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Sony PCG-GRT915M Hardware Manual

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P C G - G R T s e r i e s

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Summary of Contents for Sony PCG-GRT915M

  • Page 1 Hardware Guide P C G - G R T s e r i e s...

  • Page 2: Read This First

    In the manual, the ™ or ® marks are not specified. Sony Corporation 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 licence agreement.
  • Page 3 U.S. registered mark. NERGY Owner's record The serial number and model number are located on the bottom of your Sony computer. Record the numbers and refer to them if you call VAIO-Link. See also the printed Specifications document.

  • Page 4: Safety Information

    If reporting a gas leak, do not use the modem or a telephone in the vicinity of the leak. Avoid using the modem during a severe electrical storm. To change the backup battery, please contact your nearest Sony Service Centre. Before you connect peripherals, turn off the computer and all peripherals.
  • Page 5 Read this first Connectivity Never install modem or telephone wiring during a severe lightning storm. Never install telephone jacks in wet locations unless the jack is specifically designed for wet locations. Take care when installing or modifying telephone lines. Use your computer only with the supplied AC adapter. To disconnect your computer completely from mains voltage, unplug the AC adapter.

  • Page 6: Regulatory Information

    Read this first Regulatory information Sony hereby declares that this product is in compliance with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of European Directive 1999/5/EC (radio equipment and telecommunications terminal equipment Directive). Declaration of Conformity The European Union is targeting the free movement of goods for the internal market and to prevent technical barriers to trade. This effort has resulted in several EU Directives asking that manufacturers make their products comply with essential standards.
  • Page 7 Read this first In case your model is equipped with Wireless LAN, please read the Wireless LAN Regulations leaflet before activating the Wireless LAN functionality. Depending on the country, usage of the Wireless LAN functionality may be restricted. For country-specific details, please refer to the Wireless LAN Regulations leaflet.
  • Page 8 Read this first Disposing of lithium ion batteries Do not handle damaged or leaking lithium ion batteries. Dispose of promptly and properly at end-of-life. Danger of explosion if the battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer.
  • Page 9 Exceptional performance. Portability - The rechargeable battery pack provides hours of use without AC power. Sony audio and video quality - A high-resolution LCD screen enables you to take advantage of today’s advanced multimedia applications, games, and entertainment software. Multimedia features – Enjoy audio and video CDs/DVDs.

  • Page 10: Documentation Pack

    VAIO Recovery and Documentation Disc delivered with your computer, and VAIO-Link information. Your Sony Guarantee conditions; A Safety Regulations leaflet; A Wireless Lan Regulations leaflet;...
  • Page 11 Welcome Non-printed documentation You can read the online Hardware and Software Guides on your computer by double-clicking the My Documentation icon on your desktop. Further sources Consult the Online Help files of the software you are using for detailed information on features and troubleshooting.

  • Page 12: Ergonomic Considerations

    Welcome Ergonomic considerations You will be using your computer as a portable device in a variety of environments. Whenever possible, you should attempt to take account of the following ergonomic considerations to both stationary and portable environments: Position of your computer – Place the computer directly in front of you (1). Keep your forearms horizontal (2), with your wrists in a neutral, comfortable position (3) while using the keyboard, touchpad, or external mouse.
  • Page 13 Welcome Lighting – Choose a location where windows and lights do not create glare and reflection on the display. Use indirect lighting to avoid bright spots on the display. You can also purchase accessories for your display that help reduce glare. Proper lighting adds to your comfort and work effectiveness. Positioning an external display –...

  • Page 14: Table Of Contents

    Specifications sheet, you can start using your computer safely and confidently. Read on to get the most out of using your VAIO computer. Connecting a power source Setting up your computer with Sony Notebook Setup Shutting down your computer safely Using the keyboard...

  • Page 15: Connecting A Power Source

    Using your VAIO computer Connecting a power source You can use either an AC adapter or a rechargeable battery pack as a power source. Using the AC adapter To use the AC adapter, proceed as follows: Plug the cable attached to the AC adapter (1) into the DC In connector (2) on the computer. Plug one end of the power cord (3) into the AC adapter.
  • Page 16 Using your VAIO computer Inserting the battery pack To insert the battery pack, proceed as follows: Open the cover of the battery bay. Insert the battery pack with the label facing up into the battery bay of the computer. Close the cover of the battery bay until it clicks. When the computer is directly connected to AC power and has a battery pack inserted in the battery bay, it uses power from the AC outlet.

