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Welcome ® ® Congratulations on your purchase of this Sony VAIO computer , and welcome to the online VAIO Computer User Guide . This user guide provides detailed information on all aspects of using your new VAIO computer , from keyboard functions to preinstalled software applications . In the left navigation window , click the topics you want to learn more about , and that information will be displayed in this main window . Click here to find the latest updates and supplemental information about your computer . Click here to view your computer's hardware specifications and software information . Page 1
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Using Your VAIO Computer This section describes the following aspects of your new computer : Using the Keyboard  Using VAIO Action Setup  Using the Jog Dial Control  Using Memory Stick Media  Using PC Cards  Using Power Saving Modes  Connecting a Phone Line  Connecting to a LAN  Connecting to a Wireless LAN  Page 2
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Using the Keyboard Your keyboard is very similar to a typewriter's , but your computer keyboard has additional keys that perform specific computer - related tasks . Keyboard Page 3
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Functions of the keyboard keys 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 . Numbers appear on the front beveled edge of the numeric keys . 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 Several keys are devoted to moving the cursor on the screen ( the four arrow keys which also function as the Home , End , Page Up , and Page Down keys ) . Correction keys The Insert , Backspace , and Delete keys enable you to make corrections in your documents . Function keys The twelve function keys along the top of the keyboard are used to perform designated tasks . For example , in many applications , F1 is the Help key . The task associated with each function key may vary from one application to the next . Escape key The Esc ( Escape ) key is used to cancel commands . ® Print Screen key The Print Screen key takes an electronic snapshot of the screen and places it in the Windows Clipboard . You can then paste the screen shot into a document and print it . Operator keys ( Shift , Ctrl , Alt 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 the S key ( referred to as Ctrl + S ) . The Shift key operates the same way as on a typewriter ; it is used to produce capital letters or special symbols , such as @ and $ . ® Windows key ® ® The key with the Windows logo displays the Windows Start menu ; it's the equivalent of clicking the Start button on the taskbar . See Combinations and functions with the Windows key for more information . Fn key The Fn key is used in combination with other keys to issue commands . The Fn keys at the left and right sides both work the same . See Combinations and functions with the Fn key for more information . 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 . Page 4
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Combinations and functions with the Windows key Combination Function ® + F1 Displays VAIO Help and Support Center . + Tab Switches the selected button on the taskbar . ® + E Displays Windows Explorer . + F Displays the Search window to find a file or folder . This is the equivalent of selecting Search from the Start menu . + Ctrl + F Displays the Search Results : Computers window where you can locate other computers . This is the equivalent of selecting Search and then Computers from the Start menu . + M Minimizes all displayed windows ( with Num Lock off ) . 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 System Properties window . This is the equivalent of selecting Control Panel and then System from the Start menu . Page 5
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Indicators Indicator Function Power Light is green when the power to the computer is turned on , flashes amber in Standby mode , and turns off when the computer is in Hibernate mode or powered off . Battery Indicates the status of the battery inserted in the computer . Hard disk Lights when data is read from or written to the hard disk drive . Do not enter Standby mode or turn off the computer when this indicator light is on . Wireless LAN Wireless LAN capability is functioning when the indicator is lit . ® Memory Stick When indicator is lit , data is read from or written to the Memory Stick media . ( Do not enter Standby mode or turn off the computer when this indicator light is on . ) When indicator is off , the Memory Stick media is not being accessed . Num Lock The number keys area in the numeric keypad are active when indicator is lit . When indicator is off , the alphanumeric character keys in the keypad area are active . Caps Lock When indicator is lit , the letters appear in uppercase as you type . The Shift key lowers the case of typed letters when Caps Lock is on . When indicator is off , the letters appear in lower case as you type ( unless you hold down the Shift key ) . Scroll Lock When indicator is lit , the screen scrolls differently . ( Exactly how it scrolls depends on the specific application . This function does not work with all applications . ) When indicator is off , information moves across the display normally . Page 6
