Sony VGC-RA204 Hardware Manual
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Table of Contents
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Summary of Contents for Sony VGC-RA204
- Page 1 Hardware Guide V G C - R A s e r i e s ( P C V - A 1 1 M )
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Page 2: Read This First
Sony Corporation provides no warranty with regard to this manual, the software, or other information contained herein and hereby expressly disclaims any implied warranties or merchantability or fitness for any particular purpose with regard to this manual, the software or such other information. In no event shall Sony Corporation 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. -
Page 3: Environmental Information
Corrugated cardboard is used for packaging cushions. Owner's record The serial number, model number and product key are located on the back of your Sony desktop. Record the numbers and refer to them if you call VAIO-Link. See also the printed Specifications document. -
Page 4: Safety Information
Hardware Guide Safety information General ❑ Opening the unit, for whatever reason, could lead to damages that are not covered by the guarantee. ❑ To avoid electrical shock, do not open the cabinet. Refer servicing to qualified personnel only. ❑ To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose your VAIO desktop to rain or moisture. -
Page 5: Optical Disc Drive
Hardware Guide 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. ❑... -
Page 6: Regulatory Information
Hardware Guide 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 Disposing of the internal memory backup battery ❑ Your Sony VAIO desktop is equipped with an internal back-up memory battery (motherboard battery) that should not have to be replaced during the lifetime of the product. If you want to replace the battery, please contact VAIO-Link: ❑...
- Page 8 Dual drives – Enjoy the freedom of two optical disc drives. ❑ Sony audio and video quality – The advanced graphics card and high-quality external stereo speakers enable you to take advantage of today’s advanced multimedia applications, games, and entertainment software. You can link up your PC to your Home Cinema equipment and enjoy surround sound.
- Page 9 Hardware Guide Welcome ❑ Excellent customer support – If you are experiencing any problems with your computer, please check the VAIO-Link website for a possible solution: www.vaio-link.com. Before contacting VAIO-Link, please try to solve the problem by reading this guide, your printed Guide to Troubleshooting and Recovering your VAIO System, the online help files in the Windows Help and Support Center or the manuals and help files for the peripherals or software.
- Page 10 Hardware Guide Documentation pack Your documentation pack contains printed information and user guides to read on your computer. Guides are provided in PDF format, which you can easily browse through and print out. The My Info Centre portal is a perfect starting point to using your VAIO - a comprehensive collection of everything you need to get the most from your PC.
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Page 11: Printed Documentation
A Guide to Troubleshooting and Recovering your VAIO System, where you will find solutions to common problems, an explanation of the purpose and use of the VAIO disc delivered with your computer, and VAIO-Link information; ❑ Booklets containing the following information: Sony Guarantee conditions, Safety Regulations, Modem Regulations and Wireless LAN Regulations; ❑... - Page 12 Hardware Guide Non-printed documentation My Documentation contains the following VAIO user guides: ❑ The Hardware Guide (this guide) explains the features of your VAIO in detail, how to use these features confidently and safely, connect peripheral devices and more. ❑ The Software Guide describes how to register your VAIO, the software features available with VAIO systems, how to change settings, how to manage drivers, and more.
- Page 13 Hardware Guide Further sources ❑ Go to Start > Help and Support for VAIO support information as well as tips and tricks. ❑ Consult the Online Help files of the software you are using for detailed information on features and troubleshooting. ❑...
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Page 14: Ergonomic Considerations
Hardware Guide Welcome Ergonomic considerations Whenever possible, try and take into account the following ergonomic considerations when using your new computer, whether at home or in the office:... - Page 15 Hardware Guide ❑ Position of the keyboard and mouse – Place the keyboard directly in front of you (1). Keep your forearms horizontal, with your wrists in a neutral, comfortable position (2) while using the keyboard or mouse – not at an angle. Let your upper arms hang naturally at your sides.