  • Page 17: Removing The Battery Pack

    Using your VAIO computer When the battery is running out of power, both the battery and power indicators blink. 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.
  • Page 18 Using your VAIO computer Using the second battery pack You can purchase a second rechargeable battery pack. With two battery packs, you can extend the time you use your computer with battery power. When using two battery packs, the battery pack you insert first, charges first.

  • Page 19: Setting Up Your Computer With Sony Notebook Setup

    Using your VAIO computer Setting up your computer with Sony Notebook Setup The Sony Notebook Setup utility allows you to consult system information, specify preferences for system behaviour, and set up password protection for your VAIO computer. To use Sony Notebook Setup, proceed as follows: Click the Start button on the Windows taskbar.
  • Page 20 For more information about each option, click Help on the Sony Notebook Setup screen to display the help file. If you open Sony Notebook Setup as a limited user, then only the About This Computer tab will be visible. Description Selects the drive and device order you wish to use for loading the operating system.

  • Page 21: Shutting Down Your Computer Safely

    Using your VAIO computer Shutting down your computer safely It is important that you shut down your computer properly so you do not lose unsaved data. To shut down your computer, proceed as follows: Turn off any peripherals connected to your computer. Click the Start button.

  • Page 22: Using The Keyboard

    Using your VAIO computer Using the keyboard Your keyboard is very similar to a desktop computer’s, but has additional keys that perform specific notebook-related tasks. For more information on the standard keys, please go to the Windows Help and Support Center. The VAIO-Link website (www.vaio-link.com) also contains glossary information to help you use the keyboard.
  • Page 23 Using your VAIO computer Combinations/ Feature <Fn> + (F12): Hibernate <Fn> + <E> * This function can only be used by the first user to log on. It will not work if you have switched to another user account. If another user wants to display on an external monitor or TV, use the monitor properties to switch to an external monitor or TV.
  • Page 24 Using your VAIO computer Troubleshooting sound My speakers are not producing sound The built-in speakers may be turned off. Press <Fn>+<F3> to turn on the speakers. The speaker volume may be turned to the minimum. Press <Fn>+<F4> and then volume. You can also use the Volume up and Volume down keys below the touchpad of your computer.
  • Page 25 Using your VAIO computer Indicators Indicator Power Battery Wireless LAN MagicGate Memory Stick Light Hard disk Num Lock Caps Lock Scroll Lock Functions Power on: lights green. Standby mode: flashes umber. Indicates the status of the battery. Turns on when the Wireless LAN is activated. Turns off when the Wireless LAN is not activated.

  • Page 26: Using The Touchpad

    Using your VAIO computer Using the touchpad The keyboard contains a cursor-pointing device, your touchpad (1). You can point to, select, drag, and scroll objects on the screen using the built-in touchpad. Action Description Point Slide one finger on the touchpad to place the pointer (2) on an item or object.

  • Page 27: Using The Disc Drive

    Using your VAIO computer Using the disc drive Your computer is equipped with a disc drive. See the Specifications sheet for details on your model. To insert a disc, proceed as follows: Turn on the computer. Press the eject button (1) to open the drive. The tray slides out.
  • Page 28 Using your VAIO computer Never touch the surface of the disc. Fingerprints and dust on the surface of a disc may cause writing errors. Do not put your VAIO computer into a power saving mode while using the pre-installed software and while using the CD burning software.
  • Page 29 Using your VAIO computer Troubleshooting optical disc drive I cannot switch from LCD display to TV and vice versa If a DVD disc is inserted in the optical drive, remove the disc. My disc drive tray does not open Make sure the computer is turned on and press the eject button on the drive. Click Start, and select My Computer.
  • Page 30 Using your VAIO computer I cannot play a DVD If a region code warning appears when you are using the DVD player, it could be that the DVD you are trying to play is incompatible with the DVD drive on your computer. The region code is listed on the packaging of the disc.
  • Page 31 Using your VAIO computer You cannot play a DVD with Windows Media Player version 8 or 9. You cannot play a DVD with Real One Player. This is because your computer uses the "video overlay" when two screens are in use. The software applications above do not support this feature, which is why the problems occur.

