Sony Laptop PCG F640 User Manual

VAIO® Notebook  
User Guide  
PCG-F640  
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intended for home and other limited viewing  
uses only unless otherwise authorized by  
Macrovision Corporation. Reverse engineering  
or disassembly is prohibited.  
Avoid using the modem during an  
electrical storm.  
Do not use the modem or a  
telephone to report a gas leak in  
the vicinity of the leak.  
All other trademarks are trademarks of their  
respective owners.  
A socket outlet should be as close  
as possible to the unit and easily  
accessible.  
Owner’s Record  
The model number and serial number are  
located on the bottom of your Sony VAIO®  
Notebook. Refer to the model and serial  
number when you call your Sony Service  
Center.  
!
!
To change the backup battery,  
please contact your nearest Sony  
Service Center.  
Caution - The use of optical  
instruments with this product will  
increase eye hazard. As the laser  
beam used in this product is  
harmful to the eyes, do not  
attempt to disassemble the  
cabinet. Refer servicing to  
qualified personnel only.  
Model Number: PCG-934A  
Serial Number:________________________  
Safety Information  
WARNING  
To prevent fire or shock hazard,  
do not expose your notebook  
computer to rain or moisture.  
!
!
For DVD-ROM: Danger - Visible  
and invisible laser radiation when  
open. Avoid direct exposure to  
beam.  
To avoid electrical shock, do not  
open the cabinet. Refer servicing  
to qualified personnel only.  
Caution: To reduce the risk of fire,  
use only No. 26 AWG or larger  
telecommunication line cord.  
Never install modem or telephone  
wiring during a lightning storm.  
Never install telephone jacks in  
wet locations unless the jack is  
specifically designed for wet  
locations.  
AVERTISSEMENT  
Pour prévenir tout risque  
d’incendie ou d’électrocution,  
garder cet appareil à l’abri de la  
pluie et de l’humidité.  
Never touch uninsulated  
telephone wire or terminals  
unless the telephone line has been  
disconnected at the network  
interface.  
Pour prévenir tout risque  
d’électrocution, ne pas ouvrir le  
châssis de cet appareil et ne  
confier son entretien qu’à une  
personne qualifiée.  
Use caution when installing or  
modifying telephone lines.  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
.
Ne jamais effectuer l’installation  
de fil modem ou téléphone durant  
un orage électrique.  
!
!
Pour changer la pile de rechange,  
veuillez contacter votre centre de  
service Sony le plus près.  
Ne jamais effectuer l’installation  
d’une prise téléphonique dans un  
endroit mouillé à moins que la  
prise soit conçue à cet effet.  
Avertissement - L'utilisation  
d'instruments optiques avec ce  
produit augmente les risques pour  
les yeux. Puisque le faisceau  
laser utilisé dans ce produit est  
dommageable pour les yeux, ne  
tentez pas de désassembler le  
boîtier. Adressez-vous à un agent  
de service qualifié.  
Ne jamais toucher un fil  
téléphonique à découvert ou un  
terminal à moins que la ligne  
téléphonique n’ait été débranché  
de l’interface réseau.  
Soyez très prudent lorsque vous  
installez ou modifiez les lignes  
téléphoniques.  
!
!
Pour les DVD-ROM : Danger :  
Radiation laser visible et invisible  
si ouvert. Évitez l’exposition  
directe au faisceau.  
Évitez d’utiliser le modem durant  
un orage électrique.  
Attention : Afin de réduire les  
risques d'incendie, n'utilisez  
qu'un cordon de communication  
N0. 26 AWG ou plus gros.  
N'utilisez pas le modem ni le  
téléphone pour prévenir d'une  
fuite de gaz vous êtes près de la  
fuite.  
If you have questions about this product, you  
can reach the Sony Customer Information  
Service Center at 1-888-4SONYPC; or write to  
the Sony Customer Information Service Center  
at 12451 Gateway Blvd., Ft. Myers, FL 33913  
or find Sony Customer Service on the web at:  
http://www.sony.com/pcsupport  
Lappareil doit être le plus près  
possible d’une prise murale pour  
en faciliter l’accès  
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interference by one or more of the following  
measures:  
Regulatory  
Information  
Reorient or relocate the receiving  
antenna.  
Declaration of Conformity  
Increase the separation between  
the equipment and the receiver.  
Trade Name:  
Model No.:  
SONY  
Connect the equipment into an  
outlet on a circuit different from  
that to which the receiver is  
connected.  
PCG-934A  
ResponsibleParty:  
Address:  
Sony Electronics Inc.  
1 Sony Drive  
Park Ridge, NJ 07656  
Consult the dealer or an  
experienced radio/TV technician  
for help.  
Telephone:  
201-930-6972  
This phone number is for FCC-related  
matters only.  
You are cautioned that any changes or  
modifications not expressly approved in this  
manual could void your authority to operate this  
equipment.  
This device complies with Part 15 of the  
FCC rules. Operation is subject to the  
following two conditions:  
Only peripherals (computer input/output  
devices, terminals, printers, etc.) that comply  
with FCC Class B limits may be attached to this  
computer product. Operation with non-  
compliant peripherals is likely to result in  
interference to radio and television reception.  
(1) This device may not cause harmful  
interference, and  
(2) this device must accept any interference  
received, including interference that may  
cause undesired operation.  
All cables used to connect peripherals must be  
shielded and grounded. Operation with cables,  
connected to peripherals, that are not shielded  
and grounded, may result in interference to  
radio and television reception.  
This equipment has been tested and found to  
comply with the limits for a Class B digital  
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the Rules. These  
limits are designed to provide reasonable  
protection against harmful interference in a  
residential installation. This equipment  
FCC Part 68  
generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency  
energy and, if not installed and used in  
This equipment complies with Part 68 of the  
FCC rules. On the bottom of this equipment is a  
label that contains, among other information,  
the FCC equivalence number (REN) for this  
equipment. If requested, this information must  
be provided to the telephone company.  
accordance with the instructions, may cause  
harmful interference to radio communications.  
However, there is no guarantee that interference  
will not occur in a particular installation. If this  
equipment does cause harmful interference to  
radio or television reception, which can be  
determined by turning the equipment off and  
on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the  
This modem uses the USOC RJ-11 telephone  
jack.  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
The REN is used to determine the quantity of  
devices which may be connected to the  
telephone line. Excessive RENs on the  
commission, public service commission, or  
corporation commission, for information.)  
telephone line may result in the devices not  
ringing in response to an incoming call. In  
most, but not all areas, the sum of the RENs  
should not exceed five (5.0). To be certain of the  
number of devices that may be connected to the  
line, as determined by the total RENs, contact  
the telephone company to determine the  
maximum REN for the calling area.  
Telephone Consumer  
Protection Act of 1991  
(United States)  
The Telephone Consumer Protection Act of  
1991 makes it unlawful for any person to use a  
computer or other electronic device to send any  
message via a telephone facsimile machine  
unless such message clearly contains, in a  
margin at the top or bottom of each transmitted  
page or on the first page of the transmission, the  
date and time it is sent and an identification of  
the business, other entity, or individual sending  
the message, and the telephone number of the  
sending machine or such business, other entity,  
or individual.  
If the terminal equipment causes harm to the  
telephone network, the telephone company will  
notify you in advance that temporary  
discontinuance of service may be required. But  
if advance notice is not practical, the telephone  
company will notify the customer as soon as  
possible. Also, you will be advised of your right  
to file a complaint with the FCC if you believe  
it is necessary.  
In order to program this information into your  
facsimile machine, see your fax software  
documentation.  
The telephone company may make changes in  
its facilities, equipment, operations or  
procedures that could affect the operations of  
the equipment. If this happens, the telephone  
company will provide advance notice in order  
for you to make the necessary modifications in  
order to maintain uninterrupted service.  
Telephone Consumer  
Guidelines (Canada)  
Please refer to your telephone directory under  
‘Privacy Issues’ and/or ‘Terms of Service.’ For  
more detailed information, please contact:  
If trouble is experienced with this equipment,  
you can reach the Sony Customer Information  
Service Center at 1-888-4SONYPC; or write to  
the Sony Customer Information Service Center  
at 12451 Gateway Blvd., Ft. Myers, FL 33913  
or find Sony Customer Service on the web at:  
http://www.sony.com/pcsupport  
CRTC  
Terrasses de la Chaudiére, Tour centrale  
1 promenade du Portage, 5 étage Hull  
PQ K1A 0N2.  
This Class B digital apparatus complies with  
Canadian ICES-003.  
Repair of this equipment should be made only  
by a Sony Service Center or Sony authorized  
agent. For the Sony Service Center nearest you,  
call 1-888-4SONYPC (1-888-476-6972).  
Cet àppareil numérique de la classe B est  
conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.  
This equipment cannot be used on public coin  
service provided by the telephone company.  
Connection to Party Line Service is subject to  
state and possible provincial tariffs. (Contact  
the state or provincial utility service  
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DISPOSAL OF LITHIUM ION  
BATTERY  
!
!
The battery pack used in this  
device may present a fire or  
chemical burn hazard if  
mistreated. Do not disassemble,  
heat above 212°F (100°C) or  
incinerate.  
You can return your unwanted lithium ion  
batteries to your nearest Sony Service Center or  
Factory Service Center.  
In some areas the disposal of lithium  
ion batteries in household or  
Dispose of used battery promptly.  
Keep away from children.  
business trash may be prohibited.  
La manutention incorrecte du  
module de batterie de cet appareil  
présente un risque d'incendie ou  
de brûlures chimiques. Ne pas  
démonter, incinérer ou exposer à  
une température de plus de 100°C.  
Évacuer promptement la batterie  
usée. Garder hors de portée des  
enfants.  
For the Sony Service Center nearest you, call 1-  
888-476-6972 in the United States or 1-800-  
961-7669 in Canada.  
!
!
Do not handle damaged or leaking  
lithium ion batteries.  
Ne pas manipuler les batteries au  
lithium-ion qui fuient ou sont  
endommagées.  
INDUSTRY CANADA NOTICE  
NOTICE: The Industry Canada label identifies  
certified equipment. This certification means  
that the equipment meets certain  
telecommunications network protective,  
operational and safety requirements as  
prescribed in the appropriate Terminal  
Equipment Technical Requirements  
document(s). The Department does not  
guarantee the equipment will operate to the  
user’s satisfaction.  
!
!
Danger of explosion if battery is  
incorrectly replaced. Replace only  
with the same or equivalent type  
recommended by the  
manufacturer. Discard used  
batteries according to the  
manufacturer’s instructions.  
Une batterie non conforme  
présente un danger d'explosion.  
La remplacer seulement par une  
batterie identique ou de type  
équivalent recommandé par le  
fabricant. Évacuer les batteries  
usées selon les directives du  
fabricant.  
Before installing this equipment, users should  
ensure that it is permissible to be connected to  
the facilities of the local telecommunications  
company. The equipment must also be installed  
using an acceptable method of connection.  
The customer should be aware that compliance  
with the above conditions may not prevent  
degradation of service in some situations.  
Repairs to certified equipment should be  
coordinated by a representative designated by  
the supplier. Equipment malfunctions or any  
repairs or alterations made by the user to this  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
equipment may give the telecommunications  
company cause to request that the user  
disconnect the equipment.  
qu’il est possible que la conformité aux  
conditions énoncées ci-dessus n’empêche pas la  
dégradation du service dans certaines  
situations.  
Users should ensure for their own protection  
that the electrical ground connections of the  
power utility, telephone lines and internal  
metallic water pipe system, if present, are  
connected together. This precaution may be  
particularly important in rural areas.  
Les réparations de matériel homologué doivent  
être coordonnées par un représentant désigné  
par le fournisseur. Lentreprise de  
télécommunications peut demander à  
l’utilisateur de débrancher un appareil à la suite  
de réparations ou de modifications effectuées  
par l’utilisateur ou à cause de mauvais  
fonctionnement.  
Caution: Users should not attempt to make such  
connections themselves, but should contact the  
appropriate electric inspection authority, or  
electrician, as appropriate.  
Pour sa propre protection, l’utilisateur doit  
s’assurer que tous les fils de mise à la terre de la  
source d’énergie électrique, des lignes  
téléphoniques et des canalisations d’eau  
métalliques, s’il y en a, sont raccordés  
ensemble. Cette précaution est particulièrement  
importante dans les régions rurales.  
NOTICE: The Ringer Equivalence Number  
(REN) assigned to each terminal device  
provides an indication of the maximum number  
of terminals allowed to be connected to a  
telephone interface. The termination on an  
interface may consist of any combination of  
devices subject only to the requirement that the  
sum of the Ringer Equivalence Numbers of all  
the devices does not exceed 5. The Ringer  
Equivalence Number for this equipment is 0.0.  