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Page 16: Table Of Contents
Hardware Guide Using your VAIO computer Once you have read and followed the information in the printed Getting Started guide and Specifications sheet, you can start using your computer safely and confidently. Read on to get the most out of using your VAIO computer. ❑... -
Page 17: Shutting Down Your Computer Safely
Hardware Guide 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 18: Using The Keyboard
Hardware Guide Using your VAIO computer Using the keyboard Your VAIO is delivered with a wireless keyboard. You can place the keyboard anywhere you find comfortable within a range of approx. 10 m* from the receiver. The keyboard has a standard key arrangement and additional keys that perform specific functions. For more information on the standard keys and shortcuts, please go to the Windows Help and Support Center (Start >... - Page 19 Hardware Guide FUNCTION Standby Press the button to place the computer in Standby mode. Press the power button or Standby key briefly to resume normal operation. Numeric keypad Use the numeric keypad to type numbers or to perform basic maths calculations. Press the Num Lock key to activate the numeric keypad.
- Page 20 Hardware Guide FUNCTION <Fn> key Used in combination with other keys to execute commands. <Fn>+<F2>: Turns off the speaker sound. <Fn>+<F3>: Decreases the volume of the speakers. <Fn>+<F4>: Increases the volume of the speakers. Function keys The 12 function keys along the top of the keyboard are used to perform certain tasks. The task associated with each function key may vary from one application to the next.
- Page 21 Hardware Guide Before you use the keyboard Before attempting to use the wireless keyboard, you must enable communication between the computer and the keyboard. 4 AA batteries, for use in the wireless keyboard, are supplied with your VAIO. To connect the wireless keyboard, proceed as follows: Insert the 4 AA batteries into the wireless keyboard as shown (1).
- Page 22 Hardware Guide Using your VAIO computer ✍ If your wireless keyboard does not operate properly, the batteries may need to be replaced. If your wireless keyboard is not being used for extended periods of time, remove the batteries to avoid possible damage from battery leakage. Always make sure to use the same type of batteries.
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Page 23: Using The Pointing Device
Hardware Guide Using the pointing device The keyboard features a pointing device (1), which controls the cursor on the screen. You can point to, select and drag objects on the screen using the built-in pointing device. Action Description Point Slide one finger on the pointing device to place the pointer (2) on an item or object. Click Press the left button (3) once. - Page 24 Hardware Guide Before using the pointing device Before attempting to use the pointing device, you must activate it. To activate the pointing device, proceed as follows: Fold the keyboard out. Turn on the Pointing Device switch (1). Close the lower part of the cover as shown (2). You can now use the pointing device together with your keyboard.
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Page 25: Using The Tv Function
Hardware Guide Using the TV function Your computer is equipped with a TV-tuner board. In combination with Sony's VAIO Zone software, it allows you to: ❑ Watch, record and play back analogue broadcasted cable and terrestrial TV programmes, all by remote control;... -
Page 26: Using The Mouse
Hardware Guide Using the mouse Your computer is delivered with a wireless optical mouse, which has no cables to plug in and uses a light-emitting diode (LED) instead of a ball. You can use the mouse anywhere you feel comfortable within a range of approx. 10 m* of the receiver. Avoid using the mouse on a piece of glass or other transparent material, as this can interfere with smooth cursor movement on the screen. - Page 27 Hardware Guide Before using the mouse Before attempting to use the wireless mouse, you must enable communication between the computer and the mouse. Two AA batteries, specific for use in the wireless mouse, are supplied with your VAIO. To connect the wireless mouse, proceed as follows: Turn the wireless mouse over and slide the power button to the OFF position (1).
- Page 28 Hardware Guide Using your VAIO computer ✍ Steps 5 and 6 must be carried out within 10 seconds of each other. If your wireless mouse does not operate properly, the batteries may need to be replaced. If your wireless mouse is not being used for an extended period of time, remove the batteries to avoid possible damage from battery leakage.
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Page 29: Setting Up The Mouse For Left-Handed Users
Hardware Guide Setting up the mouse for left-handed users To set your mouse up for left-handed users, proceed as follows: Go to Start, select Control Panel, then click the Printers and Other Hardware option. Click the mouse icon. The Mouse Properties dialog box appears. In the Buttons tab, select the option button next to Switch primary and secondary buttons. -
Page 30: Using The Disc Drives
Hardware Guide Using the disc drives Your computer is equipped with two separate optical drives. Please see the printed Specifications sheet to see which drives your model has. For installing software and using the VAIO Recovery Disc it is recommended that you use the upper drive. ❑... - Page 31 Hardware Guide To remove a disc, proceed as follows: Make sure the disc indicator light is not on. Press the appropriate eject button to open the drive and remove the disc carefully. You can also use the Eject buttons at the top of the keyboard.
