Personal ComputerVAIO Pro 11/13 SVP1122/SVP1322

How to Use

Setup

VAIO computer

Power

Battery

Memory module

Network / Internet

Internet

LAN

Wireless LAN

Connections

Power

Battery

Display

HDMI

Peripheral device

CD/DVD/BD

Audio

Speakers

Headphones

Microphone

Optical digital output

Internet

LAN

Wireless LAN

BLUETOOTH

USB

Settings

VAIO computer

Power

Display

HDMI

Peripheral device

CD/DVD/BD

Audio

Speakers

Microphone

Optical digital output

Button

Recovery

Keyboard

Touch pad

Internet

Password

Memory module

BIOS

Memory card

Service and support

TPM

Encryption

Security

Playback

CD/DVD/BD

Backup / Recovery

VAIO computer

CD/DVD/BD

Button

Recovery

BIOS

Backup

Service and support

Built-in storage device

Partition

Security

VAIO computer

Internet

Password

BIOS

Service and support

TPM

Encryption

Other Operations

VAIO computer

Power

Battery

CD/DVD/BD

Keyboard

Touch pad

Camera

Memory module

USB

Memory card

Built-in storage device

Partition

Notifications

Read this first

VAIO computer

CD/DVD/BD

Care and maintenance

Important notice

Service and support

Product registration

Security

Troubleshooting

Hardware

Power

Battery

Display

HDMI

CD/DVD/BD

Audio

Microphone

Keyboard

Touch pad

Camera

LAN

Wireless LAN

BLUETOOTH

Password

BIOS

USB

Memory card

Software

Computer

Apps

Display

Software

Software

Software

Network / Internet

LAN

Wireless LAN

BLUETOOTH

Backup / Recovery

Recovery

Security

Password

BIOS

Peripheral Devices

USB

Printer

Notes on Adding and Removing Memory Modules (SVF143/SVF153)

Before adding or removing memory modules, read the following precautions thoroughly.

  • Your VAIO computer and memory modules use high precision components and electronic connector technology. To avoid invalidation of the warranty during your product warranty period, we recommend that:

    • You should contact your dealer to install a new memory module.

    • You should not install a memory module by yourself, if you are not familiar with upgrading memory on a computer.

    • You should not touch the connectors or open the memory module compartment cover.

  • For assistance, contact an authorized Sony service/support center. To find the nearest center or agent, see About Online Support Websites.

  • If you add or remove memory modules by yourself, your VAIO computer may result in malfunction or accident caused by breakage of slot and module, or connection mistake. In this case, repair fee will be charged.

  • Be careful not to injure your hands or fingers with sharp edges of the memory module, inner components, or circuit boards of your VAIO computer.

  • Be careful not to catch your fingers on any inner cables of your VAIO computer, as the cable may become loose or disconnected.

  • If your VAIO computer is turned on while liquid such as water or other foreign object remains inside, it may cause a fire. Be sure to remove any foreign objects and attach the memory module compartment cover before turning on your VAIO computer.

  • Sony does not guarantee that third party memory modules will work in your VAIO computer. For information on third party memory modules, consult the respective sales dealers.

  • Be sure to turn off your VAIO computer and peripherals and disconnect all attachments and connection cables before adding or removing memory modules. Failure to do so may cause damage to the memory module, your VAIO computer, or peripheral devices.

  • To prevent damage from electrostatic discharge to memory modules, follow the instructions below:

    • Do not work at a place that produces static electricity easily, such as on a carpet.

    • Before adding or removing memory modules, touch an external metal object from your VAIO computer to eliminate static electricity. Do not touch any metal parts inside the computer.

    • Do not open the memory module package before you are ready to install the module. The package protects the module from ESD (electrostatic discharge). To store the module, cover it with an antistatic bag or a sheet of aluminum foil.

  • When holding a memory module, do not touch the chips or electrical terminal of the module.

  • Do not insert a memory module into the slot facing in wrong direction. It may cause damage to the module or slot, or cause the circuit board to catch fire.

  • Use a screwdriver that matches the size of the screw (such as a miniature screwdriver).

  • Do not remove or loosen screws that are not specified to be removed.

Adding and Removing Memory Modules (SVF143/SVF153)

If you want to increase your computer’s speed or improve performance when running programs simultaneously, increase the amount of memory by installing optional memory modules.

Before you upgrade your computer’s memory, see Notes on Adding and Removing Memory Modules (SVF143/SVF153).

If you install memory modules into two or more slots, the dual-channel mode is enabled to help improve performance.

The type of module and the amount of memory installed on your computer may differ depending on the model.

  1. Turn off your VAIO computer and peripheral devices, disconnect the power cord and all connection cables, and remove the battery pack.

    See Removing the Battery Pack (SVF143/SVF153) for information on how to remove the battery pack.

  2. Wait for a while until your VAIO computer cools down.

    The inner parts of your VAIO computer may be hot just after turning off. Be careful to avoid burns while handling your VAIO computer in this state.

  3. Lay a clean cloth on a level, flat surface, place your VAIO computer on it as illustrated below. Remove the screws with a cross slot screwdriver to open the memory module compartment cover.

    The screw locations are indicated by the arrows in the illustration below.

    On some models, captive screws are used on the memory module compartment cover and cannot be detached from the cover.

    A protective sheet covers the memory module under the cover. Lift the sheet when installing/removing the memory module.

    Be careful not to lift the sheet so much that it is detached or folded back.

  4. Touch an external metal object to discharge static electricity.

    Do not touch any metal parts inside your VAIO computer.

  5. If there is no free slot, remove the currently installed memory module. Pull the latches in the direction of the arrows to pop up the module at an angle (1), then pull the module out in the direction of the arrow (2).

  6. Remove the new memory module from its antistatic bag.
  7. Hold the memory module by its edge and slide it into the memory module slot with its end terminal facing downward while aligning the notch on the module with the small projection in the slot.

  8. Hold the memory module by its edge and push in until it clicks into place as shown in the illustration.

    The latches on both sides of the slot snap into place to secure the module. Do not touch any ICs (black components) on the memory module.

  9. Replace the memory module compartment cover and secure it with the screws you removed in step 3.
  10. Install the battery pack and connect all connection cables and peripherals that you removed in step 1, and turn on the computer.
  11. Check that the amount of system memory has correctly changed.

    If the amount of indicated system memory is correct, memory module installation was successful.

    To check the system information, see Viewing the System Information.

Setting Up an Appropriate Work Environment

This topic describes where to or not to place your VAIO computer and ergonomic instructions.

Where to place your VAIO computer

When placing your VAIO computer, ensure that:

  • You have easy access to a power source and necessary ports.

  • You leave enough space around the computer.

  • The computer is placed on a flat surface that is wide enough and you can face the computer screen as you operate it.

  • You can place the computer in front of you where you can sit upright and keep your forearms parallel to the floor.

Where not to place your VAIO computer

Placing your VAIO computer in an inappropriate location may cause damage or a malfunction. Do not place the computer in a location subject to:

  • Direct sunlight

  • Magnetic items or sources

  • Heat sources, such as residential heating equipment

  • Excessive dust

  • High humidity

  • Poor ventilation

Note

  • The area around the air exhaust vent may become extremely hot while your VAIO computer is on. Be careful before touching the area.

  • Do not place any object near the air exhaust vent that may block the vent.

Hint

  • Your VAIO computer uses high-frequency radio signals and may cause interference to radio or TV reception. If this occurs, move the computer a suitable distance away from the radio or TV.

Ergonomic considerations

Whenever possible, you should attempt to take account of the following ergonomic considerations.

Furniture and posture

Sit in a chair with good back support. Adjust the level of the chair so your feet are flat on the floor. A footrest may make you more comfortable.

Sit in a relaxed, upright posture and avoid slouching forward or leaning far backwards.

Viewing angle of the computer screen

Use the screen tilting feature to find the best position. Make sure the computer screen is at or slightly below eye level when you are sitting in front of your VAIO computer. Adjust the brightness level of the display as well.

You can reduce eye strain and muscle fatigue by adjusting the tilt and brightness level of the computer screen to the proper position.

Lighting

Choose a location where windows and lights do not cause glare and reflection on the computer screen. Use indirect lighting to avoid bright spots on the computer screen. Proper lighting adds to your comfort and work efficiency.

Note

  • While adjusting the viewing angle, do not exert excessive pressure on your VAIO computer to eliminate a risk of mechanical damage.

Hint

  • The same considerations apply when you use an external display.

Notes on handling your VAIO computer

Observe the following to avoid malfunctions and damage to your VAIO computer.

  • Place your VAIO computer gently on a flat surface to avoid a mechanical shock.

  • Be sure to turn off your VAIO computer before moving the computer. Moving the computer that is turned on may cause a hard disk malfunction. Be sure to disconnect all cables connected to the computer before moving it.

  • Do not drop or hit your VAIO computer. Even a slight shock or vibration may cause a hard disk malfunction.

  • Do not place your VAIO computer in an unstable position.

Removing the Battery Pack (SVF143/SVF153)

Remove the battery pack from the battery compartment of your VAIO computer.

  1. Turn off your VAIO computer, disconnect the power cord and all connection cables, and close the LCD screen lid.
  2. Slide the battery LOCK switch to the unlock position.
  3. Slide and hold the battery RELEASE latch (), put your fingertip underneath the tab () on the battery pack, and lift the battery pack in the direction of the arrow.

  4. Slide the battery pack away from your VAIO computer.

Note

  • You will lose all unsaved data if you remove the battery pack while your VAIO computer is on or in Sleep mode and not connected to the AC adapter.

    Be sure to turn off the computer before removing the battery pack.

Shutting Down Your VAIO Computer

Properly shut down your VAIO computer to avoid losing unsaved data.

  1. Save your data and close all running software applications.
  2. Turn off any peripherals connected to your VAIO computer.
  3. Click(Start) and the Shut down button.

    After a short time, your VAIO computer automatically turns off and the green power indicator light turns off.

    Before closing the LCD screen lid, make sure the power indicator is off.

Note

  • An improper shutdown may cause loss of unsaved data or your VAIO computer to malfunction.

  • To disconnect your VAIO computer completely from an AC power source, turn off the computer, and then unplug the power cord from the AC outlet.

Charging the Battery Pack

The battery pack can be charged even while you are using your VAIO computer when the computer is connected to a power source. The charging time may vary depending on operating conditions.

Removable battery pack supplied models

  1. Install the battery pack into your VAIO computer. (See Installing the Battery Pack (SVF143/SVF153).)

  2. Plug your VAIO computer into an AC outlet. (See Connecting a Power Source.)

Built-in battery pack models

  1. Plug your VAIO computer into an AC outlet. (See Connecting a Power Source.)

Hint

  • The charging time varies depending on ambient temperature.

    Note that at a low ambient temperature, it takes longer time to charge the battery pack.

  • To check the removable or built-in battery status of your VAIO computer, click the battery icon, such as(on battery) or(plugged in), in the desktop notification area.

Turning On Your VAIO Computer

Turn on your VAIO computer to start Windows.

Carefully read the precautions in Notes on Using the Power Source before turning on.

  1. Install the battery pack on your VAIO computer. (Removable battery pack supplied models) (See Installing the Battery Pack (SVF143/SVF153).)
  2. Connect your VAIO computer to an AC outlet. (See Connecting a Power Source.)
  3. Lift the LCD screen lid.
  4. Press and hold down the(Power) button.

    The power indicator light turns on in green.

    Your VAIO computer is turned on, and Windows starts after a while.

Note

  • If you press and hold down the(Power) button for more than four seconds, your VAIO computer will not turn on.

    Press the(Power) button lightly, and release it immediately when the power indicator light turns on.

  • Do not use your VAIO computer without installing the battery pack as it may cause the computer to malfunction. (Removable battery pack supplied models)

  • When opening the LCD screen lid, do not hold the built-in camera as it may cause your VAIO computer to malfunction. (Built-in camera equipped models)

  • If you press the(Power) button with the LCD screen lid closed, your VAIO computer will not turn on.

Hint

  • By default, your VAIO computer automatically enters Sleep mode after a certain period of inactivity while the computer is connected to an AC outlet. See Using Sleep Mode for more information.

Installing the Battery Pack (SVF143/SVF153)

Install the battery pack into the battery compartment of your VAIO computer.

  1. Turn off your VAIO computer, disconnect the power cord and all connection cables, and close the LCD screen lid.
  2. Slide the battery LOCK switch () to the unlock position.

  3. Slide the battery pack diagonally into the battery compartment until the projection () on each side of the battery compartment fits into the groove () on each side of the battery pack.

  4. Turn the battery pack in the direction of the arrow and push the battery pack down into the compartment until it clicks into place.

  5. Slide the battery LOCK switch to the LOCK position to secure the battery pack on your VAIO computer.

Note

  • Make sure the battery LOCK switch is in the LOCK position before using your VAIO computer. Using the computer without locking the battery pack securely may cause the following: the battery pack comes away or the computer does not turn on or suddenly shuts down.

Connecting a Power Source

Connect your VAIO computer to an AC power source.

Carefully read the precautions in Notes on Using the Power Source before connection.

  1. Plug one end of the power cord () into the AC adapter ().
  2. Plug the other end of the power cord into an AC outlet ().
  3. Plug the cable from the AC adapter () into the DC IN port () on your VAIO computer.

Note

  • Do not plug more than one device into the same AC outlet.

  • The shape of the AC adapter varies depending on the model you purchased.

  • Make sure that the power plug is firmly plugged into your VAIO computer.

Hint

  • You can purchase a power strip with a surge protector to help prevent damage to your VAIO computer caused by sudden power surges (in an electrical storm, for example).

Removing the Battery Pack (SVF143/SVF153)

Remove the battery pack from the battery compartment of your VAIO computer.

  1. Turn off your VAIO computer, disconnect the power cord and all connection cables, and close the LCD screen lid.
  2. Slide the battery LOCK switch to the unlock position.
  3. Slide and hold the battery RELEASE latch (), put your fingertip underneath the tab () on the battery pack, and lift the battery pack in the direction of the arrow.

  4. Slide the battery pack away from your VAIO computer.

Note

  • You will lose all unsaved data if you remove the battery pack while your VAIO computer is on or in Sleep mode and not connected to the AC adapter.

    Be sure to turn off the computer before removing the battery pack.

Notes on Using the Battery Pack

Before using the battery pack, read the following precautions for correct use.

About the battery pack

Removable battery pack supplied models

  • The supplied battery pack is designed specifically for your VAIO computer.

  • For your safety, only use the supplied battery pack or an optional battery pack that is specified by Sony.

  • For safety reasons, battery charging may be suspended at higher or lower temperatures.

  • While your VAIO computer is connected to an AC outlet with the AC adapter, it runs on AC power, even if the battery pack is installed.

  • The battery pack is not fully charged at the time of delivery.

  • 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.

  • Do not use your VAIO computer without installing the battery pack as it may cause the computer to malfunction.

Built-in battery pack models

  • The battery pack built in your VAIO computer is not removable.

  • For safety reasons, battery charging may be suspended at higher or lower temperatures.

  • While your VAIO computer is connected to an AC outlet with the AC adapter, it runs on AC power.

  • The battery pack is not fully charged at the time of delivery.

  • 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.

About battery discharge

After battery charge, the battery pack will gradually discharge over time even while not in use. If it is left unused for an extended period of time, the battery power may be depleted. It is recommended that you recharge the battery pack before use.

About battery life

Battery life varies depending on usage and settings.

About battery deterioration and replacement

Removable battery pack supplied models

  • The battery pack is consumable. The capacity gradually declines through repeated cycles of recharging and discharging. As a result, the battery life becomes short even if it is fully charged and eventually the battery pack reaches the end of its life.

  • If the battery pack quickly runs out of power after being fully charged or it has reached the end of its life, replace it with a new one.

Built-in battery pack models

  • The battery pack is consumable. The capacity gradually declines through repeated cycles of recharging and discharging. As a result, the battery life becomes short even if it is fully charged and eventually the battery pack reaches the end of its life.

  • If the battery pack quickly runs out of power after being fully charged or it has reached the end of its life, replace it with a new one.

    Contact an authorized Sony service/support center and replace the battery pack with a new one specified by Sony.

When using the power saving mode

If the battery pack runs out during Sleep mode, all unsaved data before your VAIO computer enters Sleep mode will be lost and cannot be restored. Be sure to save all data before placing the computer into Sleep mode.

In Hibernate mode, all data and status (such as window position, size, etc.) are saved to the built-in storage device, so no data will be lost even if the battery pack runs out. If you cannot connect the computer to an AC power source for an extended period of time, place the computer into Hibernate mode.

When the battery pack is running out of power

If the battery pack runs out during your absence, power will be cut off and any data you are working on will be lost.

While your VAIO computer is running on battery power, save data frequently and manually place the computer into Hibernate mode if necessary.

Charging the Battery Pack

The battery pack can be charged even while you are using your VAIO computer when the computer is connected to a power source. The charging time may vary depending on operating conditions.

Removable battery pack supplied models

  1. Install the battery pack into your VAIO computer. (See Installing the Battery Pack (SVF143/SVF153).)

  2. Plug your VAIO computer into an AC outlet. (See Connecting a Power Source.)

Built-in battery pack models

  1. Plug your VAIO computer into an AC outlet. (See Connecting a Power Source.)

Hint

  • The charging time varies depending on ambient temperature.

    Note that at a low ambient temperature, it takes longer time to charge the battery pack.

  • To check the removable or built-in battery status of your VAIO computer, click the battery icon, such as(on battery) or(plugged in), in the desktop notification area.

Installing the Battery Pack (SVF143/SVF153)

Install the battery pack into the battery compartment of your VAIO computer.

  1. Turn off your VAIO computer, disconnect the power cord and all connection cables, and close the LCD screen lid.
  2. Slide the battery LOCK switch () to the unlock position.

  3. Slide the battery pack diagonally into the battery compartment until the projection () on each side of the battery compartment fits into the groove () on each side of the battery pack.

  4. Turn the battery pack in the direction of the arrow and push the battery pack down into the compartment until it clicks into place.

  5. Slide the battery LOCK switch to the LOCK position to secure the battery pack on your VAIO computer.

Note

  • Make sure the battery LOCK switch is in the LOCK position before using your VAIO computer. Using the computer without locking the battery pack securely may cause the following: the battery pack comes away or the computer does not turn on or suddenly shuts down.

Notes on Adding and Removing Memory Modules (SVF143/SVF153)

Before adding or removing memory modules, read the following precautions thoroughly.

  • Your VAIO computer and memory modules use high precision components and electronic connector technology. To avoid invalidation of the warranty during your product warranty period, we recommend that:

    • You should contact your dealer to install a new memory module.

    • You should not install a memory module by yourself, if you are not familiar with upgrading memory on a computer.

    • You should not touch the connectors or open the memory module compartment cover.

  • For assistance, contact an authorized Sony service/support center. To find the nearest center or agent, see About Online Support Websites.

  • If you add or remove memory modules by yourself, your VAIO computer may result in malfunction or accident caused by breakage of slot and module, or connection mistake. In this case, repair fee will be charged.

  • Be careful not to injure your hands or fingers with sharp edges of the memory module, inner components, or circuit boards of your VAIO computer.

  • Be careful not to catch your fingers on any inner cables of your VAIO computer, as the cable may become loose or disconnected.

  • If your VAIO computer is turned on while liquid such as water or other foreign object remains inside, it may cause a fire. Be sure to remove any foreign objects and attach the memory module compartment cover before turning on your VAIO computer.

  • Sony does not guarantee that third party memory modules will work in your VAIO computer. For information on third party memory modules, consult the respective sales dealers.

  • Be sure to turn off your VAIO computer and peripherals and disconnect all attachments and connection cables before adding or removing memory modules. Failure to do so may cause damage to the memory module, your VAIO computer, or peripheral devices.

  • To prevent damage from electrostatic discharge to memory modules, follow the instructions below:

    • Do not work at a place that produces static electricity easily, such as on a carpet.

    • Before adding or removing memory modules, touch an external metal object from your VAIO computer to eliminate static electricity. Do not touch any metal parts inside the computer.

    • Do not open the memory module package before you are ready to install the module. The package protects the module from ESD (electrostatic discharge). To store the module, cover it with an antistatic bag or a sheet of aluminum foil.

  • When holding a memory module, do not touch the chips or electrical terminal of the module.

  • Do not insert a memory module into the slot facing in wrong direction. It may cause damage to the module or slot, or cause the circuit board to catch fire.

  • Use a screwdriver that matches the size of the screw (such as a miniature screwdriver).

  • Do not remove or loosen screws that are not specified to be removed.

Adding and Removing Memory Modules (SVF143/SVF153)

If you want to increase your computer’s speed or improve performance when running programs simultaneously, increase the amount of memory by installing optional memory modules.

Before you upgrade your computer’s memory, see Notes on Adding and Removing Memory Modules (SVF143/SVF153).

If you install memory modules into two or more slots, the dual-channel mode is enabled to help improve performance.

The type of module and the amount of memory installed on your computer may differ depending on the model.

  1. Turn off your VAIO computer and peripheral devices, disconnect the power cord and all connection cables, and remove the battery pack.

    See Removing the Battery Pack (SVF143/SVF153) for information on how to remove the battery pack.

  2. Wait for a while until your VAIO computer cools down.

    The inner parts of your VAIO computer may be hot just after turning off. Be careful to avoid burns while handling your VAIO computer in this state.

  3. Lay a clean cloth on a level, flat surface, place your VAIO computer on it as illustrated below. Remove the screws with a cross slot screwdriver to open the memory module compartment cover.

    The screw locations are indicated by the arrows in the illustration below.

    On some models, captive screws are used on the memory module compartment cover and cannot be detached from the cover.

    A protective sheet covers the memory module under the cover. Lift the sheet when installing/removing the memory module.

    Be careful not to lift the sheet so much that it is detached or folded back.

  4. Touch an external metal object to discharge static electricity.

    Do not touch any metal parts inside your VAIO computer.

  5. If there is no free slot, remove the currently installed memory module. Pull the latches in the direction of the arrows to pop up the module at an angle (1), then pull the module out in the direction of the arrow (2).

  6. Remove the new memory module from its antistatic bag.
  7. Hold the memory module by its edge and slide it into the memory module slot with its end terminal facing downward while aligning the notch on the module with the small projection in the slot.

  8. Hold the memory module by its edge and push in until it clicks into place as shown in the illustration.

    The latches on both sides of the slot snap into place to secure the module. Do not touch any ICs (black components) on the memory module.

  9. Replace the memory module compartment cover and secure it with the screws you removed in step 3.
  10. Install the battery pack and connect all connection cables and peripherals that you removed in step 1, and turn on the computer.
  11. Check that the amount of system memory has correctly changed.

    If the amount of indicated system memory is correct, memory module installation was successful.

    To check the system information, see Viewing the System Information.

Before Using the Wireless LAN

You first need to establish wireless LAN communications between your VAIO computer and an access point (not supplied) before connecting the computer to the Internet using the wireless LAN.

Refer to Windows Help and Support and the manual that came with your access point for more information.

For a quick and easy connection to the wireless LAN

When the first time you connect your VAIO computer to the Internet using the wireless LAN at home or connect the computer to a public wireless network (hotspot), use VAIO Easy Connect that helps you establish a connection to the wireless LAN quickly and easily.

  1. Click(Start), All Programs, VAIO Easy Connect, and follow the on-screen instructions in the Easy Internet Connection Setup window.

Starting Wireless LAN Communications

You can establish wireless LAN communications between your VAIO computer and an access point (not supplied) using VAIO Smart Network. Before using the wireless LAN, make sure your access point is on and operating.

Read the instructions in Before Using the Wireless LAN for correct use.

  1. Click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Smart Network or click(the VAIO Smart Network icon) in the desktop notification area.
  2. Make sure each switch next to Wireless Functions and Wireless LAN is toggled to On.

    If it is set to Off, click it to toggle to On.

  3. In the VAIO Smart Network window, select a mode that suits your wireless LAN.

    Refer to the help file included with VAIO Smart Network for more information about operations.

  4. Clickor(the Network icon) in the desktop notification area.
  5. Select the desired access point and click Connect.

    After the connection is established, Connected appears in the selected wireless access point field.

    If you cannot find the desired access point, click(Refresh).

    If a security key entry window appears, enter the security key as required and click OK.

    Note that security keys are case-sensitive.

    See About a Security Key for a Wireless LAN for more information on security keys.

To check wireless LAN connection status

You can move the mouse pointer overor(the Network icon) in the desktop notification area to check the wireless LAN connection status, such as the access point currently connected to your VAIO computer.

Note

  • On IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n equipped models, when only the 2.4 GHz wireless LAN function is enabled, your VAIO computer cannot connect to a 5 GHz wireless LAN access point. Also, when only the 5 GHz wireless LAN function is enabled, the computer cannot connect to a 2.4 GHz wireless LAN access point.

    On IEEE 802.11b/g/n equipped models, when the 2.4 GHz wireless LAN function is disabled, the computer cannot connect to an access point. Also, the computer cannot connect to a 5 GHz wireless LAN access point.

  • It may take some time to find and connect to a wireless LAN access point before starting communications via the wireless LAN.

Hint

  • Once you connect your VAIO computer to the access point by entering the security key, the access point will be registered in the computer. You do not have to enter the security key for subsequent connections.

Using the Antivirus Software for Your VAIO Computer

Protect your VAIO computer against computer viruses by using the antivirus software.

You can keep the antivirus software current with the latest updates by downloading and installing the updates from the website of the software publisher. To update the antivirus software, find the antivirus software installed on your VAIO computer from the following and follow these steps.

  1. Make sure your VAIO computer is connected to the Internet.
  2. Perform any of these operations according to the preinstalled antivirus app.

    For Trend Micro:

    Click(Start), All Programs, Trend Micro Titanium Maximum Security, and Trend Micro Titanium Maximum Security.

    For McAfee:

    Click(Start), All Programs, McAfee, and McAfee Internet Security or McAfee Total Protection.

    For Kaspersky Internet Security:

    Click(Start), All Programs, Kaspersky Internet Security, and Kaspersky Internet Security.

  3. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Note

  • The actual procedure may be different from the above depending on the version of the software installed on your VAIO computer. In such a case, follow the on-screen instructions.

Hint

  • Refer to the help file included with your software for more information.

Stopping Wireless LAN Communications

Stop wireless LAN communications using VAIO Smart Network.

  1. Click the switch next to Wireless LAN to toggle it to Off in the VAIO Smart Network window.

    The wireless LAN function is disabled.

Note

  • Do not disable the wireless LAN function while accessing remote documents, files, or resources, as it may result in data loss.

Notes on Using the Wireless LAN Function

Before using the wireless LAN function, read the following precautions for correct use.

  • In some countries or regions, using the wireless LAN products may be restricted by the local regulations.

  • Wireless LAN devices work on the 2.4 GHz band, which is used by a variety of devices. Wireless LAN devices use the technology to minimize radio interference from other devices that use the same band; however, radio interference may still slow communication speeds, reduce communication range, or cause communication failure.

  • If both the BLUETOOTH function and the 2.4 GHz wireless LAN function of your VAIO computer are enabled, interference may occur and cause slower communication speeds or other problems.

  • To communicate via a wireless LAN while you are on the road, you may need to contract with a wireless LAN connection service provider.

  • If your VAIO computer is equipped with the IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n standard, outdoor use of the 5 GHz wireless LAN function is prohibited by law.

  • The communication speed and range may vary depending on the following conditions:

    • Distance between devices

    • Existence of obstacles between devices

    • Device configuration

    • Radio conditions

    • Ambient environment (including wall material, etc.)

    • Software in use

      Communications may be cut off depending on radio conditions.

  • The data transfer rate specified in the specification is the theoretical maximum, and may not reflect actual data transfer rate.

  • Actual communication speed may not be as fast as the one displayed on your VAIO computer.

  • The 2.4 GHz wireless LAN and 5 GHz wireless LAN frequency bands are not communicable with one another.

  • The data transfer rate of IEEE 802.11g and IEEE 802.11n (2.4 GHz) may be affected by interference when used with an IEEE 802.11b product. Also, IEEE 802.11g and IEEE 802.11n automatically lower the transfer rate to maintain compatibility with an IEEE 802.11b product. The transfer rate may be regained by changing the channel settings of your access point.

  • On models with the Windows 7 Starter operating system, you cannot use ad-hoc connections of the wireless LAN function.

  • The IEEE 802.11a standard and the IEEE 802.11n standard are not available on ad-hoc networks.

  • To stop the wireless LAN function abruptly, turn off your VAIO computer.

  • The WLAN standard includes the encryption methods: Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP), which is a security protocol, Wi-Fi Protected Access 2 (WPA2), and Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA). Proposed jointly by the IEEE and Wi-Fi Alliance, both WPA2 and WPA are specifications of standards based on interoperable security enhancements that increase the level of data protection and access control for existing Wi-Fi networks. WPA is designed to be forward compatible with the IEEE 802.11i specification. It utilizes the enhanced data encryption Temporal Key Integrity Protocol (TKIP) in addition to user 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 protection and network access control and is also designed to secure all versions of 802.11 devices, including 802.11b, 802.11a, 802.11g, and 802.11n standards, multi-band and multi-mode. In addition, based on the ratified IEEE 802.11i standard, WPA2 provides government grade security by implementing the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) FIPS 140-2 compliant AES encryption algorithm and 802.1X-based authentication. WPA2 is backward compatible with WPA.

About the Internet Connection Services

The following types of Internet connection services are available.

You can select from among the services according to your preference, for example, communication speed or a usage fee. For detailed information on a variety of connection services, contact Internet Service Providers (ISPs).

  • Fiber to the Home (FTTH)

  • Cable modem

  • Digital Subscriber Line (DSL)

  • Satellite

  • Dial-up

About the Wireless LAN Standards

The Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) allows your VAIO computer to connect to a network through a wireless connection.

The WLAN uses the following IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n standard, which specifies the type of technology used.

Refer to the specifications to find out about the configuration of the computer.

IEEE 802.11a (Frequency band: 5 GHz)

Exclusive to models compliant with the IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n standard.

IEEE 802.11b/g (Frequency band: 2.4 GHz)

The IEEE 802.11g standard provides higher-speed communications than the IEEE 802.11b.

IEEE 802.11n (Frequency band: 2.4 GHz/5 GHz)

For models compliant with the IEEE 802.11b/g/n standard, only 2.4 GHz band can be used.

Connecting to the Internet with a Wired Connection (LAN port equipped models)

Before using the Internet, you need to sign up with an Internet Service Provider (ISP) and set up devices required for connecting your VAIO computer to the Internet.

Connect one end of a LAN cable (not supplied) to the LAN port on your VAIO computer and the other end to your network.

Note

  • For detailed information on devices required for Internet access and how to connect your VAIO computer to the Internet, ask your ISP.

  • When connecting your VAIO computer to the Internet, be sure to use a cable with network or Ethernet printed on it.

  • Do not plug a telephone cable into the LAN port on your VAIO computer.

    If the computer is connected to the one of the networks or the LAN port is connected to the telephone lines mentioned below, high electric current to the port may cause damage, overheating, or fire.

    • Any network, except 1000BASE-T/100BASE-TX/10BASE-T type networks

    • Public telephone subscriber line

    • Private branch exchange (PBX)

    • Home (intercom speakerphone) or business-use telephone lines (multi-line business telephone)

Hint

  • To connect your VAIO computer to the Internet using the wireless LAN function, you need to set up the wireless LAN network. See Starting Wireless LAN Communications for more information.

About the Network (LAN)

The network (LAN) enables you to connect your VAIO computer to the Internet and transfer data between the computer and other devices.

You can connect your VAIO computer to 1000BASE-T/100BASE-TX/10BASE-T type networks with a LAN cable (not supplied). Connect one end of a LAN cable to the LAN port on the computer and the other end to your network. (LAN port equipped models)

For information on peripheral devices required for LAN access, ask your Internet Service Provider (ISP) or refer to the manual that came with your modem.

For information on how to connect your VAIO computer to the network, refer to your ISP’s instructions or the manual that came with the modem and other peripheral devices. If you require information on the network settings at your workplace, ask the network administrator.

About a Security Key for a Wireless LAN

A security key is a security protocol for a wireless LAN that encrypts data transmitted on the wireless LAN. It is also referred to as an encryption key or a WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) key.

The security key allows wireless devices that have the same key, such as a wireless LAN access point and a computer, to communicate with each other on the wireless LAN.

The security key is assigned to each access point by default. (Make sure the default security key has been changed to protect data from unauthorized use.) If you cannot find the default security key, refer to the manual that came with your access point.

If you enter a wrong security key, follow these steps to re-enter the security key.

  1. Click(Start) and Control Panel.

  2. Click Network and Internet and Network and Sharing Center.

  3. Click Manage wireless networks in the left pane.

  4. Right-click the desired network in the Networks you can view and modify list, and then click Properties.

  5. Click the Security tab.

  6. Enter a security key in the Network security key field and click OK.

About the Internet Connection Services

The following types of Internet connection services are available.

You can select from among the services according to your preference, for example, communication speed or a usage fee. For detailed information on a variety of connection services, contact Internet Service Providers (ISPs).

  • Fiber to the Home (FTTH)

  • Cable modem

  • Digital Subscriber Line (DSL)

  • Satellite

  • Dial-up

About the Wireless LAN Standards

The Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) allows your VAIO computer to connect to a network through a wireless connection.

The WLAN uses the following IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n standard, which specifies the type of technology used.

Refer to the specifications to find out about the configuration of the computer.

IEEE 802.11a (Frequency band: 5 GHz)

Exclusive to models compliant with the IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n standard.

IEEE 802.11b/g (Frequency band: 2.4 GHz)

The IEEE 802.11g standard provides higher-speed communications than the IEEE 802.11b.

IEEE 802.11n (Frequency band: 2.4 GHz/5 GHz)

For models compliant with the IEEE 802.11b/g/n standard, only 2.4 GHz band can be used.

Connecting to the Internet with a Wired Connection (LAN port equipped models)

Before using the Internet, you need to sign up with an Internet Service Provider (ISP) and set up devices required for connecting your VAIO computer to the Internet.

Connect one end of a LAN cable (not supplied) to the LAN port on your VAIO computer and the other end to your network.

Note

  • For detailed information on devices required for Internet access and how to connect your VAIO computer to the Internet, ask your ISP.

  • When connecting your VAIO computer to the Internet, be sure to use a cable with network or Ethernet printed on it.

  • Do not plug a telephone cable into the LAN port on your VAIO computer.

    If the computer is connected to the one of the networks or the LAN port is connected to the telephone lines mentioned below, high electric current to the port may cause damage, overheating, or fire.

    • Any network, except 1000BASE-T/100BASE-TX/10BASE-T type networks

    • Public telephone subscriber line

    • Private branch exchange (PBX)

    • Home (intercom speakerphone) or business-use telephone lines (multi-line business telephone)

Hint

  • To connect your VAIO computer to the Internet using the wireless LAN function, you need to set up the wireless LAN network. See Starting Wireless LAN Communications for more information.

About the Network (LAN)

The network (LAN) enables you to connect your VAIO computer to the Internet and transfer data between the computer and other devices.

You can connect your VAIO computer to 1000BASE-T/100BASE-TX/10BASE-T type networks with a LAN cable (not supplied). Connect one end of a LAN cable to the LAN port on the computer and the other end to your network. (LAN port equipped models)

For information on peripheral devices required for LAN access, ask your Internet Service Provider (ISP) or refer to the manual that came with your modem.

For information on how to connect your VAIO computer to the network, refer to your ISP’s instructions or the manual that came with the modem and other peripheral devices. If you require information on the network settings at your workplace, ask the network administrator.

Before Using the Wireless LAN

You first need to establish wireless LAN communications between your VAIO computer and an access point (not supplied) before connecting the computer to the Internet using the wireless LAN.

Refer to Windows Help and Support and the manual that came with your access point for more information.

For a quick and easy connection to the wireless LAN

When the first time you connect your VAIO computer to the Internet using the wireless LAN at home or connect the computer to a public wireless network (hotspot), use VAIO Easy Connect that helps you establish a connection to the wireless LAN quickly and easily.

  1. Click(Start), All Programs, VAIO Easy Connect, and follow the on-screen instructions in the Easy Internet Connection Setup window.

Starting Wireless LAN Communications

You can establish wireless LAN communications between your VAIO computer and an access point (not supplied) using VAIO Smart Network. Before using the wireless LAN, make sure your access point is on and operating.

Read the instructions in Before Using the Wireless LAN for correct use.

  1. Click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Smart Network or click(the VAIO Smart Network icon) in the desktop notification area.
  2. Make sure each switch next to Wireless Functions and Wireless LAN is toggled to On.

    If it is set to Off, click it to toggle to On.

  3. In the VAIO Smart Network window, select a mode that suits your wireless LAN.

    Refer to the help file included with VAIO Smart Network for more information about operations.

  4. Clickor(the Network icon) in the desktop notification area.
  5. Select the desired access point and click Connect.

    After the connection is established, Connected appears in the selected wireless access point field.

    If you cannot find the desired access point, click(Refresh).

    If a security key entry window appears, enter the security key as required and click OK.

    Note that security keys are case-sensitive.

    See About a Security Key for a Wireless LAN for more information on security keys.

To check wireless LAN connection status

You can move the mouse pointer overor(the Network icon) in the desktop notification area to check the wireless LAN connection status, such as the access point currently connected to your VAIO computer.

Note

  • On IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n equipped models, when only the 2.4 GHz wireless LAN function is enabled, your VAIO computer cannot connect to a 5 GHz wireless LAN access point. Also, when only the 5 GHz wireless LAN function is enabled, the computer cannot connect to a 2.4 GHz wireless LAN access point.

    On IEEE 802.11b/g/n equipped models, when the 2.4 GHz wireless LAN function is disabled, the computer cannot connect to an access point. Also, the computer cannot connect to a 5 GHz wireless LAN access point.

  • It may take some time to find and connect to a wireless LAN access point before starting communications via the wireless LAN.

Hint

  • Once you connect your VAIO computer to the access point by entering the security key, the access point will be registered in the computer. You do not have to enter the security key for subsequent connections.

Stopping Wireless LAN Communications

Stop wireless LAN communications using VAIO Smart Network.

  1. Click the switch next to Wireless LAN to toggle it to Off in the VAIO Smart Network window.

    The wireless LAN function is disabled.

Note

  • Do not disable the wireless LAN function while accessing remote documents, files, or resources, as it may result in data loss.

Notes on Using the Wireless LAN Function

Before using the wireless LAN function, read the following precautions for correct use.

  • In some countries or regions, using the wireless LAN products may be restricted by the local regulations.

  • Wireless LAN devices work on the 2.4 GHz band, which is used by a variety of devices. Wireless LAN devices use the technology to minimize radio interference from other devices that use the same band; however, radio interference may still slow communication speeds, reduce communication range, or cause communication failure.

