VAIO® Computer
Quick Start
PCG-V505DC1/DH/DX Series
Setting Up ..................................................13
Getting Started ..........................................21
Turning On Your Computer......................................21
Registering Your Computer ......................................26
Locating Your VAIO Computer User Guide ............27
Setting Up A Dial-Up Connection ............................28
Turning Off Your Computer .....................................30
VAIO Recovery Wizard Utility...................33
Troubleshooting Your Computer.............35
Support Options.........................................................39
3
VAIO® Computer Quick Start
4
Notice to Users
information. Financial services may require prior
arrangements with participating financial institutions.
© 2003 Sony Electronics Inc. All rights 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
CONTAINED HEREIN OR THE USE THEREOF.
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 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 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.
The Wireless LAN
functionality, which is
incorporated into
selected models only,
has passed Wi-Fi
certification and
complies with the
interoperability
specifications
Updates and additions to software may require an
additional charge. Subscriptions to online service
providers may require a fee and credit card
established by WFA
(Wi-Fi Alliance).
Sony, DVgate, DVgate Plus, Handycam, i.LINK,
Mavica, MagicGate™ Memory Stick, Memory Stick,
Memory Stick PRO, VAIO, and the VAIO logo are
trademarks of Sony Corporation. Microsoft, Windows
Media, Windows, Windows NT, and the Windows
5
VAIO® Computer Quick Start
logo are registered trademarks of Microsoft
Corporation. Intel, SpeedStep, and Pentium are
trademarks or registered trademarks of Intel
Corporation. PS/2 is a registered trademark of IBM.
Acrobat Reader, Photoshop, Photoshop Elements, and
Premiere are trademarks of Adobe Systems
Incorporated. PowerPanel is a trademark of Phoenix
Technologies Ltd.
Safety Information
WARNING
❑
To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose
your computer to rain or moisture.
❑
To avoid electrical shock, do not open the
cabinet. Refer servicing to qualified personnel
only.
Reverse engineering or disassembly is prohibited.
i.LINK is a trademark of Sony used only to designate
that a product contains an IEEE 1394 connection. The
i.LINK connection may vary, depending on the
software applications, operating system, and
compatible i.LINK devices. All products with an
i.LINK connection may not communicate with each
other. Please 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. All other trademarks are
trademarks of their respective owners.
❑
❑
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.
❑
❑
❑
❑
❑
❑
Use caution when installing or modifying
telephone lines.
Avoid using the modem during an electrical
storm.
End User / Product Activation
Requirements
Do not use the modem or a telephone to report a
gas leak in the vicinity of the leak.
Certain software product(s) included with this
computer may include features such as copy protection
and content management technology. Use of the
software product(s) requires agreement to applicable
end user agreements and full compliance with
applicable product activation procedures. Product
activation procedures and privacy policies will be
detailed during initial launch of the software
product(s), or upon certain reinstallations of the
software product(s) or reconfiguration of the
computer, and may be completed by Internet or
telephone (toll charges may apply).
A socket outlet should be as close as possible to
the unit and easily accessible.
i.LINK, PC Card, and USB connectors are not
supplied with Limited Power Sources.
To prevent possible damage to your computer
during transportation, first attach any supplied
connector covers and slot protectors in their
appropriate locations, and secure the battery
pack in the battery bay.
Owner’s Record
The model number and serial number are located on
the bottom of your Sony VAIO computer. Refer to the
model and serial number when you call your Sony
Service Center.
Model Number: _____________________
Serial Number: ________________________
6
Notice to Users
.
❑
❑
Des connecteurs i.LINK, PC Card, et USB ne
sont pas fournis avec des Sources d’Énergie
Limitées.
To change the backup battery, please
contact your nearest Sony Service
Center.
Afin de prévenir des indemnités à votre
ordinateur pendant la transportation, attachez
d’abord tous les volets de connecteurs et
protecteurs d’emplacements comme il faut, et
insérez la batterie dans le logement de la
batterie.
