™
VAIO Slimtop LCD
Computer User Guide
PCV-L630
®
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Contents
Manuals .................................................................................................4
Recovery CDs .......................................................................................4
Other ......................................................................................................4
Software CDs ........................................................................................4
Registering Your Computer ......................................................... 13
VAIO Action Setup ........................................................................ 14
Changing the Window Design of Sony Software ..................... 17
Using the Memory Stick® Media................................................. 18
Using PC Cards .............................................................................. 21
Using the Standby Function ......................................................... 23
Standby Mode Indicators..................................................................24
Shutting Down Your Computer .................................................. 24
About the Power Switch ...................................................................25
iii
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Using the Application Recovery CD(s).......................................28
About Your Recovery CDs............................................................33
For Answers to Your Software Questions ..................................34
Troubleshooting .............................................................................36
To Reach Sony ....................................................................................39
Specifications...................................................................................40
Index................................................................................... 43
iv
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Features
✍ For a complete description of the specifications of your Sony computer, see “Specifications”
on page 40.
®
❑
i.LINK (IEEE-1394): Two built-in i.LINK ports provide you with
front and rear digital connection capability. The i.LINK name and
logo identify a digital interface (IEEE-1394) for high speed
communication.
®
❑
❑
Exceptional performance: Your computer includes a fast Intel
processor and a V.90-compatible data/ fax modem.
*
™
Ergo-Angle Multimedia LCD display: With its exclusive dual-
hinge pedestal, this 15" XGA TFT display provides twice the
flexibility of other LCDs. Select the perfect viewing angle and enjoy
®
the built-in Harman/ Kardon stereo speakers.
™
❑
❑
AutoAlert E-mail Notification System: Custom software
®
automatically downloads e-mail on a pre-set schedule via Microsoft
Outlook Express. A light on the LCD display instantly lets you
know when new mail is received.
®
VAIO Smart convertible keyboard: The innovative palm rest
converts to a keyboard cover for a sleek look when not in use. Six
Programmable Power Keys let you launch any application with the
push of a button; dual-sided mouse connections for left- or right-
hand use.
❑
Sony Memory Stick® media slot: The next generation of digital
media, smaller than a stick of gum. Easily delivers information from
one Memory Stick-equipped electronic device to another, so you can
transfer images, sounds, data and text between cameras, computers,
and more.
* Actual upload and download speeds may vary due to line conditions, ISP support, and government
regulations.
1
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Sony VAIO User’s Guide
2
VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide
❑
❑
Compact components: Enjoy the small footprint and versatile setup
options available by positioning the components in an arrangement
of your choice.
Sony audio and video quality: High-fidelity 3D audio system and
high-powered 3D graphics (AGP) enable you to take advantage of
today’s advanced multimedia applications, games, and
entertainment software.
❑
❑
❑
Preinstalled software titles: All the software on your computer is
preinstalled, configured, and ready for you to use right out of the box.
®
®
Microsoft Windows 98 Second Edition operating system: Your
system includes the latest operating system from Microsoft.
Communications: Access popular online services, browse the
Internet, send faxes, and more.
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4
VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide
Manuals
❑
Read Me First contains last-minute supplementary information and
software support numbers.
❑
The VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide (this manual) contains
features and specifications of your computer. It also includes
information on the applications included with your system and how
to contact software vendors, get started with your computer, and
solve common problems.
®
❑
❑
The VA I O Consumer Information Guide contains safety and regulatory
information, ergonomic considerations, information on help
resources, and your computer’s limited warranty statement.
®
®
explains how to use the basic features of the Windows operating
®
system.
Recovery CDs
❑
System Recovery CD(s) – Enables you to reinstall software that
shipped with your computer if it is corrupted or accidentally erased.
For more information, see “Using the System Recovery CD(s)” on
page 26.
❑
Application Recovery CD(s) – Allows you to reinstall individual
applications or device drivers if they are corrupted or accidentally
erased. For more information, see “Using the Application Recovery
CD(s)” on page 28.
Other
❑
❑
Setting up your VAIO Slimtop LCD Computer (poster)
Packet containing special product offers
Software CDs
❑
Microsoft® Word 2000
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Setting Up Your VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer
5
Setting Up Your VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer
Locating Controls and Connectors
Front Panel
FD
DISC
HD
1
Power switch and indicator light
Turns on/ off the computer and the display.
The indicator light is green while the power is on and amber when
the computer is in standby mode.
2
3
4
5
6
Floppy disk drive
Reads/ writes data from/ to a 3.5-inch floppy disk.
Floppy disk eject button
Ejects the floppy disk.
DVD-ROM drive
Reads data from a DVD-ROM/ CD-ROM.
DVD-ROM/CD-ROM eject button
Ejects a DVD-ROM/ CD-ROM.
Manual eject hole
If the DVD-ROM/ CD-ROM does not come out when you press the
DVD-ROM/ CD-ROM eject button, insert a thin, pointed object into
this hole to eject the disc manually.
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6
VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide
FD
DISC
HD
7
FD (Floppy disk drive) access indicator light
Lights in green while reading/ writing data from/ to a floppy disk.
8
9
0
qa
qs
Disc (DVD-ROM drive) access indicator light
Lights in amber while reading data from a DVD-ROM/ CD-ROM.
HD (drive) access indicator light
Lights in green while reading/ writing data from/ to the hard disk.
MIC (Microphone) connector*
Connects a microphone (not supplied).
PHONES (Headphones) connector*
Connects headphones (not supplied).
VOLUME control
Adjusts the volume of the headphones connected to the PHONES
connector. Users should note that this does not control the volume of the
integrated LCD speakers.
qd
qf
PC CARD slot
A PC Card (also called a PCMCIA card) can be installed in this slot. PC
cards enable you to add functionality to your system.
