Page 1: Table Of Contents
Welcome...7 Using Your VAIO Notebook...9 Using the Keyboard...10 Functions of the keyboard keys ...11 Combinations and functions with the Windows key ...12 Indicators ...13 Indicator lights ...13 Combinations and functions with the Fn key ...14 Using the Touchpad ...16 Using the Floppy Disk Drive ...18 To insert a floppy disk ...18 To remove a floppy disk ...18 To remove the floppy disk drive...19...
Page 2 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Using the Weight Saver ... 34 To attach the weight saver ... 34 To remove the weight saver ... 34 Using Power Saving Modes... 36 Normal mode... 36 Standby mode... 36 Hibernate mode ...
Page 3 Wireless LAN Access Point ...61 Wireless LAN PC Card...62 Customizing Your VAIO Notebook ...63 Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen ...64 To display the Sony Notebook Setup screen ...64 Sony Notebook Setup Tabs...65 Controlling Power Management ...66 To view the Power Management status icons...66 Power Management profiles ...67...
Page 4 73 Selecting the Display Mode ... 74 To select the display mode... 74 To change the Window Design of Sony software... 76 Adding Memory to Your VAIO Notebook 77 Precautions and Procedures ... 78 Typical expansion memory configuration ... 78 Removing a Memory Module...
Page 5 Troubleshooting ...101 Troubleshooting Your Notebook ...102 My notebook does not start...102 My notebook starts, but a BIOS error is displayed...102 My notebook starts, but the message “Operating system not found” appears and Windows does not start...103 My notebook stops responding or does not shut down...104 The Power Management setting is not responding.
Page 6 I cannot print..115 Troubleshooting i.LINK devices ... 116 I cannot establish a connection between two VAIO comput- ers when using an i.LINK cable... 116 Getting Help...117 Support Options ... 118 Software Support Information ... 120 Sony Service Center... 122...
Page 7: Welcome
Welcome Congratulations on your purchase of this Sony VAIO® computer, and welcome to the VAIO Notebook User Guide. This User Guide provides detailed information on all aspects of using your new VAIO computer, from keyboard functions to preinstalled software applications.
Page 8 Change text in this variable definition to document title.
Page 9: Using Your Vaio Notebook
Using Your VAIO Notebook This section describes the following aspects of your new computer: ❑ Using the Keyboard ❑ Using the Touchpad ❑ Using the Floppy Disk Drive ❑ Using the Optical Disc Drive ❑ Using PC Cards ❑ Using a Second Battery Pack ❑...
Page 10: Using The Keyboard
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Using the Keyboard Your keyboard is very similar to a typewriter’s, but the keyboard has additional keys that perform specific computer-related tasks. Keyboard E s c a p e k e y S h i f t k e y C t r l k e y...
Page 11: Functions Of The Keyboard Keys
Functions of the keyboard keys Description Numeric keypad Contains the keys found on a typical calculator. Use the area numeric keypad area to type numbers or to perform mathematical calculations such as addition and subtraction. Note that you must press the Num Lock key to activate the numeric keypad.
Page 12: Combinations And Functions With The Windows Key
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Description Windows key The key with the Windows® logo displays the Windows Start menu; it is the equivalent of clicking the Start button on the taskbar. See “Combinations and functions with the Windows key”...
Page 13: Indicators
Combination Function Shift + Returns all minimized windows to their previous size. Displays the Run window. This is the equivalent of selecting Run from the Start menu. Fn + + Insert Displays the System Properties window. This is the equivalent of selecting Control Panel and then System from the Start menu.
Page 14: Combinations And Functions With The Fn Key
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Light The number keys in the numeric Lock keypad are active. Caps The letters appear in uppercase as you Lock type. The Shift key lowers the case of typed letters when Caps Lock is on. Scroll The screen scrolls differently.
Page 15 Combinations/ Feature Function Toggles through the LCD, external display (connected to the (F7) Monitor port) and both LCD and external display. Switch to the external monitor/LCD only/ Toggles between LCD-only and dual LCD/TV display (F8) modes. Control TV Out Connect the cable before you turn on the notebook, otherwise Fn + F8 will not work.
Page 16: Using The Touchpad
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Using the Touchpad The keyboard contains a cursor-pointing device called a touchpad. You can point to, select, drag, and scroll objects on the screen using the built-in touchpad. Touchpad Action Description Point Slide one finger on the touchpad to place the pointer on an item or object.
Page 17 Action Description Right-click Press the right button once. In many applications, this action displays a shortcut menu of context-sensitive choices. Drag Slide one finger while pressing the left button. Scroll Move your finger along the right edge of the touchpad to scroll vertically.
