Rear Connect rear speakers 5 1 channel speaker system Pink Microphone Connection for an optional microphone Green Front Headphones Connect the supplied speakers 2 channel front speakers 5 1 channel speaker system or optional headphones Blue Line In Connect an audio device 1Speaker system connections vary by ...

Page 38: ... in the Windows taskbar and then click Control Panel 2 Click Sounds Speech and Audio Devices and then click Reality Audio The Sound Reality Control Panel window appears 3 Click the Advanced tab 4 Select the Enable Digital Output box 5 Close the Sound Reality Control Panel window To configure Media Center software Your computer s factory default settings for audio can be changed using the Media Cen...

Page 39: ...VD window A shortcut menu appears 4 Click Setup to view the Setup dialog box 5 Select the Audio tab 6 From the section Audio Speaker Configuration select 6 Channel 5 1 Home Theater or the desired speaker configuration To enable S PDIF go to the Audio Output Configuration section and select Digital S PDIF out to External Processor 7 Click Apply and then click OK InterVideo software automatically de...

Page 40: ...ephone s cable into one of the jacks on an optional 1 to 2 jack adapter device splitter 3 Insert one end of a second telephone cable optional into the other jack on the splitter device 4 Insert the plug end of the splitter device into the wall jack 5 Plug the second telephone cable into the modem line jack located on the back panel of the computer To connect the telephone and modem Your computer h...

Page 41: ...ecting the Power Cords 1 Plug the power cord into the back of the computer 2 Plug both the display and computer power cords into a grounded AC wall outlet or a power strip To connect the power cords Page 41 ...

Page 42: ...computer has Microsoft Windows XP Media Center Edition installed set up the cables and connections required to use these features before you turn on the computer See the section Setting Up Media Center 1 Press the power button on the computer to turn on the power 2 Press the power button on the display to turn on the power 3 Press the power button on the right speaker to turn on the power To turn ...

Page 43: ...and music playback This section describes how to set up your TV set top box and other equipment Setting Up TV Connections Connecting the Remote Sensor and Remote Sensor Controls Connecting Other Devices Registering Your Computer Turning Off Your Computer 1Your computer may not be equipped with Microsoft Windows XP Media C enter Edition operating system or Media C enter hardware features See your c...

Page 44: ...home Your computer s hardware configuration may vary from the illustrations shown in this section See the online Specifications sheet for details about your computer s hardware configuration Your VAIO computer is supplied with certain video cables Depending on your in home cable access you may require extra cables adapters or connection equipment that are optional for your computer Page 44 ...

Page 45: ...cable optional to your cable service access Connect the other end to the single connection side of a splitter adapter 2 Connect the TV coaxial cable optional to the double connection side of the splitter adapter Connect the other end to the VHF UHF port on the back panel of your computer 3 Connect a third TV coaxial cable optional to the double connection side of the splitter adapter Connect the o...

Page 46: ...cable optional to your antenna outlet Connect the other end to a VHF UHF RF combiner transformer optional 2 Connect the TV coaxial cable optional from the combiner transformer to the VHF UHF port on the back panel of your computer Option 2 1 Connect both ends of the antenna s twin lead cable to the screw type grips on the combiner transformer 2 Connect the TV coaxial cable optional from the combin...

Page 47: ...d of the splitter adapter Connect the other end to the VHF UHF port on the rear of your TV monitor or display To connect in set top box mode Option 1 Option 2 1 Connect one end of the TV coaxial cable optional to your cable service access Connect the other end to the In jack on the back panel of your set top box 2 Connect a second TV coaxial cable optional to the Out jack on your set top box Conne...

Page 48: ...You can connect your computer to a set top box using an S video cable optional and an audio cable optional instead of a stereo A V dubbing cable optional See Connecting Other Devices Page 48 ...

Page 49: ...tes with the Media Center remote control enabling you to change channels and to perform other functions If you are using a cable or satellite set top box you can attach the remote sensor control which enables you to control the set top box using the Media Center remote control Page 49 ...