MEMORY STICK media slot
Insert a Sony Memory Stick® card into this slot. See page 18 for details
on using Memory Stick media.
qg
qh
i.LINK (4-pin)
Connects a digital device such as a Sony Digital Handycam Camcorder.
®
USB (Universal Serial Bus) connector
Connects a USB device.
* See “Using a Headphone or Microphone” on page 10 for important information about connecting a
microphone and headphone.
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Setting Up Your VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer
7
Rear Panel
LINE
PHONE
USB
LINE
OUT
I.LINK S400
PRINTER
SERIAL
MONITOR
LCD
KEYBOARD
IN
USB
LINE
OUT
I.LINK S400
PRINTER
SERIAL
MONITOR
LCD
KEYBOARD
IN
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
AC INPUT connector
Connects the supplied power cord.
LINE jack
Connects a phone cable to the wall jack.
EMPTY PCI SLOT (FILLED WITH ETHERNET CARD ON CUSTOM MODELS)
For a PCI Add-On Card (not supplied).
TELEPHONE jack
Connects the phone to the computer.
PRINTER connector
Connects a parallel device, such as a printer or scanner.
SERIAL connector
Connects a serial device, such as a digital still camera.
MONITOR connector
Connects a standard CRT display.
USB (Universal Serial Bus) connector
Connects a USB device.
LINE IN connector
Connects an audio device.
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8
VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide
0
LINE OUT connector
Connects an audio device or an active speaker.
qa
qs
i.LINK (6-pin)
Connects a digital device such as a Sony Digital Handycam
Camcorder.
®
LCD MONITOR connector
Connects the LCD that comes with the VAIO Slimtop LCD computer.
Note: Do not connect any display to this connector other than the LCD
that is supplied with this system.
qd
KEYBOARD connector
Connects a keyboard.
LCD
1
2
Power indicator light
Light is green while the power is on. When the computer enters the
standby mode, this indicator light turns amber.
Information LED
Light turns red to alert the user to activities, such as the arrival of
e-mail. See “AutoAlert E-mail Notification System” on page 15.
3
4
Brightness control
Adjusts the brightness of the screen.
Volume control
Adjusts the volume of the integrated speakers on the LCD display.
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Setting Up Your VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer
9
Using the Wheel Mouse
For information about the Wheel Mouse that connects to either side of
your keyboard, see MouseWare Help. To access MouseWare Help, from
the Start menu, point to Programs, MouseWare, and then click
MouseWare Help.
To set up the mouse for left-handed use:
1
2
Click the My Computer icon on your desktop.
Click Control Panel, and then click Mouse. The Mouse Properties
dialog box appears.
3
4
5
6
7
In the Quick Setup tab, click Device Setup.
In the Device Setup Wizard dialog box, click Next.
Select the radio button next to “Left side of the keyboard.”
Click Next three times, and then click Finish.
Click Apply.
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10 VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide
Using a Headphone or Microphone
When you connect a microphone or headphone to your computer,
attaching a ferrite core will reduce electrical interference. Attach the
(supplied) ferrite core at the end of the headphone or microphone cable
closest to the computer. Wrap the cable through the center of the ferrite
core. The following illustration shows how to attach the ferrite core when
you are using both a headphone and a microphone.
Microphone and
headphone cables
Ferrite core
Plugs connected to
the computer
✍ The LCD and keyboard cables already include a ferrite core. Do not remove the ferrite core
from these cables.
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Setting Up Your VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer
11
To adjust the height and viewing angle of the display
Holding both sides of the display, push the display panel out and up, and
then adjust the viewing angle.
✍ The LCD display is designed to maintain the best ergonomic viewing angle.
Set the display height so that it does not touch the keyboard, and adjust
the viewing angle approximately 27 degrees from eye level to the center
of the screen.
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12 VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide
Attaching the Stand to the System Unit
The main system unit can be oriented horizontally or vertically. If you
place the system in a vertical position, you must attach the supplied stand
to ensure stability.
1
Place the system unit on its right side, with the front of the system
facing forward.
2
Insert the grooved side of the stand into the ventilation holes of the
system so that the two screw holes are aligned and the stand’s fins are
at the rear of the unit.
3
Secure the stand to the unit with the supplied screw.
✍ The stand keeps the system cool by allowing air to flow under it. If you choose to place the
system unit in a vertical position, it is important to use the stand and to place the system unit
on its left side, as in the illustration above; otherwise, the system may overheat.
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Registering Your Computer
13
Registering Your Computer
Take advantage of Sony’s commitment to quality customer support and
receive these benefits by registering your computer:
❑
Sony Customer Support—Talk to a Support Representative to
troubleshoot problems you may be having with your computer.
❑
Limited warranty—Protect your investment. See “Limited Warranty
Statement” in the VA I O Consumer Information Guide for details.
®
✍ You must register your computer to extend the warranty from the initial 90-day warranty
period to one year from the original date of purchase.
❑
Express Service—Provides a fast and direct return of your VAIO
Slimtop™ LCD Computer to Sony for service of your computer.
If you did not already register when you first turned on your computer,
follow these steps to use the computer online registration service.
1
2
Click the registration icon on the VAIO desktop.
Enter the information requested on the first online registration form.
Press the Tab key to move from box to box.
3
4
Click the Next button to advance to the next form.
Complete the remaining forms by clicking the Next button each time
you complete a form.
The computer automatically transfers your registration information
using your built-in modem and a toll-free telephone number or a
local number.
You may sign up for Internet access with a Sony preferred Internet
Service Provider.
