Contents

Welcome
Getting Started
- Unpacking Your Computer
- Planning an Ergonomic Work Space
Locating Controls And Ports
- About the Front Panel
- About the Back Panel
- About the Remote Control
- About the Keyboard
Setting Up Your Computer
- Connecting a Display (Monitor)
- Connecting the Speakers
- Connecting the Keyboard and Mouse
- Connecting the Telephone and Modem Cables
- Connecting the Power Cords
- Turning On your Computer
- Registering your Computer
Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder
- About Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder
  - Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder includes:
- Setting Up Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder
  - To set up TV connections
  - To set up additional equipment
- Setting Up Giga Pocket Software
  - To set up TV viewing
- Giga Pocket
  - Starting Giga Pocket
  - Using the TV/Recording deck and Playback deck
  - Recording a Video Capsule
  - Using the TV Program Web site
- Timer Recording Wizard
  - Using the Timer Recording Wizard
- Timer Recording Manager
  - Using the Timer Recording Manager
  - Viewing your selected program recording schedule
- Giga Pocket Explorer
  - Recording Video Capsules onto recordable DVD media
  - Exporting Video Capsules
  - Using Network Cabinets
- CLIÉ Converter
  - Starting CLIÉ Converter
  - Converting Video Capsules
  - Transferring converted video files to a Memory Stick media
- Glossary
  - Accessing the Giga Pocket Help
- Internet Electronic Program Guide Service
  - To set up your Internet Electronic Program Guide service
Configuring Your VAIO Computer
- About the Memory Stick Media Slot
- About the SmartMedia Card Slot
- About the CompactFlash/Microdrive Media Slot
- About i.LINK Compatibility
Upgrading and Maintaining your VAIO Computer
- Overview
- About Opening the System Unit
- About Add-on Card Installation
- About Installing Memory
- About the Lithium Battery
- About Hard Disk Drive Installation
Troubleshooting
- About VAIO Computer Functions
  - My computer does not start.
  - Why did my computer or software stop responding?
  - Why does the Windows operating system stop responding during shutdown?
  - Why is my system running slowly?
  - How do I change the video resolution of my display?
- About Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder
  - Why can't I see an image or an image that is displayed properly when I am using a VCR?
  - Why does my Giga Pocket viewing window or the images played back from a Video Capsule, appear distorted or corrupted?
  - Why does my system seem to slow down when I play a Video Capsule?
  - Why did I get the error message, Event buffer of audio overflow?
  - Why did my on-screen display shift or split?
  - Why did Giga Pocket stop allowing me to create new Video Capsules?
- About Using the Optical Disc Drive(s)
  - Why doesn't my optical drive tray open?
  - Why can't I play a DVD or CD media?
  - Why isn't my DVD playing properly?
- About the Mouse and Keyboard
  - Why doesn't my mouse work properly?
  - How do I set up my mouse for left-hand use?
  - Why doesn't my keyboard work properly?
- About the Modem
  - Why is my modem connection slow?
  - Why doesn't my modem work properly?
  - How do I change my modem to rotary or Touch-tone dialing?
- About the Speakers
  - Why is there no sound in any application?
  - Why can't I hear sound when using the SP/DIF option for digital output?
- About Using a Microphone
  - Why doesn't my microphone work properly?
  - Why is my microphone so sensitive to background noise?
- About Using Peripheral Equipment
  - How do I install a printer?
  - The connected printer does not function properly when the computer resumes from a power saving mode.
Notes On Use
- About the Power Source
- About Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder
- About Disposing of the Lithium Battery
- About Handling the Computer System
- About Handling a Monitor (Display)
- About Recording and Data Storage Media
Support Options
- Immediate Help and Support
- Software Help and Support
- Resources for Additional Help and Support

Sony PCV-RS421 User's Guide

Pages 146

Year 2003

Language(s)

of 146

Sony PCV-RS421 Specification

The Sony PCV-RS421 is a desktop computer designed to deliver robust performance for both home and office use. It is powered by an Intel Pentium 4 processor, which provides the necessary computing power for multitasking and running applications smoothly. This model is equipped with 512 MB of DDR SDRAM, allowing for efficient handling of everyday computing tasks, although users may consider upgrading the RAM for more intensive applications.

The PCV-RS421 features an integrated Intel Extreme Graphics 2, which offers basic graphical performance suitable for standard multimedia consumption and light gaming. It comes with a 160 GB Ultra ATA/100 hard drive, providing ample storage space for documents, media files, and software installations.

Connectivity options include USB 2.0 ports, IEEE 1394 (FireWire), and a 10/100 Ethernet interface, ensuring versatile connectivity and network capabilities. Additionally, it includes a DVD±RW/CD-RW drive, allowing users to play and burn DVDs and CDs, catering to their multimedia needs.

The system runs on the Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition operating system, offering a user-friendly interface and compatibility with a wide range of software applications. Audio capabilities are supported by an AC '97 codec, delivering standard sound quality suitable for everyday audio tasks.

Overall, the Sony PCV-RS421 is a reliable and versatile desktop solution tailored for general computing needs, combining essential features with expandability options to enhance user experience.

Sony PCV-RS421 F.A.Q.

How do I perform a factory reset on the Sony PCV-RS421?

To perform a factory reset on the Sony PCV-RS421, restart the computer and press F10 repeatedly to enter the recovery menu. Follow the on-screen instructions to restore the system to its original factory settings.

What should I do if my Sony PCV-RS421 won't power on?

Check the power cable connections, ensure the power outlet is working, and try a different power outlet. If the issue persists, it could be a problem with the power supply or internal components.

How can I upgrade the RAM on my Sony PCV-RS421?

To upgrade the RAM, turn off the PC and unplug all cables. Open the case, locate the RAM slots, remove the old RAM modules by releasing the clips, and insert the new RAM modules firmly until the clips lock.

What graphics card is compatible with the Sony PCV-RS421?

The Sony PCV-RS421 supports AGP graphics cards. Ensure the card is compatible with the power supply and fits within the case dimensions before purchasing.

How do I clean the dust from inside my Sony PCV-RS421?

Turn off and unplug the PC. Open the case, use compressed air to blow out dust from fans, vents, and components. Avoid using a vacuum cleaner to prevent static damage.

What is the recommended maintenance schedule for the Sony PCV-RS421?

Perform monthly cleaning of vents and fans, check for software updates quarterly, and run a full system virus scan biannually. Replace thermal paste and clean internal components annually.

How can I fix overheating issues on my Sony PCV-RS421?

Ensure proper ventilation around the PC, clean dust from fans and vents, check if the CPU fan is functioning correctly, and consider applying new thermal paste to the CPU.

What should I do if my Sony PCV-RS421 is running slow?

Check for unnecessary startup programs, run disk cleanup, defragment the hard drive, ensure antivirus software is up to date, and consider upgrading RAM or the hard drive to an SSD.

How do I install a new hard drive in the Sony PCV-RS421?

Power off and unplug the PC. Open the case, remove the existing drive if needed, and install the new drive into the appropriate bay. Connect the power and data cables, then close the case and boot to BIOS to ensure it is recognized.

Why is my Sony PCV-RS421 making a loud noise?

The noise could be from dust buildup in fans, a failing hard drive, or loose components. Clean the fans, check hard drive health, and ensure all screws and components are securely fastened.