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Combinations and functions with the Fn key If you switch user identities during a computing session , the Fn + F7 key functionality ( if available on your computer ) will be interrupted . To switch to an external display or monitor , see Selecting the Display Mode for more information . Combinations / Feature Functions Fn + ( ESC ) Standby Puts the system into Standby mode , a power management state . To return the system to the active state , press any key on your computer . Fn + ( F3 ) Speaker switch Toggles the built - in speaker off and on . Fn + ( F4 ) Speaker volume Adjusts the built - in speaker volume . To increase volume , press Fn + F4 , then or . To decrease volume , press Fn + F4 , then or . Fn + ( F5 ) Brightness control Adjusts the brightness of the LCD . To increase light intensity , press Fn + F5 and then or . To decrease light intensity , press Fn + F5 and then or . Fn + ( F7 ) Switch to the external display Toggles between the LCD , external display ( connected to the Monitor port ) , and both LCD and external display modes . Fn + ( F12 ) Hibernate 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 the original state , press the power button briefly to turn on the power . Fn + B Bass Boost Toggles the bass - boost function off and on . This feature is available only while using headphones . Fn + F Display control . Minimizes and maximizes the LCD screen . If the default display resolution is reduced , this function maximizes the display resolution to fit the screen size . Maximizing the display screen enables you to view the display at a greater resolution . ® Some functions are not available until Windows launches . Page 7
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Using VAIO Action Setup ® ® VAIO Action Setup manages the settings for your computer's Jog Dial control , Memory Stick media , and i . LINK interface . An overview of some of the functions controlled by VAIO Action Setup is provided below . For more information on changing the settings using VAIO Action Setup , right - click the Jog Dial control icon or , in the task tray and click Help Topics . Page 8
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VAIO Action Setup functions Jog Dial — Changing the Jog Dial setting  Memory Stick — Changing the Memory Stick media insertion setting  i . LINK — Changing the i . LINK device connection setting  USB — Changing the USB device connection setting  Timer — Setting the timer  Page 9
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Using the Jog Dial Control Your computer is equipped with a Jog Dial control on the bottom center portion of the unit . The Jog Dial control enables you to open an application , folder , or document from a predefined list by rotating and pressing the Jog Dial control . In addition , when you press the Jog Dial control , you can turn on your computer automatically and start the selected application or document . Using the Jog Dial Control The Jog Dial control window always appears in the display . It is either in the launcher mode or in the guide mode . For information on how to change the Jog Dial control's settings , right - click the Jog Dial control icon in the task tray and click Help Topics . Page 10
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Launcher mode The Jog Dial control window is in launcher mode until a software application is launched or the Jog Dial control window becomes active . When an arrow is displayed next to an item in the Jog Dial control window , you can display a submenu of that item by selecting it and pressing the Jog Dial control button . Using Launcher mode To use the Jog Dial control , click the Jog Dial control window or the Jog Dial control icon in the task tray . Alternatively , you can press the Jog Dial control while pressing the Ctrl key on the keyboard to switch to the launcher mode . 1 . Turn the Jog Dial control to select the item you want , then press the Jog Dial control . The window switches to the guide mode , and shows the Jog Dial control's function . Jog Dial Launcher Dialog Box 2 . Turn or press the Jog Dial control to use the desired function . 3 . To select another item , switch to the launcher mode and repeat from step 1 . Page 11
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Guide mode The Jog Dial control window is in the guide mode when software is in use and the software window is active . Depending on the software you are using , you can select items from the displayed list using the Jog Dial control . Some Sony software applications have two modes in List View , Simple Menu , and Full Menu . You can switch the mode by pressing the Shift key while turning the Jog Dial control . Using guide mode The Jog Dial control window displays the Jog Dial control's function . Page 12
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To use the Jog Dial control with Sony software If Sony software that supports the Jog Dial control is active , you can use the Jog Dial's functions that are allocated to that software . For more information on functions allocated to software , see the software application's online Help . Page 13
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To use the Jog Dial control with other software If the software you are using does not support the Jog Dial control , you can still perform the following functions : Action Description Maximize Window * Press the Jog Dial control button to maximize the size of the active window . Press again to return to normal window size . Minimize Window * Press the Jog Dial control button to minimize the size of the active window . Press again to return to normal window size . Finish Window * Press the Jog Dial control button to close the active application . Scroll * Press the Jog Dial control button to begin scrolling within the active window . Jog Dial Launcher Press the Jog Dial control button to return the Jog Dial control to Jog Launcher mode . Menu Bar Press the Jog Dial control button , then use the Jog Dial control to scroll through the active window's toolbar . * Some software applications do not support these functions . Using a dialog box When a window such as Screen Properties is active , the Dialog box is displayed in the Jog Dial window . You can select an item in the window by rotating the Jog Dial control . Pressing the Jog Dial control is the equivalent of pressing Enter . Jog Dial Guide Dialog Box Page 14
