Sony VPCX13A7E, User Manual

Page 1: ...N User Guide Personal Computer VPCX13 Series ...

Page 2: ...ch Pad 36 Using the Built in Camera 37 Using Memory Stick 38 Using Other Modules Memory Cards 45 Using the Internet 49 Using the Network LAN 50 Using the Wireless LAN 51 Using the Wireless WAN 56 Using the Bluetooth Function 60 Using Peripheral Devices 66 Connecting an Optical Disc Drive 67 Connecting External Speakers or Headphones 69 Connecting an External Display 70 Selecting Display Modes 72 U...

Page 3: ...ing Memory Stick 105 Handling the Built in Storage Device 106 Troubleshooting 107 Computer Operations 109 System Update Security 116 Recovery 118 Battery Pack 121 Built in Camera 123 Networking LAN Wireless LAN 125 Wireless WAN 128 Bluetooth Technology 129 Optical Discs 133 Display 134 Printing 137 Microphone 138 Speakers 139 Touch Pad 141 Keyboard 142 Floppy Disks 143 Audio Video 144 Memory Stick...

Page 4: ...g and communications to provide you with a state of the art computing experience External views illustrated in this manual may look slightly different from those of your computer How to find specifications Some features options and supplied items may not be available on your computer To find out about the configuration of your computer visit the VAIO Link web site at http support vaio sony eu ...

Page 5: ...IO computer 1 Printed Documentation Quick Start Guide An overview of components connection set up information etc Recovery Backup and Troubleshooting Guide Regulations Guarantee and Service Support Before activating the wireless functions such as the wireless LAN and Bluetooth technology read the Regulations Guarantee and Service Support carefully ...

Page 6: ...r your language 3 Select the guide you want to read You can manually browse to the user guides by going to Computer VAIO C your C drive Documentation Documentation and opening the folder for your language Windows Help and Support A comprehensive resource for practical advice tutorials and demonstrations to help you learn to use your computer To access Windows Help and Support click Start and Help ...

Page 7: ...ovides the possibility to ask questions to other VAIO users For product information you can visit our products web site at http www vaio eu or our online store at http www sonystyle europe com In case you need to contact VAIO Link have the serial number of your VAIO computer ready at hand The serial number is located on the bottom the back panel or inside the battery compartment of your VAIO compu...

Page 8: ...nt of you Keep your forearms horizontal with your wrists in a neutral comfortable position while using the keyboard or the pointing device Let your upper arms hang naturally at your sides Take frequent breaks while using your computer Excessive use of the computer may strain eyes muscles or tendons Furniture and posture Sit in a chair with good back support Adjust the level of the chair so your fe...

Page 9: ...level of the display as well Lighting Choose a location where windows and lights do not cause glare and reflection on the display Use indirect lighting to avoid bright spots on the display Proper lighting adds to your comfort and work efficiency Positioning an external display When using an external display set the display at a comfortable viewing distance Make sure the display screen is at or sli...

Page 10: ...g your VAIO computer Locating Controls and Ports page 11 About the Indicator Lights page 17 Connecting a Power Source page 18 Using the Battery Pack page 20 Shutting Down Your Computer Safely page 27 Using the Power Saving Modes page 28 Keeping Your Computer in Optimum Condition page 31 ...

Page 11: ...different from those illustrated in this manual due to variations in specifications Front A WIRELESS switch page 51 page 56 page 60 B Built in microphone monaural C Num lock indicator page 17 D Caps lock indicator page 17 E Scroll lock indicator page 17 F LCD screen page 100 G Power button Power indicator page 17 H Keyboard page 34 I Touch pad page 36 J Left button page 36 K Right button page 36 ...

Page 12: ...dicator page 17 B Built in MOTION EYE camera page 37 C Charge indicator page 17 D Disc drive indicator page 17 E WIRELESS indicator page 17 F SD memory card slot page 45 G Media Access indicator page 17 H Memory Stick Duo slot page 38 Your computer supports only Duo size Memory Stick ...

Page 13: ...13 n N Getting Started Locating Controls and Ports Back A Air vent ...

Page 14: ... before using the network LAN port When the port cover disengages The port cover may disengage if you exert pressure on it when opening it or disconnecting a LAN cable To attach the port cover align the cover with the edge 1 of the port and push the cover down until it clicks into place B Monitor port page 70 ...

Page 15: ...n N Getting Started Locating Controls and Ports Left A DC IN port page 18 B Security slot C USB ports page 75 D Headphones jack page 69 Compliant with the USB 2 0 standard and support high full low speeds ...

Page 16: ... and the monitor port When the tilt foot disengages The tilt foot may disengage if you exert pressure on it when unfolding it To attach the tilt foot push it down while aligning the snap fit joint 1 with the projections 2 until it snaps into place B Built in speaker monaural C SIM card slot page 56 D Battery connector page 20 E Air vent On selected models only ...

Page 17: ...ory card is not in use Disc drive Illuminates while data access to the built in storage device is in progress Do not place the computer into Sleep mode or turn it off while this indicator light is lit Num lock Press the Num Lk key to activate the numeric keypad Press it a second time to deactivate the numeric keypad The numeric keypad is not active when the indicator light is unlit Caps lock Press...

Page 18: ... pack as it may cause the computer to malfunction Using the AC Adapter While your computer is directly connected to an AC power source and has a battery pack installed it uses power from the AC outlet Use only the supplied AC adapter for your computer To use the AC adapter 1 Plug one end of the power cord 1 into the AC adapter 3 2 Plug the other end of the power cord into an AC outlet 2 3 Plug the...