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Page 32: Playing Dvds
Hardware Guide Playing DVDs To achieve optimum performance when playing DVDs, you should follow these recommendations: ❑ Close all open applications before playing a DVD movie. ❑ You can play DVDs with the software VAIO Zone. ❑ Do not switch power saving modes while playing a DVD. ❑... - Page 33 Hardware Guide Using your VAIO computer Troubleshooting discs If you have problems with your optical disc, check the printed Guide to Troubleshooting and Recovering your VAIO System and the VAIO-Link website (www.vaio-link.com).
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Page 34: Using The Floppy Disk Drive
Hardware Guide Using the floppy disk drive Your VAIO desktop is equipped with a floppy disk drive. To insert a floppy disk, proceed as follows: Pull out and slide down the front cover, as shown. Hold the floppy disk with the label side facing up and gently push the disk into the floppy disk drive until it clicks into place. -
Page 35: Using The Modem
Hardware Guide Troubleshooting floppy disks My 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. ❑... -
Page 36: Using Power Modes
Hardware Guide Using power modes The colour of the power indicator light on the main unit tells you which mode the computer is in. Power indicator Mode Green Computer is in Normal mode Amber Computer is in Standby mode No light Computer is turned off or in Hibernate mode ✍... -
Page 37: Using Standby Mode
Hardware Guide Using Standby mode If you plan to stop using your computer for a short period of time (not overnight), you can put it into Standby mode instead of turning it off completely. Putting the computer into Standby mode saves energy and allows a quick return to normal computer use. To activate Standby mode manually, proceed as follows: Save your work, close all applications and close your Internet connection, if applicable. -
Page 38: Using Hibernate Mode
Hardware Guide Using Hibernate mode If you are interrupted and need to leave your computer suddenly, you can put it into Hibernate mode. This power saving mode saves you the time of shutting down in the normal way. When you put your computer into Hibernate mode: ❑... -
Page 39: Using The Media Slots
Using the media slots As well as the Sony Memory Stick, your VAIO computer also supports other high capacity memory card formats, such as CompactFlash, Secure Digital (SD) and xD Picture. You can exchange digital data with a number of compatible products, such as digital cameras, mobile phones or handheld devices. - Page 40 Hardware Guide Inserting a Memory Stick To insert a Memory Stick, proceed as follows: Pull and slide down the front panel cover and locate the appropriate memory stick slot. See the printed Specifications sheet for the exact location of the slots. Insert the memory stick into the slot with the arrow side pointing upwards.
- Page 41 Hardware Guide Removing a Memory Stick To remove a Memory Stick, proceed as follows: Make sure the indicator light is not on. Push the memory stick in to release it, and then pull it out. ✍ You are recommended to remove the memory stick before shutting down the computer. If an error message appears when you remove it, insert the memory stick into the slot again and press <Enter>.
- Page 42 Hardware Guide Using your VAIO computer Write-protecting Memory Sticks Some Memory Sticks are designed with an erasure prevention switch to protect valuable data from accidental erasure or overwriting. Move the tab horizontally or vertically to set or release write-protection. When the erasure prevention switch is off, data can be saved on the Memory Stick.
- Page 43 Hardware Guide Using xD Picture cards Your VAIO has an xD-Picture card slot that allows you to transfer pictures between your digital camera, PC, PDA, printer and more. The xD-Picture Card is small and light, featuring high-speed transfer rates and high-volume capacity. Currently available in 16 MB, 32 MB, 64 MB, 128 MB and 256 MB versions, the card reaches high read/write speeds, and has an impressive range of compatibility.
- Page 44 Hardware Guide Removing an xD Picture card To remove an xD Picture card, proceed as follows: Make sure the indicator light is not on. Push the card in to release it, and then pull it out. ✍ You are recommended to remove the memory card before shutting down the computer. If an error message appears when you remove it, insert the memory card into the slot again and press <Enter>.
- Page 45 Hardware Guide Using CompactFlash cards Your VAIO desktop has a CompactFlash slot that supports Type I or Type II cards. CompactFlash is a removable mass storage device. And is used to interconnect digital cameras, digital music players, desktop computers, handheld PCs, personal communicators, Palm PCs, digital voice recorders and photo printers.