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14 VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide
VAIO Action Setup
VAIO Action Setup manages the settings for your computer's
®
Programmable Power Keys (PPK), Memory Stick media, i.LINK
interface, and internal timer. An overview of each of these functions is
provided below. For more information on changing the settings using
VAIO Action Setup, see the online VAIO Action Setup help files. To access
the help files, from the Start menu, point to Programs/ VAIO Action
Setup/ VAIO Action Setup Help.
Programmable Power Keys
Your Sony computer comes with technology that allows you to get to
your favorite applications easily. Each Programmable Power Key (PPK)
on your VAIO Smart convertible keyboard comes programmed to launch
a preset application with a single press of the key. If you wish, you can
use the VAIO Action Setup software to change the Programmable Power
Keys’ preset functions.
The Programmable Power Keys are located at the top of your keyboard,
and are numbered P1 through P6. The keys work even when the
computer is turned off. Pressing one of these keys turns on the computer
and launches the preset application.
The six Programmable Power Keys come to you preprogrammed to
perform the functions listed in the table below.
Key
Function
Starts Microsoft Internet Explorer for Windows 98.
®
®
P1 (INTERNET)
P2 (MAIL)
P3 (WORK)
P4 (FINANCE)
P5 (SETUP)
P6 (HELP)
®
®
Starts Microsoft Outlook Express
®
Starts Microsoft Word
®
®
Starts Intuit Quicken Basic 2000.
Starts PPK Setup.
Opens a menu of help options.
Memory Stick
You can use VAIO Action Setup to preset your computer to automatically
launch an application when you insert a Memory Stick. For more
®
information on Memory Stick media, see “Using Memory Stick Media”
on page 18.
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VAIO Action Setup
15
Internal Timer
The VAIO Action Setup software allows you to set your computer’s
internal timer to launch certain applications automatically. The timer can
start applications even when the power is off.
✍ Some software applications take longer than others to launch. It is advisable to confirm in
advance the amount of time your selected application takes to start.
AutoAlert E-mail Notification System
VAIO Action Setup also enables you to set up your computer to notify
you with an
Information LED when new mail arrives in your e-mail
mailbox. The Information LED turns red to indicate that new e-mail has
arrived. For this AutoAlert E-mail Notification System to work, you must
®
®
use Microsoft Outlook Express as your default e-mail software, and
you must have an Internet Service Provider with dial-up capabilities
set up.
As an alternative, you can program your AutoAlert E-mail Notification
completed the task of dialing up and connecting to receive mail. In this
case, the Information LED turns on to indicate that your e-mail account
has been accessed successfully, regardless of whether or not you have
mail; this works with Microsoft Outlook Express.
✍ The e-mail software you choose to use with PPK must be set as your default e-mail software.
See “LCD” on page 8 for an illustration showing the Information LED’s
location.
AutoAlert E-mail Notification System Software Restrictions
If you use software that uses a phone line
❑
The computer may not be able to disconnect the phone line due to
communication and server conditions.
❑
Be sure to monitor the status of the software when running the
AutoAlert E-mail Notification System, and manually disconnect the
phone line if you notice a malfunction. Furthermore, when using the
timer to start the software, it is advised that you set the computer to
shut down or enter system standby mode after a certain length of
time. This allows the computer to disconnect the phone line if the
computer fails to disconnect the line normally.
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16 VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide
If you are using the timer to download e-mail automatically
It is advisable to set up your e-mail software to redial automatically if it
does not connect the first time. It is also advisable to set the e-mail
software to disconnect the phone line automatically when all mail has
been downloaded.
®
®
If you are using Microsoft Outlook Express
When using the AutoAlert E-mail Notification System with Microsoft
Outlook Express, it is advisable to select the Dial automatically setting in
your Microsoft Outlook Express software. If you have not chosen this
setting and wish to do so, start Outlook Express, click Tools, and then
select Options. Select the check box “Automatically dial when checking
for new messages.” Click OK.
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Changing the Window Design of Sony Software
17
Changing the Window Design of Sony Software
To change the window design of Sony software
1
2
3
4
Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.
Click UI Design Selector.
Click << or >> and select the desired design.
Click Apply.
The “UI Design Selector” window design changes. The window design
for your Sony software will match the “UI Design Selector” window.
To try another selection, click << or >>. Then, click OK.
The UI Design Selector closes and the window design of your Sony
software window design displays.
✍ Note: You may use the feature with UI Design Selector-compatible software only.
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18 VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide
®
Using the Memory Stick Media
Your Sony computer is designed to support the new Memory Stick
recording media. The Memory Stick media is a small, versatile device
that allows you to share data between various types of Sony equipment.
✍ When you use the card, your computer automatically launches Windows Explorer. This allows
you to view the contents of the card.
If the image files are created by a Sony digital camera or camcorder, you
do not need the following steps.
If you want to create a slide show that launches automatically when you
insert a Memory Stick, follow these steps to transfer images from your
hard drive to a Memory Stick.
1
2
3
4
5
6
Insert the Memory Stick into the appropriate slot.
Click the My Computer icon on the desktop.
Click the Removable Disk S: icon.
Create a new folder and name it “DCIM.”
Open the DCIM folder and create a new folder named “100MSDCF.”
Click the Start button, select VAIO, and then click PictureGear to
launch the PictureGear application.
7
Select the digital images you want to save in your slide show.
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Using the Memory Stick® Media
19
8
9
From the PictureGear File menu, point to File Process, and then select
Still Format Conversion.
Select Memory Stick as the Output Format.
10 Use the Browse button to select the DCIM/ 100MSDCF folder on the
Removable Disk (S:) drive.
11 Name the file. The file name must begin with DSC (DSC0xxxx). The
full file name without extension must have at least eight characters.