Page 18: Using The Floppy Disk Drive
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Using the Floppy Disk Drive Your notebook is supplied with the floppy disk drive in the multipurpose bay. To insert a floppy disk Hold the floppy disk with the label side facing up. Gently push the floppy disk into the drive until it clicks into place.
Page 19: To Remove The Floppy Disk Drive
Removing a floppy disk ✍ Do not push the eject button when the LED indicator is turned on. Otherwise, data may be lost. To remove the floppy disk drive Turn off the notebook. Locate the release lever on the bottom of the notebook. Slide the lever in the direction of the arrow.
Page 20: To Reinsert The Floppy Disk Drive
Change text in this variable definition to document title. To reinsert the floppy disk drive Turn off the notebook. If another device is in the multipurpose bay, remove the device. See “To remove the second battery pack” for more information. Insert the floppy disk drive into the multipurpose bay with the VAIO label facing up.
Page 21: Using The Optical Disc Drive
Using the Optical Disc Drive Your notebook comes with an optical disc drive, either a CD-RW/DVD Combo Drive or DVD-ROM drive, depending on the model you purchased. Do not use adhesive labels to identify your discs. Adhesive labels may come off while the disc is in use in the optical drive, and may cause damage to the drive.
Page 22: To Remove A Disc
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Be sure to seat the disc firmly over the hub fingers. If you do not seat the disc firmly, you could damage the optical drive and you may not be able to open the tray.
Page 23: To Play A Dvd
Manually removing a disc To play a DVD To play a DVD, you may use the optical disc drive and the preinstalled WinDVD® software. For more information on WinDVD, see the Help menu in the WinDVD application. ✍ Before you use the optical disc drive to play a DVD, quit any open applications. Your optical disc drive can read most DVD-R media.
Page 24: To Play An Audio Cd
Change text in this variable definition to document title. ❑ If you connect your notebook to a TV display, you may need to adjust the display resolution. Read the suggestions below to set the display resolution to the proper dimensions. Also see “Selecting the Display Mode” for more information.
Page 25: Notes On Cd And Dvd Media
DVD movies or using DVD applications. Close any open applications before playing a DVD movie. ❑ When playing DVD movies on battery power, set the power management profile to DVD. With other profiles, the movies are choppy. As an alternative, you can set the power management profile to Automatic Profile Selection, which will cause the DVD profile to be selected automatically whenever you insert a DVD.
Page 26: To Write Data To A Cd-Rw Or Cd-R Disc
Change text in this variable definition to document title. To write data to a CD-RW or CD-R disc You can use Sony SonicStage and Microsoft® Windows® XP to write data to a CD-R or CD-RW disc. To create a CD-R disc that is readable in a CD-ROM drive, make sure you finish the writing process before ejecting it.
Page 27: Using Pc Cards
Using PC Cards Your notebook includes two PC Card slots. PC Cards enable you to connect portable external devices such as another hard disk drive, or to connect to a network. The PC Card slots can accommodate two Type I/II PC Cards, or one Type III PC Card.
Page 28: To Remove A Pc Card
Change text in this variable definition to document title. PC Card slot protector Insert the PC Card into the PC Card slot. Verify that the front label of the PC Card is facing up. Push the PC Card slot gently into the port. Your system automatically detects the PC Card.
Page 29: Notes On Pc Cards
Reboot your system to correct the problem. ❑ Some PC Cards may require that you disable idle devices when using the PC Card. You can use Sony Notebook Setup to disable devices. See “Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen” for more information. ❑...
Page 30: Using A Second Battery Pack
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Using a Second Battery Pack You can purchase a second rechargeable battery pack. With two battery packs, you can extend the time that you use your notebook with battery power. When using two battery packs, the battery pack you insert first charges first.
Page 31: To Charge The Second Battery Pack
Using weight saver for second battery cover To charge the second battery pack Keep the battery pack in the notebook while it is connected to AC power. The battery automatically charges as long as the notebook is connected to AC power and turned on.
Page 32: To Remove The Second Battery Pack
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Charging the second battery ✍ To determine the amount of time the battery lasts, see “Displaying Battery Information” for more information. To remove the second battery pack If you attach two battery packs, you can remove either of them without shutting down the notebook.
Page 33 Multipurpose bay release levers Remove the weight saver, and then pull out the battery pack. Reinsert the weight saver. See “Using the Weight Saver” for more information. Using a Second Battery Pack A r r o w 1 : W e i g h t s a v e r r e l e a s e l e v e r A r r o w 2 : R e l e a s e l e v e r...