Page 50: ...ct the remote sensor unit to a USB port located on either the front or back panel of your computer 2 Position the remote sensor to enable unobstructed communication with your remote control Connecting the remote sensor back panel Page 50 ...

Page 51: ...or control 2 Remove the adhesive tape cover located on the bottom of the remote sensor control 3 Press the remote sensor control onto the set top box near the infrared port without covering the port If the remote sensor control covers the infrared port on the set top box you cannot use the remote control supplied with the set top box Attaching the remote sensor control cable to a cable or satellit...

Page 52: ...he back panel of your computer 2 Connect the other ends of the dual audio cable to your VCR or camcorder Connecting a device with an S video cable 1 Connect an S video cable optional directly into the S video jack on the back panel of your computer 2 Connect the other end of the S video cable into the appropriate port on your compatible VCR or camcorder Connecting a device with a stereo A V dubbin...

Page 53: ...lay located on either the side or back of your TV monitor display 3 Connect the single jack end of an audio cable optional to the Headphones jack located on the back panel of your computer Connect the double jack end of the audio cable to the Audio In L R on your TV monitor or display The Audio In jacks may be located on the side or rear of your TV monitor display Connecting a TV monitor or displa...

Page 54: ...mputer dialog box appears 2 Select the Turn Off option Respond to any prompts about saving your documents 3 Wait for your computer to turn off automatically the power indicator light turns off 4 Turn off any peripheral devices connected to your computer About the Power button If your computer stops responding press and hold the Power button for more than six seconds to force your system to shut do...

Page 55: ... investment See the Limited Warranty Card for more details You are prompted to register your computer the first time you turn on the computer Follow the on screen instructions to complete the registration process If you are not able to register your computer during the first session you can register your computer online at the Sony VAIO PC Registration Web site Go to http www sony com vaioregistra...

Page 56: ...Readers This section provides basic information about using your computer s installed memory card readers About Your Memory Card Readers Inserting a Memory Card Removing a Memory Card About Memory Stick Media Sharing Memory Cards Page 56 ...

Page 57: ...mory card readers that are compatible with many popular types of memory cards You can use your computer s memory card readers to transfer data between digital cameras camcorders music players and other audio video devices Memory card readers and compatible media Page 57 ...

Page 58: ...s may be located on the side panel See your computer s specification sheet for details about your computer s memory card reader configuration Opening a front panel cover 1 Locate the appropriate reader for the memory card you want to use 2 Insert the memory card into the reader in the direction of the arrow on the media Do not force the card into the reader If the memory card does not go into the ...

Page 59: ...computer model Use care when removing a memory card to avoid damage to the reader or card Do not remove a memory card while the media access indicator light is on The card or its data may become damaged To remove memory card media 1 Firmly grasp the extended part of the memory card 2 Carefully pull to remove from the reader Page 59 ...

Page 60: ...1 3 smaller in size Compatibility between software programs and Memory Stick media formats may vary At this time Sony suggests using only MagicGate Memory Stick media to store and transfer any data created with SonicStage software Visit the Sony online support Web site at http www sony com pcsupport regularly for the latest information on Memory Stick media Memory Stick media do not support AVI fi...

Page 61: ...rly Format the memory card by using it in the device first See the information supplied with the device for details how to format the memory card If your device does not recognize memory card that has been formatted by your computer follow these steps 1 Save the card s contents to your hard disk drive 2 Reformat the memory card using the device not your computer Page 61 ...

Page 62: ... the functionality of your VAIO computer This section describes how to perform basic upgrades and maintenance on your system Overview About Opening the Computer About Add on Card Installation About Installing Memory About the Lithium Battery About Hard Disk Drive Installation Page 62 ...

Page 63: ...ral equipment Otherwise damage may occur to the integrated circuits Your computer may not be equipped with all of the hardware features mentioned in this section The interior hardware configuration of your computer may vary from the illustrations depending on the computer purchased You may need to temporarily remove add on cards or other components that may be near the slot cover you plan to remov...

Page 64: ...devices 3 Position the system unit with the back panel facing towards you 4 Unscrew the side cover release screws located on the edge of the back panel and set them aside Removing the release screws 5 When the screws are removed the side cover is released Grasp the raised handle on the back edge of the side cover pulling the cover towards the back of the unit Removing the cover Page 64 ...