Page 19: ...uter completely from an AC power source unplug the AC adapter from the AC outlet Make sure that an AC outlet is easily accessible If you do not intend to use your computer for an extended period of time place the computer into Hibernate mode See Using Hibernate Mode page 30 ...

Page 20: ...puter at the time of delivery but is not fully charged Do not use your computer without installing the battery pack as it may cause the computer to malfunction Installing Removing the Battery Pack To install the battery pack 1 Turn off the computer and close the LCD screen lid 2 Slide the battery LOCK switches 1 inward ...

Page 21: ...projection 2 on either side of the battery pack fits into the U shaped cut 3 on either side of the battery compartment 4 Push down the circled area on the battery pack illustrated below until the battery pack clicks into place 5 Slide the battery LOCK switches outward to secure the battery pack on the computer ...

Page 22: ...es 1 inward 3 Slide and hold the battery RELEASE latch 2 inward put your fingertip underneath the tab 3 on the battery pack and lift the battery pack in the direction of the arrow and then slide it away from the computer For your safety it is highly recommended that you use genuine Sony rechargeable battery packs and AC adapters that meet the quality assurance standard supplied by Sony for your VA...

Page 23: ...attery pack charges close to the maximum charge level you selected the charge indicator turns off Charge the battery pack as described in this manual from your first battery charge Charge indicator status Meaning Lit in orange The battery pack is charging Blinks along with the green power indicator The battery pack is running out of power Normal mode Blinks along with the orange power indicator Th...

Page 24: ...ium ion battery pack and can be recharged any time Charging a partially discharged battery pack does not affect the life of battery While some software applications or peripheral devices are in use your computer may not enter Hibernate mode even when the remaining battery life becomes short To avoid loss of data while the computer is running on the battery you should save your data frequently and ...

Page 25: ... or the duration of use of the battery pack extends To get the most out of the battery pack check the battery charge capacity and change the battery settings To check the battery charge capacity 1 Click Start All Programs and VAIO Control Center 2 Click Power Management and Battery Additionally you can enable the battery care function to extend the life of the battery pack ...

Page 26: ...hods Decrease the LCD brightness of your computer screen Use the power saving mode See Using the Power Saving Modes page 28 for more information Change the power saving settings on the Power Options See Using the VAIO Power Management page 91 for more information Set the wallpaper in Long Battery Life Wallpaper Setting as your desktop background with the VAIO Control Center ...

Page 27: ...t down your computer properly as described below To shut down your computer 1 Turn off any peripherals connected to the computer 2 Click Start and the Shut down button 3 Respond to any prompts warning you to save documents or to consider other users and wait for the computer to turn off automatically The power indicator light turns off ...

Page 28: ...loss of data you should save your data frequently Mode Description Normal mode This is the normal state of your computer while it is in use The green power indicator light is lit while the computer is in this mode Sleep mode Sleep mode turns off the LCD screen and places the built in storage device s and the CPU into a low power consumption mode The orange power indicator light blinks slowly while...

Page 29: ...ep mode Click Start the arrow next to the Shut down button and Sleep To return to Normal mode Press any key Press the power button on your computer If you press and hold the power button for more than four seconds your computer will turn off automatically You will lose all unsaved data ...

Page 30: ... keys Alternatively you can click Start the arrow next to the Shut down button and Hibernate Do not move your computer before its power indicator light turns off To return to Normal mode Press the power button If you press and hold the power button for more than four seconds your computer will turn off automatically ...

Page 31: ...fficiency security and functionality The VAIO Update automatically notifies you of new updates available on the Internet and downloads and installs them on the computer Windows Update Click Start All Programs and Windows Update and then follow the on screen instructions VAIO Update 5 Click Start All Programs and VAIO Update 5 and then follow the on screen instructions Your computer must be connect...

Page 32: ...nch the VAIO Care On models with the ASSIST button Press the ASSIST button while your computer is on On models without the ASSIST button Click Start All Programs VAIO Care and VAIO Care Do not press the ASSIST button while the computer is in Hibernate mode See the help file included with the VAIO Care for more information On models with the ASSIST button pressing the ASSIST button while the comput...

Page 33: ...O computer Using the Keyboard page 34 Using the Touch Pad page 36 Using the Built in Camera page 37 Using Memory Stick page 38 Using Other Modules Memory Cards page 45 Using the Internet page 49 Using the Network LAN page 50 Using the Wireless LAN page 51 Using the Wireless WAN page 56 Using the Bluetooth Function page 60 ...

Page 34: ...brightness control Changes the LCD brightness of your computer screen To increase lighting intensity keep pressing the Fn F6 keys or press the Fn F6 keys and then the M or key To decrease lighting intensity keep pressing the Fn F5 keys or press the Fn F5 keys and then the m or key Fn T F7 display output Switches the display output between your computer screen and an external display Press the Ente...

Page 35: ...he help file included with the VAIO Control Center for more information Fn F12 hibernation Provides the lowest level of power consumption When you execute this command the states of the system and the connected peripheral devices are saved to the built in storage device and the system power is turned off To return the system to its original state use the power button to turn on the power For detai...

Page 36: ... 4 once With many applications this action displays a context sensitive shortcut menu if any Drag Slide your finger on the touch pad while pressing the left button Scroll Slide your finger along the right edge of the touch pad to scroll vertically Slide your finger along the bottom edge to scroll horizontally Once vertical or horizontal scrolling is engaged you can move your finger in circles on t...

Page 37: ... the Skype you can make a video call through the Internet Turning on the computer activates the built in camera Video calls are possible with the appropriate software Launching or exiting your instant messaging or video editing software does not activate or deactivate the built in camera Do not place your computer into Sleep or Hibernate mode while you are using the built in camera ...