Caution: The use of optical instruments
with this product will increase eye
hazard. As the laser beam used in this
product is harmful to the eyes, do not
attempt to disassemble the cabinet.
Refer servicing to qualified personnel
only.
(For CD-RW/DVD-ROM) Danger:
Visible and invisible laser radiation
when open. Avoid direct exposure to
beam.
Pour changer la pile de rechange,
veuillez contacter votre centre de
service Sony le plus près.
Avertissement: L'utilisation
Caution: To reduce the risk of fire, use
only No. 26 AWG or larger
d'instruments optiques avec ce produit
augmente les risques pour les yeux.
Puisque le faisceau laser utilisé dans
ce produit est dommageable pour les
yeux, ne tentez pas de désassembler
le boîtier. Adressez-vous à un agent de
service qualifié.
telecommunication line cord.
AVERTISSEMENT
❑
Pour prévenir tout risque d’incendie ou
d’électrocution, garder cet appareil à l’abri de la
pluie et de l’humidité.
(Pour le lecteurs Combo de
CD-RW/DVD-ROM) Danger: Radiation
laser visible et invisible si ouvert.
Évitez l’exposition directe au faisceau.
❑
Pour prévenir tout risque d’électrocution, ne pas
ouvrir le châssis de cet appareil et ne confier son
entretien qu’à une personne qualifiée.
Attention : Afin de réduire les risques
d'incendie, n'utilisez qu'un cordon de
communication N0. 26 AWG ou plus
gros.
❑
❑
Ne jamais effectuer l’installation de fil modem
ou téléphone durant un orage électrique.
If you have questions about this product, you can reach
the Sony Customer Information Service Center at 1-
888-4-SONY-PC; or write to the Sony Customer
Information Service Center at 12451 Gateway Blvd.,
Ft. Myers, FL 33913 or find Sony Customer Service
Ne jamais effectuer l’installation d’une prise
téléphonique dans un endroit mouillé à moins
que la prise soit conçue à cet effet.
❑
Ne jamais toucher un fil téléphonique à
découvert ou un terminal à moins que la ligne
téléphonique n’ait été débranche de l’interface
réseau.
❑
❑
❑
Soyez très prudent lorsque vous installez ou
modifiez les lignes téléphoniques.
Évitez d’utiliser le modem durant un orage
électrique.
N'utilisez pas le modem ni le téléphone pour
prévenir d'une fuite de gaz quand vous êtes près
de la fuite.
❑
L’appareil doit être le plus près possible d’une
prise murale pour en faciliter l’accès.
7
VAIO® Computer Quick Start
You are cautioned that any changes or modifications to
the computer not expressly approved in this manual
could void your authority to operate this equipment.
Regulatory Information
Declaration of Conformity
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.
Trade Name:
Model No.:
Sony
PCG-691L, PCG-692L
Sony Electronics Inc.
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.
Responsible Party:
Address:
680 Kinderkamack
Road
Oradell, NJ 07649
Telephone:
(For FCC-related
201-930-6972
FCC Part 68
This equipment complies with Part 68 of the FCC
rules and the requirements adopted by the ACTA. On
the bottom of this equipment is a label that contains,
among other information, a product identifier in the
format US:AAAEQ##TXXXX. If requested, this
information must be provided to the telephone
company.
matters only.)
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
This modem uses the USOC RJ11C telephone jack.
(2) this device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may cause
undesired operation.
The REN is used to determine the number 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. For products approved after July 23,
2001, the REN for this product is part of the product
identifier that has the format US: AAAEQ##TXXXX.
The digits represented by ## are the REN without a
decimal point (e.g., 03 is a REN of 0.3). For earlier
products, the REN is separately shown on the label.
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
interference by one or more of the following measures:
If this equipment causes harm to the telephone
network, the telephone company will notify you in
advance that temporary discontinuance of service may
be required. 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.
❑
❑
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the equipment
and the receiver.
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.
❑
❑
Connect the equipment to 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.
