Sony VAIO PCV-LX2 User manual

N
Sony VAIO Desktop User
Guide
PCV-LX2

Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide
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Notice
© 2002 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.
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.
Trademarks
Sony, DVgate, i.LINK™ and the i.LINK™ logo, ImageStation, PictureGear, Memory Stick™ and the Memory Stick™ logo, VAIO and the
VAIO logo are trademarks of Sony Corporation.
i.LINK™ is a trademark of Sony used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE 1394-1995 connection.
Microsoft®, Windows®and the Windows®logo, Windows®Media and Outlook®are trademarks or registered trademarks of U.S.
Microsoft®Corporation in the U.S. and other countries.
Adobe®, Adobe®Acrobat®Reader, Adobe®Premiere®, Adobe®Photoshop®Elements, Adobe®GoLive®, and Adobe®LiveMotion®
are trademarks of Adobe Systems Incorporated.
QuickTime and the QuickTime logo are trademarks used under license. QuickTime is registered in the U.S. and other countries.
RealPlayer®is a trademark or registered trademark of RealNetworks, inc. in the U.S. and other countries.
Norton Antivirus is a trademark of Symantec.

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All other names of systems, products and services are trademarks of their respective owners. In the manual, the ™or ®marks are not
specified.
Specifications are subject to change without notice.
ENERGY STAR®
As an ENERGY STAR®Partner, Sony has determined that this product meets the ENERGY STAR®guidelines for energy efficiency.
The International ENERGY STAR®Office Equipment Program is an international program that promotes energy saving through the use
of computers and their office equipment. The program backs the development and dissemination of products with functions that
effectively reduce energy consumption. It is an open system in which business proprietors can participate voluntarily. The targeted
products are office equipment such as computers, displays, printers, facsimiles and copiers. Their standards and logos are uniform
among participating nations.
ENERGY STAR is a U.S. registered mark.
Environmental information
Halogenated flame retardant is not used in cabinets
Cushions formed by corrugated board are used in packaging

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Safety information
Owner's record
The model number and serial number are located on the back panel of your Sony VAIO desktop. Record the serial number in the space
provided here. Refer to the model and serial number when you call VAIO-Link.
Serial number: ________________________
Model number: PCV-LX2
Warnings
General
 Opening the unit, for whatever reason, could lead to damages that are not covered by the guarantee.
 To avoid electrical shock, do not open the cabinet. Refer servicing to qualified personnel only.
 To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose your VAIO desktop to rain or moisture.
 If reporting a gas leak, do not use the modem or a telephone in the vicinity of the leak.
 Avoid using the modem during a severe electrical storm.
 The power socket outlet you are using must be installed near the equipment and must be easily accessible.
 The magnetic properties of some objects can have serious consequences for your hard disk drive. They can
erase the data on the hard disk drive and cause the computer to malfunction. Do not place your computer
near or on any objects, which emit magnetic fields, mainly:
 TV sets
 Speakers
 Magnets
 Magnetic bracelets.

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Audio/video
 Audio and picture distortion may occur if this equipment is positioned in close proximity to any
equipment emitting electromagnetic radiation.
Connectivity
 Never install modem or telephone wiring during a severe lightning storm.
 Never install telephone jacks in wet locations unless the jack is specifically designed for wet locations.
 Be cautious when installing or modifying telephone lines.
 To disconnect your VAIO desktop completely from the mains voltage, unplug the power cable.
 Make sure that the socket outlet is easily accessible.
Optical disc
The use of optical instruments can cause eye hazard. As the laser beam used in this product is harmful to the
eyes, do not attempt any disassembling process. For servicing, refer to qualified personnel only.
There is visible and invisible radiation when the optical disc drive is open: avoid direct exposure to the laser beam. The optical disc drive
is classified as a CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT and complies with the Laser Product Safety Standard EN 60825-1. Repair and maintenance
only by authorized Sony technicians. Improper repairs and use can create safety hazards.
CLASS 1
LASER PRODUCT
TO EN 60825-1

