Sony Laptop PCG F390 User Manual

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services may require prior arrangements

with participating financial institutions.

Notice to Users

reserved. This manual and the software

described herein, in whole or in part, may

not be reproduced, translated, or reduced

to any machine-readable form without

prior written approval.

As an ENERGY STAR

Partner, Sony Corporation

has determined that this

product meets the ENERGY

STAR guidelines for energy

efficiency.

SONY ELECTRONICS INC. PROVIDES

NO WARRANTY WITH REGARD TO

THIS MANUAL, THE SOFTWARE, OR

OTHER INFORMATION CONTAINED

HEREIN AND HEREBY EXPRESSLY

DISCLAIMS ANY IMPLIED

WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY

OR FITNESS FOR ANY PARTICULAR

PURPOSE WITH REGARD TO THIS

MANUAL, THE SOFTWARE, OR SUCH

OTHER INFORMATION. IN NO EVENT

SHALL SONY ELECTRONICS INC. BE

LIABLE FOR ANY INCIDENTAL,

CONSEQUENTIAL, OR SPECIAL

DAMAGES, WHETHER BASED ON

TORT, CONTRACT, OR OTHERWISE,

ARISING OUT OF OR IN CONNECTION

WITH THIS MANUAL, THE SOFTWARE,

OR OTHER INFORMATION

The International ENERGY STAR Office

Equipment Program is an international

program that promotes energy saving

through the use of computers and other

office equipment. The program backs the

development and dissemination of

products with functions that effectively

reduce energy consumption. It is an open

system in which business proprietors can

participate voluntarily. The targeted

products are office equipment such as

computers, displays, printers, facsimiles

and copiers. Their standards and logos are

uniform among participating nations.

ENERGY STAR is a U.S. registered mark.

Sony, i.LINK, Memory Stick, VAIO and the

VAIO logo are trademarks of Sony

Corporation. Windows, Windows NT, and

the Windows 98 logo are registered

trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. Intel

and Pentium are trademarks of Intel

Corporation.

CONTAINED HEREIN OR THE USE

THEREOF.

Sony Electronics Inc. reserves the right to

make any modification to this manual or

the information contained herein at any

time without notice. The software

described herein is governed by the terms

of a separate user license agreement.

This product incorporates copyright

protection technology that is protected by

method claims of certain U.S. patents and

other intellectual property rights owned by

Macrovision Corporation and other rights

owners. Use of this copyright protection

technology must be authorized by

Macrovision Corporation, and is intended

for home and other limited viewing uses

only unless otherwise authorized by

Macrovision Corporation. Reverse

This product contains software owned by

Sony and licensed by third parties. Use of

such software is subject to the terms and

conditions of license agreements enclosed

with this product. Some of the software

may not be transported or used outside the

United States. Software specifications are

subject to change without notice and may

not necessarily be identical to current retail

versions.

engineering or disassembly is prohibited.

All other trademarks are trademarks of

their respective owners.

Updates and additions to software may

require an additional charge. Subscriptions

to online service providers may require a

fee and credit card information. Financial

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Owner’s Record

! ^{For DVD-ROM: As the laser beam}

used in the DVD-ROM drive is

harmful to the eyes, do not

attempt to disassemble the drive

cabinet. Refer servicing to

The model number and serial number are

located on the bottom of your Sony VAIO^®

Notebook. Record the serial number in the

space provided here. Refer to the model

and serial number when you call your

Sony Service Center.

qualified personnel only.

Model Number: PCG-F370/ PCG-F390

AVERTISSEMENT

Serial Number:________________________

❏

Pour prévenir tout risque d’incendie

ou d’électrocution, garder cet appareil

à l’abri de la pluie et de l’humidité.

Pour prévenir tout risque

d’électrocution, ne pas ouvir le châssis

de cet appareil et ne confier son

entretien qu’à une personne qualifiée.

L’appareil doit être le plus près

possible d’une prise murale pour en

faciliter l’accès.

Safety Information

WARNING

❏

To prevent fire or shock hazard, do

not expose your notebook computer

to rain or moisture.

To avoid electrical shock, do not open

the cabinet. Refer servicing to

qualified personnel only.

❏

Regulatory Information.

❏

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.

Never touch uninsulated telephone

wire or terminals unless the telephone

line has been disconnected at the

network interface.

Declaration of Conformity

Trade Name: SONY

❏

Model No: PCG-F370/ PCG-F390

Responsible Party:

Sony Electronics Inc.

❏

Use caution when installing or

modifying telephone lines.

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.

A socket outlet should be as close as

possible to the unit and easily

accessible.

Address:

1 Sony Drive

Park Ridge, NJ 07656

Telephone No.: 201-930-6970

This device complies with Part 15 of

the FCC rules. Operation is subject

to the following two conditions: (1)

This device may not cause harmful

interference, and (2) this device

must accept any interference

received, including interference

that may cause undesired

❏

! ^{To change the backup battery,}

please contact your nearest Sony

Service Center.

operation.

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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 generates, uses, and can

radiate radio frequency energy and, if not

installed and used in 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

FCC Part 68

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.

This modem uses the USOC RJ-11

telephone jack.

The REN is used to determine the quantity

of devices which may be connected to the

telephone line. Excessive RENs on the

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.

interference by one or more of the

following measures:

❏

Reorient or relocate the receiving

antenna.

Increase the separation between the

equipment and the receiver.

Connect the equipment into an outlet

on a circuit different from that to

which the receiver is connected.

Consult the dealer or an experienced

radio/ TV technician for help.

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.

❏

You are cautioned that any changes or

modifications not expressly approved in

this manual could void your authority to

operate this equipment.

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.

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.

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.

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If trouble is experienced with this

Telephone Consumer

Guidelines (Canada)

equipment, please contact 1-888-4SONYPC

(1-888-476-6972), or write to the Sony

Customer Information Center, One Sony

Drive, Park Ridge, NJ 07656, for repair

and/ or warranty information. If the trouble

is causing harm to the telephone network,

the telephone company may request that

you remove the equipment from the

network until the problem is resolved.

Please refer to your telephone directory

under ‘Privacy Issues’ and/ or ‘Terms of

Service.’ For more detailed information,

please contact:

CRTC

Terrasses de la Chaudiére, Tour centrale

1 promenade du Portage, 5 étage Hull PQ

K1A 0N2.

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).

This Class B digital apparatus complies

with Canadian ICES-003.

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 commission, public service

commission, or corporation commission,

for information.)

DISPOSAL OF LITHIUM ION

BATTERY

You can return your unwanted lithium ion

batteries to your nearest Sony Service

Center or Factory Service Center.

Telephone Consumer

Protection Act of 1991

(United States)

✍ ^{In some areas the disposal of lithium ion}

batteries in household or business trash

may be prohibited.

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

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.

business, other entity, or individual

sending the message, and the telephone

number of the sending machine or such

business, other entity, or individual.

In order to program this information into

your facsimile machine, see your fax

software documentation.

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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

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.

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.

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 equipment may give the

telecommunications company cause to

request that the user disconnect the

equipment.

! ^{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.

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.

Dispose of used battery promptly.

Keep away from children.

! ^{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.

Caution: Users should not attempt to make

such connections themselves, but should

contact the appropriate electric inspection

authority, or electrician, as appropriate.

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 0.4.