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Internal timer You can use the internal timer to start an application at a specific time . The timer , when set , can launch applications even when the computer power is off . 1 . Rotate or push the Jog Dial control , and select VAIO Action Setup in the Jog Dial Launcher window . 2 . Click Timer from the left menu , then click the clock icon . 3 . Select either Recommended Settings , Program Files , All Files , or Drag & Drop from the left menu , then select the file or application you wish to launch in the right window . 4 . Click Next until the One - Time - Only Setting dialog box appears . 5 . Select the Date and Time and click Next twice , then click Finish and close the VAIO Action Setup window . Page 15
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Using Memory Stick Media This new compact , portable , and versatile recording medium has a data capacity exceeding that of a floppy disk . The media is specially designed for exchanging and sharing digital data with compatible products . Because it is removable , the media can be used for external data storage . Page 16
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Types of Memory Stick media ® Two types of Memory Stick media are available . The first type , MagicGate Memory Stick media ( hereafter referred as MG Memory Stick media ) , is provided with copyright protection . ( The MG Memory Stick media are colored white . ) The second type , simply referred to as Memory Stick media , does not have the same copyright protection as MagicGate . ( The Memory Stick media are colored purple . ) You can use both media with your computer . For music , which requires copyright protection , you can only use MG Memory Stick media with your computer . You can also use compatible MagicGate devices to record and play back music when they are connected to your computer . You can store mixed data on the Memory Stick media . For example , you can copy an image onto MG Memory Stick media that already contains music . What is MagicGate ? MagicGate technology is copyright protection that consists of authentication and encryption technology . Authentication technology ensures that protected content is only transferred between compliant devices and media . Protected content is recorded and transferred in an encrypted format to prevent unauthorized duplication or playback . Ensure that the MG Memory Stick media has the MG mark . To insert a Memory Stick media Insert the Memory Stick media into the media slot on the right side of the computer until it clicks into place . When the Memory Stick media is properly in place , Sony's VisualFlow software will automatically launch to display the contents of the Memory Stick . ® 1 . Insert with the arrow facing toward the Memory Stick media slot and the label facing up . Inserting the media in the wrong direction may damage the connector pins . Hold the Memory Stick media with the arrow pointing in the correct direction and then turn it so the label side is down before inserting into the slot . To avoid damaging the computer or the Memory Stick Media , do not force the Memory Stick media into the slot . 2 . Carefully insert the Memory Stick media until it clicks into place . Inserting Memory Stick Page 17
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To view the contents of Memory Stick media To see the contents , do the following : ® 1 . Click Start on the Windows taskbar , and select My Computer . 2 . Under the heading ' Devices with Removable Storage , ' click Sony Memory Stick . To remove a Memory Stick media Make sure the access light is off . Push the media in toward the computer . When the media ejects , pull it out . When removing the Memory Stick media , be careful as it may eject completely from the slot . Page 18
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VisualFlow VisualFlow software is a state - of - the - art Sony multimedia browser designed specifically for Memory Stick media . To use VisualFlow 1 . From the Start menu , point to All Programs , and select VisualFlow . VAIO Action Setup has been configured to launch VisualFlow by default upon insertion of Memory Stick media . VisualFlow software starts automatically when Memory Stick media is put into the drive . 2 . Click on an icon in the View section on the main toolbar to select a display layout . 3 . Click on an icon in the Sort section on the main toolbar to select a sorting method . 4 . Resting your cursor on the left end of the main toolbar activates the current Memory Stick properties . 5 . Resting your cursor on the right end of the main toolbar activates a secondary toolbar with more functions . 6 . Click an image to show a normal view centered on the screen . Double - click an image to show an enlarged view .  7 . Movie files start playback when the view is enlarged . Click again on movie files to restore the view to normal . While an image is enlarged , the Launch toolbar appears on the bottom of the window . Any associated application can be activated from here . Page 19
