Sony Ericsson Personal Computer VGN AR500 User Manual

User Guide  
Personal Computer  
VG N - A R 5 0 0 S e r i e s  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
3
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
4
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
5
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
6
Before Use  
Before Use  
Congratulations on your purchase of this Sony VAIO® computer, 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.  
!
External views illustrated in this manual may look slightly different from those of your computer.  
Documentation  
Your documentation includes printed information and user guides to read on your VAIO computer.  
Printed Documentation  
Welcome mat — Contains an overview of connections, set-up information, etc.  
Safety Information — Contains safety guidelines and owner information.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
7
Before Use  
Non-printed Documentation  
User Guide (this manual) — Contains features of your computer. It also includes information about the software programs  
included with your computer, as well as information on solving common problems.  
Specifications — The online Specifications describe the hardware and software configuration of your VAIO computer.  
To view the online Specifications:  
1
2
Connect to the Internet.  
Go to the Sony online support Web site at the following URLs:  
http://esupport.sony.com/EN/VAIO/ for customers in USA  
http://www.sony.ca/support for customers in Canada  
http://esupport.sony.com/ES/VAIO/ for customers in Spanish speaking Latin American countries or areas  
http://esupport.sony.com/ES/VAIO/BR/ for customers in Brazil  
VAIO Recovery Center User Guide — Provides information about restoring individual software programs, software  
drivers, and drive partition(s) or your entire hard disk drive to the original factory installed settings.  
To access this on-screen guide:  
1
2
3
Click Start  
and Help and Support.  
Click Manuals & Specifications.  
Click VAIO Recovery Center User Guide.  
RAID Guide (Selected models only) — Provides information about using RAID systems.  
To access this on-screen guide:  
1
2
3
Click Start and Help and Support.  
Click Manuals & Specifications.  
Click RAID Guide.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
8
Before Use  
Media Center User Guide (Selected models only) — Provides information about using Windows Media Center.  
To access this on-screen guide:  
1
2
3
Click Start and Help and Support.  
Click Manuals & Specifications.  
Click Media Center User Guide.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
9
Before Use  
Help and Support  
Help and Support is easy to access and provides a single location for information and technical assistance for your VAIO  
computer. Choose from the following categories to find the answers you need.  
To access Help and Support, click Start and Help and Support.  
Manuals & Specifications  
Here you will find the on-screen User Guide, warranty information, other VAIO documents, and system and software  
information for your computer.  
VAIO Support  
Access interactive help in the form of VAIO tutorials, an escalation page containing support and contact information, and  
various links to VAIO online support Web sites.  
Backup & Recovery  
Find information on how to back up and restore your operating system, system software, and your personal data.  
Wireless & Network  
Learn about wireless connections including Bluetooth Wireless technology and Wireless LAN. Run utilities that include  
VAIO Media Setup and Windows Network and Sharing, and access to wireless tutorials.  
Security  
Keep your data safe and your computer running efficiently with updates and maintenance programs from Microsoft and  
Sony.  
VAIO Sites  
Contains links to other Internet sites you might find interesting and useful.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
10  
Before Use  
Ergonomic Considerations  
You will be using your computer as a portable device in a variety of environments. Whenever possible, you should attempt  
to take account of the following ergonomic considerations for both stationary and portable environments:  
Position of your computer – Place the computer directly in front of you (1). Keep 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 flat on the  
floor. A footrest may make you more comfortable. Sit in a relaxed, upright posture and avoid slouching forward or leaning  
far backwards.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
11  
Before Use  
Viewing angle of the computer's display – Use the display's tilting feature to find the best position. You can reduce eye  
strain and muscle fatigue by adjusting the tilt of the display to the proper position. Adjust the brightness setting of the  
display as well.  
Lighting – Choose a location where windows and lights do not create glare and reflection on the display. Use indirect  
lighting to avoid bright spots on the display. Proper lighting adds to your comfort and work effectiveness.  
Positioning an external display – When using an external display, set the display at a comfortable viewing distance.  
Make sure the display screen is at eye level or slightly lower when you are sitting in front of the monitor.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
12  
Getting Started  
Getting Started  
This section describes how to get started using your VAIO computer.  
!
Before starting your computer for the first time, do not connect any other hardware that did not originally come with your computer. Be sure to start  
up your computer with only the supplied accessories connected and set up your system. Upon completion, connect one device (for example, a printer,  
an external hard disk drive, a scanner, and so on) at a time, following the manufacturers' instructions.  
Locating Controls and Ports (page 13)  
About the Indicator Lights (page 20)  
Connecting a Power Source (page 22)  
Using the Battery Pack (page 23)  
Shutting Down Your Computer Safely (page 27)  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
13  
Getting Started  
Locating Controls and Ports  
Take a moment to identify the controls and ports shown on the following pages.  
!
The appearance of your computer may be different from those illustrated in this manual due to variations in specifications. It may also vary depending  
on the country or area of your residency.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
14  
Getting Started  
Front  
C LCD screen (page 131)  
D Keyboard (page 29)  
E Built-in speakers (stereo)  
F SONY logo lamp (page 21)  
G Touch pad (page 30)  
H Power indicator (page 20)  
I Battery indicator (page 20)  
J Hard disk drive indicator (page 20)  
K Memory Stick PRO/Duo media indicator (page 20)  
L LCD screen lid LOCK/RELEASE switch  
Be sure to slide this switch to the LOCK position before moving  
your computer.  
M Built-in microphone (monaural)  
N SD memory card indicator (page 20)  
*1  
O Memory Stick PRO/Duo media slot (page 69)  
P SD memory card slot (page 74)  
Q WIRELESS switch (page 78)  
R WLAN (Wireless LAN) indicator (page 20)  
*2  
S Bluetooth indicator (page 20)  
*1  
Your computer supports Memory Stick PRO media and Memory Stick Duo  
media with high speed and high capacity capabilities.  
A Built-in MOTION EYE camera (page 33)  
B Built-in MOTION EYE camera indicator (page 20)  
*2  
On selected models only.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
15  
Getting Started  
A Num lock indicator (page 20)  
B Caps lock indicator (page 20)  
C Scroll lock indicator (page 20)  
D S1/S2 buttons (page 31)  
E VOLUME buttons (page 31)  
F Disc drive eject button (page 34)  
G Muting button (page 31)  
H Power button  
I Power indicator (page 20)  
*
J CHANNEL buttons (page 31)  
*
K TV REC button (page 31)  
L Play/Pause button (page 31)  
M Stop button (page 31)  
N Previous track button (page 31)  
O Next track button (page 31)  
P AV MODE button (page 31)  
*
On selected models only.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
16  
Getting Started  
Back  
*1  
A VHF/UHF port (page 43)  
B Air vent  
C Security slot  
D Battery connector (page 23)  
*2  
E Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) port (page 105)  
F DC IN port (page 22)  
*1  
On selected models only.  
*2  
Supports high-/full-/low- speeds.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
17  
Getting Started  
Right  
*1  
A Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) ports (page 105)  
B PC Card release button (page 63)  
C PC Card slot (page 61)  
D ExpressCard module release button (page 67)  
E Universal ExpressCard slot (page 65)  
F i.LINK (IEEE 1394) S400 port (page 109)  
*2 *3  
G AV In jack  
*2 *3 *4  
H S VIDEO INPUT port  
*4  
I S VIDEO OUTPUT port (page 98)  
J HDMI port (page 98)  
K Monitor (VGA) port (page 96)  
L Network (Ethernet) port (page 111)  
M Modem port (page 77)  
*1  
Support high-/full-/low- speeds.  
*2  
On selected models only.  
*3  
Parallel use of the AV In jack and the S VIDEO INPUT port will direct video  
signals to the S VIDEO INPUT port.  
*4  
Referred to as the S VIDEO IN port and the S VIDEO OUT port hereinafter.  
!
HDMI, the HDMI logo and High-Definition Multimedia Interface are trademarks or  
registered trademarks of HDMI Licensing LLC.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
18  
Getting Started  
Left  
A OPTICAL OUT port  
(Output Sampling Rate: 44.1 KHz/48.0 KHz/96.0 KHz)  
Connect an S/PDIF device such as digital headphones or an AV  
amplifier.  
B Microphone jack (page 104)  
C Headphones jack (page 94)  
D Optical disc drive (page 34)  
E Substitute drive eject button (page 34)/  
Optical disc drive indicator (page 20)  
F Manual eject hole (page 166)  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
19  
Getting Started  
Bottom  
A Air vents  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
20  
Getting Started  
About the Indicator Lights  
Your computer is equipped with the following indicator lights.  
Indicator  
Functions  
Power 1  
Illuminates when the power of the computer is on, blinks when the computer is in Sleep mode, and turns off  
when the computer is in Hibernate mode or off.  
Battery e  
Illuminates when the computer is using battery power, blinks when the battery pack is running out of power, and  
double-blinks when the battery pack is charging.  
Illuminates when data is read from or written to the Memory Stick media in the Memory Stick Duo/PRO Duo  
media slot or in the Memory Stick PRO/Duo media slot. (Do not enter Sleep mode or turn off the computer when  
this indicator is on.) When the indicator is off, the Memory Stick media is not being used.  
Memory Stick PRO/Duo media  
SONY logo  
Illuminates when the computer is turned on.  
Built-in MOTION EYE camera  
SD memory card  
Illuminates while the built-in MOTION EYE camera is in use.  
Illuminates when data is read from or written to the media in the SD memory card slot. (Do not enter Sleep mode  
or turn off the computer when this indicator is on.) When the indicator is off, the memory card is not being used.  
Optical disc drive  
Illuminates when data is read from or written to the optical disc media. When the indicator is off, the optical disc  
media is not being used.  
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.  
Hard disk drive  
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.  
Press the Caps Lock key to type letters in uppercase. Letters appear in lowercase if you press the Shift key  
while the indicator is on. Press the key a second time to turn off the indicator. Normal typing resumes when the  
Caps lock indicator is off.  
Caps lock  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
21  
Getting Started  
Indicator  
Functions  
Press the Scr Lk key to change how you scroll the display. Normal scrolling resumes when the Scroll lock  
indicator is off. The Scr Lk key functions differently depending on the program you are using and does not work  
with all programs.  
Scroll lock  
Illuminates when the WIRELESS switch is set to ON and Bluetooth technology is enabled.  
*
Bluetooth technology  
Wireless LAN  
Illuminates when the wireless LAN functionality is enabled.  
*
On selected models only.  
Changing the default SONY logo lamp activity  
The SONY logo lamp illuminates when you turn on your computer. You can change this default activity of the lamp to make  
it stay unlit by following these steps:  
1
Click Start, All Programs, and VAIO Central.  
The VAIO Central window appears.  
2
3
4
Click the Categories tab.  
Double-click Display and Logo Lamp Control.  
Follow the on-screen instructions.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
22  
Getting Started  
Connecting a Power Source  
You can use either an AC adapter or a rechargeable battery pack as a power source for your computer.  
Using the AC Adapter  
Use your computer only with the supplied AC adapter.  
To use the AC adapter  
1
2
3
Plug one end of the power cord (1) into the AC adapter (3).  
Plug the other end of the power cord into an AC outlet (2).  
Plug the cable attached to the AC adapter (3) into the DC IN port (4) on the computer.  
!
The shape of the DC In plug varies depending on the AC adapter.  
To disconnect your computer completely from AC power, unplug the AC adapter.  
Make sure that the AC outlet is easily accessible.  
If you do not use your computer for a long period of time, place the computer into Hibernate mode. See Using Hibernate Mode (page 120). This power  
saving mode saves the time of shutting down or resuming.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
23  
Getting Started  
Using the Battery Pack  
The battery pack supplied with your computer is not fully charged at the time of purchase.  
Installing the Battery Pack  
To install the battery pack  
1
2
Turn off the computer and close the LCD screen lid.  
Slide the battery lock switch (1) inward.  
3
4
Slide the battery pack into the battery compartment until it clicks into place.  
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.  
!
This computer is designed to operate only with genuine Sony batteries.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
       
24  
Getting Started  
Charging the Battery Pack  
The battery pack supplied with your computer is not fully charged at the time of purchase.  
To charge the battery pack  
1
2
Install the battery pack.  
Connect the AC adapter to the computer.  
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.  
The battery pack is running out of power.  
The battery pack is charging.  
The computer is using AC power.  
Blinks  
Double blinks  
Off  
!
Charge the battery pack as described in this manual from your first battery charge.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
25  
Getting Started  
When the battery pack is running out of power, both the battery and power indicator lights blink.  
Keep the battery pack in your computer while it is directly connected to AC power. The battery pack continues to charge while you are using the  
computer.  
If the battery level falls below 10%, you should either attach the AC adapter to recharge the battery pack or shut down your computer and install a fully  
charged battery pack.  
The battery pack supplied with your computer is a lithium ion battery pack and can be recharged any time. Charging a partially discharged battery pack  
does not affect 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 using battery power, you should save your data frequently and manually activate a power management mode, such as Sleep or Hibernate.  
If the battery pack wears out when the computer enters Sleep mode, you will lose any unsaved data. Going back to the previous work state is impossible.  
To avoid loss of data, you should save your data frequently.  
When your computer is directly connected to AC power and has a battery pack installed, it uses power from the AC outlet.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
26  
Getting Started  
Removing the Battery Pack  
!
You may lose data if you remove the battery pack while your computer is on 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
2
Turn off the computer and close the LCD screen lid.  
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.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
27  
Getting Started  
Shutting Down Your Computer Safely  
To avoid losing unsaved data, be sure to shut down your computer properly, as described below.  
To shut down your computer  
1
Turn off any peripherals connected to the computer.  
2
3
Click Start, the arrow next to the Lock button, and Shut Down.  
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.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
28  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
This section describes how to get the most out of using your VAIO computer.  
Using the Keyboard (page 29)  
Using the Touch Pad (page 30)  
Using Special-function Buttons (page 31)  
Using the Built-in MOTION EYE Camera (page 33)  
Using the Optical Disc Drive (page 34)  
Using the TV Function (page 43)  
Using PC Cards (page 61)  
Using the ExpressCard Module (page 64)  
Using the Memory Stick Media (page 68)  
Using Other Memory Cards (page 74)  
Using the Internet (page 77)  
Using Wireless LAN (WLAN) (page 78)  
Using the Bluetooth Functionality (page 85)  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
29  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Using the Keyboard  
Your keyboard is very similar to a desktop computer keyboard, but has additional keys that perform model-specific tasks.  
Combinations and Functions with the Fn Key  
Some keyboard functions can be used only after the operating system finished launching.  
Combinations/Feature  
Functions  
Fn + 8 (F5/F6): brightness control  
Adjusts the LCD brightness of your computer screen.  
To increase lightness intensity, press Fn+F6 and then M or ,, or keep pressing Fn+F6.  
To decrease lightness intensity, press Fn+F5 and then m or <, or keep pressing Fn+F5.  
Toggles among your computer screen, an external display, and simultaneous output to both.  
Changes the screen resolution to magnify/restore your computer's screen view.  
Fn +  
/T (F7): display output  
Fn +  
(F10): zoom  
The magnified view is not as clear as the standard view, as it is implemented by applying a lower resolution  
to the computer screen with a higher resolution.  
This key combination may not work with graphic images as it magnifies the screen view by changing the  
resolution.  
The location and size of software windows may change when the screen view is magnified or the standard  
view is restored because pressing this key combination changes the resolution.  
When your computer's screen view is magnified, switching the view to the external display disables the  
function and restores the standard view.  
Provides for the lowest level of power consumption. When you execute this command, the  
states of the system and the peripheral devices are written to the hard disk drive and the system  
power is turned off. To return the system to its original state, use the power button to turn on the  
power.  
Fn +  
(F12): Hibernate  
For details on power management, see Using the Power Saving Modes (page 117).  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
       
30  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Using the Touch Pad  
You can point to, select, drag, and scroll objects on the screen using the touch pad.  
Action  
Point  
Description  
Slide your finger on the touch pad (1) to place the pointer (2) on an item or object.  
Press the left button (3) once.  
Click  
Double-click  
Right-click  
Drag  
Press the left button twice.  
Press the right button (4) once. In many applications, this action displays a shortcut menu.  
Slide your finger on the touch pad while pressing the left button.  
Scroll  
Slide your finger along the right edge of the touch pad to scroll vertically. Slide your finger along the bottom edge to scroll  
horizontally (the scroll function is available only with applications that support a touch pad scroll feature).  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
31  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Using Special-function Buttons  
Your computer is equipped with special buttons to help you use specific functions of the computer.  
Special-function button  
Functions  
Change TV channels up and down.  
*1  
CHANNEL buttons  
Starts TV recording.  