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

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AVIS: L’indice 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 DE L’INDUSTRIE

CANADA

AVIS: L’étiquette 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.

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.

L’abonné ne doit pas oublier qu’il est

possible que la conformité aux conditions

énoncées ci-dessus n’empêche pas la

dégradation du service dans certaines

situations.

Les réparations de matériel homologué

doivent être coordonnées par un

représentant désigné par le fournisseur.

L’entreprise 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.

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.

Avertissement: L’utilisateur 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.

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Contents

Welcome............................................................................................ 1

Features ............................................................................................. 1

Unpacking Your Notebook Computer ......................................... 2

Locating Controls and Connectors................................................ 4

Connecting a Power Source ........................................................... 8

Starting Your Computer ............................................................... 12

Shutting Down Your Computer .................................................. 13

Configuring Microsoft® Windows® 98 Second Edition.......... 14

Registering Your Computer ......................................................... 15

Using the Keyboard ....................................................................... 16

Using the Touchpad ...................................................................... 22

Using the Floppy Disk Drive ....................................................... 23

Using the DVD-ROM .................................................................... 25

Using PC Cards .............................................................................. 29

Using Smart Connect..................................................................... 32

Using Infrared Communication Devices.................................... 33

Using Power Saving Modes ......................................................... 35

Using a Second Battery Pack........................................................ 37

Using the Weight Saver ................................................................ 40

Connecting Peripheral Devices.................................................... 42

Connecting a Phone Line.............................................................. 43

Connecting the Port Replicator.................................................... 44

Connecting a Printer...................................................................... 48

Connecting an External Display .................................................. 49

Connecting an External Mouse or Keyboard............................. 52

Connecting External Speakers ..................................................... 53

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VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide

Connecting an External Microphone...........................................54

Connecting a Digital Still Camera or Other Serial Device .......55

Connecting a Digital Video Camera Recorder...........................56

Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) Device ......................57

Troubleshooting .............................................................................58

Changing the Window Design of Sony Software......................66

Using the System and Application Recovery CDs ....................67

About the Software on Your Computer......................................70

For Answers to Your Software Questions ..................................76

Adding Memory .............................................................................78

Specifications ..................................................................................81

Index.................................................................................................83

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Welcome

Congratulations on your purchase of the Sony VAIO notebook

computer. 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 computer, see

page 81.

❑

Exceptional performance: Your notebook includes a fast Intel

Pentium III processor and a V.90 compatible modem.*

Portability: The 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.

Windows 98 Second Edition: Your system includes the latest

operating system from Microsoft.

Communications: Access popular online services, send e-mail,

browse the Internet, and use fax features.

Digital Versatile Disc (DVD): This new optical storage technology

that 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 government

regulations.

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VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide

Unpacking Your Notebook Computer

Remove the following hardware items from the box:

†

Main unit

Rechargeable

battery pack

Power cord

AC adapter

Weight saver

Video cable

†

The removable floppy disk drive is located in the multipurpose bay.

Manuals

❑

Read Me First contains Frequently Asked Questions, the most up-to-

date information on using your computer, and software support

information.

❑

The VA I O Notebook Computer User Guide (this manual) contains

information on how to get the most from your computer, find help,

and solve common problems. It also includes product specifications.

❑

The VAIO Consumer Information Guide contains ergonomic

considerations and your computer’s limited warranty statement.

The Microsoft Windows 98 Getting Started manual explains how to

use the basic features of the Windows 98 operating system.

Recovery CDs

❑

System Recovery CD(s)

Application Recovery CD(s)

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Unpacking Your Notebook Computer

Software CDs

❑

Microsoft Works Suite 99 (5 CD set)

Other

❑

Setting up your VAIO Notebook Computer (poster)

Packet containing special product offers

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VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide

Locating Controls and Connectors

Front

LCD(LiquidCrystalDisplay)screen(page 20)

Speakers (pages 20, 53)

Battery 1 and 2 indicators (pages 10, 19)

Hard disk drive indicator (page 19)

Num Lock indicator (page 19)

Keyboard (page 16)

Touchpad (page 22)

Caps Lock indicator (page 19)

Left/right buttons (page 22)

Power indicator (page 10)

Scroll Lock indicator (page 19)

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Locating Controls and Connectors

Left

S400 i.LINK connector (page 56)

Microphone connector (pages 50, 54)

PC card slots (page 29)

Infrared port (page 33)

Video out

Battery bay (page 9)

Headphone connector (pages 50, 53)

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VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide

Right

PPK buttons (see the online

document Customizing Your VAIO

Notebook Computer for information

on use)

Multipurpose bay (pages 23, 37, 40)

Internal microphone

Power button

DVD-ROM drive (page 25)

Back

cover

Phone line jack (page 43)

Monitor connector (page 49)

USB connectors (page 57)

DC In connector (page 8)

Mouse/Keyboard connector (page 52)

Serial connector (page 55)

Printer connector (page 48)

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Locating Controls and Connectors

✍ ^{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

Port replicator connector cover (pages 45, 47)

Multipurpose bay RELEASE lever (pages 39, 41)

Tilt stands

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VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide

Connecting a Power Source

You can use either AC power or a rechargeable battery pack as a power

source.

Using the AC Adapter

Plug the cable attached to the AC adapter into the DC In connector on

the computer.

Plug one end of the power cord into the AC adapter.

Plug the other end of the power cord into an AC outlet.

Notebook computer

AC adapter

(supplied)

Power cord (supplied)

DC In

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Connecting a Power Source

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 “Using Power Saving Modes” on page 35.) 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

Open the cover of the battery bay.

Insert the battery pack into the battery bay on the left side of the

computer.

Battery pack

(supplied)

Label side facing down

Close the cover of the battery bay until it clicks.

✍ ^{When attaching your computer to the port replicator, 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.

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10 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide

To charge the battery pack

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). When the

battery is 85 percent 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

Detailed Battery Information” in the online document Customizing Your

VA I O Notebook Computer for information on checking the battery life.

There are two battery indicator lights on the computer:

Battery indicators

Secondary battery pack

(not supplied)

Battery pack (supplied)

Battery Indicator

Meaning

Indicates the status of the battery pack in the battery bay

on the left side of the computer.

Indicates the status of the battery pack in the

multipurpose bay on the right side of the computer.

Battery Indicator

Light Status

Meaning

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

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 “Using a Second Battery Pack” on page 37 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.

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 “Using Power Saving Modes” on page 35.

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.

To remove the battery pack

Open the cover of the battery bay.

Pull out the battery pack.

Close the cover of the battery bay.

! You may 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 System Suspend mode.

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12 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide

Starting Your Computer

Slide the LCD lock lever in the direction of the arrow, and lift the

cover.

LCD lock lever

Power

button

Press the power button on top of the computer until the green power

indicator light turns on.

Power indicator

Power button

✍ ^{If you hold the power button in the On position for more than four seconds, the}

computer turns off.

If necessary, adjust the brightness controls for the LCD display. To

decrease the brightness, press Fn+F5 and then the down or left arrow

key. To increase the brightness, press Fn+F5 and then the up or right

arrow key.

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Shutting Down Your Computer

! To avoid potential loss of data, follow these steps to shut down your computer.

Click the Start button on the Windows 98 taskbar.

Click Shut Down at the bottom of the Start menu to display the Shut

Down Windows dialog box.