  • Page 32: Using The Weight Saver

    Using your VAIO computer Using the weight saver The weight saver protects the multi-purpose bay when it is empty, and secures the second battery or the optical drive when they are installed in the multi-purpose bay. To attach the weight saver, proceed as follows: If another device is in the multi-purpose bay, remove the device.

  • Page 33: Using Pc Cards

    Using your VAIO computer Using PC Cards Your computer includes one or two PC Card slots (depending on your model). PC Cards allow you to connect portable external devices. Please see your printed Specifications sheet to see if your computer has one or two PC Card slots.

  • Page 34: Removing A Pc Card

    If your computer has two PC Card slots, use the lower slot for PC Type III cards. Some PC Cards may require you to disable idle devices when using the PC Card. You can use Sony computer Setup to disable devices.
  • Page 35 Some PC Cards or their functions may not be compatible with this computer. Troubleshooting PC Card My PC Card is not working Make sure the PC Card is compatible with your version of Windows. Use the Sony Notebook Setup utility to disable devices you are not currently using.

  • Page 36: Using The Memory Stick

    Please see your printed Specifications sheet to see which Memory Stick types are compatible with your VAIO and if there are any limitations. You can purchase Memory Sticks from the Sony Style website (www.sonystyle-europe.com), or from your local Sony dealer.

  • Page 37: Inserting A Memory Stick

    Using your VAIO computer Write-protecting a Memory Stick Memory Sticks are designed with an erasure prevention switch to protect valuable data from accidental erasure or overwriting. Move the tab to the right or left* to set or release write-protection. When the erasure prevention switch is off, data can be saved on the Memory Stick.

  • Page 38: Removing A Memory Stick

    Using your VAIO computer Carefully slide the Memory Stick into the slot until it clicks in place. The Memory Stick is automatically detected by your system and appears in your My Computer window as a local drive, under the appropriate letter (depending on the configuration of your computer). Hold the Memory Stick with the arrow pointing in the correct direction when you insert it into the slot.

  • Page 39: Using The Modem

    Using your VAIO computer Using the modem Your computer is equipped with an internal modem. You need to connect to a phone line to take advantage of online services and the Internet, as well as to register your computer and software online, and to contact VAIO-Link. To connect a phone line, proceed as follows: Plug one end of the phone cable (1) into the phone line jack Plug the other end into the wall jack (2).
  • Page 40 Using your VAIO computer Troubleshooting the modem My modem does not work or cannot establish a connection Check that the phone line is plugged into your computer. Make sure that the modem is the only device connected to your phone line. Check that the phone line is working.
  • Page 41 Using your VAIO computer My modem connection is slow 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.

  • Page 42: Using Wireless Lan (Wlan)

    The Sony WLAN supports all normal Ethernet activities, but with the added benefits of mobility and roaming. You can still access information, internet/intranet and network resources, even in the middle of a meeting, or as you move from one place to another.
  • Page 43 Using your VAIO computer Communicating without Access Point (ad-hoc) An ad-hoc network is a network 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.
  • Page 44 Using your VAIO computer Enter a Network name (SSID)*. You can choose a 6-digit name. Select Open from the Network Authentication drop-down box. Select WEP from the Data Encryption drop-down box. Deselect the The key is provided for me automatically option button. Some information becomes visible.
  • Page 45 Using your VAIO computer ** ASCII: The basis of character sets used in almost all present-day computers. ASCII is a code for representing English characters as numbers, with each letter assigned a number from 0 to 127. Hexadecimal: A number representation using the digits 0-9, with their usual meaning, plus the letters A-F (or a-f) to represent hexadecimal digits with values of (decimal) 10 to 15.
  • Page 46 Type the Network Key. If you are using the Sony Access Point PCWA-A320, by default, you don’t need to enter any encryption key (WEP/WPA). To be able to communicate, you must select the box Allow me to connect to the selected wireless network, even though it is not secure.
  • Page 47 Using your VAIO computer Click Connect. After 30 seconds, the connection is established. For more information about setting up an access point, see the documentation supplied with your Access Point. The WPA key needs to contain at least 8 characters. Wireless LAN channel selection In a 802.11b configuration, channel 1 to 13 can be used.
  • Page 48 Using your VAIO computer Troubleshooting Wireless LAN I cannot use the Wireless LAN function Check if the Wireless switch is turned on. The Wireless LAN Access Point and your computer cannot communicate Check if the Wireless LAN switch is turned on. Check if the power of the Access Point is turned on.
  • Page 49 Using your VAIO computer If a Wireless LAN device using the IEEE 802.11g standard communicates with a device using the IEEE 802.11b standard, then it is normal that the speed reduces. Devices using the IEEE 802.11g standard are 5 times faster then the ones using the IEEE 802.11b standard. I cannot access the Internet Check the settings of the Access Point.