Page 34: Using The Weight Saver
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Using the Weight Saver The weight saver protects the multipurpose bay when it is empty. To attach the weight saver If another device is in the multipurpose bay, remove the device. See “To remove the second battery pack”...
Page 35 Multipurpose bay release levers After removing the weight saver, pull out the weight saver’s hinged arm and fold it into the weight saver. Using the Weight Saver A r r o w 1 : W e i g h t s a v e r r e l e a s e l e v e r A r r o w 2 : R e l e a s e l e v e r...
Page 36: Using Power Saving Modes
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Using Power Saving Modes When you use a battery as the source of power for your notebook, you can take advantage of power management settings to conserve battery life. In addition to the normal operating mode, which allows you to turn off specific devices, your notebook has two distinct power saving modes: Standby and Hibernate.
Page 37: Notes On Power Saving Modes
To activate Hibernate mode To activate Hibernate mode, press the key combination Fn+F12, or press the power button and release it immediately. The “Save to Disk Manager” screen appears and the notebook enters Hibernate mode. ✍ Do not move the notebook until its power indicator turns off. Press on the power button to return to normal mode.
Page 38: Connecting A Phone Line
Internet. ✍ In order to register your Sony VAIO Sony Customer Support, you must connect to a phone line. Plug one end of the phone cable into the modem jack on the notebook. Connecting phone cable Plug the other end into the wall jack.
Page 39: Connecting To A Lan
Connecting to a LAN You can connect your notebook to 10BASE-T and 100BASE-TX-type Local Area Networks (LANs). For the detailed settings and devices needed to connect to the network, ask your network administrator. Connecting to LAN Warning: Only connect 10BASE-T and 100BASE-TX cables to the port.
Page 40 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Follow the step-by-step instructions that appear on the screen.
Page 41: Connecting Peripheral Devices
Connecting Peripheral Devices You can add functionality to your notebook by connecting a variety of peripherals, as discussed in the following sections: ❑ Connecting a Port Replicator ❑ Connecting an External Mouse or Keyboard ❑ Connecting a Parallel Port Printer ❑...
Page 42: Connecting A Port Replicator
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting a Port Replicator Your notebook supports the use of an optional port replicator (such as the Sony PCGA-PRFX1 model). Attaching a port replicator enables you to connect additional peripherals to your notebook.
Page 43 Turn off your notebook and disconnect all peripheral devices. On the bottom of the notebook, slide the port replicator connector cover open. Port replicator connector P o r t r e p l i c a t o r c o n n e c t o r Attach the bottom of the notebook to the port replicator connector until it clicks.
Page 44: To Remove Your Notebook From The Port Replicator
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting AC adapter to port replicator ✍ Use the AC adapter that comes with your notebook, or an optional Sony adapter. Power indicator P o w e r P o r t r e p l i c a t o r c o n n e c t o r Turn on the notebook.
Page 45 Disengaging notebook from port replicator Lift the notebook away from the port replicator. Lifting notebook Close the port replicator connector cover on the bottom of your notebook. Close the port replicator connector cover after removing your notebook from the port replicator. If the cover is left open, dirt may get inside and damage the notebook.
Page 46: Connecting An External Mouse Or Keyboard
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting an External Mouse or Keyboard You can connect an external mouse or keyboard to the optional port replicator using a similar type PS/2 device at a time. Therefore, you cannot connect both a PS/2 mouse and PS/2 keyboard simultaneously.
Page 47: Connecting A Parallel Port Printer
Printer port P r i n t e r ✍ Before using the printer, you may need to change the Printer setting in the Sony Notebook Setup software. See “Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen” for more information. If your printer stops functioning after resuming from a power-saving mode, see “Troubleshooting the Printer”...
Page 48: Connecting A Usb Printer
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting a USB Printer You can connect a Windows® compatible Universal Serial Bus (USB) printer to either of your notebook’s two USB ports to print documents. ✍ To use a printer, first install the driver software supplied with your printer. To connect a USB printer Plug the optional USB printer cable into one of the two USB ports on your notebook and the USB port on your printer.
Page 49: Connecting An External Display
Connecting an External Display You can connect external display devices such as a computer display (monitor), multimedia computer display, and projector to your notebook. ✍ A 1400 x 1050 screen resolution and 16-bit color mode when using an external display may not be fully supported on some external displays. To connect a computer display Locate the Monitor jack identified by the notebook.