Page 65: ...e internal parts of the system unit cool down before you attempt to remove the cover Replacing the cover 1 Hold the side cover against the side of the computer with the side cover extending about 2 inches past the back of the computer 2 Slide the side cover forward onto the unit until it is evenly aligned and stays in place 3 Replace the release screws Replacing the cover Page 65 ...

Page 66: ... Installing an add on card 1 Shut down your computer and turn off all peripheral devices such as your printer 2 Unplug your computer and any peripheral devices 3 Remove the side cover See Removing the side cover 4 Locate an available expansion slot Remove the slot cover s screw and then remove the slot cover When removing a slot cover be careful not to damage components on the system board or add ...

Page 67: ...rnal cables that the card requires See the instructions supplied with the add on card 7 Replace the side cover See Replacing the cover 8 Reconnect the power cord and all peripheral devices 9 Turn on the computer Page 67 ...

Page 68: ...your local retailer Observe the proper safety precautions when you add or remove the memory in your computer See Before upgrading your computer Removing a memory module 1 Shut down your computer and turn off all peripheral devices such as your printer 2 Unplug your computer and any peripheral devices 3 Remove the side cover See Removing the side cover 4 Gently place the unit on its side If necessa...

Page 69: ...rom its anti static package handling it by the the edges 6 Locate the notch on the bottom edge of the module to align it over the open memory slot 7 Firmly insert the bottom edge of the memory module into the slot 8 Press down evenly against the module s upper corners The latches snap into position holding the module in place To avoid damaging a memory module slot move the end latches slightly out...

Page 70: ... the new battery with the plus side facing up Replacing a lithium battery 7 Replace the cover See Replacing the cover The values stored in the CMOS memory are now reset to the factory default values Run the Setup utility to reset the date time passwords and other changes you may have made to the BIOS settings If you do not wish to customize your BIOS settings do not run the Setup utility Dispose o...

Page 71: ...ecover your computer s operating system and preinstalled software programs For more information about the VAIO Recovery Wizard utility program 1 Click Start from the Windows taskbar click Control Panel then click Performance and Maintenance 2 From the Performance and Maintenance window click VAIO Recovery Wizard Your computer must have an active Internet connection to access the Sony online suppor...

Page 72: ...he drive holder screw s 7 Slide the drive holder out Removing the drive holder 8 Slide the new drive into the drive holder aligning the holes on each side of the drive to the holes in the drive holder 9 Secure the drive to the drive holder with screws Attaching the drive screws Your new hard disk drive is supplied with the necessary screws Do not overtighten these screws when securing the new driv...

Page 73: ...ows taskbar then right click My Computer A shortcut menu appears 3 Select Manage The Computer Management window appears 4 Under the file directory go to Storage and then select Disk Management 5 Right click on the newly installed unformatted hard disk Disk label identified with red marking From the shortcut menu select Initialize Disk 6 Click on the Unallocated area of the disk and then right clic...

Page 74: ...software Your computer may not be equipped with all of the features or software discussed in this section depending on the computer model or configuration purchased About VAIO Computer Functions About System Security About Media Center About the Mouse and Keyboard About the Modem About the Speakers About Using a Microphone About Using Peripheral Equipment Page 74 ...

Page 75: ...ugged the computer into a power strip or Uninterruptible Power Supply UPS make sure the power strip or UPS is turned on and working Verify that the monitor is plugged into a power source and turned on If your computer has a built in monitor confirm that it is plugged into an appropriate power source and that the computer is turned on Verify that the brightness or contrast control dials are adjuste...

Page 76: ...ugged the computer into a power strip or Uninterruptible Power Supply UPS make sure the power strip or UPS is turned on and working Verify that the monitor is plugged into a power source and turned on If your computer has a built in monitor confirm that it is plugged into an appropriate power source and that the computer is turned on Verify that the brightness or contrast control dials are adjuste...