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Notes on using Memory Stick media When the media's write - protect tab is set to LOCK , data cannot be recorded or erased .  Before using Memory Stick media , you should back up important data .  Wait a minimum of 10 seconds after the media finishes reading or writing data before removing it . If the media is  removed prematurely , an error message appears , prompting you to continue or exit . Reinsert the media into the slot and press Enter to continue . This enables the media to finish reading or writing data . You can enjoy video clips that you have recorded with compatible Memory Stick digital camcorders .  The media slot can accommodate one media at a time .  ® To copy images from a digital video camera via Memory Stick media , see Connecting an i . LINK AV Device for more  information . Only MG Memory Stick media can be used with copyright protected data like music .  Do not remove the media or turn off the power while the access light is on .  Do not use the media in locations that are subject to static electricity or electrical noise .  Do not touch the media connector with your finger or metallic objects .  Do not attach labels other than the supplied label to a media .  Do not bend , drop , or shock the media .  Do not disassemble or modify the media .  Do not allow the media to get wet .  Do not use or store the media in a location that is subject to :  Extremely high temperatures , such as in a car parked in the sun .  Direct sunlight .  High humidity or places with corrosive substances .  To prolong the life of the media , use the supplied storage case . See the instructions supplied with your media for more information on its use . Page 20
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Using PC Cards Your computer includes a PC Card slot . PC Cards enable you to connect portable external devices , such as an optical disc drive . The PC Card slot can accommodate a Type I or Type II PC Card . This slot is compatible with Card Bus . Type III PC Cards are not supported . Page 21
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To insert PC card You do not need to shut down the computer before inserting or removing a PC Card . 1 . Insert the PC Card into the PC Card slot with the front label facing up . Inserting PC Card 2 . Gently push the PC Card into the slot until it is firmly seated in the port and the release button pops out . Do not force a PC Card into the slot . It may damage the connector pins . When a PC Card is inserted , do not place your computer in a bag or case . Pressure or shock to a PC Card may damage your computer . Touching the head of the PC Card will not cause damage to the connector pins , but damage can occur if the head of the PC Card is sticking out of the computer while the unit is being transported . Page 22
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To remove a PC Card Follow the procedure below when you remove the PC Card while your computer is on . Failure to follow this procedure may result in a malfunction . If your computer is turned off , you do not have to follow these instructions . 1 . Double - click in the task tray . The ' Safely remove . . . PC Card ' dialog box appears . 2 . Click the dialog box . The message , ' Safe to Remove Hardware ' appears . 3 . Click to close the message . Release Button 4 . Press the release button toward the computer . The PC Card pops out . 5 . Gently grasp the PC Card and pull it out . Page 23
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Notes on PC Cards For some PC Cards , if you alternate between normal power operation and the Standby or Hibernate power  management modes while the card is inserted , you may find that a device connected to your system is not recognized . Restart your system to correct the problem . Some PC Cards may require that you disable idle devices when using the PC Card . You can use Sony Notebook  Setup to disable devices . See Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen for more information . Be sure to use the most recent software driver provided by the PC Card manufacturer .  If an exclamation mark ( ! ) appears on the Device Manager tab in the System Properties dialog box , remove the  software driver and then reinstall it . You may not be able to use some PC Cards or some functions of the PC Card with this computer . If you have  difficulty inserting a card , check that you are orienting the card correctly . See the manual supplied with your PC Card for more information on its use . Page 24
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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 enables you to turn off specific devices , your computer has two distinct power saving modes : Standby and Hibernate . When using battery power , be aware that the computer automatically enters Hibernate 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 . Page 25
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Normal mode Normal mode is the normal state of your computer when it is in use . The power indicator displays green when your computer is in this mode . To save power , you can turn off a specific device such as the LCD or the hard disk . Page 26
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Standby mode In Standby Mode the computer saves the current state of the system in RAM and switches off power to the CPU . The amber power indicator flashes in this mode . To activate Standby mode 1 . Press the key combination Fn + Esc . You can also use the PowerPanel utility to enter Standby mode . 2 . Press any key to return to normal mode . Page 27