Page 50: To Connect A Projector
See the manual that came with your multimedia computer display for more information on its installation and use. To connect a projector You can use a projector, such as the Sony LCD Projector, as an external display. ❑ See the manual that came with your projector for more information on its installation and use.
Page 51: To Select A Display
To select a display When you connect an external display to the monitor jack, you can toggle the output between the Liquid Crystal Display (LCD), the external monitor, or both devices. Use the Fn+F7 keys to select a display. See also “Selecting the Display Mode” for more information.
Page 52: Connecting A Tv Display
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting a TV Display You can enjoy playing audio/video by connecting optional AV devices to your notebook. See also the manuals supplied with your AV devices for more information on their installation and use. To connect a TV Connect the notebook to a TV using audio/video cables.
Page 53: Notes On Tv Display
Click Start, select Control Panel, and then click the Display icon. The Display Properties dialog box appears. Click on the Settings tab, and click the Advanced button. The Sony Notebook LCD Graphics Properties dialog box appears. Click on the Intel® Graphics Technology tab.
Page 54: Connecting A Usb Device
Connecting USB device to USB port U S B You can use an optional Sony USB mouse such as the PCGA-UMS1 series (not supplied) with this notebook. Since the USB mouse software driver is preinstalled in the notebook, you simply plug the USB mouse into the USB port to use it.
Page 55: Connecting An I.link Device
Next, plug the other end into the DV In/Out port on the digital video camera recorder. * i.LINK is a Sony trademark used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE 1394 con- nection. The i.LINK connection may vary, depending on the software applications, operating system, and compatible i.LINK devices.
Page 56: Notes On I.link Devices
T o D V I n / O u t Notes on i.LINK devices ❑ The above figure displays a connection to a Sony digital video camera recorder; your digital video camera recorder may need to be connected differently. ❑...
Page 57 6-pin connector at the other), and VMC-IL4408A (a 0.8-meter cable with a 4-pin connector at each end). You can purchase ® these cables from your local retailer, through the Sony VAIO Direct Web site (http://www.sonydirect.com), or by calling 1-888-315-7669 (toll free).
Page 58: Connecting Vaio Computers
Smart Connect software may be necessary. Consult the Sony Web site for support options (http://www.sony.com/pcsupport). * i.LINK is a Sony trademark used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE 1394 con- nection. The i.LINK connection may vary, depending on the software applications, operating system, and compatible i.LINK devices.
Page 59: Connecting External Speakers
Connecting External Speakers You can enhance the sound quality of your notebook by connecting external speakers. See the manual that accompanied your speakers for more information on their installation and use. Do not place floppy disks on the speakers; the speakers’ magnetic field may damage the data on the floppy disks.
Page 60: Connecting An External Microphone
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting an External Microphone You can enhance the quality of sound input by using an external microphone. See the manual that accompanied your microphone for more information on its installation and use. ✍...
Page 61: Expanding Your Notebook Capabilities
Expanding Your Notebook Capabilities A Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), Wireless LAN Access Point, and Wireless LAN PC Card peripheral device can be connected to your notebook, to expand the capabilities of your computer and enhance its versatility to meet your various business or personal needs.
Page 62: Wireless Lan Pc Card
Wireless LAN PC Card and gain access to the Internet. Without the Access Point, you can achieve direct communication (Peer to Peer mode) between computers. ✍ For information on available Sony products, go to: http://www.sonystyle.com/wirelesslan.
Page 63: Customizing Your Vaio Notebook
Customizing Your VAIO Notebook The following sections briefly describe how to change your notebook’s default settings: ❑ Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen ❑ Controlling Power Management ❑ Displaying Battery Information ❑ Selecting the Display Mode...
Page 64: Displaying The Sony Notebook Setup Screen
Point to All Programs, select Sony Notebook Setup, and click Sony Notebook Setup. Sony Notebook Setup Screen Select the tab for the item you want to change. See “Sony Notebook Setup Tabs” for more information. After you finish making your changes, click OK.
Page 65: Sony Notebook Setup Tabs
Touchpad Power On Password Enable Ports Basic/Advanced ✍ For more information about each option, click Help on the Sony Notebook Setup screen to display the help file. Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen Description Display system information, including memory capacity, serial number, and BIOS version.
Page 66: Controlling Power Management
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Controlling Power Management The PowerPanel™ utility allows you to control the power management of your notebook and provides key information about system activity and battery life. The following sections briefly describe how to conserve your notebook’s battery power.
Page 67: Power Management Profiles
To customize Power Management settings Click the Current Profile icon on the Power Management toolbar. Select Edit/Create Profiles from the menu. Click a profile whose setting you want to change from the list in the left field. Double-click an item whose setting you want to change from the list in the right field.