Select Shut down.

Click OK.

✍ ^{Respond to any prompts warning you to save documents.}

Wait for your computer to turn off automatically. The power indicator

(green) turns off.

Turn off any peripherals connected to your computer.

✍ ^{If you are unable to shut down your computer using the steps described above, press the}

Ctrl+Alt+Delete keys at the same time to restart the computer. If you are unable to restart

the computer in this way, you can press the power button and hold it for four seconds. This

operation may result in data loss.

During a period of inactivity, you can conserve battery life by using System Suspend mode.

See “Controlling Power Management” in the online document Customizing Your VAIO

Notebook Computer.

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14 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide

Configuring Microsoft Windows 98

Second Edition

The first time you turn on your computer, you need to complete a few

steps to configure the Microsoft Windows 98 Second Edition operating

system that is already installed.

✍ ^{You must configure Windows 98 before you can use the computer.}

The on-screen instructions guide you through the configuration process.

The following is an overview of the process.

Entering information:

❑

Enter your name.

Read and accept the License Agreement.

Enter the product ID number located on the Certificate of

Authenticity on the cover of the Microsoft Windows 98

Getting Started manual.

Windows 98 setup:

Click the Finish button on the Windows 98 Setup Wizard screen.

Selecting your computer settings:

If necessary, change the Time Zone, Date and Time on the Date/ Time

Properties screen.

Registering your computer:

For details on registering your computer, see “Registering Your

Computer” on page 15. You may sign up for Internet access with a

Sony preferred Internet Service Provider.

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Registering Your Computer

You can take advantage of Sony’s commitment to quality customer

support and receive the following benefits by registering your computer

with Sony.

❑

Sony Customer Support – Talk to a Support Representative to

troubleshoot problems you may be having with your computer.

❑

Extended Limited Warranty – Protect your investment. Extend your

Warranty nine months for a total of 12 months from the original date

of purchase when you register your computer.

❑

Express service – Provides convenient resolution of problems.

If you have not already registered, follow these steps to use your

notebook computer’s online registration service.

✍ ^{You must connect your phone line before using any online services, including the online}

registration service. See “Connecting a Phone Line” on page 43.

Click the Sony VAIO Registration icon on the VAIO desktop.

Enter the information requested on the first online registration form.

Press the Tab key to move from box to box.

Click the Next button to advance to the next form.

Complete the remaining forms by clicking the Next button each time

you complete a form.

The computer automatically transfers your registration information using

your built-in modem and a toll-free telephone number.

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16 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide

Using the Keyboard

Your keyboard is very similar to a typewriter’s, but the keyboard has

additional keys that perform specific computer-related tasks.

Correction

keys

Function keys

Escape Key

Print Screen key

Shift key

Ctrl key

Fn key

Applications key

Navigation

keys

Alt key

Numeric keypad area

Windows 98 key

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

Function 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.

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.

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Using the Keyboard

Key

Description

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 p roduce capital letters or special

symbols such as @ and $.

Windows 98 key

The key with the Windows logo displays the Windows 98

Start menu; it is the equivalent of clicking the Start button

on the taskbar. See “Combinations and Functions with

the Windows 98 Key” on page 18.

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 20.

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.

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18 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide

Combinations and Functions with the Windows 98 Key

Combination

Function

+ F1

+ Tab

+ E

Displays Windows Help.

Switches the selected button on the taskbar.

Displays Windows Explorer.

+ 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.

+ 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 +

+ M

Returns all minimized windows to their previous

size.

+ R

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.

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Using the Keyboard

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.

Battery 2

Indicates the status of the battery inserted in the

multipurpose bay on the right side of the computer.

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.

Light

Off

Num Lock

The number keys in the

numeric keypad are active.

The alphanumeric 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

Information moves across the

display normally.

depends on the specific

application. It has no effect in

many applications.)

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20 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide

Combinations and Functions with the Fn Key

Combinations/

Feature

Function

Puts the system into System Suspend mode, a power-

management state. To return the system to the active

state, press any key or press the power button on your

computer.

Fn+

(ESC)

System Suspend

Displays the power source status, as in the example

below:

Fn+

(F2)

Display power source

status

Charging a

Using AC

power

battery pack

Toggles the built-in speaker off and on.

Fn+

(F3)

Mute On/ Off

Adjusts the built-in speaker volume.

To increase volume, press Fn+F4, then

To decrease volume, press Fn+F4, then

Fn+ (F4)

Speaker volume

or ➜.

➜

Adjusts the brightness of the LCD.

To increase light intensity, press Fn+F5 and then

To decrease light intensity, press Fn+F5 and then or

Fn+

(F5)

or ➜.

Brightness control

➜

Fn +F6: not available on this model

Fn+

(F6)

Contrast control

Toggles through the LCD, external display (connected to

the Monitor connector) and both LCD and external

display.

LCD

Fn+

(F7)

Switch to the

external monitor/ LCD

LCD and external display

Only external display

Only LCD

LCD

Fn+

only/

Toggles between LCD-only and dual LCD/ TV display

(F8)

Control TV out

modes.

LCD and external display

Only LCD

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Using the Keyboard

Combinations/

Feature

Function

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+

(F12)

System Hibernation

Fn+D

Video standby

Turns off the LCD to save power. To turn the LCD back

on, press any key.

Fn+F

Change the

display size

Zooms the display size in or out when the display is set

to a low resolution.

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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22 VAIO Notebook Computer 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.

Pointer

Right button

Touchpad

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.

Double-click Press the left button twice.

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 Help for information on touchpad features, such as clicking both buttons}

simultaneously, adjusting touchpad speed, and Easy Launcher functions. To access Mouse

Help, click the Start button, select Settings, and then Control Panel. Click the Mouse icon in

the Control Panel and click the Help button.

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Using the Floppy Disk Drive

The computer comes with the floppy disk drive in the multipurpose bay.

To insert a diskette

Hold the diskette with 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 press the Eject button when the LED indicator is turned on. Otherwise, data may be lost.}

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24 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide

To remove the floppy disk drive

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 RELEASE lever

Slide the drive out of the multipurpose ba y .

Insert the weight saver. See “Using the Weight Saver” on page 40.

To reinsert the floppy disk drive

Turn off the computer.

If another device is in the multipurpose bay, remove the device. See

“To remove the floppy disk drive” on page 24 or “To remove the

second battery pack” on page 39.

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.

Multipurpose bay

Floppy disk drive

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Using the DVD-ROM

Your computer comes with a DVD-ROM drive. The DVD-ROM drive

plays both DVD-ROMs and CD-ROMs.

To insert a disc

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 document

Customizing Your VAIO Notebook Computer for more information on System Suspend

and System Hibernation modes.

Press the Eject button to open the DVD-ROM drive.

The tray slides out.

Eject button

Place a DVD-ROM/ CD-ROM in the tray with the label side facing

up. For DVD-ROMs, which can be played on both sides, the side of

the disc facing up is the side that plays. Push the disc onto the hub

until the disc clicks into place.

Label side

facing up

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26 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide

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 System Suspend or System Hibernation mode, you cannot remove

a disc. See “Controlling Power Management” in the online document Customizing Your

VAIO Notebook Computer for more information about System Suspend and System

Hibernation 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.