  • Page 50: Using Power Saving Modes

    Using your VAIO computer 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 two distinct power saving modes: Standby and Hibernate.

  • Page 51: Using Hibernate Mode

    Using your VAIO computer If you press the power button for more than four seconds, the computer will switch off automatically. When the computer is in Standby mode, you cannot insert a disc. The computer comes out of Standby mode quicker than out of Hibernate mode. Standby uses more power than Hibernate.
  • Page 52 Using your VAIO computer If you press the power button for more than four seconds, the computer will switch off automatically. When the computer is in Hibernate mode, you cannot insert a disc. Hibernate mode requires more time than Standby mode to be activated. It takes more time to return to normal mode from Hibernate mode than from Standby mode.
  • Page 53 Using your VAIO computer Troubleshooting power management The power management setting is not responding Your computer’s operating system may become unstable if a lower power state, such as Hibernate is initiated, and then changed before the computer completely enters the lower power state. To restore the computer to its normal operating stability, proceed as follows: Close all open applications.

  • Page 54: Managing Power With Powerpanel

    Using your VAIO computer Managing power with PowerPanel The PowerPanel utility controls the power management of your computer and provides key information about system activity and battery life. The automatic power management selects the most advantageous profiles, or lets you customise the profiles you choose, according to your own needs, with the goal of extended battery life.
  • Page 55 Using your VAIO computer Activating PowerPanel When you start the computer, the PowerPanel icon appears in the system tray by default. To see the current power profile, simply point to the icon. The current power profile will be displayed in a tooltip.
  • Page 56 Using your VAIO computer Activating power management profiles PowerPanel provides several predefined power management profiles. Each profile consists of a group of power management settings that are designed to meet specific power management goals, ranging from maximum power management to no power management. Running on AC Icon Description...
  • Page 57 Using your VAIO computer Icon Description Maximum Performance – Provides the best system performance while still conserving power. Word Processing – Optimises power management with longer timeouts on the hard disk and display screen. You can also establish settings for LCD (Video) Standby, Hard Disk Standby, and Standby to optimise power management for your system.
  • Page 58 Using your VAIO computer Selecting automatic profiles when running on batteries A power profile is a set of timer values for a variety of system devices. PowerPanel automatically selects the profile associated with the application you are using and changes profiles as you switch between applications.

  • Page 59: Displaying Detailed Battery Information

    Using your VAIO computer Displaying detailed battery information You can display detailed information of your computer's battery. There are 3 ways in which you can display battery information: Right-click the PowerPanel icon in the taskbar and select Battery Information from the menu. Double-click the PowerPanel icon in the taskbar and select the Battery tab.
  • Page 60 Using your VAIO computer Editing a power profile To edit the power management settings of a power profile, proceed as follows: Right-click the PowerPanel icon in the taskbar and select Edit/Create Profiles from the menu. The Profile Editor window appears. Click the profile you want to edit on the left of the screen.

  • Page 61: Connecting Peripheral Devices

    To identify and locate the ports on your computer, please see the printed Specifications sheet. Sony computer supplies, accessories and peripherals can be purchased from your local retailer or from the Sony website: For more information about connection compatibility, go to the VAIO-Link website:...