  • If both the BLUETOOTH function and the 2.4 GHz wireless LAN function of your VAIO computer are enabled, interference may occur and cause slower communication speeds or other problems.

  • To communicate via a wireless LAN while you are on the road, you may need to contract with a wireless LAN connection service provider.

  • If your VAIO computer is equipped with the IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n standard, outdoor use of the 5 GHz wireless LAN function is prohibited by law.

  • The communication speed and range may vary depending on the following conditions:

    • Distance between devices

    • Existence of obstacles between devices

    • Device configuration

    • Radio conditions

    • Ambient environment (including wall material, etc.)

    • Software in use

      Communications may be cut off depending on radio conditions.

  • The data transfer rate specified in the specification is the theoretical maximum, and may not reflect actual data transfer rate.

  • Actual communication speed may not be as fast as the one displayed on your VAIO computer.

  • The 2.4 GHz wireless LAN and 5 GHz wireless LAN frequency bands are not communicable with one another.

  • The data transfer rate of IEEE 802.11g and IEEE 802.11n (2.4 GHz) may be affected by interference when used with an IEEE 802.11b product. Also, IEEE 802.11g and IEEE 802.11n automatically lower the transfer rate to maintain compatibility with an IEEE 802.11b product. The transfer rate may be regained by changing the channel settings of your access point.

  • On models with the Windows 7 Starter operating system, you cannot use ad-hoc connections of the wireless LAN function.

  • The IEEE 802.11a standard and the IEEE 802.11n standard are not available on ad-hoc networks.

  • To stop the wireless LAN function abruptly, turn off your VAIO computer.

  • The WLAN standard includes the encryption methods: Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP), which is a security protocol, Wi-Fi Protected Access 2 (WPA2), and Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA). Proposed jointly by the IEEE and Wi-Fi Alliance, both WPA2 and WPA are specifications of standards based on interoperable security enhancements that increase the level of data protection and access control for existing Wi-Fi networks. WPA is designed to be forward compatible with the IEEE 802.11i specification. It utilizes the enhanced data encryption Temporal Key Integrity Protocol (TKIP) in addition to user 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 protection and network access control and is also designed to secure all versions of 802.11 devices, including 802.11b, 802.11a, 802.11g, and 802.11n standards, multi-band and multi-mode. In addition, based on the ratified IEEE 802.11i standard, WPA2 provides government grade security by implementing the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) FIPS 140-2 compliant AES encryption algorithm and 802.1X-based authentication. WPA2 is backward compatible with WPA.

About the Internet Connection Services

The following types of Internet connection services are available.

You can select from among the services according to your preference, for example, communication speed or a usage fee. For detailed information on a variety of connection services, contact Internet Service Providers (ISPs).

  • Fiber to the Home (FTTH)

  • Cable modem

  • Digital Subscriber Line (DSL)

  • Satellite

  • Dial-up

About the Wireless LAN Standards

The Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) allows your VAIO computer to connect to a network through a wireless connection.

The WLAN uses the following IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n standard, which specifies the type of technology used.

Refer to the specifications to find out about the configuration of the computer.

IEEE 802.11a (Frequency band: 5 GHz)

Exclusive to models compliant with the IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n standard.

IEEE 802.11b/g (Frequency band: 2.4 GHz)

The IEEE 802.11g standard provides higher-speed communications than the IEEE 802.11b.

IEEE 802.11n (Frequency band: 2.4 GHz/5 GHz)

For models compliant with the IEEE 802.11b/g/n standard, only 2.4 GHz band can be used.

About a Security Key for a Wireless LAN

A security key is a security protocol for a wireless LAN that encrypts data transmitted on the wireless LAN. It is also referred to as an encryption key or a WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) key.

The security key allows wireless devices that have the same key, such as a wireless LAN access point and a computer, to communicate with each other on the wireless LAN.

The security key is assigned to each access point by default. (Make sure the default security key has been changed to protect data from unauthorized use.) If you cannot find the default security key, refer to the manual that came with your access point.

If you enter a wrong security key, follow these steps to re-enter the security key.

  1. Click(Start) and Control Panel.

  2. Click Network and Internet and Network and Sharing Center.

  3. Click Manage wireless networks in the left pane.

  4. Right-click the desired network in the Networks you can view and modify list, and then click Properties.

  5. Click the Security tab.

  6. Enter a security key in the Network security key field and click OK.

Removing the Battery Pack (SVF143/SVF153)

Remove the battery pack from the battery compartment of your VAIO computer.

  1. Turn off your VAIO computer, disconnect the power cord and all connection cables, and close the LCD screen lid.
  2. Slide the battery LOCK switch to the unlock position.
  3. Slide and hold the battery RELEASE latch (), put your fingertip underneath the tab () on the battery pack, and lift the battery pack in the direction of the arrow.

  4. Slide the battery pack away from your VAIO computer.

Note

  • You will lose all unsaved data if you remove the battery pack while your VAIO computer is on or in Sleep mode and not connected to the AC adapter.

    Be sure to turn off the computer before removing the battery pack.

Installing the Battery Pack (SVF143/SVF153)

Install the battery pack into the battery compartment of your VAIO computer.

  1. Turn off your VAIO computer, disconnect the power cord and all connection cables, and close the LCD screen lid.
  2. Slide the battery LOCK switch () to the unlock position.

  3. Slide the battery pack diagonally into the battery compartment until the projection () on each side of the battery compartment fits into the groove () on each side of the battery pack.

  4. Turn the battery pack in the direction of the arrow and push the battery pack down into the compartment until it clicks into place.

  5. Slide the battery LOCK switch to the LOCK position to secure the battery pack on your VAIO computer.

Note

  • Make sure the battery LOCK switch is in the LOCK position before using your VAIO computer. Using the computer without locking the battery pack securely may cause the following: the battery pack comes away or the computer does not turn on or suddenly shuts down.

Connecting a Power Source

Connect your VAIO computer to an AC power source.

Carefully read the precautions in Notes on Using the Power Source before connection.

  1. Plug one end of the power cord () into the AC adapter ().
  2. Plug the other end of the power cord into an AC outlet ().
  3. Plug the cable from the AC adapter () into the DC IN port () on your VAIO computer.

Note

  • Do not plug more than one device into the same AC outlet.

  • The shape of the AC adapter varies depending on the model you purchased.

  • Make sure that the power plug is firmly plugged into your VAIO computer.

Hint

  • You can purchase a power strip with a surge protector to help prevent damage to your VAIO computer caused by sudden power surges (in an electrical storm, for example).

Removing the Battery Pack (SVF143/SVF153)

Remove the battery pack from the battery compartment of your VAIO computer.

  1. Turn off your VAIO computer, disconnect the power cord and all connection cables, and close the LCD screen lid.
  2. Slide the battery LOCK switch to the unlock position.
  3. Slide and hold the battery RELEASE latch (), put your fingertip underneath the tab () on the battery pack, and lift the battery pack in the direction of the arrow.

  4. Slide the battery pack away from your VAIO computer.

Note

  • You will lose all unsaved data if you remove the battery pack while your VAIO computer is on or in Sleep mode and not connected to the AC adapter.

    Be sure to turn off the computer before removing the battery pack.

Installing the Battery Pack (SVF143/SVF153)

Install the battery pack into the battery compartment of your VAIO computer.

  1. Turn off your VAIO computer, disconnect the power cord and all connection cables, and close the LCD screen lid.
  2. Slide the battery LOCK switch () to the unlock position.

  3. Slide the battery pack diagonally into the battery compartment until the projection () on each side of the battery compartment fits into the groove () on each side of the battery pack.

  4. Turn the battery pack in the direction of the arrow and push the battery pack down into the compartment until it clicks into place.

  5. Slide the battery LOCK switch to the LOCK position to secure the battery pack on your VAIO computer.

Note

  • Make sure the battery LOCK switch is in the LOCK position before using your VAIO computer. Using the computer without locking the battery pack securely may cause the following: the battery pack comes away or the computer does not turn on or suddenly shuts down.

Selecting Display Modes

You can switch the display output between the computer screen and an external display connected to your VAIO computer.

  1. Turn on an external display.
  2. Press the Fn+F7 keys several times to select your desired display output, and then press the Enter key.

Note

  • If you disconnect a display cable (not supplied) while only an external display is selected as the display output, it is hard to operate your VAIO computer because the computer screen is blank.

    To switch the display output to the computer screen, press the Fn+F7 keys twice, and then press the Enter key.

  • The display switch may become unavailable or your VAIO computer may become unstable during video playback. Exit the video playback software before switching the display output.

  • The display switch may not be available depending on the type of external display or projector.

Using the Multiple Monitors Function

The Multiple Monitors function allows you to distribute portions of your desktop across separate displays.

For example, if you have an external display connected to the monitor port, the computer screen and the external display can function as a single desktop.

  1. Right-click on the desktop and select Screen resolution.
  2. Click the drop-down list next to Multiple Displays, select Extend these displays and click OK.

    The setting options vary depending on the number of the connected external displays.

Note

  • If you set different colors on each display, do not expand a single window across two displays, or your software may not work properly.

  • Your external display may not support the Multiple Monitors function.

  • Certain software applications may not be compatible with the Multiple Monitors settings.

  • High screen resolution and high color depth may not be displayed correctly. Set fewer colors or a lower resolution for each display.

  • Do not change the display settings while using video/image software or playing DVDs, as it may cause unsuccessful playback/display or unstable system operations.

    Change the display settings after you exit the video/image software.

Hint

  • You can set the screen resolution for each display used for the Multiple Monitors function.

Notes on the LCD screen

Read the following precautions for correct use of the LCD screen.

  • 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 the manufacturing process and does not indicate a malfunction.

  • Do not scratch the surface of the LCD screen or exert pressure on it. This could cause damage.

  • Do not exert pressure on the LCD screen lid with the lid closed as it may scratch the LCD screen or soil it.

  • The LCD screen may become warm during operation. This is normal and does not indicate a malfunction.

  • Do not leave the LCD screen facing the sun. This could damage the LCD screen. Be sure to block direct sunlight when using your VAIO computer near a window.

  • Do not exert pressure on the LCD screen or its edges. The LCD screen may be sensitive to pressure or added stress, and exerting pressure may damage the screen or cause it to malfunction.

  • Using your VAIO computer in low temperature conditions may produce a residual image on the LCD screen. This does not indicate a malfunction. When the computer returns to normal temperature, the screen returns to normal.

  • A residual image may appear on the LCD screen if the same image is displayed for an extended period of time. The residual image disappears after a while. You can use a screen saver to prevent residual images.

Connecting a TV with an HDMI Input Port

You can connect a TV with an HDMI input port to your VAIO computer with an HDMI cable (not supplied).

Refer to the manual that came with your TV for more information on installation and use.

  1. Plug the power cord of your TV into an AC outlet and turn it on.
  2. Connect one end of an HDMI cable to the HDMI output port on your VAIO computer and the other end to the TV.
  3. Set the TV input to the external input.

    The screen image of your VAIO computer is displayed on the TV.

Note

  • If a device driver other than the one provided by Sony is used, the image will not be displayed and audio will not be heard. Always use the device driver provided by Sony for updates.

  • To hear sound from a device connected to the HDMI output port, you need to change the sound output device. For detailed instructions, see Changing the Sound Output Device.

Hint

  • The HDMI output port on your VAIO computer is compliant with the High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP) standard and capable of encrypting the transmission channel of digital video signals for the purpose of copyright protection, which enables you to view a wide variety of copyright protected and high-quality content.

Changing the Resolution (Size) of the Screen Image on an HDMI-Connected Device

You can change the screen resolution or size of your VAIO computer’s screen image displayed on an external display, such as a TV, connected to the computer with an HDMI cable (not supplied).

  1. Connect your VAIO computer to an HDMI equipped TV with an HDMI cable. (See Connecting a TV with an HDMI Input Port for more information.)
  2. Turn on the TV.
  3. Double-click(HDMI Resolution Settings) in the desktop notification area.

    The settings window appears.

  4. Click the Select Resolution tab to select the desired resolution, and then click Apply.

    After a few seconds, the selected resolution is applied.

  5. If the computer image does not fit the displayable region of the TV, click the Adjust Resolution tab to adjust the display size.

Note

  • Some resolution options may not be available, depending on the model or the HDMI-connected device.

  • The function to adjust the screen resolution may be disabled depending on the selected resolution.

Connecting a TV with an HDMI Input Port

You can connect a TV with an HDMI input port to your VAIO computer with an HDMI cable (not supplied).

Refer to the manual that came with your TV for more information on installation and use.

  1. Plug the power cord of your TV into an AC outlet and turn it on.
  2. Connect one end of an HDMI cable to the HDMI output port on your VAIO computer and the other end to the TV.
  3. Set the TV input to the external input.

    The screen image of your VAIO computer is displayed on the TV.

Note

  • If a device driver other than the one provided by Sony is used, the image will not be displayed and audio will not be heard. Always use the device driver provided by Sony for updates.

  • To hear sound from a device connected to the HDMI output port, you need to change the sound output device. For detailed instructions, see Changing the Sound Output Device.

Hint

  • The HDMI output port on your VAIO computer is compliant with the High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP) standard and capable of encrypting the transmission channel of digital video signals for the purpose of copyright protection, which enables you to view a wide variety of copyright protected and high-quality content.

Changing the Resolution (Size) of the Screen Image on an HDMI-Connected Device

You can change the screen resolution or size of your VAIO computer’s screen image displayed on an external display, such as a TV, connected to the computer with an HDMI cable (not supplied).

  1. Connect your VAIO computer to an HDMI equipped TV with an HDMI cable. (See Connecting a TV with an HDMI Input Port for more information.)
  2. Turn on the TV.
  3. Double-click(HDMI Resolution Settings) in the desktop notification area.

    The settings window appears.

  4. Click the Select Resolution tab to select the desired resolution, and then click Apply.

    After a few seconds, the selected resolution is applied.

  5. If the computer image does not fit the displayable region of the TV, click the Adjust Resolution tab to adjust the display size.

Note

  • Some resolution options may not be available, depending on the model or the HDMI-connected device.

  • The function to adjust the screen resolution may be disabled depending on the selected resolution.

Connecting an External Microphone (Microphone jack equipped models)

You can connect an external microphone to your VAIO computer and enjoy voice chat, etc.

  1. Plug the microphone cable into the microphone jack.

Note

  • If you connect or disconnect the microphone to/from your VAIO computer while running voice recording software, voice recording may fail or the software may exit.

    Connect the microphone and select it as the sound recording device for Windows before starting the software.

Hint

  • Use a plug-in-power microphone.

  • Refer to the manual that came with your microphone.

  • If microphone feedback occurs, move the microphone away from your speakers.

Selecting Display Modes

You can switch the display output between the computer screen and an external display connected to your VAIO computer.

  1. Turn on an external display.
  2. Press the Fn+F7 keys several times to select your desired display output, and then press the Enter key.

Note

  • If you disconnect a display cable (not supplied) while only an external display is selected as the display output, it is hard to operate your VAIO computer because the computer screen is blank.

    To switch the display output to the computer screen, press the Fn+F7 keys twice, and then press the Enter key.

  • The display switch may become unavailable or your VAIO computer may become unstable during video playback. Exit the video playback software before switching the display output.

  • The display switch may not be available depending on the type of external display or projector.

Using the Multiple Monitors Function

The Multiple Monitors function allows you to distribute portions of your desktop across separate displays.

For example, if you have an external display connected to the monitor port, the computer screen and the external display can function as a single desktop.

  1. Right-click on the desktop and select Screen resolution.
  2. Click the drop-down list next to Multiple Displays, select Extend these displays and click OK.

    The setting options vary depending on the number of the connected external displays.

Note

  • If you set different colors on each display, do not expand a single window across two displays, or your software may not work properly.

  • Your external display may not support the Multiple Monitors function.

  • Certain software applications may not be compatible with the Multiple Monitors settings.

  • High screen resolution and high color depth may not be displayed correctly. Set fewer colors or a lower resolution for each display.

  • Do not change the display settings while using video/image software or playing DVDs, as it may cause unsuccessful playback/display or unstable system operations.

    Change the display settings after you exit the video/image software.

Hint

  • You can set the screen resolution for each display used for the Multiple Monitors function.

Notes on the LCD screen

Read the following precautions for correct use of the LCD screen.

  • 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 the manufacturing process and does not indicate a malfunction.

  • Do not scratch the surface of the LCD screen or exert pressure on it. This could cause damage.

  • Do not exert pressure on the LCD screen lid with the lid closed as it may scratch the LCD screen or soil it.

  • The LCD screen may become warm during operation. This is normal and does not indicate a malfunction.

  • Do not leave the LCD screen facing the sun. This could damage the LCD screen. Be sure to block direct sunlight when using your VAIO computer near a window.

  • Do not exert pressure on the LCD screen or its edges. The LCD screen may be sensitive to pressure or added stress, and exerting pressure may damage the screen or cause it to malfunction.

  • Using your VAIO computer in low temperature conditions may produce a residual image on the LCD screen. This does not indicate a malfunction. When the computer returns to normal temperature, the screen returns to normal.

  • A residual image may appear on the LCD screen if the same image is displayed for an extended period of time. The residual image disappears after a while. You can use a screen saver to prevent residual images.

Changing the Sound Output Device

If there is no sound from the device connected to your VAIO computer, you need to change the device for sound output.

  1. Click(Start) and Control Panel.
  2. Click Hardware and Sound.
  3. Click Sound.
  4. Click the Playback tab.
  5. Ensure there is a check mark next to the icon of the device you intend to output computer sound from.

    If there is no check mark next to the icon, select it and click Set Default.

  6. Click OK.

To change the sound rate and bit depth

The sound rate and bit depth of the digital audio output signal should be set according to your digital audio device.

Follow the above steps 1 to 4, and then select the icon of your HDMI device and click Properties. On the Advanced tab, select the sample rate and bit depth (for example, 16 bit, 48000 Hz (DVD quality)) which the device supports, and then click OK.

Connecting a High-Quality Digital Sound Output Device between Your VAIO Computer and a TV

You can connect a high-quality home theater receiver or other surround sound decoder devices between your VAIO computer and a TV using an HDMI connection.

  1. Make sure the HDMI connection has been set up between the TV and the home theater receiver or surround sound decoder device.
  2. Change the device for sound output to the HDMI output. (See Changing the Sound Output Device for more information.)
  3. Turn on the TV and set its input to the HDMI input.
  4. Turn on the home theater receiver or surround sound decoder device and set its input to the HDMI input.
  5. Plug one end of an HDMI cable to the HDMI input port on the home theater receiver or surround sound decoder device and the other end to the HDMI output port on your VAIO computer.

Hint

Connecting a TV with an HDMI Input Port

You can connect a TV with an HDMI input port to your VAIO computer with an HDMI cable (not supplied).

Refer to the manual that came with your TV for more information on installation and use.

  1. Plug the power cord of your TV into an AC outlet and turn it on.
  2. Connect one end of an HDMI cable to the HDMI output port on your VAIO computer and the other end to the TV.
  3. Set the TV input to the external input.

    The screen image of your VAIO computer is displayed on the TV.

Note

  • If a device driver other than the one provided by Sony is used, the image will not be displayed and audio will not be heard. Always use the device driver provided by Sony for updates.

  • To hear sound from a device connected to the HDMI output port, you need to change the sound output device. For detailed instructions, see Changing the Sound Output Device.

Hint

  • The HDMI output port on your VAIO computer is compliant with the High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP) standard and capable of encrypting the transmission channel of digital video signals for the purpose of copyright protection, which enables you to view a wide variety of copyright protected and high-quality content.

Connecting an External DVD Drive

Connect an external DVD drive or hard disk drive to a USB port on your VAIO computer.

  1. Plug the power cord of your external drive into an AC outlet ().
  2. Plug one end of a USB cable () (not supplied) into the USB port (), and the other end to the external drive.

    See Connecting a USB Device for information on the USB connection.

Note

  • Be sure to connect an external drive to a power source with an AC adapter (if supplied).

Hint

  • You may need to install a software driver depending on the external drive you use.

    In addition, procedures to connect and use an external drive vary depending on the drive you use. Refer to the manual that came with your external drive for more information.

Connecting External Speakers or Headphones (Headphone jack equipped models)

You can connect external sound output devices (such as speakers or headphones) to your VAIO computer.

  1. Connect external speakers or headphones to the headphone jack.

Note

  • Turn down the volume of the speakers before turning them on.

Hint

  • Refer to the manual that came with your speakers or headphones.

Connecting an External Microphone (Microphone jack equipped models)

You can connect an external microphone to your VAIO computer and enjoy voice chat, etc.

  1. Plug the microphone cable into the microphone jack.

Note

  • If you connect or disconnect the microphone to/from your VAIO computer while running voice recording software, voice recording may fail or the software may exit.

    Connect the microphone and select it as the sound recording device for Windows before starting the software.

Hint

  • Use a plug-in-power microphone.

  • Refer to the manual that came with your microphone.

  • If microphone feedback occurs, move the microphone away from your speakers.

Connecting External Speakers/Headphones/Headset (Headset compatible headphone jack equipped models)

You can connect external sound output devices (such as speakers, headphones, or a headset) to your VAIO computer.

Use a Sony smartphone compatible headset (not supplied) to make an Internet call and voice chat.

  1. Connect external speakers, headphones, or a headset to the headset compatible headphone jack.

Note

  • Turn down the volume of the speakers before turning them on.

  • Your headset may not work correctly with your VAIO computer.

  • An external microphone does not work if you connect it to the headset compatible headphone jack.

  • The remote of your headset does not work with your VAIO computer.

Hint

  • Refer to the manual that came with your speakers, headphones, or headset.

Changing the Sound Output Device

If there is no sound from the device connected to your VAIO computer, you need to change the device for sound output.

  1. Click(Start) and Control Panel.
  2. Click Hardware and Sound.
  3. Click Sound.
  4. Click the Playback tab.
  5. Ensure there is a check mark next to the icon of the device you intend to output computer sound from.

    If there is no check mark next to the icon, select it and click Set Default.

  6. Click OK.

To change the sound rate and bit depth

The sound rate and bit depth of the digital audio output signal should be set according to your digital audio device.

Follow the above steps 1 to 4, and then select the icon of your HDMI device and click Properties. On the Advanced tab, select the sample rate and bit depth (for example, 16 bit, 48000 Hz (DVD quality)) which the device supports, and then click OK.

Connecting a High-Quality Digital Sound Output Device between Your VAIO Computer and a TV

You can connect a high-quality home theater receiver or other surround sound decoder devices between your VAIO computer and a TV using an HDMI connection.

  1. Make sure the HDMI connection has been set up between the TV and the home theater receiver or surround sound decoder device.
  2. Change the device for sound output to the HDMI output. (See Changing the Sound Output Device for more information.)
  3. Turn on the TV and set its input to the HDMI input.
  4. Turn on the home theater receiver or surround sound decoder device and set its input to the HDMI input.
  5. Plug one end of an HDMI cable to the HDMI input port on the home theater receiver or surround sound decoder device and the other end to the HDMI output port on your VAIO computer.

Hint

Connecting External Speakers or Headphones (Headphone jack equipped models)

You can connect external sound output devices (such as speakers or headphones) to your VAIO computer.

  1. Connect external speakers or headphones to the headphone jack.

Note

  • Turn down the volume of the speakers before turning them on.

Hint

  • Refer to the manual that came with your speakers or headphones.

Connecting External Speakers/Headphones/Headset (Headset compatible headphone jack equipped models)

You can connect external sound output devices (such as speakers, headphones, or a headset) to your VAIO computer.

Use a Sony smartphone compatible headset (not supplied) to make an Internet call and voice chat.

  1. Connect external speakers, headphones, or a headset to the headset compatible headphone jack.

Note

  • Turn down the volume of the speakers before turning them on.

  • Your headset may not work correctly with your VAIO computer.

  • An external microphone does not work if you connect it to the headset compatible headphone jack.

  • The remote of your headset does not work with your VAIO computer.

Hint

  • Refer to the manual that came with your speakers, headphones, or headset.

Connecting External Speakers or Headphones (Headphone jack equipped models)

You can connect external sound output devices (such as speakers or headphones) to your VAIO computer.

  1. Connect external speakers or headphones to the headphone jack.

Note

  • Turn down the volume of the speakers before turning them on.

Hint

  • Refer to the manual that came with your speakers or headphones.

Connecting External Speakers/Headphones/Headset (Headset compatible headphone jack equipped models)

You can connect external sound output devices (such as speakers, headphones, or a headset) to your VAIO computer.

Use a Sony smartphone compatible headset (not supplied) to make an Internet call and voice chat.

  1. Connect external speakers, headphones, or a headset to the headset compatible headphone jack.

Note

  • Turn down the volume of the speakers before turning them on.

  • Your headset may not work correctly with your VAIO computer.

  • An external microphone does not work if you connect it to the headset compatible headphone jack.

  • The remote of your headset does not work with your VAIO computer.

Hint

  • Refer to the manual that came with your speakers, headphones, or headset.

Connecting an External Microphone (Microphone jack equipped models)

You can connect an external microphone to your VAIO computer and enjoy voice chat, etc.

  1. Plug the microphone cable into the microphone jack.

Note

  • If you connect or disconnect the microphone to/from your VAIO computer while running voice recording software, voice recording may fail or the software may exit.

    Connect the microphone and select it as the sound recording device for Windows before starting the software.

Hint

  • Use a plug-in-power microphone.

  • Refer to the manual that came with your microphone.

  • If microphone feedback occurs, move the microphone away from your speakers.

Connecting a High-Quality Digital Sound Output Device between Your VAIO Computer and a TV

You can connect a high-quality home theater receiver or other surround sound decoder devices between your VAIO computer and a TV using an HDMI connection.

  1. Make sure the HDMI connection has been set up between the TV and the home theater receiver or surround sound decoder device.
  2. Change the device for sound output to the HDMI output. (See Changing the Sound Output Device for more information.)
  3. Turn on the TV and set its input to the HDMI input.
  4. Turn on the home theater receiver or surround sound decoder device and set its input to the HDMI input.
  5. Plug one end of an HDMI cable to the HDMI input port on the home theater receiver or surround sound decoder device and the other end to the HDMI output port on your VAIO computer.

Hint

Before Using the Wireless LAN

You first need to establish wireless LAN communications between your VAIO computer and an access point (not supplied) before connecting the computer to the Internet using the wireless LAN.

Refer to Windows Help and Support and the manual that came with your access point for more information.

For a quick and easy connection to the wireless LAN

When the first time you connect your VAIO computer to the Internet using the wireless LAN at home or connect the computer to a public wireless network (hotspot), use VAIO Easy Connect that helps you establish a connection to the wireless LAN quickly and easily.

  1. Click(Start), All Programs, VAIO Easy Connect, and follow the on-screen instructions in the Easy Internet Connection Setup window.

Starting Wireless LAN Communications

You can establish wireless LAN communications between your VAIO computer and an access point (not supplied) using VAIO Smart Network. Before using the wireless LAN, make sure your access point is on and operating.

Read the instructions in Before Using the Wireless LAN for correct use.

  1. Click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Smart Network or click(the VAIO Smart Network icon) in the desktop notification area.
  2. Make sure each switch next to Wireless Functions and Wireless LAN is toggled to On.

    If it is set to Off, click it to toggle to On.

  3. In the VAIO Smart Network window, select a mode that suits your wireless LAN.

    Refer to the help file included with VAIO Smart Network for more information about operations.

  4. Clickor(the Network icon) in the desktop notification area.
  5. Select the desired access point and click Connect.

    After the connection is established, Connected appears in the selected wireless access point field.

    If you cannot find the desired access point, click(Refresh).

    If a security key entry window appears, enter the security key as required and click OK.

    Note that security keys are case-sensitive.

    See About a Security Key for a Wireless LAN for more information on security keys.

To check wireless LAN connection status

You can move the mouse pointer overor(the Network icon) in the desktop notification area to check the wireless LAN connection status, such as the access point currently connected to your VAIO computer.

Note

  • On IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n equipped models, when only the 2.4 GHz wireless LAN function is enabled, your VAIO computer cannot connect to a 5 GHz wireless LAN access point. Also, when only the 5 GHz wireless LAN function is enabled, the computer cannot connect to a 2.4 GHz wireless LAN access point.

    On IEEE 802.11b/g/n equipped models, when the 2.4 GHz wireless LAN function is disabled, the computer cannot connect to an access point. Also, the computer cannot connect to a 5 GHz wireless LAN access point.

  • It may take some time to find and connect to a wireless LAN access point before starting communications via the wireless LAN.

Hint

  • Once you connect your VAIO computer to the access point by entering the security key, the access point will be registered in the computer. You do not have to enter the security key for subsequent connections.

Stopping Wireless LAN Communications

Stop wireless LAN communications using VAIO Smart Network.

  1. Click the switch next to Wireless LAN to toggle it to Off in the VAIO Smart Network window.

    The wireless LAN function is disabled.

Note

  • Do not disable the wireless LAN function while accessing remote documents, files, or resources, as it may result in data loss.

Notes on Using the Wireless LAN Function

Before using the wireless LAN function, read the following precautions for correct use.

  • In some countries or regions, using the wireless LAN products may be restricted by the local regulations.

  • Wireless LAN devices work on the 2.4 GHz band, which is used by a variety of devices. Wireless LAN devices use the technology to minimize radio interference from other devices that use the same band; however, radio interference may still slow communication speeds, reduce communication range, or cause communication failure.

  • If both the BLUETOOTH function and the 2.4 GHz wireless LAN function of your VAIO computer are enabled, interference may occur and cause slower communication speeds or other problems.

  • To communicate via a wireless LAN while you are on the road, you may need to contract with a wireless LAN connection service provider.

  • If your VAIO computer is equipped with the IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n standard, outdoor use of the 5 GHz wireless LAN function is prohibited by law.

  • The communication speed and range may vary depending on the following conditions:

    • Distance between devices

    • Existence of obstacles between devices

    • Device configuration

    • Radio conditions

    • Ambient environment (including wall material, etc.)

    • Software in use

      Communications may be cut off depending on radio conditions.

  • The data transfer rate specified in the specification is the theoretical maximum, and may not reflect actual data transfer rate.

  • Actual communication speed may not be as fast as the one displayed on your VAIO computer.

  • The 2.4 GHz wireless LAN and 5 GHz wireless LAN frequency bands are not communicable with one another.

  • The data transfer rate of IEEE 802.11g and IEEE 802.11n (2.4 GHz) may be affected by interference when used with an IEEE 802.11b product. Also, IEEE 802.11g and IEEE 802.11n automatically lower the transfer rate to maintain compatibility with an IEEE 802.11b product. The transfer rate may be regained by changing the channel settings of your access point.

  • On models with the Windows 7 Starter operating system, you cannot use ad-hoc connections of the wireless LAN function.

  • The IEEE 802.11a standard and the IEEE 802.11n standard are not available on ad-hoc networks.

  • To stop the wireless LAN function abruptly, turn off your VAIO computer.

  • The WLAN standard includes the encryption methods: Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP), which is a security protocol, Wi-Fi Protected Access 2 (WPA2), and Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA). Proposed jointly by the IEEE and Wi-Fi Alliance, both WPA2 and WPA are specifications of standards based on interoperable security enhancements that increase the level of data protection and access control for existing Wi-Fi networks. WPA is designed to be forward compatible with the IEEE 802.11i specification. It utilizes the enhanced data encryption Temporal Key Integrity Protocol (TKIP) in addition to user 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 protection and network access control and is also designed to secure all versions of 802.11 devices, including 802.11b, 802.11a, 802.11g, and 802.11n standards, multi-band and multi-mode. In addition, based on the ratified IEEE 802.11i standard, WPA2 provides government grade security by implementing the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) FIPS 140-2 compliant AES encryption algorithm and 802.1X-based authentication. WPA2 is backward compatible with WPA.

About the Internet Connection Services

The following types of Internet connection services are available.

You can select from among the services according to your preference, for example, communication speed or a usage fee. For detailed information on a variety of connection services, contact Internet Service Providers (ISPs).

  • Fiber to the Home (FTTH)

  • Cable modem

  • Digital Subscriber Line (DSL)

  • Satellite

  • Dial-up

About the Wireless LAN Standards

The Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) allows your VAIO computer to connect to a network through a wireless connection.

The WLAN uses the following IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n standard, which specifies the type of technology used.

Refer to the specifications to find out about the configuration of the computer.

IEEE 802.11a (Frequency band: 5 GHz)

Exclusive to models compliant with the IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n standard.

IEEE 802.11b/g (Frequency band: 2.4 GHz)

The IEEE 802.11g standard provides higher-speed communications than the IEEE 802.11b.

IEEE 802.11n (Frequency band: 2.4 GHz/5 GHz)

For models compliant with the IEEE 802.11b/g/n standard, only 2.4 GHz band can be used.

Connecting to the Internet with a Wired Connection (LAN port equipped models)

Before using the Internet, you need to sign up with an Internet Service Provider (ISP) and set up devices required for connecting your VAIO computer to the Internet.

Connect one end of a LAN cable (not supplied) to the LAN port on your VAIO computer and the other end to your network.

Note

  • For detailed information on devices required for Internet access and how to connect your VAIO computer to the Internet, ask your ISP.

  • When connecting your VAIO computer to the Internet, be sure to use a cable with network or Ethernet printed on it.

  • Do not plug a telephone cable into the LAN port on your VAIO computer.

    If the computer is connected to the one of the networks or the LAN port is connected to the telephone lines mentioned below, high electric current to the port may cause damage, overheating, or fire.

    • Any network, except 1000BASE-T/100BASE-TX/10BASE-T type networks

    • Public telephone subscriber line

    • Private branch exchange (PBX)

    • Home (intercom speakerphone) or business-use telephone lines (multi-line business telephone)

Hint

  • To connect your VAIO computer to the Internet using the wireless LAN function, you need to set up the wireless LAN network. See Starting Wireless LAN Communications for more information.

About the Network (LAN)

The network (LAN) enables you to connect your VAIO computer to the Internet and transfer data between the computer and other devices.

You can connect your VAIO computer to 1000BASE-T/100BASE-TX/10BASE-T type networks with a LAN cable (not supplied). Connect one end of a LAN cable to the LAN port on the computer and the other end to your network. (LAN port equipped models)

For information on peripheral devices required for LAN access, ask your Internet Service Provider (ISP) or refer to the manual that came with your modem.

For information on how to connect your VAIO computer to the network, refer to your ISP’s instructions or the manual that came with the modem and other peripheral devices. If you require information on the network settings at your workplace, ask the network administrator.

About a Security Key for a Wireless LAN

A security key is a security protocol for a wireless LAN that encrypts data transmitted on the wireless LAN. It is also referred to as an encryption key or a WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) key.

The security key allows wireless devices that have the same key, such as a wireless LAN access point and a computer, to communicate with each other on the wireless LAN.

The security key is assigned to each access point by default. (Make sure the default security key has been changed to protect data from unauthorized use.) If you cannot find the default security key, refer to the manual that came with your access point.

If you enter a wrong security key, follow these steps to re-enter the security key.

  1. Click(Start) and Control Panel.

  2. Click Network and Internet and Network and Sharing Center.

  3. Click Manage wireless networks in the left pane.

  4. Right-click the desired network in the Networks you can view and modify list, and then click Properties.

  5. Click the Security tab.

  6. Enter a security key in the Network security key field and click OK.

About the Internet Connection Services

The following types of Internet connection services are available.

You can select from among the services according to your preference, for example, communication speed or a usage fee. For detailed information on a variety of connection services, contact Internet Service Providers (ISPs).

  • Fiber to the Home (FTTH)

  • Cable modem

  • Digital Subscriber Line (DSL)

  • Satellite

  • Dial-up

About the Wireless LAN Standards

The Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) allows your VAIO computer to connect to a network through a wireless connection.

The WLAN uses the following IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n standard, which specifies the type of technology used.

Refer to the specifications to find out about the configuration of the computer.

IEEE 802.11a (Frequency band: 5 GHz)

Exclusive to models compliant with the IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n standard.

IEEE 802.11b/g (Frequency band: 2.4 GHz)

The IEEE 802.11g standard provides higher-speed communications than the IEEE 802.11b.

IEEE 802.11n (Frequency band: 2.4 GHz/5 GHz)

For models compliant with the IEEE 802.11b/g/n standard, only 2.4 GHz band can be used.

Connecting to the Internet with a Wired Connection (LAN port equipped models)

Before using the Internet, you need to sign up with an Internet Service Provider (ISP) and set up devices required for connecting your VAIO computer to the Internet.

Connect one end of a LAN cable (not supplied) to the LAN port on your VAIO computer and the other end to your network.

Note

  • For detailed information on devices required for Internet access and how to connect your VAIO computer to the Internet, ask your ISP.

  • When connecting your VAIO computer to the Internet, be sure to use a cable with network or Ethernet printed on it.

  • Do not plug a telephone cable into the LAN port on your VAIO computer.

    If the computer is connected to the one of the networks or the LAN port is connected to the telephone lines mentioned below, high electric current to the port may cause damage, overheating, or fire.

    • Any network, except 1000BASE-T/100BASE-TX/10BASE-T type networks

    • Public telephone subscriber line

    • Private branch exchange (PBX)

    • Home (intercom speakerphone) or business-use telephone lines (multi-line business telephone)

Hint

  • To connect your VAIO computer to the Internet using the wireless LAN function, you need to set up the wireless LAN network. See Starting Wireless LAN Communications for more information.

About the Network (LAN)

The network (LAN) enables you to connect your VAIO computer to the Internet and transfer data between the computer and other devices.

You can connect your VAIO computer to 1000BASE-T/100BASE-TX/10BASE-T type networks with a LAN cable (not supplied). Connect one end of a LAN cable to the LAN port on the computer and the other end to your network. (LAN port equipped models)

For information on peripheral devices required for LAN access, ask your Internet Service Provider (ISP) or refer to the manual that came with your modem.

For information on how to connect your VAIO computer to the network, refer to your ISP’s instructions or the manual that came with the modem and other peripheral devices. If you require information on the network settings at your workplace, ask the network administrator.

Before Using the Wireless LAN

You first need to establish wireless LAN communications between your VAIO computer and an access point (not supplied) before connecting the computer to the Internet using the wireless LAN.

Refer to Windows Help and Support and the manual that came with your access point for more information.

For a quick and easy connection to the wireless LAN

When the first time you connect your VAIO computer to the Internet using the wireless LAN at home or connect the computer to a public wireless network (hotspot), use VAIO Easy Connect that helps you establish a connection to the wireless LAN quickly and easily.

  1. Click(Start), All Programs, VAIO Easy Connect, and follow the on-screen instructions in the Easy Internet Connection Setup window.

Starting Wireless LAN Communications

You can establish wireless LAN communications between your VAIO computer and an access point (not supplied) using VAIO Smart Network. Before using the wireless LAN, make sure your access point is on and operating.