8
Notice to Users
If trouble is experienced with this equipment, you can
reach the Sony Customer Information Service Center
at 1-888-4-SONY-PC, or write to the Sony Customer
Information Service Center at 12451 Gateway Blvd.,
Ft. Myers, FL 33913; or find Sony Customer Service
equipment is causing harm to the telephone network,
the telephone company may request that you
disconnect the equipment until the problem is
resolved.
To prevent radio interference to the licensed service,
this device is intended to be operated indoors and
away from windows to provide maximum shielding.
Equipment (or its transmit antenna) that is installed
outdoors is subject to licensing.
The term “IC:” before the certification/registration
number only signifies that the Industry Canada
technical specifications were met.
(POUR LES MODÈLES AVEZ RESEAU DE
CONNEXIONS LOCAL SANS FIL) L’utilisation de
ce dispositif est autorisée seulement aux conditions
suivantes: (1) il ne doit pas produire de brouillage et
(2) l’utilisateur du dispositif doit être prêt à accepter
tout brouillage radioélectrique reçu, même si ce
brouillage est susceptible de compromettre le
fonctionnement du dispositif.
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 1-888-4-SONY-
PC (1-888-476-6972).
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 public or provincial
utility service commission, public service commission,
or corporation commission for information.
Pour empêcher que cet appareil cause du brouillage au
service faisant l’objet d’une licence, il doit être utilisé
à l’interieur et devrait être placé loin des fenêtres afin
de fournir un écran de blindage maximal. Si le matériel
(ou son antenne d’émission) est installé a l’exterieur, il
doit faire l’objet d’une licence.
If your home has specially wired alarm equipment
connected to the telephone line, ensure the installation
of this equipment does not disable your alarm
equipment. If you have questions about what will
disable alarm equipment, consult your telephone
company or a qualified installer.
L’expression “IC:” avant le numéro
d’homologation/enregistrement signifie seulement que
les spécifications techniques d’Industrie Canada ont
été respectées.
Use a surge arrestor to protect against electrical surges.
Telephone Consumer
Protection Act of 1991
(United States)
FCC Radio Frequency Exposure
(United States)
(FOR MODELS WITH WIRELESS LAN) This
equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure
limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. This
equipment should be installed and operated with
minimum distance of 8 inches (20 cm) between the
radiator and body (excluding extremities: hands,
wrists, and feet).
The Telephone Consumer Protection Act of 1991
makes it unlawful for any person to use a computer or
other electronic device, including fax machines, to
send any message unless such message clearly
contains, in a margin at the top or bottom of each
transmitted page or on the first page of the
transmission, the date and time it is sent and an
identification of the business, other entity, or
individual sending the message, and the telephone
number of the sending machine or such business, other
entity, or individual. (The telephone number provided
may not be a 900 number or any other number for
which charges exceed local or long-distance
transmission charges.)
This device and its antenna(s) must not be co-located
or operating with any other antenna or transmitter
except Grant condition. Users are not permitted to
modify this transmitter device. Any unauthorized
change made to this device could void your authority
to operate this device.
IC RSS-210 (Canada)
(FOR MODELS WITH WIRELESS LAN) Operation
is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this
device may not cause interference, and (2) this device
must accept any interference, including interference
that may cause undesired operation of the device.
In order to program this information into your
facsimile machine, see your fax software
documentation.
9
VAIO® Computer Quick Start
Telephone Consumer
Guidelines (Canada)
RECYCLAGE DES
ACCUMULATEURS AUX IONS
DE LITHIUM
Please refer to your telephone directory under ‘Privacy
Issues’ and/or ‘Terms of Service.’ For more detailed
information, please contact:
CRTC
Terrasses de la Chaudière, Tour centrale 1 promenade
du Portage, 5 étage Hull PQ K1A 0N2.
RECYCLAGE DES
ACCUMULATEURS
AUX IONS DE
LITHIUM
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian
ICES-003.
Les accumulateurs aux
ions de lithium sont
recyclables.
Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à
la norme NMB-003 du Canada.