Avertissement: Lutilisateur ne doit pas tenter  
de faire ces raccordements lui-même; il doit  
avoir recours à un service d’inspection des  
installations électriques, ou à un électricien,  
selon le cas.  
AVIS DE LINDUSTRIE  
CANADA  
AVIS: Lindice d’équivalence de la sonnerie  
(IES) assigné à chaque dispositif terminal  
indique le nombre maximal de terminaux qui  
peuvent être raccordés à une interface.  
AVIS: Létiquette d’Industrie Canada identifie  
le matériel homologué.  
La terminaison d’une interface téléphonique  
peut consister en une combination de quelques  
dispositifs, à la seule condition que la somme  
d’indices d’équivalence de la sonnerie de tous  
les dispositifs n’excède pas 5. Lindice  
d’équivalence de la sonnerie de ce matériel est  
de 0.0.  
Cette étiquette certifie que le matériel est  
conforme aux normes de protection,  
d’exploitation et de sécurité des réseaux de  
télécommunications, comme le prescrivent les  
documents concernant les exigences techniques  
relatives au matériel terminal. Le Ministère  
n’assure toutefois pas que le matériel  
fonctionnera à la satisfaction de l’utilisateur.  
Avant d’installer ce matériel, l’utilisateur doit  
s’assurer qu’il est permis de le raccorder aux  
installations de l’entreprise locale de  
télécommunication. Le matériel doit également  
être installé en suivant une méthode acceptée de  
raccordement. Labonné ne doit pas oublier  
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Contents  
Using the DVD-ROM Drive ....................................43  
Using PC Cards ........................................................48  
Using Infrared Communication Devices ..................51  
Using a Second Battery Pack ...................................52  
Using the Weight Saver ............................................56  
Using Smart Connect ...............................................58  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
Connecting an External Display ..............................66  
Connecting the Port Replicator ................................70  
Connecting an External Microphone .......................75  
About Your Software ...............................89  
PictureGear™ ..........................................................92  
About Your Recovery CDs ..................................... 94  
For Answers to Your Software Questions ...............94  
Using the System and Application Recovery CDs ..97  
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Contents  
Troubleshooting .....................................101  
Specifications ........................................113  
Index ........................................................117  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
12  
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Welcome  
Congratulations on your purchase of the Sony VAIO® notebook. Sony has  
combined leading-edge technology in audio, video, computing, and  
communications to provide you with state-of-the-art personal computing.  
Features  
For a complete description of the specifications of your VAIO® Notebook, see  
page 113.  
Exceptional performance — Your notebook includes a mobile Intel®  
Pentium® III processor featuring Intel® SpeedStep™ and a V.90 compatible  
K56flex modem.*  
Portability — Rechargeable battery pack provides hours of use without AC  
power.  
Sony audio and video quality — High-quality MPEG1/MPEG2 video,  
which supports full-screen display and enables you to take advantage of  
today’s advanced multimedia applications, games, and entertainment  
software.  
Multimedia features — Enjoy the stereo speakers or use a headphone (not  
supplied) to listen to audio and video CDs.  
Microsoft® Windows® operating system — Your system includes  
Microsoft® Windows® Millennium Edition.  
Communications — Access popular online services, send e-mail, browse  
the Internet, and use fax features.  
DVD — This new optical storage technology provides increased storage  
capacity and a rich multimedia computing experience. DVD-ROM drives  
play both DVD-ROM and CD-ROM discs.  
* Actual upload and download speeds may vary due to line conditions, ISP support, and gov-  
ernment regulations.  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
Unpacking Your Notebook  
Remove the following hardware items from the box:  
*
Main unit  
Power cord  
AC adapter  
Video cable  
Rechargeable  
battery pack  
Weight saver  
* Removable floppy disk drive is in the multipurpose bay.  
Manuals  
VAIO® User Guide Contains information on setting up your notebook,  
supplementary updates and software information. This manual describes the  
features and specifications of your notebook, the applications included with  
your system, how to contact software vendors, and solve common problems.  
Microsoft® Windows® Millennium Edition Getting Started manual —  
Explains how to use the basic features of this latest Windows operating  
system.  
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Unpacking Your Notebook  
Software CDs  
Microsoft® Word 2000 — Allows you to reinstall Microsoft Word to the  
VAIO notebook you purchased.  
Recovery CDs  
System Recovery CD(s) — Allows you to restore the software titles that  
shipped with your computer if they become corrupted or are erased. It can  
only be used to restore the hard disk of the VAIO notebook you purchased.  
Application Recovery CD(s) — Allows you to reinstall individual  
applications or device drivers if they become corrupted or erased.  
Other  
Setting up your VAIO® Notebook (poster)  
Packet containing special product offers  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
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Ergonomic Considerations  
You will be using your notebook computer as a portable device in a variety of  
environments. Whenever possible, you should attempt to apply the following  
ergonomic considerations to both stationary and portable environments.  
Ergonomic Position  
Computer positioned  
directly in front of you  
Arms at desk  
level  
Wrists relaxed  
and flat  
Position of your computer — Place the computer directly in front of you as  
you work. Keep your forearms horizontal, with your wrists in a neutral,  
comfortable position while using the keyboard, touchpad, or external mouse.  
Let your upper arms hang naturally at your sides. Take breaks during  
sessions with your computer. Excessive use of the computer may strain  
muscles or tendons.  
Furniture and posture — Sit in a chair with good back support and  
armrests. Adjust the level of the chair so your feet are flat on the floor. A  
footrest may make you more comfortable. Sit in a relaxed, upright posture  
and avoid slouching forward or leaning far backward.  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
Viewing angle of the computer’s display — Use the display’s tilting  
feature to find the best position. You can reduce eye strain and muscle  
fatigue by adjusting the tilt of the display to the proper position. Adjust the  
brightness setting of the display also.  
Lighting — Choose a location where windows and lights do not create glare  
and reflection on the display. Use indirect lighting to avoid bright spots on  
the display. You can also purchase accessories for your display that help  
reduce glare. Proper lighting adds to your comfort and work effectiveness.  
Placement of an external display — When using an external display, set  
the display at a comfortable viewing distance. Make sure the display screen  
is at eye level or slightly lower when you are sitting in front of the monitor.  
Notes on Setup  
Do not place your computer in a location subject to:  
Heat sources, such as radiators or air ducts  
Direct sunlight  
Excessive dust  
Moisture or rain  
Mechanical vibration or shock  
Strong magnets or speakers that are not magnetically shielded  
Ambient temperature of more than 95º F (35º C) or less than 18º F  
(10º C)  
High humidity  
Do not place electronic equipment near your computer. The computer’s  
electromagnetic field may cause a malfunction.  
Provide adequate air circulation to prevent internal heat buildup. Do not  
place your computer on porous surfaces such as rugs or blankets, or near  
materials such as curtains or draperies that may block its ventilation slots.  
Leave a space of at least 8 inches (20 cm) behind the back panel of the  
computer.  
If the computer is brought directly from a cold location to a warm one,  
moisture may condense inside your computer. In this case, allow at least an  
hour before turning on your computer. If any problems occur, unplug your  
computer, and contact your Sony Service Center.  
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Ergonomic Considerations  
The computer uses high-frequency radio signals and may cause interference  
to radio or TV reception. Should this occur, relocate the computer a suitable  
distance away from the set.  
Use only specified peripheral equipment and interface cables; otherwise,  
problems may result.  
Do not use cut or damaged connection cables.  
If the telephone company makes a service call to your home or office and  
determines that your computer is responsible for a problem, the telephone  
company may bill you for the service call. Also, if you do not disconnect  
your computer when it is adversely affecting the telephone line, the  
telephone company has the right to disconnect your service until you correct  
the problem.  
Handling Your Notebook  
Clean the cabinet with a soft, dry cloth or a soft cloth lightly moistened with  
a mild detergent solution. Do not use any type of abrasive pad, scouring  
powder, or solvent such as alcohol or benzine, as these may damage the  
finish of your computer.  
Should any solid object or liquid fall into the computer, shut down your  
computer and then unplug it. You may want to have the computer checked by  
qualified personnel before operating it any further.  
Do not drop the computer or place heavy objects on top of the computer.  
Cleaning Your Notebook  
Make sure to disconnect the power cord before cleaning the computer.  
Avoid rubbing the LCD screen as this can damage the screen. Use a soft, dry  
cloth to wipe the LCD screen.  
Clean the computer with a soft cloth lightly moistened with a mild detergent  
solution. Do not use any type of abrasive pad, scouring powder or solvent,  
such as alcohol or benzine.  
Handling the LCD Screen  
Do not leave the LCD facing the sun as it can damage the LCD. Be careful  
when using the computer near a window.  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
Do not scratch the LCD or exert pressure on it. This could cause  
malfunction.  
Using the computer in low temperature conditions may produce a residual  
image on the screen. This is not a malfunction. When the computer returns to  
normal temperature, the screen returns to normal.  
The screen becomes warm during operation. This is normal and does not  
indicate a malfunction.  
The LCD is manufactured using high-precision technology. You may,  
however, see tiny black points and/or bright points (red, blue, or green) that  
continuously appear on the LCD. This is a normal result of the  
manufacturing process and does not indicate a malfunction.  
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Setting Up Your VAIO® Notebook  
This section describes how to start using your notebook and how to use your  
computer’s internal and external devices, such as the touchpad, floppy disk drive,  
and DVD-ROM drive.  
Locating Controls and Connectors  
Front  
1
LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) screen  
Speakers  
2
3
Keyboard  
4
Touchpad  
5
Left/right buttons  
Power indicator  
6
7
Battery 1 and 2 indicators  
Hard disk drive indicator  
Num Lock indicator  
Caps Lock indicator  
Scroll Lock indicator  
8
9
10  
11  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
Left  
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
i.LINK® (IEEE1394) S400 connector  
Infrared port  
Video out  
Headphone connector  
Microphone connector  
PC card slots  
Battery bay  
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Locating Controls and Connectors  
Right  
1
2
3
4
PPK buttons  
Power button  
DVD-ROM drive  
Multipurpose bay  
Back  
cover  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Modem jack  
PS/2 Mouse/Keyboard connector  
Serial connector  
Printer connector  
Monitor connector  
USB connectors  
DC In connector  
There is a ventilation slot located between the USB connector and the DC In connector.  
Do not cover the ventilation slot when your computer is on.  
Bottom  
1
2
3
Port replicator connector cover  
Multipurpose bay RELEASE lever  
Tilt stands  
24  
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Connecting a Power Source  
Connecting a Power Source  
You can use either AC power or a rechargeable battery pack as a power source.  
Using the AC Adapter  
1
Plug the cable attached to the AC adapter into the DC In connector on the  
computer.  
2
3
Plug one end of the power cord into the AC adapter.  
Plug the other end of the power cord into an AC outlet.  
Connecting the AC adapter  
Notebook  
AC adapter  
(supplied)  
Power cord (supplied)  
DC In  
Notes on the AC Adapter  
Your computer operates on 100V-240V AC 50/60 Hz.  
Do not share the AC outlet with other power-consuming equipment, such as  
a copy machine or shredder.  
You can purchase a power strip with a surge protector. This device prevents  
damage to your computer caused by sudden power surges such as those that  
may occur during an electrical storm.  
Do not place heavy objects on the power cord.  
To disconnect the cord, pull it out by the plug. Never pull the cord itself.  
Unplug your computer from the wall outlet if you will not be using the  
computer for a long time.  
When the AC adapter is not used, unplug it from the AC outlet.  
Use only the AC adapter supplied. Do not use any other AC adapter.  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
Using Battery Power  
You can use one or two battery packs as a source of power. The second battery  
pack inserts into the multipurpose bay on the right side of the computer. (See  
“Power Saving Modes” on page 77.) Additional battery packs are available as a  
separate option.  
The battery pack that comes with your computer is not fully charged at the time  
of purchase. Follow the steps below to insert and charge the battery pack.  
To insert the battery pack  
1
To open the battery bay, press cover down.  
Cover swings out but does not detach.  
Battery bay  
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Connecting a Power Source  
2
Insert the battery pack into the battery bay on the left side of the computer.  
Inserting battery pack  
Battery pack  
(supplied)  
Label side facing down  
3
Close the cover of the battery bay until it clicks.  
If the port replicator is attached to your computer, do not attempt to insert or remove  
the battery pack. Lifting and turning the computer with a port replicator attached could  
cause a temporary loss of power.  
To charge the battery pack  
1
2
Connect the AC adapter to the computer.  
Insert the battery pack.  
The computer automatically charges the battery (the battery indicator light flashes in a  
double blink pattern as the battery charges).  
3
When the battery is 85% full, the battery indicator light turns off. This  
process takes approximately two hours.  