*1  
TV REC button  
™ *2  
Starts or pauses playback of a CD disc, DVD disc, or Blu-ray Disc  
the hard disk drive.  
media or a music/video file stored on  
Play/Pause button  
Stop button  
*2  
Stops playback of a CD disc, DVD disc, or Blu-ray Disc media or a music/video file stored on the hard disk  
*1  
drive; or TV recording .  
Plays the previous chapter/file during video playback or the previous song/file during audio playback.  
Plays the next chapter/file during video playback or the next song/file during audio playback.  
Previous track button  
Next track button  
AV MODE button  
Launches VAIO AV Mode Launcher for selecting the desired software.  
You can change the default software options in VAIO AV Mode Launcher. To do so, press and hold the AV  
MODE button to display the setup window.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
32  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Special-function button  
Functions  
The default button assignments are as follows:  
S1/S2 buttons  
The S1 button toggles the LCD image quality mode between Standard and Vivid on models with the LCD  
*1  
Screen Image Mode feature ; or displays the Logo Lamp Control window for specifying your preference  
for the on/off status of the SONY logo lamp on other models.  
The S2 button activates and deactivates the audio filtering feature of the SonicStage Mastering Studio  
software.  
You can change these button assignments on the window for changing the S button assignments. To display this window,  
press and hold either button or launch and navigate through VAIO Central.  
Decrease (-) and increase (+) the volume.  
VOLUME buttons  
Disc drive eject button  
Muting button  
Ejects the optical disc drive tray.  
If this button does not work, try the substitute drive eject button on the optical disc drive.  
Turns the volume on and off.  
*1  
On models with the TV tuner only.  
*2  
On models with the Blu-ray Disc drive only. Use the WinDVD BD software for playback.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
33  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Using the Built-in MOTION EYE Camera  
Your computer is equipped with a built-in MOTION EYE camera.  
The built-in MOTION EYE camera adds video functionality to instant messaging software and video editing software.  
Turning on the computer activates the built-in MOTION EYE camera, so the computer is ready for a video conference using  
such software.  
Note that launching or exiting your instant messaging or video editing software does not activate or deactivate the built-in  
MOTION EYE camera, respectively. Make sure that the camera is activated before using the software.  
The built-in MOTION EYE camera cannot be shared by more than one software application. If another software application is using the camera, exit the  
application before using the built-in MOTION EYE camera.  
When capturing an image in a dark place, click the VAIO Camera Utility icon on the taskbar and the Advanced Setting tab on the Properties window,  
and select the Low Light check box. It decreases the frame rate and slows down the shutter speed to allow the camera to capture more light.  
!
The viewer window may show some noises, for example horizontal streaks, if you view a rapid-moving object. This is normal and does not indicate a  
malfunction.  
You cannot operate the built-in MOTION EYE camera with the Microsoft Windows MovieMaker software.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
34  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Using the Optical Disc Drive  
Your computer is equipped with an optical disc drive.  
To insert a disc  
1
2
Turn on the computer.  
Press the drive eject button (1) to open the drive.  
The tray slides out.  
If the disc drive eject button does not work, try the substitute drive eject button on the optical disc drive.  
If power supply to the optical disc drive is disabled by VAIO Power Management, it will take a while to eject the drive tray. Note that the substitute drive  
eject button is disabled when the optical disc drive is not powered.  
When recovering your system, turn on your computer and press the substitute drive eject button on the optical disc drive. Insert your Recovery Disc  
into the optical disc drive, turn off the computer, and then turn on the computer again to start the recovery process.  
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.  
4
Close the tray by pushing it in gently.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
35  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
!
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.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
36  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Reading and Writing Optical Discs  
Your computer plays and records CDs, DVDs, or Blu-ray Discs, 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.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
37  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
PR: playable and recordable  
P: playable but not recordable  
–: not playable or recordable  
*9  
CD-  
ROM  
Video  
CD  
Music CD  
CD-R/  
RW  
DVD-  
ROM  
DVD-  
Video  
BD-  
ROM  
DVD-R/ DVD+R/ DVD+R DVD-R DVD-  
BD-R /  
CD  
Extra  
RW  
RW  
DL  
DL  
RAM  
*10  
RE  
*1 *2  
*5  
*6  
*3 *4  
DVD RW/  
R DL/RAM  
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
PR  
PR  
P
P
P
P
P
PR  
PR  
P
PR  
PR  
PR  
CD-RW/  
DVD-ROM  
P
P
P
P
DVD-ROM  
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
*8  
*1 *2  
*5  
*6  
*3 *4  
*7  
Blu-ray Disc  
P
PR  
PR  
PR  
PR  
PR  
PR  
PR  
*1  
Supports writing data to DVD-R discs compliant with DVD-R for General Version 2.0/2.1.  
Supports writing data to DVD-RW discs compliant with DVD-RW Version 1.1/1.2.  
*2  
*3  
*4  
The DVD RW/RAM disc drive on your computer does not support the DVD-RAM cartridge. Use non-cartridge discs or discs with removable cartridge.  
Writing data to single-sided DVD-RAM discs (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  
*6  
*7  
Writing data to DVD+R DL (Double Layer) discs is available only on discs supporting DVD+R DL (Double Layer) recording.  
Writing data to DVD-R DL (Dual Layer) discs is available only on discs supporting DVD-R DL (Dual Layer) recording.  
Supports writing data to BD-R Version 1.1 discs (single-layer discs with the capacity of 25 GB, dual-layer discs with the capacity of 50 GB) and BD-RE Version 2.1  
discs (single-layer discs with the capacity of 25 GB, dual-layer discs with the capacity of 50 GB). The Blu-ray Disc drive on your computer does not support BD-RE  
Version 1.0 discs and Blu-ray cartridge discs.  
*8  
Writing data to Ultra Speed CD-RW discs is not supported on models with the Blu-ray Disc drive.  
BD-R stands for Blu-ray Disc-Recordable in Version 1.1 format.  
*9  
*10  
BD-RE stands for Blu-ray Disc-Rewritable in Version 2.1 format.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
38  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
!
This product is designed to playback discs that conform to the Compact Disc Digital Audio standard specifications (CD Standard). A DualDisc is a two  
sided disc product which mates DVD recorded material on one side with digital audio material on the other side. Be aware that the audio side (non-DVD  
side) of a DualDisc may not play on this product because it does not conform to the CD Standard.  
Due to the multiple formats of discs now available, when buying pre-recorded or blank discs for use with a VAIO computer, be sure to read the notices  
on the disc packaging carefully to check both playback and recording compatibility with your computer's optical disc drives. Sony does NOT guarantee  
the compatibility of VAIO CD drives with discs that are not compliant with the official "CD" format standard (or "DVD" standard in relation to DVD drives,  
or "Blu-ray Disc" standard in relation to Blu-ray Disc drives). USING NON-COMPLIANT DISCS CAN CAUSE FATAL DAMAGE TO YOUR VAIO PC OR  
CREATE SOFTWARE CONFLICTS AND CAUSE SYSTEM HANGING.  
For inquiries about disc formats, contact the individual publisher of the pre-recorded disc or the manufacturer of the recordable disc.  
8cm disc writing is not supported.  
!
To play copyright protected Blu-ray Discs continually, you need to update the AACS key. Note that the AACS key update requires Internet access.  
As with other optical media devices, circumstances may limit compatibility or prevent Blu-ray Disc playback. VAIO computers may not support movie  
playback on packaged media recorded in AVC or VC1 formats at high bit rates.  
Region settings are required for Movies and BD-ROM contents. If the region setting and the region of the disc do not match, playback is not possible.  
Unless your external display is compliant with the High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP) standard, you cannot play or view the contents  
of copyright protected Blu-ray Discs.  
Some contents may restrict video output to be standard definition or prohibit analog video output at all. It is strongly recommended that digital HDCP-  
compliant environment be implemented for optimum compatibility and viewing quality.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
39  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Notes on writing data to a disc  
Use only Sony recommended software, which is preinstalled on your computer, to write data to a disc.  
Other software programs may not be fully compatible and errors may result.  
To make data on a disc readable on the optical disc drive, you need to close the session before you eject it. To complete  
this process, follow the instructions included with your software.  
Only use circular discs. Do not use discs in any other shape (star, heart, card, etc.), as this may damage the optical disc  
drive.  
Do not strike or shake your computer while writing data to a disc.  
Deactivate the screen saver and exit anti-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.  
When using your software application to burn discs, make sure you exit and close all other applications.  
Do not switch to power saving modes while using the preinstalled software or any disc burning software.  
Connect and use the AC adapter to power your computer or make sure your battery pack is at least 50 percent charged.  
Make sure you use the same disc burning software to add data to a used disc. Use of different disc burning software for  
additional data burning may cause a failure. For example, if you have a disc with data that you burned with the Roxio  
Easy Media Creator software, use the Roxio Easy Media Creator software to add some data to the same disc.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
40  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Notes on playing discs  
To achieve optimum performance when playing discs, you should follow these recommendations.  
Some CD players and computer's optical disc drives may not be able to play audio CDs created with the CD-R or CD-RW  
disc media.  
Some DVD players and computer's optical disc drives may not be able to play DVDs created with the DVD+R DL, DVD-  
R DL, DVD+R, DVD+RW, DVD-R, DVD-RW, or DVD-RAM disc media.  
Do not use memory-resident utility software to speed up disc access when playing a disc. This may cause your computer  
to malfunction.  
Do not switch to 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. If the DVD is labeled "all," this means that you can play this DVD in most regions of the world. If the region code of  
your residence area is different from the label on the DVD disc or on the packaging, you cannot play the disc on your  
computer.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
41  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Playing CDs  
To play an audio CD  
1
2
Insert a disc into the optical disc drive.  
If nothing appears on the desktop, then click Start, All Programs, and the desired CD software to play the CD.  
If the Audio CD window 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
3
Open the folder that contains the file(s) you want to copy and drag them to the empty disc folder.  
Close the disc folder.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
42  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Playing DVDs  
To play a DVD  
1
2
3
Close all running software applications.  
Insert a DVD into the optical disc drive.  
If nothing appears on the desktop, then click Start, All Programs, and the desired DVD software to play the DVD.  
For instructions on how to use the software, see the help file on your DVD software.  
Copying Files to DVDs  
To copy files to a disc  
1
2
3
Connect the AC adapter to the computer.  
Insert a disc into the optical disc drive.  
If nothing appears on the desktop, then click Start, All Programs, and the desired DVD software to copy files to the disc.  
For instructions on how to use the software, see the help file on your DVD software.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
43  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Using the TV Function  
Your computer may have a TV tuner board installed or may be delivered with an external digital cable tuner to enhance your  
audio and visual experience in combination with Windows Media Center. See the online Specifications to find if your model  
is equipped with the TV tuner board or delivered with the digital cable tuner.  
Media Center provides you with a wide range of TV, DVD, and video viewing, as well as music recording and playback. This  
section describes how to set up your TV, set-top box, and other equipment. See the on-screen Media Center User Guide  
for more information on Media Center features.  
To access this on-screen guide  
1
2
3
Click Start and Help and Support.  
Click Manuals & Specifications.  
Click Media Center User Guide.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
44  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Setting Up TV Connections  
!
The following connections may not be available depending on the country or area of your residency.  
The best method of connecting your computer system, TV monitor or display, and cable service access, depends on the type  
of cable connection available in your home.  
TV signal reception strength will vary widely depending on service availability in your area as well as the type of connection  
available.  
One primary cable to connect a computer with the VHF/UHF port to a TV cable or antenna is the TV coaxial cable (1) (supplied  
with selected models only). One end connects to the VHF/UHF port, and the other end connects to the cable service access  
or antenna.  
If your computer is not equipped with the VHF/UHF port and is delivered with an external digital cable tuner, see the manual  
that came with the tuner for the detailed instructions on cable connection. Otherwise, proceed with the following.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
45  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Connecting to standard cable access (CATV)  
To connect in CATV mode (Option 1)  
1
2
Connect one end of a TV coaxial cable (1) to your cable service access (wall outlet) (2).  
Connect the other end to the VHF/UHF port (3) on the computer.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
46  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
To connect in CATV mode (Option 2)  
1
Connect the two metal hooks on a 75-ohm/300-ohm RCA transformer cable (1) (not supplied) to the screw-type grips at  
your cable service access (wall outlet) (2).  
2
Connect one end of a TV coaxial cable (3) to the transformer end of the RCA transformer cable (1). Connect the other  
end to the VHF/UHF port (4) on the computer.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
47  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Connecting to a standard antenna  
You can connect your computer to an indoor/outdoor antenna system, using Option 1 or Option 2 from the previous section,  
Connecting to standard cable access (CATV) (page 45). Depending on the type of antenna system in your home, your  
connection may require a VHF/UHF RF combiner/transformer (not supplied) to connect the computer and the indoor/outdoor  
antenna system.  
If you are connecting to an indoor/outdoor antenna, you may need to reorient the antenna for best reception. Move the antenna cable away from other  
power sources or connectors to reduce reception interference.  
To connect in land-based (terrestrial) broadcasting mode (Option 1)  
1
Connect one end of a TV coaxial cable (1) (not supplied) to your antenna outlet (2). Connect the other end to a VHF/UHF  
RF combiner/transformer (3) (not supplied).  
2
3
Connect a coaxial cable feed connector (4) (not supplied) to the VHF/UHF RF combiner/transformer (3).  
Connect one end of another TV coaxial cable (5) to the feed connector (4). Connect the other end to the VHF/UHF port  
(6) on the computer.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
48  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
To connect in land-based (terrestrial) broadcasting mode (Option 2)  
1
Connect one end of a 300-ohm twin lead cable (1) (not supplied) to the screw-type grips at your antenna outlet (2).  
Connect the other end to the grips on a VHF/UHF RF combiner/transformer (3) (not supplied).  
2
3
Connect a coaxial cable feed connector (4) (not supplied) to the VHF/UHF RF combiner/transformer (3).  
Connect one end of a TV coaxial cable (5) to the feed connector (4). Connect the other end to the VHF/UHF port (6) on  
the computer.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
49  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Connecting with a cable or satellite set-top box (STB)  
You can connect your computer to cable service access that uses a set-top box (cable or satellite). When using the set-top  
box (STB) setup, you can only change channels through the STB, using its controls or the supplied remote commander.  
When using the STB setup:  
A standard TV remote control cannot be used to change TV channels. You can use your TV remote control to set the TV  
to the channel-out number (channel 3, 4, etc.) or direct video input specified by your cable or satellite service provider.  
You may be able to use a universal remote control or commander to change TV channels, if the device is capable of  
controlling the STB.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
50  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
To connect in STB mode (Option 1)  
1
2
3
4
Connect one end of a TV coaxial cable (1) (not supplied) to your cable service access (wall outlet) (2). Connect the other  
end to the VHF/UHF IN port on the back panel of your set-top box (STB) (3).  
Connect a second TV coaxial cable (4) (not supplied) to the VHF/UHF OUT port on the set-top box (STB) (3). Connect  
the other end to the single-connection end of a splitter device (5) (not supplied).  
Connect a third TV coaxial cable (6) to the double-connection end of the splitter device (5). Connect the other end to the  
VHF/UHF port (7) on the computer.  
Connect a fourth TV coaxial cable (8) (not supplied) to the double-connection end of the splitter device (5). Connect the  
other end to the VHF/UHF port (9) on the rear of your TV monitor or display.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
51  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
To connect in STB mode (Option 2)  
1
2
3
Connect one end of a TV coaxial cable (1) to your cable service access (wall outlet) (2). Connect the other end to the  
VHF/UHF IN port on the back panel of your set-top box (STB) (3).  
Connect a second TV coaxial cable (4) (not supplied) to the VHF/UHF OUT port on the set-top box (STB) (3). Connect  
the other end to the VHF/UHF port (5) on the rear of your TV monitor or display.  
Connect one end of a stereo A/V cable with triple RCA plugs (6) (not supplied) to the Composite Audio Out (L/R) jacks  
(7) and the Video Out jack (8) on the back panel of your set-top box (STB) unit (3), matching the plug and jack colors.  
Connect the other end to the AV In jack (9) on the computer.  
4
If you prefer better video quality, connect one end of an S Video cable (10) (not supplied) to the S Video Out port (11) on  
the back panel of the set-top box (STB) (3). Connect the other end to the S VIDEO IN port (12) on the computer.  
Parallel use of the AV In jack (9) and the S VIDEO IN port (12) will direct video signals to the S VIDEO IN port.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
52  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
53  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Using the Remote Commander  
If your computer supports the TV function, then a remote commander is supplied with the computer for using Media Center  
features, including TV channel selection.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
54  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
A Pause X button  
Press to pause media playback. Press again to resume  
playback.  
Stop x button  
Press to stop media playback or TV recording session.  
Forward M button  
Press to fast-forward media at three speeds.  