RECYCLING LITHIUM ION
BATTERIES
Vous pouvez contribuer à préserver
l’environnement en rapportant les piles usées dans
un point de collection et recyclage le plus proche.
Pour plus d’informations sur le recyclage des
accumulateurs, téléphonez le numéro gratuit 1-
800-822-8837 (Etats-Units et Canada uniquement),
RECYCLING
LITHIUM-ION
BATTERIES
Avertissment: Ne pas utiliser des accumulateurs
aux ions de lithium qui sont endommagées ou qui
fuient.
Lithium-Ion batteries
are recyclable.
You can help preserve our environment by
returning your used rechargeable batteries to the
collection and recycling location nearest you.
For more information regarding recycling of
rechargeable batteries, call toll free 1-800-822-
Caution: Do not handle damaged or leaking
Lithium-Ion batteries.
10
Notice to Users
Le Nombre Équivalent de Sonneries (REN) de cet
équipement terminal est 0,2. Le REN attribué à chaque
équipement terminal indique le nombre maximum de
terminaux que l’on peut connecter à une interface
téléphonique. Il est possible de raccorder à une
interface plusieurs combinaisons d’appareils, mais la
somme des Nombres Équivalents de Sonneries de tous
ces appareils ne doit pas dépasser cinq.
Do not handle damaged or leaking
lithium ion batteries.
Danger of explosion if battery is
incorrectly replaced. Replace only with
the same or equivalent type
recommended by the manufacturer.
Discard used batteries according to the
manufacturer’s instructions.
The battery pack used in this device
may present a fire or chemical burn
hazard if mistreated. Do not
disassemble, heat above 140°F (60°C)
or incinerate. Dispose of used battery
promptly. Keep away from children.
Ne pas utiliser des batteries au lithium
ionisé qui sont endommagées ou qui
fuient.
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.
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 60°C. Évacuer promptement la
batterie usée. Garder hors de portée
des enfants.
INDUSTRY CANADA NOTICE
NOTICE: This equipment meets the applicable
Industry Canada Terminal Equipment Technical
Specifications.
The Ringer Equivalence Number (REN) for this
terminal equipment is 0.2. The REN assigned to each
terminal equipment 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 five.
AVIS DE L’INDUSTRIE CANADA
REMARQUE: Cet équipement est conforme aux
Spécifications Techniques des Équipements
Terminaux d’Industrie Canada en vigueur.
11
VAIO® Computer Quick Start
12
VAIO® Computer Quick Start
VAIO Computer Documents
❑
❑
VAIO® Computer User Guide — A searchable on-screen help file that
contains detailed information on how to use your new computer. See
“Locating Your VAIO Computer User Guide” on page 27 for more
information.
VAIO® Computer Quick Start (this document) — Contains information
on unpacking and setting up your computer for immediate use.
Software CDs
Depending on the model you purchased, additional program CDs may be
included with your computer.
About System Recovery operations
Only computers equipped with the Microsoft® Windows® 2000 Professional
operating system come with Recovery CDs/DVDs. Computers with the
Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system feature a Hard Disk Drive recovery
process that eliminates the need for Recovery CDs/DVDs.
14
Locating Controls and Ports
Locating Controls and Ports
Front
4
1
2
3
4
5
6
Computer screen (LCD)
Speakers
9
Power indicator
10
11
12
13
14
Battery indicator
Keyboard
Hard disk drive indicator
*
Touch pad
Wireless LAN indicator
Left and right buttons
Num lock indicator
Caps lock indicator
Memory Stick® media
indicator
7
8
Power switch
15
Scroll lock indicator
*
Wireless LAN switch
* Wireless LAN capabilities are available on selected models only.