To charge the battery completely, continue charging for an additional hour. See  
“Displaying Battery Information” in the online manual “Customizing Your VAIO®  
Notebook” .  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
There are two battery indicator lights on the computer  
Battery indicator lights  
Battery indicators  
Secondary battery pack  
(optional)  
Battery pack (supplied)  
Battery  
Indicator  
Meaning  
1
Indicates the status of the battery pack in the battery bay on the  
left side of the computer.  
2
Indicates the status of the battery pack in the multipurpose bay on  
the right side of the computer.  
Battery  
Indicator Light  
Status  
Meaning  
On  
The computer is using battery power.  
The battery is running out of power.  
The battery is charging.  
Single blink  
Double blink  
Off  
The computer is using AC power.  
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Connecting a Power Source  
To remove the battery pack  
1
2
Open the battery bay cover.  
Pull out the battery pack.  
Removing the battery pack  
3
Close the cover of the battery bay.  
You will lose data if you remove the battery pack while the computer is on  
and not connected to the AC adapter or if you remove the battery while the  
computer is in a power-saving mode  
Notes on the battery  
To determine the remaining battery charge, see “Displaying Battery  
Information” in the online manual “Customizing Your VAIO® Notebook”  
When the battery power is running low, both the battery and power  
indicators blink.  
When the computer is directly connected to AC power and has a battery pack  
in the battery bay, it uses power from the AC outlet.  
See “Power Saving Modes” on page 77 for information on installing and  
charging a battery pack in the multipurpose bay.  
Keep the battery pack in the computer while it is directly connected to AC  
power. The battery pack continues to charge while you are using the  
computer.  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
If the battery level falls below 10%, you should either attach the AC adapter  
to recharge the battery or shut down your computer and insert a fully charged  
battery.  
You can extend battery life by changing the power-management modes in the  
PowerPanel utility. See “Power Saving Modes” on page 77.  
The battery pack supplied with your computer is a lithium-ion battery and  
can be recharged at any time. Charging a partially discharged battery does  
not affect battery life.  
The battery indicator light is on while you use the battery pack as a power  
source. When battery life is nearly depleted, the battery indicator starts  
flashing.  
For some software applications and some peripheral devices, your computer  
may not enter System Hibernation mode when the battery life is low. To  
avoid loss of data when using battery power, you should save your data  
frequently and manually activate a power-management mode, such as  
System Suspend or System Hibernation.  
Never leave the battery pack in temperatures above 140° F (60° C), such as  
under direct sunlight or in a car parked in the sun.  
Battery life is shorter in a cold environment. This is due to decreased battery  
efficiency at low temperatures.  
Charge the batteries at temperatures between 50° F and 80° F (10° C to  
30° C). Lower temperatures require a longer charging time.  
While the battery is in use or being discharged, the battery pack heats up.  
This is normal and is not cause for concern.  
Keep the battery pack away from all sources of heat.  
Keep the battery pack dry.  
Do not open or try to disassemble the battery pack.  
Do not expose the battery pack to any mechanical shock.  
If you are not using the computer for an extended period of time, remove the  
battery pack from the computer to prevent damage to the battery.  
If, after fully charging the battery pack, the battery power is still low, the  
battery pack may be reaching the end of its life and should be replaced.  
You do not need to discharge the battery before recharging.  
If you have not used the battery pack for a considerable amount of time,  
recharge the battery.  
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Starting Your Computer  
Starting Your Computer  
1
Slide the LCD lock lever in the direction of the arrow, and lift the cover.  
Opening the computer  
LCD lock lever  
Power  
button  
2
Press the power button on top of the computer until the green power  
indicator light turns on.  
When starting your notebook for the first time, the VAIO InitManager dialog box will  
appear. Please select “OK” to begin initial setup. If you do not execute the initial setup,  
you cannot use VAIO original hardware functions such as PPK, Power Management  
tools, the scroll function of the touchpad, and keyboard shortcut key combined with  
Fn key.  
Power button  
Power indicator  
Power button  
If you hold the power button in the On position for more than four seconds, the  
computer turns off.  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
3
If necessary, adjust the brightness controls for the LCD display:  
Decrease brightness, press Fn+F5 and then the down or left arrow key.  
Increase brightness, press Fn+F5 and then the up or right arrow key.  
Shutting Down Your Computer  
To avoid potential loss of data, follow these steps to shut down your computer.  
1
2
Click the Start button on the Windows® taskbar.  
Click Shut Down at the bottom of the Start menu to display the Shut Down  
Windows dialog box.  
3
4
Select Shut down.  
Click OK.  
Respond to any prompts warning you to save documents.  
5
6
Wait for your computer to turn off automatically—power indicator turns off.  
Turn off any peripherals connected to your computer.  
During a period of inactivity, you can conserve battery life by using System Suspend  
mode. See “Controlling Power Management” in the online manual “Customizing Your  
VAIO® Notebook” .  
If you are unable to shut down your computer:  
1
Close or end all operations:  
close all applications  
remove the PC cards  
disconnect USB devices  
end Infrared Communication  
2
Then, restart the computer. You can restart your computer by pressing  
Ctrl+Alt+Delete keys (at the same time).  
If you are still unable to shut down the computer, you can press the power button and  
hold it for four seconds. This operation may result in data loss.  
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Using Your VAIO® Notebook  
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  
Correction  
keys  
Function keys  
Escape Key  
Print Screen key  
Shift key  
Ctrl key  
Fn key  
Applications key  
Navigation  
keys  
Alt key  
Windows key  
Numeric keypad area  
Key  
Description  
Numeric keypad  
area  
Contains the keys found on a typical calculator. Use the 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. (When  
you do so, the Num Lock light will be on.)  
Navigation keys  
Correction keys  
Several keys are devoted to moving the cursor on the screen.  
The Insert, Back Space, and Delete keys enable you to make  
corrections in your documents.  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
Key  
Description  
Function keys  
The twelve function keys along the top of the keyboard are used  
to perform designated tasks. For example, in many applications,  
F1 is the Help key. The task associated with each function key  
may vary from one application to the next.  
Escape key  
The Esc (Escape) key is used to cancel commands.  
Print Screen key  
The Print Screen key takes an electronic snapshot of the screen  
and places it in the Windows Clipboard. You can then paste the  
screen shot into a document and print it.  
Operator keys  
Several keys are always used with at least one other key: Ctrl,  
Alt, and Shift. When held down with another key, the Ctrl  
(Control) and Alt (Alternate) keys offer another way to give  
commands. For example, in many applications, instead of  
choosing the Save command from a menu, you can hold down  
Ctrl and press S (referred to as Ctrl+S). The Shift key operates  
the same way as on a typewriter; it is used to produce capital  
letters or special symbols such as @ and $.  
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” on page 34.  
Fn key  
The Fn key is used in combination with other keys to issue  
commands. See “Combinations and Functions with the Fn Key”  
on page 36.  
Applications key  
The Applications key displays a shortcut menu of context-  
sensitive choices. Pressing this key is the equivalent of clicking  
the right mouse button.  
Combinations and Functions with the Windows Key  
Combination  
+ F1  
Function  
Displays Windows Help.  
Switches the selected button on the taskbar.  
Displays Windows Explorer.  
+ Tab  
+ E  
+ F  
Displays the Windows Find: All Files window to find a file or  
folder. This is the equivalent of selecting Find and then Files or  
Folders from the Start menu.  
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Using the Keyboard  
Combination  
Function  
+ Ctrl + F  
Displays the Windows Find: Computer window where you can  
locate other computers. This is the equivalent of selecting Find  
and then Computer from the Start menu.  
+ M  
Minimizes all displayed windows.  
Shift +  
+ R  
+ M  
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 Properties window. This is the equivalent of double-  
clicking the System icon in the Control Panel.  
Indicators  
Indicator  
Function  
Power  
Light is green when the power to the computer is turned on.  
Light is red in System Idle mode, and flashes red in System  
Suspend mode. The light turns off when the computer is in  
System Hibernation mode or powered off.  
Battery 1  
Indicates the status of the battery inserted in the battery  
bay on the left side of the computer.  
1
Battery 2  
Indicates the status of the battery inserted in the  
multipurpose drive bay on the right side of the computer.  
2
Hard disk  
Lights when data is being read from or written to the hard  
drive. Do not enter System Suspend mode or turn off the  
computer when this indicator light is on.  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
Indicator (continued)  
Light  
On  
Off  
Num Lock  
The number keys in the  
The alphanumeric  
numeric keypad are active.  
character keys in the  
keypad area are active.  
Caps Lock  
Scroll Lock  
The letters appear in uppercase  
as you type. The Shift key  
lowers the case of typed letters  
when Caps Lock is on.  
Letters appear in lower  
case as you type (unless  
you hold down the Shift  
key).  
The screen scrolls differently.  
(Exactly how it scrolls depends  
on the specific application. It  
has no effect in many  
Information moves  
across the display  
normally.  
applications.)  
Combinations and Functions with the Fn Key  
Combinations/  
Feature  
Function  
Fn+  
(ESC)  
Puts the system into System Suspend mode, a power-  
System Suspend management state. To return the system to the active  
state, press any key or press the power button on your  
computer.  
Fn+  
(F2)  
Displays the power source status, as in the example below:  
Display power  
source status  
Charging a  
battery pack  
Using AC  
power  
Fn+  
Mute On/Off  
Fn+ (F4)  
Speaker volume  
(F3)  
Toggles the built-in speaker off and on.  
Adjusts the built-in speaker volume.  
To increase volume, press Fn+F4, then  
To decrease volume, press Fn+F4, then  
or  
or  
.
.
Fn+  
(F5)  
Adjusts the brightness of the LCD.  
Brightness  
control  
To increase light intensity, press Fn+F5 and then or  
To decrease light intensity, press Fn+F5 and then or  
.
.
Adjust the screen contrast.  
Fn+  
(F6)  
Contrast control  
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Using the Keyboard  
Combinations and Functions with the Fn Key (Continued)  
Combinations/  
Feature  
Function  
LCD  
Fn+  
(F7)  
/
Toggles through the LCD, external display (connected to  
the  
Monitor connector) and both LCD and external  
Switch to the  
display.  
external  
monitor/LCD  
LCD and external display  
Only external display  
Only LCD  
LCD  
Fn+  
only/  
Toggles between LCD-only and dual LCD/TV display  
modes.  
(F8)  
Control TV out  
LCD and external display  
Only LCD  
Only external display  
Fn+  
System  
Hibernation  
(F12)  
Provides for the lowest level of power consumption.  
When you execute this command, the state of the system  
and state of the peripheral devices are written to the hard  
disk and the system power is turned off. To return the  
system to its original state, use the power button to turn on  
power.  
Fn+D  
Video standby  
Turns off the LCD to save power. To turn the LCD back on,  
press any key.  
Fn+S  
System Idle  
Puts the system into System Idle mode, a power-  
management state. To return the system to the active  
state, press any key.  
Some functions are not available until Windows launches.  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
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  
Pointer  
Touchpad  
Right button  
Left button  
Action  
Description  
Point  
Slide one finger on the touchpad to place the pointer on an  
item or object.  
Click  
Press the left button once.  
Press the left button twice.  
Double-click  
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Using the Touchpad  
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. Move your finger along the bottom to  
scroll horizontally. (The scroll function is available only  
with applications that support a touchpad scroll feature.)  
See Mouse Properties for information on touchpad features, such as clicking both  
buttons simultaneously, adjusting touchpad speed, and Easy Launcher functions. To  
access Mouse Properties, click the Start button, point to Settings, point to Control  
Panel, and then click the Mouse icon in the Control Panel.  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
Using the Floppy Disk Drive  
Your computer comes with the floppy disk drive in the multipurpose bay.  
To insert a diskette  
1
2
Hold the diskette the label side facing up.  
Gently push the diskette into the drive until it clicks into place.  
Diskette  
Floppy disk drive  
To remove a diskette  
When you finish using the diskette, wait until the LED indicator light turns  
off and then press the Eject button to remove the diskette.  
Eject button  
LED indicator  
Do not push the eject button when the LED indicator is turned on. Otherwise,  
data maybe lost.  
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Using the Floppy Disk Drive  
To remove the floppy disk drive  
1
2
Turn off the computer.  
There is a RELEASE lever on the bottom of the computer. Slide this lever in  
the direction of the arrow.  
Multipurpose bay release lever  
Multipurpose RELEASE lever  
3
4
Slide the drive out of the multipurpose bay.  
Insert the weight saver. See “Using the Weight Saver” on page 56.  
To reinsert the floppy disk drive  
1
2
Turn off the computer.  
If another device is in the multipurpose bay, remove the device. See “To  
remove the second battery pack” on page 54.  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
3
Insert the floppy disk drive into the multipurpose bay with the VAIO label  
facing up. Continue pushing the drive into the bay until the RELEASE lever  
locks into place.  
