Sony PCV-RX650 v2 User's Guide
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Welcome
Congratulations on your purchase of the Sony VAIO Digital Studio computer! Your new, high-performance, multimedia computer combines audio, video, and information technology features.
Note:
Click here to find the latest updates and supplemental information about your computer.
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Features
VAIO AV applications
This suite of Sony original applications includes PictureGear , Smart Capture, DVgate , DigitalPrint, SonicStage , MovieShaker , VisualFlow , and Media Bar DVD Player. These software applications make it easy to use advanced multimedia techniques to develop your personal audio and video creations. Using the i.LINK ports, you can capture, view, and share both still and video images, then catalog everything for fast, easy storage and retrieval.
DVD-RW drive (not available on all models)
This new optical storage technology provides increased storage capacity and a dynamic multimedia computing experience. Your state-of-the-art DVD-RW drive writes to DVD-R/DVD-RW and CD-R/CD-RW media, and plays your favorite DVDs and CDs. This drive also functions as the ideal solution for making backups and archiving data, with the ability to store up to 4.7 GB of data on a single DVD-R/DVD-RW media (You can store up to 650 MB of data on a single CD-R/CD-RW media). Save movies, videos and still images to share with family and friends.
DVD-ROM drive (not available on all models)
This optical storage technology provides increased storage capacity and a rich multimedia computing experience. Your DVD-ROM drive plays both DVDs and CDs.
CD-RW drive (not available on all models)
This drive is the ideal solution for making backups and archiving data, with the ability to store up to 650 MB of removable, rewritable storage on a single rewritable CD. Save your movies to CD-R or CD-RW media and share videos and images with family and friends.
CD-ROM drive (not available on all models)
You can play your favorite audio and video CDs using this high-quality CD-ROM drive.
i.LINK (IEEE1394) interface
Two built-in i.LINK ports, located on the front and rear panels, provide you with digital connection capability. The i.LINK name and logo identify a high-speed communication interface, which allows you to easily connect compatible digital camcorders.
Note:
i.LINK is a trademark of Sony used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE1394 connection. The i.LINK connection may vary, depending on the software applications, operating system and compatible i.LINK devices. 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 an optical or hard disk drive, confirm their operating system compatibility and required operating conditions.
VAIO Smart keyboard
This PS/2 keyboard has programmable shortcut buttons for launching your favorite programs or accessing the Internet.
Sony audio and video quality
Take advantage of today's advanced multimedia applications, games, and entertainment software with the Sony high-fidelity audio system, high-powered 3-D graphics, and "Sony-Tuned" MPEG digital video playback.
Microsoft Windows XP operating system
Your system includes this latest consumer operating system from Microsoft.
Preinstalled software
All the software on your computer is preinstalled, configured, and ready for you to use right out of the box.
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Communications
You have the choice of a variety of popular online services to browse the Internet, access e-mail, send faxes, and much more.
Exceptional performance
Your computer includes an Intel processor, a 10BASE-T/100BASE-TX Fast Ethernet interface, and a V.90 data/fax modem.1
Note:
Your computer may not be equipped with all of the hardware features listed in this section. To view the specific hardware configuration for your system, see the Specifications sheet.
1 A ctual upload and download speeds may vary due to line conditions, ISP support, and government regulations.
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Unpacking Your Computer
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Computer and supplied accessories
Computer and accessories
Manuals
VAIO Digital Studio Computer QuickStart Contains information on unpacking and setting up your computer, supplementary updates, support information, and software information.
The VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide Contains information on the hardware and preinstalled software applications included with your system. To access the online manual:
1. Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then click VAIO Help and Support.
2. From the VAIO Help and Support menu, click VAIO User Guide.
Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder Getting Started Guide (For models equipped with Giga Pocket) Contains information on setting up and using the Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder equipment and software applications.
Home Networking Solutions (For models equipped with a HomePNA modem) Contains information on using an installed HomePNA modem with Sony VAIO computers.
Information About DVD Recording (For models equipped with a DVD- RW drive) Contains information designed to help you become familiar with your DVD-RW drive and the DVD recording software applications included with your computer.