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Regulatory information
Sony hereby declares that this product is in compliance with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of the European
Directive 1999/5/EC.
This product complies with EN 55022 Class B and EN 55024 for use in the following areas: residential, commercial and light-industrial.
This product has been tested and found compliant with the limits set out in the EMC Directive for using connection cables not longer
than 3 metres (9.8 feet).
Disposing of batteries
Your Sony VAIO desktop is equipped with an internal back-up memory battery that should not have to be
replaced during the lifetime of the product. If you want to replace the battery, please contact VAIO-Link:
http://www.vaio-link.com
 Keep away from children.
 Dispose of the battery properly at its end-of-life.
In some areas the disposal of non-hazardous batteries in household or business waste may be prohibited.
Please use the public collection system.

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Welcome
Congratulations on purchasing a Sony VAIO desktop. Sony has combined leading-edge technology in audio,
video, computing and communications to provide you with state-of-the-art personal computing.
Here are the main features you will be able to enjoy:
 Exceptional performance - Your PC includes an Intel®processor, a Fast Ethernet interface, an internal
modem and a fast CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive.
 Sony audio and video quality - A high-resolution LCD screen with built-in stereo speakers enables you
to take advantage of today’s advanced multimedia applications, games, and entertainment software.
 Multimedia LCD display - Select the perfect viewing angle: With its unique dual-hinge pedestal, the
15”display provides twice the flexibility of other screens.
 Sony Memory Stick™media slot –The next generation in digital storage allows you to easily transfer
images, sounds, data and text between cameras, computers, and more.
 VAIO convertible keyboard - Featuring power-on capabilities and programmable power keys to
launch your favourite applications within seconds. The palm rest converts to a sleek keyboard cover to
protect it when not in use.
 Interconnectivity – Your computer has Ethernet and i.LINK™functionalities. i.LINK™is a bi-directional
digital interface for exchanging data with compatible devices, such as camcorders.
 Windows®XP Professional - Your system includes the latest consumer operating system from
Microsoft.
 Excellent customer support - If you are experiencing any problems with your computer, please check
the VAIO-Link website for a possible solution:
http://www.vaio-link.com
Before contacting VAIO-Link, please try to solve the problem by reading the User Guide or the manuals
and help files for the peripherals or software.

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Documentation pack
Your documentation pack contains printed user guides, as well as online user guides presented on a
documentation CD-ROM.
Printed documentation
The printed part of your documentation pack contains the following:
 A Getting Started brochure, where you will find a brief description of the items in your box, some
specifications of your VAIO desktop, and how to set up your computer;
 A Customer Guide, where you will find all the basic information to start using your VAIO desktop, as
well as troubleshooting and VAIO-Link information;
 Yo u r Sony Guarantee conditions.
 A Safety Regulations Guide for your information.
 A Modem Regulations flyer applying to the modem.
Online documentation
Preinstalled on your desktop are the following guides:
1The Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide:
 Using your VAIO desktop shows you how to use the standard components of your system. In this
part of the manual you will also find out what you can do with a Memory Stick™.
 Connecting peripheral devices explains how you can add functionality by connecting various
peripherals.
 Getting help explains the support options available to you, and offers basic troubleshooting tips.
 Precautions provides facts and advice about using your VAIO desktop.
 Specifications lists details on your computer, drivers and accessories.
 Glossary refers to terms used in this manual.

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2The Software Guide:
 About the Software is a short description of the features of the software pre-installed on your
system.
 Using Video software explains how to use Sony video software: DVgate, MovieShaker and Smart
Capture.
 Managing audio files with SonicStage describes how to convert your existing MP3, WMA and
WAV format audio files into ATRAC3 format.
 Using Imaging software gives you an idea what you can do with still images: creating a collection,
slide show, screen saver or photo album.
 Customizing your VAIO computer explains how to set up your system's display and so on.
 Installing and updating applications details how to install, run or uninstall a software
application.
 Managing drivers describes how to install, update or uninstall a driver.
 Using the Product Recovery CD-ROMs explains how to perform a system and application recovery.
 Using partitioned drives tells you what you can do with partitioned drives.
 Consult the Online Help files of the software you are using for detailed information on features and
troubleshooting.
 Refer to the Microsoft Quick Start manual for more information on Windows®.