Page 77: ...ut Down Windows1 window appears 3 Click the drop down list box and select Restart 4 Click OK The computer turns off and restarts If the Shut Down Windows window does not appear 1 Press Ctrl Alt Delete The Windows Task Manager window appears 2 Click Shut Down 3 Restart your computer If your computer still does not respond and you cannot restart shut down your computer by pressing and holding the po...

Page 78: ...r troubleshooting information you can search Windows Help 1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar and select Help and Support The Help and Support Center menu appears 2 Select Fixing a Problem and then select Startup and Shut Down problems A list of specific problem topics appears on the right side of the window 3 Select Startup and Shutdown Troubleshooter Follow the on screen instructions according ...

Page 79: ...y programs that you are not currently using Increasing the computer memory may also help For information on installing memory please see the online VAIO User Guide To access the online User Guide 1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar click VAIO Support Central 2 From the VAIO Support Central menu click VAIO Documentation 3 Click VAIO User Guide Page 79 ...

Page 80: ... in the Windows taskbar and then select Control Panel 2 Select Appearance and Themes and then select Change the screen resolution 3 Click the Settings tab 4 Change the Screen resolution and Color quality to the desired levels 5 Click Apply and then click OK Page 80 ...

Page 81: ... For troubleshooting information you can search Windows Help 1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar and select Help and Support The VAIO Help And Support Center menu appears 2 Select Fixing a Problem and then select Startup and Shut Down problems A list of specific problem topics appears on the right side of the window 3 Select Startup and Shutdown Troubleshooter Follow the on screen instructions ac...

Page 82: ...he Internet The Windows Updates Web site This site enables you to download computer updates without turning on the Automatic Updates feature Your computer must be connected to the Internet before you can receive updates To use the Automatic Updates feature 1 Connect to the Internet 2 Click the Automatic Updates icon in the Taskbar notification area The Automatic Updates Setup Wizard appears 3 Clic...

Page 83: ...he Internet The Windows Updates Web site This site enables you to download computer updates without turning on the Automatic Updates feature Your computer must be connected to the Internet before you can receive updates To use the Automatic Updates feature 1 Connect to the Internet 2 Click the Automatic Updates icon in the Taskbar notification area The Automatic Updates Setup Wizard appears 3 Clic...

Page 84: ...ion area If you have not previously registered the antivirus software a series of information wizards appear 1 Follow the on screen instructions to complete each wizard 2 Double click the Norton Internet Security icon again The Norton Internet Security window appears If you have previously registered this antivirus software the Norton Internet Security window automatically appears 2 Click Live Upd...

Page 85: ... Digital Studio computers See your online specifications sheet for more information about your computer s configuration Why doesn t the REW button on the remote control work when I use My Music The REW button does not rewind music files Instead press Replay on your remote control for a similar function Page 85 ...

Page 86: ... Digital Studio computers See your online specifications sheet for more information about your computer s configuration Why doesn t the REW button on the remote control work when I use My Music The REW button does not rewind music files Instead press Replay on your remote control for a similar function Page 86 ...

Page 87: ...penMG ATRAC format and make edits such as title artist or genre using SonicStage software the changes become visible when the music file is played in My Music If you make changes to a music file using Media Center the changes are not visible when played in SonicStage software Page 87 ...

Page 88: ...ftware to edit the song s information you may not see your changes when you play the song in My Music Windows Media Player supports playback of songs recorded in OpenMG ATRAC3 or ATRAC3 format but does not support any edits made to the OpenMG format music files Use SonicStage software to edit song information for music files that are recorded in OpenMG format Page 88 ...

Page 89: ...en you use SonicStage software to optimize music files to ATRAC3 or ATRAC3 format it may take a few moments for the music files to be available in My Music To access these files sooner start Windows Media Player software first and then play the song with My Music Page 89 ...

Page 90: ...ayback of this file You can go to Microsoft and download a patch to resolve this issue1 as follows 1 Go to http support microsoft com 2 Enter 814129 in the Search the Knowledge Base text box 3 Click on the topic FIX Error in Windows Media Player 9 Series When You Play Specific MP3 Files located in the Summaries Search Results area 4 Follow the on screen instructions to download and install the pat...