Safety Information Contains safety and legal information about your VAIO computer.
Specifications Contains information on the hardware and physical configurations of your VAIO computer.
Microsoft Windows XP Guide Contains information on how to use the basic features of the Windows
operating system.
Recovery CDs
System Recovery CD(s) Enables you to restore the software that shipped with your computer if it becomes corrupted or is erased. System Recovery CDs can only be used to restore the hard disk of the Sony computer you purchased.
Application Recovery CD(s) Enables you to reinstall individual applications if they become corrupted or are erased.
Driver Recovery CD Enables you to restore device drivers if they become corrupted or are erased.
Software Library
The Software Library contains the Microsoft software license agreement and the Sony end-user license agreement. Page 5
To Choose an Ergonomic Location for Your Computer
Before you get started, find the best location for your new computer.
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Planning your workspace
Stable work surface Use a stable work surface large enough to support the computer and other peripheral equipment.
Ventilation Leave at least eight inches of space on the left and back sides of your computer to enable proper ventilation.
Placement of the keyboard, mouse, and other input devices Place your keyboard, mouse, and other input devices so that your arms and hands are in a relaxed, comfortable position. The keyboard should be directly in front of you. Adjust the level of the keyboard so that your lower arms are parallel to the floor. Keep your wrists in a relaxed position when you are using the keyboardnot angled up or down. Use the palmrest only briefly, for resting. While typing, never use the palmrest or rest your hands on the table. Position the mouse at the same level as the keyboard. Hold the mouse with a relaxed hand, and use your whole arm to move it. Take breaks during sessions with your computer. Excessive use of the mouse or a joystick may strain muscles or tendons.
Furniture and posture Sit in a chair with good back support and armrests. Adjust the level of the chair so your feet are flat on the floor. A footrest may make you more comfortable. Sit with relaxed, upright postureavoid slouching forward or leaning far backward.
Viewing angle of the display Position the display 18 to 26 inches directly in front of you, with the top of the screen at or a little below eye level. Use the display's tilting feature to find the best position. You can reduce eye strain and muscle fatigue by placing the display in the proper position.
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.
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Locating Controls And Connectors
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Front Panel Overview
The front panel of your VAIO Computer allows access to the optical and floppy disk drives. It also includes Universal Serial Bus (USB) and i.LINK ports to connect compatible peripheral devices.
Note:
i.LINK is a trademark of Sony used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE1394 connection. The i.LINK connection may vary, depending on the software applications, operating system, and compatible i.LINK devices. 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 an optical or hard disk drive, confirm their operating system compatibility and required operating conditions.
Front panel
Note:
Your computer may not be supplied with all of the features listed, depending on the system configuration you purchased.
1 Optical drive 1
See Specifications sheet for optical drive information.
2 Optical drive 2
See Specifications sheet for optical drive information.
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3 Floppy disk drive
Reads and writes data from and to a 3.5-inch floppy disk.
4 Floppy disk drive access indicator light
Lights in green while reading and writing data from and to a floppy disk.
5 Optical drive access indicator light
Lights in amber while reading and writing data from and to the optical drives.
6 Hard disk drive access indicator light
Lights in amber while reading and writing data from and to the hard disk.
7 Power switch and indicator light
Turns the computer on/off. The indicator light is blue while the power is on and amber when the computer is in Stand by mode.
8 i.LINK 4-pin port (IEEE1394)
Connection for a compatible digital device.
9 Optical drive 1 eject button
Ejects a disc from Optical drive 1.
10 Optical drive 2 eject button
Ejects a disc from Optical drive 2.
11 Memory Stick slot (Not available on all models)
Reads and writes data from and to a Memory Stick media.
12 Floppy disk eject button
Ejects a floppy disk.
13 Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports (2)
Connections for compatible USB devices.
Note:
For your convenience, your computer includes USB and i.LINK ports on both the front and back panels. The 4-pin i.LINK port is located on the front panel and the 6-pin i.LINK port is located on the back.
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Back Panel Overview
The back panel of your computer contains the ports for supplied and optional accessories. The icons on the back panel locate and identify the ports and jacks on your computer.