Page 38: ...d other devices Because it is removable it can be used for external data storage Before You Use Memory Stick The Memory Stick Duo slot on your computer can accommodate the following sizes and types of media Memory Stick Duo Memory Stick PRO Duo Memory Stick PRO HG Duo Your computer supports only Duo size Memory stick and does not support standard size Memory Stick For the latest information about ...

Page 39: ...9 n N Using Your VAIO Computer Using Memory Stick Inserting and Removing Memory Stick To insert Memory Stick 1 Locate the Memory Stick Duo slot 2 Hold Memory Stick with the arrow pointing toward the slot ...

Page 40: ...software If prompted follow the on screen instructions to install the software Memory Stick is automatically detected by your system and the contents of Memory Stick are displayed If nothing appears on the desktop click Start Computer and double click the Memory Stick icon The Memory Stick icon will appear in the Computer window after you insert Memory Stick into the slot Before using Memory Stick...

Page 41: ...e volumes of data may take time to load so make sure the indicator light is unlit before removing Memory Stick 1 Locate the Memory Stick Duo slot 2 Check that the Media Access indicator light is unlit 3 Push in Memory Stick toward the computer and release Memory Stick ejects 4 Pull Memory Stick out of the slot Be sure to remove Memory Stick gently or it may pop out unexpectedly ...

Page 42: ...atting the media make sure that it does not contain your valuable data Do not remove Memory Stick from the slot while formatting This could cause a malfunction 1 Locate the Memory Stick Duo slot 2 Carefully slide Memory Stick into the slot until it clicks into place 3 Click Start and Computer 4 Right click the Memory Stick icon and select Format 5 Click Restore device defaults The size of the allo...

Page 43: ...43 n N Using Your VAIO Computer Using Memory Stick 6 Click Start 7 Follow the on screen instructions It may take time to format Memory Stick depending on the media type ...

Page 44: ...n inserting or removing Memory Stick from the slot Do not force it in or out of the slot Inserting Memory Stick with multiple conversion adaptors is not guaranteed of compatibility MagicGate is the general name of the copyright protection technology developed by Sony Use Memory Stick with the MagicGate logo to take advantage of this technology Except for your personal use it is against the copyrig...

Page 45: ... slot to transfer data among digital cameras camcorders music players and other audio video devices Before you use the SD memory card The SD memory card slot on your computer can accommodate the following memory cards SD memory card SDHC memory card For the latest information on compatible memory cards see Finding More about Your VAIO Computer page 5 to visit the appropriate support web site ...

Page 46: ...Carefully slide the SD memory card into the slot until it clicks into place Do not force the card into the slot When you insert the SD memory card into the slot for the first time you may be prompted to install driver software If prompted follow the on screen instructions to install the software The SD memory card icon will appear in the Computer window after you insert the card into the slot ...

Page 47: ...mory Cards To remove an SD memory card 1 Locate the SD memory card slot 2 Check that the Media Access indicator light is unlit 3 Push in the SD memory card toward the computer and release The SD memory card ejects 4 Pull the SD memory card out of the slot ...

Page 48: ...orce it in or out of the slot Do not remove the memory card while the media access indicator light is lit If you do you may lose data Do not attempt to insert a memory card or memory card adaptor of a different type into the memory card slot An incompatible memory card or memory card adaptor may cause difficulty in removing from the slot and can cause damage to your computer Notes on using the SD ...

Page 49: ...ct your computer to the Internet ask your ISP To connect your computer to the Internet using the wireless LAN function you need to set up the wireless LAN network See Using the Wireless LAN page 51 for more information When you connect your computer to the Internet be sure to take appropriate security measures to protect the computer against online threats Depending on the service contract with yo...

Page 50: ...ork administrator You need to unfold the tilt feet before using the network LAN port on your computer You can connect your computer to any network without changing the default settings Do not plug a telephone cable into the network LAN port on your computer If the network LAN port is connected to one of the telephone lines mentioned below high electric current to the port may cause damage overheat...

Page 51: ... n standard which specifies the type of technology used See the specifications to find out about the configuration of your computer WLAN standard Frequency band Remarks IEEE 802 11a 5 GHz IEEE 802 11b g 2 4 GHz The IEEE 802 11g standard provides higher speed communications than the IEEE 802 11b standard IEEE 802 11n 5 GHz 2 4 GHz On models compliant with the IEEE 802 11b g n standard only the 2 4 ...

Page 52: ...y vary depending on the following conditions Distance between communication devices Existence of obstacles between devices Device configuration Radio conditions Ambient environment that includes existence of walls and materials of such walls Software in use Communications may be cut off depending on radio conditions Actual communication speed may not be as fast as the one displayed on your compute...

Page 53: ...ser authentication using 802 1X and Extensible Authentication Protocol EAP Data encryption protects the vulnerable wireless link between clients and access points Besides that there are other typical LAN security mechanisms to ensure privacy such as password protection end to end encryption virtual private networks and authentication WPA2 the second generation of WPA provides stronger data protect...

Page 54: ...e sure an access point is set up See the manual that came with your access point for more information 2 Turn on the WIRELESS switch 3 Click the VAIO Smart Network icon on the taskbar 4 Click the switch next to your desired wireless option s to toggle it to On in the VAIO Smart Network window Make sure the WIRELESS indicator light turns on 5 Click or on the taskbar 6 Select the desired access point...

Page 55: ...ireless LAN Communications To stop wireless LAN communications Click the switch next to Wireless LAN to toggle it to Off in the VAIO Smart Network window Turning off the wireless LAN function while accessing remote documents files or resources may result in data loss ...

Page 56: ...mputer to connect to the Internet through the wireless network wherever there is the mobile phone coverage The WWAN may not be available in some countries or regions Some features and options in this section may not be available on your computer See the specifications to find out about the configuration of your computer ...