15
VAIO® Computer Quick Start
Back
1
Battery port
Left
1
2
3
4
5
DC IN port
6
7
8
9
i.LINK® (IEEE 1394) S400 port
Microphone jack
Air vent
Monitor (VGA) port
PC Card eject button
USB 2.0 port
Headphone jack
PC Card slot
16
Locating Controls and Ports
Right
1
2
3
4
5
Memory Stick® media indicator 6
USB 2.0 port
Memory Stick® media slot
CD-RW/DVD drive
7
8
Air vent
Modem jack
CD-RW/DVD drive eject button 9
Network (Ethernet) port
Manual eject hole
Only connect 10BASE-T or 100BASE-TX cables to the
Network (Ethernet)
port. Do not connect any other type of network cable or any telephone line to
this port. 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 a network, refer to your on-screen VAIO®
Computer User Guide or contact your network administrator. See “Locating
Your VAIO Computer User Guide” for more information.
17
VAIO® Computer Quick Start
Removing the Protective Tabs
✍ Gently pull the protective tabs away from the computer to find the Ethernet port and
modem jack.
18
Locating Controls and Ports
Bottom
1
2
Port replicator connector
4
5
Reset button
Air vent
Battery UNLOCK/LOCK
latch
3
Battery RELEASE latch
19
VAIO® Computer Quick Start
20
Getting Started
This section helps you get your computer running and registered, so you
can take advantage of Sony’s many support options. You’ll also learn how
to locate your on-screen VAIO® Computer User Guide, which contains
step-by-step instructions for operating your computer.
Turning On Your Computer
To use your computer immediately, use the supplied AC adapter as a power
source. Your supplied battery is not charged when you unpack it, however, you
can begin charging it when you use your AC adapter. See “Powering Your
Computer” in your on-screen VAIO® Computer User Guide for more
information about using batteries. See also “Locating Your VAIO Computer User
Guide” on page 27.
To charge the battery
1
Switch the UNLOCK/LOCK latch on the bottom of the computer to the
UNLOCK position.
UNLOCK/LOCK Latch
21
VAIO® Computer Quick Start
2
Align the grooves on the battery with the tabs on the back of the computer,
and slide the battery toward the computer until it clicks into place.
Inserting the Battery
3
4
Slide the UNLOCK/LOCK latch into the LOCK position to secure the
battery on the computer.
Connect the AC adapter to the computer. See “To connect the AC adapter.”
Once you connect the AC adapter to the computer, the battery begins to charge
whether the computer is on or off. The battery indicator shows the battery
status. The indicator blinks as the battery charges. See “Powering Your
Computer” in your on-screen VAIO® Computer User Guide for more
information.
22
Turning On Your Computer
To connect the AC adapter
Plug the AC adapter cable into the DC IN port.
1
Connecting the AC Adapter to the Computer
2
Plug the power cord into the AC adapter and an AC outlet.
.
✍ Use only the supplied AC adapter with your computer.
To open and turn on the computer
1
Slide the release latch to the right and lift the cover while holding the bottom
of the computer firmly.
Opening the Computer
23
VAIO® Computer Quick Start
2
Slide the power switch to the right until the green power indicator lights up.
Turning on the Computer
✍ If you hold the power switch to the right, the computer turns off.
3
If necessary, adjust the brightness controls for the LCD display as follows:
❑
To increase brightness, press the Fn+F5 keys, and then press the Up
Arrow key or Right Arrow key
To decrease brightness, press the Fn+F5 keys, and then press the Down
Arrow key or Left Arrow key
.
❑
.
Using the Touch Pad
The computer contains a pointing device called a touch pad. You can point to,
select, drag, and scroll objects on the screen using the built-in touch pad.
24
Using the Touch Pad
Describing the touch pad
Locating the Touch Pad
Touch Pad Action Description
Sliding one finger Equivalent to using a mouse to place the pointer on an item.
Tapping once
Tapping twice
Equivalent to pressing the left button once.
Equivalent to pressing the left button twice.
Sliding one finger Equivalent to using the mouse to drag an item.
while pressing the
left button
Moving your finger Equivalent to scrolling vertically. (The scroll function is
along the right edge available only with programs that support a touch pad scroll
of the touch pad
feature.)