Read the instructions in Before Using the Wireless LAN for correct use.

  1. Click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Smart Network or click(the VAIO Smart Network icon) in the desktop notification area.
  2. Make sure each switch next to Wireless Functions and Wireless LAN is toggled to On.

    If it is set to Off, click it to toggle to On.

  3. In the VAIO Smart Network window, select a mode that suits your wireless LAN.

    Refer to the help file included with VAIO Smart Network for more information about operations.

  4. Clickor(the Network icon) in the desktop notification area.
  5. Select the desired access point and click Connect.

    After the connection is established, Connected appears in the selected wireless access point field.

    If you cannot find the desired access point, click(Refresh).

    If a security key entry window appears, enter the security key as required and click OK.

    Note that security keys are case-sensitive.

    See About a Security Key for a Wireless LAN for more information on security keys.

To check wireless LAN connection status

You can move the mouse pointer overor(the Network icon) in the desktop notification area to check the wireless LAN connection status, such as the access point currently connected to your VAIO computer.

Note

  • On IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n equipped models, when only the 2.4 GHz wireless LAN function is enabled, your VAIO computer cannot connect to a 5 GHz wireless LAN access point. Also, when only the 5 GHz wireless LAN function is enabled, the computer cannot connect to a 2.4 GHz wireless LAN access point.

    On IEEE 802.11b/g/n equipped models, when the 2.4 GHz wireless LAN function is disabled, the computer cannot connect to an access point. Also, the computer cannot connect to a 5 GHz wireless LAN access point.

  • It may take some time to find and connect to a wireless LAN access point before starting communications via the wireless LAN.

Hint

  • Once you connect your VAIO computer to the access point by entering the security key, the access point will be registered in the computer. You do not have to enter the security key for subsequent connections.

Stopping Wireless LAN Communications

Stop wireless LAN communications using VAIO Smart Network.

  1. Click the switch next to Wireless LAN to toggle it to Off in the VAIO Smart Network window.

    The wireless LAN function is disabled.

Note

  • Do not disable the wireless LAN function while accessing remote documents, files, or resources, as it may result in data loss.

Notes on Using the Wireless LAN Function

Before using the wireless LAN function, read the following precautions for correct use.

  • In some countries or regions, using the wireless LAN products may be restricted by the local regulations.

  • Wireless LAN devices work on the 2.4 GHz band, which is used by a variety of devices. Wireless LAN devices use the technology to minimize radio interference from other devices that use the same band; however, radio interference may still slow communication speeds, reduce communication range, or cause communication failure.

  • If both the BLUETOOTH function and the 2.4 GHz wireless LAN function of your VAIO computer are enabled, interference may occur and cause slower communication speeds or other problems.

  • To communicate via a wireless LAN while you are on the road, you may need to contract with a wireless LAN connection service provider.

  • If your VAIO computer is equipped with the IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n standard, outdoor use of the 5 GHz wireless LAN function is prohibited by law.

  • The communication speed and range may vary depending on the following conditions:

    • Distance between devices

    • Existence of obstacles between devices

    • Device configuration

    • Radio conditions

    • Ambient environment (including wall material, etc.)

    • Software in use

      Communications may be cut off depending on radio conditions.

  • The data transfer rate specified in the specification is the theoretical maximum, and may not reflect actual data transfer rate.

  • Actual communication speed may not be as fast as the one displayed on your VAIO computer.

  • The 2.4 GHz wireless LAN and 5 GHz wireless LAN frequency bands are not communicable with one another.

  • The data transfer rate of IEEE 802.11g and IEEE 802.11n (2.4 GHz) may be affected by interference when used with an IEEE 802.11b product. Also, IEEE 802.11g and IEEE 802.11n automatically lower the transfer rate to maintain compatibility with an IEEE 802.11b product. The transfer rate may be regained by changing the channel settings of your access point.

  • On models with the Windows 7 Starter operating system, you cannot use ad-hoc connections of the wireless LAN function.

  • The IEEE 802.11a standard and the IEEE 802.11n standard are not available on ad-hoc networks.

  • To stop the wireless LAN function abruptly, turn off your VAIO computer.

  • The WLAN standard includes the encryption methods: Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP), which is a security protocol, Wi-Fi Protected Access 2 (WPA2), and Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA). Proposed jointly by the IEEE and Wi-Fi Alliance, both WPA2 and WPA are specifications of standards based on interoperable security enhancements that increase the level of data protection and access control for existing Wi-Fi networks. WPA is designed to be forward compatible with the IEEE 802.11i specification. It utilizes the enhanced data encryption Temporal Key Integrity Protocol (TKIP) in addition to user 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 protection and network access control and is also designed to secure all versions of 802.11 devices, including 802.11b, 802.11a, 802.11g, and 802.11n standards, multi-band and multi-mode. In addition, based on the ratified IEEE 802.11i standard, WPA2 provides government grade security by implementing the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) FIPS 140-2 compliant AES encryption algorithm and 802.1X-based authentication. WPA2 is backward compatible with WPA.

About the Internet Connection Services

The following types of Internet connection services are available.

You can select from among the services according to your preference, for example, communication speed or a usage fee. For detailed information on a variety of connection services, contact Internet Service Providers (ISPs).

  • Fiber to the Home (FTTH)

  • Cable modem

  • Digital Subscriber Line (DSL)

  • Satellite

  • Dial-up

About the Wireless LAN Standards

The Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) allows your VAIO computer to connect to a network through a wireless connection.

The WLAN uses the following IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n standard, which specifies the type of technology used.

Refer to the specifications to find out about the configuration of the computer.

IEEE 802.11a (Frequency band: 5 GHz)

Exclusive to models compliant with the IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n standard.

IEEE 802.11b/g (Frequency band: 2.4 GHz)

The IEEE 802.11g standard provides higher-speed communications than the IEEE 802.11b.

IEEE 802.11n (Frequency band: 2.4 GHz/5 GHz)

For models compliant with the IEEE 802.11b/g/n standard, only 2.4 GHz band can be used.

About a Security Key for a Wireless LAN

A security key is a security protocol for a wireless LAN that encrypts data transmitted on the wireless LAN. It is also referred to as an encryption key or a WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) key.

The security key allows wireless devices that have the same key, such as a wireless LAN access point and a computer, to communicate with each other on the wireless LAN.

The security key is assigned to each access point by default. (Make sure the default security key has been changed to protect data from unauthorized use.) If you cannot find the default security key, refer to the manual that came with your access point.

If you enter a wrong security key, follow these steps to re-enter the security key.

  1. Click(Start) and Control Panel.

  2. Click Network and Internet and Network and Sharing Center.

  3. Click Manage wireless networks in the left pane.

  4. Right-click the desired network in the Networks you can view and modify list, and then click Properties.

  5. Click the Security tab.

  6. Enter a security key in the Network security key field and click OK.

About the BLUETOOTH(R) Function (BLUETOOTH equipped models)

You can establish wireless communications between your VAIO computer and other BLUETOOTH devices, such as another computer, a smartphone, a mobile phone, a headset, or a mouse.

You can transfer data between these devices without cables at a range of up to 10 meters in an open area.

One BLUETOOTH device can connect with up to seven devices via wireless network to exchange data.

When a device requires connection to another device, it sends out an inquiry to neighboring BLUETOOTH devices. If any device responds to the inquiry, the two devices can connect with each other.

Notes on Using the BLUETOOTH(R) Function (BLUETOOTH equipped models)

Before using the BLUETOOTH function, read the following precautions for correct use.

  • In some countries or regions, using the BLUETOOTH function may be restricted by the local regulations.

  • The BLUETOOTH function may not work with some devices, depending on the manufacturer or the software version employed by the manufacturer. Check the system requirements of the BLUETOOTH device before purchasing.

    For information on BLUETOOTH devices, visit the VAIO Support website.

    Some BLUETOOTH devices require authentication (pairing) before establishing connection with another device. Perform the authentication process before connecting to such devices.

  • BLUETOOTH devices work on the 2.4 GHz band, which is used by a variety of devices. BLUETOOTH devices use the technology to minimize radio interference from other devices that use the same band; however, radio interference may still cause slower communication speeds, reduce communication range, or in some cases, cause communication failure.

  • Communication speed and range may vary depending on the following conditions:

    • Distance between communication devices

    • Existence of obstacles between devices

    • Ambient environment that includes existence of walls and materials of such walls

    • Device configuration

    • Software in use

    • Radio conditions

      Communications may be cut off depending on radio conditions.

  • If your VAIO computer is compliant with BLUETOOTH high speed technology and you intend to use it for high-speed communications, enable both the wireless LAN and BLUETOOTH functions on the computer.

  • Large files may occasionally be corrupted during continuous transfer due to limitations of the BLUETOOTH standard and electromagnetic interference in the environment.

  • Connecting multiple BLUETOOTH devices to your VAIO computer may cause channel congestion, resulting in poor device performance. This is normal with BLUETOOTH technology and does not indicate a malfunction.

  • Video and audio may not be synchronized if you play videos on your VAIO computer with audio output from a connected BLUETOOTH device. This is a frequent occurrence with BLUETOOTH technology and does not indicate a malfunction.

  • All BLUETOOTH devices must be certified through the procedure stipulated by Bluetooth SIG to ensure that they are compliant with the BLUETOOTH standard.

    Even if the BLUETOOTH devices are compliant with the BLUETOOTH standard, individual device performance, specifications, and operation procedures may vary. Data exchange may not be possible in all situations.

  • Not all BLUETOOTH devices are guaranteed of compatibility with your VAIO computer.

  • If you urgently need to disable the BLUETOOTH function, turn off your VAIO computer.

About BLUETOOTH(R) Security (BLUETOOTH equipped models)

The BLUETOOTH wireless technology has an authentication function, which allows you to control communication with other devices.

The authentication function helps you prevent unwanted anonymous BLUETOOTH devices from accessing your VAIO computer. The first time two BLUETOOTH devices communicate, a common passkey (a password required for authentication) should be identified to register both devices. Once a device is registered, there is no need to re-enter the passkey.

Your VAIO computer can prevent unauthorized BLUETOOTH devices from finding it and control which devices are allowed to connect with it.

For details, click(Start) and Help and Support to open Windows Help and Support, and then enter “BLUETOOTH” in the search box.

Communicating with Another BLUETOOTH(R) Device such as a Mouse (BLUETOOTH equipped models)

You can connect BLUETOOTH devices to your VAIO computer.

For details on BLUETOOTH communication, see About the BLUETOOTH(R) Function (BLUETOOTH equipped models).

  1. Click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Smart Network or click(the VAIO Smart Network icon) in the desktop notification area.
  2. Make sure each switch next to Wireless Functions and BLUETOOTH is toggled to On.

    If it is set to Off, click it to toggle to On.

  3. Click(Start) and Devices and Printers.
  4. When connecting a BLUETOOTH mouse, turn it on and press the button to connect the mouse.

    Refer to the manual that came with your BLUETOOTH device for the procedure to ready the device for connection.

  5. Click Add a device.

    Your VAIO computer searches for devices and displays a device list. Follow the on-screen instructions to register your device.

Note

  • Depending on the BLUETOOTH device, it may take some time for your VAIO computer to find the device.

    If your device does not appear in the list, repeat the procedure to have the device ready for connection (for example, pressing the button for connection).

  • Depending on the BLUETOOTH device, the procedure to establish connection may vary. Refer to the manual that came with the device for the procedure.

Hint

  • If your VAIO computer is compliant with BLUETOOTH high speed technology and you intend to use it for high-speed communications, toggle the switch next to Wireless LAN to On, too.

  • To connect a BLUETOOTH mouse, select it from the device list and click the Next button. If the Select a paring option window appears, select Pair without using a code and click the Next button. Click Close with the mouse you selected to close the window.

  • For details on the operations, click(Start) and Help and Support to open Windows Help and Support, and then enter “BLUETOOTH” in the search box.

  • A window appears for passkey input if a BLUETOOTH device is requesting authentication to establish connection. Follow the on-screen instructions to share the passkey between the BLUETOOTH device and your VAIO computer. If you do not wish to connect, click the Cancel button in the window.

    A passkey is a secret number that is entered by a user to use for the authentication process to allow two BLUETOOTH devices to communicate with each other. Enter the same alphanumeric string (case-sensitive) for both devices to allow them to communicate with each other. You can change the passkey every time you perform authentication, providing you enter the same passkey for both devices during the authentication process. For details on the passkey of a BLUETOOTH device, refer to the manual that came with the device. If no BLUETOOTH passkey is entered for a certain time, the connection process will be terminated for security. In this case, try again.

Stopping BLUETOOTH(R) Communications (BLUETOOTH equipped models)

Stop BLUETOOTH communications using VAIO Smart Network.

  1. Turn off the BLUETOOTH device that is communicating with your VAIO computer.
  2. In the VAIO Smart Network window, click the switch next to BLUETOOTH to toggle it to Off.

Charging a USB Device

You can charge a USB device even while your VAIO computer is off, in Hibernate mode, or Sleep mode by enabling the USB charging settings.

The USB charging settings are disabled by default.

  1. Click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Control Center.
  2. Click Power Management and USB Charging Settings to enable the settings.
  3. Connect a USB device to the USB port with themark printed around it.

    If charging does not start even when you connect a USB device to the USB port that supports USB charging, disconnect and connect the device.

Note

  • With the USB charging settings enabled, power consumption when your VAIO computer is off or in Hibernate mode or Sleep mode increases because the computer supplies power to the USB port even when a USB device is not connected to the port.

  • When the USB charging settings are enabled, you cannot use the remote wake-up function on the USB device connected to the USB port that supports USB charging.

Connecting a USB Device

You can connect a Universal Serial Bus (USB) device such as a mouse, floppy disk drive, speaker or printer to your VAIO computer.

Installation of the device driver software supplied with the USB device may be required when connecting.

Refer to the manual that came with the device for more information.

  1. Choose the USB port () you prefer to use.
  2. Plug the USB device cable () (not supplied) into the USB port.

Note

  • You may need to install the driver software supplied with your USB device before use. Refer to the manual that came with the USB device for more information.

  • In order to print documents, be sure the USB printer is compatible with your version of Windows.

  • Before disconnecting USB speakers from your VAIO computer, stop DVD or music playback or turn off the computer. If you disconnect the USB speakers during playback, it may cause a malfunction.

    For information on how to remove a USB device, refer to the manual that came with the device.

  • To protect your VAIO computer and/or USB devices from damage, observe the following:

    • When moving your VAIO computer with USB devices connected, avoid exposing the USB ports to shock or impact.

    • Do not put your VAIO computer in a bag or carrying case with USB devices connected.

Hint

  • The USB ports on your VAIO computer are compliant with the USB 2.0 standard and/or USB 3.0 standard.

    USB ports that are compliant with the USB 3.0 standard are identifiable by their blue color.

  • In addition to the USB 2.0 standard transfer modes, the USB 3.0 standard specifies the following transfer mode:

    • SuperSpeed: Transfer rate of 5 Gbps.

Booting Your VAIO Computer from External Devices

You can boot your VAIO computer from external devices, such as an optical disc drive, a USB floppy disk drive, or a USB flash drive by using the BIOS function.

  1. Connect an external device to your VAIO computer.
  2. Press the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is off.

    The VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen appears.

  3. Click Start from media (USB device/optical disc).

    The booting process from the external device starts.

Note

  • Disconnect all devices from your VAIO computer except for the external device from which you intend to boot up. Some devices cannot be used to boot the computer, or cannot be used with the computer.

  • If an AC adapter is supplied with the external device, be sure to connect it to an AC power source in advance.

Hint

  • If the display language selection window appears, select your desired language and click OK.

Restricting the Use of Built-in Devices (SVP112/SVP132)

The BIOS function enables you to disable the built-in devices such as those listed below. You can use this function to prohibit external connections and communications.

  • USB Ports

  • Memory Card Slot

  • Optical Disc Drive (Optical disc drive equipped models)

  • Wireless Device

  • LAN Device (LAN port equipped models)

  1. Press the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is off.

    The VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen appears.

  2. Select Start BIOS setup.

    Enter a password if it has already been set.

    The BIOS setup screen appears.

  3. Press theorkey to select the Advanced tab.
  4. Press theorkey to select your desired built-in device and press the Enter key.
  5. Press theorkey to select Disabled or Enabled and press the Enter key.

    • When you select Disabled:

      The selected device is disabled.

    • When you select Enabled:

      The selected device is enabled and can be used on your VAIO computer.

  6. Press theorkey to select the Exit tab, select Exit Setup, and then press the Enter key.

    At the confirmation prompt, press the Enter key.

Note

  • Devices you can disable vary depending on the model.

Hint

  • If the display language selection window appears, select your desired language and click OK.

About the ASSIST Button

Press the ASSIST button to perform regular maintenance of your VAIO computer or to solve problems you might encounter when using the computer.

While the computer is on, the ASSIST button starts VAIO Care.

While the computer is off, the ASSIST button displays the VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen.

VAIO Care Rescue can be used to recover the computer in case of emergency, for example, when Windows does not start.

Updating Your VAIO Computer

Be sure to update your VAIO computer with the following software applications to enhance the computer’s efficiency, security, and functionality.

Note

  • Your VAIO computer must be connected to the Internet to download the updates.

Windows Update

Windows Update enables you to make your VAIO computer more stable.

  1. Click(Start), All Programs, and Windows Update.

  2. Follow the on-screen instructions.

VAIO Update

VAIO Update automatically notifies you of new updates available on the Internet, and downloads and installs them on your VAIO computer.

  1. Click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Update.

  2. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Using VAIO Update

VAIO Update provides a service that informs you of available update information, such as important notices or update programs, to keep your VAIO computer up to date.

Through the Internet, VAIO Update automatically detects the update programs that are necessary for enhancing your computer’s performance or new software that is available, and let you download and install with simple steps.

  1. Click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Update.

Hint

  • You can also start VAIO Update from VAIO Care.

Keeping Your VAIO Computer in Optimum Condition (VAIO Care)

With VAIO Care, you can perform the following operations to keep your VAIO computer running at an optimum level.

  • Conduct regular performance checks and tune-ups.

  • Find support information (the support website URL, the contact information phone number, etc.).

  • Launch VAIO Care just by pressing the ASSIST button and search for appropriate measures if you have any problem.

  1. Press the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is on.

    VAIO Care starts.

    Refer to the help file included with VAIO Care for more information.

Hint

  • Pressing the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is off displays the VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen. VAIO Care Rescue can be used to recover the computer in case of emergency, for example, if Windows does not start.

  • Alternatively, click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Care to start VAIO Care.

Customizing Your VAIO Computer

VAIO Control Center allows you to access system information and to change settings of various kinds of functions such as display and sounds.

  1. Click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Control Center.
  2. Select your desired item and change the settings.

Hint

  • Refer to the help file included with VAIO Control Center for more information on each option.

  • Some of the items will not be visible if you log on as a user without administrative rights.

Viewing the System Information

You can view the system information of your VAIO computer.

On models which memory modules can be added or removed, for example, after installing a memory module, you can view the information to confirm system memory changes.

  1. Click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Control Center.
  2. Click System information and System information.

    The system information of your VAIO computer is displayed.

Selecting a Power Plan

Power management helps you set up power plans to suit your requirements for power consumption.

  1. Click(Start), Control Panel, Hardware and Sound, and Power Options.
  2. Select your desired power plan.
  3. If you want to change the power plan settings, click Change plan settings on the right of your desired power plan in the Power Options window.

    By clicking Change advanced power settings, you can change the advanced settings.

    Refer to Windows Help and Support for more information on the power plan settings.

Hint

  • The power status icon indicates what kind of power source your VAIO computer is currently using, and you can see the computer’s power status by clicking this icon.

Using Sleep Mode

In Sleep mode, all unnecessary devices of your VAIO computer are turned off, though some devices stay on to retain the computer’s state including data you are working on. Sleep mode is useful when you take a short rest, for example.

The power indicator light blinks slowly in orange while your VAIO computer is in this mode.

When the computer is running on battery power and a certain time has passed after the computer enters Sleep mode, the computer will enter Hibernate mode at the default setting.

To activate Sleep mode

  1. Click(Start),(arrow) next to the Shut down button, and Sleep.

To return to Normal mode

  1. Press the(Power) button.

Note

  • If you press and hold down the(Power) button for more than four seconds, your VAIO computer will turn off automatically. Doing this will erase all unsaved data.

  • If you do not intend to use your VAIO computer for an extended period of time while the computer is disconnected from an AC power source, place the computer into Sleep mode, or turn it off.

Hint

  • The operation below also place your VAIO computer into Sleep mode.

    • Press the(Power) button (with the default setting).

      Note that if you press and hold down the(Power) button for more than four seconds, your VAIO computer will turn off automatically. Doing this will erase all unsaved data.

  • By default, your VAIO computer enters Sleep mode automatically after about 30 minutes of inactivity while running on AC power.

Notes on Sleep Mode

Read the following precautions before using Sleep mode.

  • Some software applications may not support Sleep mode. When running such applications, exit them before placing your VAIO computer into Sleep mode.

  • Some USB devices may not support Sleep mode. When your VAIO computer resumes from Sleep mode, the computer may not recognize such USB devices, depending on the type and number of connected USB devices.

    If you cannot place the computer into Sleep mode, disconnect all USB devices before placing the computer into Sleep mode.

  • If your VAIO computer enters Sleep mode when Windows or the computer is unstable, it may not resume from Sleep mode. The following operations are recommended:

    • Before placing your VAIO computer into Sleep mode, save your files and close running software.

    • Shut down your VAIO computer periodically.

  • Depending on the condition of Windows, your VAIO computer cannot enter Sleep mode.

  • If your VAIO computer enters Sleep mode while running a task, such as DVD writing, the task may be suspended.

  • If the battery pack runs out of power while your VAIO computer is in Sleep mode, you will lose all unsaved data. Be sure to save data you are working on before placing the computer into Sleep mode.

Notes on Using the Power Source

Read the following precautions before plugging your VAIO computer into an AC power source.

  • If you remove the battery pack while your VAIO computer is turned on or in Sleep mode but it is disconnected from an AC power source, you may lose all unsaved data. (Removable battery pack supplied models)

  • If you leave your VAIO computer without connecting it to an AC power source for an extended period of time, place the computer into Hibernate mode or turn it off.

Notes on the AC adapter

  • Use the AC adapter supplied with your VAIO computer or genuine Sony products. Do not use any other AC adapter as it may cause a malfunction.

  • Do not connect the AC adapter to a power conversion device such as a travel power converter. It may cause overheating or a malfunction.

  • If the AC adapter cable becomes damaged or broken, do not use it.

Notes on turning on your VAIO computer

  • Because your VAIO computer contains magnetic components, keep magnetic storage media away from the computer, as it may cause data corruption.

  • Your VAIO computer will automatically enter Sleep mode (with the default settings) when you move magnetic devices closer to the computer. Keep magnetic devices away from the computer.

Using Hibernate Mode

In Hibernate mode, the current state of your VAIO computer is saved to the built-in storage device, and then the computer is turned off. Hibernate mode is useful when you do not intend to use the computer for an extended period of time.

To activate Hibernate mode

  1. Click(Start),(arrow) next to the Shut down button, and Hibernate.

To return to Normal mode

  1. Press the(Power) button.

Note

  • Note that if you press and hold down the(Power) button for more than four seconds, your VAIO computer will turn off automatically. Doing this will erase all unsaved data.

  • By default, your VAIO computer automatically enters Hibernate mode when the battery pack becomes weak. However, depending on the currently running software and connected devices, Windows may not allow their tasks to be suspended, resulting in failure to enter Hibernate mode.

    If this occurs and the battery pack is running out of power, the computer will be turned off, resulting in loss of unsaved data.

    While the computer is running on battery power, save data frequently and manually place the computer into Hibernate mode, if necessary.

  • Before moving your VAIO computer, make sure that the power indicator light is off to avoid impact or vibration to the running hard disk drive. (Built-in hard disk drive models)

Hint

  • The power indicator light is off while your VAIO computer is in Hibernate mode.

  • When the charge and power indicator lights blink simultaneously, or a low battery message appears, place your VAIO computer into Sleep mode or Hibernate mode or plug it into an AC outlet.

Selecting Display Modes

You can switch the display output between the computer screen and an external display connected to your VAIO computer.

  1. Turn on an external display.
  2. Press the Fn+F7 keys several times to select your desired display output, and then press the Enter key.

Note

  • If you disconnect a display cable (not supplied) while only an external display is selected as the display output, it is hard to operate your VAIO computer because the computer screen is blank.

    To switch the display output to the computer screen, press the Fn+F7 keys twice, and then press the Enter key.

  • The display switch may become unavailable or your VAIO computer may become unstable during video playback. Exit the video playback software before switching the display output.

  • The display switch may not be available depending on the type of external display or projector.

Using the Multiple Monitors Function

The Multiple Monitors function allows you to distribute portions of your desktop across separate displays.

For example, if you have an external display connected to the monitor port, the computer screen and the external display can function as a single desktop.

  1. Right-click on the desktop and select Screen resolution.
  2. Click the drop-down list next to Multiple Displays, select Extend these displays and click OK.

    The setting options vary depending on the number of the connected external displays.

Note

  • If you set different colors on each display, do not expand a single window across two displays, or your software may not work properly.

  • Your external display may not support the Multiple Monitors function.

  • Certain software applications may not be compatible with the Multiple Monitors settings.

  • High screen resolution and high color depth may not be displayed correctly. Set fewer colors or a lower resolution for each display.

  • Do not change the display settings while using video/image software or playing DVDs, as it may cause unsuccessful playback/display or unstable system operations.

    Change the display settings after you exit the video/image software.

Hint

  • You can set the screen resolution for each display used for the Multiple Monitors function.

Notes on the LCD screen

Read the following precautions for correct use of the LCD screen.

  • 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 the manufacturing process and does not indicate a malfunction.

  • Do not scratch the surface of the LCD screen or exert pressure on it. This could cause damage.

  • Do not exert pressure on the LCD screen lid with the lid closed as it may scratch the LCD screen or soil it.

  • The LCD screen may become warm during operation. This is normal and does not indicate a malfunction.

  • Do not leave the LCD screen facing the sun. This could damage the LCD screen. Be sure to block direct sunlight when using your VAIO computer near a window.

  • Do not exert pressure on the LCD screen or its edges. The LCD screen may be sensitive to pressure or added stress, and exerting pressure may damage the screen or cause it to malfunction.

  • Using your VAIO computer in low temperature conditions may produce a residual image on the LCD screen. This does not indicate a malfunction. When the computer returns to normal temperature, the screen returns to normal.

  • A residual image may appear on the LCD screen if the same image is displayed for an extended period of time. The residual image disappears after a while. You can use a screen saver to prevent residual images.

Connecting a TV with an HDMI Input Port

You can connect a TV with an HDMI input port to your VAIO computer with an HDMI cable (not supplied).

Refer to the manual that came with your TV for more information on installation and use.

  1. Plug the power cord of your TV into an AC outlet and turn it on.
  2. Connect one end of an HDMI cable to the HDMI output port on your VAIO computer and the other end to the TV.
  3. Set the TV input to the external input.

    The screen image of your VAIO computer is displayed on the TV.

Note

  • If a device driver other than the one provided by Sony is used, the image will not be displayed and audio will not be heard. Always use the device driver provided by Sony for updates.

  • To hear sound from a device connected to the HDMI output port, you need to change the sound output device. For detailed instructions, see Changing the Sound Output Device.

Hint

  • The HDMI output port on your VAIO computer is compliant with the High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP) standard and capable of encrypting the transmission channel of digital video signals for the purpose of copyright protection, which enables you to view a wide variety of copyright protected and high-quality content.

Changing the Resolution (Size) of the Screen Image

You can change the screen resolution to adjust the size of the characters and images on the computer screen.

Refer to Windows Help and Support for more information.

  1. Right-click on the desktop and select Screen resolution.
  2. Click the current screen resolution next to Resolution and move the slider to change the screen resolution.

Note

  • You may not be able to play high-resolution videos depending on the amount of video memory on your VAIO computer. In such a case, lower the screen resolution.

  • Do not change the display resolution while using video/image software or playing DVDs, as it may cause unsuccessful playback/display or unstable system operations.

Changing the LCD Brightness

You can adjust the LCD brightness.

  1. Press the Fn+F5 keys or Fn+F6 keys.

    To decrease lighting intensity, keep pressing the Fn+F5 keys. To increase lighting intensity, keep pressing the Fn+F6 keys.

Hint

  • The LCD brightness setting is retained even after your VAIO computer is turned off and restarted.

Changing the Resolution (Size) of the Screen Image on an HDMI-Connected Device

You can change the screen resolution or size of your VAIO computer’s screen image displayed on an external display, such as a TV, connected to the computer with an HDMI cable (not supplied).

  1. Connect your VAIO computer to an HDMI equipped TV with an HDMI cable. (See Connecting a TV with an HDMI Input Port for more information.)
  2. Turn on the TV.
  3. Double-click(HDMI Resolution Settings) in the desktop notification area.

    The settings window appears.

  4. Click the Select Resolution tab to select the desired resolution, and then click Apply.

    After a few seconds, the selected resolution is applied.

  5. If the computer image does not fit the displayable region of the TV, click the Adjust Resolution tab to adjust the display size.

Note

  • Some resolution options may not be available, depending on the model or the HDMI-connected device.

  • The function to adjust the screen resolution may be disabled depending on the selected resolution.

Adjusting the LCD Brightness Automatically (SVP112/SVP132)

Your VAIO computer measures ambient light intensity to adjust the LCD brightness automatically.

  1. Click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Control Center.
  2. Click Display and Automatic Brightness Settings.

    The settings window appears. Follow the on-screen instructions to change the settings.

Hint

  • During the setup or recovery process, the automatic brightness adjustment function may not work and the LCD brightness may change regardless of ambient light intensity.

  • Ambient light intensity is measured by the ambient light sensor. Blocking the ambient light sensor may decrease the LCD brightness.

Connecting a TV with an HDMI Input Port

You can connect a TV with an HDMI input port to your VAIO computer with an HDMI cable (not supplied).

Refer to the manual that came with your TV for more information on installation and use.

  1. Plug the power cord of your TV into an AC outlet and turn it on.
  2. Connect one end of an HDMI cable to the HDMI output port on your VAIO computer and the other end to the TV.
  3. Set the TV input to the external input.

    The screen image of your VAIO computer is displayed on the TV.

Note

  • If a device driver other than the one provided by Sony is used, the image will not be displayed and audio will not be heard. Always use the device driver provided by Sony for updates.

  • To hear sound from a device connected to the HDMI output port, you need to change the sound output device. For detailed instructions, see Changing the Sound Output Device.

Hint

  • The HDMI output port on your VAIO computer is compliant with the High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP) standard and capable of encrypting the transmission channel of digital video signals for the purpose of copyright protection, which enables you to view a wide variety of copyright protected and high-quality content.

Changing the Resolution (Size) of the Screen Image on an HDMI-Connected Device

You can change the screen resolution or size of your VAIO computer’s screen image displayed on an external display, such as a TV, connected to the computer with an HDMI cable (not supplied).

  1. Connect your VAIO computer to an HDMI equipped TV with an HDMI cable. (See Connecting a TV with an HDMI Input Port for more information.)
  2. Turn on the TV.
  3. Double-click(HDMI Resolution Settings) in the desktop notification area.

    The settings window appears.

  4. Click the Select Resolution tab to select the desired resolution, and then click Apply.

    After a few seconds, the selected resolution is applied.

  5. If the computer image does not fit the displayable region of the TV, click the Adjust Resolution tab to adjust the display size.

Note

  • Some resolution options may not be available, depending on the model or the HDMI-connected device.

  • The function to adjust the screen resolution may be disabled depending on the selected resolution.

Selecting Display Modes

You can switch the display output between the computer screen and an external display connected to your VAIO computer.

  1. Turn on an external display.
  2. Press the Fn+F7 keys several times to select your desired display output, and then press the Enter key.

Note

  • If you disconnect a display cable (not supplied) while only an external display is selected as the display output, it is hard to operate your VAIO computer because the computer screen is blank.

    To switch the display output to the computer screen, press the Fn+F7 keys twice, and then press the Enter key.

  • The display switch may become unavailable or your VAIO computer may become unstable during video playback. Exit the video playback software before switching the display output.

  • The display switch may not be available depending on the type of external display or projector.

Using the Multiple Monitors Function

The Multiple Monitors function allows you to distribute portions of your desktop across separate displays.

For example, if you have an external display connected to the monitor port, the computer screen and the external display can function as a single desktop.

  1. Right-click on the desktop and select Screen resolution.
  2. Click the drop-down list next to Multiple Displays, select Extend these displays and click OK.

    The setting options vary depending on the number of the connected external displays.

Note

  • If you set different colors on each display, do not expand a single window across two displays, or your software may not work properly.

  • Your external display may not support the Multiple Monitors function.

  • Certain software applications may not be compatible with the Multiple Monitors settings.

  • High screen resolution and high color depth may not be displayed correctly. Set fewer colors or a lower resolution for each display.

  • Do not change the display settings while using video/image software or playing DVDs, as it may cause unsuccessful playback/display or unstable system operations.

    Change the display settings after you exit the video/image software.

Hint

  • You can set the screen resolution for each display used for the Multiple Monitors function.

Notes on the LCD screen

Read the following precautions for correct use of the LCD screen.

  • 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 the manufacturing process and does not indicate a malfunction.

  • Do not scratch the surface of the LCD screen or exert pressure on it. This could cause damage.

  • Do not exert pressure on the LCD screen lid with the lid closed as it may scratch the LCD screen or soil it.

  • The LCD screen may become warm during operation. This is normal and does not indicate a malfunction.

  • Do not leave the LCD screen facing the sun. This could damage the LCD screen. Be sure to block direct sunlight when using your VAIO computer near a window.

  • Do not exert pressure on the LCD screen or its edges. The LCD screen may be sensitive to pressure or added stress, and exerting pressure may damage the screen or cause it to malfunction.

  • Using your VAIO computer in low temperature conditions may produce a residual image on the LCD screen. This does not indicate a malfunction. When the computer returns to normal temperature, the screen returns to normal.

  • A residual image may appear on the LCD screen if the same image is displayed for an extended period of time. The residual image disappears after a while. You can use a screen saver to prevent residual images.

Changing the Sound Output Device

If there is no sound from the device connected to your VAIO computer, you need to change the device for sound output.

  1. Click(Start) and Control Panel.
  2. Click Hardware and Sound.
  3. Click Sound.
  4. Click the Playback tab.
  5. Ensure there is a check mark next to the icon of the device you intend to output computer sound from.

    If there is no check mark next to the icon, select it and click Set Default.

  6. Click OK.

To change the sound rate and bit depth

The sound rate and bit depth of the digital audio output signal should be set according to your digital audio device.

Follow the above steps 1 to 4, and then select the icon of your HDMI device and click Properties. On the Advanced tab, select the sample rate and bit depth (for example, 16 bit, 48000 Hz (DVD quality)) which the device supports, and then click OK.

Connecting a High-Quality Digital Sound Output Device between Your VAIO Computer and a TV

You can connect a high-quality home theater receiver or other surround sound decoder devices between your VAIO computer and a TV using an HDMI connection.

  1. Make sure the HDMI connection has been set up between the TV and the home theater receiver or surround sound decoder device.
  2. Change the device for sound output to the HDMI output. (See Changing the Sound Output Device for more information.)
  3. Turn on the TV and set its input to the HDMI input.
  4. Turn on the home theater receiver or surround sound decoder device and set its input to the HDMI input.
  5. Plug one end of an HDMI cable to the HDMI input port on the home theater receiver or surround sound decoder device and the other end to the HDMI output port on your VAIO computer.

Hint

Connecting a TV with an HDMI Input Port

You can connect a TV with an HDMI input port to your VAIO computer with an HDMI cable (not supplied).

Refer to the manual that came with your TV for more information on installation and use.

  1. Plug the power cord of your TV into an AC outlet and turn it on.
  2. Connect one end of an HDMI cable to the HDMI output port on your VAIO computer and the other end to the TV.
  3. Set the TV input to the external input.

    The screen image of your VAIO computer is displayed on the TV.

Note

  • If a device driver other than the one provided by Sony is used, the image will not be displayed and audio will not be heard. Always use the device driver provided by Sony for updates.

  • To hear sound from a device connected to the HDMI output port, you need to change the sound output device. For detailed instructions, see Changing the Sound Output Device.

Hint

  • The HDMI output port on your VAIO computer is compliant with the High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP) standard and capable of encrypting the transmission channel of digital video signals for the purpose of copyright protection, which enables you to view a wide variety of copyright protected and high-quality content.

Booting Your VAIO Computer from External Devices

You can boot your VAIO computer from external devices, such as an optical disc drive, a USB floppy disk drive, or a USB flash drive by using the BIOS function.

  1. Connect an external device to your VAIO computer.
  2. Press the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is off.

    The VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen appears.

  3. Click Start from media (USB device/optical disc).

    The booting process from the external device starts.

Note

  • Disconnect all devices from your VAIO computer except for the external device from which you intend to boot up. Some devices cannot be used to boot the computer, or cannot be used with the computer.

  • If an AC adapter is supplied with the external device, be sure to connect it to an AC power source in advance.

Hint

  • If the display language selection window appears, select your desired language and click OK.

Restricting the Use of Built-in Devices (SVP112/SVP132)

The BIOS function enables you to disable the built-in devices such as those listed below. You can use this function to prohibit external connections and communications.

  • USB Ports

  • Memory Card Slot

  • Optical Disc Drive (Optical disc drive equipped models)

  • Wireless Device

  • LAN Device (LAN port equipped models)

  1. Press the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is off.

    The VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen appears.

  2. Select Start BIOS setup.

    Enter a password if it has already been set.

    The BIOS setup screen appears.

  3. Press theorkey to select the Advanced tab.
  4. Press theorkey to select your desired built-in device and press the Enter key.
  5. Press theorkey to select Disabled or Enabled and press the Enter key.

    • When you select Disabled:

      The selected device is disabled.

    • When you select Enabled:

      The selected device is enabled and can be used on your VAIO computer.

  6. Press theorkey to select the Exit tab, select Exit Setup, and then press the Enter key.

    At the confirmation prompt, press the Enter key.

Note

  • Devices you can disable vary depending on the model.

Hint

  • If the display language selection window appears, select your desired language and click OK.

Adjusting the Speakers Volume

You can change the volume level of the speakers and headphones.

To adjust the volume using the Fn key

Press the F3 key while holding down the Fn key to turn down the volume. Press the F4 key while holding down the Fn key to turn up the volume.

To turn off the volume using the Fn key

Press the F2 key while holding down the Fn key to turn off the volume of the speakers and headphones.

Press the Fn+F2 keys again to turn on the volume.