  • Page 62: Connecting A Port Replicator

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a port replicator Your computer supports the use of an optional port replicator. Attaching a port replicator enables you to connect additional peripherals to your computer, such as a printer or an external display. USB port Monitor/VGA port Audio in connector (R - L) DC In port...

  • Page 63: Attaching Your Computer 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 the attached port replicator may cause a temporary loss of power. Use the AC adapter that comes with your computer or the optional Sony adapter.

  • Page 64: Disconnecting Your Computer From The Port Replicator

    Connecting peripheral devices Disconnecting your computer from the port replicator To disconnect your computer from the port replicator, proceed as follows: Stop the connected peripherals. Close the cover and pull the levers on each side of the port replicator to disconnect the computer from the port replicator.

  • Page 65: Connecting An External Display

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting an external display You can connect an external display to your computer. For example, you can use your computer with a computer display, a projector. Turn off your computer and the peripherals, unplug the AC adapter and the power cord before connecting the external display. Connect the power cord after connecting all other cables.
  • Page 66 Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a computer display You can connect a computer display (monitor) either directly to your computer or via the (optional) port replicator. To connect a computer display, proceed as follows: Plug the display cable (1) (not supplied) into the monitor/VGA connector (2) If necessary, plug one end of the display’s power cord (3) into the display, and the other end into an AC outlet.

  • Page 67: Connecting A Tv

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a TV You can connect a TV to the computer or to the optional port replicator. To connect a TV to the computer, proceed as follows: Plug one end of the audio/video cable (1) (optional) into the AV Out connector (2) (yellow) and the other end into the TV.
  • Page 68 Connecting peripheral devices To connect a TV to the port replicator, proceed as follows: Attach the port replicator to your computer. Plug one end of the audio/video cable (1) (optional) into the Audio out (R - L) and Video out connectors (2) on your computer and the other end into the Audio (R - L) and Video connectors on your TV.

  • Page 69: Connecting A Projector

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a projector You can connect a projector (such as the Sony LCD projector) directly to your computer or via the port replicator. To connect a projector, proceed as follows: Plug the RGB signal cable (1) into the monitor/VGA connector (2) identified by the Plug the audio cable (3) (not supplied) into the earphone connector (4) identified by the Plug the RGB signal cable and the audio cable into the connectors of the projector (5).

  • Page 70: Selecting Display Modes

    Connecting peripheral devices Selecting display modes When the computer is connected to an external display (desktop monitor, TV, ...), you can select which display is used as the primary monitor. If you want to work on the computer display and the external display at the same time, see Using the Dual Display function To change the primary monitor, proceed as follows: Click the Start button, and then Control Panel.

  • Page 71: Using The Dual Display Function

    Connecting peripheral devices Using the Dual Display function The dual display function allows you to distribute portions of your desktop across separate displays. For example, if you have an external monitor attached to the monitor connector, your LCD display and the monitor can function as a single desktop.
  • Page 72 Connecting peripheral devices Selecting the Dual Display mode To select the Dual Display mode, proceed as follows: Click the Start button on the Windows taskbar. Click Control Panel. Click Appearance and Themes. Click the Display icon. Select the Settings tab. Click the display marked 2.
  • Page 73 Connecting peripheral devices Customizing the virtual desktop You can customize the Dual Display mode by changing the position of the two monitors comprising the virtual desktop. To customize Dual Display mode, proceed as follows: Click the Start button on the Windows taskbar. Click Control Panel.

  • Page 74: Connecting External Speakers

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting external speakers You can enhance the sound quality of your computer by connecting external speakers. To connect external speakers, proceed as follows: Plug the speaker cable (1) into the headphone connector (2). Plug the other end of the speaker cable into the external speaker (3). Turn down the volume of the speakers before you turn them on.

  • Page 75: Connecting An External Microphone

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting an external microphone If you need to use a sound input device, for example to chat on the Internet, you need to plug in an external microphone. To connect an external microphone, proceed as follows: Plug the microphone cable (1) into the microphone connector (2) identified by the Make sure your microphone is designed for computer use.

  • Page 76: Connecting An External Mouse Or Keyboard

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting an external mouse or keyboard You can connect an external mouse or keyboard to the optional port replicator using the PS/2 mouse/ keyboard connector. There is only one PS/2 connector, so you can only connect one external device at the same time.