Page 68 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Icon Description AC Power The power management state when AC power is in use. Similar to the Power Management Off setting. Power Management automatically loads the AC profile unless you disable this feature. Games Disables the display and the Hard Disk Standby timer.
Page 69: Power Management Commands
Icon Description Spreadsheet Optimizes performance and power requirements for spreadsheet applications. Communications Extends battery life by initiating a quick display timeout. The Internal modem remains powered. You can also establish settings for LCD (Video) Standby, Hard Disk Standby, and Standby mode to optimize power management for your system.
Page 70: Conserving Battery Power
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Conserving battery power When using the notebook with a battery, the LCD display and the hard drive can be set to switch off automatically to conserve battery power. See “Power Management profiles” for more information.
Page 71: Displaying Battery Information
Displaying Battery Information You can display information for each of the batteries in your notebook. The following sections briefly describe how to display your notebook’s general battery information. Refer to PowerPanel™ Help for more detailed information. To activate the Battery Information toolbar Right-click on the taskbar at the bottom of the screen.
Page 72: To Display Detailed Battery Information
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Battery icon Battery status Fully charged Discharging No battery To display detailed battery information Double-click the battery icon on the task tray to display the Battery Information window. The screen appears displaying the Battery tab, which contains information such as the estimated time-to-empty and charging time.
Page 73: To Customize The Battery Information Toolbar And Alarm System
Displaying Battery Information Battery Information Window To customize the Battery Information toolbar and alarm system You can customize the Battery Information toolbar and modify the alarm settings, to suit your portable computing needs. Refer to PowerPanel™ Help for more information.
Page 74: Selecting The Display Mode
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Selecting the Display Mode This notebook uses the Intel desired display when the notebook is connected to an external monitor. When you connect an external display, you can switch the display mode between your notebook’s LCD display and the external monitor.
Page 75 Click the Settings tab, then click the Advanced button, to display the Intel 82815 Graphics Controller Properties dialog box. ® Intel 82815 Graphics Controller Properties Screen ® Click the Intel Graphics Technology tab, then click the Graphics Properties button. If you want to use the TV as a display, deselect the Synchronous Display Mode box and click Apply.
Page 76: To Change The Window Design Of Sony Software
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 >> and then click OK to close the UI Design Selector.
Page 77: Adding Memory To Your Vaio Notebook
Adding Memory to Your VAIO Notebook In the future you may want to install memory modules to expand the functionality of your notebook. The amount of memory on your notebook will vary depending on the model you purchased. See the Specifications flyer supplied with your notebook for the amount of memory pre-installed.
Page 78: Precautions And Procedures
VAIO® FX All-in-one Notebook Quick Start Precautions and Procedures The procedures described below assume you are familiar with the general terminology associated with personal notebooks and with common safety practices required for using and modifying electronic equipment. Personal injury or equipment damage may result from failure to take these precautions. Observe the proper safety precautions when installing memory modules in your notebook.
Page 79 128 MB Memory Models Total System Memory (MB) Slot 1 (MB) * The 384 MB and 512 MB memory configurations may require the removal and replacement of original factory-installed memory modules. 256 MB Memory Models Total System Memory (MB) Slot 1 (MB) * The 384 MB and 512 MB memory configurations may require the removal and replacement of original factory-installed memory modules.
Page 80: Removing A Memory Module
VAIO® FX All-in-one Notebook Quick Start Removing a Memory Module Shut down your notebook and disconnect all peripheral devices, such as your printer. Unplug the notebook and remove the battery pack(s). After the notebook has cooled, loosen and remove the screw that secures the cover of the memory bay on the bottom of your notebook.
Page 81: Removing Memory Module
Removing memory module 1 P u l l t h e t a b s i n t h e d i r e c t i o n o f t h e a r r o w s . T h e m e m o r y m o d u l e i s r e l e a s e d .
Page 82: Installing A Memory Module
VAIO® FX All-in-one Notebook Quick Start Installing a Memory Module Shut down your notebook and disconnect all peripheral devices, such as your printer. Unplug the notebook and remove the battery pack(s). After the notebook has cooled, loosen and remove the screw that secures the cover of the memory bay on the bottom of your notebook.
Page 83: Installing Memory Module
Installing memory module 1 S l i d e t h e m e m o r y m o d u l e i n t o t h e s l o t . Replace the memory bay cover. Tighten the screw on the cover of the memory bay.