Skip B? button  
Press to move media forward, for example, one audio track, one  
DVD chapter, and 30 seconds of recorded TV or video.  
Replay ?b button  
Press to move media backward, for example, one audio track,  
one DVD chapter, and seven seconds of TV or video.  
Rewind m button  
Press to move media backward at three speeds.  
Record z button  
Press to begin recording.  
Play N button  
Press to begin media playback.  
B Back button  
Press to return to the previous window.  
C Volume buttons  
Press to increase (+) or decrease (-) the volume.  
D Recorded TV button  
Press to view previously recorded TV programs (In My TV  
window).  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
55  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
E Guide button  
N Muting button  
Press to view the TV program guide for your area.  
Press to turn off the sound. Press again to restore the sound.  
F Alphanumeric buttons  
O Channel/Page buttons  
Press to select specific channels or enter text. (Press ENTER or  
OK to activate the channel selection.)  
Press to change or page up/down channels (no number input  
required).  
G CLEAR button  
P Live TV button  
Press to backspace and delete entered text.  
Press to view TV programs.  
H APPLICATION SELECT button  
Q DVD menu button  
Press to switch among open applications. This button works the  
same as the Alt+Tab keys.  
Press to open the main menu on a DVD.  
R ENTER button  
I APPLICATION CLOSE button  
Press to activate feature or action, such as channel selection or  
return to previous channel. (This button's actions are similar to  
using the OK button.)  
Press to close the active application window.  
J Standby button  
Press to place the computer into Sleep mode to reduce power  
consumption.  
K Start button  
Press to open the Media Center Start menu.  
L More button  
Press to view additional options that are available for Media  
Center features.  
M Directional arrow buttons  
Press the M, m, <, and , buttons to move the pointer on the  
screen.  
OK button  
Press to select the desired action or window option. When  
watching full-screen TV, press to return to the previous channel.  
Press again to switch between channels.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
56  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Before you use the remote commander  
Before using the remote commander, you need to insert the supplied AA manganese batteries and connect the remote sensor  
to enable communication between the computer and the remote commander.  
To insert batteries  
1
2
Turn the remote commander over.  
Slightly push down the dented area (1), slide the battery cover in the direction of the arrow, and remove the cover.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
57  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
3
Insert the supplied two AA batteries into the remote commander.  
4
Put the battery cover back on the remote commander and slide it in the reverse direction of the arrow illustrated above  
until the cover clicks into place.  
If the remote commander does not operate properly, you may need to replace the batteries. When the remote commander is not going to be used for  
an extended period of time, remove the batteries to avoid possible damage from battery leakage.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
58  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
To connect the remote sensor  
1
2
Choose the USB port (1)  
you prefer to use.  
Plug the remote sensor cable (2) into the USB port.  
3
Position the remote sensor (3) to enable unobstructed communication with the remote commander.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
59  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
If you are using a cable or satellite set-top box, you can attach the remote sensor control to the remote sensor, which enables  
you to control the set-top box with the remote commander.  
To connect the remote sensor control  
1
Plug the cable from the remote sensor control (1) into either jack (1 or 2) on the back of the remote sensor (2).  
2
Remove the adhesive tape cover from the bottom of the remote sensor control (1).  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
60  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
3
Attach the remote sensor control (1) onto the set-top box (3) near the infrared port (4).  
!
Do not cover the infrared port when attaching the remote sensor control.  
The remote sensor must be visible in a line-of-sight with the remote commander in order to function properly.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
61  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Using PC Cards  
PC Cards allow you to connect portable external devices to your computer.  
Inserting a PC Card  
!
Some PC Cards or their functions may not be compatible with your computer.  
You do not need to shut down your computer before inserting or removing a PC Card.  
To insert a PC Card  
1
2
3
4
5
Push the PC Card release button so that the release button pops out.  
Push the PC Card release button a second time so that the PC Card slot protector pops out.  
Gently take hold of the protector and pull it out of the slot.  
Insert the PC Card into the PC Card slot with the front label facing upward.  
Gently push the PC Card into the slot all the way to the end.  
The PC Card is automatically detected by your system.  
The Safely Remove Hardware icon appears on the taskbar.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
       
62  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
!
Insert the PC Card slot protector to protect against debris entering the slot when not using a PC Card. Before moving your computer, make sure to  
insert the PC Card slot protector into the slot.  
Some devices may not function properly if you continually switch to Normal mode from Sleep mode or Hibernate mode. For some PC Cards, if you  
alternate between Normal mode and Sleep or Hibernate mode while the card is inserted, you may find that a device connected to your system is not  
recognized. Restart your system to correct the problem. Restarting will restore the original state of your computer.  
While the card is inserted, your computer may not enter Hibernate mode. It may enter Sleep mode. We recommend that you remove the card before  
the computer enters Hibernate mode.  
Make sure you use the most recent software driver provided by the PC Card manufacturer.  
Do not force a PC Card into the slot. It may damage the connector pins. If you have difficulty inserting a PC Card, check that you are inserting the PC  
Card in the correct direction. See the manual that came with your PC Card for more information.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
63  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Removing a PC Card  
Follow the steps below to remove the PC Card while your computer is on. If it is not removed properly, your system may not  
work properly.  
To remove a PC Card  
To remove a PC Card when your computer is off, skip steps 1 to 7.  
1
Double-click the Safely Remove Hardware icon on the taskbar.  
The Safely Remove Hardware window appears.  
2
3
Select the hardware you want to unplug.  
Click Stop.  
The Stop a Hardware device window appears.  
4
5
Confirm that the device can be safely removed from the system.  
Click OK.  
A message appears stating it is now safe to remove the hardware device.  
6
7
8
9
Click OK.  
Click Close to close the Safely Remove Hardware window.  
Push the PC Card release button so that the release button pops out.  
Push the PC Card release button a second time so that the PC Card pops out.  
10 Gently take hold of the Card and pull it out of the slot.  
11 If the PC Card release button is still out, push it back in all the way to the end.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
64  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Using the ExpressCard Module  
Your computer is equipped with either a Universal ExpressCardslot* or an ExpressCard/34 slot* for transferring data  
among digital cameras, camcorders, music players, and other audio/video devices. The former can accommodate either an  
ExpressCard/34 (34 mm wide) or ExpressCard/54 (54 mm wide) module* as shown below; and the latter, an  
ExpressCard/34 module* only.  
ExpressCard/34 module*  
ExpressCard/54 module*  
Your computer is equipped with a Universal ExpressCardslot*.  
*
Referred to as the ExpressCard slot and the ExpressCard module in this manual.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
65  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Inserting an ExpressCard Module  
!
Your computer is delivered with a slot protector in the ExpressCard slot. Remove the slot protector before you use the slot.  
Use care when inserting or removing the ExpressCard module from the slot. Do not force it in or out of the slot.  
You do not need to shut down your computer before inserting or removing the ExpressCard module.  
To insert an ExpressCard module  
1
2
3
4
5
6
Locate the ExpressCard slot on the right of the computer.  
Push the ExpressCard module release button so that the release button pops out.  
Push the ExpressCard module release button a second time so that the ExpressCard slot protector pops out.  
Gently take hold of the ExpressCard slot protector and pull it out of the slot.  
Hold the ExpressCard module with the arrow facing upward and pointing toward the ExpressCard slot.  
Carefully slide the ExpressCard module into the slot until it clicks into place.  
Do not force it into the slot.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
66  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
!
Insert the ExpressCard slot protector to protect against debris entering the slot when not using an ExpressCard module. Before moving your computer,  
be sure to insert the ExpressCard slot protector into the slot.  
If the module or adapter does not go into the slot easily, remove it gently and verify you are inserting it in the proper direction.  
Make sure you use the most recent software driver provided by the ExpressCard module manufacturer.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
67  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Removing an ExpressCard Module  
Follow the steps below to remove the ExpressCard module while your computer is on. If it is not removed properly, your  
system may not work properly.  
To remove an ExpressCard module  
To remove an ExpressCard module when your computer is off, skip steps 1 to 7.  
1
Double-click the Safely Remove Hardware icon on the taskbar.  
The Safely Remove Hardware window appears.  
2
3
Select the hardware you want to unplug.  
Click Stop.  
The Stop a Hardware device window appears.  
4
5
Confirm that the device can be safely removed from the system.  
Click OK.  
A message appears stating it is now safe to remove the device.  
6
7
8
9
Click OK.  
Click Close to close the Safely Remove Hardware window.  
Push the ExpressCard module release button so that the release button pops out.  
Push the ExpressCard module release button a second time so that the ExpressCard module pops out.  
10 Gently take hold of the ExpressCard module and pull it out of the slot.  
11 If the ExpressCard module release button is still out, push it back in all the way to the end.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
68  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Using the Memory Stick Media  
Your computer supports the Memory Stick media. Memory Stick 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.  
For the latest information about the Memory Stick media, visit the Memory Stick Web site at http://www.memorystick.com/en/.  
!
Your computer has been tested and found compatible with the Sony branded Memory Stick media with capacity of up to 8 GB that are available as of  
January 2007. However, not all Memory Stick media that meet the same conditions 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 technology developed by Sony. Use a Memory Stick media with the MagicGate logo to use  
this feature.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
69  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Inserting a Memory Stick Media  
To insert a Memory Stick media  
1
2
3
Locate the Memory Stick PRO/Duo media slot.  
Hold the Memory Stick media with the arrow facing upward and pointing toward the Memory Stick PRO/Duo media slot.  
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 content of the Memory Stick media is  
displayed. If nothing appears on the desktop, click Start, Computer, and double-click the Memory Stick media icon.  
!
Be sure to hold the Memory Stick media with the arrow pointing in the correct direction as you insert it into the slot. To avoid damaging your computer  
or the Memory Stick media, do not force the Memory Stick media into the slot 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.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
70  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Your computer supports Memory Stick Duo media and is equipped with the Memory Stick PRO/Duo media slot that is compatible with both standard-  
and duo-size media. For more information on the Memory Stick Duo media, visit the Memory Stick Web site at http://www.memorystick.com/en/.  
You can insert a Memory Stick Duo media directly into the slot.  
To view the contents of the Memory Stick media  
1
2
Click Start and Computer to open the Computer window.  
Double-click the Memory Stick media icon to view the list of data files saved in the Memory Stick media.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
71  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
To format a Memory Stick media  
The Memory Stick media has been formatted in the factory default setting and is ready for use.  
If you want to reformat the media with your computer, follow these steps.  
!
Be sure to use the device that is designed to format the media and supports the Memory Stick media when formatting the media.  
Formatting the Memory Stick media erases the entire data on the media. Avoid accidental erasure of your valuable data.  
Do not remove the Memory Stick media from the slot while formatting the media. This could cause a malfunction.  
Carefully slide the Memory Stick media into the slot until it clicks into place.  
Click Start and Computer to open the Computer window.  
Right-click the Memory Stick media icon and select Format.  
Click Restore device defaults.  
1
2
3
4
!
The size of the allocation unit and file system may change.  
Do not select NTFS from the File system drop-down list as it may cause a malfunction.  
The formatting process will be completed more quickly if you select Quick Format in Format options.  
5
Click Start.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
72  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
6
At the confirmation prompt, click OK.  
The formatting process starts.  
!
It may take time to format the Memory Stick media depending on the media.  
7
8
Once completed, click OK.  
Click Close.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
73  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Removing a Memory Stick Media  
To remove a Memory Stick media  
1
2
Check that the Memory Stick PRO/Duo media indicator is off.  
Push the Memory Stick media in toward the computer.  
The Memory Stick media ejects.  
3
Pull the Memory Stick media out of the slot.  
!
Always remove the Memory Stick media gently, or it may pop out unexpectedly.  
Do not remove the Memory Stick media while the Memory Stick PRO/Duo media indicator is turned on. If you do, you may lose data. Large volumes  
of data may take time to load, so be sure the indicator is off before removing the Memory Stick media.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
74  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Using Other Memory Cards  
In addition to the Memory Stick PRO/Duo media slot, your computer is equipped with an SD memory card slot to  
accommodate other memory cards. You can use this slot to transfer data among digital cameras, camcorders, music players,  
and other audio/video devices.  
Before You Use Memory Cards  
The SD memory card slot on your computer supports the following memory cards:  
MultiMediaCard (MMC)  
Secure Digital (SD)  
For the latest information on compatible memory cards, visit the Sony online support Web site regularly.  
!
Always insert the correct memory card into the SD memory card slot.  
SD memory cards with capacity of up to 2 GB and SD High Capacity (SDHC) memory cards with capacity of up to 4 GB have been tested and found  
compatible with your computer.  
Do not attempt to insert a memory card or memory card adapter of a different type into the slot. An incompatible memory card or memory card adapter  
may be difficult to remove from the slot and can cause damage to your computer.  
Use care when inserting or removing a memory card from the slot. Do not force the memory card in or out of the slot.  
The SD memory card slot on your computer does not support the copyright protection and high-speed data transfer features of the SD memory card.  
Your computer has been tested and found compatible only with major memory card media available as of January 2007. However, not all memory card  
media that meet the same conditions as the compatible media are guaranteed of compatibility.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
75  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Inserting a Memory Card  
To insert a memory card  
1
2
Locate the SD memory card slot.  
Hold 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.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
76  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Removing a Memory Card  
!
Do not remove a memory card while the SD memory card indicator light is on. The card or its data may become damaged.  
To remove a memory card  
1
2
3
Check that the SD memory card indicator light is off.  
Press the extended part of the memory card, causing it to extend out from the slot.  
When the card extends, carefully pull it out of the slot.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
77  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Using the Internet  
Setting Up a Dial-up Internet Connection  
Before you can connect to the Internet, you need to connect your computer to a telephone line with a telephone cable (not  
supplied). Once you have set up your telephone cable connection, you are ready to connect to the Internet.  
To connect a telephone cable  
1
2
Plug one end of the phone cable (1) into the modem port  
Plug the other end into the wall jack (2).  
on the computer.  
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 modem.  
If you connect a telephone cable coming through a splitter, the modem or connected device may not work properly.  
To set up a dial-up connection to the Internet  
1
2
Click Start and Control Panel  
Click Connect to the Internet under Network and Internet.  
The Connect to the Internet window appears.  
3
4
Click Dial-up.  
Follow the on-screen instructions.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
78  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Using Wireless LAN (WLAN)  
Using the Sony Wireless LAN (WLAN), all your digital devices with built-in WLAN functionality communicate freely with each  
other through a network. A WLAN is a network in which a user can connect to a Local Area Network (LAN) through a wireless  
(radio) connection. So there is no need anymore to pull cables or wires through walls and ceilings.  
The Sony WLAN supports all normal Ethernet activities, but with the added benefits of mobility and roaming. You can still  
access information, Internet/intranet and network resources, even in the middle of a meeting, or as you move from one place  
to another.  
You can communicate without an access point, which means that you can communicate between a limited number of  
computers (ad-hoc). Or you can communicate through an access point, which allows you to create a full infrastructure  
network (infrastructure).  
In some countries, using WLAN products may be restricted by the local regulations (e.g. limited number of channels). Therefore, before activating the  
WLAN functionality, read the Safety Information carefully.  
*
*
WLAN uses the IEEE 802.11a /b/g standard or the draft form of the IEEE 802.11n standard, which specifies the used technology. The standard includes  
the encryption methods: Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP), which is 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 utilizes the enhanced data encryption TKIP (Temporal Key Integrity Protocol) in addition to user  
authentication using 802.1X and EAP (Extensible Authentication Protocol). Data encryption protects the vulnerable wireless link between clients and  
access points. Besides that, there are other typical LAN security mechanisms to ensure privacy, such as: password protection, end-to-end encryption,  
virtual private networks, and authentication. WPA2, the second generation of WPA, provides stronger data protection and network access control and  
is also designed to secure all versions of 802.11 devices, including 802.11b, 802.11a, 802.11g, and 802.11n, multi-band and multi-mode. In addition,  
based on the ratified IEEE 802.11i standard, WPA2 provides government grade security by implementing the National Institute of Standards and  
Technology (NIST) FIPS 140-2 compliant AES encryption algorithm and 802.1X-based authentication. WPA2 is backward compatible with WPA.  
* See the online Specifications to see whether your model supports the IEEE 802.11a standard and/or the draft form of the IEEE 802.11n standard.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
79  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
IEEE 802.11b/g is a wireless LAN standard, using the 2.4 GHz bandwidth. The IEEE 802.11g standard provides high-speed communications, faster than  
the IEEE 802.11b standard.  
IEEE 802.11a is a wireless LAN standard, using the 5 GHz bandwidth, and provides high-speed communications of up to 54 Mbps.  
*
IEEE 802.11n is a wireless LAN standard, using the 2.4 or 5 GHz bandwidth, and provides high-speed communications of up to 300 Mbps .  