  • Page 77: Connecting A Universal Serial Bus (Usb) Device

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) device You can connect a USB device (for example, a mouse, floppy disk drive, keyboard, printer) to your computer. USB devices are hot plug and play devices. You do not need to shut down your computer prior to connecting these devices unless the manual supplied with the device states otherwise.

  • Page 78: Connecting A Usb Mouse

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a USB mouse To connect a USB mouse, proceed as follows: Choose the USB connector you prefer to use. Plug the USB mouse cable (2) into the USB connector. You can use your USB mouse (3). The VAIO USB mouse software driver is preinstalled on your computer, therefore, you only need to plug the USB mouse into the USB connector and you can start working.
  • Page 79 Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a USB floppy disk drive As an optional extra, you can purchase a USB floppy disk drive and connect it to your computer. To connect a USB floppy disk drive, proceed as follows: Choose the USB connector you prefer to use. Plug the USB floppy disk drive cable into the USB connector.
  • Page 80 Connecting peripheral devices Inserting a floppy disk To insert a floppy disk, proceed as follows: Hold the disk (1) with the label side facing up. Gently push the disk into the drive (2) until it clicks into place. Removing a floppy disk To remove a floppy disk, proceed as follows: When you have finished using the floppy disk, wait until the LED indicator (1) turns off and then press the eject button (2) to remove the disk.
  • Page 81 Connecting peripheral devices Troubleshooting floppy disks My USB floppy disk drive cannot write to a floppy disk The floppy disk is write-protected. Disable the write-protect feature or use a floppy disk that is not write-protected. Check that the disk is properly inserted into the floppy disk drive. Your disk may be corrupt.

  • Page 82: Connecting A Printer

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a printer You can connect a Windows-compatible printer to your computer to print documents. Connecting a printer using the USB connector You can connect a USB printer compatible with your version of Windows to your computer. To connect a printer using the USB connector, proceed as follows: Plug a USB printer cable (1) into one of the USB connectors (2) on your computer.
  • Page 83 Plug the printer power cord (3) into an AC outlet. Before using the printer, you may need to change the Printer settings in the Sony Notebook Setup software. Turn off your computer and the printer, unplug the AC adapter and the power cord before connecting the printer.

  • Page 84: Connecting An I.link Device

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting an i.LINK device Your computer includes an i.LINK (IEEE1394) connector, which you can use to connect to an i.LINK device such as a digital video camera recorder or to connect two VAIO notebooks in order to copy, delete or edit files.

  • Page 85: Connecting A Digital Video Camera Recorder

    Launch the DVgate application. On Sony digital video cameras, connectors labelled DV Out, DV In/Out or i.LINK are i.LINK- compatible. The Sony digital video camera recorder is an example; your digital video camera recorder may need to be connected differently.
  • Page 86 If this is the case, turn off all connected devices and disconnect unused devices. Check the connection and then turn on the power again. You are strongly advised to use only Sony i.LINK cables, as using other brands may cause problems with the i.LINK devices.

  • Page 87: Connecting To A Network (Lan)

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting to a network (LAN) You can connect your computer to 10BASE-T/100BASE-TX-type networks via an Ethernet network cable. For the detailed settings and devices needed to connect to the network, consult your Network Administrator. The default settings make your computer able to connect to the network. If the main unit is docked, you can only use the Ethernet network connector on the port replicator.