Note:
Your computer may not be supplied with all of the features listed, depending on the system configuration you purchased.
Back panel
1 Mouse port
Connection for a PS/2 mouse.
2 Keyboard port
Connection for a PS/2 Keyboard.
3 Ethernet port
10BASE-T/100BASE-TX Fast Ethernet interface.
(The port marked with (Network) is for LAN connections only.)
4 Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports (2)
Connection for compatible USB devices.
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5 Printer port
Connection for a parallel device, such as a printer or scanner.
6 i.LINK 6-pin port (IEEE1394)
Connection for a compatible digital device.
7 Serial port
Connection for a compatible serial device.
8 Headphones jack
Connection for the supplied speakers or optional headphones.
9 Line In jack
Connection for an audio device.
10 Microphone jack
Connection for a microphone (optional).
11 Monitor port
Connection for a standard display.
12 Modem line jack
Connection for the supplied modem cable to the wall jack.
13 AC Input port
Connection for the supplied power cord.
14 Telephone jack
Connection for a phone cable (optional) to the computer.
Note:
i.LINK is a trademark of Sony used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE1394 connection. The i.LINK connection may vary, depending on the software applications, operating system, and compatible i.LINK devices. 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 an optical or hard disk drive, confirm their operating system compatibility and required operating conditions.
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Setting Up Your VAIO Digital Studio Computer
Your computer has many new and exciting features. This section contains information on setting up your computer and peripheral devices.
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To Set Up Your Computer
Your computer may not be equipped with the same hardware features shown in this section. See the Specifications sheet for your system's configuration.
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Connecting a display (monitor)
1. Plug the display cable into the Monitor port.
2. If necessary, plug the display cable into the rear of the display.
Connecting a display
Note:
Install your equipment so that you can easily reach the power outlet in the event of an emergency.
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Connecting the speakers
1. Plug the cable attached to the left speaker into the L Out jack on the back of the right speaker.
2. Plug the cable attached to the right speaker into the Headphones jack.
3. Plug the jack end of the AC adapter cord into the DC In jack on the back of the right speaker and plug the other end into a grounded AC wall outlet or power strip.
Connecting the speakers
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Connecting the keyboard and mouse
1. Plug the keyboard cable into the Keyboard port on the back of the computer.
2. Plug the mouse cable into the Mouse port.
Connecting the keyboard and mouse
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Connecting the modem cable
1. Unplug your telephone from the wall jack.
2. Plug the modem cable (supplied) into the Modem line jack on the computer, and then plug the other end of the cable into the wall jack.
Connecting the modem cable
Caution:
Your computer has a protective sticker covering the Ethernet port located on the rear panel. Connect only 10BASE-T and 100BASE-TX cables to the Ethernet port. Using other cables or a telephone cable may result in an electric current overload and can cause a malfunction, excessive heat or fire in the port. For help on connecting to a network, see your network administrator.
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Connecting the power cords
1. Plug the power cord into the back of the computer.
2. Plug both the display and power cords into a grounded AC wall outlet or a power strip.
Connecting the power cords
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To Turn on Your Computer
Turning on your computer
1. Press the power switch on the computer to turn on the power.
2. Press the power switch on the display to turn on the power.
3. Press the power switch on the right speaker to turn on the power.
Turning on your computer
Note:
When you start your system for the first time, your computer may detect new equipment and display a dialog box that asks you to restart your computer. Please respond to this request immediately.
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To Register Your Computer
Take advantage of Sony's commitment to quality customer support and receive these benefits by registering your computer:
Sony Customer Support Communicate with a Support Representative to troubleshoot problems you may be having with your computer.
Limited warranty Protect your investment. See the Warranty Card for more details.
Note:
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.
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Setting up your dial-up connection
The first time you turn your computer on, follow these steps to set up your dial-up connection:
1. Click Start from the Windows taskbar and select All Programs.
2. Point to Accessories, point to Communications, and then click New Connection Wizard. The Location Information window appears.