Page 57: ...ht receive an offer from the VAIO selected telecom operator In that case the SIM card is either in the operator SIM pack inside the carton box or already inserted in the SIM card slot If the SIM card is not provided with your computer you can purchase one from your preferred telecom operator To insert a SIM card 1 Turn off your computer 2 Remove the battery pack from the computer For detailed inst...

Page 58: ...inted circuit side up Do not touch the printed circuit on the SIM card Be sure to hold your computer firmly before inserting or removing the card Do not damage the SIM card in any way either by bending or exerting pressure on the card 5 Reinstall the battery pack Make sure the battery pack is installed properly ...

Page 59: ...hat the switch next to Wireless WAN is On 4 Click the down arrow button next to the Wireless WAN switch and the Connect button to launch your connection manager software or the preinstalled software from a telecom operator depending on your model or country 5 Enter your PIN code when prompted 6 Click Connect For more information on how to use the wireless WAN function see the help file included wi...

Page 60: ...nology has an authentication function which allows you to determine with whom you choose to communicate With the authentication function you can prevent any anonymous Bluetooth devices from accessing your computer The first time two Bluetooth devices communicate a common passkey a password required for authentication should be determined for both devices to be registered Once a device is registere...

Page 61: ...ing the Bluetooth Function Communicating with Another Bluetooth Device You can connect your computer to a Bluetooth device such as another computer a mobile phone a PDA a headset a mouse or a digital camera without the use of any cables ...

Page 62: ... need to set up the Bluetooth function For setting up and using the Bluetooth function search Windows Help and Support for Bluetooth information 1 Turn on the WIRELESS switch 2 Click the VAIO Smart Network icon on the taskbar 3 Click the switch next to Bluetooth to toggle it to On in the VAIO Smart Network window Make sure the WIRELESS indicator light turns on ...

Page 63: ...uetooth Function Stopping Bluetooth Communications To stop Bluetooth communications 1 Turn off the Bluetooth device that is communicating with your computer 2 Click the switch next to Bluetooth to toggle it to Off in the VAIO Smart Network window ...

Page 64: ...ard and electromagnetic interference in the environment All Bluetooth devices must be certified to make sure that the applicable standard requirements are maintained Even if standards are met individual device performance specifications and operation procedures can vary Data exchange may not be possible in all situations Video and audio may not be synchronized if you play videos on your computer w...

Page 65: ... other devices depending on the manufacturer or the software version employed by the manufacturer Connecting multiple Bluetooth devices to your computer may cause channel congestion resulting in poor performance of the devices This is normal with Bluetooth technology and does not indicate a malfunction ...

Page 66: ...IO computer by using the various ports on the computer Connecting an Optical Disc Drive page 67 Connecting External Speakers or Headphones page 69 Connecting an External Display page 70 Selecting Display Modes page 72 Using the Multiple Monitors Function page 73 Connecting a USB Device page 75 ...

Page 67: ...upplied to your computer Connecting an Optical Disc Drive Be sure to connect an external optical disc drive to your computer before launching any preinstalled disc operation program Be sure to connect an external optical disc drive to an AC power source before using the drive Your computer only supports optical disc drives that run on the power directly supplied from an AC power source ...

Page 68: ...B port 2 you prefer to use 3 Plug one end of a USB cable 3 into the USB port and the other end to the optical disc drive See the manual that came with your external optical disc drive for detailed instructions on connecting the USB cable to the drive Disconnecting the drive while the computer is in a power saving mode Sleep or Hibernate may cause the computer to malfunction ...

Page 69: ...nect external sound output devices not supplied such as speakers or headphones to your computer To connect external speakers Make sure your speakers are designed for computer use Turn down the volume of the speakers before you turn them on Connect external speakers 1 to the headphones jack 2 i with a speaker cable 3 not supplied ...

Page 70: ...me features and options in this section may not be available on your computer Connecting a Computer Display or a Projector You can connect an external display such as a computer display or a projector to your computer You need to unfold the tilt feet before using the monitor port on your computer ...

Page 71: ...eet page 16 2 Plug the power cord 1 of your external display or the projector into an AC outlet 3 Connect the external display or the projector to the monitor port 2 on the computer with a display cable 3 If necessary connect the headphones jack on the projector and the headphones jack 4 i on the computer with a speaker cable 5 ...

Page 72: ... screen and the external display or projector at the same time depending on the type of your external display or projector Turn on the external display before turning on your computer To select a display mode with the Fn F7 keys You can select a display mode with the Fn F7 keys See Combinations and Functions with the Fn Key page 34 for more information To select a display mode from the display set...

Page 73: ...ortions of your desktop across separate displays For example if you have an external display connected to the monitor port your computer screen and the external display can function as a single desktop You can move the cursor from one display to the other This allows you to drag objects such as an open application window or a toolbar from one display to the other ...

Page 74: ...nter Sleep or Hibernate mode while you are using the Multiple Monitors function or the computer may not return to Normal mode If you set different colors on each display do not expand a single window across two displays or your software may not work properly 1 Right click on the desktop and select Screen resolution 2 Click the drop down list next to Multiple Displays select Extend these displays a...

Page 75: ...necting a USB Device You can connect a Universal Serial Bus USB device such as a mouse a floppy disk drive a speaker or a printer to your computer To connect a USB device 1 Choose the USB port 1 you prefer to use 2 Plug the USB device cable 2 into the USB port ...

Page 76: ...n Be sure to use a USB printer compatible with your version of Windows to print documents For information on how to remove a USB device see the manual that came with the device To protect your computer and or USB devices from damage observe the following When moving the computer with USB devices connected avoid exposing the USB ports to shock or impact Do not put the computer into a bag or carryin...