* Actual communication speed varies depending on your access point settings and so on.  
®
*
Your computer may employ the Intel Next-Gen Wireless-N technology compliant with the IEEE 802.11a/b/g standard and the draft form of the  
®
IEEE 802.11n standard. To connect the computer with the Intel Next-Gen Wireless-N technology to an access point using the draft form of the  
®
®
IEEE 802.11n standard, the access point that supports the "Connect with Intel Centrino " program is required.  
* Employed only on models that support the draft form of the IEEE 802.11n standard.  
Wireless LAN devices using the 2.4 GHz bandwidth and the ones using the 5 GHz bandwidth cannot communicate with each other because the  
frequencies are different.  
The 2.4 GHz bandwidth used by wireless LAN compatible devices 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 obstacles between such devices, the device  
configuration, the radio conditions, and the software in use. In addition, communications may be cut off depending on the radio conditions.  
The communication range varies depending on the actual distance between communication devices, existence of obstacles between such devices, the  
radio conditions, the ambient environment that includes existence of walls and materials of such walls, and the software in use.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
80  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Deploying IEEE 802.11b and IEEE 802.11g products on the same wireless network may reduce the communication speed due to radio interference.  
Taking this into consideration, the IEEE 802.11g products are designed to reduce the communication speed to ensure communications with  
IEEE 802.11b products. When the communication speed is not as fast as expected, changing the wireless channel on the access point may increase  
the communication speed.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
81  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Communicating without an Access Point (Ad-hoc)  
An ad-hoc network is a network in which a local network is created only by the wireless devices themselves, with no other  
central controller or access point. Each device communicates directly with other devices in the network. You can set up an  
ad-hoc network easily at home.  
If the wireless connection is initiated by the VAIO computer, channel 11 will be selected.  
If the wireless connection is initiated by peer wireless LAN equipment, the wireless LAN communication will make use of  
the channel selected by the peer wireless LAN equipment.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
82  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
To communicate without an access point (ad-hoc)  
!
You cannot select the 5 GHz bandwidth, which is used for the IEEE 802.11a standard, on ad-hoc networks.  
The IEEE 802.11n standard, using the 2.4 or 5 GHz bandwidth, is not available on ad-hoc networks.  
1
2
Turn on the WIRELESS or WIRELESS LAN switch.  
The Wireless LAN indicator lights up.  
Double-click  
(
/
) on the taskbar to display the Wireless Device Switch window. Select your desired wireless  
option(s) and click OK.  
3
4
5
Click Start and Control Panel.  
Click View network status and tasks under Network and Internet.  
Click Set up a connection or network on the left pane.  
The Set up a connection or network window appears.  
6
7
Select an option to specify the ad-hoc network settings and click Next.  
Follow the on-screen instructions.  
See the online Specifications to see whether your model supports the Bluetooth functionality and/or the IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n standard.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
83  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Communicating with an Access Point (Infrastructure)  
An infrastructure network is a network that extends an existing wired local network to wireless devices by providing an access  
point (not supplied), for example the Sony Access Point. The access point bridges the wireless and wired LAN and acts as a  
central controller for the wireless LAN. The access point coordinates transmission and reception from multiple wireless  
devices within a specific range.  
The access point will select which channel to use on an infrastructure network.  
!
For details on how to select the channel that will be used by the access point, see the manual that came with your access point.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
84  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
To connect to a wireless network  
1
Make sure an access point is set up.  
See the manual that came with your access point for more information.  
2
Turn on the WIRELESS or WIRELESS LAN switch.  
The Wireless LAN indicator lights up.  
3
Double-click  
(
/
) on the taskbar to display the Wireless Device Switch window. Select your desired wireless  
option(s) and click OK.  
4
5
Right-click or on the taskbar and select Connect to a network.  
Select the desired access point and click Connect.  
See the online Specifications to see whether your model supports the Bluetooth functionality and/or the IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n standard.  
To disconnect from a wireless network  
Turn off the WIRELESS or WIRELESS LAN switch.  
!
Turning off the wireless LAN functionality while accessing remote documents, files, or resources may result in data loss.  
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.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
85  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Using the Bluetooth Functionality  
The Bluetooth functionality is available on selected models only. See the online Specifications to see whether your model  
supports the Bluetooth functionality.  
You can establish wireless communication between your computer and other Bluetooth devices such as another computer  
or a mobile phone. You can transfer data between these devices without cables and up to 33 feet (10 meters) range in open  
space.  
To connect to a Bluetooth device  
1
Turn on the WIRELESS switch.  
2
3
4
Double-click ) on the taskbar to display the Wireless Device Switch window.  
(
/
Select the Enable Bluetooth Device option.  
Click OK.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
86  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Notes on using the Bluetooth functionality  
The data transfer rate varies, depending on the following conditions:  
Obstacles, such as walls, located between devices  
Distance between devices  
Material used in walls  
Proximity to microwaves and cordless telephones  
Radio frequency interference and other environmental conditions  
Device configuration  
Type of software application  
Type of operating system  
Use of both wireless LAN and Bluetooth functionalities at the same time on your computer  
Size of file being exchanged  
Note that due to limitations of the Bluetooth standard, large files may occasionally be corrupted during continuous transfer  
due to electromagnetic interference from the environment.  
All Bluetooth devices must be certified to make sure that the applicable standard requirements are maintained. Even if  
standards are met, individual device performance, specifications, and operation procedures can vary. Data exchange may  
not be possible in all situations.  
As general characteristics of Bluetooth technology, video and audio may go out of synchronization if you play videos on  
your computer with audio output from the connected Bluetooth device.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
87  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
The 2.4 GHz band, with which Bluetooth devices or wireless LAN devices work, is used by various devices. Bluetooth  
devices use the technology to minimize the interference from other devices that use the same wave length. Simultaneous  
use of the Bluetooth functionality and wireless communication devices, however, may cause radio interference and result  
in poorer communication speeds and distances than the standard values.  
The Bluetooth functionality may not work depending on the third party devices or the software version used by third party  
companies.  
As general characteristics of Bluetooth technology, connecting multiple Bluetooth devices to your computer may cause  
bandwidth congestion, resulting in poor performance of the devices.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
88  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Bluetooth Security  
The Bluetooth wireless technology has an authentication function, which allows you to determine with whom you choose to  
communicate. With the authentication function, you can avoid any anonymous Bluetooth device to access your computer.  
The first time two Bluetooth devices communicate, a common passkey (a password required for authentication) should be  
determined for both devices to be registered. Once a device is registered, there is no need to re-enter the passkey.  
The passkey can be different each time, but must be the same at both ends.  
For certain devices, such as a mouse, no passkey can be entered.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
89  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Communicating with Another Bluetooth Device  
You can connect your computer to a Bluetooth device such as another computer, a mobile phone, a PDA, a headset, a  
mouse, or a digital camera without the use of any cables.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
90  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
To communicate with another Bluetooth device  
To communicate with another Bluetooth device, you need first to set up the Bluetooth functionality. For setting up and using  
the Bluetooth functionality, see the help file on the Bluetooth utility software.  
To see the help file  
1
Right-click the Bluetooth icon  
on the taskbar, and select Help from the menu.  
Stopping the Bluetooth Connection  
To stop the Bluetooth connection, turn off the WIRELESS switch. The Bluetooth indicator turns off.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
91  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
Using the Bluetooth Headset  
The Bluetooth headset (not supplied) will come in handy during a video conference over the Internet using instant messaging  
software. For details on using the Bluetooth headset, see the manual that came with your Bluetooth headset.  
To connect the headset with your computer  
1
2
Press and hold the headset power button for at least five seconds to turn on the Bluetooth headset.  
Press and hold the volume buttons for at least five seconds until the indicator light blinks in red and green.  
3
4
5
6
Right-click the Bluetooth icon  
The Bluetooth Settings window appears and Add New Connection Wizard automatically starts.  
on the taskbar and select Bluetooth Settings from the menu.  
If the Add New Connection Wizard window does not appear, click New Connection.  
The Add New Connection Wizard window appears.  
Select Express Mode (Recommended) and then click Next.  
The wizard searches for Bluetooth devices in range and lists available devices, if any.  
Select the device name for your Bluetooth headset and then click Next.  
The Bluetooth Manager-Bluetooth Security window appears when a connection is established.  
7
8
Enter "0000" for Bluetooth Passkey (PIN) and then click OK.  
Click Next.  
The headset icon appears in the Bluetooth Settings window.  
9
Right-click the icon and select Connect from the menu.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
92  
Using Your VAIO Computer  
To disconnect the headset from your computer  
1
Right-click the Bluetooth icon  
on the taskbar and select Bluetooth Settings from the menu.  
The Bluetooth Settings window appears.  
Right-click the headset icon and select Disconnect from the menu.  
Click Yes.  
2
3
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
93  
Using Peripheral Devices  
Using Peripheral Devices  
You can add functionality to your VAIO computer by using the various ports on the computer.  
Connecting External Speakers (page 94)  
Connecting an External Display (page 95)  
Selecting Display Modes (page 101)  
Using the Multiple Monitors Function (page 102)  
Connecting an External Microphone (page 104)  
Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) Device (page 105)  
Connecting a Printer (page 108)  
Connecting an i.LINK Device (page 109)  
Connecting to a Network (LAN) (page 111)  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
94  
Using Peripheral Devices  
Connecting External Speakers  
You can enhance the sound quality of your computer by connecting external speakers.  
To connect external speakers  
1
2
3
Plug the speaker cable (1) into the headphones jack (2) i.  
Plug the other end of the speaker cable to the external speaker (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.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
95  
Using Peripheral Devices  
Connecting an External Display  
You can connect an external display (not supplied) to your computer. For example, you can use the computer with a computer  
display or a projector.  
Connect the power cord after connecting all other cables.  
Connected external displays are used as secondary screens.  
On the Windows operating system, you can also use an external display to set up multiple monitors.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
96  
Using Peripheral Devices  
Connecting a Computer Display  
You can connect a computer display (monitor) to your computer.  
To connect a computer display  
1
2
If necessary, plug one end of the display's power cord (1) into your display, and the other end into an AC outlet.  
If you want to connect a VGA monitor, plug the display cable (2) (not supplied) into the monitor (VGA) port (3) a on the  
computer.  
3
If you want to connect a TFT/DVI monitor, use an HDMI cable (supplied with selected models only) and an HDMI to DVI-  
D adapter (supplied with selected models only) to connect the TFT/DVI monitor to the HDMI port on your computer.  
DVI-D stands for Digital Visual Interface - Digital. It is a type of DVI connector that supports only digital video signals (no analog video signals). It has  
24 pins.  
A DVI-I (Digital Visual Interface - Integrated) connector supports digital video and analog video signals. It has 29 pins.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
97  
Using Peripheral Devices  
Connecting a Multimedia Computer Display  
You can connect a multimedia computer display that includes built-in speakers and a microphone to your computer.  
To connect a multimedia computer display  
1
2
3
4
Plug the power cord of your multimedia computer display (1) into an AC outlet.  
Plug the display cable (2) (not supplied) into the monitor (VGA) port (3) a on the computer.  
Plug the speaker cable (4) into the headphones jack (5) i on the computer.  
Plug the microphone cable (6) into the microphone jack (7) m on the computer.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
98  
Using Peripheral Devices  
Connecting a TV  
You can connect a TV to your computer.  
To connect a TV to your computer  
1
2
3
4
5
Plug the power cord of your TV into an AC outlet.  
Plug one end of an S Video cable (not supplied) into the S VIDEO OUT port on the computer and the other end to the TV.  
Plug one end of an audio cable (not supplied) into the headphones jack on the computer and the other end to the TV.  
Switch the input channel of the TV to external input.  
Set up the TV configuration system.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
99  
Using Peripheral Devices  
If your TV is equipped with an HDMI port and the model, you can then use an HDMI cable (supplied with selected models  
only) to connect the TV to your computer.  
To connect an HDMI-compatible TV to your computer  
1
2
3
4
Plug the power cord of your TV into an AC outlet.  
Plug one end of an HDMI cable to the HDMI port on the computer and the other end to the TV.  
Switch the input channel of the TV to external input.  
Set up the TV configuration system.  
!
If your TV is equipped with an HDMI port and a DVI-D port, we recommend that you use the HDMI port.  
The HDMI cable carries both video and audio signals.  
If a device driver other than the one provided by Sony is used, the image will not be displayed and the audio will not be heard. Always use the device  
driver provided by Sony for updates.  
See the manual that came with your peripheral for more information on installation and use.  
You can connect the HDMI out to an AV amplifier and audio will be heard through the AV amplifier and then another HDMI cable can be connected from  
the AV amplifier to the TV for the display.  
If the display resolution of your computer is more than 1024 x 768 pixels, a part of the image cannot be displayed on your TV. If you want to display  
the full image, change the display resolution of the computer to 1024 x 768 pixels or lower.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
100  
Using Peripheral Devices  
Connecting a Projector  
You can connect a projector (for example, the Sony LCD projector) to your computer.  
To connect a projector  
1
2
3
4
Connect the power cord (1) of your projector into an AC outlet.  
Plug an RGB signal cable (2) (not supplied) into the monitor (VGA) port (3) a on the computer.  
Plug an audio cable (4) (not supplied) into the headphones jack (5) i on the computer.  
Plug the RGB signal cable and the audio cable into the jack and port on the projector (6).  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
101  
Using Peripheral Devices  
Selecting Display Modes  
You can select which display to be used as the primary monitor when an external display (desktop monitor, etc.) is connected  
to your computer.  
If you want to work on your computer screen and the external display at the same time, see Using the Multiple Monitors  
Function (page 102) for more information.  
To select a display  
1
2
3
4
5
6
Click Start and Control Panel.  
Click Additional Options.  
Click NVIDIA Control Panel.  
Click Display.  
Click Change Display Configuration.  
Follow the on-screen instructions to change the settings.  
You may not be able to display the same contents on your computer screen and the external display or projector at the same time, depending on the  
type of your external display or projector.  
Before turning on your computer, turn on the peripheral devices.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
102  
Using Peripheral Devices  
Using the Multiple Monitors Function  
The Multiple Monitors function allows you to distribute portions of your desktop across separate displays. For example, if you  
have an external display attached to the monitor (VGA) port, your computer screen and the external display can function as  
a single desktop.  
You can move the cursor from one display to the other. This allows you to 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 Normal mode.  
If you set different colors on each display, do not expand a single window across two displays; otherwise your software may not work properly.  
Set fewer colors or a lower resolution for each display.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
103  
Using Peripheral Devices  
To select the Multiple Monitors mode  
1
2
Click Start and Control Panel.  
Click Adjust screen resolution under Appearance and Personalization.  
The Display Settings window appears.  
3
4
Right-click the number 2 monitor and select Attached.  
Click OK.  
At the confirmation prompt, click Yes.  
You can also change one of the S button assignments to activate the Multiple Monitors mode with the corresponding S button. To change the S button  
assignments, press and hold any S button to display the window for changing the assignment. For details on the S buttons, see Using Special-function  
Buttons (page 31).  
Additionally, you can set the display colors and resolution for each display and customize the Multiple Monitors mode.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
104  
Using Peripheral Devices  
Connecting an External Microphone  
If you 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.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
105  
Using Peripheral Devices  
Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) Device  
To prevent your computer and/or USB devices from damage, observe the following:  
When 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
2
Choose the USB port (1)  
you prefer to use.  
Plug the USB mouse cable (2) into the USB port.  
You can now use your USB mouse (not supplied) (3).  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
106  
Using Peripheral Devices  
Connecting a USB Floppy Disk Drive  
You can purchase a USB floppy disk drive and connect it to your computer.  
To connect a USB floppy disk drive  
1
2
Choose the USB port (1)  
you prefer to use.  
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.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
107  
Using Peripheral Devices  
Disconnecting a USB floppy disk drive  
You can disconnect a USB floppy disk drive when your computer is on or off. Disconnecting the drive when the computer is  
in a power saving mode (Sleep or Hibernate) may cause the 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 8.  
1
2
Close all programs accessing the floppy disk drive.  
Double-click the Safely Remove Hardware icon on the taskbar.  
The Safely Remove Hardware window appears.  
3
4
Select the floppy disk drive you want to unplug.  
Click Stop.  
The Stop a Hardware device window appears.  
5
6
Confirm that the floppy disk drive can be safely removed from the system.  
Click OK.  
A message appears stating it is now safe to remove the hardware device.  
7
8
9
Click OK.  
Click Close to close the Safely Remove Hardware window.  
Disconnect the floppy disk drive from the computer.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
108  
Using Peripheral Devices  
Connecting a Printer  
You can connect a Windows-compatible printer to your computer to print documents.  