To play DVD-ROMs

To achieve optimum performance when playing DVD-ROMs, you should

use the following recommendations: Your computer should not

be connected to the port replicator while playing DVD movies or using

DVD applications. Close any open applications before playing a DVD

movie. The DVD player automatically adjusts the screen properties when

you play a DVD movie. Depending on the display setup properties you

have selected, you may need to use the Fn + F command to expand the

movie to full-screen size.

✍ ^{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 document Customizing Your VAIO Notebook Computer for information on

how to set the power-management profile.

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Using the DVD-ROM

Playing a DVD

❑

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.

❑

While playing a DVD, the display mode is 1024 x 768 dots and the

number of colors is set to 256. This improves play performance.

! 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.

To minimize the play mode window, see “To play a DVD in Normal

Display Mode” on page 27.

If you have connected a TV, follow the instructions in “Selecting the

Display Mode” in the online document Customizing Your VAIO Notebook

Computer.

To play a DVD in Normal Display Mode

To play a DVD in a display mode of 1024 x 768 (16 bits):

Click Stop in the DVD Player window. If you have maximized the

DVD player window, right-click the window to display the pop-up

menu. Choose “Show Control Panel” to display the DVD player

window forward.

Click Setting to display the DVD Setup window.

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28 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide

Remove the check from “Set to display 256 colors when playing back

a DVD.”

Click OK to confirm the setting.

To display wallpaper while playing a DVD

Follow the instructions in “To play a DVD in Normal Display Mode”

on page 27, or

Follow step 1 and step 2 of “To play a DVD in Normal Display Mode”

on page 27, then remove the check from the check box labeled “Do

not show wallpaper when playing back DVD.”

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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 I or two Type II PC cards, or one Type III PC}

card. These slots are compatible with Card Bus.

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 document Customizing Your VAIO Notebook Computer 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.

To insert a PC card

Use the lower slot for Type III PC cards.

✍ ^{You do not need to shut down the computer before inserting or removing a PC card.}

Pull the PC card release button out from the computer and push it in

toward the computer.

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30 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide

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.

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 comes out.

Insert with the

arrow facing forward

PC card

✍ ^{Do not force a card into the slot as this may damage the connector pins. If you have}

difficulty inserting a card, check that you are inserting the card with the correct orientation.

See the manual that came with your PC card for more information on use.

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.

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Using PC Cards

To remove a PC card

Close any applications that are using the PC card.

Click the PC card icon in the taskbar and close the card window.

Pull the PC card release button up and press it in toward the

computer.

Gently grasp the card and pull it out.

Insert the PC card slot protector back into the empty slot.

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32 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide

Using Smart Connect

The preinstalled Smart Connect software allows you to use an i.LINK

cable (not supplied) to connect your VAIO Notebook Computer to

another VAIO computer that also has Smart Connect. You can then use

one computer to copy, delete, and edit files on the other computer. You

can also print from a printer attached to either computer.

✍ ^{When you use Smart Connect to connect two VAIO computers, you must assign each}

computer a unique name by which it can be identified when the two computers are

networked.

See the Smart Connect online help for more information.

i.LINK cable

i.LINK cables compatible with your VAIO notebook computer include

cables with the following part numbers: VMC-IL4415 (a 1.5-meter cable

with a 4-pin connector at each end), VMC-IL4435 (a 3.5-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-IL4635 (a 3.5-meter cable with a 4-pin connector at one end and a

6-pin connector at the other).

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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

Align the infrared ports on the two computers so that they are in a

direct line.

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34 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide

✍ ^{Infrared communication capability can be turned on and off. By default, it is not enabled}

when your system is shipped. To enable infrared use, click the infrared icon in the Windows

Control Panel and select the Enable infrared communication check box on the Options tab.

You can disable infrared communication when you are not using it to conserve battery life.

Use the infrared icon in the Windows Control Panel to enable and disable infrared

communication. Do not use the icon in the taskbar.

Check the Status tag of the Infrared Monitor in the Windows Control Panel to determine if

the infrared device is detected.

If the two devices are too far apart or too close together, data transfer may be interrupted or

there may be noise in the transmission.

Do not cover the infrared ports with your hand or any other object.

Avoid direct sunlight, fluorescent light, or flashing incandescent light near the infrared

ports.

The active area of infrared transmission extends about 39 / inches (1 meter) with a radius

of approximately 15 degrees.

Infrared port

approximately

15 degrees

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Using 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, you should 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

This is the normal state of your computer when it is in use. The green

power indicator light is on in this mode. To save power, you can turn off a

specific device such as the LCD or the hard disk.

System Idle Mode

This mode is convenient if you do not need to use your computer for a

brief period. The hard disk and video display enter a low power state,

and the CPU clock and processor stop. The power indicator light is tan in

this mode.

To activate System Idle mode

Press Fn+S, or use the PowerPanel utility.

To return to normal mode

Press any key. Note that resuming from System Idle using the touchpad or

mouse is not possible. You must press a key, a PPK (see “Starting Your

Favorite Software with Programmable Power Key (PPK) Setup” in the

online document Customizing Your VAIO Notebook Computer), or the

power button.

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36 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide

System Suspend Mode

The computer saves the current state of the system in RAM and switches

off power to the CPU. The tan power indicator light flashes in this mode.

To activate System Suspend mode

Press 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.

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

Press Fn+F12. The “Save to Disk Manager” screen appears, and then the

computer enters System Hibernation mode. You can also use the

PowerPanel utility to enter System Hibernation 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 to return to normal mode

System Idle requires less time than System Suspend, and System

Suspend requires less time than System Hibernation.

Power consumption

System Idle uses more power than System Suspend, and System

Suspend uses more power than System Hibernation.

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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.

To insert a second battery pack

If another device is in the multipurpose bay, remove the device. See

“To remove the floppy disk drive” on page 24.

Insert the battery pack into the multipurpose bay.

If the battery is being used, the battery 2 indicator light turns on.

Multipurpose bay

Battery pack

Label side facing down

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 40.

Battery pack

Weight saver

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38 VAIO Notebook Computer 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 10 for more information.

Battery indicators

Second battery pack

(not supplied)

Battery pack (supplied)

✍ ^{To determine the amount of time the battery lasts, see “Displaying Battery Information” in}

the online document Customizing Your VAIO Notebook Computer.

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Using a Second Battery Pack

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.

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.

Arrow 2: RELEASE lever

Arrow 1: Weight saver Release lever

Remove the weight saver, and then pull out the battery pack.

Reinsert the weight saver. See “Using the Weight Saver” on page 40.

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40 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide

Using the Weight Saver

The weight saver protects the multipurpose bay when it is empty.

To attach the weight saver

If another device is in the multipurpose bay, remove the device. See

“To remove the floppy disk drive” on page 24 or “To remove the

second battery pack” on page 39.

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.

Weight saver (supplied)

Manually lock the weight saver’s Release lever.

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Using the Weight Saver

To remove the Weight Saver

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.

Arrow 1: Weight saver Release lever

Arrow 2: Release lever

After removing the weight saver, pull out the weight saver’s hinged

arm and fold it into the weight saver.