Page 77: ...cribes how to change the main settings of your VAIO computer Among other things you will learn how to use and customize the look of your Sony software and utilities Setting the Password page 78 Using Intel VT page 89 Using the VAIO Control Center page 90 Using the VAIO Power Management page 91 ...

Page 78: ...e computer User password Allows the standard users to change some of the BIOS setup options as well as to start the computer To set the user password you must first set the machine password Entry of the power on password will be prompted after the VAIO logo appears to start your computer If you forget the machine password the password needs to be reset and a fee will be charged To reset the passwo...

Page 79: ...owing the password Entry of the hard disk password will be prompted along with the power on password if set after the VAIO logo appears to start your computer If you forget the hard disk password or the keyboard fails which is critical to password entry no bypass is possible and the data stored on the built in storage device will not be accessible There is NO RESET of this password You will have t...

Page 80: ...Press the or key to select Security to display the Security tab select Set Machine Password and then press the Enter key 3 On the password entry screen enter the password twice and press the Enter key The password can be up to 32 alphanumeric characters long including spaces 4 Select Password when Power On under Security and press the Enter key 5 Change the setting from Disabled to Enabled 6 Press...

Page 81: ...does not appear restart the computer and try again 2 Enter the machine password and press the Enter key 3 Press the or key to select Security to display the Security tab select Set User Password and then press the Enter key 4 On the password entry screen enter the password twice and press the Enter key The password can be up to 32 alphanumeric characters long including spaces 5 Press the or key to...

Page 82: ...ne password and press the Enter key 3 Press the or key to select Security to display the Security tab select Set Machine Password and then press the Enter key 4 On the password entry screen enter the current password once and a new password twice and then press the Enter key To remove the password leave the Enter New Password and Confirm New Password fields blank and press the Enter key 5 Press th...

Page 83: ...r password and press the Enter key 3 Press the or key to select Security to display the Security tab select Set User Password and then press the Enter key 4 On the password entry screen enter the current password once and a new password twice and then press the Enter key To remove the password leave the Enter New Password and Confirm New Password fields blank and press the Enter key 5 Press the or...

Page 84: ...n the New password and Confirm new password fields enter the password for your account 6 Click Create password See Windows Help and Support for more information on the Windows password To change the Windows password 1 Click Start and Control Panel 2 Click User Accounts and Family Safety or User Accounts 3 Click User Accounts 4 Click Change your password 5 In the Current password field enter your c...

Page 85: ...e the Windows password 1 Click Start and Control Panel 2 Click User Accounts and Family Safety or User Accounts 3 Click User Accounts 4 Click Remove your password 5 In the Current password field enter the current password that you want to remove 6 Click Remove password ...

Page 86: ... Enter key The Hard Disk Password entry screen appears 3 Select Enter Master and User Passwords and press the Enter key 4 Select Continue on the warning screen and press the Enter key 5 Enter the master password twice and press the Enter key The password should be up to 32 alphanumeric characters long including spaces 6 Enter the user password twice and press the Enter key The password should be u...

Page 87: ... or key to select Security to display the Security tab select Hard Disk Password and then press the Enter key The Hard Disk Password entry screen appears 3 Select Change Master Password or Change User Password and press the Enter key 4 Enter the current password once and then a new password twice 5 Press the Enter key 6 Press the Enter key when the success message appears 7 Press the Esc key and t...

Page 88: ...ay the Security tab select Hard Disk Password and then press the Enter key The Hard Disk Password entry screen appears 3 Select Enter Master and User Passwords and press the Enter key 4 Enter the current password for Enter Current Hard Disk Master Password and press the Enter key 5 Press the Enter key without entering any letter for the remaining fields 6 Press the Enter key when the success messa...

Page 89: ...mputer and press the F2 key repeatedly until the VAIO logo disappears The BIOS setup screen appears If the screen does not appear restart the computer and try again 2 Press the or key to select Advanced 3 Press the M or m key to select Intel R Virtualization Technology or Intel R VT press the Enter key select Enabled and press the Enter key If the Advanced tab is not displayed in the BIOS setup wi...

Page 90: ...havior To use the VAIO Control Center 1 Click Start All Programs and VAIO Control Center 2 Select your desired control item and change the settings 3 Once finished click OK The setting of the desired item is changed For more information about each option see the help file included with the VAIO Control Center Some of the control items will not be visible if you open the VAIO Control Center as a st...

Page 91: ... set up power plans for running on AC or battery power to suit your requirements for power consumption The VAIO Power Management function is added to the Windows Power Options With this software application you can enhance the Windows power management functions to ensure better operation of your computer and longer battery life ...

Page 92: ...er is running on battery power To use the network LAN port with the Power saver power plan follow the steps in To change the power plan settings below and select Enable for the network LAN port on the VAIO Power Management tab To change the power plan settings 1 Click Change plan settings on the right of your desired power plan in the Power Options window Change the Sleep mode and display settings...

Page 93: ... damage Safety Information page 94 Care and Maintenance Information page 97 Handling Your Computer page 98 Handling the LCD Screen page 100 Using the Power Source page 101 Handling the Built in Camera page 102 Handling Discs page 103 Using the Battery Pack page 104 Handling Memory Stick page 105 Handling the Built in Storage Device page 106 ...

Page 94: ...on and over time could result in discomfort or burns Use only specified peripheral equipment and interface cables Power Source Do not place the AC adapter in contact with your skin Remove the AC adapter away from your body if it becomes warm and causes discomfort Do not place heavy objects on the power cord or this could cause a fire To disconnect the power cord pull it out by holding the plug Nev...