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Hibernate mode In the Hibernate mode , the state of the system is saved on the hard disk drive and power is turned off . The power indicator is off in this mode . To activate Hibernate mode 1 . To activate Hibernate mode , press the key combination Fn + F12 , or press the power button and release it immediately . The ' Save to Disk Manager ' screen appears and the computer enters Hibernate mode . Do not move the computer until its power indicator turns off . 2 . Press the power button to return to normal mode . Page 28
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Notes on power saving modes Standby uses more power than Hibernate .  Standby requires less time than Hibernate to return to normal mode .  Page 29
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Connecting a Phone Line You need to connect a phone cable ( not supplied ) to take advantage of online services and the Internet . ® In order to register your VAIO computer , register your software online , and use Sony Customer Support , you must connect to a phone line . Page 30
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How to connect a phone cable 1 . Open the phone line jack cover , located on the left side of the computer near the front . Use care when opening the phone jack cover . Opening it too far may result in damage to the unit . Opening Phone Line Jack Cover 2 . Plug one end of the phone cable into the jack on the inside of the phone line jack cover . Make sure you insert the phone cable from the rear of the computer and that the modular jack clicks into place . 3 . Plug the other end into the wall jack . Plugging in Phone Cable Your computer does not work with party lines , cannot be connected to a coin - operated telephone , and may not work with multiple phone lines or a private branch exchange ( PBX ) . Some of these connections may result in excess electrical current and could cause a malfunction in the internal modem . If you connect a phone line coming through a splitter , the modem or connected device may not work properly . Page 31
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Connecting to a LAN You can connect your computer to 10BASE - T and 100BASE - TX - type Local Area Networks ( LANs ) by using the computer's Ethernet port . For the detailed settings and devices needed to connect to the network , ask your network administrator . Connecting to LAN Warning : Only connect 10BASE - T and 100BASE - TX cables to the Ethernet port . Do not connect any other type of network cable or any telephone line . Connecting cables other than those listed above may result in an electric current overload and could cause a malfunction , excessive heat , or fire in the port . To connect the unit to the network , contact your network administrator . If you enable Wake on LAN , the power saving mode will be switched to Standby mode . Page 32
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To connect to a network 1 . Click Start , select My Computer , and click My Network Places under the Other Places header . 2 . Click ' Add a network place ' under the Network Tasks header , or click ' Set up a home or small office network , ' depending on your configuration . 3 . Depending on your choice , either the The Add Network Place Wizard or Network Setup Wizard is displayed . 4 . Follow the step - by - step instructions that appear on the screen . Page 33
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Connecting to a Wireless LAN Your computer is equipped with a built - in mini PCI card that allows for wireless connections . With Sony's Wireless Local Area Network ( LAN ) functionality , all compatible digital devices can communicate freely without cable connections . A Wireless LAN is a network in which a mobile user can connect to a LAN through a wireless ( radio ) connection . You can opt to purchase a Wireless LAN Access Point to set up a LAN . Page 34
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Turning On Wireless LAN To enable Wireless LAN functionality , first locate the Wireless LAN switch that is located on the left side of the computer , above the PC Card slot . Move the switch to the ON position . The Wireless LAN indicator on the bottom left front portion of the computer lights up . Connecting to a wireless LAN Page 35
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The Wireless LAN Access Point The Wireless LAN Access Point , which is also called the Access Point , is designed for building a Wireless LAN environment . If you purchase an Access Point , you can easily build a wireless LAN environment by plugging the Access Point into an AC power outlet , and using the provided software with compatible devices . Because a wireless LAN configuration requires no wiring , you can operate multiple computers more freely than ever before . You can also connect an Access Point to a telephone line , Integrated Services Digital Network ( ISDN ) router , cable modem , or Digital Subscriber Line ( xDSL ) modem to share access to the Internet among multiple computers . For information on available Sony products , go to : http : / / www . sonystyle . com / vaio . Page 36
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Communicating with Access Point ( infrastructure ) An infrastructure network is one that extends an existing wired local network to wireless devices by providing an Access Point . The Access Point bridges the wireless and wired LAN , and acts as a central controller for the Wireless LAN . The Access Point coordinates transmission and reception from multiple wireless devices within a specific range . To communicate with an Access Point 1 . Turn on the Wireless LAN switch located on the left side of the computer , above the PC Card slot . The Wireless LAN indicator on the bottom left front portion of the computer lights up . 2 . Right - click the Wireless Network Connection icon in the taskbar . 3 . Click View Available Wireless Networks . The Connect to Wireless Network dialog box appears . Connecting to a wireless LAN 4 . Select the network you want to use . 5 . Type the Network Key . See your network administrator for this information . 6 . Click Connect . Communicating via Wireless LAN Access Point Page 37