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42 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide

Connecting Peripheral Devices

You can add functionality to your computer by connecting any of these

peripherals:

❑

Phone line (page 43)

Port replicator (page 44)

Printer (page 48)

External display (page 49)

External mouse or keyboard (page 52)

External speakers (page 53)

External microphone (page 54)

Digital still camera or other serial device (page 55)

Digital video camera recorder (page 56)

Universal Serial Bus (USB) device (page 57)

✍ ^{Before you connect peripherals, turn off the computer and all peripherals.}

You do not need to turn off your computer to connect USB devices.

Connect the power cord only after connecting all cables.

Turn on the computer only after turning on all peripherals.

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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 computer, register your software online, and}

use Sony Customer Support, you must connect to a phone line. You must register your

computer to receive the extended warranty.

Plug one end of the phone cable into the phone line jack on the

computer.

Phone line jack

Wall jack

Phone cable (not supplied)

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.

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44 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide

Connecting the Port Replicator

Your notebook computer supports the use of an optional port replicator.

Attaching a port replicator enables you to connect additional peripherals

to your computer.

USB (page 57)

Network (Ethernet)

Monitor (page 49)

Serial (page 55)

Printer (page 48)

DC In (page 8)

Mouse/Keyboard (page 52)

✍ ^{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.

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Connecting the Port Replicator

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.

Turn off your computer and disconnect all peripherals.

On the bottom of the computer, slide the port replicator connector

cover open.

Port replicator connector

Attach the bottom of the computer to the port replicator connector

until it clicks.

Notebook computer

Port replicator

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46 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide

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.

AC adapter

Power cord

✍ ^{Use the AC adapter that comes with your computer or the optional Sony PCGA-ACX1}

adapter.

The power indicator light turns green.

Release lever

Power

Port replicator connector

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

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.

Lever

Lift the computer away from the port replicator.

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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48 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide

Connecting a Printer

You can connect a Windows 98-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.

Power cord

Printer

Printer cable

(supplied with the printer)

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 “I cannot

print” on page 64.

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 document

Customizing Your VAIO Notebook Computer.

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Connecting an External Display

You can connect an external display to your notebook computer. For

example, you can use the computer with any of the following:

❑

Computer display (monitor) (page 49)

Multimedia computer display (page 50)

Projector (page 50)

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.

Computer display

Power cord

Monitor

Display cable (not supplied)

✍ ^{See the manual that came with your computer display for more information on installation}

and use.

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50 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide

To connect a multimedia computer display

You can connect the notebook computer to a multimedia computer

display that includes built-in speakers and a microphone.

Use the

cable into this connector.

symbol to locate the Monitor connector. Plug the display

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.

Projector

Monitor

Power cord

Audio cable (not supplied)

RGB signal cable

✍ ^{See the manual that came with your projector for more information on installation and use.}

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Connecting an External Display

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 document Customizing Your VAIO Notebook

Computer for more information.

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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52 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide

Connecting an External Mouse or Keyboard

You can connect a PS/ 2 -style mouse or keyboard.

Plug the keyboard cable or mouse cable into this connector with

the mark facing up.

Mouse

or Keyboard

To connect both a mouse and keyboard at the same time, use the optional

PS/ 2 division connector.

✍ ^{See “Using the Keyboard” on page 16 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.

The Sony USB mouse PCGA-UMS1 (not supplied) is a USB device. So you must connect it to

the USB connector.

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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.

Speakers

Speaker cable

(supplied with speakers)

Headphone

✍ ^{See the manual that came with your speakers for more information on installation and use.}

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54 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide

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.

Microphone

✍ ^{See the manual that came with your microphone for more information on installation and}

use.

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Connecting a Digital Still Camera or Other Serial Device

Connecting a Digital Still Camera

or Other Serial Device

You can connect other computer peripherals, such as the Sony Digital Still

Camera, to the Serial connector on your computer.

To connect a digital still camera

✍ ^{If your digital video camera recorder includes a Memory Stick™ Media slot, you can copy}

images from it to your computer via a Memory Stick card. Copy images to the Memory Stick

card and insert the card into the optional Memory Stick/PC Card Adapter. Insert the adapter

into the PC card slot on your computer.

❑

Use the

symbol to locate the Serial connector. Plug the connecting

cable (not supplied) into this port on the computer and into the

Digital I/ O connector on the digital still camera.

Digital still camera

to Digital I/O

Connecting cable

Serial

(not supplied)

✍ ^{The Sony Digital Still Camera is pictured; you may need to connect your camera differently.}

See the manual that came with your digital camera or other serial device for more

information on installation and use.

If you use a digital camera that has an infrared data communication system or other infrared

communication device, see “Using Infrared Communication Devices” on page 33.

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56 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide

Connecting a Digital Video Camera Recorder

You can connect an i.LINK-enabled digital video camera recorder to

the S400 i.LINK

(IEEE-1394) 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.

Digital video

camera recorder

to i.LINK

to DV In/Out

i.LINK cable

(not supplied)

✍ ^{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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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.

USB device

USB connecting cable

(not supplied)

USB

You can use the optional Sony USB mouse PCGA-UMS1 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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58 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide

Troubleshooting

This section describes how to solve common problems you may

encounter when using your computer. Many problems have simple

solutions, so try these suggestions before you call Sony Customer

Support.

✍ ^{When you reconnect devices be sure to turn off the computer as described in “Shutting}

Down Your Computer” on page 13. Turning off the computer using other methods may

result in data loss.

My computer does not start

❑

Check that the computer is p lugged into a power source and that it is

turned on. Check that the power indicator on the front panel of the

computer 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 Peripheral Devices” on page 42.

❑

If you plugged the computer 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 computer

for at least one hour and then turn on the computer.

When the internal backup battery is low on power, it may not be able

to start your system properly. The message “Press <F1> to resume,

<F2> to setup” would appear at the bottom of the display. Should this

happen:

Press F2. The BIOS Setup menu appears.

Set the date (month/ day/ year). Press Enter to move to the next

item. To enter 01/ 31/ 1999, for example, type 1, press Enter, type

31, press Enter, type 1999, then press Enter.

Press Ð to select System Time, then set the time (hour: minute:

second). Press Enter to move to the next item.

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Troubleshooting

Press Î to select Exit, then press Ð to select Get Default Values.

The message “Load default configuration now?” appears.

Check that Yes is selected, and press the Enter key. If No is

selected, press Í to select Yes.

Select Exit (Save Changes), then press the Enter key. The message

“Save Configuration changes and exit now?” appears.

Check that Yes is selected, then press the Enter key. The computer

restarts.

When I turn on my computer, the message “Operating system not found”

appears and Windows does not start

❑

Check the floppy disk drive to see if a non-bootable diskette is in the

drive.

❑

If a non-bootable diskette is in the drive, turn off the computer,

remove the diskette, and then turn on the computer again. Confirm

that Windows starts properly. If Windows still does not start, follow

the procedure below to initialize the BIOS.

❑

If the floppy disk drive is empty, follow the steps below to initialize

the BIOS:

1 Remove any peripheral devices connected to the computer.

2 Turn the computer off and then turn it on again.

3 Turn on the computer and press the F2 key when the Sony logo appears.

The BIOS setup menu screen appears.

4 Press the arrow keys to select the Exit menu.

5 Press the arrow keys to select Get Default Values and then press the Enter

key. The message “Load default configuration now?” appears.

6 Check that Yes is selected, then press the Enter key.

7 Press the arrow keys to select Exit (Save Changes) and then press the Enter

key. The message “Save configuration changes and exit now?” appears.