Alternatively, press the Fn+F3 or Fn+F4 keys to turn on the volume.

Changing the Sound Output Device

If there is no sound from the device connected to your VAIO computer, you need to change the device for sound output.

  1. Click(Start) and Control Panel.
  2. Click Hardware and Sound.
  3. Click Sound.
  4. Click the Playback tab.
  5. Ensure there is a check mark next to the icon of the device you intend to output computer sound from.

    If there is no check mark next to the icon, select it and click Set Default.

  6. Click OK.

To change the sound rate and bit depth

The sound rate and bit depth of the digital audio output signal should be set according to your digital audio device.

Follow the above steps 1 to 4, and then select the icon of your HDMI device and click Properties. On the Advanced tab, select the sample rate and bit depth (for example, 16 bit, 48000 Hz (DVD quality)) which the device supports, and then click OK.

Adjusting the Volume in Windows

You can adjust the volume on each software application from the Control Panel window.

  1. Click(Start) and Control Panel.
  2. Click Hardware and Sound.
  3. Click Adjust system volume under Sound.
  4. Move a slider in Device up and down to your desired volume level.

    When the volume is turned off (), click(Deactivate muting) to turn on the volume (). When the volume has been minimized, turn the volume up with the slider.

To turn off the Windows startup sound

Follow the above steps 1 and 2, and then click Sound. On the Sounds tab, click to clear the Play Windows Startup sound check box and OK.

Connecting a High-Quality Digital Sound Output Device between Your VAIO Computer and a TV

You can connect a high-quality home theater receiver or other surround sound decoder devices between your VAIO computer and a TV using an HDMI connection.

  1. Make sure the HDMI connection has been set up between the TV and the home theater receiver or surround sound decoder device.
  2. Change the device for sound output to the HDMI output. (See Changing the Sound Output Device for more information.)
  3. Turn on the TV and set its input to the HDMI input.
  4. Turn on the home theater receiver or surround sound decoder device and set its input to the HDMI input.
  5. Plug one end of an HDMI cable to the HDMI input port on the home theater receiver or surround sound decoder device and the other end to the HDMI output port on your VAIO computer.

Hint

Adjusting the Microphone Volume

You can adjust the volume level of the microphone.

  1. Click(Start) and Control Panel.
  2. Click Hardware and Sound.
  3. Click Sound.
  4. Click the Recording tab.
  5. Double-click the microphone icon.
  6. Click the Levels tab in the Microphone Properties window.
  7. Move the slider in Microphone right and left to your desired volume level.

    If the microphone volume is still not loud enough even at the maximum volume level, move the slider in Microphone Boost right and left to adjust the volume level.

  8. Click OK.

Adjusting the Speakers Volume

You can change the volume level of the speakers and headphones.

To adjust the volume using the Fn key

Press the F3 key while holding down the Fn key to turn down the volume. Press the F4 key while holding down the Fn key to turn up the volume.

To turn off the volume using the Fn key

Press the F2 key while holding down the Fn key to turn off the volume of the speakers and headphones.

Press the Fn+F2 keys again to turn on the volume.

Alternatively, press the Fn+F3 or Fn+F4 keys to turn on the volume.

Adjusting the Microphone Volume

You can adjust the volume level of the microphone.

  1. Click(Start) and Control Panel.
  2. Click Hardware and Sound.
  3. Click Sound.
  4. Click the Recording tab.
  5. Double-click the microphone icon.
  6. Click the Levels tab in the Microphone Properties window.
  7. Move the slider in Microphone right and left to your desired volume level.

    If the microphone volume is still not loud enough even at the maximum volume level, move the slider in Microphone Boost right and left to adjust the volume level.

  8. Click OK.

Connecting a High-Quality Digital Sound Output Device between Your VAIO Computer and a TV

You can connect a high-quality home theater receiver or other surround sound decoder devices between your VAIO computer and a TV using an HDMI connection.

  1. Make sure the HDMI connection has been set up between the TV and the home theater receiver or surround sound decoder device.
  2. Change the device for sound output to the HDMI output. (See Changing the Sound Output Device for more information.)
  3. Turn on the TV and set its input to the HDMI input.
  4. Turn on the home theater receiver or surround sound decoder device and set its input to the HDMI input.
  5. Plug one end of an HDMI cable to the HDMI input port on the home theater receiver or surround sound decoder device and the other end to the HDMI output port on your VAIO computer.

Hint

About the ASSIST Button

Press the ASSIST button to perform regular maintenance of your VAIO computer or to solve problems you might encounter when using the computer.

While the computer is on, the ASSIST button starts VAIO Care.

While the computer is off, the ASSIST button displays the VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen.

VAIO Care Rescue can be used to recover the computer in case of emergency, for example, when Windows does not start.

About the ASSIST Button

Press the ASSIST button to perform regular maintenance of your VAIO computer or to solve problems you might encounter when using the computer.

While the computer is on, the ASSIST button starts VAIO Care.

While the computer is off, the ASSIST button displays the VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen.

VAIO Care Rescue can be used to recover the computer in case of emergency, for example, when Windows does not start.

Changing the Backlit Keyboard Settings (Backlit keyboard supplied models)

You can turn on and off the keyboard backlight by changing the backlit keyboard settings.

  1. Click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Control Center.
  2. Click Keyboard and Mouse and Backlit Keyboard.

    The settings window appears. Follow the on-screen instructions to change the settings.

Hint

  • For SVP112/SVP132, you can set the keyboard backlight to automatically turn on and off according to ambient light intensity.

    If you enable this function, you can also set a time period to turn off the keyboard backlight after inactivity of keyboard operations.

  • For SVP112/SVP132, ambient light intensity is measured by the ambient light sensor. Blocking the ambient light sensor may turn on the keyboard backlight.

Using the Touch Pad

By sliding your finger on the touch pad, you can move the pointer on the computer screen.

With the pointer on your desired item or object, press the left button zone or the right button zone to execute various commands or display menus.

  1. Left button zone

  2. Right button zone

To click

With the pointer on your desired item or object, press the left button zone once.

Alternatively, tap on the touch pad once.

To double-click

With the pointer on your desired item or object, press the left button zone twice quickly.

Alternatively, tap on the touch pad twice quickly.

To right-click

With the pointer on your desired item or object, press the right button zone once.

Depending on the location of the pointer, you can display various shortcut menus.

To drag

With the pointer on your desired item or object, press the left button zone once, and while holding down the zone, slide your finger on the touch pad.

Alternatively, tap on the touch pad twice quickly, and on the second tap, slide your finger.

To drag and drop

Drag an icon, such as a file, to a folder, a window, or a software icon and release your finger from the left button zone.

Alternatively, tap the icon twice quickly, and on the second tap, slide your finger to your desired location and lift the finger off the touch pad.

To scroll

Slide two fingers up and down on the touch pad to scroll vertically in the active window.

Slide two fingers from side to side on the touch pad to scroll horizontally in the active window.

To back or forward without moving the pointer

On the software that supports the back/forward function, such as a web browser, put three fingers on the touch pad and slide them from side to side to perform the back/forward operation without moving the pointer.

To zoom in or out

With some software applications, such as a photo viewer, pinch on the touch pad with two fingers for zooming. Pinch open to zoom in or pinch close to zoom out.

To rotate

With some software applications, such as a photo viewer, slide two fingers in a circle on the touch pad to rotate an image.

Slide the fingers counterclockwise to rotate left and slide them clockwise to rotate right.

Note

  • The multi-touch function (scroll, back/forward, zoom in/zoom out, rotate) may not work depending on the software you are using or the touch pad settings.

Hint

  • The shape of the touch pad varies depending on the model you purchased.

  • For detailed information on how to use the touch pad, click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Control Center, and follow the instruction video on VAIO Control Center.

Disabling the Tapping Function on the Touch Pad

You can disable the tapping function to avoid unintentional clicks caused by a light touch on the touch pad during the keyboard operations.

  1. Click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Control Center.
  2. Click Keyboard and Mouse and Touchpad.
  3. Click to clear the Enable tap functions check box.
  4. Click OK.

Enabling/Disabling the Touch Pad

You can enable/disable the touch pad on your VAIO computer.

  1. Press and hold down the Fn key and press the F1 key.

    Each time you press the keys, the touch pad is enabled/disabled.

Hint

  • Be sure to connect a mouse before disabling the touch pad. If you disable the touch pad before connecting a mouse, you will be able to use only the keyboard for pointing operations.

Enabling/Disabling the Multi-Touch Function

You can enable/disable the multi-touch function of the touch pad on your VAIO computer.

With the multi-touch function, you can perform the following operations.

  • Scroll

  • Back/Forward

  • Zoom in/Zoom out

  • Rotate

Follow these steps to enable/disable the gesture function.

  1. Click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Control Center.
  2. Click Keyboard and Mouse and Touchpad.
  3. Click to select or clear the Enable multi-touch functions check box.

    Select the check box to enable the function or clear it to disable the function.

Using the Antivirus Software for Your VAIO Computer

Protect your VAIO computer against computer viruses by using the antivirus software.

You can keep the antivirus software current with the latest updates by downloading and installing the updates from the website of the software publisher. To update the antivirus software, find the antivirus software installed on your VAIO computer from the following and follow these steps.

  1. Make sure your VAIO computer is connected to the Internet.
  2. Perform any of these operations according to the preinstalled antivirus app.

    For Trend Micro:

    Click(Start), All Programs, Trend Micro Titanium Maximum Security, and Trend Micro Titanium Maximum Security.

    For McAfee:

    Click(Start), All Programs, McAfee, and McAfee Internet Security or McAfee Total Protection.

    For Kaspersky Internet Security:

    Click(Start), All Programs, Kaspersky Internet Security, and Kaspersky Internet Security.

  3. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Note

  • The actual procedure may be different from the above depending on the version of the software installed on your VAIO computer. In such a case, follow the on-screen instructions.

Hint

  • Refer to the help file included with your software for more information.

Setting/Changing the Power-on Password

You can set a password (power-on password) for booting up your VAIO computer, using the BIOS function. Entry of the power-on password will be prompted after the VAIO logo appears to start the computer.

There are two types of passwords. Set the machine password first.

  • Machine password (for administrators):

    Allows users with administrative rights to change all the setup options in the BIOS setup screen, as well as to start your VAIO computer.

  • User password (for users without administrative rights):

    Allows standard users to change some of the BIOS setup options, as well as to start your VAIO computer. To set the user password, you must first set the machine password.

  1. Press the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is off.

    The VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen appears.

  2. Click Start BIOS setup.

    Enter a password if it has already been set.

    The BIOS setup screen appears.

  3. Press theorkey to select the Security tab, select Set Machine Password or Set User Password, and then press the Enter key.

    The password entry screen appears.

  4. Enter the password and press the Enter key.

    To change the password, enter the current password and a new password. The password can be set up to 32 alphanumeric characters long (including spaces) and it is case-sensitive.

  5. Press theorkey to select Password when Power On, press the Enter key, and select Enabled.
  6. Press theorkey to select the Exit tab, select Exit Setup, and then press the Enter key.
  7. At the confirmation prompt, press the Enter key.

Note

  • Be sure to write down the password to avoid forgetting it.

  • If you forget the password, you cannot boot up your VAIO computer.

  • You can reset the user password at the BIOS setup screen by entering the machine password.

  • If you forget the machine password, the password must be reset by authorized Sony service/support center. (The reset fee will be charged.)

Hint

  • If the display language selection window appears, select your desired language and click OK.

Removing the Power-on Password

If power-on password input for booting up your VAIO computer is no longer necessary, follow these steps to remove the machine password and user password.

  1. Press the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is off.

    The VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen appears.

  2. Click Start BIOS setup.

    Enter a password if it has already been set.

    The BIOS setup screen appears.

  3. Press theorkey to select the Security tab, select Set Machine Password or Set User Password, and then press the Enter key.

    The password entry screen appears.

  4. Leave the Enter New Password and Confirm New Password fields blank and press the Enter key.
  5. Press theorkey to select the Exit tab, select Exit Setup, and then press the Enter key.

    At the confirmation prompt, press the Enter key.

Hint

  • If the display language selection window appears, select your desired language and click OK.

Creating/Changing/Removing Your Windows Password

Setting a Windows password allows you to protect your VAIO computer from unauthorized access by making the user enter the password when the computer is turned on or returns from power saving mode to Normal mode.

Refer to Windows Help and Support for more information on 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 Create a password for your account, Change your password, or Remove your password.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions to enter your password, and then press the Enter key.

Note

  • Do not forget your password. Write down the password and keep it in a secure place.

Hint

  • You can enter a hint in order to recall your password if you forget it. You can also create a password reset disc that can be used to create a new password. Refer to Windows Help and Support for more information on the Windows password.

Viewing the System Information

You can view the system information of your VAIO computer.

On models which memory modules can be added or removed, for example, after installing a memory module, you can view the information to confirm system memory changes.

  1. Click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Control Center.
  2. Click System information and System information.

    The system information of your VAIO computer is displayed.

Setting/Changing the Power-on Password

You can set a password (power-on password) for booting up your VAIO computer, using the BIOS function. Entry of the power-on password will be prompted after the VAIO logo appears to start the computer.

There are two types of passwords. Set the machine password first.

  • Machine password (for administrators):

    Allows users with administrative rights to change all the setup options in the BIOS setup screen, as well as to start your VAIO computer.

  • User password (for users without administrative rights):

    Allows standard users to change some of the BIOS setup options, as well as to start your VAIO computer. To set the user password, you must first set the machine password.

  1. Press the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is off.

    The VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen appears.

  2. Click Start BIOS setup.

    Enter a password if it has already been set.

    The BIOS setup screen appears.

  3. Press theorkey to select the Security tab, select Set Machine Password or Set User Password, and then press the Enter key.

    The password entry screen appears.

  4. Enter the password and press the Enter key.

    To change the password, enter the current password and a new password. The password can be set up to 32 alphanumeric characters long (including spaces) and it is case-sensitive.

  5. Press theorkey to select Password when Power On, press the Enter key, and select Enabled.
  6. Press theorkey to select the Exit tab, select Exit Setup, and then press the Enter key.
  7. At the confirmation prompt, press the Enter key.

Note

  • Be sure to write down the password to avoid forgetting it.

  • If you forget the password, you cannot boot up your VAIO computer.

  • You can reset the user password at the BIOS setup screen by entering the machine password.

  • If you forget the machine password, the password must be reset by authorized Sony service/support center. (The reset fee will be charged.)

Hint

  • If the display language selection window appears, select your desired language and click OK.

Booting Your VAIO Computer from External Devices

You can boot your VAIO computer from external devices, such as an optical disc drive, a USB floppy disk drive, or a USB flash drive by using the BIOS function.

  1. Connect an external device to your VAIO computer.
  2. Press the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is off.

    The VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen appears.

  3. Click Start from media (USB device/optical disc).

    The booting process from the external device starts.

Note

  • Disconnect all devices from your VAIO computer except for the external device from which you intend to boot up. Some devices cannot be used to boot the computer, or cannot be used with the computer.

  • If an AC adapter is supplied with the external device, be sure to connect it to an AC power source in advance.

Hint

  • If the display language selection window appears, select your desired language and click OK.

Removing the Power-on Password

If power-on password input for booting up your VAIO computer is no longer necessary, follow these steps to remove the machine password and user password.

  1. Press the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is off.

    The VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen appears.

  2. Click Start BIOS setup.

    Enter a password if it has already been set.

    The BIOS setup screen appears.

  3. Press theorkey to select the Security tab, select Set Machine Password or Set User Password, and then press the Enter key.

    The password entry screen appears.

  4. Leave the Enter New Password and Confirm New Password fields blank and press the Enter key.
  5. Press theorkey to select the Exit tab, select Exit Setup, and then press the Enter key.

    At the confirmation prompt, press the Enter key.

Hint

  • If the display language selection window appears, select your desired language and click OK.

About the ASSIST Button

Press the ASSIST button to perform regular maintenance of your VAIO computer or to solve problems you might encounter when using the computer.

While the computer is on, the ASSIST button starts VAIO Care.

While the computer is off, the ASSIST button displays the VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen.

VAIO Care Rescue can be used to recover the computer in case of emergency, for example, when Windows does not start.

Restricting the Use of Built-in Devices (SVP112/SVP132)

The BIOS function enables you to disable the built-in devices such as those listed below. You can use this function to prohibit external connections and communications.

  • USB Ports

  • Memory Card Slot

  • Optical Disc Drive (Optical disc drive equipped models)

  • Wireless Device

  • LAN Device (LAN port equipped models)

  1. Press the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is off.

    The VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen appears.

  2. Select Start BIOS setup.

    Enter a password if it has already been set.

    The BIOS setup screen appears.

  3. Press theorkey to select the Advanced tab.
  4. Press theorkey to select your desired built-in device and press the Enter key.
  5. Press theorkey to select Disabled or Enabled and press the Enter key.

    • When you select Disabled:

      The selected device is disabled.

    • When you select Enabled:

      The selected device is enabled and can be used on your VAIO computer.

  6. Press theorkey to select the Exit tab, select Exit Setup, and then press the Enter key.

    At the confirmation prompt, press the Enter key.

Note

  • Devices you can disable vary depending on the model.

Hint

  • If the display language selection window appears, select your desired language and click OK.

Updating Your VAIO Computer

Be sure to update your VAIO computer with the following software applications to enhance the computer’s efficiency, security, and functionality.

Note

  • Your VAIO computer must be connected to the Internet to download the updates.

Windows Update

Windows Update enables you to make your VAIO computer more stable.

  1. Click(Start), All Programs, and Windows Update.

  2. Follow the on-screen instructions.

VAIO Update

VAIO Update automatically notifies you of new updates available on the Internet, and downloads and installs them on your VAIO computer.

  1. Click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Update.

  2. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Using VAIO Update

VAIO Update provides a service that informs you of available update information, such as important notices or update programs, to keep your VAIO computer up to date.

Through the Internet, VAIO Update automatically detects the update programs that are necessary for enhancing your computer’s performance or new software that is available, and let you download and install with simple steps.

  1. Click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Update.

Hint

  • You can also start VAIO Update from VAIO Care.

Keeping Your VAIO Computer in Optimum Condition (VAIO Care)

With VAIO Care, you can perform the following operations to keep your VAIO computer running at an optimum level.

  • Conduct regular performance checks and tune-ups.

  • Find support information (the support website URL, the contact information phone number, etc.).

  • Launch VAIO Care just by pressing the ASSIST button and search for appropriate measures if you have any problem.

  1. Press the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is on.

    VAIO Care starts.

    Refer to the help file included with VAIO Care for more information.

Hint

  • Pressing the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is off displays the VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen. VAIO Care Rescue can be used to recover the computer in case of emergency, for example, if Windows does not start.

  • Alternatively, click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Care to start VAIO Care.

Notes on Using the TPM (TPM security chip equipped models)

Before using the Trusted Platform Module (TPM), read the following precautions for correct use.

Notes on the BIOS settings

  • Resetting the TPM settings in the BIOS setup screen makes your TPM-encrypted data inaccessible. If you have the TPM-encrypted data, make a backup copy before resetting the settings, if needed.

  • Before enabling the TPM in the BIOS setup screen, set the BIOS password to prevent unauthorized users from changing the TPM settings. See Setting/Changing the Power-on Password for more information.

Notes on data management with the TPM

  • The TPM security feature on your VAIO computer does not ensure complete security of your data and hardware.

  • Sony assumes no liability for any problems and damage arising out of your use of or inability to use the TPM.

  • Back up your data on the TPM or the built-in storage device before sending your VAIO computer for repair, and keep your backup data private from other users.

    Sony assumes no liability for any data loss arising out of repairs.

  • The TPM will also be replaced if your computer motherboard needs replacement during the course of repair.

  • Perform the operation and maintenance of the TPM-related data at your own risk. Sony assumes no liability for any problems arising out of your operation and maintenance.

Encrypting Your Data with the TPM (BitLocker) (TPM security chip equipped models) (BitLocker supported models)

On models with Windows 7 Ultimate or Windows 7 Enterprise, you can use BitLocker to encrypt all the data on the built-in storage device.

Refer to Windows Help and Support for more information on the BitLocker settings and operations.

To unlock the BitLocker-protected drive with a USB flash drive, follow these steps:

  1. Press the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is off.

    The VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen appears.

  2. Click Start BIOS setup.

    The BIOS setup screen appears.

  3. Press theorkey to select the Security tab and change the Change TPM State setting to Enable.
  4. Press theorkey to select Boot and change the External Device Boot setting to Enabled.
  5. Change the boot device order to put Internal Hard Disk Drive in Boot Priority before External Device.
  6. Press theorkey to select Exit, select Exit Setup, and then press the Enter key.
  7. When the confirmation prompt appears after your VAIO computer restarts, select Execute.
  8. Refer to Windows Help and Support to enable BitLocker.
  9. Save a password on the USB flash drive in the recovery password save window.

    Then, follow the on-screen instructions to restart your VAIO computer. After the computer restarts, the BitLocker encryption starts.

Note

  • After you update the BIOS settings using VAIO Update, the BIOS settings are restored to the default. In this case, you need to repeat the above steps.

  • It takes several hours to complete the BitLocker encryption.

  • Do not encrypt an external device containing the recovery password, such as a USB flash drive, using Windows BitLocker Drive Encryption.

Notes on Using the TPM (TPM security chip equipped models)

Before using the Trusted Platform Module (TPM), read the following precautions for correct use.

Notes on the BIOS settings

  • Resetting the TPM settings in the BIOS setup screen makes your TPM-encrypted data inaccessible. If you have the TPM-encrypted data, make a backup copy before resetting the settings, if needed.

  • Before enabling the TPM in the BIOS setup screen, set the BIOS password to prevent unauthorized users from changing the TPM settings. See Setting/Changing the Power-on Password for more information.

Notes on data management with the TPM

  • The TPM security feature on your VAIO computer does not ensure complete security of your data and hardware.

  • Sony assumes no liability for any problems and damage arising out of your use of or inability to use the TPM.

  • Back up your data on the TPM or the built-in storage device before sending your VAIO computer for repair, and keep your backup data private from other users.

    Sony assumes no liability for any data loss arising out of repairs.

  • The TPM will also be replaced if your computer motherboard needs replacement during the course of repair.

  • Perform the operation and maintenance of the TPM-related data at your own risk. Sony assumes no liability for any problems arising out of your operation and maintenance.

Encrypting Your Data with the TPM (BitLocker) (TPM security chip equipped models) (BitLocker supported models)

On models with Windows 7 Ultimate or Windows 7 Enterprise, you can use BitLocker to encrypt all the data on the built-in storage device.

Refer to Windows Help and Support for more information on the BitLocker settings and operations.

To unlock the BitLocker-protected drive with a USB flash drive, follow these steps:

  1. Press the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is off.

    The VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen appears.

  2. Click Start BIOS setup.

    The BIOS setup screen appears.

  3. Press theorkey to select the Security tab and change the Change TPM State setting to Enable.
  4. Press theorkey to select Boot and change the External Device Boot setting to Enabled.
  5. Change the boot device order to put Internal Hard Disk Drive in Boot Priority before External Device.
  6. Press theorkey to select Exit, select Exit Setup, and then press the Enter key.
  7. When the confirmation prompt appears after your VAIO computer restarts, select Execute.
  8. Refer to Windows Help and Support to enable BitLocker.
  9. Save a password on the USB flash drive in the recovery password save window.

    Then, follow the on-screen instructions to restart your VAIO computer. After the computer restarts, the BitLocker encryption starts.

Note

  • After you update the BIOS settings using VAIO Update, the BIOS settings are restored to the default. In this case, you need to repeat the above steps.

  • It takes several hours to complete the BitLocker encryption.

  • Do not encrypt an external device containing the recovery password, such as a USB flash drive, using Windows BitLocker Drive Encryption.

Updating Your VAIO Computer

Be sure to update your VAIO computer with the following software applications to enhance the computer’s efficiency, security, and functionality.

Note

  • Your VAIO computer must be connected to the Internet to download the updates.

Windows Update

Windows Update enables you to make your VAIO computer more stable.

  1. Click(Start), All Programs, and Windows Update.

  2. Follow the on-screen instructions.

VAIO Update

VAIO Update automatically notifies you of new updates available on the Internet, and downloads and installs them on your VAIO computer.

  1. Click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Update.

  2. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Inserting a Disc (Optical disc drive equipped models)

Insert a disc to your VAIO computer that is turned on.

  1. Press the drive eject button.

    The drive tray slides out.

  2. Insert a disc to your VAIO computer.

    Hold the bottom of the drive tray with one hand, place a disc in the middle of the drive tray, and gently push it down until the disc clicks into place. If the disc is not properly placed when you close the drive tray, it may become unable to open.

    Place the disc with the label side facing upward.

  3. Close the drive tray by pushing it in gently.

Note

  • Do not exert pressure on the drive tray when placing a disc.

Hint

  • The location of the drive eject button varies depending on the model you purchased. It is located on the front or side of your VAIO computer.

About Region Codes (Optical disc drive equipped models)

The following is a list of DVD region codes indicating playable regions of DVD media.

You can check the region codes of DVD media sold in the following countries or regions.

  1. USA, Canada
  2. Europe, Middle East, South Africa, Japan
  3. Southeast Asia, Taiwan, South Korea, Hong Kong
  4. Central America, South America, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand
  5. North Africa, Asia, Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, India
  6. China
  7. Reserved for future use
  8. International aircraft, international cruise ship, international conference hall, etc.

If it is your first time to play a DVD video on your VAIO computer, follow these steps before inserting the disc:

  1. Click(Start) and Computer.

  2. Right-click the optical disc drive icon and select Properties.

  3. Click the Hardware tab.
  4. Select your optical disc drive from the All disk drives list and click Properties.
  5. Click the DVD Region tab.
  6. Select an appropriate region from the list and click OK.

Note

  • You can change the region code only a limited number of times. When you have exceeded this number, the drive’s region code is permanently assigned and you will not be able to change it again. Reconfiguring your VAIO computer does not reset this count.

  • Any difficulties caused by changing the region code settings of the drive are not covered by the warranty.

Supported Discs (Optical disc drive equipped models)

This topic explains media types that are playable/recordable on your VAIO computer.

The installed optical disc drive varies depending on the model you purchased. Check the specifications before use.

For DVD SuperMulti Drive equipped models

The optical disc drive supports playback and/or recording of the following media.

Playback and recording

  • CD-R/RW*1

  • DVD-R/RW

  • DVD+R/RW

  • DVD+R DL (Double Layer)

  • DVD-R DL (Dual Layer)

  • DVD-RAM*2*3

Playback only

  • CD-ROM

  • DVD-ROM

For Blu-ray Disc(TM) Drive with DVD SuperMulti equipped models

The optical disc drive supports playback and/or recording of the following media.

Playback and recording

  • CD-R/RW*1

  • DVD-R/RW

  • DVD+R/RW

  • DVD+R DL (Double Layer)

  • DVD-R DL (Dual Layer)

  • DVD-RAM*2*3

  • BD-R SL (Single Layer)/DL (Dual Layer), BD-RE SL/DL*4

  • BD-R TL (Triple Layer), BD-RE TL*5

Playback only

  • CD-ROM

  • DVD-ROM

  • BD-ROM

For Blu-ray Disc(TM) ROM Drive with DVD SuperMulti equipped models

The optical disc drive supports playback and/or recording of the following media.

Playback and recording

  • CD-R/RW*1

  • DVD-R/RW

  • DVD+R/RW

  • DVD+R DL (Double Layer)

  • DVD-R DL (Dual Layer)

  • DVD-RAM*2*3

Playback only

  • CD-ROM

  • DVD-ROM

  • BD-R SL (Single Layer)/DL (Dual Layer), BD-RE SL/DL*4

  • BD-ROM

*1 Writing data to Ultra Speed CD-RW media is not supported.

*2 The optical disc drive does not support the DVD-RAM cartridge. Use non-cartridge discs or discs with a removable cartridge.

*3 Writing data to single-sided DVD-RAM media (2.6 GB) compliant with DVD-RAM Version 1.0 is not supported. DVD-RAM Version 2.2/12X-SPEED DVD-RAM Revision 5.0 media are not supported.

*4 BD-RE Disc media in Version 1.0 format and Blu-ray Disc media with a cartridge are not supported.

*5 Available when the optical disc drive supports BDXL(TM) media. Some software may not support playback and/or recording of BD-R TL/BD-RE TL media, and the preinstalled software vary depending on the model you purchased. Refer to the help files included with the software for more information. Other players may not support playback of BD R TL/BD-RE TL media on which you recorded data with your VAIO computer. Make sure your player supports BD R TL/BD-RE TL media.

Note

  • Your optical disc drive may not support writing or playback of some types of media.

  • Your optical disc drive does not support 8 cm disc writing.

  • Your optical disc drive supports only circular discs. Do not use discs in any other shape (star, heart, card, etc.) or damaged discs, as it may cause your VAIO computer to malfunction.

  • DVD-Video format data can be written to DVD+R (single layer or dual layer), DVD+RW/DVD-R (single layer or dual layer), and DVD-RW media. DVD-Video Recording format data can be written to DVD-R (single layer or dual layer), DVD-RW, and DVD-RAM media. Writable media differ depending on the disc burning software you use. Refer to the help file included with the software for more information.

  • It is recommended that you use Sony branded media: DVD+R, DVD+RW, DVD-R, DVD-RW, CD-R, CD-RW, BD-R, or BD-RE.

  • You cannot write data to DVD-RW media (6x writing) unless your optical disc drive supports at least 6x writing for DVD-RW media.

  • You cannot write data to DVD+RW media (8x writing) unless your optical disc drive supports at least 8x writing for DVD+RW media.

  • Your VAIO computer is designed to playback discs that conform to the Compact Disc (CD) standard. DualDiscs and some music discs encoded with copyright protection technologies do not conform to the CD standard. Therefore, these discs may not be compatible with the computer.

  • When you buy pre-recorded or blank discs for use with your VAIO computer, be sure to read the notices on the disc package carefully to check both playback and recording compatibility with your computer’s optical disc drives. Sony does NOT guarantee the compatibility of VAIO optical disc drives with discs that are not compliant with the official "CD," "DVD," or "Blu-ray Disc" standard. USING NON-COMPLIANT DISCS CAN CAUSE FATAL DAMAGE TO YOUR VAIO COMPUTER OR CREATE SOFTWARE CONFLICTS AND CAUSE SYSTEM HANGING.

    For inquiries about disc formats, contact the individual publisher of the pre-recorded disc or the manufacturer of the recordable disc.

  • Your VAIO computer needs to be connected to the Internet to play DVD-RW, DVD-RAM, and DVD-R (single layer or dual layer) media that are compliant with the Content Protection for Recordable Media (CPRM) standard.

  • To record, edit, or play copyright protected content, Blu-ray Disc media employs the Advanced Access Content System (AACS) technology. To use Blu-ray Disc media continually, you need to update the AACS key.

  • You can update the AACS key through the Internet. Follow a message displayed on recording, editing, or playback software you are using. Without updating the AACS key, you may become unable to record, edit, or play copyright protected content.

    To record, edit, or play content without copyright protection, you do not need to update the AACS key. You can update the AACS key for the Blu-ray Disc recording or playback software installed on your VAIO computer for five years after purchase. After that, we will inform you about the update on the support website.

  • Region settings are required for some contents of DVD and BD-ROM Disc media. If the region setting on the optical disc drive does not match the region code on the disc, playback is not possible.

  • Unless your external display is compliant with the High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP) standard, you cannot play or view the contents of copyright protected Blu-ray Disc media through an HDMI connection.

  • Some Blu-ray Disc content may restrict video output to standard definition or prohibit analog video output.

Removing a Disc (Optical disc drive equipped models)

Remove a disc from your VAIO computer that is turned on.

  1. Press the drive eject button.

    The drive tray slides out.

  2. Remove a disc from your VAIO computer.
  3. Close the drive tray by pushing it in gently.

Note

  • Do not exert pressure on the drive tray when removing a disc.

Booting Your VAIO Computer from External Devices

You can boot your VAIO computer from external devices, such as an optical disc drive, a USB floppy disk drive, or a USB flash drive by using the BIOS function.

  1. Connect an external device to your VAIO computer.
  2. Press the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is off.

    The VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen appears.

  3. Click Start from media (USB device/optical disc).

    The booting process from the external device starts.

Note

  • Disconnect all devices from your VAIO computer except for the external device from which you intend to boot up. Some devices cannot be used to boot the computer, or cannot be used with the computer.

  • If an AC adapter is supplied with the external device, be sure to connect it to an AC power source in advance.

Hint

  • If the display language selection window appears, select your desired language and click OK.

About the ASSIST Button

Press the ASSIST button to perform regular maintenance of your VAIO computer or to solve problems you might encounter when using the computer.

While the computer is on, the ASSIST button starts VAIO Care.

While the computer is off, the ASSIST button displays the VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen.

VAIO Care Rescue can be used to recover the computer in case of emergency, for example, when Windows does not start.

Keeping Your VAIO Computer in Optimum Condition (VAIO Care)

With VAIO Care, you can perform the following operations to keep your VAIO computer running at an optimum level.

  • Conduct regular performance checks and tune-ups.

  • Find support information (the support website URL, the contact information phone number, etc.).

  • Launch VAIO Care just by pressing the ASSIST button and search for appropriate measures if you have any problem.

  1. Press the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is on.

    VAIO Care starts.

    Refer to the help file included with VAIO Care for more information.

Hint

  • Pressing the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is off displays the VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen. VAIO Care Rescue can be used to recover the computer in case of emergency, for example, if Windows does not start.

  • Alternatively, click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Care to start VAIO Care.

Booting Your VAIO Computer from External Devices

You can boot your VAIO computer from external devices, such as an optical disc drive, a USB floppy disk drive, or a USB flash drive by using the BIOS function.

  1. Connect an external device to your VAIO computer.
  2. Press the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is off.

    The VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen appears.

  3. Click Start from media (USB device/optical disc).

    The booting process from the external device starts.

Note

  • Disconnect all devices from your VAIO computer except for the external device from which you intend to boot up. Some devices cannot be used to boot the computer, or cannot be used with the computer.

  • If an AC adapter is supplied with the external device, be sure to connect it to an AC power source in advance.

Hint

  • If the display language selection window appears, select your desired language and click OK.

About the ASSIST Button

Press the ASSIST button to perform regular maintenance of your VAIO computer or to solve problems you might encounter when using the computer.

While the computer is on, the ASSIST button starts VAIO Care.

While the computer is off, the ASSIST button displays the VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen.

VAIO Care Rescue can be used to recover the computer in case of emergency, for example, when Windows does not start.

Checking the Volume of the Recovery Area

Your built-in storage device contains the recovery area 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.

Notes on Recovery

Read the following notes thoroughly before recovering your VAIO computer.

Important notes on recovery

  • Recovering your VAIO computer will delete all the data on the built-in storage device and restore all the settings to the original factory settings. Make sure you have a backup copy of your valuable data.

  • Disconnect all peripherals from your VAIO computer except the power cord, the AC adapter, or devices required for recovery before recovering the computer.

  • Do not stop the recovery process until the process is complete.

  • If you have forgotten the password and cannot start the recovery process, contact an authorized Sony service/support center to reset it. A reset fee will be charged.

Notes on software

  • Recovering your VAIO computer can restore only the preinstalled software. The software that has been installed on your own or the data you have created since purchase cannot be restored. In addition, you cannot restore only Windows.

  • Certain preinstalled software includes options that allow the applications to uninstall or install themselves. However, the software may not work properly on your VAIO computer if such options are used.

  • Installing software to modify partition sizes may disable recovery or Recovery Media creation.

About Recovery

Recovery is the process of restoring your VAIO computer back to its original factory condition.

There are two ways to recover the computer:

  • From Recovery Media

  • From the recovery area

When do I have to perform recovery?

  • If your VAIO computer has become unstable

  • If your VAIO computer has been infected with a computer virus

  • If your VAIO computer is experiencing problems which cannot be solved through troubleshooting

  • If you have formatted the C: drive by mistake

Which software should I use to maintain and recover my VAIO computer?

Use the following software.

VAIO Care

  • Creating Recovery Media

  • Checking your computer hardware

VAIO Care Rescue

  • Rescuing (backing up) your data

  • Recovering your VAIO computer

  • Erasing the data on your built-in storage device

Hint

  • Refer to the help file included with VAIO Care and VAIO Care Rescue for more information.

What is a recovery area?

The recovery area on the built-in storage device contains data for system and application recovery. Typically, you cannot modify or delete data in this area, however, there is commercially available software designed for this purpose.

Why do I have to create Recovery Media?

Recovery Media are used to restore your VAIO computer back to its original factory condition. If Windows does not start and you have deleted the recovery area, you will need the Recovery Media to perform recovery.

Create the Recovery Media immediately after the computer is ready for use.

Creating Recovery Media

Follow the instructions below to create Recovery Media.

You can use DVDs, Blu-ray Disc, or a USB flash drive as Recovery Media.

  • On the model without a built-in optical disc drive:

    Use a USB flash drive.

  • On the model with a built-in optical disc drive:

    It is recommended that you use DVD-R media, because data can be accidently deleted from a USB flash drive. You can also use BD-R/DVD+R/DVD+R DL/DVD-R DL/DVD+RW/DVD-RW/BD-RE/BD-R DL/BD-RE DL media; however, the type of media your VAIO computer supports and the number of discs you need vary depending on the model you purchased. You will be notified of such information during the creation process.

Note

  • USB ports that are compliant with the USB 3.0 standard do not support recovery with a USB flash drive that is compliant with the USB 3.0 standard. On models without the USB ports that are compliant with only the USB 2.0 standard, be sure to create Recovery Media using the USB flash drive that is not compliant with the USB 3.0 standard.

  1. Connect your VAIO computer to the Internet, download and install the latest updates using VAIO Update.
  2. If you create Recovery Media (optical discs) on the model without a built-in optical disc drive, connect an external optical disc drive (not supplied) to your VAIO computer. (See Connecting an External DVD Drive for more information on how to connect the external optical disc drive.)

    If an AC adapter is supplied with the external optical disc drive, plug the AC adapter into a power source.

  3. Click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Care.

    If the User Account Control window appears, click Yes.

  4. Click Advanced Tools, Restore and recovery, and Create Recovery Media.
  5. Read the on-screen instructions carefully, and then click Next.
  6. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Note

  • It may take some time to display the current status of the procedure.

  • Do not eject or disconnect the media while creating Recovery Media, as doing so may result in a failure of the process.

  • Keep the Recovery Media in a secure place.

Hint

  • If you are currently logged onto your VAIO computer as a standard user, you may be prompted to enter an administrator name and a password.

Notes on creating Recovery Media

  • Recovery Media is specific to your VAIO computer on which it was created.

  • Create Recovery Media immediately after your VAIO computer is ready for use. In the following cases, you may not be able to recover the computer from the recovery area and Recovery Media will be necessary:

    • You have modified the recovery area with software designed for data modification.