Moving your finger Equivalent to scrolling horizontally. (The scroll function is
along the bottom to available only with programs that support a touch pad scroll
scroll horizontally feature.)
25
VAIO® Computer Quick Start
Registering Your Computer
✍ You are prompted to register your computer the first time you turn on the unit. Follow
the on-screen instructions to complete the registration process. If you are not able to
register your computer during the first session, you are provided with additional
registration opportunities later.
Take advantage of Sony’s commitment to quality customer support and receive
these benefits by registering your computer:
❑
❑
❑
Sony Customer Support — Talk to a support representative to troubleshoot
problems you may have with your computer.
Limited Warranty Extension — Protect your investment. See the Warranty
Card for more details.
Product Information Notification — By giving Sony your contact
information, you will enable Sony to reach you regarding performance
updates and upgrades.
26
Locating Your VAIO Computer User Guide
Locating Your VAIO Computer User Guide
The on-screen VAIO® Computer User Guide is a searchable help file that
contains detailed information on how to use your new computer.
To open the user guide
1
Click Start on the Windows® taskbar, and then click Help and Support.
The Help and Support Center window appears, displaying information
about your VAIO® computer and Microsoft® Windows® operating system.
Locating the VAIO User Guide (Windows XP)
2
Click VAIO User Guide in the Pick a Help topic column. A second Help
and Support Center window appears, which offers information about your
computer.
27
VAIO® Computer Quick Start
VAIO® User Guide
1
2
User guide table of contents
Link to Electronic Flyer
List of computer help topics
List of updates and supplemental
information
3
Link to Sony Computing
Support
List of your computer’s hardware
specifications and preinstalled software
information.
Setting Up A Dial-Up Connection
This section describes the basic steps for setting up your dial-up connection. The
Connection Wizard guides you through the process of choosing an Internet
Service Provider (ISP) or setting up an existing account, and connecting to the
Internet.
28
Setting Up A Dial-Up Connection
To connect a telephone cable
1
2
Locate the Modem jack on your computer.
Plug one end of the telephone cable into the Modem jack. Make sure it clicks
into place.
3
Plug the other end into the wall jack.
Connecting a Telephone Cable
✍ Your computer does not work with party lines, cannot be connected to a coin-operated
telephone, and may not work with multiple telephone 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 telephone cable coming through a splitter, the modem or connected
device may not work properly.
29
VAIO® Computer Quick Start
To set up a dial-up connection
1
Click Start, point to All Programs, Accessories, Communications, and
then click New Connection Wizard. The New Connection Wizard
appears.
New Connection Wizard
2
3
4
5
Click Next.
If it is not already selected, click Connect to the Internet.
Click Next.
Follow the on-screen instructions.
Turning Off Your Computer
Using the power switch to turn off your computer may result in loss of data.
Follow the steps below to properly turn off your computer and avoid losing data.
To turn off your computer
1
2
3
Close all operations.
Click Start on the Windows® taskbar.
Click Turn Off Computer at the bottom of the Start menu to display the
Turn off computer window, and select Turn Off.
30
Turning Off Your Computer
✍ Respond to any prompts warning you to save documents.
4
Wait for your computer to turn off automatically. The computer is off when
the power indicator turns off.
✍ During a period of inactivity, you can conserve battery life by using power saving
modes. See the VAIO® Computer User Guide for more information.
✍ If you are unable to turn off the computer, slide and hold the power switch until the
computer turns off. This operation may result in data loss.
31
VAIO® Computer Quick Start
32
VAIO Recovery Wizard Utility
(Windows® XP only) System and Application Recovery CDs are not
supplied with your VAIO® computer. Your VAIO computer is equipped
with the VAIO Recovery Wizard, a fast and easy-to-use system recovery
utility. This system and application recovery utility enables you to recover
preinstalled software programs, the operating system, and to create a
VAIO Recovery Media Kit.
About the VAIO Recovery Wizard utility
❑
❑
❑
❑
Use the several recovery options to restore your preinstalled software
programs and specific partitions on your hard disk drive.