8 Check that Yes is selected, then press the Enter key. The computer restarts.

If your computer still displays the message “Operating system not

found” and Windows does not start, contact Sony Customer Support.

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60 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide

My LCD does not display anything

❑

Check that the computer is plugged into a power source and that it is

turned on. Check that the power indicator on the front panel of the

computer is on.

❑

Check that the battery packs are inserted properly and that they are

charged.

The computer may be in LCD (Video) Standby mode. Press any key

to activate the display.

The screen image on my external display is not centered or sized properly

Use the controls on your external display to adjust the image. See the

manual supplied with your display for more information.

My computer “locks up”

❑

Try restarting the computer. On the Windows taskbar, click the Start

button, click Shut Down, and then click Restart the computer.

If you cannot restart as described in the preceding step, you can

restart the computer by pressing Ctrl+Alt+Delete.

If the previous step does not work, press the power button and hold it

for at least four seconds. This turns off the power.

If your computer locks up while playing a DVD-ROM/ CD-ROM,

stop the DVD-ROM/ CD-ROM, and restart the computer by pressing

Ctrl+Alt+Delete.

✍ ^{Pressing Ctrl+Alt+Delete may result in data loss in files that are currently open.}

My software program “locks up” or crashes

Contact the software publisher or designated provider for technical

support. See either the printed or the online version of Read Me First for a

complete list of phone numbers.

My DVD-ROM drive tray does not open

❑

Make sure the computer 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.

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Troubleshooting

I cannot play a CD-ROM

❑

Make sure the label of the CD-ROM is facing up.

If the CD-ROM requires software, make sure the software is installed

according to the program’s instructions.

❑

Moisture condensation may have occurred. Leave the computer for at

least 1 hour while the computer is turned on.

❑

Clean the CD-ROM.

Check the speaker volume.

I cannot play a DVD-ROM

❑

If a region code warning appears when you are using the DVD

player, it could be that the DVD-ROM you are trying to play is

incompatible with the DVD-ROM drive in your notebook computer.

The region code is listed on the disc’s packaging.

❑

If you hear audio but cannot see video, your computer’s video

resolution may be set too high. For best results, change the Windows

Control Panel/ Display/ Settings to 800 x 600 using 256 colors.

If you see video but cannot hear audio, check all of the following:

Make sure your DVD player’s mute setting is off. Check the master

volume setting in the audio Mixer. If you have connected speakers

externally, check the volume settings in your computer speakers and

check the connections between your speakers and the computer.

Check the Windows Control Panel/ System/ Device Manager to see

that the drivers are installed properly.

❑

A dirty or damaged disc may cause the computer to “hang” while it

tries to read the disc. If necessary, reboot the computer, remove the

disc, and then check that it is not dirty or damaged.

When I click an application icon a message appears, such as “You must insert

the application CD into your CD-ROM drive,” and the software does not start

❑

Some titles require specific files that are located on the application’s

CD-ROM. Insert the disc and try starting the program again.

❑

Make sure you place the disc in the tray with the label side facing up.

My floppy disk drive cannot 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.

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62 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide

My speakers have no sound

❑

If the built-in speakers are turned off, press Fn+F3 to turn on the

speakers.

If the speaker volume is turned to the minimum, press Fn+F4, and

then press or ➜ to increase the volume.

If your computer 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 98.

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 modem does not work

❑

Check that the phone line is plugged into the line jack. See

“Connecting a Phone Line” on page 43 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 computer modem. (All preinstalled programs are

compatible.) Call the software publisher or Sony Customer Support.

My modem connection is slow

The computer’s modem uses V.90 technology. Many factors influence

modem connection speed, including telephone line noise or compatibility

with telephone equipment (such as fax machines or other modems). If

you think your modem is not connecting properly to other 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.

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Troubleshooting

❑

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 (ISP), check that the ISP is not experiencing technical

problems.

If you have a second phone line available, try connecting the modem

to that line.

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 54 for details.

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 52 for details.

❑

If you connected an external mouse while your computer is on, you

must restart your computer.

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

You may have disabled the touchpad while no mouse was connected to

the computer. If so, you must restart the computer to make the touchpad

work again.

I cannot use 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

the power to all connected devices and disconnect unused devices.

Check the connection, then turn on the power again.

My touchpad interprets a single tap as a double-click

Click the Mouse icon in the Control Panel and then change the button

assignments in the Mouse Properties dialog box. One of the buttons is

assigned to the double-click action.

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64 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide

My computer does not shut down

It is best to shut down your computer using the Shut Down command on

the Windows 98 Start menu. Using other methods, including those listed

here, may result in loss of unsaved data. If the Shut Down command does

not work properly, follow these steps:

❑

Restart the computer by pressing Ctrl+Alt+Delete. If this does not

work, press the power button and hold it for at least four seconds to

turn off the power.

❑

Unplug the computer from the AC adapter and remove the battery

pack from your computer.

My PC card is not working

❑

Make sure the PC card is compatible with Windows 98.

Use the Sony Notebook Setup utility to disable devices you are not

currently using.

The sound of my computer’s fan is too loud

Use the PowerPanel utility to change the Thermal Control Strategy

setting to Quiet. This setting slows down the CPU fan speed. See the

PowerPanel Help for more information.

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 bidirectional. If the printer port mode is set

to bidirectional, change it to ECP. See “Displaying the Sony Notebook

Setup Screen” in the online document Customizing Your VAIO

Notebook Computer for details on using Sony Notebook Setup.

❑

Your connected printer may not function after the computer resumes

from a power-saving mode. When this occurs, follow the procedures

below 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 now

function properly.

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Troubleshooting

Power Management

The operating system may become unstable if a lower power state such as

system hibernation is initiated and then changed before the operating

system completely enters the lower power state. To restore the computer

to its normal operating stability, close all open applications, press the

power button, and hold it for four seconds or more to completely shut

down the computer.

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66 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide

Changing the Window Design of Sony Software

To change the window design of Sony software:

Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.

Double-click UI Design Selector.

Click <<or>> and select the desired design.

Click Apply. The UI Design Selector window design changes. The

window design for your software will match the UI Design Selector

window.

To choose another selection, click <<or>>.

Click OK. The UI Design Selector closes and the window design of

your Sony software displays.

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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 accidentally erased. You may not need to recover the

entire contents of your hard drive. If you experience a problem with your

computer, reinstalling an individual device driver or software title may

correct the problem. Use the Application Recovery CD(s) to reinstall

individual applications or device drivers. See “Using the Application

Recovery CD(s)” on page 69.

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 computer you purchased.

The System Recovery utility gives you three options:

❑

Full Restore without Format restores all the software titles that

originally came with your computer without formatting the hard

disk.

Full Restore with Format formats the hard disk drive and then

restores all the original software. If your hard drive is partitioned into

C and D drives, the computer offers you the option to reformat the

drive into a single partition.

❑

Operating System Only restores the Windows 98 Second Edition

operating system, the notebook computer utility programs, and the

device drivers that shipped with your computer.

! If you choose the Full Restore with Format or Operating System Only option,

your hard disk will be formatted, which removes all the information on the

hard disk drive. You will lose any software you have installed and any other

files you have created since you started to use your computer. This means you

will have to reinstall any applications that were not included with the

computer when you purchased it. If you choose the Full Restore without

Format option, you may need to reinstall applications that were not included

with the computer when you purchased it. If you have any questions on using

the System Recovery CD, contact Sony Customer Support.