Location Information window
3. Enter in your information as requested. Click OK. The Phone and Modem Options window appears.
Phone and Modem Options window
4. Click to select your dialing location and then click OK. The New Connection Wizard appears.
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New Connection Wizard window
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to finish setting up your dial-up connection.
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To Set Up Power Management Modes
When you plan to stop using your computer for a short period of time, you can set your system to automatically enter a power management mode. Your computer may have difficulty resuming from a power-saving mode, if the power scheme is not set up correctly.
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Setting up your system's power management
Sony recommends following these steps for optimum power management:
1. Click Start in the Windows taskbar and select Control Panel.
2. Select Performance and Maintenance. The Performance and Maintenance window appears.
3. Click Power Options. The Power Options Properties window appears.
4. Click the Hibernate tab and verify that the Enable hibernation check box is selected. Click Apply.
5. Click the Power Schemes tab. Select the Home/Office Desk power scheme.
6. In the section, "Settings for Home/Office Desk power scheme," use the drop-down list to set a time value for System stand by or System hibernates. Do not set time values for both settings. Click Apply.
7. Click the Advanced tab. In the Power buttons section, "When I press the power button on my computer," use the drop-down list and select Hibernate. Click Apply.
8. Click OK.
Your computer is set to enter a power-saving mode automatically. You can resume from this mode by briefly pressing the power button on your computer.
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Stand by mode indicators
You can identify power management mode the computer is in by the color of the power indicator light.
Color Mode
Amber Computer is in Stand by mode.
Blue Computer is in Normal mode, ready to use.
No color Computer is turned off or in Hibernate mode.
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To Shut Down Your Computer
When you are ready to turn off your computer for an extended period of time, use this procedure.
Caution:
To avoid loss of data, do not use the Power switch to turn off the computer.
Turning off your computer
1. Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then select Turn Off Computer.
The Turn Off Computer dialog box appears.
2. Select the Turn Off option.
Note:
Respond to any prompts about saving your documents.
3. Wait for your computer to turn off automaticallythe power indicator light turns off.
4. Turn off any peripheral devices connected to your computer.
Note:
If you plan to turn off your computer for a short period of time, you may want to use Stand by mode instead.
About the power switch
If your system stops responding, press and hold the Power switch for more than six seconds to force your system to shut down. You may need to repeat this procedure if your system does not shut down on the first attempt.
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VAIO Action Setup
VAIO Action Setup manages the settings for your computer's Shortcut keys (S Keys).
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Shortcut Keys
The programmable S Keys are linked with the following applications as their default settings:
S1 Outlook Express
S2 Internet Explorer
S3 SonicStage
S4 PictureGear
S5 MovieShaker
S6 Help/Demo
You can reprogram the S keys to launch other applications.
Note:
i.LINK is a trademark of Sony used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE1394 connection. The i.LINK connection may vary, depending on the software applications, operating system, and compatible i.LINK devices. 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 an optical or hard disk drive, confirm their operating system compatibility and required operating conditions.
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Changing the settings of the S keys
1. Click Start in the Windows taskbar and select All Programs.
2. Select VAIO Action Setup, then click VAIO Action Setup.
Note:
You can also double-click the VAIO Action Setup icon, located in the Windows taskbar, to launch VAIO Action Setup.
3. Click the S Key you want to change.
4. From the Select Application dialog box, click the option for the desired type of function. The corresponding applications appear in the list box on the right.
Note:
You can drag an application to place it into the list box.
5. The Confirmation Application Name window appears. Click Next.
6. You can type a new name and description, if desired. Click Finish.
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To Change the Sony Software Window Design
You can select from different window designs for your Sony software and create your own personal computing environment.
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Changing the window design
1. Click Start in the Windows taskbar and select the Control Panel.
2. Click Other Control Panel Options.
3. Click UI Design Selector.
4. Click << or >> and select the desired design.
5. Click Apply.
6. The "UI Design Selector" window design changes. The window design for your Sony software matches the "UI Design Selector" window.
7. To try another selection, click << or >>, then click Apply.
8. When you have made your selection, click OK. The UI Design Selector closes and the Sony software window design displays.
Note:
You may only use this feature with compatible UI Design Selector software.