    • You have installed an operating system different from the preinstalled operating system on the computer.

    • You have formatted your built-in storage device without using VAIO Care Rescue.

  • Do not touch or soil the surface of the discs. Fingerprints or dust on the surface may cause read/write errors.

  • Depending on the model you purchased, you may not be able to create Recovery Media using optical discs except DVD-R due to disk space shortage.

  • Refer to the help file included with VAIO Care beforehand when you use a USB flash drive as Recovery Media.

Recovering from Recovery Media

If the recovery area data has been corrupted or erased, you can use Recovery Media to recover your VAIO computer.

However, it takes longer time to recover using Recovery Media than using the recovery area.

If you use Recovery Media (optical discs) on the model without a built-in optical disc drive, connect an external optical disc drive (not supplied) to your VAIO computer. See Connecting an External DVD Drive for more information on how to connect the external optical disc drive.

If an AC adapter is supplied with the external optical disc drive, plug the AC adapter into a power source.

  1. Insert Recovery Media into the optical disc drive or connect a USB flash drive to the USB port on your VAIO computer while the computer is in Normal mode.
  2. Turn off your VAIO computer.
  3. Press the ASSIST button to display the VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen and click Start from media (USB device/optical disc).

    The Windows Boot Manager screen is displayed.

    If the screen does not appear, restart the computer and try again.

  4. Press theorkey to select Start VAIO Care Rescue and press the Enter key.
  5. Select Start recovery wizard.
  6. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Note

  • If your VAIO computer is equipped with the USB port that is compliant with the USB 2.0 standard, connect a USB device to the port.

Hint

  • If the display language selection window appears, select your desired language and click OK.

  • To perform the custom recovery, select Tools and click Start advanced recovery wizard.

  • If you cannot recover your VAIO computer using the USB flash drive, connect the drive to another USB port on the computer and try recovering the computer again.

Removing Recovery Contents to Free up Disk Space

Your built-in storage device contains the recovery area where the data for system recovery is stored. If your VAIO computer includes a solid state drive (SSD), you might want to minimize the recovery area by removing such data.

The above procedure involves system recovery. The applications and data you added on the storage device before removing the data for system recovery will all be lost.

Once you have removed the data for system recovery, you need the Recovery Media for later system recovery.

  1. Create Recovery Media if you have not yet created it.

    See Creating Recovery Media for more information on how to create Recovery Media.

  2. If you use Recovery Media (optical discs) on the model without a built-in optical disc drive, connect an external optical disc drive (not supplied) to your VAIO computer. ( See Connecting an External DVD Drive for more information on how to connect the external optical disc drive.)

    If an AC adapter is supplied with the external optical disc drive, plug the AC adapter into a power source.

  3. Insert the disc into the optical disc drive or connect the USB flash drive (not supplied) to the USB port while your VAIO computer is in Normal mode.
  4. Turn off your VAIO computer.
  5. Press the ASSIST button to display the VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen and click Start from media (USB device/optical disc).

    The Windows Boot Manager screen is displayed.

  6. Press theorkey to select VAIO Care Rescue and press the Enter key.
  7. 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.

  8. Follow the on-screen instructions until the Select recovery type window appears.
  9. Select Custom recovery - Remove recovery contents.
  10. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Note

  • If your VAIO computer is equipped with the USB port that is compliant with the USB 2.0 standard, connect a USB device to the port.

Hint

  • If the display language selection window appears, select your desired language and click OK.

About the ASSIST Button

Press the ASSIST button to perform regular maintenance of your VAIO computer or to solve problems you might encounter when using the computer.

While the computer is on, the ASSIST button starts VAIO Care.

While the computer is off, the ASSIST button displays the VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen.

VAIO Care Rescue can be used to recover the computer in case of emergency, for example, when Windows does not start.

Recovering from the Recovery Area

Recovery from the recovery area on the built-in storage device is faster than recovery using Recovery Media.

See Notes on Recovery before recovery.

  1. Press the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is off.

    The VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen appears.

  2. Select Start VAIO recovery solutions.

    Follow the on-screen instructions until the VAIO Care Rescue screen appears.

  3. Click Start recovery wizard.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Hint

  • If the display language selection window appears, select your desired language and click OK.

  • To perform the custom recovery, select Tools and click Start advanced recovery wizard.

Booting Your VAIO Computer from External Devices

You can boot your VAIO computer from external devices, such as an optical disc drive, a USB floppy disk drive, or a USB flash drive by using the BIOS function.

  1. Connect an external device to your VAIO computer.
  2. Press the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is off.

    The VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen appears.

  3. Click Start from media (USB device/optical disc).

    The booting process from the external device starts.

Note

  • Disconnect all devices from your VAIO computer except for the external device from which you intend to boot up. Some devices cannot be used to boot the computer, or cannot be used with the computer.

  • If an AC adapter is supplied with the external device, be sure to connect it to an AC power source in advance.

Hint

  • If the display language selection window appears, select your desired language and click OK.

About the ASSIST Button

Press the ASSIST button to perform regular maintenance of your VAIO computer or to solve problems you might encounter when using the computer.

While the computer is on, the ASSIST button starts VAIO Care.

While the computer is off, the ASSIST button displays the VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen.

VAIO Care Rescue can be used to recover the computer in case of emergency, for example, when Windows does not start.

About Types of Backup

You can use the Windows Backup and Restore feature to back up your valuable data.

There are several types of backup to meet your needs, as described below.

Backing up files

You can select and back up folders and files stored on your VAIO computer to a DVD or an external hard disk drive.

For details on how to back up data, refer to Windows Help and Support.

Backing up system images

You can create a backup copy of the whole system of your VAIO computer. If the built-in storage device or the computer ever stops working, you can use the system image to restore the computer as it was when backed up.

To create a system image, you need an optional hard disk drive formatted in NTFS format. You can also back up a system image to optical discs such as Blu-ray Disc or DVD disc.

For details on how to create a system image, refer to Windows Help and Support.

Restore point

After you install new software or change Windows settings, your VAIO computer may have some problems (such as slow response, unable to launch software, etc.).

You can create a restore point before such an installation or setting change to restore your system to an earlier point in time if it has a problem.

For details on a restore point, see Creating a Restore Point.

Note

  • We will not restore or compensate for any lost or damaged data under any circumstances including failure of your VAIO computer.

  • Create Recovery Media soon after purchasing your VAIO computer. In the event that you cannot make a backup copy of your data with the Windows feature due to computer malfunctions, you can use the backup tool included in the Recovery Media to back up your data.

    For details on how to create the Recovery Media, see Creating Recovery Media.

Hint

  • If your VAIO computer is equipped with no disc drive, you need to connect an external device, such as an external hard disk drive or DVD drive, to the computer before backup, or you need to resize the partition of your C: drive and create another partition before backup. See Creating Partitions in Windows for more information.

About Backup

The backup process creates a backup copy of your data stored on the built-in storage device and saves it to another location.

Due to unexpected events or computer viruses, you might lose various data stored on your built-in storage device. To restore the lost data, its backup copy is needed.

It is strongly recommended that you back up your data regularly.

If you can start Windows, back up and restore your data with the Windows feature.

To use the feature, click(Start), Control Panel, System and Security, and Backup and Restore.

Backing Up Your Data when You cannot Start Windows

If you cannot start Windows, back up your data with VAIO Care Rescue.

  1. Press the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is off.

    The VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen appears.

  2. Select Start VAIO recovery solutions.

    Follow the on-screen instructions until the VAIO Care Rescue screen appears.

  3. Click Tools and Rescue Data.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Note

  • If your VAIO computer is equipped with the USB port that is compliant with the USB 2.0 standard when you use a USB device to back up your data, connect the USB device to the port.

Hint

  • If the display language selection window appears in step 2, select your desired language and click OK.

  • Alternatively, you can start VAIO Care Rescue with Recovery Media. See Recovering from Recovery Media for more information.

  • It is recommended that you select an external hard disk drive as a location to save rescued files if you select Custom rescue.

Notes on using Rescue Data

  • Handle rescued files with care to protect from unauthorized access.

  • Disable the Windows hard disk drive encryption feature before using Rescue Data to back up and restore your data.

    However, rescued files which are not encrypted on the built-in storage device can be easily accessed by unauthorized users using Recovery Media and this software. Therefore, after using the software, be sure to set the power-on or hard disk password, enable the Windows hard disk drive encryption feature, and keep the Recovery Media in a secure place to protect rescued files from unauthorized access.

  • To restore copyright protected data, such as music files organized by digital media playback software, use a backup tool specified by the software you used to import such data. Sony does not guarantee the playback compatibility of data which is not restored with the specified backup tool.

  • Rescue Data does not support backup of a file whose name including the path is over 260 characters.

  • Using Rescue Data does not guarantee to back up all the data on your built-in storage device.

    Sony assumes no liabilities for any loss of your data arising out of the backup process.

  • Use the power cord or the AC adapter to power your VAIO computer while using this software.

  • Rescued files may be divided into two or more files and saved in a specified location or renamed, depending on the location you select. Use VAIO Data Restore Tool to restore the rescued files. See Restoring Your Data with VAIO Data Restore Tool for more information.

  • If an external hard disk drive or optical disc drive does not support the USB connection, you need to install a software driver.

Creating a Restore Point

A restore point enables you to restore your computer system files to a previous state, depending on when the restore point was created.

Typically, restore points are created automatically, for example when you install a software driver. However, we recommend that you create a new restore point manually, using Control Panel, before installing any software or software drivers on your VAIO computer.

Refer to Windows Help and Support for information on creating a restore point.

Restoring Your Data with VAIO Data Restore Tool

If you backed up files previously using VAIO Care Rescue, use VAIO Data Restore Tool to restore these files.

For instructions on how to use the software, refer to the help file included with the software.

  1. Click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Data Restore Tool.

    The VAIO Data Restore Tool window appears.

  2. Click Next.

    If the User Account Control window appears, click Yes.

  3. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Note

  • To restore copyright protected data, such as music files organized by digital media playback software, use a backup tool specified by the software you used to import such data. Sony does not guarantee the playback compatibility of data which is not restored with the specified backup tool.

Hint

  • If you are currently logged onto your VAIO computer as a standard user, you may be prompted to enter an administrator name and password.

  • If necessary, move the restored files to an original location.

Restoring System Files Using the Restore Point when You cannot Start Windows

When you cannot start Windows, follow these steps to restore computer system files.

If you use Recovery Media (optical discs) on the model without a built-in optical disc drive, connect an external optical disc drive (not supplied) to your VAIO computer. See Connecting an External DVD Drive for more information on how to connect the external optical disc drive.

If an AC adapter is supplied with the external optical disc drive, plug the AC adapter into a power source.

  1. Insert Recovery Media into the optical disc drive or connect a USB flash drive to the USB port on your VAIO computer while the computer is in Normal mode.
  2. Turn off your VAIO computer.
  3. Press the ASSIST button to display the VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen and click Start from media (USB device/optical disc).

    The Windows Boot Manager screen is displayed.

  4. Press theorkey to select Repair Windows 7 and press the Enter key.
  5. Select a keyboard layout and click Next.

    If the appropriate keyboard layout is not selected, you may not be able to enter the password correctly.

  6. Select your operating system and click Next.

    The system restore tool selection screen appears.

  7. Click System Restore.

    The System Restore window appears.

  8. Click Next.
  9. Select a restore point and click Next.

    The confirmation window of the selected restore point appears.

  10. Click Finish to confirm the restore point.

    Restart your VAIO computer if the window prompts you to restart the computer.

Note

  • If your VAIO computer is equipped with the USB port that is compliant with the USB 2.0 standard, connect a USB device to the port.

Hint

  • If the display language selection window appears, select your desired language and click OK.

Keeping Your VAIO Computer in Optimum Condition (VAIO Care)

With VAIO Care, you can perform the following operations to keep your VAIO computer running at an optimum level.

  • Conduct regular performance checks and tune-ups.

  • Find support information (the support website URL, the contact information phone number, etc.).

  • Launch VAIO Care just by pressing the ASSIST button and search for appropriate measures if you have any problem.

  1. Press the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is on.

    VAIO Care starts.

    Refer to the help file included with VAIO Care for more information.

Hint

  • Pressing the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is off displays the VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen. VAIO Care Rescue can be used to recover the computer in case of emergency, for example, if Windows does not start.

  • Alternatively, click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Care to start VAIO Care.

Creating Other Drives (Modifying Partitions)

Partitions are divided areas on your built-in storage device. Dividing the built-in storage device into more than one partition may have various advantages, such as separating the system files from your data files.

Your VAIO computer has only one partition (C: drive) as the factory default setting.

If you want to store data in another partition, such as D: drive, change the partition size and create a new partition.

There are two ways to create partitions: using Windows and creating during recovery.

For more information on how to create partitions, refer to Windows Help and Support or see Creating Partitions during Recovery.

Hint

  • Some models may have D: drive as the factory default setting.

Creating Partitions in Windows

The Windows feature allows you to create a partition without recovering your VAIO computer system.

  1. Click(Start), Control Panel, System and Security, and Create and format hard disk partitions under Administrative Tools.

    If the User Account Control window appears, select Yes.

  2. Right-click the C: drive and select Shrink Volume.
  3. Enter the size of the partition to be created in Enter the amount of space to shrink in MB and click Shrink.
  4. Right-click Unallocated and select New Simple Volume.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Hint

  • If you are currently logged onto your VAIO computer as a standard user, you may be prompted to enter an administrator name and password.

Checking the Volume of the Recovery Area

Your built-in storage device contains the recovery area 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.

Removing Recovery Contents to Free up Disk Space

Your built-in storage device contains the recovery area where the data for system recovery is stored. If your VAIO computer includes a solid state drive (SSD), you might want to minimize the recovery area by removing such data.

The above procedure involves system recovery. The applications and data you added on the storage device before removing the data for system recovery will all be lost.

Once you have removed the data for system recovery, you need the Recovery Media for later system recovery.

  1. Create Recovery Media if you have not yet created it.

    See Creating Recovery Media for more information on how to create Recovery Media.

  2. If you use Recovery Media (optical discs) on the model without a built-in optical disc drive, connect an external optical disc drive (not supplied) to your VAIO computer. ( See Connecting an External DVD Drive for more information on how to connect the external optical disc drive.)

    If an AC adapter is supplied with the external optical disc drive, plug the AC adapter into a power source.

  3. Insert the disc into the optical disc drive or connect the USB flash drive (not supplied) to the USB port while your VAIO computer is in Normal mode.
  4. Turn off your VAIO computer.
  5. Press the ASSIST button to display the VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen and click Start from media (USB device/optical disc).

    The Windows Boot Manager screen is displayed.

  6. Press theorkey to select VAIO Care Rescue and press the Enter key.
  7. 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.

  8. Follow the on-screen instructions until the Select recovery type window appears.
  9. Select Custom recovery - Remove recovery contents.
  10. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Note

  • If your VAIO computer is equipped with the USB port that is compliant with the USB 2.0 standard, connect a USB device to the port.

Hint

  • If the display language selection window appears, select your desired language and click OK.

Creating Partitions during Recovery

This topic describes how to create partitions.

There are two ways to create partitions: using Windows and creating during recovery. To create partitions during recovery, follow these steps:

  1. Press the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is off.
    The VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen appears.
  2. Select Start VAIO recovery solutions.
    Follow the on-screen instructions until the VAIO Care Rescue screen appears.
  3. Click Tools and Start advanced recovery wizard.
    Follow the on-screen instructions until a screen to select recovery type appears.
  4. Click Custom recovery - Resize C: and create D: drive.
  5. Enter the C: drive size and click Next.
  6. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Note

  • If you create partitions during recovery, all data on your built-in storage device will be erased.

  • If you reduce the partition size of the C: drive, Recovery Media creation may fail due to disk space shortage.

Hint

  • If the display language selection window appears, select your desired language and click OK.

Creating Other Drives (Modifying Partitions)

Partitions are divided areas on your built-in storage device. Dividing the built-in storage device into more than one partition may have various advantages, such as separating the system files from your data files.

Your VAIO computer has only one partition (C: drive) as the factory default setting.

If you want to store data in another partition, such as D: drive, change the partition size and create a new partition.

There are two ways to create partitions: using Windows and creating during recovery.

For more information on how to create partitions, refer to Windows Help and Support or see Creating Partitions during Recovery.

Hint

  • Some models may have D: drive as the factory default setting.

Creating Partitions in Windows

The Windows feature allows you to create a partition without recovering your VAIO computer system.

  1. Click(Start), Control Panel, System and Security, and Create and format hard disk partitions under Administrative Tools.

    If the User Account Control window appears, select Yes.

  2. Right-click the C: drive and select Shrink Volume.
  3. Enter the size of the partition to be created in Enter the amount of space to shrink in MB and click Shrink.
  4. Right-click Unallocated and select New Simple Volume.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Hint

  • If you are currently logged onto your VAIO computer as a standard user, you may be prompted to enter an administrator name and password.

Creating Partitions during Recovery

This topic describes how to create partitions.

There are two ways to create partitions: using Windows and creating during recovery. To create partitions during recovery, follow these steps:

  1. Press the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is off.
    The VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen appears.
  2. Select Start VAIO recovery solutions.
    Follow the on-screen instructions until the VAIO Care Rescue screen appears.
  3. Click Tools and Start advanced recovery wizard.
    Follow the on-screen instructions until a screen to select recovery type appears.
  4. Click Custom recovery - Resize C: and create D: drive.
  5. Enter the C: drive size and click Next.
  6. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Note

  • If you create partitions during recovery, all data on your built-in storage device will be erased.

  • If you reduce the partition size of the C: drive, Recovery Media creation may fail due to disk space shortage.

Hint

  • If the display language selection window appears, select your desired language and click OK.

Using VAIO Update

VAIO Update provides a service that informs you of available update information, such as important notices or update programs, to keep your VAIO computer up to date.

Through the Internet, VAIO Update automatically detects the update programs that are necessary for enhancing your computer’s performance or new software that is available, and let you download and install with simple steps.

  1. Click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Update.

Hint

  • You can also start VAIO Update from VAIO Care.

Keeping Your VAIO Computer in Optimum Condition (VAIO Care)

With VAIO Care, you can perform the following operations to keep your VAIO computer running at an optimum level.

  • Conduct regular performance checks and tune-ups.

  • Find support information (the support website URL, the contact information phone number, etc.).

  • Launch VAIO Care just by pressing the ASSIST button and search for appropriate measures if you have any problem.

  1. Press the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is on.

    VAIO Care starts.

    Refer to the help file included with VAIO Care for more information.

Hint

  • Pressing the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is off displays the VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen. VAIO Care Rescue can be used to recover the computer in case of emergency, for example, if Windows does not start.

  • Alternatively, click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Care to start VAIO Care.

Using the Antivirus Software for Your VAIO Computer

Protect your VAIO computer against computer viruses by using the antivirus software.

You can keep the antivirus software current with the latest updates by downloading and installing the updates from the website of the software publisher. To update the antivirus software, find the antivirus software installed on your VAIO computer from the following and follow these steps.

  1. Make sure your VAIO computer is connected to the Internet.
  2. Perform any of these operations according to the preinstalled antivirus app.

    For Trend Micro:

    Click(Start), All Programs, Trend Micro Titanium Maximum Security, and Trend Micro Titanium Maximum Security.

    For McAfee:

    Click(Start), All Programs, McAfee, and McAfee Internet Security or McAfee Total Protection.

    For Kaspersky Internet Security:

    Click(Start), All Programs, Kaspersky Internet Security, and Kaspersky Internet Security.

  3. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Note

  • The actual procedure may be different from the above depending on the version of the software installed on your VAIO computer. In such a case, follow the on-screen instructions.

Hint

  • Refer to the help file included with your software for more information.

Setting/Changing the Power-on Password

You can set a password (power-on password) for booting up your VAIO computer, using the BIOS function. Entry of the power-on password will be prompted after the VAIO logo appears to start the computer.

There are two types of passwords. Set the machine password first.

  • Machine password (for administrators):

    Allows users with administrative rights to change all the setup options in the BIOS setup screen, as well as to start your VAIO computer.

  • User password (for users without administrative rights):

    Allows standard users to change some of the BIOS setup options, as well as to start your VAIO computer. To set the user password, you must first set the machine password.

  1. Press the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is off.

    The VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen appears.

  2. Click Start BIOS setup.

    Enter a password if it has already been set.

    The BIOS setup screen appears.

  3. Press theorkey to select the Security tab, select Set Machine Password or Set User Password, and then press the Enter key.

    The password entry screen appears.

  4. Enter the password and press the Enter key.

    To change the password, enter the current password and a new password. The password can be set up to 32 alphanumeric characters long (including spaces) and it is case-sensitive.

  5. Press theorkey to select Password when Power On, press the Enter key, and select Enabled.
  6. Press theorkey to select the Exit tab, select Exit Setup, and then press the Enter key.
  7. At the confirmation prompt, press the Enter key.

Note

  • Be sure to write down the password to avoid forgetting it.

  • If you forget the password, you cannot boot up your VAIO computer.

  • You can reset the user password at the BIOS setup screen by entering the machine password.

  • If you forget the machine password, the password must be reset by authorized Sony service/support center. (The reset fee will be charged.)

Hint

  • If the display language selection window appears, select your desired language and click OK.

Removing the Power-on Password

If power-on password input for booting up your VAIO computer is no longer necessary, follow these steps to remove the machine password and user password.

  1. Press the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is off.

    The VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen appears.

  2. Click Start BIOS setup.

    Enter a password if it has already been set.

    The BIOS setup screen appears.

  3. Press theorkey to select the Security tab, select Set Machine Password or Set User Password, and then press the Enter key.

    The password entry screen appears.

  4. Leave the Enter New Password and Confirm New Password fields blank and press the Enter key.
  5. Press theorkey to select the Exit tab, select Exit Setup, and then press the Enter key.

    At the confirmation prompt, press the Enter key.

Hint

  • If the display language selection window appears, select your desired language and click OK.

Creating/Changing/Removing Your Windows Password

Setting a Windows password allows you to protect your VAIO computer from unauthorized access by making the user enter the password when the computer is turned on or returns from power saving mode to Normal mode.

Refer to Windows Help and Support for more information on 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 Create a password for your account, Change your password, or Remove your password.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions to enter your password, and then press the Enter key.

Note

  • Do not forget your password. Write down the password and keep it in a secure place.

Hint

  • You can enter a hint in order to recall your password if you forget it. You can also create a password reset disc that can be used to create a new password. Refer to Windows Help and Support for more information on the Windows password.

Setting/Changing the Power-on Password

You can set a password (power-on password) for booting up your VAIO computer, using the BIOS function. Entry of the power-on password will be prompted after the VAIO logo appears to start the computer.

There are two types of passwords. Set the machine password first.

  • Machine password (for administrators):

    Allows users with administrative rights to change all the setup options in the BIOS setup screen, as well as to start your VAIO computer.

  • User password (for users without administrative rights):

    Allows standard users to change some of the BIOS setup options, as well as to start your VAIO computer. To set the user password, you must first set the machine password.

  1. Press the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is off.

    The VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen appears.

  2. Click Start BIOS setup.

    Enter a password if it has already been set.

    The BIOS setup screen appears.

  3. Press theorkey to select the Security tab, select Set Machine Password or Set User Password, and then press the Enter key.

    The password entry screen appears.

  4. Enter the password and press the Enter key.

    To change the password, enter the current password and a new password. The password can be set up to 32 alphanumeric characters long (including spaces) and it is case-sensitive.

  5. Press theorkey to select Password when Power On, press the Enter key, and select Enabled.
  6. Press theorkey to select the Exit tab, select Exit Setup, and then press the Enter key.
  7. At the confirmation prompt, press the Enter key.

Note

  • Be sure to write down the password to avoid forgetting it.

  • If you forget the password, you cannot boot up your VAIO computer.

  • You can reset the user password at the BIOS setup screen by entering the machine password.

  • If you forget the machine password, the password must be reset by authorized Sony service/support center. (The reset fee will be charged.)

Hint

  • If the display language selection window appears, select your desired language and click OK.

Removing the Power-on Password

If power-on password input for booting up your VAIO computer is no longer necessary, follow these steps to remove the machine password and user password.

  1. Press the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is off.

    The VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen appears.

  2. Click Start BIOS setup.

    Enter a password if it has already been set.

    The BIOS setup screen appears.

  3. Press theorkey to select the Security tab, select Set Machine Password or Set User Password, and then press the Enter key.

    The password entry screen appears.

  4. Leave the Enter New Password and Confirm New Password fields blank and press the Enter key.
  5. Press theorkey to select the Exit tab, select Exit Setup, and then press the Enter key.

    At the confirmation prompt, press the Enter key.

Hint

  • If the display language selection window appears, select your desired language and click OK.

Using VAIO Update

VAIO Update provides a service that informs you of available update information, such as important notices or update programs, to keep your VAIO computer up to date.

Through the Internet, VAIO Update automatically detects the update programs that are necessary for enhancing your computer’s performance or new software that is available, and let you download and install with simple steps.

  1. Click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Update.

Hint

  • You can also start VAIO Update from VAIO Care.

Keeping Your VAIO Computer in Optimum Condition (VAIO Care)

With VAIO Care, you can perform the following operations to keep your VAIO computer running at an optimum level.

  • Conduct regular performance checks and tune-ups.

  • Find support information (the support website URL, the contact information phone number, etc.).

  • Launch VAIO Care just by pressing the ASSIST button and search for appropriate measures if you have any problem.

  1. Press the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is on.

    VAIO Care starts.

    Refer to the help file included with VAIO Care for more information.

Hint

  • Pressing the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is off displays the VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen. VAIO Care Rescue can be used to recover the computer in case of emergency, for example, if Windows does not start.

  • Alternatively, click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Care to start VAIO Care.

Notes on Using the TPM (TPM security chip equipped models)

Before using the Trusted Platform Module (TPM), read the following precautions for correct use.

Notes on the BIOS settings

  • Resetting the TPM settings in the BIOS setup screen makes your TPM-encrypted data inaccessible. If you have the TPM-encrypted data, make a backup copy before resetting the settings, if needed.

  • Before enabling the TPM in the BIOS setup screen, set the BIOS password to prevent unauthorized users from changing the TPM settings. See Setting/Changing the Power-on Password for more information.

Notes on data management with the TPM

  • The TPM security feature on your VAIO computer does not ensure complete security of your data and hardware.

  • Sony assumes no liability for any problems and damage arising out of your use of or inability to use the TPM.

  • Back up your data on the TPM or the built-in storage device before sending your VAIO computer for repair, and keep your backup data private from other users.

    Sony assumes no liability for any data loss arising out of repairs.

  • The TPM will also be replaced if your computer motherboard needs replacement during the course of repair.

  • Perform the operation and maintenance of the TPM-related data at your own risk. Sony assumes no liability for any problems arising out of your operation and maintenance.

Encrypting Your Data with the TPM (BitLocker) (TPM security chip equipped models) (BitLocker supported models)

On models with Windows 7 Ultimate or Windows 7 Enterprise, you can use BitLocker to encrypt all the data on the built-in storage device.

Refer to Windows Help and Support for more information on the BitLocker settings and operations.

To unlock the BitLocker-protected drive with a USB flash drive, follow these steps:

  1. Press the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is off.

    The VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen appears.

  2. Click Start BIOS setup.

    The BIOS setup screen appears.

  3. Press theorkey to select the Security tab and change the Change TPM State setting to Enable.
  4. Press theorkey to select Boot and change the External Device Boot setting to Enabled.
  5. Change the boot device order to put Internal Hard Disk Drive in Boot Priority before External Device.
  6. Press theorkey to select Exit, select Exit Setup, and then press the Enter key.
  7. When the confirmation prompt appears after your VAIO computer restarts, select Execute.
  8. Refer to Windows Help and Support to enable BitLocker.
  9. Save a password on the USB flash drive in the recovery password save window.

    Then, follow the on-screen instructions to restart your VAIO computer. After the computer restarts, the BitLocker encryption starts.

Note

  • After you update the BIOS settings using VAIO Update, the BIOS settings are restored to the default. In this case, you need to repeat the above steps.

  • It takes several hours to complete the BitLocker encryption.

  • Do not encrypt an external device containing the recovery password, such as a USB flash drive, using Windows BitLocker Drive Encryption.

Notes on Using the TPM (TPM security chip equipped models)

Before using the Trusted Platform Module (TPM), read the following precautions for correct use.

Notes on the BIOS settings

  • Resetting the TPM settings in the BIOS setup screen makes your TPM-encrypted data inaccessible. If you have the TPM-encrypted data, make a backup copy before resetting the settings, if needed.

  • Before enabling the TPM in the BIOS setup screen, set the BIOS password to prevent unauthorized users from changing the TPM settings. See Setting/Changing the Power-on Password for more information.

Notes on data management with the TPM

  • The TPM security feature on your VAIO computer does not ensure complete security of your data and hardware.

  • Sony assumes no liability for any problems and damage arising out of your use of or inability to use the TPM.

  • Back up your data on the TPM or the built-in storage device before sending your VAIO computer for repair, and keep your backup data private from other users.

    Sony assumes no liability for any data loss arising out of repairs.

  • The TPM will also be replaced if your computer motherboard needs replacement during the course of repair.

  • Perform the operation and maintenance of the TPM-related data at your own risk. Sony assumes no liability for any problems arising out of your operation and maintenance.

Encrypting Your Data with the TPM (BitLocker) (TPM security chip equipped models) (BitLocker supported models)

On models with Windows 7 Ultimate or Windows 7 Enterprise, you can use BitLocker to encrypt all the data on the built-in storage device.

Refer to Windows Help and Support for more information on the BitLocker settings and operations.

To unlock the BitLocker-protected drive with a USB flash drive, follow these steps:

  1. Press the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is off.

    The VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen appears.

  2. Click Start BIOS setup.

    The BIOS setup screen appears.

  3. Press theorkey to select the Security tab and change the Change TPM State setting to Enable.
  4. Press theorkey to select Boot and change the External Device Boot setting to Enabled.
  5. Change the boot device order to put Internal Hard Disk Drive in Boot Priority before External Device.
  6. Press theorkey to select Exit, select Exit Setup, and then press the Enter key.
  7. When the confirmation prompt appears after your VAIO computer restarts, select Execute.
  8. Refer to Windows Help and Support to enable BitLocker.
  9. Save a password on the USB flash drive in the recovery password save window.

    Then, follow the on-screen instructions to restart your VAIO computer. After the computer restarts, the BitLocker encryption starts.

Note

  • After you update the BIOS settings using VAIO Update, the BIOS settings are restored to the default. In this case, you need to repeat the above steps.

  • It takes several hours to complete the BitLocker encryption.

  • Do not encrypt an external device containing the recovery password, such as a USB flash drive, using Windows BitLocker Drive Encryption.

Notes on Adding and Removing Memory Modules (SVF143/SVF153)

Before adding or removing memory modules, read the following precautions thoroughly.

  • Your VAIO computer and memory modules use high precision components and electronic connector technology. To avoid invalidation of the warranty during your product warranty period, we recommend that:

    • You should contact your dealer to install a new memory module.

    • You should not install a memory module by yourself, if you are not familiar with upgrading memory on a computer.

    • You should not touch the connectors or open the memory module compartment cover.

  • For assistance, contact an authorized Sony service/support center. To find the nearest center or agent, see About Online Support Websites.

  • If you add or remove memory modules by yourself, your VAIO computer may result in malfunction or accident caused by breakage of slot and module, or connection mistake. In this case, repair fee will be charged.

  • Be careful not to injure your hands or fingers with sharp edges of the memory module, inner components, or circuit boards of your VAIO computer.

  • Be careful not to catch your fingers on any inner cables of your VAIO computer, as the cable may become loose or disconnected.

  • If your VAIO computer is turned on while liquid such as water or other foreign object remains inside, it may cause a fire. Be sure to remove any foreign objects and attach the memory module compartment cover before turning on your VAIO computer.

  • Sony does not guarantee that third party memory modules will work in your VAIO computer. For information on third party memory modules, consult the respective sales dealers.

  • Be sure to turn off your VAIO computer and peripherals and disconnect all attachments and connection cables before adding or removing memory modules. Failure to do so may cause damage to the memory module, your VAIO computer, or peripheral devices.

  • To prevent damage from electrostatic discharge to memory modules, follow the instructions below:

    • Do not work at a place that produces static electricity easily, such as on a carpet.

    • Before adding or removing memory modules, touch an external metal object from your VAIO computer to eliminate static electricity. Do not touch any metal parts inside the computer.

    • Do not open the memory module package before you are ready to install the module. The package protects the module from ESD (electrostatic discharge). To store the module, cover it with an antistatic bag or a sheet of aluminum foil.

  • When holding a memory module, do not touch the chips or electrical terminal of the module.

  • Do not insert a memory module into the slot facing in wrong direction. It may cause damage to the module or slot, or cause the circuit board to catch fire.

  • Use a screwdriver that matches the size of the screw (such as a miniature screwdriver).

  • Do not remove or loosen screws that are not specified to be removed.

Adding and Removing Memory Modules (SVF143/SVF153)

If you want to increase your computer’s speed or improve performance when running programs simultaneously, increase the amount of memory by installing optional memory modules.

Before you upgrade your computer’s memory, see Notes on Adding and Removing Memory Modules (SVF143/SVF153).

If you install memory modules into two or more slots, the dual-channel mode is enabled to help improve performance.

The type of module and the amount of memory installed on your computer may differ depending on the model.

  1. Turn off your VAIO computer and peripheral devices, disconnect the power cord and all connection cables, and remove the battery pack.

    See Removing the Battery Pack (SVF143/SVF153) for information on how to remove the battery pack.

  2. Wait for a while until your VAIO computer cools down.

    The inner parts of your VAIO computer may be hot just after turning off. Be careful to avoid burns while handling your VAIO computer in this state.

  3. Lay a clean cloth on a level, flat surface, place your VAIO computer on it as illustrated below. Remove the screws with a cross slot screwdriver to open the memory module compartment cover.

    The screw locations are indicated by the arrows in the illustration below.

    On some models, captive screws are used on the memory module compartment cover and cannot be detached from the cover.

    A protective sheet covers the memory module under the cover. Lift the sheet when installing/removing the memory module.

    Be careful not to lift the sheet so much that it is detached or folded back.

  4. Touch an external metal object to discharge static electricity.

    Do not touch any metal parts inside your VAIO computer.

  5. If there is no free slot, remove the currently installed memory module. Pull the latches in the direction of the arrows to pop up the module at an angle (1), then pull the module out in the direction of the arrow (2).

  6. Remove the new memory module from its antistatic bag.
  7. Hold the memory module by its edge and slide it into the memory module slot with its end terminal facing downward while aligning the notch on the module with the small projection in the slot.

  8. Hold the memory module by its edge and push in until it clicks into place as shown in the illustration.

    The latches on both sides of the slot snap into place to secure the module. Do not touch any ICs (black components) on the memory module.

  9. Replace the memory module compartment cover and secure it with the screws you removed in step 3.
  10. Install the battery pack and connect all connection cables and peripherals that you removed in step 1, and turn on the computer.
  11. Check that the amount of system memory has correctly changed.

    If the amount of indicated system memory is correct, memory module installation was successful.

    To check the system information, see Viewing the System Information.

About Power Saving Mode

Your VAIO computer has power saving modes to conserve power while you are not using the computer in addition to the normal operating mode.

Sleep mode

In Sleep mode, all unnecessary devices of your VAIO computer are turned off, though some devices stay on to retain the computer’s state including data you are working on. Sleep mode is useful when you take a short rest, for example.

Hibernate mode

In Hibernate mode, the state of the current system is saved to the built-in storage device and your VAIO computer is turned off. Hibernate mode is useful if you do not intend to use the computer for a while.

About restart time and power consumption

The restart time from Sleep mode is the shortest, but your VAIO computer in Sleep mode consumes power the most. When the computer is off, the time you take to start the computer is longer than to resume it from power saving modes, but the computer can conserve power.

Note

  • By default, your VAIO computer automatically enters Hibernate mode when the battery pack becomes weak. However, depending on the currently running software and connected devices, Windows may not allow their tasks to be suspended, resulting in failure to enter Hibernate mode. If this occurs and the battery pack is running out of power, the computer will be turned off, resulting in loss of unsaved data.

    While the computer is running on battery power, save data frequently and manually place the computer into Hibernate mode, if necessary.

Charge Indicator Status List

The charge indicator lightturns on or blinks differently according to conditions.

Lit in orange

The battery pack is charging. (Turns off when charging is completed.)

Blinks in orange along with the green power indicator

The battery pack is running out of power. (Normal mode)

Blinks in orange along with the orange power indicator

The battery pack is running out of power. (Sleep mode)

Blinks fast in orange

A battery error has occurred due to a failed battery pack or an unlocked battery pack. (Removable battery pack supplied models)

A battery error has occurred due to a failed battery pack. (Built-in battery pack models)

Using Sleep Mode

In Sleep mode, all unnecessary devices of your VAIO computer are turned off, though some devices stay on to retain the computer’s state including data you are working on. Sleep mode is useful when you take a short rest, for example.

The power indicator light blinks slowly in orange while your VAIO computer is in this mode.

When the computer is running on battery power and a certain time has passed after the computer enters Sleep mode, the computer will enter Hibernate mode at the default setting.

To activate Sleep mode

  1. Click(Start),(arrow) next to the Shut down button, and Sleep.

To return to Normal mode

  1. Press the(Power) button.

Note

  • If you press and hold down the(Power) button for more than four seconds, your VAIO computer will turn off automatically. Doing this will erase all unsaved data.

  • If you do not intend to use your VAIO computer for an extended period of time while the computer is disconnected from an AC power source, place the computer into Sleep mode, or turn it off.

Hint

  • The operation below also place your VAIO computer into Sleep mode.

    • Press the(Power) button (with the default setting).

      Note that if you press and hold down the(Power) button for more than four seconds, your VAIO computer will turn off automatically. Doing this will erase all unsaved data.

  • By default, your VAIO computer enters Sleep mode automatically after about 30 minutes of inactivity while running on AC power.

Using Hibernate Mode

In Hibernate mode, the current state of your VAIO computer is saved to the built-in storage device, and then the computer is turned off. Hibernate mode is useful when you do not intend to use the computer for an extended period of time.

To activate Hibernate mode

  1. Click(Start),(arrow) next to the Shut down button, and Hibernate.

To return to Normal mode

  1. Press the(Power) button.

Note

  • Note that if you press and hold down the(Power) button for more than four seconds, your VAIO computer will turn off automatically. Doing this will erase all unsaved data.

  • By default, your VAIO computer automatically enters Hibernate mode when the battery pack becomes weak. However, depending on the currently running software and connected devices, Windows may not allow their tasks to be suspended, resulting in failure to enter Hibernate mode.