Connecting a Printer Using the USB Port  
You can connect a USB printer compatible with your version of Windows to the computer.  
To connect a printer using the USB port  
1
Plug the power cord (1) of your printer into an AC outlet.  
2
3
Choose the USB port (3) you prefer to use.  
Plug one end of a USB printer cable (2) (not supplied) into the USB port and the other end to your printer.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
109  
Using Peripheral Devices  
Connecting an i.LINK Device  
Notes on connecting i.LINK devices  
Your computer is equipped with an i.LINK port, which you can use to connect to an i.LINK device such as a digital video  
camcorder.  
The i.LINK port on your computer does not supply power to external devices generally powered by i.LINK ports.  
The i.LINK port supports transfer rates up to 400 Mbps; however, the actual transfer rate depends on the transfer rate of  
the external device.  
The optional i.LINK cables may not be available, depending on the country or area of your residency.  
An i.LINK connection with other compatible devices is not fully guaranteed.  
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 more information.  
Check the working conditions and operating system compatibility of i.LINK-compatible PC peripherals (for example, an  
HDD or a CD-RW drive) before you connect them to your computer.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
110  
Using Peripheral Devices  
Connecting a Digital Video Camcorder  
To connect a digital video camcorder  
Plug one end of an i.LINK cable (1) (not supplied) into the i.LINK port (2) on the computer 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.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
111  
Using Peripheral Devices  
Connecting to a Network (LAN)  
You can connect your computer to 1000BASE-T/100BASE-TX/10BASE-T-type networks with an Ethernet network cable.  
Connect one end of a network cable (not supplied) to the network (Ethernet) port on the computer and the other end to your  
network. For detailed settings and devices needed to connect to the network, 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 lines (multi-line business telephone)  
- Public telephone subscriber line  
- PBX (private branch exchange)  
Do not plug a telephone cable into the network port.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
112  
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 113)  
Setting Up Your Computer with VAIO Central (page 116)  
Using the Power Saving Modes (page 117)  
Managing Power with VAIO Power Management (page 122)  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
113  
Customizing Your VAIO Computer  
Setting the Password  
Use one of the BIOS functions to set the password.  
Once you have set the password, you will be prompted to enter the password after the VAIO logo appears to start your  
computer. The power-on password allows you to protect your computer from unauthorized access.  
Adding the Power-on Password  
The power-on password is provided to protect your computer from unauthorized access.  
!
Once you have set the power-on password, you cannot start your computer without entering the password. Make sure not to forget the password. Write  
down your password and keep it safe and private from other people.  
If you forget the power-on password and need assistance to reset it, a password reset fee will be charged, and your computer may need to be sent in  
for depot service for password reset.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
114  
Customizing Your VAIO Computer  
To add the power-on password  
1
2
Turn on the computer.  
Press the F2 key when the VAIO logo appears.  
The BIOS setup screen appears. If not, restart the computer and press the F2 key several times when the VAIO logo  
appears.  
3
4
5
Press the < or , key to select Security to display the Security tab, select Set Machine Password, and then press the  
Enter key.  
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.  
At the confirmation prompt, press the Enter key.  
The following is to configure your computer to prompt password entry when you turn it on or display the BIOS setup screen.  
6
7
Select Password when Power On under Security.  
Press the space bar to change the setting from Disabled to Enabled.  
Press the < or , key to select Exit, select Exit Setup, and then press the Enter key.  
At the confirmation prompt, press the Enter key.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
115  
Customizing Your VAIO Computer  
Changing/Removing the Power-on Password  
To change or remove the power-on password  
1
2
Turn on the computer.  
Press the F2 key when the VAIO logo appears.  
The BIOS setup screen appears. If not, restart the computer and press the F2 key several times when the VAIO logo  
appears.  
3
4
Enter the current password and press the Enter key.  
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  
key.  
When confirmation to save the changes is prompted, press the Enter key.  
6
Press the < or , key to select Exit, select Exit Setup, and then press the Enter key.  
At the confirmation prompt, press the Enter key.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
116  
Customizing Your VAIO Computer  
Setting Up Your Computer with VAIO Central  
The VAIO Central utility allows you to consult system information and to specify preferences for system behavior.  
To use VAIO Central  
1
Click Start, All Programs, and VAIO Central.  
The VAIO Central window appears.  
2
3
4
Click the Categories tab.  
Select the desired control item and change the settings.  
Once finished, click OK.  
The setting of the desired item has been changed.  
Some of the control items will not be visible if you open VAIO Central as a standard user.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
117  
Customizing Your VAIO Computer  
Using the Power Saving Modes  
When you use a battery pack as the power source for your computer, you can take advantage of the power management  
settings to conserve battery life. In addition to the normal operating mode, which allows you to turn off specific devices, your  
computer has two distinct power saving modes: Sleep and Hibernate. When using battery power, 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 percent, you should either attach 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 the computer when it is in use. The green power indicator light is on in this mode. To save power  
while not working, you can turn off a specific device such as the LCD screen or the hard disk drive.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
118  
Customizing Your VAIO Computer  
Using Sleep Mode  
Sleep mode turns off the LCD screen and places the storage device(s) and the CPU into a low power consumption mode.  
The umber power light flashes during this mode.  
!
If you do not use your computer for a long period of time while it is disconnected from AC power, place the computer into Hibernate mode or turn it off.  
To activate Sleep mode  
Click Start, 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 a remote commander is supplied with your computer, you can alternatively press the standby button on the remote commander to place the computer  
into Sleep mode.  
!
If the battery runs down while your computer is in Sleep mode, you will lose any unsaved data. Going back to the previous work state is impossible.  
To avoid loss of data, you should save your data frequently.  
To return to Normal mode  
Press any key.  
!
If you press and hold the power button for more than four seconds, your computer will turn off automatically. You will lose any unsaved data.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
119  
Customizing Your VAIO Computer  
If the computer is not used for a certain period of time, it will enter Sleep mode. To modify this, you can change the Sleep  
mode settings.  
To change the Sleep mode settings  
1
2
3
Right-click the power status icon on the taskbar and select Power Options.  
Click Change plan settings under the current power plan.  
Change the time to put the computer to sleep and click Save Changes.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
120  
Customizing Your VAIO Computer  
Using Hibernate Mode  
In Hibernate mode, the state of the system is saved on the hard disk drive and power is turned off. Even when the battery  
runs down, no data will be lost. The power indicator light is off in this mode.  
If you do not use your computer for a long period of time, place the computer into Hibernate mode. This power saving mode saves you the time of  
shutting down or 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 than Sleep mode to be activated.  
Hibernate mode uses less power than Sleep mode.  
!
Do not move your computer before its power indicator light turns off.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
121  
Customizing Your VAIO Computer  
To return to Normal mode  
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.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
122  
Customizing Your VAIO Computer  
Managing Power with VAIO Power Management  
Power management helps you set up power schemes for running on AC power or batteries to suit your requirements for  
power consumption.  
VAIO Power Management is a software application developed exclusively for VAIO computers. With this software  
application, you can enhance the Windows power management functions to ensure better operation of your computer and  
longer battery life. For more information on VAIO Power Management, see the help file on the VAIO Power Management  
software.  
Activating VAIO Power Management  
When you start the computer, a power status icon appears on the taskbar. This icon indicates what kind of power source you  
are using at that time, for example, AC power. Click this icon to display the window, showing your power status.  
VAIO Power Management functionalities are added to the Windows Power Options Properties.  
To activate VAIO Power Management  
1
2
3
Right-click the power status icon on the taskbar and select Power Options.  
Click Change plan settings under the current power plan.  
Click Change advanced power settings.  
The Power Options window appears.  
4
Select the VAIO Power Management tab.  
To restore the default settings  
1
On the VAIO Power Management tab, click Advanced.  
The VAIO Power Management window appears.  
2
Follow the on-screen instructions to change the settings.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
123  
Customizing Your VAIO Computer  
Activating VAIO Power Management Power Schemes  
VAIO Power Management provides several predefined power schemes. Each power scheme consists of a group of power  
management settings that are designed to meet specific power management needs, ranging from maximum power  
management to no power management.  
To activate a VAIO Power Management power scheme  
1
2
Right-click the power status icon on the taskbar and select Power Options.  
Select a power plan.  
The power scheme has been activated.  
If necessary, you can change advanced power settings. Follow these steps:  
Click Change plan settings under the current power plan.  
Click Change advanced power settings.  
3
4
5
Select the VAIO Power Management tab.  
You can change the items in the list.  
6
Click OK.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
124  
Upgrading Your VAIO Computer  
Upgrading Your VAIO Computer  
Your VAIO computer and memory modules use high precision components and electronic connectors technology. To avoid  
invalidation of the warranty during your 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.  
For assistance, contact an authorized Sony Service Center. To find the nearest center or agent, see Sony Support  
Information (page 190) or visit the Sony online support Web site.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
125  
Upgrading Your VAIO Computer  
Adding and Removing Memory  
If you want to expand the functionality of your computer, you can increase the memory by installing optional memory modules.  
Before you upgrade your computer's memory, read the notes and procedures in the following pages.  
Notes on adding/removing memory modules  
Be careful when changing memory. Improper installation of memory modules may cause damage to your system. This  
damage may void your manufacturer's warranty.  
Only use memory modules that are compatible with your computer. If a memory module is not detected by the computer  
or the Windows operating system becomes unstable, contact your sales dealer or the manufacturer of your memory  
module.  
Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can damage electronic components. Before touching a memory module, ensure the  
following:  
The 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 you remove any cover or panel from the computer. Failure to  
do so may result in personal injury or equipment damage.  
ESD can damage memory modules and other components. Install the memory module only at an ESD workstation.  
If such a station is not available, do not work in a carpeted area, and do not handle materials that produce or hold  
static electricity (cellophane wrappers, for example). Ground yourself by maintaining contact with an unpainted metal  
portion of the chassis while performing the procedure.  
Do not open the memory module package before you are ready to change the module. The package protects the  
module from ESD.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
126  
Upgrading Your VAIO Computer  
Use the special bag delivered with the memory module or wrap the module in aluminum foil to protect it from ESD.  
Introducing any liquids, foreign substances, or objects into the memory module slots or other internal components of your  
computer will result in damage to the computer and any repair costs will not be covered by the warranty.  
Do not place the memory module in a location subject to:  
Heat sources such as radiators or air ducts  
Direct sunlight  
Excessive dust  
Mechanical vibration or shock  
Strong magnets or speakers that are not magnetically shielded  
Ambient temperature of more than 95°F (35°C) or less than 41°F (5°C)  
High humidity  
Handle the memory module with care. To avoid injuries to your hands and fingers, do not touch the edges of the  
components and circuit boards inside your computer.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
127  
Upgrading Your VAIO Computer  
Removing and Installing a Memory Module  
To change or add a memory module  
1
2
3
4
Shut down the computer and disconnect all peripheral devices.  
Unplug the computer and remove the battery pack.  
Wait until the computer cools down.  
Unscrew the screw (indicated by the arrow below) on the bottom of the computer and remove the memory module  
compartment cover.  
5
6
Touch a metal object to discharge static electricity.  
Remove the currently 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).  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
128  
Upgrading Your VAIO Computer  
7
8
Remove the new memory module from its packaging.  
Slide the memory module into the memory module slot and push it in until it clicks into place.  
!
If you use only one memory module, make sure to insert it to the slot that is closer to the back of your computer.  
Do not touch any other components on the motherboard.  
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.  
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.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
129  
Upgrading Your VAIO Computer  
Viewing the Amount of Memory  
To view the amount of memory  
1
2
Turn on the computer.  
Click Start, All Programs, and VAIO Central.  
The VAIO Central window appears.  
3
4
5
Click the Categories tab.  
Double-click the System Information folder.  
Double-click the System Information icon.  
You can view the amount of system memory. If the additional memory does not appear, repeat the whole installation  
procedure and restart the computer.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
130  
Precautions  
Precautions  
This section describes safety guidelines and precautions to help you protect your VAIO computer from potential damage.  
On Handling the LCD Screen (page 131)  
On Using the Power Source (page 132)  
On Handling Your Computer (page 133)  
On Using the Built-in MOTION EYE Camera (page 135)  
On Handling Floppy Disks (page 135)  
On Handling Discs (page 136)  
On Using the Battery Pack (page 137)  
On Using Headphones (page 138)  
On Handling Memory Stick Media (page 139)  
On Handling the Hard Disk (page 140)  
On Updating Your Computer (page 141)  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
131  
Precautions  
On Handling the LCD Screen  
Do not leave the LCD screen facing the sun. This could damage the LCD screen. Be careful when using your computer  
near a window.  
Do not scratch the LCD screen or exert pressure on it. This could cause a malfunction.  
Using your computer in low temperature conditions may produce a residual image on the LCD screen. This is not a  
malfunction. When the computer returns to normal temperature, the screen returns to normal.  
A residual image may appear on the LCD screen if the same image is displayed for a long period of time. The residual  
image disappears in a while. You can use a screen saver to prevent residual images.  
The LCD screen becomes warm during operation. This is normal and does not indicate a malfunction.  
The LCD screen is manufactured using high-precision technology. You may, however, see tiny black points and/or bright  
points (red, blue, or green) that continuously appear on the LCD screen. This is a normal result of the manufacturing  
process and does not indicate a malfunction.  
Avoid rubbing the LCD screen. This could damage the screen. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the LCD screen.  
Do not change the LCD screen orientation setting in the Tablet PC Settings window even when another option is  
available for selection, as it may make your computer unstable. Sony assumes no liabilities for any defects arising out of  
the change.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
132  
Precautions  
On Using the Power Source  
See the online Specifications to check the power operation of your model.  
Do not share the AC outlet with other power-consuming equipment, such as a photocopier or shredder.  
You can purchase a power strip with a surge protector. This device helps prevent damage to your computer caused by  
sudden power surges, in an electrical storm, for example.  
Do not place heavy objects on the power cord.  
To disconnect the cord, pull it out by the plug. Never pull the cord itself.  
Unplug your computer from the AC outlet if you are not planning to use the computer for a long period of time.  
Make sure that the AC outlet is easily accessible.  
When the AC adapter is not used, unplug it from the AC outlet.  
Use the AC adapter supplied with your computer or genuine Sony products. Do not use any other AC adapter as it may  
cause a malfunction.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
133  
Precautions  
On Handling Your Computer  
Clean the cabinet with a soft cloth, which is dry or lightly moistened with a mild detergent solution. Do not use any type  
of abrasive pad, scouring powder, or solvent such as alcohol or benzine, as these may damage the finish of your  
computer.  
If you drop a solid object or any liquid onto your computer, shut down the computer and then unplug it. You may want to  
have the computer checked by qualified personnel before operating it again.  
Do not drop your computer or place any objects on top of the computer.  
Do not place your computer 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 95°F (35°C) or less than 41°F (5°C)  
High humidity  
Do not place electronic equipment near your computer. The electromagnetic field of the computer may cause a  
malfunction.  
Provide adequate air circulation to prevent internal heat from building up. Do not place your computer on porous surfaces  
such as rugs or blankets, or near material such as curtains or draperies that may block its air vents.  
Your computer uses high-frequency radio signals and may cause interference to radio or TV reception. If this occurs,  
relocate the computer a suitable distance away from the set.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
134  
Precautions  
Use only specified peripheral equipment and interface cables; otherwise, 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  
an authorized Sony Service Center. To find the nearest center or agent, see Sony Support Information (page 190) or  
visit the Sony online support Web site.  
Make sure you disconnect the power cord before cleaning your computer.  
To avoid losing data if your computer is damaged, back up your data regularly.  
Do not exert pressure on the LCD screen or its edges when opening the LCD screen lid or lifting your computer. The LCD  
screen may be sensitive to pressure or added stress and exerting pressure may damage the screen or cause the screen  
to malfunction. To open the computer, hold the base with one hand and gently lift the LCD screen lid with the other. To  
carry the computer, be sure to hold the computer with both hands.  
Use a carrying case specially designed to carry your computer.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
135  
Precautions  
On Using the Built-in MOTION EYE Camera  
Do not touch the front mirror plate over the lens of the built-in MOTION EYE camera, as it may make scratches on the  
plate and such scratches will appear on the captured images.  
Do not let the direct sunlight get into the scope of the built-in MOTION EYE camera regardless of your computer's power  
state, as it may cause a malfunction of the camera.  
The built-in MOTION EYE camera is disabled while videos or still images are imported from an i.LINK-compatible device  
connected to the i.LINK port.  
Clean the front mirror plate over the lens of the built-in MOTION EYE camera with a blower brush or a soft brush. If the  
lens is extremely dirty, wipe it off with a soft dry cloth. Do not rub the plate, as it is force-sensitive.  
On Handling Floppy Disks  
Do not open the shutter manually or touch the surface of the floppy disk.  