Page 91: ...with SonicStage software Playlists albums recorded with SonicStage software may not be immediately available in the Media Center Album window To access these files sooner start Windows Media Player software first and then play the song with My Music Page 91 ...

Page 92: ...re of Click to DVD software both require the use a TV tuner MPEG encoder card and cannot access the card at the same time To avoid recording conflicts Do not open Media Center while capturing analog video using Click to DVD or Click to DVD Automatic Mode software Do not schedule a TV recording to start while capturing analog video using Click to DVD or Click to DVD Automatic Mode software If a sch...

Page 93: ...e background in the View window the movie may be copyright protected Your computer is not able to display or record a video or DVD that is copyright protected by Macrovision or CGMS A Copy Generation Management System Analog Media Center software does not support recording a movie using analog input from external devices such as a VCR DVD player or Digital video camera Page 93 ...

Page 94: ...Why can t I fast forward or rewind a video The rewind and fast forward features are not supported by all video formats Try using the Skip or Replay buttons which provides a similar function Page 94 ...

Page 95: ...g TV programs Media Center software and remote control do not have video adjustment capability Use the controls on the monitor to adjust video settings such as contrast hue and brightness See the information provided with your monitor for instructions on adjusting its video controls Page 95 ...

Page 96: ...s 1 Right click on the desktop and click Properties from the shortcut menu The Display Properties window appears 2 Click the Settings tab and then click Advanced 3 Click the Monitor tab and in the Monitor settings box confirm the screen refresh rate is set to 60 Hertz 4 If the refresh rate is not set to 60 Hz click the drop down arrow and select 60 Hertz Page 96 ...

Page 97: ...ouse there may be dust or dirt inside the mouse mechanism To clean the mouse follow these steps 1 Save and close all software programs and turn off your computer 2 Turn the mouse upside down 3 Remove the mouse ball cover on the back of the mouse by turning clockwise the ring that covers the mouse ball 4 Turn the mouse upright and drop the mouse ball into your hand 5 Using a piece of tape remove an...

Page 98: ...of battery do not mix alkaline with manganese batteries Using incompatible batteries or mixing used new or different types of batteries can damage the mouse 1For wireless or standard optical mice 2O perate the mouse V GP WMS1 within 3 2 feet of the computer O perate the mouse PC V A MS2 within 2 5 feet of the computer Page 98 ...

Page 99: ...ouse there may be dust or dirt inside the mouse mechanism To clean the mouse follow these steps 1 Save and close all software programs and turn off your computer 2 Turn the mouse upside down 3 Remove the mouse ball cover on the back of the mouse by turning clockwise the ring that covers the mouse ball 4 Turn the mouse upright and drop the mouse ball into your hand 5 Using a piece of tape remove an...

Page 100: ...of battery do not mix alkaline with manganese batteries Using incompatible batteries or mixing used new or different types of batteries can damage the mouse 1For wireless or standard optical mice 2O perate the mouse V GP WMS1 within 3 2 feet of the computer O perate the mouse PC V A MS2 within 2 5 feet of the computer Page 100 ...

Page 101: ...ws taskbar then click Control Panel 2 Click Printers and Other Hardware then click Mouse The Mouse Properties dialog box appears 3 From the Buttons tab select Switch primary and secondary buttons under the Button Configuration options 4 Click Apply then click OK Page 101 ...

Page 102: ...operation Avoid using radio controlled toys or equipment CB radios and other wireless devices in the area near your wireless keyboard These devices may cause interference causing your keyboard to stop working properly Do not place metal furniture near your computer or wireless keyboard as this may create interference causing your keyboard to stop working properly Do not mix old used and new batter...

Page 103: ...SP check the following Contact your telephone company and ask them to verify that your telephone line is free from line noise If your problem is fax related check that there are no problems with the fax machine you are calling and that it is compatible with fax modems For optimum performance verify that your ISP point of presence POP telephone number is compliant with V 90 standards If you are hav...