Inserting the floppy disk drive  
Multipurpose bay  
Floppy disk drive  
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Using the DVD-ROM Drive  
Using the DVD-ROM Drive  
Your computer comes with a DVD-ROM drive, which plays both DVD and CD.  
To insert a disc  
1
Turn on the computer.  
When the computer is in System Suspend or System Hibernation mode, you  
cannot insert a disc. See “Controlling Power Management” in the online manual  
“Customizing Your VAIO® Notebook” for more information on System Suspend  
and System Hibernation modes.  
2
Press the Eject button to open the DVD-ROM drive.  
The tray slides out.  
DVD eject  
Eject button  
3
Place a CD or DVD on the tray with the label side facing up. For DVDs  
which can be played on both sides, the side of the disc facing up is the side  
that plays.  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
4
Push the disc onto the hub until the disc clicks securely into place.  
Inserting a DVD/CD  
Label side  
facing up  
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Using the DVD-ROM Drive  
5
Close the tray by pushing it gently.  
Be sure to seat the disc firmly over the hub fingers. If you do not seat the disc firmly,  
you could damage your DVD-ROM drive and you may not be able to open the tray.  
When you finish using a disc, wait until the LED indicator light turns off, then press the  
Eject button to remove the disc.  
When the computer is in Power Saving modes, you cannot remove a disc. See  
“Controlling Power Management” in the online manual “Customizing Your VAIO®  
Notebook” for more information about Power Saving modes.  
If the disc does not come out when you press the Eject button, turn off the computer  
and insert a thin, pointed object into the manual eject hole.  
Manual eject hole  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
Playing a DVD  
To achieve optimum performance when playing DVDs, it is recommended that  
your computer not be connected to the port replicator while playing 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. See “Controlling  
Power Management” in the online manual “Customizing Your VAIO® Notebook” for  
information on how to set the power management profile.  
You can play DVDs using a DVD-ROM drive and the Media Bar software.  
See the online manual that came with the Media Bar software for details.  
Some discs recorded at 20 or 24 bits may produce noise while playing. If you have  
audio devices connected, this may cause damage to your hearing and the speakers.  
Reduce the volume before playing such discs.  
You cannot switch between LCD and TV if you press Fn+F8 when a DVD is inserted in  
the DVD-ROM drive.  
If you have connected a TV, follow the instructions in “Selecting the Display  
Mode” in the online manual Customizing Your VAIO® Notebook.  
When a TV is connected, a part of the video screen will not appear with the  
factory setting. Adjust the display resolution to 1024 x 768 as described in the  
online manual “Customizing Your VAIO® Notebook” .  
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Using the DVD-ROM Drive  
Notes on CD and DVD media  
Do not drop or bend the disc.  
Do not touch the surface of the disc. Fingerprints and dust on the surface of a  
disc may cause read errors. Proper care of the disc is essential to maintain its  
reliability. Do not use solvents such as benzine, thinner, commercially  
available cleaners or anti-static spray, as they may cause damage to the disc.  
For normal cleaning, hold the disc by its edge and use a soft cloth to wipe the  
surface from the center out.  
If the disc is badly soiled, moisten a soft cloth with water, wring it out well,  
and use it to wipe the surface of the disc from the center out. Wipe off any  
remaining moisture with a dry soft cloth  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
Using PC Cards  
Your computer includes two PC card slots. PC cards allow you to connect  
portable external devices such as another hard disk drive, or to connect a  
network.  
The PC card slots can accommodate two Type II PC cards, or one Type III PC card.  
These slots are compatible with Card Bus. Use the lower slot for Type III PC cards. You  
do not need to shut down your notebook before inserting or removing a PC card.  
To insert a PC card  
1
Pull the PC card release button out from the computer, and then push it in  
toward the computer. This will extend the PC card slot protector.  
PC card release lever  
2
Remove the PC card slot protector.  
When you use a Type III PC card, you need to remove both the top and  
bottom PC card slot protectors.  
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Using PC Cards  
PC card slot protector  
3
4
Insert the PC card into the PC card slot, front label facing up. Gently push  
the card into the slot until the card is fixed into the connector.  
The release button extends. Fold the release button back down into the  
notebook.  
Inserting a PC card  
Insert with the  
arrow facing forward  
PC card  
Do not force a PC card into the slot as this may damage the connector pins.  
Do not carry your computer while touching the head of a PC card (such as a  
wireless LAN card), pressure or shock may damage the connector pins.  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
To remove a PC card  
If your computer is turned off, you do not have to follow these instructions.  
1
2
3
Double-click  
in the system task tray.  
The “Unplug or Eject hardware” dialog box appears.  
In the Unplug or Eject Hardware dialog box, select the appropriate option,  
and then click Stop.  
4
5
Confirm the device and click OK.  
A message appears informing you that the device can now be safely removed  
from the system.  
6
Press the PC card RELEASE button to remove the PC card.  
Notes on using PC cards  
For some PC cards, if you alternate between normal power operation and the  
System Suspend or System Hibernation power-management modes while  
the card is inserted, you may find that a device connected to your system is  
not recognized. 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” in the online manual “Customizing Your  
VAIO® Notebook” for details.  
Be sure to use the most recent software driver provided by the PC card  
manufacturer.  
If an “!” mark appears on the Device Manager tab in the System Properties  
dialog box, remove the software driver and then reinstall it.  
You may not be able to use some PC cards or some functions of the PC card  
with this computer. If you have difficulty inserting a card, check that you are  
orienting the card correctly. See the manual that came with your PC card for  
more information on use.  
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Using Infrared Communication Devices  
Using Infrared Communication Devices  
Your computer includes an infrared port, located on the left side. You can use this  
port to communicate with other infrared-equipped devices with compatible  
protocols, such as a digital still camera or other computers.  
To use infrared communication with another computer  
1
Align the infrared ports on the two computers so that they are in a direct line.  
Connecting with Infrared  
Infrared communication capability can be turned on and off. By default, it is disabled  
when your system is shipped. Use the infrared icon in the Windows Control Panel to  
enable/disable infrared communication.  
To enable infrared  
1
Click Wireless Link icon in the Windows Control Panel.  
Wireless link dialogue box displays.  
2
Select File Transfer Options Allow others to send files to your computer  
using infrared communications and/or Display status while receiving files.  
3
4
Click OK.  
Infrared Monitor icon appears in the task tray, open the monitor to verify that  
your computer has detected a nearby unit.  
5
Once another unit is detected, your computer is ready to send/receive data.  
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Infrared range  
Infrared port  
approximately  
15 degrees  
Notes on using the Infrared Port  
If the devices are too far apart or too close together, data transfer may be  
interrupted or there may be noise in the transmission. The active area of  
infrared transmission extends about 39 /8 inches (1 meter) with a radius of  
3
approximately 15 degrees.  
Covering the infrared ports with your hand or any other object will disrupt  
data transfer.  
Avoid direct sunlight, fluorescent light, or flashing incandescent light near  
the infrared ports.  
Disable infrared communication when you are not using it to conserve  
battery life.  
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 computer with battery power. When  
using two battery packs, the battery pack you insert first charges first. The battery  
pack you insert second charges when the first battery pack is 85 percent full. You  
can monitor which battery pack is charging by observing the battery indicator  
lights.  
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Using a Second Battery Pack  
To insert a second battery pack  
1
2
If another device is in the multipurpose bay, remove the device.  
Insert the battery pack into the multipurpose bay.  
If the battery is being used, the battery 2 indicator light turns on.  
Second battery in multipurpose bay  
Multipurpose bay  
Battery pack  
Label side facing down  
3
Attach the weight saver to the computer to stabilize the battery pack. There  
is a RELEASE lever on the bottom of the weight saver. Slide the lever  
toward the front of the computer to lock the weight saver. See also “Using  
the Weight Saver” on page 56.  
Using weight saver for second battery cover  
Battery pack  
Weight saver  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
To charge the second battery pack  
Keep the battery pack in the computer while it is connected to AC power. The  
battery indicator flashes while the battery is charging. See also “To charge the  
battery pack” on page 27 for more information.  
Charging the second battery  
Battery indicators  
Second battery pack  
(optional)  
Battery pack (supplied)  
To determine the amount of time the battery lasts, see “Displaying Battery  
Information” in the online manual “Customizing Your VAIO® Notebook” .  
To remove the second battery pack  
If you attach two battery packs, you can remove either of them without shutting  
down the computer. When removing one battery pack, make sure that the other  
battery pack’s indicator light is on. If the indicator light of the battery pack you  
are removing is on, right-click the battery icon on the task tray and click the  
“Switch discharge battery” option.  
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Using a Second Battery Pack  
1
There is a Release lever on the bottom of the weight saver. To remove the  
battery pack, slide this lever in the direction of arrow 1, then slide the  
RELEASE lever on the bottom of the computer in the direction of arrow 2.  
Multipurpose bay release levers  
Arrow 1: Weight saver Release lever  
Arrow 2: RELEASE lever  
2
3
Remove the weight saver, and then pull out the battery pack.  
Reinsert the weight saver. See “Using the Weight Saver” on page 56.  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
Using the Weight Saver  
The weight saver protects the multipurpose bay when it is empty.  
To attach the weight saver  
1
If another device is in the multipurpose bay, remove the device. See “To  
remove the second battery pack” on page 54.  
2
Fold out the hinged arm of the weight saver and then push on the hinged arm  
to lock it into place. Slide the weight saver in the direction of the arrow until  
it clicks.  
Inserting the weight saver  
Weight saver (supplied)  
3
Manually lock the weight saver’s Release lever.  
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Using the Weight Saver  
To remove the Weight Saver  
1
There is a release lever on the bottom of the weight saver. To remove the  
weight saver, slide this lever in the direction of arrow 1, then slide the  
Release lever on the bottom of the computer in the direction of arrow 2.  
Multipurpose bay release levers  
Arrow 1: Weight saver Release lever  
Arrow 2: Release lever  
2
After removing the weight saver, pull out the weight saver’s hinged arm and  
fold it into the weight saver.  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
Using Smart Connect  
Windows Me™  
You can connect your VAIO® notebook to another VAIO computer that has the  
preinstalled Windows Me operating system or the Sony Smart Connect 3.0  
software preinstalled. You may use an i.LINK® cable (optional) to connect the  
two systems and then use one computer to edit, copy, or delete files on the other  
computer. You can also print from a printer that is attached to either computer.  
Select the STD mode in Smart Connect 3.0 software to connect with another  
computer that has Windows Me preinstalled.  
Connecting with an i.Link cable  
i.LINK cable  
When you connect two VAIO computers, you must assign each computer a unique  
name. The computers can be identified by this unique name when the two computers  
are networked together.  
If you have previously purchased a VAIO computer or notebook that does not have the  
Windows Me operating system or Smart Connect 3.0 software preinstalled, consult  
the Sony website for support options (http://www.sony.com/pcsupport).  
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Connecting Peripheral Devices  
You can add functionality to your computer by connecting any of these  
peripherals:  
i.LINK device (page 60)  
Phone line (page 62)  
Local Area Network (LAN) (page 63)  
Printer (page 63)  
Mouse or keyboard (page 65)  
External display (page 66)  
AV devices (page 69)  
Port replicator (page 70)  
Speakers (page 74)  
Microphone (page 75)  
Universal Serial Bus (USB) device (page 76)  
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Connecting an i.LINK® Device  
You can connect an i.LINK-enabled digital video camera recorder to  
the i.LINK® S400 (IEEE1394) connector.  
To connect a digital video camera recorder  
Plug one end of the i.LINK cable (not supplied) into the i.LINK connector  
on the left side of the computer and the other end into the DV In/Out  
connector on the digital video camera recorder.  
i.LINK cables compatible with your VAIO notebook include cables with the following  
part numbers: VMC-IL4415 (a 1.5-meter cable with a 4-pin connector at each end),  
VMC-IL4615 (a 1.5 meter-cable with a 4-pin connector at one end and a 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).  
Connecting digital video camera recorder to i.LINK connector  
Digital video  
camera recorder  
to i.LINK  
to DV In/Out  
i.LINK cable  
(optional)  
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Connecting an i.LINK® Device  
The Sony digital video camera recorder is pictured; you may need to connect your  
camera differently.  
On Sony digital video cameras, connectors labeled “DV In/Out” or “i.LINK” are i.LINK-  
compatible.  
See the manual that came with your digital video camera recorder for more  
information on installation and use.  
Do not connect more than one digital video camera at a time. The software supplied  
with your computer will not recognize multiple cameras.  
The i.LINK connector on the computer does not supply power to external devices. If  
the external device requires power from the i.LINK connector, you cannot use the  
device with the computer.  
The computer supports transfer rates up to 400 Mbps; however, the actual transfer  
rate is the lowest transfer rate of the external device.  
The i.LINK features available may vary depending on the software applications you  
use. See the documentation that came with your software for more information.  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
Connecting a Phone Line  
You need to connect a phone line to take advantage of online services and the  
Internet.  