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Configuring Your VAIO Computer
This section provides information about maintaining your computer's hard disk drive performance, connecting a compatible i.LINK device, and enabling an Ethernet connection.
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Hard Disk Drive Partition
To maintain optimum system performance, you should defragment your computer's D partition regularly.
To improve the performance of Sony audio and video software applications, the hard disk drive on your computer has been formatted with two partitions, C and D. Some Sony software applications save files to the D partition. This prevents large video captures from consuming the available space on your C partition.
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Defragmenting your hard disk drive
If you encounter frame dropping while recording digital video onto your hard disk drive, defragmentation may be necessary.
1. Deactivate your screen saver and close other open applications, if applicable.
2. Click Start in the Windows taskbar and select All Programs.
3. Point to Accessories, point to System Tools, and then select Disk Defragmenter.
The Disk Defragment dialog box appears.
4. Select Action from the menu bar and click Analyze.
Note:
It may take more than a couple of hours to complete defragmentation, depending on the data capacity and current utilization of your computer's hard disk drive(s).
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i.LINK (IEEE1394) Compatibility
Your VAIO computer may include either 4-pin or 6-pin, or both types, of i.LINK ports.
Note:
i.LINK is a trademark of Sony used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE1394 connection. The i.LINK connection may vary, depending on the software applications, operating system and compatible i.LINK devices. 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 an optical or hard disk drive, confirm their operating system compatibility and required operating conditions.
A 6-pin i.LINK port can:
supply power from the computer to the connected device if the device is equipped with a 6-pin connector.
supply 10V to 12V.
A 4-pin i.LINK port cannot supply power to a connected device.
Caution:
The total power supplied by the 6-pin i.LINK port cannot exceed 6 watts.
The following Sony i.LINK 400 Mbps cables are available and recommended for use with your computer: VMC-IL4415, VMC-IL4435, VMC-IL4615, VMC-IL4635, VMC-IL6615, and VMC-IL6635.
Sony computer supplies, accessories, and peripherals can be purchased from your local retailer, from the Sony VAIO Direct Web site at http://vaio.sonystyle.com, or by calling 1-888-315-7669 (toll free).
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Connecting an i.LINK (IEEE1394) device
1. Use the symbol to locate the i.LINK port on your compatible i.LINK device and on your computer. Plug the i.LINK cable connector into this port.
2. Plug the other end of the cable into the corresponding 4- or 6-pin i.LINK port on your computer.
Note:
See the instructions that came with your i.LINK device for more information on installation and use.
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System, Application And Driver Recovery CD(s)
System Recovery CD(s) Sony Electronics Inc.
The System Recovery CD utility enables you to restore the operating system and software that shipped with your computer if they become corrupted or are erased. It can be used only to restore the hard disk of the Sony computer you purchased.
Application Recovery CD(s) Sony Electronics Inc.
The Application Recovery CD program enables you to reinstall individual applications. Use it to restore corrupted or erased files.
Driver Recovery CD Sony Electronics Inc.
The Driver Recovery CD program enables you to reinstall individual device drivers. Use it to restore corrupted or erased files.
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To Use the System Recovery CD(s)
The System Recovery utility formats your hard disk drive and restores all the original software applications. Your computer is returned to the original factory settings.
Caution:
The System Recovery process removes all software that you may have installed since you started using your computer. Reinstall any applications that were not included with the computer when you purchased it.
If you experience a problem with your computer, reinstalling an individual application or device driver may correct the problem. You may not need to recover the entire contents of your hard drive.
Note:
Use the Application Recovery CD(s) to reinstall individual applications.
When you successfully complete your system recovery, you are prompted to complete the Windows registration process.
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System Recovery Options
System Drive Recovery
All data on Drive C is deleted. The factory default settings and software applications are restored on this drive only.
Change Partition Size
All partitions, custom installations, and changes are removed from the hard disk drive. You can set the partition sizes for both the Drive C and Drive D. The original, preinstalled operating system and software applications are restored.
Recovery to Original Factory Defaults
All data and partitions are removed from the hard disk drive. All original factory settings, operating system, and preinstalled software is restored.