  • Page 88: Upgrading Your Vaio Computer

    Upgrading your VAIO computer Upgrading your VAIO computer Your computer and memory modules use high precision components and electronic connectors technology. To avoid the invalidation of your guarantee by mishandling, it is recommended that: You contact your dealer to install a new memory module. You do not install it yourself, if you are not familiar with upgrading memory on a computer.
  • Page 89 Upgrading your VAIO computer Disconnect the system from its power source (that is, battery or AC adapter) and from any telecommunication links, networks, or modems before you open the system. Failure to do so may result in personal injury or equipment damage. Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) can damage memory modules and other components.
  • Page 90 Upgrading your VAIO computer Removing and installing a memory module To change or add a memory module, proceed as follows: Shut down your computer and disconnect all peripheral devices. Unplug the computer and remove the battery packs. Wait until the computer cools down. Turn your computer upside down.
  • Page 91 Upgrading your VAIO computer Remove the new memory module from its packaging. Install the memory module by sliding it into the memory module slot, as shown. Press the module into place until it clicks. Please do not touch any other board than the memory modules. If you only place 1 memory module, please put the module to the slot, as shown in the illustration below.
  • Page 92 To view the amount of memory, proceed as follows: Turn on the computer. Go to Sony Notebook Setup via the Start menu. The Sony Notebook Setup dialog box appears. In the About this Computer tab you can view the amount of system memory. If the additional memory...

  • Page 93: Getting Help

    Getting help Getting help This section describes how to get help and support if something goes wrong with your computer. Sony offers you many support options for your computer. Sony support options Please see the section Documentation pack delivered with your computer, as well as further sources of reference.
  • Page 94 Getting help e-Support What is e-Support? You have searched our user guides and website (www.vaio-link.com) but have not found an answer to your question/issue? e-Support is the ideal solution for you! Our e-Support Web Portal is an interactive website on which you can submit any technical query you may have regarding your VAIO and receive answers from our dedicated support team.
  • Page 95 Getting help Can I submit questions in my native language? Since you are interacting with our e-Support Team through a portal, which connects you directly to our central database, e-Support will only accept and deal with queries submitted in English. Can I submit my questions at any time? Yes, you can submit your questions 24/7, but please keep in mind that our e-Support Team can only treat your queries from Monday till Friday between 8am and 6pm.
  • Page 96 Precautions Precautions This section describes safety guidelines and precautions to help you protect your computer from potential damage. Please contact VAIO-Link if you need assistance. On handling the hard disk On handling the LCD screen On using the power source On handling your computer On handling floppy disks On handling discs...

  • Page 97: On Handling The Hard Disk

    Precautions On handling the hard disk The hard disk has a high storage density and reads or writes data in a short time. However, it can be easily damaged by mechanical vibration, shock or dust. Although the hard disk has the internal safety device to prevent losing data due to mechanical vibration, shock or dust, you should be careful when handling your computer.

  • Page 98: On Using The Power Source

    Precautions The LCD is manufactured using high-precision technology. You may, however, see tiny black points and/ or bright points (red, blue, or green) that continuously appear on the LCD. This is a normal result of the manufacturing process and does not indicate a malfunction. Avoid rubbing the LCD screen, as this can damage the screen.
  • Page 99 Precautions Do not place your computer in a location subject to: Heat sources, such as radiators or air ducts, Direct sunlight, Excessive dust, Moisture or rain, Mechanical vibration or shock, Strong magnets or speakers that are not magnetically shielded, Ambient temperature of more than 35ºC or less than 5ºC, High humidity.

  • Page 100: On Handling Floppy Disks

    Precautions On handling floppy disks Do not open the shutter manually or touch the surface of the floppy disk. Keep floppy disks away from magnets. Keep floppy disks away from direct sunlight and other sources of heat. On handling discs Do not touch the surface of the disc.

  • Page 101: On Using The Battery Pack

    Precautions On using the battery pack Never leave the battery pack in temperatures above 60°C, such as in a car parked in the sun or under direct sunlight. Battery life is shorter in a cold environment. This is due to decreased battery efficiency at low temperatures.

  • Page 102: On Using Headphones

    Precautions On using headphones Road safety – Do not use headphones while driving, cycling, or operating any motorized vehicle. It may create a traffic hazard and is illegal in some areas. It can also be potentially dangerous to play loud music while walking, especially at pedestrian crossings.
  • Page 103 Trademarks Trademarks Sony, BlueSpace NE, Click to DVD, DVgate Plus, Giga Pocket, HotKey Utility, Memory Stick Formatter, PictureGear Studio, SonicStage, Sony Notebook Setup, UI Design Selector, VAIO Action Setup, VAIO Edit Components, VAIO Media, VAIO Power Management, VAIO System Information, Memory Stick, the Memory Stick logo, VAIO and the VAIO logo are trademarks of Sony Corporation.

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