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Communicating without Access Point ( ad - hoc ) An ad - hoc network is one in which a local network is created only by the wireless devices themselves , with no other central controller or Access Point . Each device communicates directly with other devices in the network . You can set up an ad - hoc network easily at home . To communicate without an Access Point , proceed as follows : 1 . Turn on the Wireless LAN switch located on the left side of the computer , above the PC Card slot . The Wireless LAN indicator on the bottom left front portion of the computer lights up . 2 . Right - click the Wireless Network Connection icon in the taskbar . 3 . Click View Available Wireless Networks . The Connect to Wireless Network dialog box appears . 4 . Click the Advanced button . The Wireless Network Connection Properties dialog box appears . Setting Wireless Network Connection Properties 5 . Select the Wireless Networks tab . 6 . Click the Add . . . button . The Wireless Network Properties dialog box appears . 7 . Enter a Network name ( SSID ) . Choose a 6 - digit name . 8 . Check the box to select Data encryption ( WEP enabled ) . 9 . Check the box to select Network Authentication ( Shared mode ) . 10 . Clear the box to deselect the option ' The key is provided for me automatically . ' Some information boxes become visible . 11 . Fill in the Network key . Choose a 5 - digit name . 12 . Click OK . Your new Network name appears in the Preferred networks window . 13 . Click Advanced . The Advanced dialog box appears . 14 . Select the option ' Computer - to - computer ( ad hoc ) networks only . ' 15 . Page 38 Click Close .
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16 . Click OK . Page 39
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Turning Off Wireless LAN To turn off Wireless LAN functionality , locate the Wireless LAN switch that is located on the left side of the computer , above the PC Card slot . Move the switch to the OFF position . The Wireless LAN indicator on the bottom left front portion of the computer turns off . Turning off the Wireless LAN functionality while accessing remote documents , files , or resources may result in data loss . Page 40
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Notes on using Wireless LAN Sony Wireless LAN devices support the IEEE802 . 11b standard . Devices connecting to a Wireless LAN using the  IEEE802 . 11a standard cannot connect to devices using the IEEE802 . 11b standard . Wireless LAN communication occurs on divided frequency bands known as channels . Third - party Wireless LAN Access  Point channels may be preset to different channels from Sony devices . If using a Wireless LAN Access Point , refer to connectivity information contained in those instructions .  Page 41
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Connecting Peripheral Devices You can add functionality to your computer by connecting a variety of peripherals , as discussed in the following sections : Connecting a Floppy Disk Drive  Connecting a PC Card Bus Drive  Connecting an i . LINK Optical Disc Drive  Connecting a USB Mouse  Connecting VAIO Computers  Connecting an i . LINK AV Device  Connecting an External Display  Connecting a USB Printer  Connecting an External Microphone  Connecting External Speakers  Expanding Your Computer's Capabilities  Page 42
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Connecting a Floppy Disk Drive You can connect an optional floppy disk drive ( FDD ) to the USB port on your computer . Page 43
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To connect the floppy disk drive You do not need to shut down the computer before connecting or disconnecting the floppy disk drive . Before removing the FDD , see To remove the floppy disk drive when the computer is on for more information . ® Plug the USB cable from the floppy disk drive into the USB port on the computer . The VAIO logo on the disk drive should be facing up . Plugging in USB Cable Page 44
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To insert a floppy disk 1 . Hold the floppy disk with the label side facing up . 2 . Gently push the floppy disk into the drive until it clicks into place . Inserting a floppy disk Page 45
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To remove a floppy disk When you finish using the floppy disk , wait until the LED indicator light turns off , and then press the Eject button to  remove the disk . Removing a floppy disk Page 46
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To remove the floppy disk drive when the computer is on 1 . Double - click the Remove Hardware icon in the task tray . 2 . The ' Unplug or Eject Hardware ' dialog displays . 3 . Select the hardware device you wish to remove by clicking it . 4 . Click Stop . 5 . Confirm the correct device is selected in the ' Stop a Hardware device ' dialog box . 6 . The message , ' Floppy Disk Drive can now be safely removed from the system ' appears . Click OK . 7 . Unplug the floppy disk drive from the computer . Page 47