Page 95: ...period of time remove the battery pack from the computer to prevent damage to the battery pack If you have not used the battery pack for a considerable amount of time the remaining battery life may become short This is normal and does not indicate a malfunction The battery pack will gradually discharge over time even while not in use Connect the AC adapter to your computer and recharge the battery...

Page 96: ...96 n N Precautions Safety Information Memory Stick Keep Memory Stick and Memory Stick adaptors out of reach of children There is a risk of swallowing them ...

Page 97: ... out the cleaning cloth with no wrinkles on the keyboard before closing the LCD screen lid Built in Camera Clean the lens protection cover of the built in camera with a blower brush or a soft brush If the cover is extremely dirty wipe it off with a soft dry cloth Do not rub the cover as it is sensitive to pressure Discs Proper care of the disc is essential to its continuous reliability Do not use ...

Page 98: ...ht Excessive dust Moisture or rain Mechanical vibration or shock Strong magnets or speakers that are not magnetically shielded Ambient temperature of more than 35 C or less than 5 C High humidity Do not place electronic equipment near your computer The electromagnetic field of the equipment may cause the computer to malfunction Do not use your computer without installing the battery pack as it may...

Page 99: ... VAIO Computer page 5 To avoid losing data when your computer is damaged back up your data regularly Do not exert pressure on the LCD screen or its edges when opening the LCD screen lid or lifting your computer The LCD screen may be sensitive to pressure or added stress and exerting pressure may damage the screen or cause it to malfunction To open the computer hold the base with one hand and gentl...

Page 100: ... residual image disappears after a while You can use a screen saver to prevent residual images The LCD screen becomes warm during operation This is normal and does not indicate a malfunction The LCD screen 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 screen This is a normal result of...

Page 101: ...h other power consuming equipment such as a photocopier or a shredder You can purchase a power strip with a surge protector This device helps prevent damage to your computer caused by sudden power surges in an electrical storm for example Use the AC adapter supplied with your computer or genuine Sony products Do not use any other AC adapter as it may cause a malfunction ...

Page 102: ...e lens protection cover of the built in camera as it may cause scratches on the cover and such scratches will appear on the captured images Do not let the direct sunlight get into the lens of the built in camera regardless of your computer s power state as it may cause the camera to malfunction ...

Page 103: ...Fingerprints and dust on the surface of a disc may cause read errors Be sure to hold the disc by its edges and central hole as shown below Never affix an adhesive label to a disc This will affect the use of the disc and may result in irreparable damage ...

Page 104: ...peratures between 10 C to 30 C Lower temperatures require longer charging time While the battery pack is in use or being charged heat builds up in the battery pack This is normal and is not cause for concern You do not need to discharge the battery pack before recharging If the battery pack quickly runs out of power after being fully charged it may be reaching the end of its life and should be rep...

Page 105: ...ry Stick dry Do not use or store Memory Stick in a location subject to Static electricity Electrical noise Extremely high temperatures such as in a car parked in the sun Direct sunlight High humidity Corrosive substances Use the storage case supplied with Memory Stick Be sure to make a backup copy of your valuable data When using Memory Stick Duo do not use a fine tipped pen to write on the label ...

Page 106: ...the configuration of your computer To avoid damaging your hard disk drive Do not subject your computer to sudden movements Keep your computer away from magnets Do not place your computer in a location subject to mechanical vibration or in an unstable position Do not move your computer while the power is on Do not turn off the power or restart your computer while reading or writing data to the hard...

Page 107: ...f the problems still cannot be solved and you need assistance contact an authorized Sony service support center Some features and options in this section may not be available on your computer Computer Operations page 109 System Update Security page 116 Recovery page 118 Battery Pack page 121 Built in Camera page 123 Networking LAN Wireless LAN page 125 Wireless WAN page 128 Bluetooth Technology pa...

Page 108: ...108 n N Troubleshooting Touch Pad page 141 Keyboard page 142 Floppy Disks page 143 Audio Video page 144 Memory Stick page 146 Peripherals page 147 ...

Page 109: ...urned on If you are using an external display make sure it is plugged into a power source and turned on Make sure the brightness and contrast controls are adjusted correctly See the manual that came with your display for more information Unplug the AC adapter and remove the battery pack Wait three to five minutes Reinstall the battery pack plug the AC adapter and then press the power button to tur...

Page 110: ...rt your computer If your computer does not restart press the Ctrl Alt Delete keys and click the arrow next to the Shut down button and Restart If the Windows Security window appears click Restart If this procedure does not work press and hold the power button for more than four seconds to shut down your computer Unplug the AC adapter and leave the computer for about five minutes Then plug the AC a...

Page 111: ...elete keys and click the Shut down button If the Windows Security window appears click Shut Down If this procedure does not work press and hold the power button until the computer turns off Turning off your computer with the Ctrl Alt Delete keys or the power button may cause loss of unsaved data Unplug the AC adapter and remove the battery pack Wait three to five minutes Reinstall the battery pack...

Page 112: ...t work press and hold the power button until the computer turns off Turning off your computer with the Ctrl Alt Delete keys or the power button may cause loss of unsaved data What should I do if the charge indicator light is blinking fast and my computer does not start This problem could be due to the battery pack not being installed properly To solve this problem turn off your computer and remove...

Page 113: ...nter Onetime Password message appears and Windows will not start Press and hold the power button for more than four seconds to check that the power indicator light turns off Wait for 10 to 15 seconds then restart your computer and enter the correct password The password is case sensitive so be sure to check letters for the current case before you enter the password What should I do if my game soft...