Page 84: Viewing The Amount Of Memory
The amount of memory displayed in the Sony Notebook Setup screen is not always correct. The video adapter uses some system memory, and that amount of memory does not appear as part of the total memory shown in the Sony Notebook Setup screen.
Page 85: About The Software On Your Notebook
This section provides the following information: ❑ An overview of the various software that come with your notebook and the activities you can perform with your software ❑ Details on your Sony application, driver, and system recovery CDs...
Page 86: Software Overview
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Software Overview Your computer may not be supplied with all of the software listed below, depending on the configuration you purchased. Preinstalled software may not be identical to retail versions, or include supporting documentation. Adobe Acrobat®...
Page 87 Office and access information anytime. * i.LINK is a Sony trademark used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE 1394 con- nection. The i.LINK connection may vary, depending on the software applications, operating system, and compatible i.LINK devices.
Page 88 Web. PictureGear™ Sony Electronics Inc. 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.
Page 89 Internet. This Custom RealJukebox for Sony allows seamless check-out capabilities to a wide range of Sony personal audio devices, and offers convenient links to Sony product and music service home pages.
Page 90 Sony on Yahoo! Yahoo! Inc. Personalize your own web portal with Sony on Yahoo! Get a free webmail account, customized news and local weather reports, comics, and more. SonyStyle Connect Sony Electronics Inc.
Page 91 Software Overview ® WinDVD InterVideo Inc. WinDVD is a simple-to-use DVD player including all the features you would expect to find in a standard consumer DVD player, while also offering advanced display and navigation features such as zoom, pan, bookmark, and time search.
Page 92: Application, Driver, And System Recovery Cds
Your notebook comes with the following application, driver, and system recovery CDs. To use your recovery CDs, see “Using Your Recovery CDs” for more information. Application Recovery CD(s) Sony Electronics Inc. This CD enables you to reinstall individual applications if they become corrupted or are erased. Driver Recovery CD(s) Sony Electronics Inc.
Page 93: Using Your Recovery Cds
✍ You must be in Windows® to run the Application Recovery CD. If you have any questions on using the Application Recovery CD, contact Sony Customer Support. Turn on your notebook. If your notebook is already on, close all applications.
Page 94 Change text in this variable definition to document title. your computer, hardware, or software application. VAIO Support Agent, an application repair utility, uses a vault feature on the Driver Recovery CD during its software healing process. ✍ If you need to reinstall all of the software applications that shipped with your computer, use the System Recovery CD.
Page 95 Device Manager screen From the Action menu, click Uninstall. This will remove the device driver from your system. Click OK to confirm this action. Repeat as necessary. Reboot your computer. Click Start in the Windows taskbar, and click Turn Off Computer, then Restart. When the Windows desktop reappears, Windows will automatically reinstall the device driver(s) from the Driver Recovery CD.
Page 96 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then Control Panel. The Control Panel window appears. Click Performance and Maintenance, then System. The System Properties dialog box appears. From the Hardware tab, click Device Manager. Click with the left mouse button to highlight the device for which you wish to reinstall the driver.
Page 97 Properties dialog box Click Reinstall Driver. The Hardware Update Wizard appears. Click Next. The wizard will search for the correct driver on your Driver Recovery CD. 10 When the recovery process is complete, click Finish. Some drivers will require that you reboot the computer to complete installation. Using Your Recovery CDs...
Page 98: To Use The System Recovery Cd(S)
If you have any questions on using the System Recovery CD, contact Sony Customer Support. Insert the Sony System Recovery CD in the optical drive. Shut down your notebook as described in the “Shutting Down Your Notebook” section of your printed Quick Start.
Page 99 Press the power button and hold it for more than four seconds to turn off the notebook. Turn on the notebook. When the Sony logo is displayed, press the F2 key. The BIOS setup menu screen appears. Press the arrow keys to select the Exit menu.
Page 100 Change text in this variable definition to document title.
Page 101: Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting This section describes how to solve common problems you may encounter when using your notebook. Many problems have simple solutions, so try these suggestions before you contact Sony PC Support (http://www.sony.com/pcsupport). Consult the following sections: ❑ Troubleshooting Your Notebook ❑...
Page 102: Troubleshooting Your Notebook
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Troubleshooting Your Notebook My notebook does not start. ❑ Check that the notebook is plugged into a power source and that it is turned on. Check that the power indicator on the front panel of the notebook indicates that the power is on.
Page 103: My Notebook Starts, But The Message "Operating System Not Found" Appears And Windows Does Not Start
Turn off the notebook. Remove any peripheral devices connected to the notebook. Turn the notebook back on. Press the F2 key when the Sony logo appears. The BIOS setup menu screen appears. Press the directional arrow keys to select the Exit menu.