    If this occurs and the battery pack is running out of power, the computer will be turned off, resulting in loss of unsaved data.

    While the computer is running on battery power, save data frequently and manually place the computer into Hibernate mode, if necessary.

  • Before moving your VAIO computer, make sure that the power indicator light is off to avoid impact or vibration to the running hard disk drive. (Built-in hard disk drive models)

Hint

  • The power indicator light is off while your VAIO computer is in Hibernate mode.

  • When the charge and power indicator lights blink simultaneously, or a low battery message appears, place your VAIO computer into Sleep mode or Hibernate mode or plug it into an AC outlet.

Notes on an Extended Battery Pack (Extended battery pack supported models)

This topic explains battery charging behavior when an extended battery pack (not supplied) is attached to your VAIO computer in addition to the installed battery pack (the primary battery pack).

When the battery care function is disabled, the battery packs charge in the following sequence.

  1. The primary battery pack charges to about 80% of its battery capacity, then the extended battery pack starts charging.

  2. The extended battery pack charges to about 80% of its battery capacity, then the primary battery pack starts charging to 100%.

  3. The extended battery pack starts charging to 100%.

The battery power of the primary battery pack will be used after the extended battery pack runs out of power.

Shutting Down Your VAIO Computer

Properly shut down your VAIO computer to avoid losing unsaved data.

  1. Save your data and close all running software applications.
  2. Turn off any peripherals connected to your VAIO computer.
  3. Click(Start) and the Shut down button.

    After a short time, your VAIO computer automatically turns off and the green power indicator light turns off.

    Before closing the LCD screen lid, make sure the power indicator is off.

Note

  • An improper shutdown may cause loss of unsaved data or your VAIO computer to malfunction.

  • To disconnect your VAIO computer completely from an AC power source, turn off the computer, and then unplug the power cord from the AC outlet.

Restarting Your VAIO Computer

After changing the settings or installing software on your VAIO computer, you may be required to restart the computer.

  1. Save your data and close all running software applications.
  2. Click(Start),(arrow) next to the Shut down button, and Restart.
    Your VAIO computer will restart.

Charging the Battery Pack

The battery pack can be charged even while you are using your VAIO computer when the computer is connected to a power source. The charging time may vary depending on operating conditions.

Removable battery pack supplied models

  1. Install the battery pack into your VAIO computer. (See Installing the Battery Pack (SVF143/SVF153).)

  2. Plug your VAIO computer into an AC outlet. (See Connecting a Power Source.)

Built-in battery pack models

  1. Plug your VAIO computer into an AC outlet. (See Connecting a Power Source.)

Hint

  • The charging time varies depending on ambient temperature.

    Note that at a low ambient temperature, it takes longer time to charge the battery pack.

  • To check the removable or built-in battery status of your VAIO computer, click the battery icon, such as(on battery) or(plugged in), in the desktop notification area.

Turning On Your VAIO Computer

Turn on your VAIO computer to start Windows.

Carefully read the precautions in Notes on Using the Power Source before turning on.

  1. Install the battery pack on your VAIO computer. (Removable battery pack supplied models) (See Installing the Battery Pack (SVF143/SVF153).)
  2. Connect your VAIO computer to an AC outlet. (See Connecting a Power Source.)
  3. Lift the LCD screen lid.
  4. Press and hold down the(Power) button.

    The power indicator light turns on in green.

    Your VAIO computer is turned on, and Windows starts after a while.

Note

  • If you press and hold down the(Power) button for more than four seconds, your VAIO computer will not turn on.

    Press the(Power) button lightly, and release it immediately when the power indicator light turns on.

  • Do not use your VAIO computer without installing the battery pack as it may cause the computer to malfunction. (Removable battery pack supplied models)

  • When opening the LCD screen lid, do not hold the built-in camera as it may cause your VAIO computer to malfunction. (Built-in camera equipped models)

  • If you press the(Power) button with the LCD screen lid closed, your VAIO computer will not turn on.

Hint

  • By default, your VAIO computer automatically enters Sleep mode after a certain period of inactivity while the computer is connected to an AC outlet. See Using Sleep Mode for more information.

Charge Indicator Status List

The charge indicator lightturns on or blinks differently according to conditions.

Lit in orange

The battery pack is charging. (Turns off when charging is completed.)

Blinks in orange along with the green power indicator

The battery pack is running out of power. (Normal mode)

Blinks in orange along with the orange power indicator

The battery pack is running out of power. (Sleep mode)

Blinks fast in orange

A battery error has occurred due to a failed battery pack or an unlocked battery pack. (Removable battery pack supplied models)

A battery error has occurred due to a failed battery pack. (Built-in battery pack models)

Notes on an Extended Battery Pack (Extended battery pack supported models)

This topic explains battery charging behavior when an extended battery pack (not supplied) is attached to your VAIO computer in addition to the installed battery pack (the primary battery pack).

When the battery care function is disabled, the battery packs charge in the following sequence.

  1. The primary battery pack charges to about 80% of its battery capacity, then the extended battery pack starts charging.

  2. The extended battery pack charges to about 80% of its battery capacity, then the primary battery pack starts charging to 100%.

  3. The extended battery pack starts charging to 100%.

The battery power of the primary battery pack will be used after the extended battery pack runs out of power.

Extending the Battery Life

When your VAIO computer is running on battery power, you can extend the battery life using the following methods.

  • Use the power saving mode.

    When you do not need to use your VAIO computer temporarily, you can use either Sleep mode or Hibernate mode.

    To extend the battery life, use Sleep mode frequently. If you do not intend to use the computer for an extended period of time, use Hibernate mode. For longer breaks, turn off the computer.

    Resuming the computer from Hibernate mode is faster than from booting up the computer, and Sleep mode, even faster than Hibernate mode.

    See About Power Saving Mode for more information.

  • Decrease the LCD brightness of the computer screen.

    See Changing the LCD Brightness for more information.

  • Turn down the volume of the speakers and headphones.

    See Adjusting the Speakers Volume for more information.

  • Disconnect peripheral devices that are not in use.

Charging the Battery Pack

The battery pack can be charged even while you are using your VAIO computer when the computer is connected to a power source. The charging time may vary depending on operating conditions.

Removable battery pack supplied models

  1. Install the battery pack into your VAIO computer. (See Installing the Battery Pack (SVF143/SVF153).)

  2. Plug your VAIO computer into an AC outlet. (See Connecting a Power Source.)

Built-in battery pack models

  1. Plug your VAIO computer into an AC outlet. (See Connecting a Power Source.)

Hint

  • The charging time varies depending on ambient temperature.

    Note that at a low ambient temperature, it takes longer time to charge the battery pack.

  • To check the removable or built-in battery status of your VAIO computer, click the battery icon, such as(on battery) or(plugged in), in the desktop notification area.

Checking the Battery Charge Capacity

The battery pack is consumable. The capacity gradually declines through repeated cycles of recharging and discharging. As a result, the battery life becomes short even if it is fully charged and eventually the battery pack reaches the end of its life.

If the battery life has become short, replace the battery pack with a new one specified by Sony. Refer to the help file for more information on battery charge status and capacity decrease.

  1. Click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Control Center.
  2. Click Power Management and Battery.

    Detailed battery pack information, such as charging capacity, is displayed.

Hint

  • Enable the battery care function to maximize the battery lifespan. With this function, you can reduce battery degradation by limiting the maximum charging capacity. When the function is enabled, the battery pack is not fully charged.

Inserting a Disc (Optical disc drive equipped models)

Insert a disc to your VAIO computer that is turned on.

  1. Press the drive eject button.

    The drive tray slides out.

  2. Insert a disc to your VAIO computer.

    Hold the bottom of the drive tray with one hand, place a disc in the middle of the drive tray, and gently push it down until the disc clicks into place. If the disc is not properly placed when you close the drive tray, it may become unable to open.

    Place the disc with the label side facing upward.

  3. Close the drive tray by pushing it in gently.

Note

  • Do not exert pressure on the drive tray when placing a disc.

Hint

  • The location of the drive eject button varies depending on the model you purchased. It is located on the front or side of your VAIO computer.

Removing a Disc (Optical disc drive equipped models)

Remove a disc from your VAIO computer that is turned on.

  1. Press the drive eject button.

    The drive tray slides out.

  2. Remove a disc from your VAIO computer.
  3. Close the drive tray by pushing it in gently.

Note

  • Do not exert pressure on the drive tray when removing a disc.

Combinations and Functions with the Fn Key

Press and hold down the Fn key and another key simultaneously to perform a keyboard shortcut action.

For example, to turn off the sound: Fn +(F2)Press and hold down the Fn key, then press the F2 key.

Some keyboard functions can only be used while Windows is running.

Fn +(F1)

Disables and enables the touch pad. See Enabling/Disabling the Touch Pad for more information.

Fn +(F2)

Turns on and off the built-in speakers or the headphones.

Fn +/(F3/F4)

Press the button repeatedly to adjust the volume level of the built-in speakers and the headphones. See Adjusting the Speakers Volume for more information.

To decrease the volume, press the Fn+F3 keys.

To increase the volume, press the Fn+F4 keys.

Fn +/(F5/F6)

Press the button repeatedly to adjust the LCD brightness of your computer screen. See Changing the LCD Brightness for more information.

To decrease lighting intensity, press the Fn+F5 keys.

To increase lighting intensity, press the Fn+F6 keys.

Fn +(F7)

Switches the display output to an external display.

Press the Fn+F7 keys several times to select the desired display output destination, and then press the Enter key to confirm. See Selecting Display Modes for more information.

Fn + Num Lk (Num Lock)

Enables the keys on which numbers are printed as a numeric keypad to enter the numbers. (SVF143)

Fn + Scr Lk (Scroll Lock)

Works differently depending on the software you use. Refer to the help file included with the software for more information.

Fn + Pg Up (Page Up)

Goes to the previous page. (Non numeric keypad equipped models)

Fn + End (End)

Moves the cursor to the end of a line or page. (Non numeric keypad equipped models)

Fn + Pg Dn (Page Down)

Goes to the next page. (Non numeric keypad equipped models)

Fn + Home (Home)

Moves the cursor to the top of a line or page. (Non numeric keypad equipped models)

Using the Touch Pad

By sliding your finger on the touch pad, you can move the pointer on the computer screen.

With the pointer on your desired item or object, press the left button zone or the right button zone to execute various commands or display menus.

  1. Left button zone

  2. Right button zone

To click

With the pointer on your desired item or object, press the left button zone once.

Alternatively, tap on the touch pad once.

To double-click

With the pointer on your desired item or object, press the left button zone twice quickly.

Alternatively, tap on the touch pad twice quickly.

To right-click

With the pointer on your desired item or object, press the right button zone once.

Depending on the location of the pointer, you can display various shortcut menus.

To drag

With the pointer on your desired item or object, press the left button zone once, and while holding down the zone, slide your finger on the touch pad.

Alternatively, tap on the touch pad twice quickly, and on the second tap, slide your finger.

To drag and drop

Drag an icon, such as a file, to a folder, a window, or a software icon and release your finger from the left button zone.

Alternatively, tap the icon twice quickly, and on the second tap, slide your finger to your desired location and lift the finger off the touch pad.

To scroll

Slide two fingers up and down on the touch pad to scroll vertically in the active window.

Slide two fingers from side to side on the touch pad to scroll horizontally in the active window.

To back or forward without moving the pointer

On the software that supports the back/forward function, such as a web browser, put three fingers on the touch pad and slide them from side to side to perform the back/forward operation without moving the pointer.

To zoom in or out

With some software applications, such as a photo viewer, pinch on the touch pad with two fingers for zooming. Pinch open to zoom in or pinch close to zoom out.

To rotate

With some software applications, such as a photo viewer, slide two fingers in a circle on the touch pad to rotate an image.

Slide the fingers counterclockwise to rotate left and slide them clockwise to rotate right.

Note

  • The multi-touch function (scroll, back/forward, zoom in/zoom out, rotate) may not work depending on the software you are using or the touch pad settings.

Hint

  • The shape of the touch pad varies depending on the model you purchased.

  • For detailed information on how to use the touch pad, click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Control Center, and follow the instruction video on VAIO Control Center.

About the Built-in Camera (Built-in camera equipped models)

You can make a video call through the Internet using the built-in camera and communication software.

The built-in camera indicator light is on while the built-in camera is in use.

Notes on the Built-in Camera

  • Do not scratch or soil the area on and around the built-in camera, as it may cause poor-quality images.

  • Do not let direct sunlight enter the lens of the built-in camera regardless of your VAIO computer’s power state, as it may cause the camera to malfunction.

  • The software installed on your VAIO computer varies depending on the computer's configurations.

  • Some software may not support all the resolution settings of the built-in camera.

Care and cleaning of the built-in camera

If the area on and around the built-in camera is soiled, gently wipe it with a soft cloth, such as a lens cleaning cloth.

Do not rub the area too hard, as it can be easily scratched.

Notes on Adding and Removing Memory Modules (SVF143/SVF153)

Before adding or removing memory modules, read the following precautions thoroughly.

  • Your VAIO computer and memory modules use high precision components and electronic connector technology. To avoid invalidation of the warranty during your product warranty period, we recommend that:

    • You should contact your dealer to install a new memory module.

    • You should not install a memory module by yourself, if you are not familiar with upgrading memory on a computer.

    • You should not touch the connectors or open the memory module compartment cover.

  • For assistance, contact an authorized Sony service/support center. To find the nearest center or agent, see About Online Support Websites.

  • If you add or remove memory modules by yourself, your VAIO computer may result in malfunction or accident caused by breakage of slot and module, or connection mistake. In this case, repair fee will be charged.

  • Be careful not to injure your hands or fingers with sharp edges of the memory module, inner components, or circuit boards of your VAIO computer.

  • Be careful not to catch your fingers on any inner cables of your VAIO computer, as the cable may become loose or disconnected.

  • If your VAIO computer is turned on while liquid such as water or other foreign object remains inside, it may cause a fire. Be sure to remove any foreign objects and attach the memory module compartment cover before turning on your VAIO computer.

  • Sony does not guarantee that third party memory modules will work in your VAIO computer. For information on third party memory modules, consult the respective sales dealers.

  • Be sure to turn off your VAIO computer and peripherals and disconnect all attachments and connection cables before adding or removing memory modules. Failure to do so may cause damage to the memory module, your VAIO computer, or peripheral devices.

  • To prevent damage from electrostatic discharge to memory modules, follow the instructions below:

    • Do not work at a place that produces static electricity easily, such as on a carpet.

    • Before adding or removing memory modules, touch an external metal object from your VAIO computer to eliminate static electricity. Do not touch any metal parts inside the computer.

    • Do not open the memory module package before you are ready to install the module. The package protects the module from ESD (electrostatic discharge). To store the module, cover it with an antistatic bag or a sheet of aluminum foil.

  • When holding a memory module, do not touch the chips or electrical terminal of the module.

  • Do not insert a memory module into the slot facing in wrong direction. It may cause damage to the module or slot, or cause the circuit board to catch fire.

  • Use a screwdriver that matches the size of the screw (such as a miniature screwdriver).

  • Do not remove or loosen screws that are not specified to be removed.

Adding and Removing Memory Modules (SVF143/SVF153)

If you want to increase your computer’s speed or improve performance when running programs simultaneously, increase the amount of memory by installing optional memory modules.

Before you upgrade your computer’s memory, see Notes on Adding and Removing Memory Modules (SVF143/SVF153).

If you install memory modules into two or more slots, the dual-channel mode is enabled to help improve performance.

The type of module and the amount of memory installed on your computer may differ depending on the model.

  1. Turn off your VAIO computer and peripheral devices, disconnect the power cord and all connection cables, and remove the battery pack.

    See Removing the Battery Pack (SVF143/SVF153) for information on how to remove the battery pack.

  2. Wait for a while until your VAIO computer cools down.

    The inner parts of your VAIO computer may be hot just after turning off. Be careful to avoid burns while handling your VAIO computer in this state.

  3. Lay a clean cloth on a level, flat surface, place your VAIO computer on it as illustrated below. Remove the screws with a cross slot screwdriver to open the memory module compartment cover.

    The screw locations are indicated by the arrows in the illustration below.

    On some models, captive screws are used on the memory module compartment cover and cannot be detached from the cover.

    A protective sheet covers the memory module under the cover. Lift the sheet when installing/removing the memory module.

    Be careful not to lift the sheet so much that it is detached or folded back.

  4. Touch an external metal object to discharge static electricity.

    Do not touch any metal parts inside your VAIO computer.

  5. If there is no free slot, remove the currently installed memory module. Pull the latches in the direction of the arrows to pop up the module at an angle (1), then pull the module out in the direction of the arrow (2).

  6. Remove the new memory module from its antistatic bag.
  7. Hold the memory module by its edge and slide it into the memory module slot with its end terminal facing downward while aligning the notch on the module with the small projection in the slot.

  8. Hold the memory module by its edge and push in until it clicks into place as shown in the illustration.

    The latches on both sides of the slot snap into place to secure the module. Do not touch any ICs (black components) on the memory module.

  9. Replace the memory module compartment cover and secure it with the screws you removed in step 3.
  10. Install the battery pack and connect all connection cables and peripherals that you removed in step 1, and turn on the computer.
  11. Check that the amount of system memory has correctly changed.

    If the amount of indicated system memory is correct, memory module installation was successful.

    To check the system information, see Viewing the System Information.

Charging a USB Device

You can charge a USB device even while your VAIO computer is off, in Hibernate mode, or Sleep mode by enabling the USB charging settings.

The USB charging settings are disabled by default.

  1. Click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Control Center.
  2. Click Power Management and USB Charging Settings to enable the settings.
  3. Connect a USB device to the USB port with themark printed around it.

    If charging does not start even when you connect a USB device to the USB port that supports USB charging, disconnect and connect the device.

Note

  • With the USB charging settings enabled, power consumption when your VAIO computer is off or in Hibernate mode or Sleep mode increases because the computer supplies power to the USB port even when a USB device is not connected to the port.

  • When the USB charging settings are enabled, you cannot use the remote wake-up function on the USB device connected to the USB port that supports USB charging.

Connecting a USB Device

You can connect a Universal Serial Bus (USB) device such as a mouse, floppy disk drive, speaker or printer to your VAIO computer.

Installation of the device driver software supplied with the USB device may be required when connecting.

Refer to the manual that came with the device for more information.

  1. Choose the USB port () you prefer to use.
  2. Plug the USB device cable () (not supplied) into the USB port.

Note

  • You may need to install the driver software supplied with your USB device before use. Refer to the manual that came with the USB device for more information.

  • In order to print documents, be sure the USB printer is compatible with your version of Windows.

  • Before disconnecting USB speakers from your VAIO computer, stop DVD or music playback or turn off the computer. If you disconnect the USB speakers during playback, it may cause a malfunction.

    For information on how to remove a USB device, refer to the manual that came with the device.

  • To protect your VAIO computer and/or USB devices from damage, observe the following:

    • When moving your VAIO computer with USB devices connected, avoid exposing the USB ports to shock or impact.

    • Do not put your VAIO computer in a bag or carrying case with USB devices connected.

Hint

  • The USB ports on your VAIO computer are compliant with the USB 2.0 standard and/or USB 3.0 standard.

    USB ports that are compliant with the USB 3.0 standard are identifiable by their blue color.

  • In addition to the USB 2.0 standard transfer modes, the USB 3.0 standard specifies the following transfer mode:

    • SuperSpeed: Transfer rate of 5 Gbps.

Notes on Using SD Memory Cards

Before using SD memory cards, read the following precautions for correct use.

  • Keep an SD memory card out of reach of children. There is a risk of swallowing it.

  • Do not touch the SD memory card connector with your finger or metal objects.

  • An SD memory card contains delicate electronic components. Do not impact, bend or drop it.

  • Do not disassemble or modify an SD memory card.

  • Do not wet an SD memory card.

  • Do not use or store in a location subject to:

    • Extremely high temperature, such as in a car parked in the sun

    • Direct sunlight

    • High humidity or corrosive substances

    • Excessive dust

  • Do not attempt to insert a memory card or memory card adaptor of a different type into the SD memory card slot. Incompatible cards and adaptors may get stuck in the slot, causing damage to your VAIO computer.

  • You cannot write data to an SD memory card that is write-protected.

  • It is recommended that you make a backup copy of important data.

  • Stored data may be lost or corrupted if:

    • You remove an SD memory card or turn off your VAIO computer while data is being read from or written to the SD memory card.

    • You use an SD memory card at a place where static electricity or electrical noise may disturb the card.

  • When carrying an SD memory card, be sure to put it in its case to avoid static electricity.

  • Before using an SD memory card with a device other than a computer, such as a digital camera or a portable audio, format (initialize) the SD memory card using the device.

    Some devices may not support the file format for computers and show you a message that recommends you to format the SD memory card. In this case, copy data from the card to your VAIO computer and format the card using the device. All data in the SD memory card will be deleted when you format it.

    Refer to the manual that came with the device for more information.

  • Do not insert foreign objects into the SD memory card slot.

  • The SD memory card slot can be used for reading/writing supported memory cards only, and cannot be used for other purposes.

  • SD memory cards (up to 2 GB), SDHC memory cards (up to 32 GB) and SDXC memory cards (up to 128 GB) available as of August 2013 have been tested and found compatible with your VAIO computer. However, it is not guaranteed that all SD memory cards, SDHC memory cards or SDXC memory cards will be compatible with the computer.

  • For SVF143/SVF153, the SD memory card slot on your VAIO computer does not support the copyright protection feature of the SD memory card, the SDHC memory card, and the SDXC memory card.

  • Some types of SD memory cards, for example ones with the UHS (Ultra High Speed data transfer feature), may become extremely hot due to continuous access to the memory cards. In such a case, wait for a while before removing the memory card until it cools down.

Inserting SD Memory Cards

Your VAIO computer is equipped with an SD memory card slot. You can use this slot to transfer data among digital cameras, camcorders, music players, and other audio/video devices.

The SD memory card slot on the computer can accommodate the following memory cards:

  • SD memory card

  • SDHC memory card

  • SDXC memory card

To insert an SD memory card, follow these steps.

  1. Locate the SD memory card slot.
  2. Hold the SD memory card with the arrow pointing toward the slot, and carefully slide it into the slot until it clicks into place.

The SD memory card icon will appear in the Computer window after you insert the card into the slot.

Note

  • Be careful not to insert an SD memory card with wrong orientation. If you force it into the slot upside down, the slot may be damaged. Refer to the manual that came with the SD memory card for more information.

  • The SD memory card icon will not appear in the Computer window until you insert the card into the slot.

Hint

  • 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.

Removing SD Memory Cards

This topic explains how to remove an SD memory card.

  1. Locate the SD memory card slot.
  2. Click(Start) and Computer.
  3. Right-click the SD memory card icon and click Eject.
  4. Push in the SD memory card toward your VAIO computer and release.
  5. Pull the SD memory card out of the slot.

Creating Other Drives (Modifying Partitions)

Partitions are divided areas on your built-in storage device. Dividing the built-in storage device into more than one partition may have various advantages, such as separating the system files from your data files.

Your VAIO computer has only one partition (C: drive) as the factory default setting.

If you want to store data in another partition, such as D: drive, change the partition size and create a new partition.

There are two ways to create partitions: using Windows and creating during recovery.

For more information on how to create partitions, refer to Windows Help and Support or see Creating Partitions during Recovery.

Hint

  • Some models may have D: drive as the factory default setting.

Creating Partitions in Windows

The Windows feature allows you to create a partition without recovering your VAIO computer system.

  1. Click(Start), Control Panel, System and Security, and Create and format hard disk partitions under Administrative Tools.

    If the User Account Control window appears, select Yes.

  2. Right-click the C: drive and select Shrink Volume.
  3. Enter the size of the partition to be created in Enter the amount of space to shrink in MB and click Shrink.
  4. Right-click Unallocated and select New Simple Volume.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Hint

  • If you are currently logged onto your VAIO computer as a standard user, you may be prompted to enter an administrator name and password.

Creating Partitions during Recovery

This topic describes how to create partitions.

There are two ways to create partitions: using Windows and creating during recovery. To create partitions during recovery, follow these steps:

  1. Press the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is off.
    The VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen appears.
  2. Select Start VAIO recovery solutions.
    Follow the on-screen instructions until the VAIO Care Rescue screen appears.
  3. Click Tools and Start advanced recovery wizard.
    Follow the on-screen instructions until a screen to select recovery type appears.
  4. Click Custom recovery - Resize C: and create D: drive.
  5. Enter the C: drive size and click Next.
  6. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Note

  • If you create partitions during recovery, all data on your built-in storage device will be erased.

  • If you reduce the partition size of the C: drive, Recovery Media creation may fail due to disk space shortage.

Hint

  • If the display language selection window appears, select your desired language and click OK.

Creating Other Drives (Modifying Partitions)

Partitions are divided areas on your built-in storage device. Dividing the built-in storage device into more than one partition may have various advantages, such as separating the system files from your data files.

Your VAIO computer has only one partition (C: drive) as the factory default setting.

If you want to store data in another partition, such as D: drive, change the partition size and create a new partition.

There are two ways to create partitions: using Windows and creating during recovery.

For more information on how to create partitions, refer to Windows Help and Support or see Creating Partitions during Recovery.

Hint

  • Some models may have D: drive as the factory default setting.

Creating Partitions in Windows

The Windows feature allows you to create a partition without recovering your VAIO computer system.

  1. Click(Start), Control Panel, System and Security, and Create and format hard disk partitions under Administrative Tools.

    If the User Account Control window appears, select Yes.

  2. Right-click the C: drive and select Shrink Volume.
  3. Enter the size of the partition to be created in Enter the amount of space to shrink in MB and click Shrink.
  4. Right-click Unallocated and select New Simple Volume.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Hint

  • If you are currently logged onto your VAIO computer as a standard user, you may be prompted to enter an administrator name and password.

Creating Partitions during Recovery

This topic describes how to create partitions.

There are two ways to create partitions: using Windows and creating during recovery. To create partitions during recovery, follow these steps:

  1. Press the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is off.
    The VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen appears.
  2. Select Start VAIO recovery solutions.
    Follow the on-screen instructions until the VAIO Care Rescue screen appears.
  3. Click Tools and Start advanced recovery wizard.
    Follow the on-screen instructions until a screen to select recovery type appears.
  4. Click Custom recovery - Resize C: and create D: drive.
  5. Enter the C: drive size and click Next.
  6. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Note

  • If you create partitions during recovery, all data on your built-in storage device will be erased.

  • If you reduce the partition size of the C: drive, Recovery Media creation may fail due to disk space shortage.

Hint

  • If the display language selection window appears, select your desired language and click OK.

Read This First

Congratulations on your purchase of this VAIO(R) computer and welcome to the on-screen User Guide.

About your VAIO computer’s configuration

To find out about the configuration of your VAIO computer, visit the Sony online support website. See About Online Support Websites for more information.

Some features, options, and supplied items may not be available on your VAIO computer.

Features

Available features vary depending on the model or options you selected. Not all features described in this manual are available depending on your model.

Illustrations

Illustrations, photos, or screenshots in this manual may look slightly different depending on the model or options you selected.

Software

The preinstalled software may vary depending on the model or options you selected. The software described in this manual may not be preinstalled on your VAIO computer.

Supplied manuals

The following manuals are supplied with your VAIO computer.

On-screen documentation

  • User Guide - Introduction Version (Welcome)

    A preinstalled manual with limited information of your VAIO computer, focused on support and Internet connection. The User Guide - Introduction Version is replaced with a complete version of the User Guide (this manual), after update.

  • User Guide (this manual)

    General information and operation instructions about your VAIO computer including support and troubleshooting information

    Select the item you want to check from the navigation pane on the left, then the keyword from the right pane. The list of topics relating to the keyword will be displayed. If you cannot find the topic you are looking for, select List of Topics to display all of the topics in this User Guide, or enter the keyword in the search box at the top of each page.

Printed documentation

  • Quick Start Guide

    An overview of how to set up and get started with your VAIO computer

  • Recovery, Backup and Troubleshooting Guide

    Information on how to recover and back up your VAIO computer, as well as troubleshooting information

  • Safety Regulations and Support Information

    Read carefully before activating the wireless functions such as the wireless LAN and BLUETOOTH technology.

Other references

  • Windows Help and Support

    A comprehensive resource for practical advice, tutorials, and demonstrations to help you learn to use your VAIO computer.

    To open Windows Help and Support, click(Start) and Help and Support.

  • Software help files

    Software help files may be included with the preinstalled software on your VAIO computer. You may be able to access the help files from the help menu.

Notice

  • Copyright 2013 Sony Corporation. All rights reserved.

  • This manual and the software described herein, in whole or in part, may not be reproduced, translated, or reduced to any machine-readable form without prior written approval.

  • Sony Corporation provides no warranty with regard to this manual, the software, or other information contained herein and hereby expressly disclaims any implied warranties or merchantability or fitness for any particular purpose with regard to this manual, the software, or such other information. In no event shall Sony Corporation be liable for any incidental, consequential, or special damages, whether based on tort, contract, or otherwise, arising out of or in connection with this manual, the software, or other information contained herein or the use thereof.

  • In the manual, the (TM) or (R) 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 compensate for any lost recordings made to your VAIO computer, external recording media, or recording devices or any relevant losses, including when recordings are not made due to reasons including the computer failure, or when the contents of a recording are lost or damaged as a result of the computer failure or repair undertaken to the computer. Sony Corporation will not restore, recover, or replicate the recorded contents made to the computer, external recording media, or recording devices under any circumstances.

  • Features and specifications are subject to change without notice.

Updating Your VAIO Computer

Be sure to update your VAIO computer with the following software applications to enhance the computer’s efficiency, security, and functionality.

Note

  • Your VAIO computer must be connected to the Internet to download the updates.

Windows Update

Windows Update enables you to make your VAIO computer more stable.

  1. Click(Start), All Programs, and Windows Update.

  2. Follow the on-screen instructions.

VAIO Update

VAIO Update automatically notifies you of new updates available on the Internet, and downloads and installs them on your VAIO computer.

  1. Click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Update.

  2. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Setting Up an Appropriate Work Environment

This topic describes where to or not to place your VAIO computer and ergonomic instructions.

Where to place your VAIO computer

When placing your VAIO computer, ensure that:

  • You have easy access to a power source and necessary ports.

  • You leave enough space around the computer.

  • The computer is placed on a flat surface that is wide enough and you can face the computer screen as you operate it.

  • You can place the computer in front of you where you can sit upright and keep your forearms parallel to the floor.

Where not to place your VAIO computer

Placing your VAIO computer in an inappropriate location may cause damage or a malfunction. Do not place the computer in a location subject to:

  • Direct sunlight

  • Magnetic items or sources

  • Heat sources, such as residential heating equipment

  • Excessive dust

  • High humidity

  • Poor ventilation

Note

  • The area around the air exhaust vent may become extremely hot while your VAIO computer is on. Be careful before touching the area.

  • Do not place any object near the air exhaust vent that may block the vent.

Hint

  • Your VAIO computer uses high-frequency radio signals and may cause interference to radio or TV reception. If this occurs, move the computer a suitable distance away from the radio or TV.

Ergonomic considerations

Whenever possible, you should attempt to take account of the following ergonomic considerations.

Furniture and posture

Sit in a chair with good back support. Adjust the level of the chair so your feet are flat on the floor. A footrest may make you more comfortable.

Sit in a relaxed, upright posture and avoid slouching forward or leaning far backwards.

Viewing angle of the computer screen

Use the screen tilting feature to find the best position. Make sure the computer screen is at or slightly below eye level when you are sitting in front of your VAIO computer. Adjust the brightness level of the display as well.

You can reduce eye strain and muscle fatigue by adjusting the tilt and brightness level of the computer screen to the proper position.

Lighting

Choose a location where windows and lights do not cause glare and reflection on the computer screen. Use indirect lighting to avoid bright spots on the computer screen. Proper lighting adds to your comfort and work efficiency.

Note

  • While adjusting the viewing angle, do not exert excessive pressure on your VAIO computer to eliminate a risk of mechanical damage.

Hint

  • The same considerations apply when you use an external display.

Notes on handling your VAIO computer

Observe the following to avoid malfunctions and damage to your VAIO computer.

  • Place your VAIO computer gently on a flat surface to avoid a mechanical shock.

  • Be sure to turn off your VAIO computer before moving the computer. Moving the computer that is turned on may cause a hard disk malfunction. Be sure to disconnect all cables connected to the computer before moving it.

  • Do not drop or hit your VAIO computer. Even a slight shock or vibration may cause a hard disk malfunction.

  • Do not place your VAIO computer in an unstable position.

Handling Discs (Optical disc drive equipped models)

Read the following to protect data stored on discs and take proper care of discs.

  • Be sure to hold the disc by its edges and central hole without touching the recording surface (playing surface), as shown below.

    Fingerprints and dust on the surface of a disc may cause a read or write error. Be sure to keep the disc clean.

  • Sony assumes no liability for any problems and damages to discs arising out of adhesive labels affixed to discs. Refer to the manual carefully that came with the label software or label paper, and use the labels under your responsibility.

To take proper care of discs

  • For normal cleaning, hold the disc by its edges and use a soft cloth to wipe the surface from the center out, as shown below.

  • If the disc is badly soiled, moisten a soft cloth with water, wring it out well, and use it to wipe the surface of the disc. Wipe off any remaining moisture with a dry soft cloth.

  • Do not use solvents such as benzine, thinner, commercially available cleaners, or anti-static spray which may cause damage to the disc.

About Region Codes (Optical disc drive equipped models)

The following is a list of DVD region codes indicating playable regions of DVD media.

You can check the region codes of DVD media sold in the following countries or regions.

  1. USA, Canada
  2. Europe, Middle East, South Africa, Japan
  3. Southeast Asia, Taiwan, South Korea, Hong Kong
  4. Central America, South America, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand
  5. North Africa, Asia, Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, India
  6. China
  7. Reserved for future use
  8. International aircraft, international cruise ship, international conference hall, etc.

If it is your first time to play a DVD video on your VAIO computer, follow these steps before inserting the disc:

  1. Click(Start) and Computer.

  2. Right-click the optical disc drive icon and select Properties.

  3. Click the Hardware tab.
  4. Select your optical disc drive from the All disk drives list and click Properties.
  5. Click the DVD Region tab.
  6. Select an appropriate region from the list and click OK.

Note

  • You can change the region code only a limited number of times. When you have exceeded this number, the drive’s region code is permanently assigned and you will not be able to change it again. Reconfiguring your VAIO computer does not reset this count.

  • Any difficulties caused by changing the region code settings of the drive are not covered by the warranty.

Supported Discs (Optical disc drive equipped models)

This topic explains media types that are playable/recordable on your VAIO computer.

The installed optical disc drive varies depending on the model you purchased. Check the specifications before use.

For DVD SuperMulti Drive equipped models

The optical disc drive supports playback and/or recording of the following media.

Playback and recording

  • CD-R/RW*1

  • DVD-R/RW

  • DVD+R/RW

  • DVD+R DL (Double Layer)

  • DVD-R DL (Dual Layer)

  • DVD-RAM*2*3

Playback only

  • CD-ROM

  • DVD-ROM

For Blu-ray Disc(TM) Drive with DVD SuperMulti equipped models

The optical disc drive supports playback and/or recording of the following media.

Playback and recording

  • CD-R/RW*1

  • DVD-R/RW

  • DVD+R/RW

  • DVD+R DL (Double Layer)

  • DVD-R DL (Dual Layer)

  • DVD-RAM*2*3

  • BD-R SL (Single Layer)/DL (Dual Layer), BD-RE SL/DL*4

  • BD-R TL (Triple Layer), BD-RE TL*5

Playback only

  • CD-ROM

  • DVD-ROM

  • BD-ROM

For Blu-ray Disc(TM) ROM Drive with DVD SuperMulti equipped models

The optical disc drive supports playback and/or recording of the following media.

Playback and recording

  • CD-R/RW*1

  • DVD-R/RW

  • DVD+R/RW

  • DVD+R DL (Double Layer)

  • DVD-R DL (Dual Layer)

  • DVD-RAM*2*3

Playback only

  • CD-ROM

  • DVD-ROM

  • BD-R SL (Single Layer)/DL (Dual Layer), BD-RE SL/DL*4

  • BD-ROM

*1 Writing data to Ultra Speed CD-RW media is not supported.

*2 The optical disc drive does not support the DVD-RAM cartridge. Use non-cartridge discs or discs with a removable cartridge.

*3 Writing data to single-sided DVD-RAM media (2.6 GB) compliant with DVD-RAM Version 1.0 is not supported. DVD-RAM Version 2.2/12X-SPEED DVD-RAM Revision 5.0 media are not supported.

*4 BD-RE Disc media in Version 1.0 format and Blu-ray Disc media with a cartridge are not supported.

*5 Available when the optical disc drive supports BDXL(TM) media. Some software may not support playback and/or recording of BD-R TL/BD-RE TL media, and the preinstalled software vary depending on the model you purchased. Refer to the help files included with the software for more information. Other players may not support playback of BD R TL/BD-RE TL media on which you recorded data with your VAIO computer. Make sure your player supports BD R TL/BD-RE TL media.

Note

  • Your optical disc drive may not support writing or playback of some types of media.

  • Your optical disc drive does not support 8 cm disc writing.

  • Your optical disc drive supports only circular discs. Do not use discs in any other shape (star, heart, card, etc.) or damaged discs, as it may cause your VAIO computer to malfunction.

  • DVD-Video format data can be written to DVD+R (single layer or dual layer), DVD+RW/DVD-R (single layer or dual layer), and DVD-RW media. DVD-Video Recording format data can be written to DVD-R (single layer or dual layer), DVD-RW, and DVD-RAM media. Writable media differ depending on the disc burning software you use. Refer to the help file included with the software for more information.

  • It is recommended that you use Sony branded media: DVD+R, DVD+RW, DVD-R, DVD-RW, CD-R, CD-RW, BD-R, or BD-RE.

  • You cannot write data to DVD-RW media (6x writing) unless your optical disc drive supports at least 6x writing for DVD-RW media.

  • You cannot write data to DVD+RW media (8x writing) unless your optical disc drive supports at least 8x writing for DVD+RW media.

  • Your VAIO computer is designed to playback discs that conform to the Compact Disc (CD) standard. DualDiscs and some music discs encoded with copyright protection technologies do not conform to the CD standard. Therefore, these discs may not be compatible with the computer.

  • When you buy pre-recorded or blank discs for use with your VAIO computer, be sure to read the notices on the disc package carefully to check both playback and recording compatibility with your computer’s optical disc drives. Sony does NOT guarantee the compatibility of VAIO optical disc drives with discs that are not compliant with the official "CD," "DVD," or "Blu-ray Disc" standard. USING NON-COMPLIANT DISCS CAN CAUSE FATAL DAMAGE TO YOUR VAIO COMPUTER OR CREATE SOFTWARE CONFLICTS AND CAUSE SYSTEM HANGING.