Page 114: ...Enter key Why doesn t my screen turn off after the automatic turn off time has passed Some software applications or screen savers are designed to temporarily disable the feature of your operating system that turns off the computer screen or places the computer into Sleep mode after a certain period of inactivity To solve this problem exit the running software application s or change the current sc...

Page 115: ...s Aero is running Performance of your computer is not guaranteed while Windows Aero is running It is recommended you disable Windows Aero to ensure optimum performance To disable Windows Aero follow these steps 1 Right click on the desktop and select Personalize 2 Select themes other than Aero Themes ...

Page 116: ...st security threats such as viruses The Microsoft Windows operating system is preinstalled on your computer The best way to protect your computer against security threats such as viruses is to download and install the latest Windows updates regularly You can get important Windows updates by doing the following Your computer must be connected to the Internet to download the updates 1 Click Start an...

Page 117: ...McAfee SecurityCenter 2 Click the button located at the upper left corner of the window to update the software 3 Follow the on screen instructions to complete the updates When using the Norton Internet Security 1 Click Start All Programs Norton Internet Security and LiveUpdate or Norton Internet Security 2 Follow the on screen instructions to complete the updates See the help file included with yo...

Page 118: ... not supplied See the Recovery Backup and Troubleshooting Guide for more information How can I restore my computer system to its factory default settings There are two ways to recover your computer system from recovery media and from the recovery area See the Recovery Backup and Troubleshooting Guide for more information How can I reinstall the original software and drivers You can restore the pre...

Page 119: ... where the data for the system recovery is stored To check the volume of the recovery area follow these steps 1 Click Start right click Computer and select Manage 2 Click Disk Management under Storage in the left pane The volume of the recovery area and the total volume of the C drive are displayed in the Disk 0 row in the center pane ...

Page 120: ...not supplied restart the computer and press the F11 key repeatedly until the VAIO logo disappears 2 Press the M or m key to select VAIO Care Rescue and press the Enter key 3 Click Tools and Start advanced recovery wizard When the Do you need to rescue data message appears make a backup copy of your data if needed 4 Follow the on screen instructions until the Select recovery type window appears 5 S...

Page 121: ...e the battery pack Recharge the battery pack when The battery pack is running out of power and both the charge and power indicator lights blink You have not used the battery pack for an extended period of time When should I replace the battery pack A message prompting you to replace the battery pack appears when the battery pack reaches the end of its life You can check the battery charge capacity...

Page 122: ... to extend the life of your battery pack on the VAIO Control Center Check the settings on the VAIO Control Center What should I do if a message appears notifying of either incompatibility or the improper installation of the battery pack and my computer then enters Hibernate mode This problem could be due to the battery pack not being installed properly To solve this problem turn off your computer ...

Page 123: ...ate a malfunction If the problem persists restart your computer Why are captured images poor in quality The images captured under the fluorescent light may show reflections of light A dark portion in captured images may appear as a noise If the lens protection cover is dirty you cannot take a clear shot Clean the cover See Built in Camera page 97 Why is the video input from the built in camera sus...

Page 124: ...uter becomes unstable when it enters a power saving mode while the built in camera is in use If your computer automatically enters Sleep or Hibernate mode change the corresponding power saving mode setting To change the setting see Using the Power Saving Modes page 28 ...

Page 125: ...rol Panel 2 Click View network status and tasks under Network and Internet 3 Click Connect to a network to confirm that your access point is selected Make sure the encryption key is correct Make sure Maximum Performance is selected for Wireless Adapter Settings in the Power Options window Selecting any other option may result in a communication failure To change the settings follow these steps 1 R...

Page 126: ...Management tab For information on how to change the setting see Using the VAIO Power Management page 91 Why is the data transfer speed slow The wireless LAN data transfer speed is affected by distance and obstructions between devices and access points Other factors include device configurations radio conditions and software compatibility To maximize the data transfer speed move your computer away ...

Page 127: ...ption may result in a communication failure Follow the steps in What should I do if my computer cannot connect to a wireless LAN access point page 125 to change the settings What are channels Wireless LAN communication uses divided frequency bands known as channels Third party wireless LAN access point channels may be preset to different channels from Sony devices If you are using a wireless LAN a...

Page 128: ...LESS switch is on and the WIRELESS indicator light is lit on your computer Make sure the switch next to Wireless WAN is set to On in the VAIO Smart Network window Make sure that the Access Point Name APN is properly configured in your connection manager software If not contact your telecom operator to get the correct APN to use See the help file included with the connection manager software for mo...

Page 129: ...t when the devices are within 10 meters of each other What should I do if I cannot find the Bluetooth device I want to communicate with Check that the Bluetooth function of the device you want to communicate with is on See the other device s manual for more information If the device you want to communicate with is already communicating with another Bluetooth device it may not be found or it may no...

Page 130: ...on the operating system or the software in use Move your computer and Bluetooth devices closer to each other The 2 4 GHz band with which Bluetooth devices or wireless LAN devices work is used by various devices Although Bluetooth devices use the technology to minimize radio interference from other devices that use the same band such radio interference may cause slower communication speeds and shor...

Page 131: ...luetooth function when I log onto my computer as a user with a standard user account The Bluetooth function may not be available to a user with a standard user account on your computer Log onto the computer as a user with administrative rights Why can t I use the Bluetooth devices when I switch users If you switch users without logging off your system the Bluetooth devices will not work Be sure to...

Page 132: ...tep 3 is not displayed because there is no need to manually change the settings 1 Click Start and Devices and Printers 2 Right click the icon for the device that you want to connect using the A2DP and select Control 3 Click SCMS T Settings 4 Click No when the Connect to a device only if it supports SCMS T content protection message appears What should I do if the Bluetooth icon is not displayed on...