Page 104: My Notebook Stops Responding Or Does Not Shut Down
Change text in this variable definition to document title. My notebook stops responding or does not shut down. It is best to shut down your notebook using the Turn Off Computer command on the Windows Start menu. Using other methods, including those listed here, may result in loss of unsaved data.
Page 105: The Sound Of My Notebook's Fan Is Too Loud
✍ If this procedure does not work, press and hold the power button for four seconds or longer to shut down the notebook. The sound of my notebook’s fan is too loud. Use the PowerPanel™ utility to change the Thermal Control Strategy setting to Quiet.
Page 106: Troubleshooting The Lcd Screen
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Troubleshooting the LCD Screen My LCD screen is blank. ❑ Check that the notebook is plugged into a power source and that it is turned on. ❑ Check that the power indicator on the notebook is on. ❑...
Page 107: I Cannot Switch The Lcd Display To Tv, And Vice Versa
Click Start, select Control Panel, select Appearance and Themes, and then click the Display icon. The Display Properties dialog box appears. Click on the Settings tab, and click the Advanced button. The Sony Notebook LCD dialog box appears. Click on the Intel® Graphics Technology tab.
Page 108: Troubleshooting The Mouse And Touchpad
See “Connecting an External Mouse or Keyboard” for more information. ❑ If you are using an optional, compatible Sony USB mouse, check that the mouse is plugged into the USB port. ❑ If you are still experiencing problems, use your supplied Application Recovery CD(s) to reinstall the mouse drivers.
Page 109: The Pointer Does Not Move While I Am Using The Touchpad Or Mouse
If this procedure does not work, ensure that another mouse was not installed. You may need to use your supplied Driver Recovery CD(s) to reinstall the mouse drivers. See “To use the Driver Recovery CD(s)” for more information. The pointer does not move while I am using the Touchpad or Mouse.
Page 110: Troubleshooting Drives, Pc Cards And Peripheral Devices
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Troubleshooting Drives, PC Cards and Peripheral Devices My floppy disk drive cannot write to a floppy disk. ❑ Check that the floppy disk drive is properly inserted into the multipurpose bay. See “Using the Floppy Disk Drive” for more information. ❑...
Page 111: My Optical Drive Tray Does Not Open
Make sure any necessary drivers were installed properly. See “Using Your Recovery CDs” for more information on using the drivers. * i.LINK is a Sony trademark used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE 1394 con- nection. The i.LINK connection may vary, depending on the software applications, operating system, and compatible i.LINK devices.
Page 112: Troubleshooting Software
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Troubleshooting Software My software program stops responding or crashes. Contact the software publisher or designated provider for technical support. See “Software Support Information” for more information. When I click an application icon, the message “You must insert the application CD into your optical drive”...
Page 113: Troubleshooting The Modem
Check that the phone number the program is dialing is correct. ❑ Check that the software you are using is compatible with the notebook’s modem. (All preinstalled Sony programs are compatible.) ❑ If you are still experiencing problems, use your supplied Driver Recovery CD(s) to reinstall the modem drivers.
Page 114: Troubleshooting Audio
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Troubleshooting Audio My speakers make no sound. ❑ If the built-in speakers are turned off, press Fn+F3 to turn on the speakers. ❑ If the speaker volume is turned to the minimum, press Fn+F4, and then press to increase the volume or you can use the Jog Dial control to control the volume.
Page 115: Troubleshooting The Printer
The default setting for the printer port mode is correct for most printers. If you cannot print, try changing the printer port mode. In Sony Notebook Setup, select the Printer tab. If the printer port mode is set to ECP, change it to bi-directional. If the printer port mode is set to bi-directional, change it to ECP.
Page 116: Troubleshooting I.link Devices
(Standby or Hibernate). If that happens, restart the computers to establish a connection. * i.LINK is a Sony trademark used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE 1394 con- nection. The i.LINK connection may vary, depending on the software applications, operating system, and compatible i.LINK devices.
Page 117: Getting Help
Getting Help Sony provides you with several support options to answer questions about ® your VAIO Notebook or the preinstalled software. Refer to these resources in the order they are listed.
Page 118: Support Options
VAIO Support Agent You can find VAIO Support Agent by clicking Start and then selecting Help and Support. Using advanced diagnostic technology, Sony’s VAIO Support Agent runs scheduled protections of your applications, network settings, and other important software settings. When your software is protected, you can use VAIO Support Agent to repair software problems by restoring your software to any of the previously protected states.