Keep floppy disks away from magnets.  
Keep floppy disks away from direct sunlight and other sources of heat.  
Keep floppy 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 damage your floppy disk.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
       
136  
Precautions  
On Handling Discs  
Do not touch the surface of the disc.  
Do not drop or bend the disc.  
Fingerprints and dust on the surface of a disc may cause read errors. Always hold the disc by its edges and central hole,  
as shown below:  
Proper care of the disc is essential to its continuous reliability. Do not use solvents (such as benzine, thinner, alcohol,  
commercially available cleaners, or anti-static spray) which may cause damage to the disc.  
For normal cleaning, hold the disc by its edge and use a soft cloth to wipe the surface from the center out.  
If the disc is badly soiled, moisten a soft cloth with water, wring it out well, and use it to wipe the surface of the disc from  
the center out. Wipe off any remaining moisture with a dry soft cloth.  
Never affix an adhesive label to a disc. This will affect the use of the disc irreparably.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
137  
Precautions  
On Using the Battery Pack  
Do not leave battery packs in temperatures above 140°F (60°C), such as in a car parked in the sun or under direct  
sunlight.  
Battery life is shorter in a cold environment. This is due to decreased battery efficiency at low temperatures.  
Charge battery packs at temperatures between 50°F to 86°F (10°C to 30°C). Lower temperatures require longer charging  
time.  
This computer is designed to operate only with genuine Sony batteries.  
While the battery pack is in use or being charged, heat builds up in the battery pack. This is normal and is not cause for  
concern.  
Keep the battery pack away from all sources of heat.  
Keep the battery pack dry.  
Do not open or try to disassemble the battery pack.  
Do not expose the battery pack to any mechanical shock.  
If you are not using your computer for a long period of time, remove the battery pack from the computer to prevent damage  
to the battery pack.  
If, after fully charging the battery pack, the battery power is still low, the battery pack may be reaching the end of its life  
and should be replaced.  
You do not need to discharge the battery pack before recharging.  
If you have not used the battery pack for a considerable amount of time, recharge the battery pack.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
138  
Precautions  
On Using Headphones  
Road safety – Do not use headphones while driving, cycling, or operating any motorized vehicle. It may create a traffic  
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.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
139  
Precautions  
On Handling Memory Stick Media  
Do not touch the Memory Stick media connector with your finger or metallic objects.  
Use only the adhesive label supplied with the Memory Stick media as a label.  
Do not bend, drop, or apply strong shock to the Memory Stick media.  
Do not disassemble or modify Memory Stick media.  
Do not let Memory Stick media get wet.  
Do not use or store Memory Stick 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 out of reach of children. There is a risk of swallowing the media.  
When using the Memory Stick Duo media, do not use a fine-tipped pen to write on the label adhered to the Memory Stick  
Duo media. Exerting pressure on the media may damage internal components.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
140  
Precautions  
On Handling the Hard Disk  
The hard disk drive has a high storage density and reads or writes data in a short time. However, it can be easily damaged  
by mechanical vibration, shock, or dust.  
Although the hard disk drive has the internal safety device to prevent losing data due to mechanical vibration, shock or dust,  
you should be careful 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 disk drive.  
Do not use your computer in a place subject to extreme changes in temperature.  
If the hard disk drive is damaged, the data cannot be restored.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
141  
Precautions  
On Updating Your Computer  
Confirm that the latest updates have been installed on your computer using the following software applications so that the  
computer can run more efficiently.  
To confirm that they have been installed on the computer, follow these steps for each software application:  
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 the Internet. For information on how to connect the computer to the  
Internet, see Using the Internet (page 77).  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
142  
Troubleshooting  
Troubleshooting  
This section describes how to solve common problems you might encounter when using your VAIO computer. Many problems  
have simple solutions. Try these suggestions before visiting the Sony online support Web site at the following URLs:  
http://esupport.sony.com/EN/VAIO/ for customers in USA  
http://www.sony.ca/support for customers in Canada  
http://esupport.sony.com/ES/VAIO/ for customers in Spanish speaking Latin American countries or areas  
http://esupport.sony.com/ES/VAIO/BR/ for customers in Brazil  
Computer (page 144)  
System Security (page 151)  
Battery (page 152)  
Built-in MOTION EYE Camera (page 154)  
Internet (page 157)  
Networking (page 159)  
Bluetooth Technology (page 162)  
Optical Discs (page 166)  
Display (page 170)  
Printing (page 175)  
Microphone (page 176)  
Mouse (page 177)  
Speakers (page 178)  
Touch Pad (page 180)  
Keyboard (page 181)  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
143  
Troubleshooting  
Floppy Disks (page 182)  
PC Cards (page 183)  
Audio/Video (page 185)  
Memory Stick Media (page 188)  
Peripherals (page 189)  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
144  
Troubleshooting  
Computer  
What should I do if my computer does not start?  
Make sure your computer is securely plugged into a power source and turned on. Make sure the power indicator shows  
the power is on.  
Make sure the battery pack is installed properly and charged.  
Make sure the floppy disk drive (if applicable) is empty.  
If your computer is plugged into a power strip or an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), make sure the power strip or UPS  
is plugged into a power source and turned on.  
If you are using an external display, make sure it is plugged into a power source and turned on. Make sure the brightness  
and contrast controls are adjusted correctly. See the manual that came with your display for more information.  
Disconnect the AC adapter and remove the battery pack. Wait three to five minutes. Reinstall the battery pack, reattach  
the AC adapter, and then press the power button to turn on your computer.  
Condensation may cause your computer to malfunction. If this occurs, do not use the computer for at least one hour.  
Remove any extra memory modules you may have installed since purchase.  
Check that you are using the supplied Sony AC adapter. For your safety, use only the genuine Sony rechargeable battery  
pack and AC adapter, which are supplied by Sony for your VAIO computer.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
145  
Troubleshooting  
What should I do if a BIOS error appears when I turn on my computer?  
If the message "Press <F1> to resume, <F2> to setup" appears at the bottom of the screen, follow these steps:  
1
Press the F2 key.  
The BIOS setup screen appears. If not, restart the computer and press the F2 key several times when the VAIO logo  
appears.  
2
3
4
Set the date (month/day/year). Press the Enter key.  
Press the m key to select System Time, and then set the time (hour: minute: second). Press the Enter key.  
Press the , key to select 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 an authorized Sony Service Center. To find the nearest center or agent, see Sony Support  
Information (page 190) or visit the Sony online support Web site.  
What should I do if the power indicator (Green) lights but my screen stays blank?  
Follow these steps:  
1
2
Press and hold the power button for more than four seconds to check that the power indicator goes out. Then turn on your  
computer again.  
If your computer screen still stays blank, unplug the AC adapter, remove the battery pack, and leave the computer for  
about a minute. Then reinstall the battery pack, plug in the AC adapter, and turn on the computer again.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
146  
Troubleshooting  
What should I do if my computer or software stops responding?  
If your computer stops responding while a software 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 Shut Down to turn off your computer.  
If your computer does not turn off, press the Ctrl+Alt+Delete keys and click the arrow  
and Shut Down.  
next to the Shut down button  
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 AC adapter and battery pack.  
Try reinstalling the software.  
Contact the software publisher or designated provider for technical support.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
147  
Troubleshooting  
Why doesn't my computer enter Sleep or Hibernate mode?  
Your computer may become unstable if the operating mode is changed before the computer completely enters Sleep or  
Hibernate mode.  
To restore your computer to normal operating stability  
1
2
3
Close all open programs.  
Click Start, the arrow next to the Lock button, and Restart.  
If your computer does not restart, press the Ctrl+Alt+Delete keys and click the arrow next to the Shut down button and  
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 symptom could be due to the battery pack not being installed properly. To resolve this symptom, turn off your  
computer and remove the battery pack. Then install the battery pack to the computer again. For details, see Installing  
the Battery Pack (page 23).  
If the symptom persists after performing the above, it means the installed battery pack is not compatible. Remove the  
battery pack and contact an authorized Sony Service Center. To find the nearest center or agent, see Sony Support  
Information (page 190) or visit the Sony online support Web site.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
148  
Troubleshooting  
What should I do if a message window, notifying of incompatibility or improper installation  
of the battery pack, appears and my computer enters Hibernate mode?  
This symptom could be due to the battery pack not being installed properly. To resolve this symptom, turn off your  
computer and remove the battery pack. Then install the battery pack to the computer again. For details, see Installing  
the Battery Pack (page 23).  
If the symptom persists after performing the above, it means the installed battery pack is not compatible. Remove the  
battery pack and contact an authorized Sony Service Center. To find the nearest center or agent, see Sony Support  
Information (page 190) or visit the Sony online support Web site.  
Why does the System Properties window display a slower CPU speed than 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 Password message appears. If you  
enter a wrong power-on password three times consecutively again, the System Disabled message appears and Windows  
will not start. Press and hold the power button for more than four seconds to check that the power indicator goes off. Wait for  
10 or 15 seconds, then restart your computer and enter the correct password. When entering the password, check that the  
Num lock indicator and Caps lock indicator are off. If any are lit, press the Num Lk key or the Caps Lock key to turn off the  
indicator before entering the password.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
149  
Troubleshooting  
What should I do if my game software does not work or it keeps crashing?  
Check the Web site of the game if there are any patches or updates to download.  
Make sure you have installed the latest video driver.  
On some VAIO models, the graphics memory is shared with the system. The optimal 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 an authorized Sony Service Center to reset it. A reset fee will be charged.  
To find the nearest center or agent, see Sony Support Information (page 190) or visit the Sony online support Web site.  
Why does it take time before my computer starts?  
If Norton Internet Security's Personal Firewall is active, it may take some time before the desktop screen appears due to  
network security checkups.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
150  
Troubleshooting  
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 power options, for your  
screen to turn off.  
Select the screen saver other than the VAIO Original Screen Saver.  
What should I do if I cannot boot my computer from the USB floppy disk drive connected  
to the computer?  
To boot your computer from the USB floppy disk drive, you need to change the boot device.  
Turn on your computer and press the F11 key several times before the VAIO logo appears.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
151  
Troubleshooting  
System Security  
How can I protect my computer against security threats, such as viruses?  
The Microsoft Windows operating system is preinstalled on your computer. The best way to protect your computer against  
security threats, such as viruses, is to download and install the latest Windows updates regularly.  
You can get important Windows updates by doing the following:  
!
Your computer must be connected to the Internet before you can receive updates.  
1
2
3
Connect to the Internet.  
Double-click the Windows Security Alerts icon on the taskbar.  
Follow the on-screen instructions to set up automatic or scheduled updates.  
How do I keep my antivirus software updated?  
You can keep the Norton Internet Security software program current with the latest updates from Symantec Corporation.  
To download and install the latest security update  
1
2
3
Click Start, All Programs, Norton Internet Security, and Norton Internet Security.  
Click the item to update the software on the left pane.  
Follow the on-screen instructions to select and download updates.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
152  
Troubleshooting  
Battery  
How do I find the battery charging status?  
See Charging the Battery Pack (page 24).  
When is my computer using AC power?  
When your computer is directly connected to the AC adapter, it uses AC power, even if the battery pack is installed.  
When should I recharge the battery pack?  
When the battery level falls below 10 percent.  
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 be replaced.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
153  
Troubleshooting  
Should I be concerned that the installed battery pack is warm?  
No, it is normal for the battery pack to be warm when it is powering your computer.  
Can my computer enter Hibernate mode while 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 120) for information on  
how you can manually activate Hibernate mode.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
154  
Troubleshooting  
Built-in MOTION EYE Camera  
Why does the viewer window show no images or poor-quality images?  
The built-in MOTION EYE camera cannot be shared by more than one software application. If another software  
application is using the camera, exit the application before using the built-in MOTION EYE camera.  
The video memory of your computer may have become insufficient for displaying images from the built-in MOTION EYE  
camera. Lowering the resolution or reducing the colors of the LCD screen might help.  
The viewer window may show some noises, for example horizontal streaks, if you view a rapid-moving object. This is  
normal and does not indicate a malfunction.  
If the problem persists, restart your computer.  
Why are captured images poor in quality?  
The images captured under the fluorescent lamp may show reflection of the light.  
A dark portion in captured images may appear as a noise.  
If the front mirror plate over the lens is dirty, you cannot take a clear shot. Clean the lens. See On Using the Built-in  
MOTION EYE Camera (page 135).  
Why do captured images contain dropped frames and audio interruptions?  
The effect settings on your software application may have caused dropped frames. See the help file on your software  
application for more information.  
There may be more software applications running than your computer can handle. Exit the applications that you are not  
currently using.  
The power management function of your computer may have been activated. Check the CPU performance.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
155  
Troubleshooting  
Why does movie playback show dropped frames when my computer is running on the  
battery?  
The battery pack is running out of power. Connect your computer to an AC power source.  
Why do the images captured by the built-in MOTION EYE camera flicker?  
This problem occurs when you use the camera under fluorescent lights due to the mismatch between lighting output  
frequency and shutter speed.  
To reduce flicker noise, change the pointing direction of the camera or the brightness of camera images. In some software  
applications, you can set an appropriate value to one of the camera properties (e.g. LightSource, Flickness, etc.) to  
eliminate flicker noise.  
Why is the video input from the built-in MOTION EYE camera suspended for a few  
seconds?  
The video input may be suspended for a few seconds if:  
a shortcut key with the Fn key is used.  
the CPU load increases.  
This is normal and does not indicate a malfunction.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
156  
Troubleshooting  
Why can't I use the built-in MOTION EYE camera?  
The built-in MOTION EYE camera cannot be shared by more than one software application. If another software  
application is using the camera, exit the application before using the built-in MOTION EYE camera.  
If the problem persists, you must reinstall the driver software for the camera. Follow these steps:  
1
2
3
Click Start, Control Panel, Hardware and Sound, and Device Manager.  
Double-click Imaging devices.  
Right-click the device name for your camera and click Update Driver Software.  
What should I do if my computer becomes unstable when it enters a power saving mode  
while the built-in MOTION EYE camera is in use?  
Do not place your computer into Sleep or Hibernate mode while you are using the built-in MOTION EYE camera.  
If your computer automatically enters Sleep or Hibernate mode, change the corresponding power saving mode setting.  
For changing the setting, see Using the Power Saving Modes (page 117).  
What should I do if I cannot successfully capture videos in the WMV format with the built-  
in MOTION EYE camera?  
Change the record format to the MPEG-1 format, or click the VAIO Camera Utility icon on the taskbar and the Advanced  
Setting tab on the Properties window and cancel the Low Light check box.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
157  
Troubleshooting  
Internet  
What should I do if my modem does not work?  
Make sure the telephone cable is securely plugged into the modem port on your computer and the wall jack.  
Make sure the telephone cable is working. Plug the cable into an ordinary telephone and listen for a dial tone.  
Make sure that 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
2
3
4
5
Click Start and Control Panel.  
Click Hardware and Sound.  
Click Phone and Modem Options.  
On the Modems tab, check that your modem is listed.  
On the Dialing Rules tab, check the location information is correct.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
158  
Troubleshooting  
Why is my modem connection slow?  
Your computer is equipped with a V.92/ V.90 compatible modem. Many factors may influence modem connection speed,  
including telephone line noise or compatibility with telephone equipment, such as fax machines or other modems. If you think  
your modem is not connecting properly to other PC-based modems, fax machines, or your Internet Service Provider (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 experiencing technical problems.  
If you have a second telephone line, try connecting the modem to that line.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
159  
Troubleshooting  
Networking  
What should I do if my computer cannot connect to a wireless LAN access point?  
Connection availability is affected by distance and obstructions. You may need to move your computer away from  
obstructions or closer to any access point you may be using.  
Make sure the WIRELESS or WIRELESS LAN switch is on and the Wireless LAN indicator is lit on your computer.  
Make sure power to the access point is on.  
Follow these steps to check the settings:  
1
2
3
Click Start and Control Panel.  
Click View network status and tasks under Network and Internet.  
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
2
3
Right-click the power status icon on the taskbar and select Power Options.  
Click Change plan settings under the current power plan.  
Click Change advanced power settings.  
The Power Options window appears.  
4
5
6
Select the Advanced settings tab.  
Double-click Wireless Adapter Settings and Power Saving Mode.  
Select Maximum Performance from the drop-down list both for On battery and Plugged in.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
160  
Troubleshooting  
What should I do if I cannot access the Internet?  
Check the access point settings. See the manual that came with your access point for more information.  
Make sure your computer and the access point are connected to one another.  
Move your computer away from obstructions or closer to any access point you may be using.  
Make sure your computer is properly configured for Internet access.  
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. Follow the steps in What should I do if my computer cannot  
connect to a wireless LAN access point? (page 159) to change the settings.  