Page 133: ...ould I do if my external optical disc drive does not work properly Make sure that your external optical disc drive is connected to an AC power source and the USB port on your computer If it is not connected the external optical disc drive may not work properly ...

Page 134: ...g the Power Saving Modes page 28 for more information Make sure your computer is securely plugged into a power source and turned on and the power indicator light is lit If your computer is running on battery power make sure the battery pack is installed properly and is charged See Using the Battery Pack page 20 for more information If the display output is directed to the external display press th...

Page 135: ...lect Screen resolution 2 Click Advanced settings 3 Click the Monitor tab 4 Select True Color 32 bit under Colors Do not change the display resolution or colors while using video image software or playing DVDs as it may cause unsuccessful playback display or unstable system operations Additionally it is recommended you disable your screen saver before starting DVD playback If the screen saver is en...

Page 136: ...videos In such a case lower the resolution of the LCD screen To change the screen resolution follow these steps 1 Right click on the desktop and select Screen resolution 2 Click the drop down list next to Resolution 3 Move the slider up to increase or down to decrease the screen resolution You can check the total amount of the graphics and video memory available Right click on the desktop select S...

Page 137: ...er for more information If your printer is not functioning after your computer resumes from a power saving mode Sleep or Hibernate then restart the computer If the bidirectional communication functions are provided with your printer disabling the functions on your computer may enable printing Follow these steps 1 Click Start and Devices and Printers 2 Right click the printer icon and select Proper...

Page 138: ...teps 1 Close all open programs 2 Click Start and Control Panel 3 Click Hardware and Sound 4 Click Manage audio devices under Sound 5 On the Recording tab select your desired device for sound input and click Set Default How can I prevent microphone feedback Microphone feedback occurs when the microphone receives the sound from a sound output device such as a speaker To prevent this problem Keep the...

Page 139: ...ore information The volume may have been turned off by the Fn F2 keys Press them once again The volume may have been minimized by the Fn F3 keys Keep pressing the Fn F4 keys to turn up the volume loud enough to hear sound Check the Windows volume controls by clicking the volume icon on the taskbar Your sound output device may have been incorrectly configured To change the sound output device see H...

Page 140: ...operly connected and the volume is turned up loud enough to hear sound Make sure your speakers are designed for computer use If your speakers have a muting button set the button to off If your speakers require external power make sure the speakers are connected to a power source See the manual that came with your speakers for more information Check the Windows volume controls by clicking the volum...

Page 141: ...F4 keys do not work press the Windows key once and then the key several times select Restart with the M or m key and press the Enter key to restart your computer If your computer does not restart press the Ctrl Alt Delete keys select the arrow next to the Shut down button with the m and keys press the Enter key select Restart with the M or m key and press the Enter key to restart your computer If ...

Page 142: ...hese steps 1 Click Start and Control Panel 2 Click Clock Language and Region and then Change keyboards or other input methods under Region and Language 3 Click Change keyboards on the Keyboards and Languages tab 4 Change the settings as desired What should I do if I cannot enter certain characters with the keyboard If you cannot enter U I O P J K L M and so on the Num Lk key may be activated Check...

Page 143: ...y disk drive 2 Wait until the indicator light on the floppy disk drive turns off 3 Push the eject button to remove the disk and unplug the USB floppy disk drive from your computer 4 Reconnect the floppy disk drive by plugging the USB cable into the USB port 5 Restart the computer by clicking Start the arrow next to the Shut down button and Restart What should I do if I cannot write data to a flopp...

Page 144: ...e Play Windows Startup sound check box 5 Click OK How do I change the sound output device If you do not hear sound from the device connected to a port such as the USB port HDMI output port optical output port or headphones jack you need to change the device for sound output 1 Close all open programs 2 Click Start and Control Panel 3 Click Hardware and Sound 4 Click Manage audio devices under Sound...

Page 145: ...the detailed procedure see How do I change the sound output device page 144 Why do sound interruptions and or dropped frames occur when I play high definition videos such as those recorded with the AVCHD digital video camcorder Playing high definition videos requires substantial hardware resources such as CPU GPU or system memory performance on your computer During the video playback some operatio...

Page 146: ...es you want to keep 1 Copy the data from Memory Stick onto your built in storage device to save data or images 2 Format Memory Stick by following the steps in Formatting Memory Stick page 42 Can I copy images from a digital camera using Memory Stick Yes and you can view video clips that you have recorded with digital cameras that are compatible with Memory Stick Why can t I write data to Memory St...

Page 147: ...let Try using another USB port on your computer The driver software could be installed to the specific port you used the first time you connected the device See the manual that came with your USB device for more information You may need to install software before you connect the device Try connecting a simple low powered device such as a mouse to test if the port is working at all USB hubs may pre...

Page 148: ...s or registered trademarks of Intel Corporation Microsoft MS DOS Windows Windows Vista BitLocker Aero and the Windows logo are trademarks of Microsoft group of companies Blu ray Disc and the Blu ray Disc logo are trademarks of the Blu ray Disc Association The Bluetooth word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG Inc and any use of such marks by Sony Corporation is under li...

Page 149: ...Disk Corporation XMB and xross media bar are trademarks of Sony Corporation and Sony Computer Entertainment Inc PlaceEngine is a registered trademark of Koozyt Inc PlaceEngine was developed by Sony Computer Science Laboratories Inc and is licensed by Koozyt Inc AVCHD is a trademark of Panasonic Corporation and Sony Corporation All other names of systems products and services are trademarks of thei...

Page 150: ...s manual the software or other information contained herein or the use thereof 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 license agreement Sony Corporation is not liable and will not c...

Page 151: ... 2010 Sony Corporation n ...