    For inquiries about disc formats, contact the individual publisher of the pre-recorded disc or the manufacturer of the recordable disc.

  • Your VAIO computer needs to be connected to the Internet to play DVD-RW, DVD-RAM, and DVD-R (single layer or dual layer) media that are compliant with the Content Protection for Recordable Media (CPRM) standard.

  • To record, edit, or play copyright protected content, Blu-ray Disc media employs the Advanced Access Content System (AACS) technology. To use Blu-ray Disc media continually, you need to update the AACS key.

  • You can update the AACS key through the Internet. Follow a message displayed on recording, editing, or playback software you are using. Without updating the AACS key, you may become unable to record, edit, or play copyright protected content.

    To record, edit, or play content without copyright protection, you do not need to update the AACS key. You can update the AACS key for the Blu-ray Disc recording or playback software installed on your VAIO computer for five years after purchase. After that, we will inform you about the update on the support website.

  • Region settings are required for some contents of DVD and BD-ROM Disc media. If the region setting on the optical disc drive does not match the region code on the disc, playback is not possible.

  • Unless your external display is compliant with the High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP) standard, you cannot play or view the contents of copyright protected Blu-ray Disc media through an HDMI connection.

  • Some Blu-ray Disc content may restrict video output to standard definition or prohibit analog video output.

Notes on Using Discs (Optical disc drive equipped models)

Observe the following notes when using discs on your VAIO computer.

Notes on playing discs

  • Depending on system environment, you may find sound interruptions and/or dropped frames during DVD/BD/AVCHD playback. In addition, some discs may not be able to play on your VAIO computer.

  • When you are playing discs:

    • The CPU load increases. Close all running software other than the playback software you are currently using to enjoy smoother playback.

    • Do not switch the display output between the computer screen and an external display.

Notes on playing recorded discs on other players

  • Some CD players may not be able to play audio CDs created with CD-R or CD-RW media.

  • Some DVD players may not be able to play DVDs created with DVD+R DL, DVD-R DL, DVD+R, DVD+RW, DVD-R, DVD-RW, or DVD-RAM media.

  • Blu-ray Disc recorders that support only BD-RE Ver.1.0 cannot play BD-R or BD-RE media created with your VAIO computer. (Blu-ray Disc Drive with DVD SuperMulti equipped models)

Tips for successful writing

  • Do not plug or unplug cables, such as the AC adapter or the power cord while the optical disc drive is writing data to a disc.

  • The writing process may take longer to complete than theoretically predicted because some software writes and verifies data simultaneously.

  • Sony assumes no liability for any loss or damage of any kind arising out of writing failure.

Cleaning Your VAIO computer/LCD screen

Before cleaning your VAIO computer, read the following precautions for the correct cleaning procedure.

When cleaning your VAIO computer

  • Turn off your VAIO computer, unplug the AC adapter, and remove the battery pack before cleaning the computer. (Removable battery pack supplied models)

  • Turn off your VAIO computer and unplug the AC adapter before cleaning the computer. (Built-in battery pack models)

  • Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe debris and dust off your VAIO computer.

  • Be sure to use a soft, dry cloth when cleaning your VAIO computer. If the computer is badly soiled, fog the surface of the computer with your breath and wipe off the dirt, or clean off with a lightly wet cloth and then wipe remaining moisture away with a dry cloth.

  • Do not use solvents such as benzine, acetone, alcohol, thinner, or commercially available cleaners, as these may cause damage to the surface or coating of your VAIO computer.

  • Use a blower to blow off debris and dust underneath the keys (keycaps). Do not remove any keycap from the keyboard.

    Do not use a vacuum cleaner, as it may cause a malfunction.

When cleaning your LCD screen

  • Be sure to use a soft, dry cloth when cleaning your VAIO computer. If the LCD screen is badly soiled, fog the surface of the LCD screen with your breath and wipe off the dirt, or clean off with a lightly wet cloth and then wipe remaining moisture away with a dry cloth.

  • Do not use solvents such as benzine, acetone, alcohol, thinner, or commercially available cleaners, as these may cause damage to the LCD screen.

Safety Information

Refer to the supplied safety manual for detailed safety information.

Computer

  • If you drop a solid object or any liquid onto your VAIO computer, shut down the computer, unplug it, and remove the battery pack if it is removable. You may want to have the computer checked by qualified personnel before operating it again.

  • Use only specified peripheral equipment and interface cables.

  • Keep small parts such as memory cards and memory card adaptors out of reach of children. There is a risk of swallowing them.

  • The temperature of the surface and the bottom of your VAIO computer, the AC adapter, and the battery may rise due to the CPU load or an electric current generated while the battery is being charged. This is normal and does not indicate a malfunction. The amount of heat generation varies depending on external devices or software in use.

  • If your VAIO computer or the AC adapter becomes extraordinarily hot, turn off the computer, unplug the AC adapter, remove the battery pack if it is removable, and then contact an authorized Sony service/support center.

Power source

  • 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. Never pull the cord itself.

  • Do not use cut or damaged connection cables.

  • Unplug your VAIO computer from the AC outlet if you are not planning to use the computer for an extended period of time.

  • If you are not using your VAIO computer for an extended period of time, remove the battery pack from the computer to prevent damage to the battery pack. (Removable battery pack supplied models)

Headphones

  • Do not use headphones while driving, cycling, or operating any motorized vehicle. It may create a traffic hazard and is illegal in some areas. It can also be potentially dangerous to play loud music while walking, especially at pedestrian crossings.

  • Avoid using headphones at high volume. Hearing experts advise against continuous, loud and extended play. If you experience a ringing in your ears, reduce the volume or discontinue use.

Handling the Built-in Storage Device

The built-in storage device (hard disk drive or solid state drive) has a high storage density and reads or writes data in a short time. However, it can be easily damaged if improperly used.

If the built-in storage device is damaged, the data cannot be restored. To prevent losing data, you should be careful when handling your VAIO computer.

To avoid damaging your built-in storage device

  • Do not subject your VAIO computer to sudden movements.

  • Keep your VAIO computer away from magnets.

  • Do not place your VAIO computer in a location subject to mechanical vibration or in an unstable position.

  • Do not turn off the power or restart your VAIO computer while reading or writing data to the storage device.

  • Do not use your VAIO computer in a place subject to extreme changes in temperature.

  • Do not remove the storage device from your VAIO computer.

About the Software License

This product contains software owned by Sony and licensed by third parties. Use of such software is subject to the terms and conditions of license agreements enclosed with this product.

About the International ENERGY STAR(R) Program

The following information is applicable to ENERGY STAR qualified/certified products only.

ENERGY STAR logos are attached or electronically displayed on the following locations of ENERGY STAR qualified/certified products.

  • The top or the front of the product or Control Panel

  • The product packaging

To confirm the ENERGY STAR logo on the computer screen, click(Start), Control Panel, System and Security and System.

As an ENERGY STAR Partner, Sony confirmed that this product meets the ENERGY STAR standards for energy efficiency.

The International ENERGY STAR Office Equipment Program is an international program that promotes energy saving through the use of energy efficient computers and office equipment. The program supports the development and dissemination of products with functions that effectively reduce energy consumption to contribute to cost savings and reduction of environmental burdens.

For detailed information on the ENERGY STAR Program, visit the following websites:

This computer is designed in compliance with the ENERGY STAR standards and delivered with the following power saving settings that apply to the computer running on AC power:

  • The LCD backlight is turned off automatically after no more than 15 minutes of inactivity.

  • The computer enters Sleep mode automatically after no more than 30 minutes of inactivity.

Press the(Power) button to bring the computer back into Normal mode.

Trademarks

  • SONY and the SONY logo are registered trademarks of Sony Corporation.

  • VAIO, the VAIO logo and other Sony product or service names are trademarks or registered trademarks of Sony Corporation or any of its affiliates.

  • i.LINK is a name to denote IEEE 1394.

  • Intel, Pentium, Intel SpeedStep, and Atom are trademarks or registered trademarks of Intel Corporation.

  • Windows and the Windows logo are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.

  • Blu-ray Disc™, Blu-ray™, Blu-ray 3D™, the Blu-ray Disc logo, and the Blu-ray 3D 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 license. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners.

  • PowerDVD is trademark of CyberLink.Inc.

  • NVIDIA and 3D Vision are registered trademarks and/or trademarks of NVIDIA Corporation in the United States and other countries.

  • ArcSoft and the ArcSoft logo are registered trademarks of ArcSoft, Inc. ArcSoft WebCam Companion is a trademark of ArcSoft, Inc.

  • AMD, the AMD Arrow logo, ATI, and combinations thereof, Radeon, AMD Phenom, AMD Turion, AMD Athlon, AMD Virtualization, AMD-V are trademarks of Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.

  • SD Logo is a trademark.

  • SDHC Logo is a trademark.

  • SDXC Logo is a trademark.

  • The ExpressCard word mark and logos are owned by the PCMCIA and any use of such marks by Sony Corporation is under license. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners.

  • The terms HDMI and HDMI High-Definition Multimedia Interface, and the HDMI Logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of HDMI Licensing LLC in the United States and other countries.

  • CompactFlash® is a trademark of SanDisk Corporation.

  • "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.

  • Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories. Dolby and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.

  • ENERGY STAR and the ENERGY STAR mark are registered U.S. marks.

  • Wi-Fi is a trademark or registered trademark of Wi-Fi Alliance.

All other names of systems, products, and services are trademarks of their respective owners. In the manual, the ™ or ® marks are not specified.

Features and specifications are subject to change without notice.

All other trademarks are trademarks of their respective owners.

Not all the software listed above may be delivered with your model.

Updating Your VAIO Computer

Be sure to update your VAIO computer with the following software applications to enhance the computer’s efficiency, security, and functionality.

Note

  • Your VAIO computer must be connected to the Internet to download the updates.

Windows Update

Windows Update enables you to make your VAIO computer more stable.

  1. Click(Start), All Programs, and Windows Update.

  2. Follow the on-screen instructions.

VAIO Update

VAIO Update automatically notifies you of new updates available on the Internet, and downloads and installs them on your VAIO computer.

  1. Click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Update.

  2. Follow the on-screen instructions.

About Online Support Websites

The online support website provides information about frequently asked questions about your VAIO computer.

Sony online support website

http://www.sony.eu/support/

Hint

  • If you experience any problem and have a technical question about your VAIO computer, launch VAIO Care first, which offers you various options to help you solve the problem. See Keeping Your VAIO Computer in Optimum Condition (VAIO Care) for more information.

  • When you contact VAIO support, you may be asked for the serial number and the model number of your VAIO computer. The serial number is a 15-digit number that can be found:

    • in the VAIO Care window;

    • on the bottom, the back panel of the computer, inside the back panel or inside the battery compartment;

    • on the original VAIO box.

    The model number is located at the lower right corner of the display on the VAIO computer.

Other websites

You can find other useful information from the following URL.

Sony products

http://www.sony.net/

http://www.sony.net/electronics/

Operating system online support website

For Microsoft Windows operating system support, visit the Microsoft customer support site.

http://support.microsoft.com/

The VAIO website

VAIO product information, online store, forum and discussions.

http://www.sony.eu/

The VAIO Forum

Interact with other VAIO users in VAIO social community.

http://www.sony.eu/discussions/community/en/support/vaio_and_computing/

Sony Store, Online

https://shop.sony-europe.com/

Hint

  • You can find a link to register your computer online in VAIO Care. Click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Care.

Solving Common Problems with Your VAIO Computer

If you have any problem operating your VAIO computer, try these suggestions before contacting an authorized Sony service/support center or your local Sony dealer directly.

  1. See other sections in this on-screen manual.
  2. Start VAIO Care and perform necessary operations. (See Keeping Your VAIO Computer in Optimum Condition (VAIO Care) to start VAIO Care.)
  3. Visit the VAIO online support website and find necessary information.

About Online Support Websites

The online support website provides information about frequently asked questions about your VAIO computer.

Sony online support website

http://www.sony.eu/support/

Hint

  • If you experience any problem and have a technical question about your VAIO computer, launch VAIO Care first, which offers you various options to help you solve the problem. See Keeping Your VAIO Computer in Optimum Condition (VAIO Care) for more information.

  • When you contact VAIO support, you may be asked for the serial number and the model number of your VAIO computer. The serial number is a 15-digit number that can be found:

    • in the VAIO Care window;

    • on the bottom, the back panel of the computer, inside the back panel or inside the battery compartment;

    • on the original VAIO box.

    The model number is located at the lower right corner of the display on the VAIO computer.

Other websites

You can find other useful information from the following URL.

Sony products

http://www.sony.net/

http://www.sony.net/electronics/

Operating system online support website

For Microsoft Windows operating system support, visit the Microsoft customer support site.

http://support.microsoft.com/

The VAIO website

VAIO product information, online store, forum and discussions.

http://www.sony.eu/

The VAIO Forum

Interact with other VAIO users in VAIO social community.

http://www.sony.eu/discussions/community/en/support/vaio_and_computing/

Sony Store, Online

https://shop.sony-europe.com/

Hint

  • You can find a link to register your computer online in VAIO Care. Click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Care.

Updating Your VAIO Computer

Be sure to update your VAIO computer with the following software applications to enhance the computer’s efficiency, security, and functionality.

Note

  • Your VAIO computer must be connected to the Internet to download the updates.

Windows Update

Windows Update enables you to make your VAIO computer more stable.

  1. Click(Start), All Programs, and Windows Update.

  2. Follow the on-screen instructions.

VAIO Update

VAIO Update automatically notifies you of new updates available on the Internet, and downloads and installs them on your VAIO computer.

  1. Click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Update.

  2. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Why doesn't my VAIO computer enter Hibernate mode when the battery pack is running out of power?

  • This problem occurs when Windows does not allow a task to be suspended, depending on the running software or the connected external device.

Why does a message appear and Windows fail to start when I turn on my VAIO computer?

  • If another message on how to solve the problem appears after the first message, follow the on-screen instructions.

  • The BIOS boot options may have been incorrectly configured.

    Press the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is off to display the VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen, click Start BIOS setup, and change the Boot Mode setting, then restart the computer.

Why doesn’t my computer 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 Windows that turns off the computer screen or places your VAIO computer into Sleep mode after a certain period of inactivity. To solve this problem, exit the running software application(s) or change the current screen saver.

What should I do if my VAIO computer does not turn on or the power button does not work (the charge indicator light blinks fast)?

  • SVF143/SVF153

  • SVP112/SVP132

    • A battery error may have occurred.

      In this case, push and hold the battery off button for three to five seconds with a thin, straight object (such as a paper clip).

      If the problem persists, contact an authorized Sony service/support center and replace the battery pack with a new one specified by Sony.

Why does my VAIO computer automatically turn off?

  • When the battery pack is running out of power, your VAIO computer automatically enters Hibernate mode and eventually turns off.

    Connect the AC adapter to the computer or charge the battery pack.

What should I do if my VAIO computer does not enter Hibernate mode?

  • If the utility program, such as a printer utility program, is running, exit the program or temporarily disable it.

  • If you cannot select Hibernate mode, click Change advanced power settings and check if Allow hybrid sleep under Sleep is set to Off. If it is set to On, change it to Off. See Selecting a Power Plan to change the power plan settings.

  • Your VAIO computer may not enter Hibernate mode if you execute a task on the computer before the computer completely enters Hibernate mode.

What should I do if I cannot turn off my VAIO computer?

  • Follow any of these procedures to exit all running software and then turn off your VAIO computer again.

    • Click the close button in the window of the running software.

    • Press the Alt+F4 keys.

      If there is unsaved data, a message prompting you to save data appears. Click the button to save data.

      Press the Alt+F4 keys until the Shut Down Windows window appears, select Shut down from the drop-down list, and click OK.

  • If you have installed new software on your VAIO computer, check if the software is working properly, its data is normal, and you have operated it correctly.

  • Contact the software publisher or designated provider for technical support.

  • If you connect peripheral devices, such as a printer or a USB device, to your VAIO computer or connect the computer to your network, disconnect all peripheral devices or the computer’s network connection and then turn off the computer.

    While the computer is communicating with a peripheral device or the network, Windows does not allow you to turn off the computer. In addition, some peripheral device drivers for the peripheral devices do not support the feature to force the computer to shut down.

  • If the computer screen freezes, press the Ctrl+Alt+Delete keys and click(Shut down) in the lower right corner of the computer screen.

  • If your VAIO computer freezes with a message indicating the settings are being saved or the computer is shutting down displayed, follow these procedures in order.

    • Press the Enter key.

      Wait for a while.

    • If the problem persists, press the Ctrl+Alt+Delete keys.

      Wait for a while.

  • If you still cannot turn off your VAIO computer even after you follow all the above procedures in this topic, perform the following operations.

    Note that performing these operations may cause working data to become corrupted. Be sure to disconnect the computer from the network before performing the following operations.

    • Press the Ctrl+Alt+Delete keys and click(Shut down) in the lower right corner of the computer screen.

    • Press and hold down the(Power) button for more than four seconds.

    • Unplug the AC adapter and remove the battery pack from your VAIO computer.

What should I do if my VAIO computer does not turn on (the power indicator light does not turn on in green)?

  • Make sure all cables are securely connected to devices, such as between your VAIO computer and the AC adapter; the AC adapter and the power cord; and the power cord and an AC outlet. See Connecting a Power Source.

  • If you plug the power cord of your VAIO computer into a power strip with a switch, make sure the switch is turned on and the power cord of the power strip is securely plugged into an AC outlet.

  • If you do not turn off your VAIO computer through the normal procedure, the power controller may be suspended due to a program error.

    • SVF143/SVF153

      Disconnect all cables and peripheral devices, such as the power cord and the USB device, remove the battery pack, and wait about five minutes. Then, put them back in place and turn on the computer again.

    • SVP112/SVP132

      Disconnect all cables and peripheral devices, such as the power cord and the USB device, and push and hold the battery off button for three to five seconds with a thin, straight object (such as a paper clip).

      Wait about five minutes and then put all cables and devices back in place and turn on the computer again.

  • Before using your VAIO computer for the first time, you need to connect the computer to a power source with the AC adapter.

  • Check that you are using the supplied Sony AC adapter.

    For your safety, use only the genuine Sony rechargeable battery pack for SVF143/SVF153 and AC adapter, which are supplied by Sony for your VAIO computer.

  • For SVF143/SVF153, make sure the battery pack is installed properly.

  • The battery pack may have run out of power.

  • Make sure your VAIO computer is not in Hibernate mode by pressing the(Power) button on the computer.

    Note that if you press and hold down the(Power) button for more than four seconds, the computer will turn off.

  • If you bring your VAIO computer directly from a cold location to a warm one, or use it in a high humidity location, moisture may condense inside the computer.

    In such a case, allow at least one hour before turning on the computer.

    Do not use the computer in a high humidity location (a relative humidity of more than 80%), as it may cause the computer to malfunction.

What should I do if the VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen appears when I turn on my VAIO computer?

  • You may have pressed not the(Power) button but the ASSIST button.

    Close the VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen and check where the(Power) button is located on your VAIO computer.

What should I do if the power indicator light turns on in green when I press the power button but the screen remains blank?

  • Make sure the brightness and contrast controls are adjusted correctly.

  • An external display may be selected as the display output.

    Press the Fn+F7 keys several times to select your desired display output, and then press the Enter key.

  • If you are using an external display, make sure it is plugged into an AC outlet and is on. Make sure the brightness and contrast controls are adjusted correctly.

    Refer to the manual that came with your display for information on how to change the settings.

  • Press the Alt+F4 keys several times to close the application window.

    An application error may have occurred.

  • If you wait for a while and the computer screen remains blank, restart your VAIO computer by following the procedures below in order. Note that following these procedures may cause working data to become corrupted.

    • Disconnect all peripheral devices, such as a printer or a USB device, and your VAIO computer from the network, if any.

    • Press and hold down the(Power) button for more than four seconds and make sure the power indicator light is off. Then, turn on your VAIO computer again.

    • For SVF143/SVF153, if the problem persists, press and hold down the(Power) button for more than four seconds and make sure the power indicator light is off. Disconnect all cables connected to your VAIO computer, such as the AC adapter, remove the battery pack, and wait about five minutes. Then, put all cables, peripheral devices, and the battery pack back in place and turn on the computer again.

    • For SVP112/SVP132, if the problem persists, press and hold down the(Power) button for more than four seconds and make sure the power indicator light is off. Disconnect all cables connected to your VAIO computer, such as the AC adapter, and push and hold the battery off button for three to five seconds with a thin, straight object (such as a paper clip). Wait about five minutes and then put all cables back in place and turn on the computer again.

  • For SVF143/SVF153, if an extra memory module is not installed properly, your VAIO computer may not turn on.

    Use of memory modules not specified by Sony or improper installation of memory modules may cause the computer to fail to boot or to become unstable. In such a case, reinstall the memory module.

    If you use a memory module other than the Sony branded memory module, contact the sales dealer or the manufacturer of the memory module.

  • If you bring your VAIO computer directly from a cold location to a warm one, or use it in a high humidity location, moisture may condense inside the computer.

    In such a case, allow at least one hour before turning on the computer.

    Do not use the computer in a high humidity location (a relative humidity of more than 80%), as it may cause the computer to malfunction.

What should I do if my VAIO computer does not enter Sleep mode?

  • If the utility program, such as a printer utility program, is running, exit the program or temporarily disable it.

  • Depending on the type of your screen saver, your VAIO computer may not enter Sleep mode while the screen saver is activated.

  • Your VAIO computer may not enter Sleep mode if you execute a task on the computer before completely entering Sleep mode.

Why doesn't my VAIO computer enter Hibernate mode when the battery pack is running out of power?

  • This problem occurs when Windows does not allow a task to be suspended, depending on the running software or the connected external device.

Why can't I fully charge my battery pack?

  • The battery care function is enabled on the VAIO Control Center to extend the life of your battery pack. Check the settings on the VAIO Control Center.

  • If ambient temperature is outside the specified range or the power consumption of your VAIO computer is high when you charge the battery pack, the charge current may be reduced.

Why is my VAIO computer running slowly and the CPU clock frequency low while the computer is running on battery power?

  • While your VAIO computer is running on battery power, the CPU clock frequency is reduced for power conserving purposes, which causes the computer to run slowly. This is normal and does not indicate a malfunction.

What should I do if a message appears indicating that the battery pack is incompatible or has been incorrectly installed, after which my VAIO computer enters Hibernate mode? (Removable battery pack supplied models)

  • This problem could be due to the battery pack not being installed properly.

    To solve this problem, turn off your VAIO computer, remove the battery pack, and then reinstall it. To install or remove the battery pack, see Installing the Battery Pack (SVF143/SVF153) or Removing the Battery Pack (SVF143/SVF153).

  • If the problem persists, it is likely that the installed battery pack is not compatible with your VAIO computer or has failed. Turn off the computer, remove the battery pack, and then replace it with a new one specified by Sony.

What should I do if videos are not displayed smoothly?

  • It is recommended you disable your screen saver.

    If the screen saver is enabled, it may be activated during DVD playback and prevent the playback from running successfully. Some screen savers have been found to even change the display resolution and colors.

  • If you have set the display output to both the computer screen and an external display, change the display output to either of them.

  • If you have enabled Aero Themes for your desktop theme, change the current desktop theme.

    Refer to Windows Help and Support for information on how to change the theme.

  • Some videos may not be displayed smoothly depending on the type or bit rate of videos.

    Lowering the screen resolution may improve video playback performance. See Changing the Resolution (Size) of the Screen Image for more information.

  • If data access to a memory card is in progress, wait until the data access ends and then start playback again.

  • If you are playing a video stored on the memory card, copy it to the built-in storage device and then play the copied video.

  • If the cooling fan settings is configurable with VAIO Control Center, changing the setting may improve the performance. To start VAIO Control Center, see Customizing Your VAIO Computer.

What should I do if no image is displayed on my TV screen or external display connected to the HDMI output port?

How do I change the LCD brightness?

  • Press the Fn+F5 or Fn+F6 keys to adjust the LCD brightness of your VAIO computer. See Changing the LCD Brightness for more information.

  • To adjust the LCD brightness of the connected external display, such as a computer display or a TV, use the brightness control on the external display.

What should I do if no image is displayed on my external display or TV screen?

  • Press the Fn+F7 keys several times to select your desired display output, and then press the Enter key. See Selecting Display Modes for more information.

What should I do if videos are not displayed on the computer screen?

  • Your VAIO computer may not have sufficient video memory to display high resolution videos. In such a case, lower the resolution of the LCD screen. See Changing the Resolution (Size) of the Screen Image for more information.

  • If you have selected to use an external display using the Fn+F7 keys and the external display is disconnected from your VAIO computer, the computer screen may be unable to display the video.

    In such a case, stop video playback, press the Fn+F7 keys several times to select the computer screen as the display output, and then press the Enter key. Then, restart video playback.

What should I do if my computer screen goes blank?

  • Make sure your VAIO computer is on and not in a power saving mode. See Using Sleep Mode for more information.

  • Make sure your VAIO computer is securely plugged into an AC outlet and the power indicator light is on. See Connecting a Power Source for more information.

  • The computer screen may be off.

    Press any key on the keyboard.

  • The display output may be set to an external display.

    Press the Fn+F7 keys several times to select your desired display output, and then press the Enter key. See Selecting Display Modes for more information.

  • If your VAIO computer is running on battery power, make sure the battery pack is installed properly and is charged. See Charging the Battery Pack for more information. (Removable battery pack supplied models)

  • If you wait for a while and the computer screen remains blank, follow the procedures below:

    • Press and hold down the(Power) button for more than four seconds, check if the power indicator light is off, and then turn on your VAIO computer.

    • If the problem persists, press and hold down the(Power) button for more than four seconds and check if the power indicator light is off. Disconnect all cables and peripheral devices, such as the power cord and the USB device, remove the battery pack (removable battery pack supplied models), and wait about five minutes. Then, put them back in place and turn on your VAIO computer again.

What should I do if color gradients are not displayed correctly on my computer screen?

  • Depending on the model you purchased, your computer screen may not temporarily display smooth gradients when the computer screen pauses because of the power saving function.

    To avoid this, right-click on the desktop and select Graphics Properties to display the Intel graphics control panel, and then disable Panel Self-Refresh under Power. If you click On battery, the setting screen may appear.

    Note that the battery life becomes short if you disable this setting.

What should I do if I cannot see proper images on the computer screen?

  • Make sure the screen color setting is set to True Color (32 bit). Refer to Windows Help and Support for more information on how to change the setting.

What should I do if my computer screen flickers or fades to white? (Intel graphics accelerator installed models)

  • Depending on the model you purchased, the computer screen may flicker or fade to white when the power saving function is enabled and the computer screen switches.

    To avoid this, right-click on the desktop and select Graphics Properties to display the Intel graphics control panel, and then disable Display Power Saving Technology under Power. If you click On battery, the setting screen may appear.

    Note that the battery life becomes short if you disable this setting.

Why does the viewfinder show no images or poor-quality images? (Built-in camera equipped models)

  • Some camera software may not work correctly when another camera software is running. Exit the current software before starting another.

  • You may not be able to use another camera software that uses the built-in camera while using the gesture function.

  • The viewfinder may show some noise, for example horizontal streaks, when you are viewing a rapid-moving object. This is normal and does not indicate a malfunction.

  • If the problem persists, restart your VAIO computer.

What should I do if captured images contain dropped frames and audio interruptions? (Built-in camera equipped models)

  • The effect settings on your software application may cause dropped frames. Refer to the help file included with your software application for more information.

  • There may be more software applications running than your VAIO computer can handle. Exit the applications that you are not currently using.

  • This problem may occur while your VAIO computer is running on the power saving plan, which reduces the CPU performance. See Selecting a Power Plan to check the current power plan.

What should I do if captured images flicker? (Built-in camera equipped models)

  • This problem occurs when you use the built-in camera under fluorescent lights due to a mismatch between the lighting output frequency and the shutter speed.

    To reduce flicker noise, change the direction of your VAIO computer so that you can adjust the direction of the built-in camera. Some software applications offer adjustable parameters, such as brightness or power frequencies, to eliminate flicker noise.

Why does the LCD brightness automatically change? (SVP112/SVP132)

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 VAIO computer. During the video playback, some operations and/or functions may become unavailable, and sound interruptions, dropped frames, and playback failure may occur depending on the configuration of the computer.

What should I do if some items do not fit on the computer screen?

  • Check that the text size is set to 100%. If not, some items, for example a software menu, may not be displayed correctly, depending on the software you are using.

    Refer to Windows Help and Support for more information on how to change the text size.

What should I do if no image is displayed on my TV screen or external display connected to the HDMI output port?

What should I do if I cannot play a disc, or dropped frames and/or sound interruptions occur during playback? (Optical disc drive equipped models)

  • Exit all running software other than playback software.

  • Try using other playback software, such as DVD playback software.

  • Change your current desktop theme to Windows 7 Basic from Control Panel if you have enabled Aero Themes for the desktop theme.

  • To play DVD media with Content Protection for Recordable Media (CPRM), you need to install a CPRM pack for playback software on your VAIO computer.

  • To play copyright protected Blu-ray Disc media continually, you need to update the AACS key.

    Follow a message displayed on the computer screen to update the AACS key. You can update it through the Internet.

  • Uninstall playback or writing software installed on your VAIO computer after purchase.

    For instructions on how to uninstall the software, refer to the help file included with the software or Windows Help and Support.

Why can't I write data to a disc? (Optical disc drive equipped models)

Why does it take time to write data to DVD writable media? (Optical disc drive equipped models)

  • In disc-at-once mode, it may take about 20 to 40 minutes to complete the writing process after the progress bar reaches 100%. This is normal and does not indicate a malfunction, so wait until the process is complete.

    Because disc-at-once mode writes all the data to a disc at one time, the optical disc drive writes 1 GB of dummy data to a disc even when the actual data size is less than 1 GB to ensure playback compatibility.

    Some players can play only discs that are created in disc-at-once mode. When you play the created disc on a player other than your VAIO computer, make sure if the player supports disc writing mode you selected.

What should I do if I cannot remove the disc from the optical disc drive? (Optical disc drive equipped models)

  • The drive eject button may not work depending on your VAIO computer status.

    Exit all running software and press the drive eject button.

    If the problem persists, restart the computer and press the drive eject button again.

  • The drive eject button does not work while your VAIO computer is in a power saving mode.

    Resume the computer from a power saving mode and press the drive eject button.

    See About Power Saving Mode for more information on the power saving mode.

  • If the problem persists, insert a thin, straight object (such as a paper clip) into the manual eject hole on the optical disc drive.

What should I do if my microphone does not work?

  • Check if your microphone is selected as a recording device.

    Click Hardware and Sound in the Control Panel window, select the Recording tab in the Sound window, and check if there is a check mark on your desired microphone icon. If not, select the icon and click Set Default. If the icon is not displayed, make sure the microphone is properly connected to your VAIO computer.

  • If you are using an external microphone, use a plug-in power microphone. (Microphone jack equipped models)

  • An external microphone with a 3-pole mini plug does not work with the headset compatible headphone jack. (Headset compatible headphone jack equipped models)

  • The microphone of your headset may not work with your VAIO computer. Use a Sony smartphone compatible headset. (Headset compatible headphone jack equipped models)

What should I do if I do not hear sound from a digital audio device connected to the digital output port, such as the HDMI output port?

  • To output sound from a digital audio device connected to the digital output port on your VAIO computer, you need to change the sound output to the digital audio device. See Changing the Sound Output Device for more information.

What should I do if I do not hear sound from speakers or headphones?

What should I do if I hear microphone feedback from speakers when using my microphone?

  • Microphone feedback may occur when your microphone receives the sound from a sound output device, such as speakers.

    • Keep the microphone away from a sound output device.

    • Turn down the volume of the speakers and the microphone.

What should I do if sound interruptions occur during video or audio playback?

  • Sound interruptions may occur when the CPU load is high. In this case, reduce the CPU load by exiting all running software other than playback software, or by disabling unnecessary audio effects applied to playback.

What should I do if my microphone does not work?

  • Check if your microphone is selected as a recording device.

    Click Hardware and Sound in the Control Panel window, select the Recording tab in the Sound window, and check if there is a check mark on your desired microphone icon. If not, select the icon and click Set Default. If the icon is not displayed, make sure the microphone is properly connected to your VAIO computer.

  • If you are using an external microphone, use a plug-in power microphone. (Microphone jack equipped models)

  • An external microphone with a 3-pole mini plug does not work with the headset compatible headphone jack. (Headset compatible headphone jack equipped models)

  • The microphone of your headset may not work with your VAIO computer. Use a Sony smartphone compatible headset. (Headset compatible headphone jack equipped models)

What should I do if I hear microphone feedback from speakers when using my microphone?

  • Microphone feedback may occur when your microphone receives the sound from a sound output device, such as speakers.

    • Keep the microphone away from a sound output device.

    • Turn down the volume of the speakers and the microphone.

What should I do if I cannot enter numbers with the numeric keypad? (SVF143/SVF153)

  • Check if the Num lock indicator light is on.

    When the indicator light is off, press the Num Lk key, or Fn+Num Lk keys, to turn the Num Lock indicator light on. Then, enter numbers on the numeric keypad.

What should I do if my keyboard configuration is wrong?

  • The language layout of your keyboard is labeled on the packaging box. If you choose a different regional keyboard when you complete the Windows setup, the key configuration will be mismatched. To change the keyboard configuration, refer to Windows Help and Support.

What should I do if I cannot enter certain characters with my keyboard?

  • SVP112/SVP132

    • Check if the Caps Lock indicator light on the Caps Lock key is on or off.

      When the indicator light is on, characters typed will appear in uppercase (or lowercase if you also hold down the Shift key).

      Press the Caps Lock key to turn the Caps Lock indicator light on or off.

  • SVF143/SVF153

    • Check if the Num lock indicator light is on or off.

      When the indicator light is on, you can enter numbers.

      Press the Num Lk key, or Fn+Num Lk keys, to turn the Num Lock indicator light on or off.

    • Check if the Caps Lock indicator light is on or off.

      When the indicator light is on, characters typed will appear in uppercase (or lowercase if you also hold down the Shift key).

      Press the Caps Lock key to turn the Caps Lock indicator light on or off.

What should I do if my VAIO computer screen freezes?

  • Restart your VAIO computer.

    Press the Ctrl+Alt+Delete keys and click(arrow) and Restart.

    If the problem persists, press and hold down the(Power) button for more than four seconds, or slide the(Power) switch to the right for more than four seconds.

What should I do if the pointer does not move?

  • When the pointer does not move because your finger reached an edge of the touch pad, lift the finger off the touch pad and put it back on the center of the touch pad.

  • The pointer may not temporarily move against your intention depending on the software you are using.

    In such a case, wait for a while before moving the pointer again.

    If the pointer still does not move, press the Ctrl+Alt+Delete keys and click(Shut down) in the lower right corner of the computer screen to turn off your VAIO computer.

    If the problem persists, press and hold down the(Power) button or slide the(Power) switch to the right for more than four seconds.

    Turning off the computer with the Ctrl+Alt+Delete keys, the(Power) button, or the(Power) switch may cause loss of unsaved data.

  • The touch pad may be disabled. See Why can't I use the touch pad? for more information.

How do I avoid unintentional clicks caused by a light touch on the touch pad?

How do I disable the touch pad?

  • Press the Fn+F1 keys to disable the touch pad. See Enabling/Disabling the Touch Pad for more information.

    Alternatively, you can disable the touch pad in the VAIO Control Center window. Click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Control Center to display the window.

What should I do if my VAIO computer screen freezes?

  • Restart your VAIO computer.

    Press the Ctrl+Alt+Delete keys and click(arrow) and Restart.

    If the problem persists, press and hold down the(Power) button for more than four seconds, or slide the(Power) switch to the right for more than four seconds.

What should I do if the pointer does not move?

  • When the pointer does not move because your finger reached an edge of the touch pad, lift the finger off the touch pad and put it back on the center of the touch pad.

  • The pointer may not temporarily move against your intention depending on the software you are using.

    In such a case, wait for a while before moving the pointer again.

    If the pointer still does not move, press the Ctrl+Alt+Delete keys and click(Shut down) in the lower right corner of the computer screen to turn off your VAIO computer.

    If the problem persists, press and hold down the(Power) button or slide the(Power) switch to the right for more than four seconds.

    Turning off the computer with the Ctrl+Alt+Delete keys, the(Power) button, or the(Power) switch may cause loss of unsaved data.

  • The touch pad may be disabled. See Why can't I use the touch pad? for more information.

Why can't I use the touch pad?

  • The touch pad is disabled.

    • Press the Fn+F1 keys to enable the touch pad. See Enabling/Disabling the Touch Pad for more information.

      Alternatively, you can click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Control Center, and then enable the touch pad in the VAIO Control Center window.

    • Disconnect a mouse from your VAIO computer, if it is connected.

  • See Using the Touch Pad for information on how to use the touch pad.

Why does the viewfinder show no images or poor-quality images? (Built-in camera equipped models)

  • Some camera software may not work correctly when another camera software is running. Exit the current software before starting another.

  • You may not be able to use another camera software that uses the built-in camera while using the gesture function.

  • The viewfinder may show some noise, for example horizontal streaks, when you are viewing a rapid-moving object. This is normal and does not indicate a malfunction.

  • If the problem persists, restart your VAIO computer.

Why is the video input from the built-in camera suspended momentarily? (Built-in camera equipped models)

  • The video input may be suspended momentarily if:

    • A shortcut key with the Fn key is used.

    • The CPU load increases.

Why are captured images poor in quality? (Built-in camera equipped models)

  • Images captured under fluorescent light may contain light reflections.

  • A dark portion in captured images may contain noise.

  • The area on and around the built-in camera is soiled. Clean the area. See About the Built-in Camera (Built-in camera equipped models) for more information on how to clean the camera.

What should I do if captured images contain dropped frames and audio interruptions? (Built-in camera equipped models)

  • The effect settings on your software application may cause dropped frames. Refer to the help file included with your software application for more information.

  • There may be more software applications running than your VAIO computer can handle. Exit the applications that you are not currently using.

  • This problem may occur while your VAIO computer is running on the power saving plan, which reduces the CPU performance. See Selecting a Power Plan to check the current power plan.

What should I do if captured images flicker? (Built-in camera equipped models)

  • This problem occurs when you use the built-in camera under fluorescent lights due to a mismatch between the lighting output frequency and the shutter speed.

    To reduce flicker noise, change the direction of your VAIO computer so that you can adjust the direction of the built-in camera. Some software applications offer adjustable parameters, such as brightness or power frequencies, to eliminate flicker noise.

What should I do if the website is not displayed?

  • Depending on your Internet Service Provider (ISP), you may need to change the web browser settings.