Page 119 4-SONY-PC (1-888-476-6972). Sony Customer Support Software support is available free of charge for 90 days after the original date of purchase. You can call and speak with a Sony Customer Support Representative without using your computer by calling: 1-888-4-SONY- PC (1-888-476-6972).
Page 120: Software Support Information
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Software Support Information ® Adobe Acrobat Reader, Photoshop® Elements (Adobe Systems, Inc.) Web site http://www.adobe.com/ phone 206-675-6126 (fee-based support) e-mail techdocs@adobe.com hours M-F, 6 AM-5 PM PST America Online® (America Online, Inc.) Web site http://www.aol.com phone...
Page 121 888-4-SONY-PC (888-476-6972) hours 7 days a week, 24 hours a day * Support from 1-888-4-SONY-PC is free of charge for 90 days after the original date of purchase. Windows® Operating System, Internet Explorer, Word (Microsoft Corp.) Web site http://www.sony.com/pcsupport...
Page 122: Sony Service Center
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Sony Service Center For the Sony Service Center nearest you, call 1-888-4-SONY-PC (1-888-476-6972) or find Sony Customer Service on the Web at: http://www.sony.com/pcsupport.
Page 123 About This Computer tab AC power setting Access Point, Wireless LAN adding hardware memory peripherals 47, 48 printers adjusting brightness volume Alt key Application Recovery CD Applications key attaching port replicator audio troubleshooting Audio tab Basic/Advanced tab battery information battery pack inserting a second battery packs charge status icons...
Page 124 Change text in this variable definition to document title. digital video recorder Power Management profile canceling commands Caps Lock indicator light CD-ROM/DVD-ROM discs ejecting handling inserting CD-RW/DVD combo drive using charging battery packs coin-operated telephones computer connecting to another customizing expanding capabilities of setup screen troubleshooting...
Page 125 cursor-movement keys customizing your computer digital video camera display connecting a monitor connecting a multimedia computer display connecting a projector connecting a TV mode options selecting troubleshooting Driver Recovery CD drives floppy disk installing additional hard disk optical troubleshooting DV In/Out playing DVD-ROM drive closing tray...
Page 126 Change text in this variable definition to document title. 14, 59 speakers floppy disk drive disconnecting troubleshooting using Fn key Fn key, combination commands function keys handling CD-ROMs and DVD-ROMs hard drives indicator light installing additional hardware online support PC Cards troubleshooting help getting...
Page 127 hard drives hardware memory module peripherals jacks multimedia computer display port replicator keyboard connecting external keyboard, using selecting to display output troubleshooting Maximum Battery Life power setting Maximum Performance power setting memory adding viewing the amount of memory module expansion installing removing microphone...
Page 128 Change text in this variable definition to document title. troubleshooting multimedia computer display multiple phone lines navigation keys network connecting Notebook Setup tabs Num Lock indicator light opening optical drive tray operator keys optical drive CD-RW/DVD combo drive opening tray using output devices 47, 48...
Page 129 DVDs port replicator connecting ports 47, 48 printer serial port power indicator power management settings Power Management Off power setting Power On Password tab power saving modes 15, 36 Hibernate Standby power setting Maximum Battery Life Maximum Performance Power Management Off Standby PowerPanel activating...
Page 130 Power On Password tab Printer tab Touchpad tab setup tabs Shift key Smart Connect software troubleshooting Software list Sony Fax-on-Demand service Sony Notebook Setup screen Sony Service Center speakers external switching troubleshooting volume 14, 36, 69 Standby mode Start button...
Page 131 support options switching display monitor television connecting touchpad troubleshooting Touchpad tab touchpad, using troubleshooting audio drives, PC Cards and peripherals general LCD screen modem mouse and touchpad notebook printer software connecting connecting connector mouse printer USB port printer, connecting using floppy disk drive keyboard optical drive...
Page 132 Change text in this variable definition to document title. video camera viewing the amount of memory volume control volume, adjusting weight saver connecting fold-out arm removing using Windows Explorer Find window help key combinations taskbar Wireless LAN...

Sony PCG-FX410 Primary User Manual

Welcome

Using Your VAIO Notebook

Connecting Peripheral Devices

Customizing Your VAIO Notebook

Adding Memory to Your VAIO Notebook

About the Software on Your Notebook

Troubleshooting

Getting Help

Quick Links

Troubleshooting

Related Manuals for Sony PCG-FX410 Primary

Summary of Contents for Sony PCG-FX410 Primary

Table of Contents