The order in which your photos appear in your slide show will be
determined by the number (xxxx) in the file name. Some examples of
acceptable file names are DSC00001.jpg and DSC00002.jpg
12 Click OK to save the file.
You can also add MPEG1 video files to your Slide Show by following the
steps below. The order in which your video clips (MOV0xxxx files)
appear in your Slide Show is determined by the number (xxxx) in the file
name.
1
2
3
4
5
Insert the Memory Stick into the media slot.
Click the My Computer icon on the desktop.
Click the Removable Disk S: icon.
Create a new folder and name it “MSSONY.”
Open the MSSONY folder and create a new folder named
“MOML0001.”
6
From the PictureGear File menu, point to File Process, and then select
Still Format Conversion.
7
8
Copy the MPEG file into the MOML0001 folder.
Rename the MPEG file MOV0xxxx.mpg, where xxxx is any four-digit
number.
9
To begin showing your slides, eject the Memory Stick and then
reinsert it. The slide show will begin automatically.
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20 VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide
To protect data on Memory Stick media from accidental changes
Memory Stick media contains a write-protect tab. The write-protect tab
prevents accidental changes to information recorded on the Memory
Stick media. When you slide the write-protect tab to the LOCK position,
the Memory Stick is write-protected, which means you cannot delete,
copy, or save information on the Memory Stick. When you slide the tab
to the un-LOCK position, you can write to or modify the Memory Stick
contents.
To unlock
To lock
LOCK
LOCK
LOCK
To change the way the computer responds when a Memory Stick is inserted
into the Memory Stick media slot
Change the options on the Memory Stick tab in the PPK Setup software.
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Using PC Cards
21
Using PC Cards
This computer has a card bus PC card slot that supports a Type I or II PC
card.
To insert a PC card
✍ You do not need to shut down your computer when inserting a PC card.
1
Open the front panel.
2
Insert the PC card into the PC card slot until it clicks into position.
✍ When the card is completely inserted, the eject button pops out. If you cannot insert the card,
do not forcibly insert it. In this case, make sure the card is not inserted upside-down or
backward, and then reinsert the card into the slot carefully.
See the manual that came with the PC card for details on using it.
To close the front panel when the eject button is protruding, fold the button down onto the
computer.
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22 VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide
To eject a PC card
✍ If you eject the PC card incorrectly, the system may not work correctly.
®
1
Click the Start button on the Windows taskbar, click Settings, and
then click Control Panel.
2
3
4
Click the PC Card icon.
Click the name of the card that you want to eject, and then click Stop.
When the message “You may safely remove this device” appears,
click OK.
5
Push the PC card eject button on the front panel of the system unit.
You may need to pull out the eject button before you can eject the
card.
The card is ejected from the card connector. Remove the card by holding it
by its edge and pulling it out carefully.
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Using the Standby Function
23
Using the Standby Function
When you are finished using your computer, you can put it in standby
mode rather than turn it off completely. Putting the computer in standby
mode allows you to return quickly to normal computer use.
To put the computer in standby mode manually
1
2
Save your work and close any applications that are running. (You can
leave Windows running.)
Press the
(Standby) button on the top of the keyboard.
The computer goes into standby mode.
®
Alternatively, you can click the Start button on the Windows taskbar,
click Shut Down, select Standby, and then click OK.
To let the computer go into standby mode automatically
Click the My Computer icon on your desktop. Click Control Panel, and
then click the Power Management icon. On the Power Schemes tab, select
from the options in the Power schemes drop-down list. Then, choose
settings for the power scheme you have selected. To save the settings
under a name that is not offered in the Power schemes pulldown menu,
choose your settings and then click Save As. Type in a name, and click
OK. Click Apply to finalize your power settings.
To resume from standby mode
There are three ways to bring your computer back from the standby
mode: press the space bar on your keyboard, press the left mouse button,
or momentarily depress the power button on your computer.
✍ If the display does not return from standby when you press the
(Standby) button, your
system may be in video standby mode. Press the space bar on the keyboard to return from
video standby.
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24 VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide
Standby Mode Indicators
You can tell which mode the computer is in by the color of the power
indicator light.
Color
Mode
Amber
Green
Computer is in standby mode.
Computer is out of standby mode, ready to use.
Computer is turned off.
No color
✍ In standby mode you may periodically hear the computer’s fan turn on and off, depending on
the room’s temperature. This is normal functioning in standby mode.
Shutting Down Your Computer
When you are ready to turn off your computer for an extended period of
!
To avoid the potential loss of data, do not use the power switch to shut down
the computer.
To shut down your computer
✍ If you plan to shut down your computer for a short period of time, you may want to use
standby mode instead. See “Using the Standby Function” on page 23.
®
1
Click the Start button on the Windows taskbar to open the Start
menu.
2
3
4
Click Shut Down to display the Shut Down Windows dialog box.
Select the Shut Down option.
Click OK to complete the shutdown process.
✍ Respond to any prompts about saving documents.
5
6
Wait for your computer to turn off automatically — the power
indicator light turns off.
Turn off any peripherals connected to your computer. The LCD
display turns off automatically when the computer shuts down.
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Shutting Down Your Computer
25
✍ You can also shut down your computer using the
(Power) button on the keyboard.
Pressing this button causes the system to perform a shutdown but does not give you any of
®
the other options available on the Windows Shut Down menu.
About the Power Switch
If your system “locks up” or “crashes,” press and hold the power switch
for four seconds to force your system to power off. You may need to
repeat this procedure. See “Locating Controls and Connectors” on page 5
for the power switch’s location.
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26 VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide
Using the System Recovery CD(s)
You can reinstall software titles that shipped with your computer if they
are corrupted or accidentally erased. You may not need to recover the
entire contents of your hard drive. If you experience a problem with your
computer, reinstalling an individual device driver or software title may
correct the problem.
Use the Application Recovery CD(s) to reinstall individual applications
or device drivers. See “Using the Application Recovery CD(s)” on
page 28.