    Refer to the manual provided from your ISP to check the web browser settings.

  • Make sure the URL in the address bar is correct.

How can I find the physical address (MAC address) of the built-in wireless network interface of my VAIO computer?

  • If MAC address filtering of your access point is enabled, register the MAC address of your VAIO computer in the setup screen of the access point. Otherwise, the computer cannot connect to the access point.

    Click(Start), All Programs, Accessories, Command Prompt, and then enter "ipconfig /all" and press the Enter key. You can find the physical address (MAC address) in the Physical Address field under Wireless LAN adapter Wireless Network Connection:. Enter the address in the setup screen of the access point.

What should I do if I cannot play back movies or audio tracks received via wireless LAN, or their playback is interrupted? Why is the data transfer speed slow?

  • Move your VAIO computer away from obstructions, or closer to any access point you may be using.

    Connection capability is affected by distance, obstructions, device configuration, radio wave strength/interference, wall materials, running software, etc.

  • If you are using an access point, the device may be temporarily overloaded depending on how many other devices are communicating via the access point.

    Wait for a while and try again.

  • Change the channel setting of your access point. By changing the channel, interference on your wireless network may be reduced and data transfer speed may improve.

    If access point channel interference occurs, data transfer speed may be reduced.

  • If your access point interferes with other access points, change the access point channel.

    Refer to the manual that came with your access point for more information.

  • Make sure that a microwave oven is not operating near your wireless LAN devices.

    The 2.4 GHz frequency band, on which the wireless LAN operates, is used by various devices and apparatus. If you use a microwave oven while communicating via wireless LAN, data transfer rate may slow down, communication range may narrow, or communication may be interrupted.

  • Make sure Maximum Performance is selected for Wireless Adapter Settings in the Power Options window. See What should I do if I cannot connect my VAIO computer to an access point (or the Internet)? for more information.

What should I do if I do not know the SSID or security key for the access point?

  • You can find the key in the setting screen of your access point.

    Refer to the manual that came with your access point for more information.

What should I do if I cannot connect my VAIO computer to an access point (or the Internet)?

  • See What should I do if I cannot use the wireless LAN function?.

  • Make sure power to the access point is on.

  • Check the access point settings.

    In the following settings, your VAIO computer may fail to connect to an access point, or the connection may be unstable.

    • When the access point is set to refuse communication with a device whose SSID is set to "ANY," and the SSID of your VAIO computer or the access point is set to "ANY."

    • When the access point is in stealth mode.

      For more information, refer to the manual that came with your access point, or consult your wireless LAN service provider.

  • Make sure your VAIO computer and access point are connected to one another. See Starting Wireless LAN Communications for more information.

  • Connection capability is affected by distance, obstructions, device configuration, radio wave strength/interference, wall materials, running software, etc.

    Move your VAIO computer away from obstructions or closer to any access point you may be using.

  • Check that your access point is displayed in the Currently connected to window.

    Click(Start), Control Panel, Network and Internet, Network and Sharing Center, and Connect to a network, and then check that your access point is displayed in the Currently connected to window.

  • Make sure the security key is correct.

    The security key is displayed as "•" for security reasons. See About a Security Key for a Wireless LAN, and then enter the security key once more.

  • Make sure that the wireless LAN function settings of your VAIO computer correspond with the settings of your access point. See Starting Wireless LAN Communications for more information.

  • Make sure your VAIO computer is properly configured for Internet access.

    If your antivirus software or firewall function of the Windows operating system imposes restrictions on Internet access, your VAIO computer may not connect to the Internet. Check the settings.

  • Make sure Maximum Performance is selected for Wireless Adapter Settings in the Power Options window.

    Click(Start), Control Panel, System and Security and Power Options. Click Change plan settings for the current power plan and Change advanced power settings. Select the Advanced settings tab and double-click Wireless Adapter Settings and Power Saving Mode, and then select Maximum Performance.

What should I do if I cannot find the VAIO Smart Network icon in the desktop notification area?

  • Click(arrow) in the desktop notification area to find(the VAIO Smart Network icon).

What should I do if I cannot use the wireless LAN function?

  • Make sure each switch next to Wireless Functions and Wireless LAN is toggled to On in the VAIO Smart Network window.

  • To use the wireless LAN function on your VAIO computer, you need to set up the function.

    Check the wireless LAN settings of the computer. See Starting Wireless LAN Communications for more information.

  • For SVP112/SVP132, make sure the wireless device is enabled in the BIOS setup screen.

    If Disabled is selected for the wireless device in the BIOS setup screen, you cannot use the wireless function. In such a case, change the BIOS setting. See Restricting the Use of Built-in Devices (SVP112/SVP132) for more information.

  • If connection utility software supplied with a third-party wireless LAN product is installed, uninstall it.

    If connection utility software is installed, Windows may fail to configure the wireless LAN settings. Be sure to take a note of your settings, (such as security keys) before uninstalling.

What should I do if the text size on the website is small or large?

  • Change the text size on your web browser.

    If you use Internet Explorer, click Page and Text Size, and then select your desired text size.

What should I do if the website is not displayed?

  • Depending on your Internet Service Provider (ISP), you may need to change the web browser settings.

    Refer to the manual provided from your ISP to check the web browser settings.

  • Make sure the URL in the address bar is correct.

How can I find the physical address (MAC address) of the built-in wireless network interface of my VAIO computer?

  • If MAC address filtering of your access point is enabled, register the MAC address of your VAIO computer in the setup screen of the access point. Otherwise, the computer cannot connect to the access point.

    Click(Start), All Programs, Accessories, Command Prompt, and then enter "ipconfig /all" and press the Enter key. You can find the physical address (MAC address) in the Physical Address field under Wireless LAN adapter Wireless Network Connection:. Enter the address in the setup screen of the access point.

What should I do if I cannot play back movies or audio tracks received via wireless LAN, or their playback is interrupted? Why is the data transfer speed slow?

  • Move your VAIO computer away from obstructions, or closer to any access point you may be using.

    Connection capability is affected by distance, obstructions, device configuration, radio wave strength/interference, wall materials, running software, etc.

  • If you are using an access point, the device may be temporarily overloaded depending on how many other devices are communicating via the access point.

    Wait for a while and try again.

  • Change the channel setting of your access point. By changing the channel, interference on your wireless network may be reduced and data transfer speed may improve.

    If access point channel interference occurs, data transfer speed may be reduced.

  • If your access point interferes with other access points, change the access point channel.

    Refer to the manual that came with your access point for more information.

  • Make sure that a microwave oven is not operating near your wireless LAN devices.

    The 2.4 GHz frequency band, on which the wireless LAN operates, is used by various devices and apparatus. If you use a microwave oven while communicating via wireless LAN, data transfer rate may slow down, communication range may narrow, or communication may be interrupted.

  • Make sure Maximum Performance is selected for Wireless Adapter Settings in the Power Options window. See What should I do if I cannot connect my VAIO computer to an access point (or the Internet)? for more information.

What should I do if I do not know the SSID or security key for the access point?

  • You can find the key in the setting screen of your access point.

    Refer to the manual that came with your access point for more information.

What should I do if I cannot connect my VAIO computer to an access point (or the Internet)?

  • See What should I do if I cannot use the wireless LAN function?.

  • Make sure power to the access point is on.

  • Check the access point settings.

    In the following settings, your VAIO computer may fail to connect to an access point, or the connection may be unstable.

    • When the access point is set to refuse communication with a device whose SSID is set to "ANY," and the SSID of your VAIO computer or the access point is set to "ANY."

    • When the access point is in stealth mode.

      For more information, refer to the manual that came with your access point, or consult your wireless LAN service provider.

  • Make sure your VAIO computer and access point are connected to one another. See Starting Wireless LAN Communications for more information.

  • Connection capability is affected by distance, obstructions, device configuration, radio wave strength/interference, wall materials, running software, etc.

    Move your VAIO computer away from obstructions or closer to any access point you may be using.

  • Check that your access point is displayed in the Currently connected to window.

    Click(Start), Control Panel, Network and Internet, Network and Sharing Center, and Connect to a network, and then check that your access point is displayed in the Currently connected to window.

  • Make sure the security key is correct.

    The security key is displayed as "•" for security reasons. See About a Security Key for a Wireless LAN, and then enter the security key once more.

  • Make sure that the wireless LAN function settings of your VAIO computer correspond with the settings of your access point. See Starting Wireless LAN Communications for more information.

  • Make sure your VAIO computer is properly configured for Internet access.

    If your antivirus software or firewall function of the Windows operating system imposes restrictions on Internet access, your VAIO computer may not connect to the Internet. Check the settings.

  • Make sure Maximum Performance is selected for Wireless Adapter Settings in the Power Options window.

    Click(Start), Control Panel, System and Security and Power Options. Click Change plan settings for the current power plan and Change advanced power settings. Select the Advanced settings tab and double-click Wireless Adapter Settings and Power Saving Mode, and then select Maximum Performance.

What should I do if I cannot find the VAIO Smart Network icon in the desktop notification area?

  • Click(arrow) in the desktop notification area to find(the VAIO Smart Network icon).

What should I do if I cannot use the wireless LAN function?

  • Make sure each switch next to Wireless Functions and Wireless LAN is toggled to On in the VAIO Smart Network window.

  • To use the wireless LAN function on your VAIO computer, you need to set up the function.

    Check the wireless LAN settings of the computer. See Starting Wireless LAN Communications for more information.

  • For SVP112/SVP132, make sure the wireless device is enabled in the BIOS setup screen.

    If Disabled is selected for the wireless device in the BIOS setup screen, you cannot use the wireless function. In such a case, change the BIOS setting. See Restricting the Use of Built-in Devices (SVP112/SVP132) for more information.

  • If connection utility software supplied with a third-party wireless LAN product is installed, uninstall it.

    If connection utility software is installed, Windows may fail to configure the wireless LAN settings. Be sure to take a note of your settings, (such as security keys) before uninstalling.

What should I do if the text size on the website is small or large?

  • Change the text size on your web browser.

    If you use Internet Explorer, click Page and Text Size, and then select your desired text size.

What should I do if I cannot find the BLUETOOTH(R) device I want to communicate with?

  • Shorten the distance between your VAIO computer and the BLUETOOTH device within 10 meters.

    If the computer is more than 10 meters away from the BLUETOOTH device, communication will not be possible.

    The computer may not be able to communicate with the BLUETOOTH device even within 10 meters due to obstacles between the devices, radio wave quality, ambient environment that includes existence of walls and materials of such walls, or software in use. In such a case, move the computer away from obstructions or closer to the device.

  • Check that the BLUETOOTH function of the device you want to communicate with is on, and the device is not in the power saving mode.

  • Check that the BLUETOOTH function of the device you want to communicate with is enabled.

    Refer to the manual that came with the device 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 not be able to communicate with your VAIO computer.

What should I do if other BLUETOOTH(R) devices cannot connect to my VAIO computer?

  • See What should I do if I cannot find the BLUETOOTH(R) device I want to communicate with?.

  • Make sure that the authentication (pairing) between the device and your VAIO computer has been properly performed.

    Some BLUETOOTH devices require authentication (pairing) before establishing connection with another device. Perform the authentication process before connecting to such devices.

  • Make sure that your VAIO computer allows BLUETOOTH devices to find the computer.

    Click(arrow) in the desktop notification area, right-click(the BLUETOOTH icon), and click Open Settings to open the settings window.

    Click the Options tab and make sure that the Allow Bluetooth devices to find this computer check box is selected.

Why is my BLUETOOTH(R) connection slow?

  • Data transfer speed depends on obstructions and/or the distance between the two devices, radio wave quality, and the device configuration or software in use.

    Move your VAIO computer and BLUETOOTH device closer to each other.

  • If a version of a BLUETOOTH standard employed on the BLUETOOTH device with which you want to communicate is not the same version as the one employed on your VAIO computer, the communication speed may become slower.

  • If your VAIO computer is compliant with BLUETOOTH high speed technology and the following two conditions are met, high-speed communications are available. However, some BLUETOOTH profiles do not support high-speed communications.

    • The BLUETOOTH device with which you want to communicate supports BLUETOOTH high speed technology.

    • Both the wireless LAN and BLUETOOTH functions on the computer are enabled.

Why can't I use the BLUETOOTH(R) function when I log onto my VAIO 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 VAIO computer.

    Log onto the computer as a user with administrative rights.

Why can't I use BLUETOOTH(R) devices when I switch users?

  • If you switch users without logging off your system, BLUETOOTH devices will not work.

    Be sure to log off before switching users.

What should I do if I cannot use the BLUETOOTH(R) function?

  • Click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Smart Network or click(the VAIO Smart Network icon) in the desktop notification area to open the VAIO Smart Network settings window.

    Click each switch next to Wireless Functions and BLUETOOTH to toggle it to On.

  • Check whether the BLUETOOTH function is enabled.

    Make sure the switch next to BLUETOOTH is toggled to On.

What should I do if the BLUETOOTH(R) icon is not displayed in the desktop notification area?

  • Make sure each switch next to Wireless Functions and BLUETOOTH is toggled to On in the VAIO Smart Network window.

  • Follow these steps to open the Bluetooth settings window and check the settings:

    Click(Start) and Devices and Printers. Right-click the BLUETOOTH device icon and click Bluetooth settings.

    Click the Options tab and select the Show the Bluetooth icon in the notification area check box.

What should I do if I forget the Windows password?

  • The Windows password is case-sensitive. Check your password and enter again.

  • Log on using a user account that has system administrator privileges to reset your password.

    • If you forget all passwords for system administrator accounts, you cannot reset any Windows passwords. You need to perform system recovery. See About Recovery for more information.

What should I do if the Enter Onetime Password message appears and Windows does not start after I enter a wrong power-on password three times consecutively?

  • Press and hold down the(Power) button for more than four seconds and check if the power indicator light is off. Then, restart your VAIO 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.

  • If you forget the power-on password, you cannot start your VAIO computer. See What should I do if I forget the power-on password to start my VAIO computer? for more information.

What should I do if I forget the power-on password to start my VAIO computer?

  • If you forget the password (Setting/Changing the Power-on Password), you cannot start your VAIO computer.

    • When you forget your user password:

      Enter the machine password to reset the user password at the BIOS setup screen.

    • When you forget your machine password:

      The password needs to be reset and a fee will be charged. To reset the password, contact an authorized Sony service/support center.

What should I do if I forget the power-on password to start my VAIO computer?

  • If you forget the password (Setting/Changing the Power-on Password), you cannot start your VAIO computer.

    • When you forget your user password:

      Enter the machine password to reset the user password at the BIOS setup screen.

    • When you forget your machine password:

      The password needs to be reset and a fee will be charged. To reset the password, contact an authorized Sony service/support center.

What should I do if I cannot charge the device connected to the USB port that supports USB charging?

Why can't I write data to an SD memory card? (SVP112/SVP132)

  • You cannot use SD memory cards if Disabled is selected for the SD memory card slot in the BIOS setup screen.

    In such a case, change the BIOS setting. See Restricting the Use of Built-in Devices (SVP112/SVP132) for more information.

  • You cannot use SD memory cards if you disable the power supply to the slot on the VAIO Power Management tab in the Power Options window. For how to open the Power Options window, refer to Windows Help and Support.

Why can't I write data to a memory card?

  • Some types of memory cards are equipped with an erasure prevention switch to protect data from unintentional erasure or overwriting. Make sure the erasure prevention switch is off.

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 VAIO computer. During the video playback, some operations and/or functions may become unavailable, and sound interruptions, dropped frames, and playback failure may occur depending on the configuration of the computer.

Why does the System Properties window display a slower CPU speed than the maximum?

  • This is normal. Because your VAIO computer's CPU utilizes a type of CPU speed controlling technology for power conservation purposes, the System Properties window may display the current CPU speed instead of the maximum speed.

Why is my VAIO computer running slowly and the CPU clock frequency low while the computer is running on battery power?

  • While your VAIO computer is running on battery power, the CPU clock frequency is reduced for power conserving purposes, which causes the computer to run slowly. This is normal and does not indicate a malfunction.

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 VAIO computer. During the video playback, some operations and/or functions may become unavailable, and sound interruptions, dropped frames, and playback failure may occur depending on the configuration of the computer.

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 VAIO computer. During the video playback, some operations and/or functions may become unavailable, and sound interruptions, dropped frames, and playback failure may occur depending on the configuration of the computer.

What should I do if my game software does not work or it keeps crashing?

  • Check the website of the game if there are any patches or updates to download.

  • Make sure you have installed the latest video driver software.

  • On some VAIO computer models, the graphics memory is shared with the system. The optimal graphics performance in such a case is not guaranteed.

What should I do if the website is not displayed?

  • Depending on your Internet Service Provider (ISP), you may need to change the web browser settings.

    Refer to the manual provided from your ISP to check the web browser settings.

  • Make sure the URL in the address bar is correct.

How can I find the physical address (MAC address) of the built-in wireless network interface of my VAIO computer?

  • If MAC address filtering of your access point is enabled, register the MAC address of your VAIO computer in the setup screen of the access point. Otherwise, the computer cannot connect to the access point.

    Click(Start), All Programs, Accessories, Command Prompt, and then enter "ipconfig /all" and press the Enter key. You can find the physical address (MAC address) in the Physical Address field under Wireless LAN adapter Wireless Network Connection:. Enter the address in the setup screen of the access point.

What should I do if I cannot play back movies or audio tracks received via wireless LAN, or their playback is interrupted? Why is the data transfer speed slow?

  • Move your VAIO computer away from obstructions, or closer to any access point you may be using.

    Connection capability is affected by distance, obstructions, device configuration, radio wave strength/interference, wall materials, running software, etc.

  • If you are using an access point, the device may be temporarily overloaded depending on how many other devices are communicating via the access point.

    Wait for a while and try again.

  • Change the channel setting of your access point. By changing the channel, interference on your wireless network may be reduced and data transfer speed may improve.

    If access point channel interference occurs, data transfer speed may be reduced.

  • If your access point interferes with other access points, change the access point channel.

    Refer to the manual that came with your access point for more information.

  • Make sure that a microwave oven is not operating near your wireless LAN devices.

    The 2.4 GHz frequency band, on which the wireless LAN operates, is used by various devices and apparatus. If you use a microwave oven while communicating via wireless LAN, data transfer rate may slow down, communication range may narrow, or communication may be interrupted.

  • Make sure Maximum Performance is selected for Wireless Adapter Settings in the Power Options window. See What should I do if I cannot connect my VAIO computer to an access point (or the Internet)? for more information.

What should I do if I do not know the SSID or security key for the access point?

  • You can find the key in the setting screen of your access point.

    Refer to the manual that came with your access point for more information.

What should I do if I cannot connect my VAIO computer to an access point (or the Internet)?

  • See What should I do if I cannot use the wireless LAN function?.

  • Make sure power to the access point is on.

  • Check the access point settings.

    In the following settings, your VAIO computer may fail to connect to an access point, or the connection may be unstable.

    • When the access point is set to refuse communication with a device whose SSID is set to "ANY," and the SSID of your VAIO computer or the access point is set to "ANY."

    • When the access point is in stealth mode.

      For more information, refer to the manual that came with your access point, or consult your wireless LAN service provider.

  • Make sure your VAIO computer and access point are connected to one another. See Starting Wireless LAN Communications for more information.

  • Connection capability is affected by distance, obstructions, device configuration, radio wave strength/interference, wall materials, running software, etc.

    Move your VAIO computer away from obstructions or closer to any access point you may be using.

  • Check that your access point is displayed in the Currently connected to window.

    Click(Start), Control Panel, Network and Internet, Network and Sharing Center, and Connect to a network, and then check that your access point is displayed in the Currently connected to window.

  • Make sure the security key is correct.

    The security key is displayed as "•" for security reasons. See About a Security Key for a Wireless LAN, and then enter the security key once more.

  • Make sure that the wireless LAN function settings of your VAIO computer correspond with the settings of your access point. See Starting Wireless LAN Communications for more information.

  • Make sure your VAIO computer is properly configured for Internet access.

    If your antivirus software or firewall function of the Windows operating system imposes restrictions on Internet access, your VAIO computer may not connect to the Internet. Check the settings.

  • Make sure Maximum Performance is selected for Wireless Adapter Settings in the Power Options window.

    Click(Start), Control Panel, System and Security and Power Options. Click Change plan settings for the current power plan and Change advanced power settings. Select the Advanced settings tab and double-click Wireless Adapter Settings and Power Saving Mode, and then select Maximum Performance.

What should I do if I cannot find the VAIO Smart Network icon in the desktop notification area?

  • Click(arrow) in the desktop notification area to find(the VAIO Smart Network icon).

What should I do if I cannot use the wireless LAN function?

  • Make sure each switch next to Wireless Functions and Wireless LAN is toggled to On in the VAIO Smart Network window.

  • To use the wireless LAN function on your VAIO computer, you need to set up the function.

    Check the wireless LAN settings of the computer. See Starting Wireless LAN Communications for more information.

  • For SVP112/SVP132, make sure the wireless device is enabled in the BIOS setup screen.

    If Disabled is selected for the wireless device in the BIOS setup screen, you cannot use the wireless function. In such a case, change the BIOS setting. See Restricting the Use of Built-in Devices (SVP112/SVP132) for more information.

  • If connection utility software supplied with a third-party wireless LAN product is installed, uninstall it.

    If connection utility software is installed, Windows may fail to configure the wireless LAN settings. Be sure to take a note of your settings, (such as security keys) before uninstalling.

What should I do if the text size on the website is small or large?

  • Change the text size on your web browser.

    If you use Internet Explorer, click Page and Text Size, and then select your desired text size.

What should I do if the website is not displayed?

  • Depending on your Internet Service Provider (ISP), you may need to change the web browser settings.

    Refer to the manual provided from your ISP to check the web browser settings.

  • Make sure the URL in the address bar is correct.

How can I find the physical address (MAC address) of the built-in wireless network interface of my VAIO computer?

  • If MAC address filtering of your access point is enabled, register the MAC address of your VAIO computer in the setup screen of the access point. Otherwise, the computer cannot connect to the access point.

    Click(Start), All Programs, Accessories, Command Prompt, and then enter "ipconfig /all" and press the Enter key. You can find the physical address (MAC address) in the Physical Address field under Wireless LAN adapter Wireless Network Connection:. Enter the address in the setup screen of the access point.

What should I do if I cannot play back movies or audio tracks received via wireless LAN, or their playback is interrupted? Why is the data transfer speed slow?

  • Move your VAIO computer away from obstructions, or closer to any access point you may be using.

    Connection capability is affected by distance, obstructions, device configuration, radio wave strength/interference, wall materials, running software, etc.

  • If you are using an access point, the device may be temporarily overloaded depending on how many other devices are communicating via the access point.

    Wait for a while and try again.

  • Change the channel setting of your access point. By changing the channel, interference on your wireless network may be reduced and data transfer speed may improve.

    If access point channel interference occurs, data transfer speed may be reduced.

  • If your access point interferes with other access points, change the access point channel.

    Refer to the manual that came with your access point for more information.

  • Make sure that a microwave oven is not operating near your wireless LAN devices.

    The 2.4 GHz frequency band, on which the wireless LAN operates, is used by various devices and apparatus. If you use a microwave oven while communicating via wireless LAN, data transfer rate may slow down, communication range may narrow, or communication may be interrupted.

  • Make sure Maximum Performance is selected for Wireless Adapter Settings in the Power Options window. See What should I do if I cannot connect my VAIO computer to an access point (or the Internet)? for more information.

What should I do if I do not know the SSID or security key for the access point?

  • You can find the key in the setting screen of your access point.

    Refer to the manual that came with your access point for more information.

What should I do if I cannot connect my VAIO computer to an access point (or the Internet)?

  • See What should I do if I cannot use the wireless LAN function?.

  • Make sure power to the access point is on.

  • Check the access point settings.

    In the following settings, your VAIO computer may fail to connect to an access point, or the connection may be unstable.

    • When the access point is set to refuse communication with a device whose SSID is set to "ANY," and the SSID of your VAIO computer or the access point is set to "ANY."

    • When the access point is in stealth mode.

      For more information, refer to the manual that came with your access point, or consult your wireless LAN service provider.

  • Make sure your VAIO computer and access point are connected to one another. See Starting Wireless LAN Communications for more information.

  • Connection capability is affected by distance, obstructions, device configuration, radio wave strength/interference, wall materials, running software, etc.

    Move your VAIO computer away from obstructions or closer to any access point you may be using.

  • Check that your access point is displayed in the Currently connected to window.

    Click(Start), Control Panel, Network and Internet, Network and Sharing Center, and Connect to a network, and then check that your access point is displayed in the Currently connected to window.

  • Make sure the security key is correct.

    The security key is displayed as "•" for security reasons. See About a Security Key for a Wireless LAN, and then enter the security key once more.

  • Make sure that the wireless LAN function settings of your VAIO computer correspond with the settings of your access point. See Starting Wireless LAN Communications for more information.

  • Make sure your VAIO computer is properly configured for Internet access.

    If your antivirus software or firewall function of the Windows operating system imposes restrictions on Internet access, your VAIO computer may not connect to the Internet. Check the settings.

  • Make sure Maximum Performance is selected for Wireless Adapter Settings in the Power Options window.

    Click(Start), Control Panel, System and Security and Power Options. Click Change plan settings for the current power plan and Change advanced power settings. Select the Advanced settings tab and double-click Wireless Adapter Settings and Power Saving Mode, and then select Maximum Performance.

What should I do if I cannot find the VAIO Smart Network icon in the desktop notification area?

  • Click(arrow) in the desktop notification area to find(the VAIO Smart Network icon).

What should I do if I cannot use the wireless LAN function?

  • Make sure each switch next to Wireless Functions and Wireless LAN is toggled to On in the VAIO Smart Network window.

  • To use the wireless LAN function on your VAIO computer, you need to set up the function.

    Check the wireless LAN settings of the computer. See Starting Wireless LAN Communications for more information.

  • For SVP112/SVP132, make sure the wireless device is enabled in the BIOS setup screen.

    If Disabled is selected for the wireless device in the BIOS setup screen, you cannot use the wireless function. In such a case, change the BIOS setting. See Restricting the Use of Built-in Devices (SVP112/SVP132) for more information.

  • If connection utility software supplied with a third-party wireless LAN product is installed, uninstall it.

    If connection utility software is installed, Windows may fail to configure the wireless LAN settings. Be sure to take a note of your settings, (such as security keys) before uninstalling.

What should I do if the text size on the website is small or large?

  • Change the text size on your web browser.

    If you use Internet Explorer, click Page and Text Size, and then select your desired text size.

What should I do if I cannot find the BLUETOOTH(R) device I want to communicate with?

  • Shorten the distance between your VAIO computer and the BLUETOOTH device within 10 meters.

    If the computer is more than 10 meters away from the BLUETOOTH device, communication will not be possible.

    The computer may not be able to communicate with the BLUETOOTH device even within 10 meters due to obstacles between the devices, radio wave quality, ambient environment that includes existence of walls and materials of such walls, or software in use. In such a case, move the computer away from obstructions or closer to the device.

  • Check that the BLUETOOTH function of the device you want to communicate with is on, and the device is not in the power saving mode.

  • Check that the BLUETOOTH function of the device you want to communicate with is enabled.

    Refer to the manual that came with the device 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 not be able to communicate with your VAIO computer.

What should I do if other BLUETOOTH(R) devices cannot connect to my VAIO computer?

  • See What should I do if I cannot find the BLUETOOTH(R) device I want to communicate with?.

  • Make sure that the authentication (pairing) between the device and your VAIO computer has been properly performed.

    Some BLUETOOTH devices require authentication (pairing) before establishing connection with another device. Perform the authentication process before connecting to such devices.

  • Make sure that your VAIO computer allows BLUETOOTH devices to find the computer.

    Click(arrow) in the desktop notification area, right-click(the BLUETOOTH icon), and click Open Settings to open the settings window.

    Click the Options tab and make sure that the Allow Bluetooth devices to find this computer check box is selected.

Why is my BLUETOOTH(R) connection slow?

  • Data transfer speed depends on obstructions and/or the distance between the two devices, radio wave quality, and the device configuration or software in use.

    Move your VAIO computer and BLUETOOTH device closer to each other.

  • If a version of a BLUETOOTH standard employed on the BLUETOOTH device with which you want to communicate is not the same version as the one employed on your VAIO computer, the communication speed may become slower.

  • If your VAIO computer is compliant with BLUETOOTH high speed technology and the following two conditions are met, high-speed communications are available. However, some BLUETOOTH profiles do not support high-speed communications.

    • The BLUETOOTH device with which you want to communicate supports BLUETOOTH high speed technology.

    • Both the wireless LAN and BLUETOOTH functions on the computer are enabled.

Why can't I use the BLUETOOTH(R) function when I log onto my VAIO 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 VAIO computer.

    Log onto the computer as a user with administrative rights.

Why can't I use BLUETOOTH(R) devices when I switch users?

  • If you switch users without logging off your system, BLUETOOTH devices will not work.

    Be sure to log off before switching users.

What should I do if I cannot use the BLUETOOTH(R) function?

  • Click(Start), All Programs, and VAIO Smart Network or click(the VAIO Smart Network icon) in the desktop notification area to open the VAIO Smart Network settings window.

    Click each switch next to Wireless Functions and BLUETOOTH to toggle it to On.

  • Check whether the BLUETOOTH function is enabled.

    Make sure the switch next to BLUETOOTH is toggled to On.

What should I do if the BLUETOOTH(R) icon is not displayed in the desktop notification area?

  • Make sure each switch next to Wireless Functions and BLUETOOTH is toggled to On in the VAIO Smart Network window.

  • Follow these steps to open the Bluetooth settings window and check the settings:

    Click(Start) and Devices and Printers. Right-click the BLUETOOTH device icon and click Bluetooth settings.

    Click the Options tab and select the Show the Bluetooth icon in the notification area check box.

What should I do if I cannot create Recovery Media?

  • Try the suggestions below:

    • Download and install the latest updates using VAIO Update. See Using VAIO Update for more information.

    • Restart your VAIO computer. And then, try to create Recovery Media again.

    • If an AC adapter is supplied with an external optical disc drive, plug the AC adapter into a power source.

  • Try other reliable media.

  • If the problem persists, visit the VAIO online support website for further assistance.

What should I do if my VAIO computer becomes unstable (Windows does not start)?

  • Try the suggestions below:

  • Use VAIO Hardware Diagnostics to identify problems on your VAIO computer.

    • With the software, you can check if the computer hardware (a CPU, a memory module, and a built-in storage device) needs to be replaced.

      To start VAIO Hardware Diagnostics, click Tools and VAIO Hardware Diagnostics in VAIO Care Rescue.

  • Follow the instructions in Recovering from the Recovery Area to recover your VAIO computer.

    • If you have not backed up your data, be sure to make a backup copy of your valuable data using VAIO Care Rescue before recovering your VAIO computer. See Backing Up Your Data when You cannot Start Windows for more information.

      If you have a backup created with the Windows backup feature before your VAIO computer becomes unstable, but you have created or changed the file after that, back up such a file with VAIO Care Rescue.

    Note

    • Recovering your VAIO computer will delete all the data on the built-in storage device.

What should I do if I cannot complete the recovery process?

  • Disconnect all unnecessary external devices from your VAIO computer.

  • Try the suggestions below:

    • Check the condition of Recovery Media. If you are using optical discs, check the discs for dirt or damage. If the discs are not clean, clean them and try recovering your VAIO computer again.

    • If you cannot recover your VAIO computer from the recovery area, restart the computer and recover the computer from the recovery area again, or use Recovery Media.

    • If you cannot recover your VAIO computer using a USB optical drive or USB flash drive, connect the drive to another USB port on the computer, then turn off the computer and try recovering it again.

    • Press the ASSIST button while your VAIO computer is off, click Start BIOS setup in the VAIO Care (Rescue Mode) screen, and make sure Boot Mode is set to Legacy.

  • If the problem persists, visit the VAIO online support website for further assistance.

How can I restore my VAIO computer system to its factory default settings?

How can I reinstall the original software and drivers?

  • You can restore the preinstalled software and drivers using VAIO Care. To restore them, start VAIO Care (Keeping Your VAIO Computer in Optimum Condition (VAIO Care)) and then click Advanced Tools, Restore and recovery, and Reinstall Applications and Drivers.

    Refer to the help file included with VAIO Care for more information.

How do I create Recovery Media?

What should I do if I cannot recover my VAIO computer from the recovery area?

  • Recover your VAIO computer from Recovery Media if you have used software to modify the recovery area, installed a different operating system from the preinstalled one, or formatted the built-in storage device without using VAIO Care Rescue.

  • If the problem persists, visit the VAIO online support website for further assistance.

What should I do if my VAIO computer becomes unstable (Windows starts)?

  • Try the suggestions below:

  • If the problem persists, follow the instructions in Recovering from the Recovery Area to recover your VAIO computer.

    • If you have not yet created Recovery Media, create the Recovery Media. See Creating Recovery Media.

    • Be sure to make a backup copy of your valuable data before recovering your VAIO computer. Refer to Windows Help and Support for more information.

      Note

      • Recovering your VAIO computer will delete all the data on the built-in storage device.

What should I do if I forget the Windows password?

  • The Windows password is case-sensitive. Check your password and enter again.

  • Log on using a user account that has system administrator privileges to reset your password.

    • If you forget all passwords for system administrator accounts, you cannot reset any Windows passwords. You need to perform system recovery. See About Recovery for more information.

What should I do if the Enter Onetime Password message appears and Windows does not start after I enter a wrong power-on password three times consecutively?

  • Press and hold down the(Power) button for more than four seconds and check if the power indicator light is off. Then, restart your VAIO 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.

  • If you forget the power-on password, you cannot start your VAIO computer. See What should I do if I forget the power-on password to start my VAIO computer? for more information.

What should I do if I forget the power-on password to start my VAIO computer?

  • If you forget the password (Setting/Changing the Power-on Password), you cannot start your VAIO computer.

    • When you forget your user password:

      Enter the machine password to reset the user password at the BIOS setup screen.

    • When you forget your machine password:

      The password needs to be reset and a fee will be charged. To reset the password, contact an authorized Sony service/support center.

What should I do if I forget the power-on password to start my VAIO computer?

  • If you forget the password (Setting/Changing the Power-on Password), you cannot start your VAIO computer.

    • When you forget your user password:

      Enter the machine password to reset the user password at the BIOS setup screen.

    • When you forget your machine password:

      The password needs to be reset and a fee will be charged. To reset the password, contact an authorized Sony service/support center.

What should I do if I cannot print a document?

  • Make sure the printer settings are correctly configured.

    For information on the printer settings, refer to the manual that came with your printer.

  • Make sure your printer is on.

    Refer to the manual that came with your printer for more information.

  • Make sure the connections between the printer's power cord and AC adapter and between the AC adapter and an AC outlet are securely made.

  • Make sure the appropriate printer driver is installed.

    When you connect a new printer, you first need to set up the printer driver. For information on how to set up the printer driver, refer to the manual that came with your printer, or visit the website of the manufacturer.

  • Make sure the status of your printer is displayed as online or ready.

    Then, make sure the printer settings are correctly configured as instructed in the manual that came with the printer.

  • Make sure your printer is set to Set as Default Printer.

    Refer to Windows Help and Support for more information.

  • Make sure your printer is compatible with Windows installed on your VAIO computer.

  • Make sure your printer is connected to your network (LAN).

    If the printer is directly connected to the network (LAN), make sure a router or a hub is on.

    If the printer is connected to a printer server, make sure an error message is not displayed on the printer server.

  • Make sure your software is working properly.

    The software may not support your document format. In such a case, your document will not be printed properly.

    Contact the software publisher or the manufacturer of your printer.

  • Make sure the correct printer port for your printer is selected.

    For more information on the printer port settings, refer to the manual that came with the printer, or contact the manufacturer.

What should I do if my VAIO computer does not recognize the USB device?

  • Check if the USB device is on and using its own power supply.

    • If you are using a digital camera, check if the battery is charged.

    • If you are using a printer, check if the power cable is connected properly to an AC outlet.

  • You may need to install a USB driver for the USB device before connecting the device. Refer to the manual that came with the USB device for more information.

  • Try using another USB port on your VAIO computer. The USB driver could be installed to the specific port you used the first time you connected the device.

  • USB hubs may prevent the USB device from working because of a power distribution failure. We recommend you connect the device directly to your VAIO computer without a hub.

  • For SVP112/SVP132, check if a USB storage device is available.

    The USB ports are disabled if Disabled is selected for the USB ports in the BIOS setup screen. In such a case, change the BIOS setting. See Restricting the Use of Built-in Devices (SVP112/SVP132) for more information.

What should I do if I cannot print a document?

  • Make sure the printer settings are correctly configured.

    For information on the printer settings, refer to the manual that came with your printer.

  • Make sure your printer is on.

    Refer to the manual that came with your printer for more information.

  • Make sure the connections between the printer's power cord and AC adapter and between the AC adapter and an AC outlet are securely made.

  • Make sure the appropriate printer driver is installed.

    When you connect a new printer, you first need to set up the printer driver. For information on how to set up the printer driver, refer to the manual that came with your printer, or visit the website of the manufacturer.

  • Make sure the status of your printer is displayed as online or ready.

    Then, make sure the printer settings are correctly configured as instructed in the manual that came with the printer.

  • Make sure your printer is set to Set as Default Printer.

    Refer to Windows Help and Support for more information.

  • Make sure your printer is compatible with Windows installed on your VAIO computer.

  • Make sure your printer is connected to your network (LAN).

    If the printer is directly connected to the network (LAN), make sure a router or a hub is on.

    If the printer is connected to a printer server, make sure an error message is not displayed on the printer server.

  • Make sure your software is working properly.

    The software may not support your document format. In such a case, your document will not be printed properly.

    Contact the software publisher or the manufacturer of your printer.

  • Make sure the correct printer port for your printer is selected.

    For more information on the printer port settings, refer to the manual that came with the printer, or contact the manufacturer.

What should I do if my VAIO computer does not recognize the USB device?

  • Check if the USB device is on and using its own power supply.

    • If you are using a digital camera, check if the battery is charged.

    • If you are using a printer, check if the power cable is connected properly to an AC outlet.

  • You may need to install a USB driver for the USB device before connecting the device. Refer to the manual that came with the USB device for more information.

  • Try using another USB port on your VAIO computer. The USB driver could be installed to the specific port you used the first time you connected the device.

  • USB hubs may prevent the USB device from working because of a power distribution failure. We recommend you connect the device directly to your VAIO computer without a hub.

  • For SVP112/SVP132, check if a USB storage device is available.

    The USB ports are disabled if Disabled is selected for the USB ports in the BIOS setup screen. In such a case, change the BIOS setting. See Restricting the Use of Built-in Devices (SVP112/SVP132) for more information.