In order to register your Sony VAIO notebook, register your software online, and use  
Sony Customer Support, you must connect to a phone line.  
1
Plug one end of the phone cable into the phone line jack on the computer.  
Connecting phone cable  
Phone line jack  
Wall jack  
Phone cable (optional)  
2
Plug the other end into the wall jack.  
Your computer does not work with party lines, cannot be connected to a coin-operated  
telephone, and may not work with multiple phone lines or a private branch exchange  
(PBX). Some of these connections may result in excess electrical current and could  
cause a malfunction in the internal modem.  
If you connect a phone line coming through a splitter, the modem or connected device  
may not work properly.  
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Using Ethernet to Connect to a Network  
Using Ethernet to Connect to a Network  
You can exchange data with other devices on a network by connecting your  
notebook to your Local Area Network (LAN).  
To connect the notebook to a network, you need a network PC card or a port  
replicator (PCGA-PRF1A). For more information on using PC cards, see “Using  
PC Cards” on page 48 . Consult the network system administrator to find out  
about the accessory settings required to access the network.  
Setting Up Your Ethernet Connection  
1
2
3
4
5
Right-click Network Neighborhood and select Properties.  
Click Add to add a client, adapter, protocol, or service.  
Click File and Print Sharing to enable these functions.  
Select a Primary Network Logon.  
Click the Identification tab to set the computer name, workgroup, and  
computer description.  
6
Click the Access Control tab to set the share level or user level access  
control.  
Connecting a Printer  
You can connect a Windows Me-compatible printer to your computer to print  
documents.  
To connect a printer  
Use the  
symbol to locate the Printer connector. Plug the printer cable  
(supplied with the printer) into this port on the computer.  
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Printer connector  
Power cord  
Printer  
Printer cable  
(supplied with the printer)  
to  
Printer  
See the manual that came with your printer for more information on installation and  
use.  
If your printer stops functioning after resuming from a power-saving mode, see  
“Troubleshooting the printer” on page 111.  
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” in the  
online manual “Customizing Your VAIO® Notebook” .  
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Connecting an External Mouse or Keyboard  
Connecting an External Mouse or Keyboard  
You can connect a USB or PS/2® style mouse or keyboard.  
Plug the keyboard cable or mouse cable into the appropriate connector with  
the mark facing up.  
USB and PS/2 ports  
USB  
PS/2  
Mouse  
Keyboard  
To connect both a PS/2 mouse and keyboard at the same time, use an optional PS/  
2 division connector.  
You can also use one or both of the USB ports to connect a mouse and keyboard  
at the same time.  
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See “Using the Keyboard” on page 33 for more information on using the keyboard.  
See the manual that came with your mouse or keyboard for more information on  
installation and use.  
Before you connect or disconnect the mouse or keyboard, turn off the computer.  
Do not connect or disconnect the PS/2 device (keyboard or mouse) when the  
computer is on. It may cause malfunction.  
A Sony USB mouse PCGA-UMS1 series(not supplied) is a USB device. You must  
connect it to the USB connector.  
Connecting an External Display  
You can connect an external display to your notebook. For example, you can use  
the computer with any of the following:  
Computer display (monitor) (page 66)  
Multimedia computer display (page 67)  
Projector (page 67)  
To connect a computer display  
Use the  
symbol on the back of the computer to locate the Monitor  
connector. Plug the display cable (not supplied) into this connector on the  
back of the computer.  
If necessary, plug one end of the display power cord into the display, and the  
other end into an AC outlet.  
Connecting an external computer display  
Computer display  
Power cord  
to  
Display cable (optional)  
Monitor  
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Connecting an External Display  
See the manual that came with your computer display for more information on  
installation and use.  
To connect a multimedia computer display  
You can connect the notebook to a multimedia computer display that includes  
built-in speakers and a microphone.  
1
2
3
Use the  
into this connector.  
symbol to locate the Monitor connector. Plug the display cable  
Use the symbol to locate the Headphone connector. Plug the speaker cable  
into this connector.  
Use the symbol to locate the Microphone connector. Plug the microphone  
cable into this connector.  
See the manual that came with your multimedia computer display for more  
information on installation and use.  
To connect a projector  
You can use a projector, such as the Sony LCD Projector, as an external display.  
Connecting projector  
Projector  
to  
to  
Monitor  
Power cord  
RGB signal cable (optional) Audio cable (optional)  
See the manual that came with your projector for more information on installation and use.  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
To select a display  
When you connect an external display to the monitor connector, 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” in  
the online manual “Customizing Your VAIO® Notebook” for more information.  
To  
Press  
Result  
Switch to an  
external  
display  
Fn+F7  
Toggles between the LCD, the external display  
connected to the Monitor connector, or both the  
LCD and external display.  
LCD and external display  
Only external display  
Only LCD  
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AV Devices  
AV Devices  
You can enjoy playing audio/video by connecting AV devices to your computer.  
See also the manuals supplied with your AV devices.  
To Connect a TV  
Connect the computer to a TV using audio/video cables. Switch the input  
channel of the TV to external input. You also need to set up the TV  
configuration system.  
To AC  
To audio input  
Power cord  
Audio cable  
(not supplied)  
To video input  
Video cable (supplied)  
See the manual that came with your peripheral device for more information on  
installation and use.  
If you insert a DVD in your DVD drive to watch a video on your TV, the Fn+F8 key  
combination might not activate the function to toggle between your LCD and TV. Take  
the following steps:  
1. Eject your DVD from your computer.  
2. Once the DVD is ejected, toggle between your LCD and your TV with the  
combination Fn+F8.  
Your image displays now on both LCD and TV. Re-insert your DVD to launch you DVD  
software.  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
Connecting the Port Replicator  
Your notebook supports the use of an optional port replicator (PCGA-PRF1A).  
Attaching a port replicator enables you to connect additional peripherals to your  
computer.  
Port replicator  
USB  
5
6
1
2
Network (Ethernet 10 Base T)  
Monitor  
Serial  
Mouse/Keyboard  
Printer  
DC In  
3
4
7
/
The port replicator can be powered only with an AC power adapter. Do not remove the  
AC adapter from the port replicator or the AC outlet while using the port replicator; this  
may cause data damage or hardware malfunctions.  
When you attach your computer to the port replicator for the first time, the installation  
of the network driver starts automatically.  
To attach your computer to the port replicator  
To supply power to your computer while it is connected to the port replicator, you  
can connect the AC adapter directly to the port replicator.  
When attaching your computer to the port replicator, do not attempt to insert or  
remove the battery pack. Lifting and turning the computer with an attached port  
replicator could cause a temporary loss of power.  
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Connecting the Port Replicator  
1
2
Turn off your computer and disconnect all peripheral devices.  
On the bottom of the computer, slide the port replicator connector cover  
open.  
Port replicator connector  
Port repilcator connector  
3
Attach the bottom of the computer to the port replicator connector until it  
clicks.  
Attaching computer to port replicator  
Notebook  
Port replicator  
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4
Plug the cable attached to the AC adapter into the DC IN connector on the port  
replicator. Plug the power cord into the AC adapter and an AC outlet.  
Connecting AC adaptor to port replicator  
AC adapter  
Power cord  
Use the AC adapter that comes with your computer or the optional Sony PCGA-  
AC19V1 adapter.  
The power indicator light turns green.  
Power indicator light  
Release lever  
Power  
Port replicator connector  
5
Turn on the computer.  
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Connecting the Port Replicator  
To remove your computer from the port replicator when the power is off  
1
2
Turn off your computer and the connected peripherals.  
Pull the levers on each side of the port replicator to disengage the computer  
from the port replicator.  
Disengaging computer from port replicator  
Lever  
3
Lift the computer away from the port replicator.  
Port replicator connector cover  
4
Close the port replicator connector cover on the bottom of your computer.  
It is extremely important to close the port replicator connector cover after removing  
your computer from the port replicator. If the cover is left open, dirt may get inside and  
damage the computer.  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
Connecting External Speakers  
You can enhance the sound quality of your computer by connecting external  
speakers.  
Make sure your speakers are designed for computer use  
Turn down the volume of the speakers before you turn them on.  
Do not place diskettes on the speakers; the speakers’ magnetic field may damage the  
data on the diskettes.  
To connect external speakers  
Use the symbol to locate the Headphone connector. Plug the speaker cable  
into this connector.  
Connecting speakers to Headphone connector  
Speakers  
Speaker cable  
(supplied with speakers)  
to  
Headphone  
See the manual that came with your speakers for more information on installation and  
use.  
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Connecting an External Microphone  
Connecting an External Microphone  
You can enhance the quality of sound input by using an external microphone.  
Make sure your microphone is designed for computer use. The microphone should be  
compliant with the plug-in power microphone.  
To connect an external microphone  
Use the to locate the Microphone connector. Plug the microphone  
cable into this connector.  
Connecting a microphone to microphone connector  
Microphone  
(optional)  
to Microphone  
See the manual that came with your microphone for more information on installation  
and use.  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) Device  
You can connect a USB device to your computer.  
To connect a USB device  
Use the symbol to locate the USB connector. Plug one end of the USB  
cable into this port and the other end into the USB device.  
Connecting USB device to USB connector  
USB device  
USB connecting cable  
(optional)  
to  
USB  
You can use the optional Sony USB mouse PCGA-UMS1 series with this  
computer. The USB mouse software driver is preinstalled in the computer.  
Therefore, you only need to plug the USB mouse into the USB connector.  
See the manual that came with your USB device for more information on installation  
and use.  
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Power Saving Modes  
Power Saving Modes  
When you use a battery as the source of power for your computer, 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  
computer has three distinct power saving modes: System Idle, System Suspend,  
and System Hibernation. When using battery power, be aware that the computer  
automatically enters System Hibernation mode when the remaining battery  
charge drops below 5 percent, regardless of the power management setting you  
select.  
If the battery level falls below 10 percent, you should either attach the AC adapter to  
recharge the battery or shut down your computer and insert a fully charged battery.  
Normal Mode  
Normal mode is the normal state of your computer when it is in use. The power  
indicator light displays green when your computer is in this mode. To save power,  
you can turn off a specific device such as the LCD or the hard disk.  
System Idle Mode  
Use the System Idle mode when your computer is not in use for a brief period.  
Selecting this option places your hard disk and video display in a low power  
state, and the CPU clock and processor stop. The power indicator light is umber  
in this mode.  
To activate System Idle mode  
To activate System Idle mode, press the key combination Fn+S, or use the  
PowerPanel utility to activate the System Idle mode.  
To return to normal mode  
Press any key to return to normal Mode.  
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System Suspend Mode  
In System Suspend Mode the computer saves the current state of the system in  
RAM and switches off power to the CPU. The umber power indicator light  
flashes in this mode.  
To activate System Suspend mode  
To activate System Suspend mode, press the key combination Fn+Esc, or press  
the power button and release it immediately. You can also use the PowerPanel  
utility to enter System Suspend mode.  
To return to normal mode  
Press any key to return to normal mode.  
System Hibernation Mode  
In the System Hibernation mode, the state of the system is saved on the hard  
drive and power is turned off. The power indicator light is off in this mode.  
To activate System Hibernation mode  
To activate System Hibernation mode, press the key combination Fn+F12.  
Do not move the notebook until its power indicator light turns off.  
To return to normal mode  
To return to normal mode, turn on the computer by pressing the power button.  
The computer returns to its previous state.  
When returning from System Hibernation mode, the system status stored on the hard  
disk is erased and the computer starts normally if you press the power button and  
hold for more than four seconds.  
Time required to return to normal mode  
System Idle requires less time than System Suspend, and System Suspend  
requires less time than System Hibernation to return to normal mode.  
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Power Saving Modes  
Power consumption  
System Idle uses more power than System Suspend, and System Suspend  
uses more power than System Hibernation.  
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Adding Memory  
In the future you may want to install memory modules to expand the  
functionality of your computer. For this model, 128 MB of memory is pre-  
installed (64 MB x 2). You can increase memory up to 192 MB (64 MB +  
128 MB) or 256 MB (128 MB x 2), by replacing one or both memory modules in  
the memory module bay. Expansion memory modules are available as options.  
For memory upgrades, use only PC-100 SDRAM SO-DIMM (gold lead  
contacts).  
!
Make sure you observe the proper safety precautions when you install memory mod-  
ules in your computer. See the bulleted list below. Be careful when adding memory.  
Mistakes when installing or removing a memory module may cause a malfunction.  
Before you start  
The procedures described below assume you are familiar with the general  
terminology associated with personal computers and with common safety  
practices required for using and modifying electronic equipment.  
Disconnect your system from its power source and from any  
telecommunications links, networks, or modems before you open the system  
or follow any of the procedures described below. Personal injury or  
equipment damage may result from failure to take these precautions.  
Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can damage memory modules and other  
components. Perform the procedures described below only at an ESD  
workstation. If such a station is not available, do not work in a carpeted area,  
and do not handle materials that produce or hold static electricity  
(cellophane wrappers, for example). Ground yourself by maintaining contact  
with an unpainted metal portion of the chassis while performing the  
procedure.  
Do not open the memory module package until you are ready to install the  
module. The package protects the module from ESD.  
Use the special bag for preventing ESD or use aluminum foil when you store  
the memory module.  
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Typical expansion memory configuration  
Total System Memory (MB)  
Slot 1 (MB)  
Slot 2 (MB)  
128  
192  
256  
64  
64  
64  
128  
128  
128  
To remove a memory module  
1
Shut down your computer and disconnect all peripheral devices, such as your  
printer.  
2
3
Unplug the computer and remove the battery pack(s).  
After the computer has cooled, loosen and remove the screw that secures the  
cover of the memory bay on the bottom of your computer. Use an  
appropriate screwdriver.  
Removing the memory module cover  
screw  
4
Touch a metal object (such as the connector panel on the back of your  
computer) to discharge any static electricity.  
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Adding Memory  
5
Remove the memory module.  
Removing memory module  
2 Pull the memory module in  
the direction of the arrow.  
1 Pull the tabs in the direction of the arrows.  
The memory module is released.  
6
Tighten the screw on the memory bay cover.  
Your computer comes with a memory module installed in the memory slot. To  
upgrade your memory, remove this module from the slot before installing your  
upgrade memory module.  
To install a memory module  
1
2
Follow steps 1 to 4 of “To remove a memory module.”  
Remove the memory module from its packaging.  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
3
Install the memory module.  
Installing memory module  
1 Slide the memory module into the slot.  
2 Press the module into place until it clicks.  
4
Tighten the screw on the cover of the memory bay.  
To view the amount of memory  
1
2
Restart the computer.  
Click the Start button on the Windows status bar, point to VAIO option, and  
click “Sony Notebook Setup.”  
The Sony Notebook Setup screen appears.  
3
Click the “About This Computer” tab to view the amount of system memory.  
If the additional memory is not shown, repeat steps 1 through 4 in “To install  
a memory module.”  
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About the Software on Your  
Notebook  
Your VAIO notebook 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 94.  
Adobe Acrobat Reader®  
Adobe Systems Inc.  
Acrobat Reader software allows you to view, navigate, and print electronic documents in  
Adobe 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 Inc.  
Create amazing photo effects with Adobe 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 on the  
monitor window. Create video clips up to three hours long with complete audio-video  
synchronization.  
America Online®  
America Online  
America Online is a 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.  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
ArcSoft® PhotoPrinter™ 2000 Pro  
ArcSoft, Inc.  
ArcSoft PhotoPrinter 2000 is an easy-to-use, advanced printing program that lets you  
quickly lay out multiple images in multiple sizes on a single sheet of paper. PhotoPrinter  
Pro offers a wide selection of templates including landscape, portrait, free style, mixed  
sizes, custom templates and more. The application includes enhancement tools and special  
effects for improving photos while giving you the ability to add text to any image.  
CompuServe® 2000  
CompuServe, Inc.  
CompuServe is the most comprehensive source of organized business and educational  
information online today. CompuServe allows you to access the vastness of the Internet,  
without wasting time wading through it. Maximize your time online with CompuServe.  
DVgate™  
Sony Electronics  
Connect a digital video camera recorder to the i.LINK® connector and capture your own  
video clips and still images. You can edit clips from your video, add others, and combine  
clips into new movie segments. You can also save your images in a variety of popular file  
formats.  
EarthLink Network 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 newsletter, and 24-hour technical  
support.  
McAfee® 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.  
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About the Software on Your Notebook  
Media Bar™  
Sony Electronics  
Media Bar software is your all-in-one solution for audio/video playback. Media Bar  
software handles all common computer multimedia formats and controls selected Sony  
devices. In addition to audio/video library cataloging and playlist management, Media Bar  
software includes digital video quality control and effects features. Media Bar software  
seamlessly integrates a variety of new media formats with an easy-to-use software  
interface.  
Microsoft® Internet Explorer  
Microsoft Corporation  
Internet Explorer delivers the web the way you want it. It is 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.  
Microsoft® Word 2000  
Microsoft Corporation  
Microsoft Word 2000 makes it easy to create shared 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 simple to create multilingual documents.  
MovieShaker™  
Sony Electronics  
Sony’s original MovieShaker software creates personal movies that have transitions,  
background music and text. Just import your video clips and “shake” with a click of the  
mouse. Your personal movies are easy to create and fun to share with family and friends.  
Netscape Communicator®  
Netscape Communications  
Netscape Communicator is an 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.  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
Prodigy Internet®  
Prodigy Communications Corporation  
An online 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 quality customer service, all at a competitive price.  
Quicken® Basic 2000  
Intuit, Inc.  
Quicken is a fast, easy way to organize your finances. Quicken works just like your  
checkbook, so it is easy to learn and use. Quicken manages all your finances, bank  
accounts, credit cards, investments, and loans. You can even pay your bills online.  
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 that supports the i.LINK interface. It allows you to capture compressed video  
or still images that you can save or share via e-mail. A smart solution to computer, digital  
audio/video and network convergence.  
Sound Forge® XP  
Sonic Foundry  
Sound Forge XP allows you to put powerful audio processing tools and effects to work on  
your notebook. Simply cut, copy, and paste your way to striking multimedia files for use in  
everything from Web pages to desktop presentations.  
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About Your Software  
About Your Software  
MovieShaker™  
This application can be used to create fun and innovative movies without any  
knowledge of film editing. In a few simple steps, motion pictures can be  
combined with special effects, still images (pictures), and music files and then  
saved in a format most computers can play.  
Main Window  
Working Panel  
Editing trays  
Clip tray  
Help  
Product tray  
Trash  
Importing Images and Sound Clips  
1
2
3
4
Click  
.
Find the file you want to add.  
Select the file.  
Click Open. The file is added to the Clip tray.  
Importing files over 75 seconds in length may cause MovieShaker to stop  
responding.  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
Create a Movie using Shaker  
After adding clip(s) to the Clip tray, you can create a short movie using the  
Shaker feature. Shaker randomly select clips from the Clip tray to create a 30-  
second scene.  
1
2
Click the Shake tab.  
Select a mood by clicking a face in the Shaker tray.  
Shaker Tray  
3
4
Click  
. A thirty second scene is automatically generated and  
saved to the Product tray.  
To preview, switch the Work Panel to Product tray mode and press play.  
Scenes created with Shaker begin with black frame and after processing are placed in  
the first available slot on the Product tray. Limit the number of scenes placed on the  
Product tray to 10 or less. MovieShaker may stop responding if too many scenes are  
placed on the Product tray.  
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About Your Software  
Editing Clips and Scenes  
You can edit your movie by adding effects and text, adjusting the color and  
contrast, and modifying the length of clips.  
Working Panel  
Sound  
Color  
Monitor  
Speed  
Effect Palette  
Trim Palette  
Effect Knobs  
Adding effects to a scene or a clip:  
1
2
3
Double-click the clip or scene to move it to the Working Panel.  
Select the Effects tab from the Editing tray.  
Drag and drop the Effect you want to add from the Effects tray to the Effects  
palette on the Working Panel.  
To preview an Effect, click on the clip in the Working panel monitor. Your clip displays  
with the new effect on the Effect tray monitor.  
4
See help for instructions on adjusting effect duration and replaying clips/  
scenes.  
Saving a Movie  
1
Verify that the clip(s) you want to save is on the Product tray. See Help for  
more details on saving movies.  
2
Click Export.  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
3
4
5
6
7
Select the format in which you want the document to be saved.  
Click Next.  
Locate the folder to which you want the file saved.  
Name the file.  
Click Save.  
!
Exporting movies may take a long time to complete—Save movie as DV (Digital  
Video) takes the longest and Quick-Save is the fastest. MovieShaker can play  
video files up to 65 MB in length.  
For DV playback and smooth video playback, we recommend the following resolution/  
refresh rates: 1024 x 768/75 Hz or lower.  
PictureGear™  
PictureGear is a digital image management application that allows you to see all  
the images stored in any directory on your computer. Thumbnail views provide  
quick reminders of your pictures. Brighten, contrast, enhance, resize, crop, and  
color-correct your pictures. Create panoramic views, animations, screen savers,  
wallpaper, still pictures from MPEG, and even html photo albums.  
Managing Your Pictures  
Use the collection feature to manage your pictures.  
1
2
3
4
Click the Folder tab and browse to locate your pictures.  
Select the pictures you want to have in a collection.  
From Collection menu, select Create New Collection.  
Enter a name for the collection and then click okay.  
Creating a Photo Album  
1
2
3
Select the pictures you want to use to make an album.  
From the Utilities menu, select Album Maker.  
Choose the type of Album you want and click Okay.  
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PictureGear™  
4
5
Now add more pictures, frames, text, and effects.  
When you are finished, select Create Album in File menu or click the Create  
Album icon on the toolbar.  
6
7
8
Designate the folder you where want to save the Album.  
Enter the Target Album name, select Thumbnails and click Okay.  
The new album can be viewed using most internet browsers.  
Using Panorama Maker  
Panorama Maker stitches a group of still images into a 360 degree panoramic  
picture. The source images should be the same size and overlap 20%.  
How to stitch a panoramic picture:  
1
2
Gather the source images into the same folder or collection.  
Select the images you want to use.  
We recommend 12 landscaped or 16 portrait pictures.  
3
From the Utilities menu select Panorama Maker.  
4
Select the correct lens and click Okay. (If 35mm lens is selected the prompt,  
does not appear; to select a different lens, click the lens icon.)  
5
6
Click the panoramic icon, near the bottom of the window.  
Click Full Stitch.  
Making Still Images and Panoramic from MPEG  
1
2
3
Select the MPEG file.  
From the Movie/Sound menu, select Scene break down.  
Then select Movie Stitch, to create a panoramic picture.  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
About Your Recovery CDs  
Application Recovery CD(s)  
Sony Electronics  
This 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  
This 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 this Sony computer.  
For Answers to Your Software Questions  
Acrobat® Reader, Adobe PhotoDeluxe® Business Edition, Adobe  
Premiere® LE (Adobe Systems Incorporated)  
Web site  
phone  
fax  
http://www.adobe.com/  
206-628-2746 (fee-based support)  
206-628-5737  
e-mail  
hours  
M-F, 6 AM-5 PM PT  
America Online® (America Online)  
Web site  
phone  
http://www.aol.com  
800-827-3338  
hours  
7 days a week, 24 hours a day  
CompuServe® 2000 (CompuServe, Inc.)  
Web site  
phone  
http://www.compuserve.com  
800-848-8990  
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For Answers to Your Software Questions  
EarthLink Network TotalAccess® (EarthLink Network, Inc.)  
.
Web site  
http://help.earthlink.net/techsupport/  
800-395-8410  
phone  
e-mail  
hours  
7 days a week, 24 hours a day  
McAfee® VirusScan® (Network Associates, Inc.)  
Web site  
phone  
e-mail  
hours  
http://support.mcafee.com  
408-988-3832  
M-F 9AM-5PM Central Time  
Netscape Communicator® (Netscape Communications Corporation)  
Web site  
phone  
http://www.netscape.com/  
*
888-4SONYPC (888-476-6972)  
7 days a week, 24 hours a day  
hours  
* Support from 1-888-4SONYPC is free of charge for 90 days after the original date of purchase.  
PhotoPrinter™ 2000 Pro (ArcSoft, Inc.)  
Web site(s)  
http://www.arcsoft.com  
http://www.photoisland.com  
phone  
fax  
510-440-9901  
510-440-1270  
e-mail  
hours  
M-F, 8:30 AM-5:30 PM PT  
Prodigy Internet® (Prodigy Communications Corporation)  
Web site  
phone  
http://www.prodigy.com  
800-213-0992  
hours  
7 AM - 3 AM ET  
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Quicken® 2000 (Intuit Inc.)  
Web site  
phone  
http://www.intuit.com/support  
900-555-4688  
hours  
7 days a week, 24 hours a day  
Windows Me Operating System, Internet Explorer (Microsoft Corporation)  
Web site  
phone  
http://www.microsoft.com/support/  
*
888-4SONYPC (888-476-6972)  
hours  
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  
Sony Service Center  
For the Sony Service Center nearest you, call 1-888-4SONYPC (1-888-476-  
6972) or find Sony Customer Service on the Web at http://www.sony.com/  
pcsupport.  
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Using the System and Application Recovery CDs  
Using the System and Application Recovery CDs  
The following sections describe how to use the System Recovery and Application  
Recovery utilities.  
Using the System Recovery CD(s)  
You can reinstall software titles that shipped with your computer if they are  
corrupted or 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 98.  