Follow the instructions that guide you through several recovery options
choosing the default selections or customizing your computer's recovery.
Discover the advantages of recovering your computer without using CDs or
other external media.
Create your own Recovery Media Kit, using your purchased CD or DVD
media.
Creating a Recovery Media Kit
*
You can create your Recovery Media Kit using CD or DVD media that can be
used if your system does not start. The Recovery Media Kit enables you to
reclaim the space reserved for the recovery partition (approximately 5 GB).
For more information about creating the Recovery Media Kit, see the VAIO
Recovery Options online guide:
1
Click Start in the Windows® taskbar, and then click Help and
Support.
2
From the VAIO Help and Support Center, click VAIO Recovery
Options.
* The number of CDs and/or DVDs required to create a Recovery Media Kit may vary,
depending on the computer model purchased.
33
VAIO® Computer Quick Start
Visit the Sony Computing Support Web site for the latest information about using
the VAIO Recovery Wizard or Recovery Media Kit.
To purchase a VAIO Recovery Media kit
1
2
3
Go to the Sony Direct Accessories and Parts Center Web site at
Enter your computer model number (for example, PCV-XXXX), and click
List Parts and accessories.
Follow the online instructions to order the Recovery Media Kit.
✍ If you are not able to access the Sony Direct Accessories and Parts Center Web site,
contact a customer service representative at 1-800-488-7669.
Using the VAIO Recovery Wizard Help
For more information about recovery options or instructions on using the VAIO
Recovery Wizard utility program, see the VAIO Recovery Wizard Help.
Access the Help by following these steps:
1
2
3
4
Turn on your computer.
Click Start in the Microsoft® Windows® taskbar and click All Programs.
Click VAIO Recovery Wizard. The VAIO Recovery Wizard utility appears.
Click Help. The VAIO Recovery Wizard Help appears in a separate
*
window .
* If you do not perform a recovery operation, your system prompts you to restart your
computer when closing the VAIO Recovery Wizard utility.
34
Troubleshooting Your Computer
This section describes how to solve some basic problems you may
encounter when using your computer. For more troubleshooting topics
refer to the VAIO® Computer User Guide. Many problems have simple
solutions, so refer to these sources before you contact Sony Computing
Support (http://www.sony.com/pcsupport).
What do I do if my computer won’t start?
❑
Make sure the computer is securely plugged into a power source and turned
on. Make sure the power indicator shows the power is on.
❑
❑
❑
Make sure the battery is inserted properly and charged.
Make sure the floppy disk drive (if applicable) is empty.
If the computer is plugged into a power strip or uninterruptible power supply
(UPS), make sure the power strip or UPS is turned on and working.
❑
If you are using an external display, make sure it is plugged into a power
source and turned on. Make sure the brightness and contrast controls are
adjusted correctly. See the guide that came with your display for details.
❑
❑
❑
Disconnect the AC adapter and remove the battery. Wait one minute.
Condensation may cause the computer to malfunction. If this occurs, do not
use the computer for at least one hour.
If the computer still does not turn on, follow these steps:
1
2
Unplug the power cord and remove the battery.
Use a thin, straight object (such as a paper clip) to press the reset button
on the bottom of the computer. For location information, see “Locating
Controls and Ports.”
3
4
Reinsert the power cord and the battery.
Turn on the computer.
35
VAIO® Computer Quick Start
What do I do if a BIOS error appears when my computer starts?
If the message “Press <F1> to resume, <F2> to setup” appears at the bottom of
the screen, follow these steps:
1
2
3
Press the F2 key. The BIOS Setup menu appears.
Set the date (month/day/year). Press Enter.
Press the Down Arrow key
to select System Time, and then set the time
(hour: minute: second). Press Enter.
4
Press the Right Arrow key
to select the Exit tab, and then press the
Down Arrow key
to select Get Default Values. The message Load
default values for all SETUP items appears.
5
6
7
Press Enter. The Setup Confirmation window appears.
Select Yes, and press Enter.