Page 104: ...SP check the following Contact your telephone company and ask them to verify that your telephone line is free from line noise If your problem is fax related check that there are no problems with the fax machine you are calling and that it is compatible with fax modems For optimum performance verify that your ISP point of presence POP telephone number is compliant with V 90 standards If you are hav...

Page 105: ... modem If you have installed other software contact the software publisher for information on how to configure the software in order to recognize the modem If it appears that your modem is not functioning properly check the device status 1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar then click Control Panel 2 Click Printers and Other Hardware and then select Phone and Modem Options 3 From the Modems tab cl...

Page 106: ... Click Start in the Windows taskbar then click Control Panel 2 Click Printers and Other Hardware then click Phone and Modem options 3 From the Dialing Rules tab click Edit The Edit Location dialog box appears 4 Select the Tone or Pulse option Click OK Page 106 ...

Page 107: ...ect All Programs 2 Point to Accessories point to Communications and then click New Connection Wizard The New Connection Wizard appears The Location Information and the Phone and Modem Options windows appear when using your computer for the first time Enter your information as requested and continue to the New Connection Wizard window 3 Follow the on screen instructions to finish setting up your di...

Page 108: ...ume level You may not hear sound from your speakers if headphones are connected to your computer If the software program you are using has its own volume control check that the volume is turned up Check the volume controls in the Windows operating system using these steps 1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar then select Control Panel 2 Select Sounds Speech and Audio Devices then click Adjust the s...

Page 109: ...ume level You may not hear sound from your speakers if headphones are connected to your computer If the software program you are using has its own volume control check that the volume is turned up Check the volume controls in the Windows operating system using these steps 1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar then select Control Panel 2 Select Sounds Speech and Audio Devices then click Adjust the s...

Page 110: ...indow opens 3 Right click in the WinDVD window A shortcut menu appears 4 Click Setup to view the Setup dialog box 5 Select the Audio tab 6 From the section Audio Speaker Configuration select 6 channel speaker 5 1 Home Theater or the desired speaker configuration To enable S PDIF go to Audio Output Configuration and select Digital S PDIF out to External Processor 7 Click Apply and then click OK Int...

Page 111: ...speaker system Change the audio settings in the RealTek Sound Effect Manager software program Change the audio settings in the InterVideo WinDVD software program Change the audio settings in the Media Center software program s DVD settings 1Your computer s supplied accessories may not include a 5 1 channel speaker system See your specifications sheet for details on your computer s supplied accesso...

Page 112: ...About Using a Microphone Why doesn t my microphone work properly Check that the microphone is plugged into the Microphone jack Page 112 ...

Page 113: ...About Using a Microphone Why doesn t my microphone work properly Check that the microphone is plugged into the Microphone jack Page 113 ...

Page 114: ... Sound recording section and click Volume The Recording Control dialog box appears If the volume control for the microphone is visible skip to step 6 4 Select the Options menu and click Properties The Properties dialog box appears 5 In the section Show the following volume controls click to select the Microphone check box Click OK 6 From the Recording Control dialog box decrease the microphone vol...

Page 115: ...ce a check mark in the box Automatically detect and install my Plug and Play printer if you are installing a recently manufactured printer equipped with Plug and Play capability 5 Select the appropriate port usually LPT1 if using the parallel port and then click Next 6 Select the appropriate printer manufacturer and model 7 Follow the on screen instructions to print a test page and complete printe...

Page 116: ...ce a check mark in the box Automatically detect and install my Plug and Play printer if you are installing a recently manufactured printer equipped with Plug and Play capability 5 Select the appropriate port usually LPT1 if using the parallel port and then click Next 6 Select the appropriate printer manufacturer and model 7 Follow the on screen instructions to print a test page and complete printe...

Page 117: ...y when the computer resumes from a power saving mode Clear the printer memory by turning the printer off for approximately 10 seconds and then turning it back on If your printer does not resume normal operations try restarting your computer Page 117 ...

Page 118: ... procedures for handling your computer and common peripheral devices and using storage media About the Power Source About Handling the Computer About Using a Monitor Display About Disposing of the Lithium Battery About Recording and Data Storage Media Page 118 ...