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68 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide

To use the System Recovery CD(s)

✍ ^{You need to complete the Microsoft}Windows 98 registration process when you use the

System Recovery CD. Make sure you have the product ID number located on the cover of

your Microsoft Windows 98 Getting Started manual. You will need this number to complete

the recovery process.

Insert the Sony System Recovery CD in the DVD-ROM drive.

✍ ^{The System recovery utility boots from the DVD-ROM drive. It must be in the DVD-ROM}

drive when you turn on the computer.

Shut down your computer as described in “Shutting Down Your

Computer” on page 13.

Wait four seconds and turn on your computer.

Click OK to signify you have read and accept the Microsoft End-User

License Agreement.

When the System Recovery menu appears, follow the on-screen

instructions to complete the recovery process.

✍ ^{Your system may include one or two System Recovery CDs. If you have two System Recovery}

CDs, insert the first CD to run the System Recovery program. You are prompted to insert the

second CD once the information from the first CD has been installed.

The recovery process takes 30 to 60 minutes to complete.

If your computer does not start from the Recovery CD

Press the power button and hold it for more than four seconds to turn

off the computer.

Turn on the computer. When the Sony logo is displayed, press the F2

key. The BIOS setup menu screen appears.

Press the arrow keys to select the Exit menu.

Press the arrow keys to select Get Default Values and then press the

Enter key. The message “Load default configuration now?” appears.

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Using the System and Application Recovery CDs

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.

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 67.

You can also use the Application Recovery CD to install Windows NT

Workstation 4.0 drivers on your computer.

✍ ^{You must be in Windows to run the Application Recovery CD. The application will not run}

from DOS. If you have any questions on using the Application Recovery CD, contact Sony

Customer Support.

To use the Application Recovery CD(s)

Turn on your computer. If your computer is already on, close all

applications.

When the Windows desktop appears, insert the Sony Application

Recovery CD in the DVD-ROM drive. The Application Recovery

utility loads automatically.

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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70 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide

About the Software on Your Computer

Your VAIO notebook computer is ready to help you work, play, learn, and

communicate as soon as you turn it on. This section gives you an

overview of the activities you can perform with your software titles. For

support information, see “For Answers to Your Software Questions” on

page 76.

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^®Business 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.

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.

AT&T WorldNet^®Service

AT&T

Fast, reliable Internet access from AT&T WorldNet Service. AT&T

WorldNet Service provides web-based e-mail, a personalized start page

from Excite, easy access to the Excite search engine, free web pages,

online and live agent technical support, instant messaging, and special

shopping discounts at Market Square.

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About the Software on Your Computer

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™ Still

Sony Electronics

Connect a digital video camera recorder to the i.LINK connector and

capture your own still images. You can save your images in a variety of

popular file formats.

DVgate™ Motion

Sony Electronics

Connect a digital video camera recorder to the i.LINK connector and

capture your own video images. You can edit clips from your video, add

others, and combine clips into new movie segments.

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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72 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide

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 for Windows^®98

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^®Outlook^®98

Microsoft Corporation

Outlook 98 is Microsoft's premier messaging and collaboration client. It

combines the leading support for Internet standards-based messaging

systems with integrated calendar, contact, and task-management

features.

Microsoft^®Works Suite 99

Microsoft Corporation

Microsoft Works Suite 99 is an integrated program for creating

spreadsheets, databases, calendars, and more. The Works Calendar

reminds you of important dates.

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.

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About the Software on Your Computer

PictureGear™

Sony Electronics

This image management software displays images from your hard drive,

a Sony digital still camera, or a Sony Mavica camera. The images appear

in a convenient light-table format, so that you can easily view the

contents of an entire folder.

Prodigy Internet™

Prodigy Communications Corporation

An 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 99

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.

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74 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide

Smart Connect

Sony Electronics

Smart Connect allows you to use an i.LINK cable to connect your VAIO

computer to another VAIO computer that supports Smart Connect. You

can then use one computer to copy, delete, and edit files on the other

computer. You can also print from a printer attached to either computer.

Smart Label

Sony Electronics

This tool allows you to record your voice and play it back at any time to

remind you of important information, such as telephone numbers or

appointments. It can also be used as a normal text memo pad. It can

record a voice memo up to 60 seconds long. You can combine this with

pictures and/ or text to create a memo that you can place on your

computer desktop.

Smart Pad

Sony Electronics

Smart Pad enables you to record handwritten information such as text,

symbols, simple maps, and drawings.

Smart Publisher

Sony Electronics

Smart Publisher makes it easy for you to send web pages to the Internet

using e-mail or FTP.

Smart Write

Sony Electronics

A word processor that allows you to create documents that incorporate

pictures and sound. With Smart Write, you can record your voice right

into the page and draw directly onto your documents with a computer

“pencil.”

WinFax^®Basic Edition

Symantec Corporation

WinFax Basic incorporates an easy-to-use interface that allows you to

send and receive faxes easily. Upgrade to WinFax Pro to receive

additional features.

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About the Software on Your Computer

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.

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76 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide

For Answers to Your Software Questions

Acrobat Reader, Adobe PhotoDeluxe Business Edition

(Adobe Systems Incorporated)

http:/ / www.adobe.com/

206-628-2746 (fee-based support)

206-628-5737

website

phone

fax

techdocs@adobe.com

M-F, 6 AM-5 PM PT

e-mail

hours

America Online (America Online)

http:/ / www.aol.com/

800-827-3338

website

phone

hours

7 days a week, 24 hours a day

AT&T WorldNet® Service (AT&T)

http:/ / www.worldnet.att.net

800-400-1447

website

phone

e-mail

hours

worldnet@attmail.com

7 days a week, 24 hours a day

CompuServe 2000 (CompuServe, Inc.)

http:/ / www.compuserve.com/

website

phone

hours

800-848-8990

M-F, 8 AM - 1 AM ET, S-S 10 AM - 10 PM ET

EarthLink Network® (EarthLink Network, Inc.)

http:/ / help.earthlink.net/ techsupport/

website

phone

e-mail

hours

800-395-8410

support@earthlink.net

7 days a week, 24 hours a day

McAfee VirusScan (Network Associates, Inc.)

http:/ / support.mcafee.com

website

phone

e-mail

hours

408-988-3832

cybr@nai.com

M-F 9AM-5PM Central Time

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For Answers to Your Software Questions

Netscape Communicator ^{(Netscape Communications Corporation})

http:/ / www.netscape.com/

888-4SONYPC (888-476-6972)^*

7 days a week, 24 hours a day

website

phone

hours

* Support from 1-888-4SONY PC is free of charge for 90 days after the original date of purchase.

Prodigy Internet™ (Prodigy Communications Corporation)

http:/ / www.prodigy.com/

800-213-0992

website

phone

hours

7 AM - 3 AM ET

Quicken ^{Basic (Intuit Inc.})

http:/ / www.intuit.com/ support/

900-555-4688

website

phone

hours

7 days a week, 24 hours a day

Windows 98 Operating System, Word, Works, Money, Internet Explorer,

Outlook 98 (Microsoft Corporation)

http:/ / www.microsoft.com/ support/

888-4SONYPC (888-476-6972)^*

7 days a week, 24 hours a day

website

phone

hours

* Support from 1-888-4SONY PC is free of charge for 90 days after the original date of purchase.