Caution:
The System Recovery utility does not back up your system's data. If you wish to retain your system data, perform a back up to an external media.
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Using the System Recovery CD(s)
Your system may take a few minutes to load necessary files. A blue screen appears during the downloading process.
1. Insert the System Recovery CD in your computer's optical drive.
The System Recovery utility starts from the optical drive. The first CD must be in the drive when you turn on your computer.
Note:
If your system is equipped with two optical drives, insert the System Recovery CD into the upper optical drive.
2. Turn off your computer.
3. Wait 30 seconds and turn on your computer. Your screen displays the downloading progress, "Starting VAIO Recovery Utility."
4. The VAIO System Recovery Utility dialog box appears. Click Next.
5. At the pop-up prompt, select Yes to begin the system recovery process.
Follow the on-screen instructions.
Note:
Your system may include one or more System Recovery CDs. If you have more than one System Recovery CD, insert the first CD to run the System Recovery program. You are prompted to insert the next CD(s) once the information from the first CD has been installed.
The recovery process takes approximately 30 to 60 minutes to complete.
After recovering your system using the System Recovery CD(s), you may be prompted to insert your Application Recovery CD(s) after restarting Windows. Use the Application Recovery CD(s) to complete full restoration of your system.
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To Use the Application Recovery CD(s)
The Application Recovery CD utility enables you to reinstall individual software applications if they become corrupted or are erased. Reinstalling an individual software application may correct a problem that you are experiencing with your computer or specific application. You may not need to reinstall the entire contents of your hard drive.
Note:
If you need to reinstall all of the software that shipped with your computer, use the System Recovery CD(s).
You must be in Windows to run the Application Recovery CD utility. If you have any questions about using the Application Recovery CD(s), visit http://www.sony.com/pcsupport, or contact Sony Customer Support at 1-888-4-SONY-PC.
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Using the Application Recovery CD(s)
1. Turn on your computer. If your computer is already on, save and close all open applications.
2. When the Windows desktop appears, insert the Application Recovery CD into your computer's optical drive. The Application Recovery utility loads automatically.
Note:
If your system is equipped with two optical drives, insert the Application Recovery CD into the upper optical drive.
3. When the Application Recovery menu appears, follow the on-screen instructions to complete the recovery process.
Note:
Your system may include one or more Application Recovery CDs. If you have more than one Application Recovery CD, insert the first CD to run the Application Recovery utility. You may be prompted to insert the next CD(s), depending on the software application you wish to restore.
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To Use the Driver Recovery CD
The Driver Recovery CD utility enables you to reinstall individual drivers and repair software applications if they become corrupted or are erased. You can reinstall an individual driver to correct a problem that you are experiencing with your computer, peripheral hardware, or software application.
Note:
If you need to reinstall all of the software applications that shipped with your computer, use the System Recovery CD(s).
You must be in Windows to run the Driver Recovery CD utility.
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Reinstalling device drivers with the Driver Recovery CD
1. Turn on your computer. If your computer is already on, close all applications.
2. When the Windows desktop appears, insert the Driver Recovery CD into the optical disc drive.
Note:
If your system is equipped with two optical drives, insert the Driver Recovery CD into the upper optical drive.
3. Click Start in the Windows taskbar and click Control Panel. The Control Panel window appears.
4. Click Performance and Maintenance and click System. The System Properties dialog box appears.
5. From the Hardware tab, click Device Manager.
6. Click to select the unknown device or the device that requires the driver installation. The unknown device(s) is identified by a yellow question mark.
7. From the Action menu, click Uninstall. This removes the device driver from your system. Click OK. Repeat for each device driver as necessary.
8. Restart your computer. Click Start in the Windows taskbar, select Turn Off Computer, and then click Restart.
9. When the desktop appears, Windows automatically reinstalls the device driver(s) from the Driver Recovery CD.
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Troubleshooting
This section describes how to solve common problems you may encounter when using your computer. Many problems have simple solutions, so try these suggestions before you call Sony Customer Support.
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Topics
My computer does not start.
Check that the computer is plugged into a power source and that it is turned on. Check that the power light is lit on the front panel of the computer.