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Page 46: Inserting A Compactflash Card
Hardware Guide Inserting a CompactFlash card Simply insert the card gently into the card slot. The card is automatically detected by your system and will appear with its own icon under My Computer. ✍ Do not force a CompactFlash card into the slot. It may damage the connector pins. If you have difficulty inserting a CompactFlash card, check that you are inserting the card in the correct direction. - Page 47 Hardware Guide Using Secure Digital cards The Secure Digital (SD) card is a small, high-capacity data storage media card. ✍ The Secure digital card slot is exclusively for the use of SD cards and Multi Media cards. Please do not insert other memory cards. Inserting a Secure Digital card To insert the SD card, proceed as follows: Insert the SD card into the SD card slot.
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Page 48: Using Pc Cards
Hardware Guide Using PC Cards Your VAIO desktop has a PC Card slot on the front panel that supports Type I or Type II PC Cards. PC Cards allow you to interconnect with portable external devices. Inserting a PC Card To insert a PC Card proceed as follows: Open the bottom panel on the front of your VAIO. -
Page 49: Removing A Pc Card
Hardware Guide Removing a PC Card Follow the steps below to remove the PC Card while your computer is on. If it is not removed properly, your system may crash and unsaved data may be lost. If you want to remove a PC Card when your computer is off, skip steps 1 to 5. To remove a PC Card, proceed as follows: Close any applications that are using the PC Card. -
Page 50: Expansion Capabilities
Bottom slot: PCI Express slot containing the modem card and PCMCIA interface. Empty PCI slots allow you the choice of adding to the expansion capabilities of your computer. You are strongly advised not to add hardware yourself. Please contact your local Sony dealer for advice on changing the internal hardware components. -
Page 51: Connecting Peripheral Devices
(page 59) 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: www.sonystyle-europe.com For more information about connection compatibility, go to the VAIO-Link website: (page 55) www.vaio-link.com... -
Page 52: Connecting A Display
Hardware Guide Connecting a display You can connect multiple displays to your desktop, each using a different port on the back of your computer: ❑ an LCD screen using the DVI-D connector ❑ a TV using the S-video/video Combo output port ❑... - Page 53 Hardware Guide To change your display from VGA to DVD-D or vice versa, proceed as follows: Connect the display(s), as described in the printed Getting Started or in the instructions delivered with the display, if applicable. Go to Control Panel. Click Appearance and Themes then Display.
- Page 54 Hardware Guide Connecting a TV set You can connect a TV directly to your computer. In order to be able to use a TV screen, you also have to enable the TV output function. Your VAIO desktop is delivered with a video cable (or ’converter cable’), which is for use with TV sets without an S-Video port. Connecting a TV that has no S-Video port To connect a TV to your VAIO desktop with the supplied video out cable, proceed as follows: Plug one end of the video cable into the S-video/video Combo...
- Page 55 Hardware Guide Connecting a TV that has an S-Video port To connect a TV to your VAIO desktop with an S-Video cable (not supplied), proceed as follows: Plug one end of the S-Video cable into the S-video/video Combo output port on the back of your computer. Plug the other end of the S-Video cable into your TV’s S-Video port.