Why is the data transfer speed slow?  
The 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 overloaded depending on how many other  
devices are communicating via the access point.  
If your access point interferes with other access points, change the access point channel. See the manual that came with  
your access point for more information.  
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. Follow the steps in What should I do if my computer cannot  
connect to a wireless LAN access point? (page 159) to change the settings.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
161  
Troubleshooting  
How do I avoid data transfer interruptions?  
When your computer is connected to an access point, data transfer interruptions may occur when using large files or if  
the computer is in close proximity to microwaves and cordless telephones.  
Move your computer closer to the access point.  
Make sure the access point connection is intact.  
Change the access point channel. See the manual that came with your access point for more information.  
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. Follow the steps in What should I do if my computer cannot  
connect to a wireless LAN access point? (page 159) 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 connectivity information contained in the manual that came with your  
access point.  
Why does the network connection stop when I change the encryption key?  
Two computers with the wireless LAN functionality may lose a peer-to-peer network connection if the encryption key is  
changed. You can either change the encryption key back to the original profile or re-enter the key on both computers so the  
key matches.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
162  
Troubleshooting  
Bluetooth Technology  
What should I do if other Bluetooth devices cannot discover my computer?  
Make sure both devices have the Bluetooth functionality enabled.  
If the Bluetooth indicator is off, turn on the WIRELESS switch.  
You cannot use the Bluetooth functionality when your computer is in a power saving mode. Return to Normal mode, then  
turn on the WIRELESS switch.  
Your computer and the device may be too far apart. Wireless Bluetooth technology works best when the devices are within  
33 feet (10 meters) of each other.  
Why can't my computer discover other Bluetooth devices?  
If the connected device is also connected to other devices, it may not appear in the Bluetooth utility software or you may not  
be able to communicate with the device.  
What should I do if I cannot find the Bluetooth device with which I want to communicate?  
Check that the Bluetooth functionality of the device with which you want to communicate is on. See the other device's  
manual for more information.  
If the device with which you want to communicate is already communicating with another Bluetooth device, it may not be  
found or it may not be able to communicate with your computer.  
To allow other Bluetooth devices to communicate with your computer, right-click the Bluetooth icon  
on the taskbar and  
select Options from the menu to open the Options window. Then, check if proper security modes are selected on the  
Security tab. For details on the security modes, see the help file on the Bluetooth utility software.  
See Communicating with Another Bluetooth Device (page 89) for more information.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
163  
Troubleshooting  
What should I do if other Bluetooth devices cannot connect to my computer?  
Make sure the other device is authenticated.  
Your computer may not allow connections from other devices. To enable Bluetooth device connections, follow these steps:  
1
2
Right-click the Bluetooth icon  
on the taskbar.  
Select Options from the menu.  
The Options window appears.  
3
Check if Standard or Low is selected for the Bluetooth security level on the Security tab.  
If a custom Bluetooth security level is selected, click the Default level button.  
4
Click OK.  
The data transfer distance can be shorter than 33 feet (10 meters) depending on existing obstacles between the two  
devices, on radio wave quality, and on the operating system or the software in use. Move your computer and Bluetooth  
devices closer to each other.  
If the device with which you want to communicate is already communicating with another Bluetooth device, it may not be  
found or it may not be able to communicate with your computer.  
Check that the Bluetooth functionality of the device with which you want to communicate is on. See the other device's  
manual for more information.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
164  
Troubleshooting  
Why is my Bluetooth connection slow?  
The data transfer speed depends on the obstacles and/or the distance between the two devices, on the radio wave quality,  
and on the operating system or the software in use. Move your computer and Bluetooth devices closer to each other.  
The 2.4 GHz radio frequency used by Bluetooth and wireless LAN devices is also used by other devices. Bluetooth  
devices incorporate technology that minimizes interference from other devices using the same wavelength, however,  
communication speed and connection range may be reduced. Interference from other devices may also stop  
communication altogether.  
Connection availability is affected by distance and obstructions. You may need to move your computer away from  
obstructions or closer to the device to which it is connected.  
Identify and remove obstacles between your computer and the device to which it is connected.  
Note that due to limitations of the Bluetooth standard, large files may occasionally be corrupted during continuous transfer  
due to electromagnetic interference from the environment.  
Why can't I connect to service supported by the target Bluetooth device?  
Connection is only possible for services also supported by the computer with the Bluetooth functionality. For more details,  
see the help file on the Bluetooth utility software.  
Can I use a device with Bluetooth technology on airplanes?  
With Bluetooth technology, your computer transmits a radio frequency of 2.4 GHz. Sensitive locations, such as hospitals and  
airplanes, may have restrictions on use of Bluetooth devices, due to radio interference. Check with facility staff to see if use  
of the Bluetooth functionality on the computer is permitted.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
165  
Troubleshooting  
Why can't I connect to a Bluetooth device by specifying its IP address on a Personal Area  
Network (PAN)?  
The Bluetooth utility software uses Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) to assign IP addresses to active wireless  
devices. If you specify a fixed IP address for the device to which you want to connect, the utility cannot assign a dynamic IP  
address to the device and fails. Do not specify IP addresses when using a PAN.  
Why can't I use the Bluetooth functionality when I log onto my computer as a user with a  
standard user account?  
The Bluetooth functionality may not be available to a user with a standard user account on your computer. Log onto the  
computer as a user with administrator rights.  
Why can't I connect to a Bluetooth device in Personal Area Network User mode?  
If the device to which you want to connect supports Bluetooth communication in Personal Area Network User mode only, you  
cannot establish a connection from your computer.  
Why can't I use the Bluetooth utility software when I switch a user?  
If you switch a user without logging off your system, the Bluetooth utility software will not work successfully. Be sure to log off  
before switching a user. To log off your system, click Start, the arrow next to the Lock button, and Log Off.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
166  
Troubleshooting  
Optical Discs  
Why does my computer freeze when I try to read a disc?  
The disc that your computer is trying to read may be dirty or damaged. Follow these steps:  
1
2
3
Press the Ctrl+Alt+Delete keys and click the arrow next to the Shut down button and Restart to restart the computer.  
Remove the disc from the optical disc drive.  
Check the disc for dirt or damage. If you need to clean the disc, see On Handling Discs (page 136) for instructions.  
What should I do if the drive tray does not open?  
Make sure your computer is on.  
If power supply to the optical disc drive is disabled by VAIO Power Management, the substitute drive eject button on the  
optical disc drive will not work. Use the disc drive eject button located to the upper left of the keyboard. Note that it will  
take a while to eject the drive tray if the optical disc drive is not powered.  
If the drive eject button does not work, click Start and Computer. Right-click the optical disc drive icon, and select Eject  
from the shortcut menu.  
If none of the above options work, insert a thin, straight object (such as a paper clip) in the manual eject hole near the  
substitute drive eject button.  
Try restarting your computer.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
167  
Troubleshooting  
What should I do if I cannot play a disc properly on my computer?  
Make sure the disc is inserted into the optical disc drive with the label facing upward.  
Make sure the necessary program(s) is installed according to the manufacturer's instructions.  
If a disc is dirty or damaged, your computer will stop responding. Follow these steps:  
1
2
3
Press the Ctrl+Alt+Delete keys and click the arrow next to the Shut down button and Restart to restart the computer.  
Remove the disc from the optical disc drive.  
Check the disc for dirt or damage. If you need to clean the disc, see On Handling Discs (page 136) for instructions.  
If you are playing a disc and cannot hear sound, do any of the following:  
Check if the volume is turned off by the muting button.  
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 between the  
speakers and your computer.  
Make sure the correct driver software is installed. Follow these steps:  
1
2
3
4
Click Start and Control Panel.  
Click System and Maintenance.  
Click System.  
Click Device Manager on the left pane.  
The Device Manager window appears with a listing of your computer's hardware devices.  
If an "X" or an exclamation point appears on the listed device, you may need to enable the device or reinstall the  
drivers.  
5
Double-click the optical disc drive device to open a list of the optical disc drives of your computer.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
168  
Troubleshooting  
6
7
Double-click the desired drive.  
You can confirm the driver software by selecting the Driver tab, and clicking Driver Details.  
Click OK to close the window.  
Make sure an adhesive label is not affixed to 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. Condensation can cause the  
computer to malfunction.  
Make sure your computer is running on AC power supply and try the disc again.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
169  
Troubleshooting  
What should I do if I cannot write data to CD media?  
Make sure you neither launch any software application nor allow any to launch automatically, not even a screen saver.  
Stop using the keyboard.  
If you are using a CD-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 brands of  
DVD recordable media do not work.  
The preinstalled software on your computer does not support copying DVD movies. Macrovision or a similar video  
protection technology prevents users from copying DVD movies. Copying a DVD movie would be a copyright infringement  
and therefore illegal.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
170  
Troubleshooting  
Display  
Why did my screen go blank?  
Your computer screen may go blank if the computer loses power or enters a power saving mode (Sleep or Hibernate). If  
the computer is in LCD (Video) Sleep mode, press any key to bring the computer back into Normal mode. See Using the  
Power Saving Modes (page 117) 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 23) for more information.  
If the display mode is set to the external display, press the Fn+F7 keys. See Combinations and Functions with the Fn  
Key (page 29) for more information.  
Why can't I view the whole screen image of a DVD video on my TV screen?  
The screen resolution may not be properly set. We recommend that you adjust the screen resolution to 1024 x 768 or smaller,  
depending on the size of your external display screen.  
How do I adjust the image on my TV screen?  
Use the controls on your external display to adjust the image. See the manual that came with your TV for more information.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
171  
Troubleshooting  
How do I change the screen resolution on my TV screen?  
Your TV screen may not show the whole screen image of a video if the screen resolution is set larger than 1024 x 768.  
Adjust the screen resolution to 1024 x 768 or smaller.  
If you are using the AV Out jack, plug the audio-video (AV) cable into your computer before you start it.  
To change the screen resolution, follow these steps:  
1
2
Right-click the desktop and select Personalize from the shortcut menu.  
Click Display Settings.  
The Display Settings window appears.  
3
Move the slider under Resolution to the left to reduce or to the right to increase the screen resolution.  
How do I switch the display output from my screen to TV?  
See Selecting Display Modes (page 101).  
Alternatively, you can press the Fn+F7 keys to view the image either on your computer screen or on your TV. See  
Combinations and Functions with the Fn Key (page 29) for more information.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
172  
Troubleshooting  
Why doesn't my screen display a video?  
If the external display is selected for the display output and the external display is disconnected, you cannot display a  
video on your computer screen. Stop video playback, change the display output to the computer screen, and then restart  
video playback. See Selecting Display Modes (page 101). Alternatively, you can press the Fn+F7 keys to change the  
display output. See Combinations and Functions with the Fn Key (page 29) for more information.  
The video memory of 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
2
Right-click the desktop and select Personalize from the shortcut menu.  
Click Display Settings.  
The Display Settings window appears.  
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 available graphics memory and video memory. Right-click on the desktop, select Personalize from the shortcut  
menu, and click Display Settings, Advanced Settings, and the Adaptor tab. The value may be displayed differently from the actual memory on your  
computer.  
What should I do if my screen is dark?  
Press the Fn+F6 keys to brighten your computer screen.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
173  
Troubleshooting  
What should I do if the LCD brightness of my screen changes?  
The LCD brightness setting, adjusted with the Fn+F5/F6 keys, is temporary and may be restored to the original setting when  
your computer returns to Normal mode from Sleep or Hibernate mode. To save your preference for the brightness, follow  
these steps:  
1
2
3
Right-click the power status icon on the taskbar and select Power Options.  
Click Change plan settings under the current power plan.  
Click Change advanced power settings.  
The Power Options window appears.  
4
5
6
Select the Advanced settings tab.  
Double-click Display.  
Adjust the LCD brightness setting in the item for brightness adjustment.  
What should I do if the external display stays 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 Central. To change the settings, launch the VAIO Central, click the Categories tab and select the control item for the  
external display, and then click to select the check box for changing the options to detect the external display. Then, try the  
Fn+F7 keys to change the display output.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
174  
Troubleshooting  
How do I run Windows Aero?  
!
This Q & A entry applies to selected models only.  
To run Windows Aero, follow these steps:  
1
2
3
Click Start and Control Panel.  
Click Customize colors under Appearance and Personalization.  
Click Open classic appearance properties for more color options.  
The Appearance Settings window appears.  
4
5
Select Windows Aero from the Color scheme options on the Appearance tab.  
Click OK.  
For information about the Windows Aero features, such as Windows Flip 3D, see Windows Help and Support.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
175  
Troubleshooting  
Printing  
What should I do if I cannot print a document?  
Make sure your printer is on, and the printer cable is securely connected to the ports on the printer and computer.  
Make sure your printer is compatible with the Windows operating system installed on your computer.  
You may need to install the printer driver software before you use your printer. See the manual that came with your printer  
for more information.  
If your printer 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
2
3
4
5
6
Click Start and Control Panel.  
Click Printer under Hardware and Sound.  
Right-click the printer icon and select Properties.  
Click the Ports tab.  
Click to cancel the Enable bidirectional support check box.  
Click OK.  
This change to the settings disables the bidirectional communication functions of the printer, such as data transfer, status  
monitoring, and remote panel.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
176  
Troubleshooting  
Microphone  
What should I do if my microphone does not work?  
If you are using an external microphone, make sure the microphone is turned on and is properly plugged into the  
microphone jack on your computer.  
Your sound input device may have been incorrectly configured. To configure the sound input device, follow these steps:  
1
2
3
4
5
Close all open programs.  
Click Start and Control Panel.  
Click Hardware and Sound.  
Click Manage audio devices under Sound.  
On the Recording tab, select the desired device for sound input and click Set Default.  
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.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
177  
Troubleshooting  
Mouse  
What should I do if my computer does not recognize my mouse?  
Make sure your mouse is securely plugged into the port.  
Restart your computer with your mouse connected.  
What should I do if the pointer does not move when I use my mouse?  
Make sure another mouse is not connected.  
If the pointer does not move while a software 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 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.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
178  
Troubleshooting  
Speakers  
What should I do if my external speakers do not work?  
If you are using a program that has its own volume control, make sure the volume control is properly set. See the  
program's help file for more information.  
Make sure your speakers are properly connected and the volume is turned up loud enough to hear sound.  
Make sure your speakers are designed for computer use.  
If your speakers have a muting button, set the button to off.  
The volume may have been turned off by the muting button. Press the button once again.  
The volume may have been minimized by the volume (-) button. Press the volume (+) button to turn up the volume loud  
enough 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.  
Your sound output device may have been incorrectly configured. To configure the sound output device, follow these steps:  
1
2
3
4
5
Close all open programs.  
Click Start and Control Panel.  
Click Hardware and Sound.  
Click Manage audio devices under Sound.  
On the Playback tab, select the desired device for sound output and click Set Default.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
     
179  
Troubleshooting  
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 volume control is properly set. See the  
program's help file for more information.  
Make sure the speaker volume is turned up loud enough and the audio option is enabled.  
The volume may have been turned off by the muting button. Press the button once again.  
The volume may have been minimized by the volume (-) button. Press the volume (+) button to turn up the volume loud  
enough to hear sound.  
Check the Windows volume controls by clicking the volume icon on the taskbar.  
Your sound output device may have been incorrectly configured. To configure the sound output device, follow the steps  
in What should I do if my external speakers do not work? (page 178).  
What should I do if I do not hear microphone sound from my HDMI-compatible TV?  
Your computer is not capable of outputting audio signals from the microphone jack directly through the HDMI port. Save the  
audio data first to an audio file, and then play it back to output through the HDMI port.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
180  
Troubleshooting  
Touch Pad  
What should I do if the touch pad does not work?  
You may have disabled the touch pad without connecting a mouse to your computer.  
Make sure that a mouse is not connected to your computer.  
If the pointer does not move while a software 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 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.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
181  
Troubleshooting  
Keyboard  
What should I do if the keyboard configuration is wrong?  
The language layout of your computer's keyboard is labeled on the packaging box. If you choose a different regional keyboard  
when you complete the Windows setup, the key configuration will be mismatched.  
To change the keyboard configuration, follow these steps:  
1
2
3
Click Start and Control Panel  
Click Clock, Language, and Region, and click Regional and Language Options.  
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 lock indicator is on, press the Num Lk key to turn it off before entering these characters.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
182  
Troubleshooting  
Floppy Disks  
Why doesn't the Safely Remove Hardware icon appear on the taskbar when the drive is  
connected?  
Your computer does not recognize the floppy disk drive. First, make sure the USB cable is properly connected to the USB  
port. If you need to secure the connection, wait a few moments for the computer to recognize the drive. If the icon still does  
not appear, follow these steps:  
1
2
3
4
5
Close all programs that are accessing the floppy disk drive.  