The System Recovery CD(s) contain a backup copy of all the software
originally installed on your hard disk drive. They can be used only to
recover the hard disk of the Sony computer you purchased.
The System Recovery utility gives you three options:
❑
❑
Full Restore without Format restores all the software titles that
originally came with your computer without formatting the hard
disk.
Full Restore with Format formats the hard disk drive and then
restores all the original software. If your hard drive is partitioned into
C and D drives, the computer will offer you the option to reformat
the drive into a single partition.
®
❑
Operating System Only (Windows 98 Restore with Format) formats
®
the hard disk drive and restores the Windows operating system and
the device drivers that shipped with your computer. This option is
recommended for advanced users only.
! If you choose the Full Restore with Format or Operating System Only option,
your hard disk will be formatted, which removes all the information on the hard
disk drive. You will lose any software you have installed and any other files you
have created since you started to use your computer. This means you will have
to reinstall any applications that were not included with the computer when you
purchased it. If you choose the Full Restore without Format option, you may
need to reinstall applications that were not included with the computer when
you purchased it. If you have any questions on using the System Recovery CD(s),
contact Sony Customer Support.
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Using the System Recovery CD(s)
27
To use the System Recovery CD(s)
CD(s).
1
Insert the Sony System Recovery CD in the DVD-ROM drive.
✍ The System Recovery utility boots from the DVD-ROM drive. It must be in the drive when
you turn on the computer.
2
Shut down your computer as described in “Shutting Down Your
Computer” on page 24.
3
4
Wait 30 seconds and turn on your computer.
Click OK to signify you have read and accept the Microsoft End-User
License Agreement.
5
When the System Recovery menu appears, follow the on-screen
instructions to complete the recovery process.
✍ Your system may include one or two System Recovery CDs. If you have two System Recovery
CDs, insert the first CD to run the System Recovery program. You are prompted to insert the
second CD once the information from the first CD has been installed.
The recovery process takes 30 to 60 minutes to complete.
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28 VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide
The Application Recovery CD(s) allow you to reinstall individual
applications and device drivers if they are corrupted or accidentally
erased. Reinstalling an individual device driver or software title may
correct a problem you are experiencing with your computer, and you may
not need to recover the entire contents of your hard drive. If you do need
to reinstall all the software titles that shipped with your computer, use the
System Recovery CD(s). See “Using the System Recovery CD(s)” on
page 26.
You must be in Windows to run the Application Recovery CD(s). The
application will not run from DOS. If you have any questions on using
the Application Recovery CD(s), contact Sony Customer Support.
To use the Application Recovery CD(s)
1
2
Turn on your computer. If your computer is already on, close all
applications.
When the Windows desktop appears, insert the Sony Application
Recovery CD in the DVD-ROM drive. The Application Recovery
utility loads automatically.
3
When the Application Recovery menu appears, follow the on-screen
instructions to complete the recovery process.
✍ Your system may include one or two Application Recovery CDs. If you have two Application
Recovery CDs, insert the first CD to run the Application Recovery program. You may be
prompted to insert the second CD, depending on the application you wish to restore.
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About the Software on Your Computer
29
About the Software on Your Computer
Your VAIO Slimtop computer is ready to help you work, play, learn, and
communicate as soon as you turn it on. This section gives you an
overview of the activities you can perform with your software titles. For
support information, see “For Answers to Your Software Questions” on
page 34.
®
Adobe Acrobat Reader
Adobe Systems Incorporated
Acrobat Reader software allows you to view, navigate, and print electronic
documents in Adobe’s Portable Document Format (PDF), an open file format that
is intended to preserve the fidelity of documents created on all major computer
platforms.
®
Adobe PhotoDeluxe Home Edition
Adobe Systems Incorporated
Create amazing photo effects with PhotoDeluxe. Without learning complex
software, you can enhance, restore, and be creative with your photos. Includes
built-in guided activities, stock photos, clip art, and templates to assist you.
®
Adobe Premiere LE
Adobe Systems Incorporated
Adobe Premiere LE offers an interface and editing tool for producing movies
for video, multimedia, or the Web. View source clips and edited footage
simultaneously in the monitor window. Create video clips up to three hours long
with complete audio-video synchronization.
®
America Online
America Online
America Online is the world's most popular Internet online service. Stay in touch
with family and friends with Easy-to-Use E-mail, manage your personal finances,
get the latest news and sports scores, and chat with thousands of others who share
your interests.
®
AT&T WorldNet Service
AT&T
Fast, reliable Internet access from AT&T WorldNet Service. AT&T WorldNet
Service provides Web-based e-mail, a personalized start page from Excite, easy
access to the Excite search engine, free Web pages, online and live agent technical
support, instant messaging, and special shopping discounts at Market Square.
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30 VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide
®
CompuServe 2000
CompuServe Interactive Services
The all new CompuServe 2000 delivers a powerful tool for Internet users who
want serious and timely information, in-depth research, and professional
communities backed by state-of-the-art technologies, including high-speed access
and powerful e-mail messaging.
Digital Media Bar™
Sony Electronics
Media Bar software is your all-in-one solution for audio/ video playback. It
handles all common computer multimedia formats, and controls selected Sony
devices. Media Bar software encompasses audio/ video library cataloging and
playlist management, in addition to digital video quality control and effects
features.
DVgate™
Sony Electronics
Connect a digital video camera recorder to the i.LINK connector and capture your
own video clips. You can edit the clips from your video, add others, and combine
clips into new movie segments.
EarthLink TotalAccess™
EarthLink Network, Inc.
An Internet Service Provider that supplies access, information, and assistance to
its customers, introducing them to the Internet. Member benefits include e-mail,
newsgroups, a Personal Start Page, a free 6 MB web site, a member magazine, and
24-hour technical support.