Sony Service Center

For the Sony Service Center nearest you, call 1-888-4SONYPC

(1-888-476-6972).

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78 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide

Adding Memory

In the future you may want to install memory modules to expand the

functionality of your computer. You can increase memory up to 256 MB

(128MB x 2), by installing optional memory modules. 128 MB of memory

are already installed (64MB x 2). You can add an expansion memory

module in a slot. 128 MB expansion memory modules are available as

optional memory modules.

✍ ^{The size of your memory may differ if you purchased a specially configured system.}

! Make sure you observe the proper safety precautions when you install memory

modules 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.

❑

The procedures described below assume familiarity with the general

terminology associated with personal computers and with the safety

practices and regulatory compliance required for using and

modifying electronic equipment.

Disconnect the 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. Failure to do

so may result in personal injury or equipment damage.

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

128

^†128 MB is the default memory amount.

To remove a memory module

Shut down your computer and disconnect all peripheral devices,

such as your printer.

Unplug the computer and remove the battery packs.

Wait until the computer cools down. Then unscrew the screw at the

bottom of your computer. Loosen the screw with an appropriate

screwdriver.

screw

Touch a metal object (such as the connector panel on the back of your

computer) to discharge static electricity.

Remove the memory module.

1 Pull the tabs in the direction of the arrows.

The memory module is released.

2 Pull the memory module in

the direction of the arrow.

Tighten the screw on the bottom of the computer.

✍ ^{Your computer comes with a memory module installed in the memory slot. To upgrade your}

memory you will need to remove this module from the slot before installing your upgrade

memory.

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80 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide

To install a memory module

Follow steps 1 to 4 of “To remove a memory module.”

Remove the memory module from its packaging.

Install the memory module.

1 Slide the memory module into the slot.

2 Press the module into place until it clicks.

Tighten the screw on the bottom of the computer.

To view the amount of memory

Turn on the computer.

Click the Start button, point to VAIO, and click “Sony Notebook

Setup.”

The Sony Notebook Setup screen appears.

Click the “About This Computer” tab to view the amount of system

memory. If the additional memory is not shown, repeat steps 1-4 in

“To install a memory module.”

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Specifications

Model

PCG-F370

450 MHz* Pentium III

12.0 GB^†

PCG-F390

500 MHz* Pentium III

12.0 GB^†

Processor

Hard Disk Drive

Standard RAM

128 MB SDRAM,

expandable to 256 MB

128 MB SDRAM,

expandable to 256 MB

LCD Screen

14.1” XGA TFT

256 KB (on die)

15.0” XGA TFT

256 KB (on die)

L2 Cache Memory

MPEG

MPEG2 Digital Video; supports full-screen playback

128-bit accelerator with 2.5 MB Video RAM

16-bit CD-quality stereo sound

Graphics

Sound Capabilities

Diskette Drive

DVD-ROM Drive

Removable 3.5” 1.44 MB

Reads CD data from 10.3X to 24X variable transfer rate.^‡Reads

DVD data from 1.7X to 4X variable transfer rate.**

Laser Diode

Properties

DVD-ROM drive wave length 780 nm and 650 nm;

laser output 4.59 µW

Modem

Infrared

Drive Bay

K56flex™ technology/ V.90 compatible modem^††

Supports 4 Mbps, 1.1 Mbps, and 115 Kbps IrDA Standard

Supports floppy disk drive (included)

Supports second rechargeable battery (optional)

Expansion

Capabilities

Type II PC cards and

Type III PC card

Card Bus support

Built-in Capabilities

Microphone

Stereo speakers

Digital touch pad

Telecommunication

Capabilities

Data and fax send/ receive^††

Connection

Capabilities

2 USB Ports

i.LINK

Serial Port

Keyboard/ mouse (PS/ 2^®-style)

VGA Monitor

Video out

Parallel (printer)

Phone line (RJ-11)

Microphone

Headphone

Port Replicator

Supplied Accessories

Video cable

Floppy disk drive

Rechargeable battery

AC adapter and power cord

Weight Saver

Service

90-day limited express service^‡‡

Extendible to one year from original date

of purchase upon registration

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82 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide

Model

PCG-F370

PCG-F390

Limited Warranty

90-day parts/ labor standard^‡‡

Extendible to one year from original

date of purchase upon registration

Power Requirements

Power Management

49.5 watts maximum (19.5V DC/ AC 120-240V)

Energy Star compliant

Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI)

Battery

Lithium-ion, supports dual battery operation

Dimensions

12.8”(w) x 1.8”(h)***x 10.5”(d) 12.8”(w) x 2.1”(h)***x 10.5”(d)

(324 x 46.9 x 265.5 mm)

(324 x 54.1 x 265.5 mm)

Weight

6.8 lbs. (3.1 kg) (with battery

and weight saver)

7.3 lbs. (3.3 kg) (with battery

and floppy disk drive)

7.3 lbs. (3.3 kg) (with battery

and weight saver)

7.7 lbs. (3.5 kg) (with battery

and floppy disk drive)

Operating

Temperature

41º F to 95º F (+5º C to 35º C)

temperature gradient less than 18º F (10º C) per hour

Operating Humidity

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

Storage Humidity

-4º F to 140º F (-20º C to 60º C),

temperature gradient less than 18º F (10º C) per hour

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 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 disc 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-ROM disc 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-ROM disc 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.

^††Maximum speed for faxing is 14.4 kbps. Your modem is capable of downloading at 56 kbps using K56flex

technology or V.90. Your online service or Internet Service Provider, however, may not support this

technology or operate at this speed.

^‡‡Certain restrictions apply.

*** Height measured at thickest point. Thinnest height for PCG-F370 is 35.8mm and

PCG-F390 is 38.5mm.

If a region code warning appears when you are using the DVD player, it could be that the DVD-ROM 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 DVD discs to indicate what type of player can play the discs. Unless

a “1” or “ALL” is labeled on your DVD disc or on the packaging, you cannot play the disc on this player.

Specifications are subject to change without notice.

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Index

buttons

Eject 25 , 26

About the Software on Your

Computer 70

Finish 14

left 4

right 4

Start (Windows 98) 13

About Your Recovery CDs 75

AC adapter 4, 8

AC power 8

accessing online support 14

adding

cables

phone 4

power cord 8

cameras

hardware 42

memory 78

peripherals 42

printers 48

d i gital video recorder 56

Sony Digital Still 55

canceling commands 17

Caps Lock 4

adjusting

brightness 12, 20

contrast 20

Alt key 17

indicator light 19

CD-ROM/ DVD-ROM discs

ejecting 26

Application Recovery CD 69

Applications key 17

attaching port replicator 45

inserting 25

troubleshooting 61

c harge status indicator light 10

charging battery packs 10, 38

choosing

power source 9

coin-operated telephones 43

computer

battery packs 4, 9

charging 10, 38

indicator light status 10

indicator lights 4, 10, 19, 37

inserting 9

inserting into battery bay 9

loading 9

power status 10

rechargeable 8

lithium ion battery vi

setting up 4

starting 12

troubleshooting 58, 60

unpacking 2

removing 11, 37, 39

brightness

connecting

adjusting 12, 20

built-in speakers 4