Wait for the LED indicator on the floppy disk drive to turn off.  
Push the eject button to remove the disk, and disconnect the USB floppy disk drive from your computer.  
Reconnect the floppy disk drive by inserting the USB connector (with the USB icon facing upward) into the USB port.  
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 sure the floppy disk is properly inserted in the drive.  
If the disk is inserted properly and you are still unable to write data to it, the disk may be full or write-protected. You can  
either use a floppy disk that is not write-protected or disable the write-protect feature.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
183  
Troubleshooting  
PC Cards  
What should I do if my PC Card does not work?  
Make sure the PC Card is inserted properly. See Inserting a PC Card (page 61) for more information.  
Make sure the PC Card is compatible with the Microsoft Windows operating system installed on your computer.  
See the manual that came with your PC Card for more information. You may need to install driver software if you are not  
using a Sony PC Card.  
If your PC Card, which worked normally before, does not work, you may need to install the most recent driver software.  
Follow these steps:  
1
2
3
4
Click Start and Control Panel.  
Click System and Maintenance.  
Click System.  
Click Device Manager on the left pane.  
The Device Manager window appears.  
5
6
Double-click the device name for the PC Card to display the properties window.  
Select the Driver tab and click Update Driver.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
184  
Troubleshooting  
Why doesn't my computer recognize attached devices?  
For some PC Cards, if you alternate between Normal mode and Sleep or Hibernate mode while the card is inserted into the  
PC Card slot, your computer may not recognize the PC Card or the connected device. Restart the computer.  
Why can't I insert my PC Card?  
Make sure you are inserting the card correctly. See Inserting a PC Card (page 61) for more information.  
You may not be able to use some PC Cards or some functions of the PC Card on your computer. See the manual that  
came with your PC Card for more information.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
185  
Troubleshooting  
Audio/Video  
What should I do if I cannot use my DV camcorder?  
If it is prompted that the i.LINK device seems to be disconnected or turned off, the i.LINK cable may not be securely plugged  
into the port on your computer or camcorder. Unplug the cable, and plug it in once again. See Connecting an i.LINK Device  
(page 109) for more information.  
i.LINK is a trademark of Sony used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE 1394 connection. The procedure to establish an i.LINK connection  
may vary, depending on a software application, an operating system, and a compatible i.LINK device. Not all products with an i.LINK connection can  
communicate with each other. See the manual that came with your compatible i.LINK device for more information on operating conditions and proper  
connection. Before connecting compatible i.LINK PC peripherals to your system, such as a CD-RW or hard disk drive, confirm their operating system  
compatibility and required operating conditions.  
How do I turn off the Windows startup sound?  
To turn off the Windows startup sound, follow these steps:  
1
2
3
4
5
Click Start and Control Panel.  
Click Hardware and Sound.  
Click Manage audio devices under Sound.  
On the Sounds tab, click to cancel the Play Windows Startup sound check box.  
Click OK.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
186  
Troubleshooting  
What should I do if I do not hear the sound from the sound output device connected to the  
HDMI port?  
Once you have connected a device to the HDMI port, you need to change the device for sound output if you want to hear  
sound from the device.  
To change the sound output device, follow these steps:  
1
2
3
4
5
Close all open programs.  
Click Start and Control Panel.  
Click Hardware and Sound.  
Click Manage audio devices under Sound.  
On the Playback tab, select the desired device for sound output and click Set Default.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
187  
Troubleshooting  
How do I output the Dolby Digital or DTS sound through an S/PDIF or HDMI-compatible  
device?  
To output the Dolby Digital or DTS sound from a disc through an S/PDIF or HDMI-compatible device connected to your  
computer, follow these steps:  
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Click Start and Control Panel.  
Click Hardware and Sound.  
Click Manage audio devices under Sound.  
On the Playback tab, select the optical out or HDMI icon and click Properties.  
Click Supported Formats tab.  
Click to select the DTS audio and Dolby Digital check boxes.  
Click OK.  
!
If the Dolby Digital or DTS sound is output to a device that does not support it, the device will not play any sound. In such a case, cancel the DTS audio  
and Dolby Digital check boxes.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
188  
Troubleshooting  
Memory Stick Media  
What should I do if I cannot use Memory Stick media, which were formatted on a VAIO  
computer, on other devices?  
You may need to reformat your Memory Stick media.  
Formatting Memory Stick media erases all data, including music data previously saved on it. Before you reformat Memory  
Stick media, back up important data and confirm that the media does not contain files you want to keep.  
1
2
Copy the data from the Memory Stick media onto your hard disk drive to save data or images.  
Format the Memory Stick media by following the steps in To format a Memory Stick media (page 71).  
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 from a digital camera using Memory Stick media?  
Yes, and you can view video clips that you have recorded with Memory Stick media-compatible digital cameras.  
Why can't I write data to Memory Stick media?  
Some versions of Memory Stick media are equipped with an erasure prevention switch to protect data from accidental erasure  
or overwriting. Make sure the erasure prevention switch is off.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
189  
Troubleshooting  
Peripherals  
What should I do if I cannot connect a USB device?  
If applicable, check the USB device is turned on and using its own power supply. For example, if you are using a digital  
camera, check if the battery is charged. If you are using a printer, check if the power cable is connected properly to the  
AC outlet.  
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 device from working because of the distribution of power. We recommend you connect the  
device directly to your computer without a hub.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
190  
Support Options  
Support Options  
This section contains information on where to go for answers to questions about your VAIO computer and the preinstalled  
software.  
Sony Support Information  
See the following sources for answers in the sequence listed below.  
1
2
3
4
VAIO Computer Documentation  
This on-screen User Guide (this manual) and the printed Welcome mat provide information on how to maximize your  
computer's capabilities and solve common problems.  
Program Guides and Help Files  
The preinstalled programs on your computer may be supplied with individual help guides. These guides are stored on the  
hard disk drive as on-screen help files. You can find the help files from the help menu under the specific program.  
Operating System Online Support  
Your computer comes preinstalled with a Microsoft Windows operating system. For operating system support, you can  
visit Microsoft customer support at: http://support.microsoft.com/directory/.  
Sony Computing Support  
This service provides instant access to information on commonly encountered problems. Type a description of the  
problem and the Knowledge Database searches for the corresponding solutions online.  
You can visit the Sony online support Web site at the following URLs:  
http://esupport.sony.com/EN/VAIO/ for customers in USA  
http://www.sony.ca/support for customers in Canada  
http://esupport.sony.com/ES/VAIO/ for customers in Spanish speaking Latin American countries or areas  
http://esupport.sony.com/ES/VAIO/BR/ for customers in Brazil  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
       
191  
Support Options  
5
VAIO Update  
When your computer is connected to the Internet, VAIO Update automatically notifies you when critical software and  
security information is posted on the support Web site. Click the VAIO Update notice to open the VAIO Support Web site  
and view the information.  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
192  
Support Options  
For users in Latin American countries or areas  
Customer Information Center  
If you do not find the information you are looking for at our site, you may call Sony directly. In order to receive the fastest and  
most efficient services, have the following information readily available:  
1
2
Your VAIO computer model  
You can find it at the lower right corner of the display on the notebook, and in the same place on the front panel of the  
CPU on the desktop.  
Your computer's serial number  
You can find it on the back or bottom of the notebook or on the back of the desktop; the serial number is the last 7 digits  
of the number below the barcode.  
3
4
5
The operating system on your computer  
The hardware component or the software program that is causing you the problem  
A brief description of the problem  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
193  
Support Options  
In order to contact a Sony technical support representative, call the following numbers:  
In Argentina:  
(011) 6770-SONY (7669)  
In Mexico:  
In Mexico City: 5002-9819  
In the Mexican Republic: 01-800-759-7669  
In Colombia:  
01-800-550-7000  
In Peru:  
0-801-1-7000 or 511-6100  
In Chile:  
Sony answers: 800-261-800  
From cellular phones: 02-754-6333  
In Venezuela:  
0-800-1-SONY-00 (0-800-1-7669-00)  
In Panama:  
800-2050  
In Brazil:  
(11) 3677-1080  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
194  
Support Options  
Program Support Information  
Depending on the computer model and particular configuration you purchased, your computer may not include all of the  
software programs listed below.  
Contacts for Sony software products are listed below:  
For users in USA  
Telephone 888-4-SONY-PC (888-476-6972)  
For users in Canada  
Telephone 888-4-SONY-PC (888-476-6972)  
For users in Spanish speaking Latin American countries or areas  
For users in Brazil  
For contacts about third-party software products, see the following.  
Adobe® Photoshop® Elements, Premiere®, Reader®  
Adobe Systems Inc.  
For users in USA and Canada  
Telephone 800-685-3652  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
   
195  
Support Options  
America Online® (Dial-Up)  
America Online, Inc.  
For users in USA and Canada  
AOL® Toolbar  
America Online, Inc.  
For users in USA and Canada  
AOL® Instant Messenger™  
America Online, Inc.  
For users in USA and Canada  
Bluetooth® Utility  
TOSHIBA Corporation  
For contacts about the software, see Program Support Information (page 194).  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
196  
Support Options  
Click to DVD® software  
Sony Electronics Inc.  
At the touch of a button, Click to DVD software allows you to automatically burn DVDs from a digital video (DV) device.  
Create DVDs by capturing video content straight from a DV device or by importing video from stored files — and 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 give a professional look to your DVDs by adding chapter menus, backgrounds, and menu  
screens. You are only a few clicks away from your own DVDs!  
For contacts about the software, see Program Support Information (page 194).  
Diskeeper 9.0 Home  
Diskeeper Corporation  
For users in USA and Canada  
InstantOn  
InterVideo, Inc.  
For users in USA and Canada  
Intel® PROSet/Wireless Software  
Intel Corporation  
For users in USA and Canada  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
197  
Support Options  
LocationFree  
Sony Electronics Inc.  
For contacts about the software, see Program Support Information (page 194).  
Microsoft® Office Basic Edition, Office Professional Edition, Office Small Business Edition, Office Ready,  
Office Ultimate  
Microsoft Corp.  
For users in USA and Canada  
60-Day Trial Version of Microsoft® Office  
!
The Microsoft Office 60-Day Trial software included with this computer system is intended for evaluation purposes only. The software has been installed  
and you must activate the software before you can use it. Product activation procedures will be detailed during initial launch of the software; activation  
requires Internet access. This software has an expiration date of 60 days from the date of first use, at which time the software will operate under  
reduced-functionality mode, limiting end-user options and operations.  
Microsoft Corp.  
For users in USA and Canada  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
198  
Support Options  
Microsoft® Internet Explorer, Movie Maker, Media Player, Works  
Microsoft Corp.  
For users in USA and Canada  
MobiTV®  
MobiTV, Inc.  
For users in USA and Canada  
14-Day Trial Version of Napster®  
Napster, Inc.  
For users in USA and Canada  
Norton Internet Security™  
Symantec Corporation  
For users in USA and Canada  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
199  
Support Options  
Protector Suite QL  
Sony Electronics Inc.  
Protector Suite QL Edition allows you to easily setup your fingerprint sensor that comes with your computer. Protector  
Suite QL supports fingerprint logon, fast user switching, file encryption, registering forms and more.  
For contacts about the software, see Program Support Information (page 194).  
Quickbooks Free Starter Edition  
Intuit Inc.  
For users in USA and Canada  
Roxio® Easy Media Creator® 9 Suite  
Sonic Solutions  
For users in USA and Canada  
SafeIT-Digital Document Shredder  
SafeIT Security Ltd.  
For users in USA and Canada  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
200  
Support Options  
SmartWiConnection Utility  
Sony Electronics Inc.  
SmartWi Connection Utility allows you to easily switch between the various wireless components (Wireless LAN, Wireless  
WAN, and Bluetooth® technology connectivity) that came with your computer.  
For contacts about the software, see Program Support Information (page 194).  
SonicStage® software  
Sony Electronics Inc.  
The SonicStage jukebox software program gives you all the tools you need to manage music on your computer.  
SonicStage software supports high-quality digital audio storage, a sleek player skin design, and audio CD burning  
capability.  
For contacts about the software, see Program Support Information (page 194).  
SonicStage Mastering Studiosoftware  
Sony Electronics Inc.  
Use SonicStage Mastering Studio software to record songs from analog records or cassette tapes into your computer  
and output them to CDs, DVDs, or audio files in WAV format.  
For contacts about the software, see Program Support Information (page 194).  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
201  
Support Options  
System Mechanic® 6  
iolo technologies®, LLC  
For users in USA and Canada  
VAIO® Action Setup  
Sony Electronics Inc.  
VAIO Action Setup manages the settings for your computer's shortcut keys.  
For contacts about the software, see Program Support Information (page 194).  
VAIO® Camera Capture Utility  
Sony Electronics Inc.  
VAIO Camera Capture Utility is provided for capturing still images and movies with the external camera connected to a  
USB port or an i.LINK® port on your computer or with the built-in MOTION EYE® camera on your computer.  
For contacts about the software, see Program Support Information (page 194).  
VAIO® Camera Utility  
Sony Electronics Inc.  
VAIO Camera Utility provides you with various video quality settings when using the internal camera.  
For contacts about the software, see Program Support Information (page 194).  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
202  
Support Options  
VAIO® Central  
Sony Electronics Inc.  
VAIO Central provides a central location that gathers resources to configure your VAIO computer and view your  
computer's configuration and specifications.  
For contacts about the software, see Program Support Information (page 194).  
VAIO® Diagnostic  
Sony Electronics Inc.  
For contacts about the software, see Program Support Information (page 194).  
VAIO® Edit Component  
Sony Electronics Inc.  
VAIO Edit Component provides enhanced editing functionality when using Adobe Premiere Pro or Adobe Premiere  
Elements on your VAIO computer.  
For contacts about the software, see Program Support Information (page 194).  
VAIO® HDD Protection  
Sony Electronics Inc.  
VAIO HDD Protection allows you to customize your settings for protecting your hard disk drive against shock hazards.  
For contacts about the software, see Program Support Information (page 194).  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
203  
Support Options  
VAIO® LAN Setting Utility  
Sony Electronics Inc.  
For contacts about the software, see Program Support Information (page 194).  
VAIO Mediasoftware  
Sony Electronics Inc.  
VAIO Mediasoftware brings multimedia to your network, enabling you to share music, video, and still image files  
between your VAIO® computers. You can set up one or more VAIO computers as "media servers," which store your  
multimedia files and make them available to other compatible VAIO computers on your wired or wireless network.  
For contacts about the software, see Program Support Information (page 194).  
VAIO® Security Center  
Sony Electronics Inc.  
Sony cares about your VAIO personal computer. The VAIO Security Center highlights some of the security features your  
machine includes.  
For contacts about the software, see Program Support Information (page 194).  
VAIO® Touch Launcher  
Sony Electronics Inc.  
VAIO Touch Launcher allows you to run an application program or change the sound/display settings with the buttons on  
the launcher window.  
For contacts about the software, see Program Support Information (page 194).  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
204  
Support Options  
VAIO® Update  
Sony Electronics Inc.  
The VAIO Update utility helps you keep your VAIO® computer up to date by regularly checking the Sony online support  
Web site for important software updates and information for your specific VAIO computer model.  
For contacts about the software, see Program Support Information (page 194).  
VAIO Video & Photo Suite  
Sony Electronics Inc.  
VAIO Content Importer and VAIO Content Exporter are included in this utility software. This software enables you to  
import and export your media files to or from a DVD, digital still camera, or camcorder.  
For contacts about the software, see Program Support Information (page 194).  
VAIO® Wireless Switch Setting Utility  
Sony Electronics Inc.  
For contacts about the software, see Program Support Information (page 194).  
WinDVD® software for VAIO® computers  
InterVideo, Inc.  
For users in USA and Canada  
Telephone 510-651-0888  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
205  
Support Options  
Xdrive™  
America Online, Inc.  
For users in USA and Canada  
Zoom Utility  
Sony Electronics Inc.  
The Zoom Utility will allow you to magnify a portion of the screen.  
For contacts about the software, see Program Support Information (page 194).  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 
© 2007 Sony Corporation  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
 

Sharp Calculator EL W506 User Manual
Snapper Lawn Mower 1690821 User Manual
Sony Car Satellite TV System KDL 55W829B 50W829B KDL 55W828B 50W828B User Manual
Sony DVD Player S360 User Manual
Sony Speaker System SA VS300H User Manual
SPX Cooling Technologies Refrigerator JW Series User Manual
Stanley Black Decker Trash Compactor TP03 User Manual
Stovax Stove Coal Effect Stove Range Conventional Flue User Manual
Sungale Digital Photo Frame CD806 User Manual
Sybase Microscope Magnifier DC38133 01 0902 01 User Manual