®
McAfee’s VirusScan
Network Associates, Inc.
Protect your computer from viruses. VirusScan can detect viruses from floppy
disks, Internet downloads, e-mail attachments, intranets, shared files, CD-ROMs,
and online services.
®
®
Microsoft Internet Explorer for Windows 98
Microsoft Corporation
Internet Explorer delivers the Web the way you want it. It's safe, easy to use, and
you can personalize how you access the Web. Outlook Express and other tools in
Internet Explorer also help you have a great experience when you are on the Web!
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About the Software on Your Computer
31
®
®
Microsoft Outlook Express
Microsoft Corporation
Outlook Express, the messaging tool that takes your e-mail and newsgroup
communications to new heights! Outlook Express is easy to set up and use, and
provides you with secure, personalized, and complete features that make
creating, sending, and reading your e-mail a more rich and dynamic experience.
®
Microsoft Word 2000
Microsoft Corporation
Microsoft Word 2000 makes it easy to create common Web, e-mail, and print
documents for use around the world. It embraces HTML as a first-class file format
and extends Word's ease-of-use to the Web and e-mail. Word 2000 also extends
that ease of use to international users, making it easy to create multilingual
documents.
®
Netscape Communicator
Netscape Communications
Netscape Communicator is the all-in-one Internet tool that makes it easy to
browse the Web, send Internet e-mail, chat, read newsgroups, and compose great
Web documents.
PictureGear™
Sony Electronics
This image management software displays images from your hard drive, a Sony
®
digital still camera, or a Sony Mavica camera. The images appear in a convenient
light-table format, so that you can easily view the contents of an entire folder.
Prodigy Internet™
Prodigy Communications Corporation
An Internet service that helps you find what you need online faster and smarter.
Prodigy delivers powerful online content, such as sports scores, stock quotes,
news, and easy access to Excite™, plus a personal e-mail account and quality
customer service, all at a competitive price.
®
Quicken Basic
Intuit, Inc.
Quicken is the fastest, easiest way to organize your finances. Quicken works just
like your checkbook, so it's easy to learn and use. Quicken manages all of your
finances, bank accounts, credit cards, investments, and loans. You can even pay
your bills online.
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32 VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide
Smart Capture
Sony Electronics
Smart Capture is a fun new way to send multimedia messages via e-mail. Smart
Capture manages the i.LINK connection between your computer and a Sony
®
Digital Handycam Camcorder or other cameras that support the i.LINK
interface. It allows you to capture and compress video or still images that you can
save or share via e-mail. A smart solution to computer, digital audio/ video, and
network convergence.
Smart Connect
Sony Electronics
Smart Connect allows you to use an i.LINK cable to connect your VAIO computer
to another VAIO computer that supports Smart Connect. You can then use one
computer to copy, delete, and edit files on the other computer. You can also print
from a printer attached to either computer.
®
Sound Forge
Sonic Foundry
Sound Forge allows you to put powerful audio processing tools and effects to
work on your desktop. Simply cut, copy, and paste your way to striking
multimedia files for use in everything from Web pages to desktop presentations.
VAIO Action Setup
Sony Electronics
VAIO Action Setup manages the settings for your computer’s Programmable
Power Keys (PPK), Memory Stick media, i.LINK interface, and internal timer. For
more information, see “VAIO Action Setup” on page 14.
®
WinFax Basic Edition
Symantec Corporation
WinFax Basic Edition incorporates an easy-to-use interface that allows you to
send and receive faxes easily. Upgrade to WinFax Pro to receive additional
features.
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About Your Recovery CDs
33
About Your Recovery CDs
Application Recovery CD(s)
Sony Electronics
The Application Recovery CD program allows you to reinstall individual
applications and device drivers. Use it to restore corrupted or accidentally erased
files.
System Recovery CD(s)
Sony Electronics
The System Recovery CD program allows you to restore the software titles that
shipped with your computer if they become corrupted or are erased accidentally.
It can be used only to restore the hard disk of the Sony computer you purchased.
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34 VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide
For Answers to Your Software Questions
®
®
Acrobat Reader, Adobe PhotoDeluxe Home Edition
(Adobe Systems Incorporated)
Web site
phone
fax
http:/ / www.adobe.com/
206-628-2746 (fee-based support)
206-628-5737
e-mail
hours
techdocs@adobe.com
M-F, 6 AM-5 PM PT
®
America Online (America Online)
Web site
phone
hours
http:/ / www.aol.com/
800-827-3338
7 days a week, 6 AM - 2 PM ET
®
AT&T WorldNet Service (AT&T)
Web site
phone
e-mail
hours
http:/ / www.att.net
800-400-1447
worldnet@attmail.com
7 days a week, 24 hours a day
®
CompuServe 2000 (CompuServe Interactive Services)
Web site
phone
hours
http:/ / www.compuserve.com/
800-848-8990
M-F, 8 AM - 1 AM ET, S-S 10 AM - 10 PM ET
™
EarthLink TotalAccess (EarthLink Network, Inc.)
Web site
phone
e-mail
hours
http:/ / help.earthlink.net/ techsupport/
800-395-8410
support@earthlink.net
7 days a week, 24 hours a day
GTE Easy Sign-up (GTE Internet)
phone
hours
800-927-3000
7 days a week, 24 hours a day
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For Answers to Your Software Questions
35
McAfee’s VirusScan (Network Associates, Inc.)
Web site
phone
e-mail
hours
http:/ / support.mcafee.com
408-988-3832
cybr@nai.com
M - F 9 AM - 5 PM Central Time
MindSpring Internet Desktop (MindSpring Enterprises, Inc.)