The System Recovery CD contains a backup copy of all the software originally  
installed on your hard disk drive. It can be used only to recover the hard disk  
of the notebook you purchased.  
The System Recovery utility gives you Full Restore with Format—  
formats the hard disk drive and then restores all the original software.  
!
Full Restore with Format 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 have any questions on using the System Recovery CD, contact Sony Customer  
Support.  
To use the System Recovery CD(s)  
1
2
Insert the Sony System Recovery CD in the DVD-ROM drive.  
Shut down your computer as described in “Shutting Down Your Computer”  
on page 32.  
3
4
Wait four 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.  
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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 from 30 to 60 minutes to complete.  
After recovering your system using the SRCD, you may be prompted to insert your  
ARCD after restarting Windows. Insert the ARCD to automatically complete recovery  
of your system.  
If your computer does not start from the Recovery CD  
1
Press the power button and hold it for more than four seconds to turn off the  
computer.  
2
Turn on the computer. When the Sony logo is displayed, press the F2 key.  
The BIOS setup menu screen appears.  
3
4
Press the arrow keys to select the Exit menu.  
Press the arrow keys to select “Get Default Values” and then press the Enter  
key. The message “Load default configuration now?” appears.  
5
6
Check that “Yes” is selected, then press the Enter key.  
Press the arrow keys to select “Exit” (Save Changes) and then press the Enter  
key. The message “Save configuration changes and exit now?” appears.  
7
Check that “Yes” is selected, then press the Enter key. The computer restarts  
from the Recovery CD.  
Using the Application Recovery CD(s)  
The Application Recovery CD(s) allows 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 97.  
You can also use the Application Recovery CD to install Windows Millennium  
drivers on your computer.  
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Using the System and Application 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.  
To use the Application Recovery CD(s)  
1
Turn on your computer. If your computer is already on, close all  
applications.  
2
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, select the icon for the  
application you want to restore and then 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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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).  
Troubleshooting your notebook  
When starting your notebook for the first time, the VAIO InitManager dialog box  
will appear. Please select “OK” to begin initial setup. If you do not execute the  
initial setup, you cannot use part of VAIO original hardware functions such as  
Jog Dial, Power Management tool, scroll function of touchpad, and keyboard  
shortcut key function combined with the Fn key.  
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.  
Check that the battery packs are inserted properly and that they are charged.  
Make sure there is no diskette in the floppy disk drive.  
Confirm that the power cord and all cables are connected firmly, as described  
in “Connecting a Power Source” on page 25.  
If you plugged the notebook into a power strip or UPS, make sure the power  
strip or UPS is turned on and working.  
If you are using an external display, check that it is plugged into a power  
source and turned on. Check that the brightness and contrast controls are  
adjusted correctly. See the manual that came with your display for details.  
Moisture condensation may have occurred. Do not use the notebook for at  
least one hour and then turn on the notebook.  
Take the battery pack off the notebook, unplug the power cord and plug it  
again, then turn on the power.  
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My notebook starts, but my system doesn’t start properly.  
When the internal backup battery is low on power, it may not start your  
system properly. The message “Press <F1> to resume, <F2> to setup”  
appears at the bottom of the screen. Follow these steps:  
1
2
3
Press F2. The BIOS Setup menu appears.  
Set the date (month/day/year). Press Enter.  
!
Press  
to select System Time, then set the time (hour: minute:  
second). Press Enter.  
"
!
4
Press  
to select Exit, then press  
to select Get Default Values. The  
message “Load default configuration now?” appears.  
5
6
Select Yes and press Enter.  
Select Exit (Save Changes), and then press Enter. The message “Save  
Configuration changes and exit now?” appears.  
7
Select Yes, and then press Enter. The notebook restarts.  
My notebook starts, but the message “Operating system not found” appears  
and Windows does not start.  
Make sure there is no diskette in the floppy disk drive (non-bootable).  
If a non-bootable diskette is in the drive, follow these steps:  
1
2
Turn off the notebook, and then remove the diskette.  
Restart the notebook and confirm that Windows starts properly.  
If Windows still does not start, follow the steps below to initialize the BIOS:  
1
2
3
4
Remove any diskette from the floppy disk drive.  
Remove any peripheral devices connected to the notebook.  
Turn off the notebook and then turn it on.  
Press the F2 key when the Sony logo appears. The BIOS setup menu  
screen appears.  
5
6
Press the directional arrow keys to select the Exit menu.  
Press the arrow keys to select “Get Default Values” and then press Enter.  
The message “Load default configuration now?” appears.  
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Troubleshooting  
7
8
Select Yes, then press Enter.  
Use the directional arrow keys to select “Exit” (Save Changes), and then  
press Enter. The message “Save configuration changes and exit now?”  
appears.  
9
Select Yes, then press Enter. The notebook restarts.  
If your notebook continues to display the message “Operating system not found”,  
and Windows does not start, contact Sony Customer Support.  
My notebook stops responding or does not shut down.  
It is best to shut down your notebook using the Shut Down command on the  
Windows Start menu. Using other methods, including those listed here, may  
result in loss of unsaved data.  
Try restarting the notebook. On the Windows taskbar, click the Start button,  
click Shut Down, and then click Restart.  
If you cannot restart as described in the preceding step, you can restart the  
notebook by pressing Ctrl+Alt+Delete.  
If the previous step does not work, press and hold the power button for at  
least four seconds. This turns off the power.  
If your notebook stops responding while playing a CD or DVD, stop the CD/  
DVD, and restart the notebook by pressing Ctrl+Alt+Delete.  
Unplug the notebook from the AC adapter and remove the battery pack from  
your notebook.  
Pressing Ctrl+Alt+Delete or turning off the notebook with the power switch may result  
in data loss in files that are currently open.  
My notebook does not enter the power saving mode I selected.  
Click Start, point to Program, point to Accessories, point to System Tools,  
and then click System Information.  
The Help and Support window appears.  
Click System Configuration Utility under the Tools menu.  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
Click the Advanced button on the General tab, and Confirm the following  
information:  
1
2
Enable Deep Sleep is selected with a checkmark.  
The message “Standby function is enabled” is displayed. If the message  
reads “Standby function is disabled”, click the Enable button.  
3
The message “Hibernation feature is enabled” is displayed. If the  
message reads “Hibernation feature is disabled”, click the Enable  
button.  
4
Click OK and restart your notebook.  
My system enters System Idle mode when System Suspend mode has been  
selected.  
If you are connecting an optical disc drive with a PC card, disconnect it by  
stopping the PC card. Use the Sony Notebook Setup utility to disable devices  
that you are not currently using. See “To remove a PC card” on page 50 for  
more information.  
Make sure the PC Card is compatible with your notebook’s Windows®  
operating system.  
The Power Management setting is not responding.  
Your notebook’s operating system may become unstable if a lower power state,  
such as system hibernation is initiated and then changed before the notebook  
completely enters the lower power state. To restore the notebook to its normal  
operating stability:  
Close all open applications.  
Push 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. This setting slows down the CPU speed. See PowerPanel Help for more  
information.  
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Troubleshooting  
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.  
Check that the battery pack(s) is inserted properly and that they are charged.  
The notebook may be in LCD (Video) Standby mode. Press any key to  
activate the screen.  
The display mode may be set to external display mode. Press and hold the Fn  
key while pressing F7 several times.  
My LCD screen continues to show the previous screen.  
Press the Windows key and D key twice to refresh the screen.  
The image on my connected external display is not centered or sized properly.  
Use the controls on your external display to adjust the image. See the manual that  
came with your display for more information.  
I want to change the video resolution of my display.  
You can use independent controls to change the video resolution of your display.  
Click Start, point to Settings, point to Control Panel, and then click the  
Display icon.  
The Display Properties dialog box appears.  
Click on the Settings tab.  
Move the Screen Area slider to change your video resolution.  
Troubleshooting the mouse and touchpad  
My mouse does not work.  
If you are using an external mouse, check that the mouse is plugged into the  
mouse connector. See “Connecting an External Mouse or Keyboard” on  
page 65 for details.  
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If you connected an external mouse while your notebook is on, you must  
restart your notebook.  
If you are using an optional Sony USB mouse PCGA-UMS1, check that the  
mouse is plugged into the USB connector.  
My touchpad does not work properly.  
You may have disabled the touchpad without a mouse being connected to the  
notebook. You must restart the notebook to make the touchpad work again.  
If your touchpad is interpreting a single tap as a double-click, you must  
adjust the button assignments. Follow these steps:  
1
2
Click Start, point to Control Panel, and then click on the Mouse icon.  
Change the button assignments in the Mouse Properties dialog box.  
(One of the buttons is assigned to the double-click action.)  
The pointer does not move (while using the Touchpad or Mouse).  
Click the Start button on the Windows taskbar, and select Shut Down to  
display the Shut Down Windows dialog box, then press Enter.  
If you cannot turn off your notebook as described in the step above, press  
Ctrl+Alt+Delete to restart the notebook.  
If you cannot restart your notebook as described in the step above, press and  
hold the power button for more than four seconds to turn off the notebook.  
If the pointer does not move while playing a disc, press Ctrl+Alt+Delete to  
stop playback and restart the notebook.  
Troubleshooting drives, PC cards and peripheral devices  
I inserted a compatible device into the multipurpose drive bay, but the icon  
does not appear in the My Computer window.  
The device has not been recognized. Put the notebook into System Idle mode  
by pressing the Fn and S keys and then resume.  
If the device is still not recognized or does not appear in the My Computer  
window, remove and reinsert it.  
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Troubleshooting  
My floppy disk drive can not write to a diskette.  
If the diskette is write-protected, disable the write-protect feature or use a  
diskette that is not write-protected.  
Check that the diskette is properly inserted into the floppy disk drive.  
My floppy disk drive icon doesn’t appear even though it is connected.  
Click Start, point to Settings, point to Control panel, and then click System  
The System Properties dialog box appears.  
Click the Device Manager tab.  
Double-click Floppy Disk Controller and then click Standard Floppy Disk  
Controller.  
Click Delete. The Confirmation window will appear.  
Verify that Delete From All Settings is selected and press OK.  
Click Update in the System Properties window.  
Double click Disk Drive and confirm that GENERIC NEC FLOPPY DISK  
is shown.  
My CD, DVD, or CD-RW drive is not playing my CD or DVD properly.  
Make sure the optical drive is inserted correctly into the multipurpose drive  
bay.  
Make sure the label of the disc is facing up.  
If the disc requires software, make sure the software is installed according to  
the manufacturer’s instructions.  
A dirty or damaged disc may cause the notebook to stop responding while it  
tries to read the disc. If necessary, restart the notebook, remove the disc, and  
then check it for dirt or damage.  
If you see video but can not hear audio, check all of the following:  
Check that your DVD-ROM drive does not have the mute setting  
enabled.  
Check the volume setting in the audio mixer.  
If you are using external speakers, check the volume settings, and then  
check the connections between your external speakers and the notebook.  
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Click Start >Control Panel > System > Device Manager. Check that the  
correct drivers are installed properly.  
Do not use adhesive labels to identify the CD. The label may come off while  
the disc is in use in the optical drive and cause the drive to malfunction.  
If a region code warning appears when you try to use your DVD-ROM drive,  
it may be that the DVD you are trying to play is incompatible with the DVD-  
ROM drive. Check the region code listing on the DVD packaging.  
Moisture condensation may have occurred. Leave the notebook idle for at  
least 1 hour with the notebook turned on.  
My CD, DVD, or CD-RW drive tray does not open.  
Make sure the notebook is turned on.  
Press the Eject button on the DVD-ROM drive.  
If the Eject button does not work, you can open the tray by inserting a sharp,  
pointed object into the hole to the right of the Eject button.  
I cannot use digital video (DV) devices. The message “DV equipment seems to  
be disconnected or turned off” appears.  
Check that the DV device is turned on and that the cables are properly  
connected.  
If you are using multiple i.LINK devices, the combination of the connected  
devices may cause unstable operation. In this case, turn off your notebook  
and all connected devices. Disconnect the devices that are not in use. Check  
the connections for each device, then restart your notebook.  
The i.LINK-compatible devices connected to the Mini Docking Station do  
not work.  
Use the i.LINK connector that is located on your notebook.  
If the message “There are no Digital Video devices connected to this  
computer, or the power is off” appears, unplug the i.LINK cable and try  
plugging it in again.  
My PC card is not working.  
Make sure the PC card is compatible with Microsoft® Windows®.  
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Troubleshooting  
Use the Sony Notebook Setup utility to disable devices you are not currently  
using.  
If you are using two PC cards, use the Sony Notebook Setup utility to disable  
the devices you are not currently using.  
Troubleshooting software  
My software program stops responding or crashes.  
Contact the software publisher or designated provider for technical support. See  
the “For Answers to Your Software Questions” on page 94.  