Select Exit (Save Changes), and press Enter. The Setup Confirmation
window appears again.
8
Select Yes, and press Enter. The computer restarts.
✍ If this occurs on a regular basis, contact Sony Computing Support
(http://www.sony.com/pcsupport).
What do I do if the message “Operating system not found” appears when my
computer starts, and why won’t Windows start?
❑
Make sure the computer does not have a “non-bootable” floppy disk in the
floppy disk drive (if applicable).
❑
If a non-bootable floppy disk is in the drive:
1
2
Remove the floppy disk.
Restart the computer and confirm that the Microsoft® Windows®
operating system starts properly.
❑
If Windows still does not start, follow these steps to initialize the BIOS:
1
2
3
If there is a disk in the floppy disk drive, then remove it.
Turn off the computer.
Remove any peripheral devices connected to the computer.
36
Troubleshooting Your Computer
4
5
Restart the computer.
Press the F2 key when the Sony VAO® logo appears. The BIOS Setup
window appears.
6
7
Press the Right Arrow key
to select the Exit menu.
Press the Down Arrow key
to select Get Default Values. The
message Load default values for all SETUP items appears.
Press Enter. The Setup Confirmation window appears.
Select Yes, and press Enter.
8
9
10 Select Exit (Save Changes), and press Enter. The Setup Confirmation
window appears again.
11 Select Yes, and press Enter. The computer restarts.
What do I do if my computer stops responding?
It is best to turn off your computer using the Turn Off Computer or Shut Down
option on the Microsoft® Windows® Start menu, located on the taskbar. Using
other methods, including those listed below, may result in loss of unsaved data.
❑
Click Start on the Windows® taskbar, select Turn Off Computer, and then
click Turn Off.
❑
If your computer does not turn off, press the Ctrl+Alt+Delete keys
simultaneously. When the Windows Task Manager dialog box appears,
click Turn Off from the Shut Down menu.
❑
❑
If your computer still does not turn off, press and hold the power button or
slide and hold the power switch until the computer turns off.
If your computer stops responding while playing a CD or DVD, press the
Ctrl+Alt+Delete keys simultaneously. You can turn off the computer from
the Windows Task Manager.
✍ Pressing the Ctrl+Alt+Delete keys simultaneously or turning off the computer with the
power button or switch may cause loss of data.
❑
Remove the AC adapter and battery.
37
VAIO® Computer Quick Start
Why won’t my computer enter Standby or Hibernate mode?
Your computer may become unstable if the operating mode is changed before the
computer completely enters Standby or Hibernate.
To restore the computer to normal operating stability:
1
2
Close all open programs.
Restart the computer. Follow these steps:
1
2
3
Press the Windows key
Press U.
.
Press R to select restart.
3
If the computer does not restart, follow these steps:
1
Press the Ctrl+Alt+Delete keys simultaneously. The Windows Task
Manager window appears.
2
Press and release Alt to highlight the menu bar, and press the Right
Arrow
key to select Shut Down.
3
4
Press Enter.
Press R to select restart.
4
If this procedure does not work, press and hold the power button or slide and
hold the power switch until the computer turns off.
38
Support Options
Support Options
If you have questions about your computer or the preinstalled programs, refer to
the following sources for answers in the sequence listed below.
1
VAIO® Computer User Guide
The on-screen VAIO® Computer User Guide provides information on
how to maximize your computer capabilities and solve common
problems. To locate the User Guide, see “Locating Your VAIO Computer
User Guide” on page 27.
2
Program Guides and Help Files
The preinstalled programs on your computer may come with individual
help guides. These guides are stored on the hard disk as on-screen Help
files. You can find the Help files from the Help menu under the specific
program.
3
4
Operating System Online Support
Your computer comes preinstalled with a Microsoft® Windows®
operating system. For operating system support, you can visit Microsoft®
Sony Computing Support
This service provides instant access to information on commonly
encountered problems. Type a description of the problem and the
Knowledge Database searches for the corresponding solutions online.
You can visit Sony Computing Support at:
39
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