Web site
phone
http:/ / help.mindspring.com/ support
800-719-4660
®
Quicken Basic (Intuit Inc.)
Web site
phone
hours
http:/ / www.intuit.com/ support
900-555-4688
7 days a week, 24 hours a day
®
Sound Forge (Sonic Foundry)
Web site
phone
fax
http:/ / www.sonicfoundry.com/ support/
608-256-5555
608-256-7300
e-mail
hours
support@sonicfoundry.com
M - F, 8 AM - 7 PM CT
®
®
Windows 98 Second Edition Operating System, Word 2000,
®
Internet Explorer 5, Outlook Express (Microsoft Corporation)
Web site
phone
hours
http:/ / www. sony.com/ pcsupport
*
888-4SONYPC (888-476-6972)
7 days a week, 24 hours a day
* Support from 1-888-4SONYPC is free of charge for 90 days after the original date of purchase.
®
WinFax Basic Edition (Symantec Corporation)
Web site
phone
fax
http:/ / www.symantec.com/ techsupp/
800-798-0850
800-554-4403 in North America
541-984-2490 outside North America
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36 VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide
Troubleshooting
This section describes how to solve common problems you may
encounter when using your computer. Many problems have simple
solutions, so try these suggestions before you call Sony Customer
Support.
My computer does not start
❑
Check that the computer is plugged into a power source and that it is
turned on. Check that the power light is lit on the front panel of the
computer.
❑
❑
❑
Confirm that a diskette is not in the diskette drive (unless you are
using a bootable diskette).
Confirm that the power cord and all cables are connected firmly, as
described on the color poster.
If you plugged the computer into a power strip or UPS, make sure the
power strip or UPS is turned on and working.
My computer or software program “locks up”
❑
Close the application that is currently “locked up” by pressing
Ctrl+Alt+Delete. In the Close Program dialog box, scroll down until
you locate “(Not responding)” next to an application. Select this
application and click End Task. Windows attempts to close the
application. If the attempt is unsuccessful, a second dialog box
appears. Select End Task again.
❑
❑
❑
If you are unable to “unlock” the application, repeat the above steps
but select Shut Down when the Close Program dialog box appears.
If the above steps fail to “unlock” your computer, save any unsaved
work, if possible. Press Alt+F4. Select Restart and click OK.
If you cannot restart as described in the preceding steps, you can
restart the computer by pressing Ctrl+Alt+Delete or by pressing the
power switch for more than six seconds.
✍ Pressing Ctrl+Alt+Delete may result in the loss of changes made to files that are
currently open.
❑
Contact the software publisher or designated provider for technical
support. See “For Answers to Your Software Questions” on page 34
for a list of phone numbers and Web addresses or see Read Me First.
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Troubleshooting
37
My DVD-ROM/CD-ROM drive tray does not open
❑
❑
Make sure the computer is turned on.
If the Eject button does not work, you can open the tray by inserting a
straightened heavyweight paper clip into the emergency eject hole.
When I click an application icon, a message such as “You must insert the
application CD into your CD-ROM (DVD-ROM) drive” appears and the
software does not start
❑
Some titles require specific files that are located on the application’s
DVD-ROM/ CD-ROM. Insert the disc and try starting the program
again.
❑
Check to make sure you inserted the DVD-ROM/ CD-ROM with the
label side facing up.
My modem connection is slow
The computer’s modem uses K56flex™ technology/ V.90. Many factors
influence modem connection speed, including telephone line noise or
compatibility with telephone equipment (such as fax machines or other
modems). If you think your modem is not connecting properly to other
computer-based modems, fax machines, or your Internet Service
Provider, check the following:
❑
Have your phone company check that your phone line is free from
any line noise.
❑
If your problem is fax-related, check that there are no problems with
the fax machine you are calling. The modem that receives your call
may be slower or may use a different communications protocol than
your modem. If this is the case, the connection speed may be slower
than expected.
❑
❑
❑
For optimum performance, ensure you are calling an Internet Service
Provider number that is V.90-compliant.
If you are having a problem connecting with your Internet Service
Provider, check that the ISP is not experiencing technical problems.
If you have a second phone line available, try connecting the modem
to this line.
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38 VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide
My modem does not work
❑
❑
Check that the phone line is plugged into the line jack.
Check that the phone line is working. You can check the line by
plugging in an ordinary phone and listening for a dial tone.
❑
❑
Check that the phone number the program is dialing is correct.
Verify that the software you are using is appropriately configured to
recognize and interact with the Sony computer modem. Call the
software publisher if you do not know how to configure the software
to recognize the modem. All programs preinstalled by Sony are
compatible.
❑
If you suspect your modem is not functioning, you can perform a
simple test to find out. Click the My Computer icon on your desktop.
Click Control Panel, and then click Modems. Click the Diagnostics
tab and select COM2. Click More Info. If your modem is functioning,
a More Info dialog box will display. If your modem is not functioning,
an error message will appear.
My microphone is too sensitive to background noise
If you find there is too much background noise when you record sound,
you should adjust the microphone gain by following these steps:
®
1
Right-click the speaker icon (Volume) in the lower-right Windows
task tray.
2
3
Click Open Volume Controls. The Volume Control screen appears.
In the Options menu, select Properties. The Properties screen
appears.
4
5
6
7
Change the setting for “Adjust volume for” from Playback to
Recording, and then click OK.
Click the Advanced button under Microphone Balance. The
Advanced Controls for Microphone screen appears.
Deselect the check box for 1 Mic Gain (+20dB), then click the Close
button.
Close the Recording Control window.
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Troubleshooting
39
My mouse does not work
®
❑
Check that the mouse is plugged into one of the PS/ 2 connectors on
the keyboard. The other connector connects the keyboard to the
computer.