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Page 56: Connecting A Sound System
Hardware Guide Connecting a sound system Your new PC allows you to enjoy your DVDs and audio files with the unbeatable experience of surround sound. There are 3 audio ports on the back of the unit to make a connection to your home cinema system via your amplifier. 1 port makes a connection to the centre speakers, another port to the front (left and right) speakers and the third port to the rear (left and right) speakers. -
Page 57: Connecting A Printer
Hardware Guide Connecting a printer To connect a printer, you can use either the printer port (shown in the top picture) or a USB port (bottom picture), depending on the cable you use for your printer. Please see your printer’s documentation for details on connection and installation. Always check the printer manufacturer’s website for the latest drivers for your operating system. -
Page 58: Connecting A Digital Camera
The i.LINK device will need its own power supply. ❑ You are strongly advised to use only Sony i.LINK cables, as using other brands may cause problems with the i.LINK devices. ❑ The i.LINK connection may vary, depending on the software applications, operating system, and compatible i.LINK devices. Not all products with an i.LINK connection may communicate with each other. -
Page 59: Connecting A Microphone
Connecting an S/PDIF device The S/PDIF (Sony/Philips Digital Interface) port on your computer allows you to transfer audio files to optical devices. The advantage is that is does not use the conversion to and from an analog format, which could degrade the signal quality. -
Page 60: Connecting To A Network
Hardware Guide Connecting to a network Your computer comes with a built-in Ethernet interface. To connect to a network, proceed as follows: Connect your 10BASE-T/100BASE-TX/1000BASE-T Ethernet cable (not supplied) to the Ethernet port, identified by the symbol , on the back of the computer. If there is a sticker covering the Ethernet port, this is to remind customers in Germany not to insert an ISDN cable (see caution below). -
Page 61: Upgrading Your Vaio Computer
Upgrading your VAIO computer Sony recommends contacting your local dealer for upgrade or maintenance of your new computer. Your local dealer has knowledge of this specialised personal computer and familiar with the safety practices and regulatory compliance required for using and modifying electronic equipment. -
Page 62: Upgrading Memory
Hardware Guide Upgrading memory In the future, you may want to upgrade the memory installed on your VAIO by replacing / adding memory modules. However, we recommend that you do not install them yourself unless you are familiar with upgrading memory on a computer. For memory upgrades, use only those modules mentioned in the printed Specifications table. -
Page 63: Viewing The Amount Of Memory
Hardware Guide Viewing the amount of memory To view the amount of memory, proceed as follows: Turn on the computer. Click the Start button, point to All Programs, Security & Utilities, then VAIO System Information, and click VAIO System Information again. You can view the amount of installed memory here. - Page 64 Hardware Guide To remove an existing memory module, release the end latches and gently lift out the module, as shown (may vary from actual configuration): To insert a new memory module, remove it from its anti-static package, handling it only by the edges. Upgrading your VAIO computer...
- Page 65 Hardware Guide Locate the notch on the bottom edge of the memory module. Align the memory module over the slot, making sure the module is facing the correct way. Press evenly against the memory module's upper corners. The end latches snap into position automatically, as shown.
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Page 66: Getting Help
Hardware Guide 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 documentation Please see the section Documentation pack computer, as well as further sources of reference. - Page 67 Hardware Guide 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 68 Hardware Guide Getting help 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. Is there a cost involved for using e-Support? No, this is a complete free of charge service offered to all registered VAIO customers! How do I know when the e-Support Team has handled my query/case?
- Page 69 Hardware Guide 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 (page 69) ❑ On using the power source (page 70) ❑...
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Page 70: On Handling The Hard Disk
Hardware Guide 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 71: On Using The Power Source
Hardware Guide On using the power source ❑ See the printed Specifications sheet to check the power operation of your VAIO. ❑ Do not share the AC outlet with other high power-consuming equipment, such as a photocopier or shredder. ❑ You can purchase a power strip with a surge protector. -
Page 72: On Handling Your Computer
Hardware Guide On handling your computer ❑ Clean the unit with a soft cloth, which is either dry or lightly moistened with a mild detergent solution. Do not use any type of abrasive pad, scouring powder, or solvent such as alcohol or benzene, as these may damage the finish of your computer. ❑... -
Page 73: On Handling Lcd Screens
Hardware Guide ❑ If the computer is brought directly from a cold location to a warm one, moisture may condense inside your computer. In this case, allow at least one hour before turning on your computer. If any problems occur, unplug your computer and contact VAIO-Link. ❑... -
Page 74: On Handling Floppy Disks
Hardware Guide 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 ❑... -
Page 75: On Handling Memory Sticks
Hardware Guide On handling Memory Sticks ❑ Do not touch the Memory Stick connector with your finger or metallic objects. ❑ Use only the label supplied with the Memory Stick as a label. ❑ Do not bend, drop, or apply heavy shock to the Memory Stick. ❑... - Page 76 SonicStage Mastering Studio, Sony Notebook Setup, VAIO Edit Components, VAIO Launcher, VAIO Media, VAIO Power Management, VAIO Power Management Viewer, VAIO System Information, VAIO Zone, Memory Stick, the Memory Stick logo, VAIO and the VAIO logo are trademarks of Sony Corporation.