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Your Sony VAIO desktop and its accessories
The following hardware items are in the box:
*The phone cable is used to connect the internal modem. Please make sure the phone plug attached to the cable is specific to the
country you are in. See Using the correct phone plug (page 46) for details.
1 main unit 6 VAIO wheel mouse
2 LCD monitor 7 VAIO convertible keyboard
3 power cable 8 documentation pack
4 phone cable and plug* 9 product recovery CD-ROMs
5 palm rest 10 stand

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Ergonomic considerations
Whenever possible, try and take into account the following ergonomic considerations when using your new
computer, whether at home or in the office:
 Position of the keyboard and mouse –Place the keyboard directly in front of you (1). Keep your
forearms horizontal, with your wrists in a neutral, comfortable position (2) while using the keyboard or
mouse –not at an angle. Let your upper arms hang naturally at your sides. Use the palm rest only briefly,
to relax your wrists when you are not typing. Place the mouse at the same level as the keyboard and use
your whole arm to move it.

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 Position and viewing angle of the monitor –Set the display at a comfortable viewing distance (3).
Make sure the display screen is at eye level or slightly lower. Use the display’s tilting feature to find the
best position. You can reduce eye-strain and muscle-fatigue by adjusting the tilt of the display to the
proper position. Remember to adjust the brightness setting of the display.
 Furniture and posture –Sit in a chair with good back support (4). 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 too far backwards.
 Lighting –Choose a location where windows and lights do not create glare or reflection on the display.
Use indirect lighting to avoid bright spots reflecting on the display. You can also purchase accessories for
your display that help reduce glare. Proper lighting adds to your comfort and work effectiveness.
 Ventilation –Make sure you leave at least 25 cm of space behind and on the left of the main unit (5).
 And finally –Remember to have breaks during sessions with your computer. Excessive use of the
computer may strain muscles or tendons.

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Using your VAIO desktop
This section describes how to start using your computer and how to use your computer’s internal and
external devices.
Locating controls and connectors
Front panel
1 CD-RW/DVD-ROM eject
button
(page 25)
2 CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive (page 25)
3 Memory Stick™indicator (page 32)
4 hard disk drive indicator -
5 CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive
indicator
(page 25)
6 power switch and indicator (page 16)
7 front panel cover -
8 Memory Stick™slot (page 32)
9 PC Card slot (page 29)
10 USB connector (page 50)
11 i.LINK™4-pin connector (page 51)
OPEN/CLOSE
MEMORY
STICK
HD
DISC
OPEN/CLOSE
MEMORY
STICK
USB
i.LINK S400
HD
PC CARD
DISC
MEMORY STICK

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Back panel
 The mains power cord and connector are hazardous voltage according to
EN60950.
1 AC input connector (page 16)
2 t-lever (page 72)
3 Ethernet connector (page 54)
4 USB connector (page 50)
5 USB connector (page 50)
6 headphones connector (page 48)
7 line-in connector -
8 microphone connector (page 49)
9 i.LINK™6-pin connector (page 51)
10 LCD monitor connector (page 78)
11 phone connector (page 45)
MICPHONES LINE IN
i.LINK S400 LCD

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LCD overview
Your VAIO desktop is delivered with a 15”LCD (XGA TFT) monitor.
1 power indicator (page 16)
2 information LED -
3 brightness control -
4 volume control -
5 mouse connector (page 24)
6 USB connector (page 50)
7 keyboard connector (page 18)
USBMOUSE

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Adjusting the viewing angle
To adjust the height and viewing angle of the display, proceed as follows:
1Hold both sides of the display, pull the display out towards you, and upwards.
2Set the display height so it does not touch the keyboard, and adjust the viewing angle approximately 27
degrees from eye level to the center of the screen.