Page 119: ...wer fluctuations you may want to purchase an Uninterruptible Power Supply UPS This device contains both a surge protector and a battery backup The surge protector prevents damage to your computer caused by power surges The battery backup safeguards your data during a brief period of power loss The power control button on the front panel does not turn off the AC power To remove power from the compu...

Page 120: ...cables otherwise problems may result Do not use cut or damaged connection cables Always switch the power off before connecting your computer to peripheral equipment otherwise damage may occur to the integrated circuits in your computer Your computer keyboard and mouse consist of high precision electronic parts Do not drop them or bump them against other objects Your Sony computer does not work wit...

Page 121: ...nterference causing your wireless device to stop working properly The hard disk drive Do not place the computer in a location that is subject to vibration or shock Do not move the computer during operation Do not subject the computer to sudden changes in temperature Do not turn off the power while the computer is accessing the hard disk drive Optical mouse An optical mouse requires an ideal surfac...

Page 122: ...thy period of time The image disappears after a period of time 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 Do not leave the LCD in direct sunlight as this may damage the screen Use caution when using the computer near a window Do not exert pressure on the LCD or scratch the surface as this may cau...

Page 123: ...y Service Center or Factory Service Center For the Sony Service Center nearest you visit the Sony online support Web site at http www sony com pcsupport Do not handle damaged or leaking lithium batteries The lithium battery may explode if mistreated Do not disassemble it or dispose of it in fire Replace the battery with a Sony CR2032 lithium battery Using a type of battery other than a CR2032 may ...

Page 124: ...y suggests using only the MagicGate Memory Stick media to store and transfer any data created with SonicStage and OpenMG software VAIO computers may not support all of the high speed data transfer or access control features of the new Memory Stick PRO media You can use the new Memory Stick PRO media as you would use a standard Memory Stick media Visit the Sony online support Web site at http www s...

Page 125: ...ms or to locate support for your VAIO computer This section describes all available resources and offers suggestions on how to access this information for maximum results Immediate Help and Support Software Help and Support Resources for Additional Help and Support Page 125 ...

Page 126: ...ntral menu click VAIO Documentation 3 Click VAIO User Guide Specifications The online specifications sheet describes the hardware and software configuration of your VAIO computer To view the online specifications sheet 1 Connect to the Internet 2 Go to the Sony online support Web site at http www sony com pcsupport 3 Click the Manuals Specs Warranty button and follow the on screen instructions to ...

Page 127: ...y burn DVDs from a video device Create DVDs by capturing video content straight from a video device or by importing video from stored files You can also edit the video Create DVD photo albums and slide shows with picture files or by importing pictures from a digital still camera What s more you can easily give a professional look to your DVDs by adding chapter menus backgrounds and menu screens Yo...

Page 128: ...866 541 8233 Norton Internet Security Symantec Corp Web site http www symantec com techsupp PictureGear Studio Sony Electronics Inc PictureGear Studio is picture management software that can display photos from your hard drive or a Sony digital still camera The photos appear in a convenient light table format so that you can easily view the contents of an entire folder create your own photo albums...

Page 129: ...in WAV format Web site http www sony com pcsupport telephone 888 4 SONY PC 888 476 6972 hours 7 days a week 24 hours a day SpySubtract Intermute Inc Web site http www intermute com support html VAIO Control Center Sony Electronics Inc VAIO Control Center provides a central location that gathers resources to configure your VAIO personal computer and view your computer s configuration specifications...

Page 130: ...4 SONY PC 888 476 6972 hours 7 days a week 24 hours a day VAIO Zone Sony Electronics Inc VAIO Zone software delivers an effortless way to browse and enjoy picture music and video files on your computer all through an elegant next generation interface You can enjoy media content stored on other VAIO computers media servers on your network VAIO Zone software enables you to record video and photo sli...

Page 131: ... status review warranty information e mail your question or comments to the Sony Customer Information Services Center check pricing and availability for products accessories and parts as well as purchase online access the Sony Solutions Knowledge Base a database that contains answers to many frequently asked questions Sony Customer Information Services Center If other support options do not resolv...

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