When I click an application icon, the message “You must insert the application  
CD into your CD-ROM (DVD-ROM/CD-RW) drive” appears and the software does  
not start.  
Some titles require specific files that are located on the application CD.  
Insert the disc and try starting the program again.  
Make sure you place the CD in the tray with the label side facing up.  
I hear background “noise” while using Windows Media Player to play my music  
CDs.  
Sony suggests using the preinstalled Media Bar software to play audio CDs.  
I can not use the DVgate software.  
If your notebook is using the Ultimate Battery Life profile for its power saving  
mode, you cannot use DVgate or Smart Connect software. Please select another  
profile.  
My voice-related software does not work properly.  
Disable echo function of the microphone by taking the following steps:  
1
2
3
Click Start, point to Settings, and then point to Control Panel.  
Click Yamaha DS-XG.  
Click the Echo tab and remove the checkmark. Click OK.  
Contact the software publisher or designated provider for technical support  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
Troubleshooting the modem  
My modem does not work.  
Check that the phone line is plugged into the line jack. See “Connecting a  
Phone Line” on page 62 for details.  
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.  
Check that the software you are using is compatible with the notebook’s  
modem. (All preinstalled Sony programs are compatible.)  
My modem connection is slow.  
Your notebook is equipped with a 56K/V.90 compatible modem. Many factors  
may influence modem connection speed, including telephone line noise or  
compatibility with telephone equipment (such as fax machines or other modems).  
If you think your modem is not connecting properly to other PC-based modems,  
fax machines, or your Internet Service Provider, 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 and that it is compatible with fax modems.  
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 that  
line.  
Troubleshooting audio  
My speakers have no sound.  
If the built-in speakers are turned off, press Fn+F3 to turn on the speakers.  
You can also turn on the speakers using the Jog Dial control.  
If the speaker volume is turned to the minimum, press Fn+F4, and then press  
or  
to increase the volume or you can use the Jog Dial control to control  
the volume.  
If nothing is displayed when you press Fn+F3 or Fn+F4.  
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Troubleshooting  
1
2
Double click System in Control Panel.  
Set the sound device to enable in Device Manager.  
If your notebook is powered by batteries, check that the battery packs are  
inserted properly and that they are charged.  
If you are using an application that has its own volume control, check that  
the volume is turned up.  
Check the volume controls in Windows.®  
If you connect external speakers, check that the speakers are properly  
connected and the volume is turned up. If the speakers have a mute button,  
make sure it is off. If the speakers are powered by batteries, check that the  
batteries are inserted properly and that they are charged.  
If you have connected an audio cable to the Headphone connector,  
disconnect the cable.  
My microphone does not work.  
If you are using an external microphone, check that the microphone is plugged  
into the Microphone connector. See “Connecting an External Microphone” on  
page 75 for details.  
Troubleshooting the printer  
I cannot print.  
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. See “Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen” in the  
“Customizing Your VAIO® Notebook” manual for details on using Sony  
Notebook Setup.  
Your connected printer may not function after the computer resumes from a  
power saving mode. If this occurs, follow these steps to reset the printer  
connection:  
Right-click the My Computer icon on the desktop, and then select  
Properties.  
Click the Device Manager tab.  
Select Refresh, and then click OK. The printer should function properly.  
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Specifications  
Specifications  
Model  
PCG-F640  
Processor  
650 MHz* Intel® Pentium® III with Intel®  
SpeedStep™ Technology  
Hard Disk Drive  
12 GB  
C / D Partition (Approximate)  
40% and 60%  
Standard RAM  
LCD Screen  
L2 Cache Memory  
MPEG  
128 MB SDRAM, expandable to 256 MB  
13.3" XGA TFT  
256KB (CPU Intergrated)  
MPEG1 and MPEG2 Digital Video;  
supports full-screen playback  
Graphics  
3-D graphic accelerator with 8 MB Video  
RAM  
ATI 3D RAGE™ Mobility-M1  
Sound Capabilities  
Diskette Drive  
16-bit CD-quality stereo sound  
Removable 3.5" 1.44 MB  
DVD-ROM Drive  
Reads CD data from 10.3X to 24X variable  
transfer rate.** Reads DVD data from 1.7X  
to 8X variable transfer rate.  
††  
Laser Diode Properties  
DVD-ROM: Wavelength 770 nm and 660  
nm  
laser output 30.2 µW  
‡‡  
Modem  
Infrared  
V.90/K56flex compatible modem  
Supports 4 Mbps, 1.1 Mbps, and 115 Kbps  
IrDA Standard  
Drive Bay  
Supports floppy disk drive (included)  
Supports second rechargeable battery  
(optional)  
Expansion Capabilities  
Built-in Capabilities  
Type II PC cards and Type III PC card Card  
Bus support  
Stereo speakers, Touch pad  
‡‡  
Telecommunication  
Capabilities  
Data and fax send/receive  
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Model  
PCG-F640  
Connection Capabilities  
2 USB ports  
i.LINK  
†††  
Serial port  
Keyboard/mouse (USB and PS/2® style)  
VGA monitor  
Parallel (printer)  
Phone line (RJ-11)  
TV out  
Microphone  
Headphone  
Port replicator  
Infrared port  
Supplied Accessories  
Video cable  
Floppy disk drive  
Rechargeable battery  
AC adapter and power cord  
Weight saver  
Power Requirements  
Power Management  
58.5 watts maximum (19.5V DC/AC  
100-240V)  
Energy Star compliant  
Advanced Configuration and Power  
Interface (ACPI)  
Battery  
Lithium-ion, supports dual battery operation  
Dimensions  
12.8"(w) x 1.9"(h)*** x 10.3"(d),  
(324 x 46.9 x 265.5mm)  
Weight  
6.7 lbs. (3.1 kg) (with battery and  
weight saver)  
7.1 lbs. (3.2 kg) (with battery and floppy  
disk drive)  
Operating Temperature  
Operating Humidity  
41º F to 95º F (+5º C to 35º C) temperature  
gradient less than 18º F (10º C) per hour  
20% to 80% (not condensed), provided that  
humidity is less than 65% at 95º F (35º C),  
hygrometer reading of less than 84º F  
(29º C)  
Storage Temperature  
-4º F to 140º F (-20º C to 60º C), temperature  
gradient less than 18º F (10º C) per hour  
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Specifications  
Model  
PCG-F640  
Storage Humidity  
10% to 90% (not condensed) provided that  
humidity is less than 20% at 140º F (60º C),  
hygrometer reading of less than  
95º F (35º C)  
* MHz denotes microprocessor internal clock speed; other factors may affect application performance.  
† The processor may be reduced to a lower operating speed when operating on battery power.  
‡ The size of your hard disk may differ if you purchased a specially configured system. GB means one  
billion bytes when referring to hard drive capacity. Accessible capacity may vary.  
** Data on a CD-ROM is read at a variable transfer rate, ranging from 10.3X at the innermost track to  
24X at the outermost track (the data transfer standard 1X rate is 150 kbytes/s). The average data  
transfer rate is 17.2X or 2580 kbytes/s.  
†† Data on a DVD is read at a variable transfer rate, ranging from 1.7X at the innermost track to 4X at  
the outermost track (the data transfer standard 1X rate is 1392 kbytes/s). The average data transfer  
standard is approximately 2.85X or 3823 kbytes/s. A DVD-ROM drive reads data on a CD at a  
variable transfer rate, ranging from 10.3X at the innermost track to 24X at the outermost track. The  
average data transfer rate is approximately 17.15X or 2936 kbytes/s or 2576 kbytes/s.  
If a region code warning appears when you are using the DVD player, it could be that the DVD you  
are trying to play is incompatible with the DVD-ROM drive in your VAIO notebook. Region code  
indicators such as a “1” or “ALL” are labeled on some DVDs to indicate what type of player can  
play the discs. Unless a “1” or “ALL” is identified on your DVDs or on the packaging, you cannot  
play the disc on this player.  
‡‡ Maximum speed for faxing is 14.4 kbps. Your 56K/V.90 compatible modem is capable of  
downloading at 53 kbps. Your online service or Internet Service Provider, however, may not  
support this technology or operate at this speed.  
*** Height measured at thickest point. The thinnest height is 1.4" (35.8 mm).  
††† i.LINK is a trademark of Sony used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE 1394  
connector. All products with an i.LINK connector may not communicate with each other.  
Specifications are subject to change without notice.  
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Index  
A
buttons  
About Your Recovery CDs 94  
AC adapter 21, 25  
AC power 25  
adding  
hardware 59  
memory 81  
peripherals 59  
printers 63  
phone 21  
power cord 25  
digital video recorder 60  
adjusting  
Alt key 34  
Application Recovery CD 99  
Applications key 34  
attaching port replicator 70  
B
battery packs 21, 26  
charging 27, 54  
indicator lights 28, 35, 52  
inserting 26  
CD-ROMs  
charge status indicator light 28  
inserting into battery bay 26 charging battery packs 27, 54  
loading 26  
rechargeable 25  
removing 29, 52, 54  
choosing  
power source 26  
coin-operated telephones 62  
computer  
brightness  
adjusting 32, 36  
handling 19  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
lithium ion battery 7  
setting up 21  
starting 31  
troubleshooting 101, 109  
unpacking 14  
digital still camera 51  
disconnecting port replicator 73  
connecting  
coin-operated telephones 62  
digital video recorder 60  
external speakers 74  
hard drives 48  
microphone 75  
monitor 66  
multimedia computer  
display 67  
network 48, 70  
party phone lines 62  
PBX 62  
DV In/Out 60  
phone line 62  
port replicator 70  
power source 25  
printer 63  
projector 67  
DVD-ROM drive tray  
USB device 76  
weight saver 56  
connectors  
handling 47  
DC In 25  
infrared 51  
network 70  
E
Eject button 43, 45  
ejecting  
Printer 63  
printer 63  
Serial port 70  
battery packs 54  
CD-ROM/DVD-ROM discs  
correction keys 34  
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45  
Mouseware 39  
weight saver 57  
Energy Star 2  
ergonomic considerations 17  
Escape key 34  
expansion memory  
configuration 82  
external devices  
display 68  
IEEE-1394 60  
indicator lights 35  
battery 28, 35, 52  
speakers 36, 74  
F
faxes  
laws governing 6  
floppy disk drive 21  
cable 21  
troubleshooting 107  
Fn key 34  
infrared port 51  
infrared transmission  
troubleshooting 52  
function keys 34  
inserting  
H
handling 19  
CD-ROMs and DVD-  
ROMs 47  
handling the LCD screen 19  
hard drives  
installation 18  
installing  
hard drives 48  
hardware 59  
indicator light 35  
installing additional 48  
headphone connector 67  
Help  
memory module 83  
peripherals 59  
interference 5  
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VAIO Notebook User Guide  
K
keyboard 34  
connector 67  
L
LCD  
lock lever 31  
68  
Mouse Properties screen 39  
features 39  
multimedia computer display  
67  
troubleshooting 105  
LCD screen  
handling 19  
lever  
LCD 31  
weight saver release 55  
lithium ion battery  
disposal 7  
safety precautions 7  
loading  
battery pack 26  
connecting 48  
Num Lock  
M
maintenance 19  
memory module  
expansion 82  
installing 83  
removing 82  
microphone  
O
connecting 75  
connector 67  
troubleshooting 111  
modem  
opening  
DVD-ROM drive tray 43  
operator keys 34  
output devices 5  
adding 63  
laws governing 6  
troubleshooting 110  
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Index  
P
Printer connector 63  
PBX 62  
PC card  
inserting 48  
slot protector 48  
slots 48  
rechargeable battery packs 25,  
recharging battery packs 27  
troubleshooting 108  
phone  
cable 21  
jack 62  
laws governing 6  
port replicator  
connecting 70  
disconnecting 73  
lever 73  
network 70  
power 35  
cord 25  
switch 31  
selecting  
power saving modes 77  
System Hibernation 37, 78  
System Idle 77  
Video Standby 37  
power source 25  
power sources 26  
connecting 25  
Print Screen key 34  
printer  
LCD 68  
monitor 68  
power source 26  
Serial connector 70  
Shift key 34  
Software list 85  
Sony Service Center 96  
connecting 63  
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speakers  
external 74  
switching 36  
troubleshooting 110  
volume 36  
video camera 60  
Specifications 113  
starting  
computer 31  
startup problems 32  
switching  
weight saver  
attaching 53  
Windows Me  
Find window 34  
display 37  
monitor 37  
78  
System Idle mode 37, 77  
T
touchpad 38  
troubleshooting 101  
startup 32, 101  
turning on  
computer 31  
TV  
key 34  
key combinations 34  
taskbar 32  
interference 5  
U
unpacking the computer 14  
USB  
connecting 76  
connector 76  
mouse 76  
122  
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