❑
There may be dust or dirt inside the mouse mechanism. To clean the
mouse, follow these steps:
❑
Turn off your computer. See “Shutting Down Your Computer” on
page 24 for details.
❑
Remove the mouse ball cover on the back of the mouse by
turning the ring that covers the mouse ball counter-clockwise.
❑
❑
Turn the mouse upright, and drop the mouse ball into your hand.
Using a piece of tape, remove any dust or dirt on the mouse ball
and inside the mouse ball socket.
❑
Return the mouse ball to the socket, and replace the mouse ball
cover. Secure the cover by turning the ring clockwise.
®
I cannot find the Windows taskbar
❑
❑
Check that the taskbar is not hidden or shrunken.
Use the mouse to point to the left, right, top, and bottom edges of the
screen.
✍ See Read Me First for additional information on using your Sony computer.
To Reach Sony
For further assistance, call 1-888-4SONYPC (1-888-476-6972).
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40 VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide
Specifications
Model
PCV-L630
600E MHz* Pentium® III
17 GB† Ultra DMA
Processor
Hard Disk Drive
Standard SDRAM
Video RAM
Graphics
128 MB PC-100 SDRAM, expandable to 256 MB
8 MB SDRAM
2X AGP 3D graphics hardware acceleration
(ATi Rage™ 128 Pro 4XL)
Sound Capabilities
Diskette Drive
High fidelity 3D PCI audio Aureal AU8810
3.5” 1.44 MB FDD
DVD-ROM/CD-ROM Drive
4.8X (max.) DVD-ROM reading
**
24X (max.) CD-ROM reading
Modem
K56flex technology/ V.90 compatible
data/ fax modem††
Expansion Capabilities
Two PCI slots
Connection Capabilities
(Front)
PC card (Card bus support)
USB port
Microphone
Headphone
Memory Stick media slot
i.LINK (4-pin)
Connection Capabilities
(Rear)
USB port
Modem line (RJ-11)
Phone line (RJ-11)
Parallel (printer)
Serial port
VGA monitor
LCD display
Line In
Line Out
Keyboard
i.LINK (6-pin)
Connection Capabilities
(Keyboard)
Mouse (PS/ 2-style)
left and right connectors
Supplied Accessories
Stand (for vertical installation)
Power cable
Phone cable
Keyboard cable
PS/ 2 Wheel Mouse
VAIO Smart™ Convertible Keyboard
Spacers (for bottom of the system)
Ferrite core
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Specifications
41
Model
Service
PCV-L630
90-day limited express service***
Extendible to one year from original
date of purchase upon registration
Limited Warranty
90-day parts/ labor standard††
Extendible to one year from original
date of purchase upon registration
Power Requirements
Dimensions
130 watts maximum
CPU: 11.2”(w) x 3.6” (h) x 13.4” (d)
(280 mm x 90 mm x 335 mm)
Keyboard: 15.9” (w) x 1.8” (h) x 7.1” (d)
(398 mm x 45 mm x 178 mm)
Display: 16.1” (w) x 13.1” (h) x 6.9” (d)
(403 mm x 327 mm x 172 mm)
Weight
CPU: 11.9 lbs. (5.4kg)
Display: 7.05 lbs (3.2 kg)
Keyboard: 2.9 lbs. (1.3kg)
Operating Temperature
50º F to 95º F (+10º C to 35º C)
* MHz denotes microprocessor internal clock speed; other factors may affect application performance.
† GB means one billion bytes when referring to hard drive capacity. Accessible capacity may vary.
**Data on a DVD-ROM is read at a variable transfer rate, ranging from 2X at the innermost track to 4.8X at
the outermost track(the data transfer standard 1X rate is 1385 kbytes/s). The average data transfer rate
is 3.6X(4986 kbytes/s). Data on a CD-ROM is read at a variable transfer rate, ranging from 10.5X at the
innermost track to 24X at the outermost track(the data transfer standard 1X rate is 150 kbytes/s). The
average data transfer is 18X(2700 kbytes/s).
†† Maximum speed for faxing is 14.4 kbytes/s. Your modem is capable of downloading at 56 kbytes/s using
K56flex technology or V.90. Your phone service, online service, or Internet Service Provider, however, may
not support this technology or operate at this speed.
***Certain restrictions apply.
Specifications are subject to change without notice.
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42
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Index
A
L
AC input connector 7
Application Recovery CD 28
adjusting 11
connector 8
B
brightness control, on LCD 8
C
line OUT connector 8
CD-ROM drive 5
M
CD-ROM, troubleshooting 37
cleaning, mouse 39
computer, troubleshooting 36
using 18
E
microphone connector 6
eject button, for floppy disk 5
eject hole, for CD-ROM 5
monitor connector 7
mouse
F
ferrite core (pictured) 3
ferrite core, connecting 10
floppy disk drive 5
troubleshooting 39
mouse (pictured) 3
H
headphones connector 6
using 10
phone cable (pictured) 3
power cable (pictured) 3
power indicator
I
Information LED, on LCD 8
on LCD 8
K
on system unit 5
power switch 5
keyboard
(pictured) 3
cable (pictured) 3
connector 8
printer connector 7
problem solving 36
Programmable Power Keys (PPK),
using 14
43
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44 VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide
R
registering your computer 13
S
serial connector 7
software, bundled 29
software, support contact numbers 34
spacers (pictured) 3
stand
(pictured) 3
attaching 12
standby mode 23
System Recovery CD 26
system unit (pictured) 3
T
telephone jack 7
troubleshooting 36
turning on and off the computer 5, 24,
36
U
Universal Serial Bus (USB) connector 6,
7
unpacking the computer 3
unpacking, system (pictured) 3
V
VAIO Action Setup 14
volume control for headphones 6
volume control, on LCD 8
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