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Starting your computer
To start your computer the first time, you can either:
Press the power button on the system unit until the green power indicator light turns on (1).
OR
Press the Standby button (2) above the numbered PPKs on the keyboard until the green power indicator
light on the main unit turns on.
Once you have started using your computer, you can use the Programmable Power Keys (PPK) on the
keyboard to start your system and launch your favourite application automatically.
 If you press the power button for more than four seconds, the computer will switch itself off.
Do not forget to turn on the monitor separately.

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Shutting down your computer
It is important that you shut down your computer properly so as not to lose unsaved data.
To shut down your computer, proceed as follows:
1Click the Start button on the Windows®taskbar.
2Click Turn Off Computer.
The Turn off computer dialog box appears.
3Select Tur n Off.
4Click OK.
5Wait for your computer to turn off automatically.
The power indicator turns off.
6Turn off any peripherals connected to your computer.
 Respond to any prompts warning you to save documents.
If you are unable to shut down your computer:
- Close all software in use.
- Remove the PC Card, if applicable. To do so, double-click the Safely Remove Hardware icon in the taskbar. Select the hardware you want to
unplug and click Stop.
- Disconnect any USB devices.
- Press the <Alt>+<F4> keys at the same time and select Turn Off to turn the computer off.
If this does not work, you can press the power button for more than four seconds. This will shut down the computer. This operation may result in loss
of data.
If you want to shut down the computer for a short period only, you can save power by using the Standby mode. Select Stand By from the Turn off
computer window.

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Using the keyboard
This section describes the features of the VAIO convertible keyboard.
Num Lock
Scrol Lock
MAIL
INTERNET
P1
P2
PICTURE
HELP
P3
P4
Enter
+
-
Del
Ins
End
NumLk
ScrLk
Delete Insert Prt Scr
Sys Rq
Pause
Break
Esc
End
Ctrl
Alt Gr
Alt
Ctrl
Fn
Caps Lock
PgDn
PgUp
Home
PgUp
PgDn
Home
@
Caps
Lock
£
Num Lock
Scrol Lock
MAIL
INTERNET
P1
P2
PICTURE
HELP
P3
P4
Enter
+
-
Del
Ins
End
NumLk
ScrLk
Delete Insert Prt Scr
Sys Rq
Pause
Break
Esc
End
Ctrl
Alt Gr
Alt
Ctrl
Fn
Caps Lock
PgDn
PgUp
Home
PgUp
PgDn
Home
@
Caps
Lock
£
13
15 14
11
12
12

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Keys Descriptions
Escape key (1) The <Esc> (Escape) key is used to cancel commands.
Function keys (2) The twelve function keys along the top of the keyboard are used to
perform designated tasks. For example, in many applications, <F1> is the
Help key. The task associated with each function key may vary from one
application to another.
Correction keys (3) The <Insert>, <Back Space> and <Delete> keys enable you to make
corrections when typing.
Print Screen key (4) The <Prt Sc> key takes an electronic snapshot of the screen and moves it
to the Windows®Clipboard. You can then paste the screenshot into a
document and print it.
Standby button (5) Press this button either to start up your computer, or to enter Standby
mode, or to resume from a power saving mode.
Programmable Power Keys (PPK) (6) You can use these buttons, numbered 1 to 4, to launch straight into
assigned applications.
Numeric keypad area (7) This contains the keys found on a typical calculator. Use the numeric
keypad area to type numbers or to perform mathematical calculations such
as addition and subtraction. Note that you must press the <Num Lock> key
to activate the keypad.
Navigation keys (8) These keys enable you to move the cursor on the screen.
Application key (9) The Application key displays a shortcut menu; pressing this key is
equivalent to clicking the right mouse button.