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To carry the floppy disk drive Fold the floppy disk cable into the compartment on the right side . Page 48
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Notes on handling floppy disks Do not open the shutter manually and touch the surface of the disk .  Keep disks away from magnets .  Keep disks away from direct sunlight and other heat sources .  Page 49
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Connecting an i . LINK Optical Disc Drive ® 1 You can use an optional i . LINK optical disc drive , such as a Sony DVD - ROM or CD - RW / DVD Combo Drive ( PCGA - CRWD1 ) , ® with your computer . This Sony VAIO computer is preinstalled with software that enables you to create CDs and play DVD movies . The i . LINK optical disc drive draws power from the computer through the power cable that is integrated with the VAIO computer Peripheral Cable . This peripheral cable connects to both the i . LINK port and peripheral cable DC Out jack on 2 the left side of the computer . If you use an optional drive when your computer is running on battery power , the battery life will be shorter . 1 i . LINK is a trademark of Sony used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE1394 connection . The i . LINK connection may vary , depending on the software applications , operating system and compatible i . LINK devices . A ll products with an i . LINK connection may not communicate with each other . Refer to the documentation that came with your compatible i . LINK device for information on operating conditions and proper connection . Before connecting compatible i . LINK PC peripherals to your system , such as a CD - RW or hard disk drive , confirm their operating system compatibility and required operating conditions . 2 If you connect and use an optional drive when your computer is running on battery power , the battery life will be reduced . Page 50
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To connect an i . LINK optical disc drive ® Use a VAIO Computer Peripheral Cable ( supplied with the i . LINK drive ) to connect the optical disc drive to the computer . Before connecting or disconnecting this drive , close any active applications to help prevent data loss . ® 1 . Turn on power to the computer . Insert the L - shaped plug of the VAIO Computer Peripheral Cable into the matching jack on the rear of the i . LINK drive . Secure the plug by turning the screw on the cable connector clockwise . Connecting i . LINK optical disc drive ® 2 . Insert the straight - shaped , two - prong plug of the VAIO computer peripheral cable into both the computer's i . LINK port and peripheral device DC Out jack . 3 . The i . LINK drive's power indicator lights up , and the computer will automatically detect and identify the connected drive . ® 4 . Click Start on the Windows taskbar , and select My Computer to verify that an icon for the i . LINK optical disc drive has been added in the window . ® The Sony i . LINK optical disc drive is compatible only with certain Sony VAIO PCG series computers preinstalled with ® ® Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition or Professional . Page 51
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To disconnect an i . LINK optical disc drive Close all open software applications . 1 . Close all applications that use the i . LINK optical disc drive , and wait for the drive's BUSY indicator to turn off . 2 . Disconnect the VAIO Computer Peripheral Cable from the computer . Page 52
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To play a DVD ® To play a DVD , you may use the optical disc drive and the preinstalled WinDVD application . For more information , see the Help menu in the WinDVD application . Before you use the optical disc drive to play a DVD , quit any open applications . Your optical drive can read most DVD - R media . When you are ready to play a DVD , read the suggestions below to maximize your video viewing experience . When playing a DVD on battery power , set the power management profile to DVD . You can also set the power  management profile to Automatic Profile Selection if the display is not clear when using other profiles . Automatic Profile Selection sets the power management profile to DVD whenever a DVD is inserted . See Controlling Power Management for more information . If you connect your computer to a TV display , you may need to adjust the display resolution . Read the suggestions  below to set the display resolution to the proper dimensions . Also see Selecting the Display Mode for more information . If the computer is set to the default display setting , part of the video screen will not appear . To view the entire  screen , adjust the display resolution to 640 x 480 . 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 a DVD . You cannot use the Fn + F8 function to switch between LCD and TV once a DVD is inserted into the optical drive . Do not switch between LCD and the external display while the DVD is playing . This may cause a malfunction , and you may need to restart the DVD software . Do not switch the power saving modes while you are playing the DVD . Change the settings to disable the screen saver and the virus checker . Do not use memory - resident utility software to speed up disc access . This may cause the computer to malfunction . If a region code warning appears when you try to play a DVD , the DVD may be incompatible with the optical disc drive . Check the region code listing on the DVD packaging . Page 53