Confirm that a disk is not in the floppy disk drive (unless you are using a bootable floppy disk).
Confirm that the power cord and all cables are connected firmly.
If you plugged the computer into a power strip or Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS), make sure the power strip or UPS is turned on and working.
Check that the monitor is plugged into a power source and turned on. Check that the brightness and contrast controls are adjusted correctly. See the manual that came with your display for details.
Check that the computer is not in stand by mode.
My files are corrupted or deleted. I want to recover applications that came with my computer.
See To Use the Application Recovery CD(s) for more information.
My drivers are corrupted or deleted. I want to recover drivers that came with my computer.
See To Use the Driver Recovery CD for more information.
My computer or software application stopped responding.
You can try to locate and close the software application that has stopped responding.
1. Press the Ctrl+Alt+Delete keys. The Windows Task Manager window appears.
2. From the Applications tab, locate the application that has the status message, "Not responding."
3. Select the application that has a Not Responding status and click End Task. Windows attempts to close the application.
If your computer does not respond or the application does not close, try the following steps:
1. Save any open files, if possible.
2. Press the Alt+F4 keys. The Turn Off Computer window appears.
3. Click the Restart button.
If your computer still does not respond and you cannot restart, shut down your computer by pressing and holding the power switch for more than six seconds.
If the software application continues to stop responding or causes your computer to stop responding, contact the software publisher or designated technical support provider.
Caution:
Pressing and holding the power switch for more than six seconds, may result in the loss of data from files that are currently open.
Why does the Windows operating system stop responding during shutdown?
The Windows operating system may not shut down properly for many reasons, including incompatible or conflicting drivers, damaged files, or non-responsive hardware. For troubleshooting information, you can search Windows Help.
1. Click Start in the Windows taskbar and select VAIO Help and Support. The VAIO Help and Support dialog box appears.
2. Select Fixing a Problem and then select Startup and Shut Down problems. A list of specific problem topics appears on the right side of the dialog box.
3. Select Startup and Shutdown Troubleshooter. Follow the on-screen instructions according to your specific situation.
How do I change the parallel port type to ECP, EPP, or bi-directional?
You can change the parallel port type using the System Setup utility (CMOS Setup Utility). To access System Setup: Page 47
1. Click Start in the Windows taskbar and select Turn Off Computer. Select Restart.
2. When the Sony screen displays, press the F2 key on your keyboard.
3. Select the Advanced tab from the Setup Utility screen.
4. Select "I/O Device Configuration" and press Enter.
5. Use the arrow keys to highlight Parallel Port Mode and press Enter.
Note:
You can toggle between the Normal (bi-directional), EPP, ECP, and ECP+EPP options using the directional arrow keys.
6. Select the desired setting displays, and press Enter.
7. Press the F10 key to Save and Exit.
My optical drive tray does not open.
Use the Eject button
1. Make sure the computer is turned on.
2. Press the Eject button on the drive.
Use the My Computer icon
1. Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then select My Computer.
2. Right-click the appropriate optical drive icon.
3. Select Eject from the shortcut menu.
Note:
Avoid using adhesive labels to identify your CD media. Adhesive labels may come off while the CD media is in use in your optical drive(s) and may cause damage to the unit.
I cannot play a DVD or CD.
After inserting your optical disc, wait a few seconds for it to be detected before trying to access it.
Verify that the disc is in the tray with the label side facing up.
Install your CD or DVD software according to the manufacturer's instructions.
If your drive reads some DVDs or CDs, but not others, check the shiny side of the disc for dirt or scratches. You may also need to clean the disc drive lens with an appropriate cleaner.
Note:
To recover the CD or DVD software applications that are preinstalled on your computer, see To Use the Application Recovery CD(s) for more information.
I cannot play a DVD.
If a region code warning appears when you are using the DVD player application, it may be that the region code of the DVD you are trying to play is incompatible with the region code setting of your optical drive. A region code is listed on the disc packaging. Region code indicators such as "1" or "ALL" are labeled on some DVDs to indicate the type of player that can play the disc. Unless a "1" or "ALL" appears on the DVD or on its packaging,