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To play an audio CD To play an audio CD , make sure the audio function is turned on . To do this , complete the following procedure . The optical disc drive must be installed before you begin . 1 . Open the Start menu , point to Control Panel , Performance and Maintenance , and then click System . The System Properties window appears . 2 . Select the Hardware tab and then click Device Manager in the Device Manager box . A window appears , listing your computer hardware devices . 3 . Double - click DVD / CD - ROM drives . From the drop - down list , double - click the drive name . A properties window appears . 4 . Click the Properties tab . 5 . Select the ' Enable digital CD audio for this CD - ROM device ' check box if it is not already selected and then click OK . Page 54
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Notes on CD and DVD discs Do not drop or bend the disc .  Do not touch the surface of the disc . Fingerprints and dust on the surface of a disc may cause reading errors . Proper  care of the disc is essential to maintain its reliability . Do not use solvents such as benzine , thinner , commercially available cleaners or anti - static spray , as they may cause damage to the disc . For normal cleaning , hold the disc by its edge and use a soft cloth to wipe the surface from the center out .  If the disc is badly soiled , moisten a soft cloth with water , wring it out well , and use it to wipe the surface of the disc  from the center out . Wipe off any remaining moisture with a dry , soft cloth . Page 55
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1 To write data to a CD - RW or CD - R disc ® ® You can use Sony SonicStage and Microsoft Windows XP to write data to a CD - R or CD - RW disc . To create a CD - R disc that is readable in a CD - ROM drive , make sure that you finish the writing process before ejecting the disc . For more information , ® see the instructions included with Windows XP . Do not strike or shake the computer while writing data to a disc . Always use the AC adapter as the power source for your computer if you are writing data to a CD - RW or CD - R disc . Using battery power may result in data transfer failure . Notes on writing data to a CD - RW or CD - R disc For optimal writing speed , deactivate the screen saver and exit anti - virus software before writing data to a disc .  For best results , use CD - Rs that are compatible with 8x speed .  Your computer does not support 1x writing speed .  Memory - resident disc utilities may cause unstable operation or data loss . Deactivate these utilities before writing  data to a disc . ® If your notebook computer has preinstalled Microsoft Office applications , such as Excel , Word , and Outlook , turn off  the FindFast application . Making copies of and using CD - ROMs or music CDs may violate copyright laws or the terms of the End - User Software License provided with such CD - ROMs or music CDs . Be sure to comply with the copyright laws and terms of the End User Software License when making or using original CDs . If you have any questions regarding the copyright laws or the terms of the End - user Software License , please consult with the appropriate legal experts . 1 For computer models equipped with a CD - RW / DVD Combo Drive . Page 56
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Notes on using i . LINK optical disc drives You can use the supplied Application Recovery and System Recovery CDs with an i . LINK optical disc drive . See  Application and System Recovery CDs for more information . Do not use an optional i . LINK optical disc drive and an optional optical disc drive with PC Card at the same time .  Connecting both drives may cause a system malfunction . Page 57
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Connecting a PC Card Bus Drive You can use an optional optical drive , such as a Sony DVD - ROM or CD - ROM drive ( PCGA - 51 / A ) , with your computer . If you use an optional drive when your computer is running on battery power , the battery life will be shorter . The drive draws power from the computer through a PC Card . ® If you connect a non - Sony DVD drive to your VAIO computer , the DVD playback may not function properly . The bundled DVD software must be installed to play a DVD . For best performance , it is recommended that you use a Sony compatible DVD drive . Page 58
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To connect an optical drive Procedures for connecting an optical drive may vary , depending on the specific drive you purchase . See the manual supplied with your optical drive for more information on its installation and use . You can connect an optical drive while the computer is on . For specific instructions on using your supplied Application , Driver , and System Recovery CDs , see Using the Recovery CDs for more information . 1 . Remove the PC Card slot protector from the PC Card slot . See To remove a PC Card for more information . 2 . Remove the PC Card from the bottom side of the optical drive . Removing PC Card 3 . Insert the PC Card into the PC Card slot with the SONY logo facing up . See Using PC Cards for details . Inserting PC Card A protective cover is attached to the lens of the optical drive at the factory . Before using the optical drive , remove the protective cover . Page 59
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To insert a disc 1 . Press the Eject button . The disc tray slides out . Optical Drive 2 . Place the disc in the tray with the label side facing up . 3 . Push the disc onto the hub until the disc clicks into place . Inserting Disc 4 . Close the tray by pushing it in gently . The Busy indicator on the drive flashes while your computer is reading data from the disc . Flashing Busy Indicator Page 60