Sony VAIO PCV-RS402 Installation instructions

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Hardware Guide
PCV-RZ series (PCV-1146)
PCV-RS series (PCV-2246)

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Notice
© 2003 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.
Macrovision: This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by U.S. patents and other intellectual
property rights. Use of this copyright protection technology must be authorised by Macrovision, and is intended for home and other
limited viewing uses only unless otherwise authorised by Macrovision. Reverse engineering or disassembly is prohibited.
In the manual, the ™ or ® marks are not specified.
Sony Corporation reserves the right to make any modification to this manual or the information contained herein at any time without
notice. The software described herein is governed by the terms of a separate user licence agreement.
Please note that the illustrations in this manual may not necessarily apply to your model. Please see the
Specifications sheet for the specific configuration of your VAIO.

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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 not used in cabinets.
Cushions formed by corrugated board used in packaging.
Owner's record
The serial number and model number are located on the back of your Sony desktop. Record the numbers
and refer to them if you call VAIO-Link. See also the printed Specifications document.

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Safety information
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.
❑Risk of explosion if battery is replaced by an incorrect type. Dispose of used batteries according to the
instructions.
❑Do not move your computer while the system is in Standby mode.
❑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 and magnetic bracelets.
Audio/video
Audio and picture distortion may occur if this equipment is positioned in close proximity to any equipment
emitting electromagnetic radiation.

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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.
❑Take care 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 drive
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 laserbeam. The optical disc drives
are classified as CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCTS and comply with the Laser Product Safety Standard EN 60825-1. Repair and maintenance
only by authorised 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 European
Directive 1999/5/EC (radio equipment and telecommunications terminal equipment Directive).
Declaration of Conformity
The European Union is targeting the free movement of goods for the internal market and to prevent technical barriers to trade. This
effort has resulted in several EU Directives asking that manufacturers make their products comply with essential standards.
Manufacturers are required to affix the "CE" mark on the products they sell and to draw up a "Declaration of Conformity" (DoC).
Primarily, the Declarations of Conformity are intended for the market surveillance authorities as proof that products satisfy the required
standards. Additionally, Sony provides these EU DoC's on the website http://www.compliance.sony.de as a service to our customers.
You can search for all Declarations of Conformity available for a specific product by typing in the model name in the search box. A list
of matching documentswill be displayed and can be downloaded. Please note that the availability of declarations depends on the scope
of the EU Directives and the individual product specifications.
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).
Before activating the built-in modem, please read the Modem Regulations leaflet.

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Disposing of the internal memory backup battery
❑Your Sony VAIO desktop is equipped with an internal back-up memory battery (motherboard 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: 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 waste collection system.
Disposing of the AA batteries
Some models are delivered with a remote control.
❑The bundled remote control is powered by AA batteries.
❑Do not handle damaged or leaking batteries.
❑Dispose of promptly and properly at end-of-life.
❑May explode or leak if recharged, disposed of in fire, mixed with other types of battery or improperly
installed.
❑Keep away from children.
❑In some areas, the disposal of 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 computer. Sony has combined leading-edge technology in
audio, video, computing and communications to provide you with state-of-the-art personal computing.
As well as exceptional performance, here are the main features you can enjoy:
❑Dual drives – Enjoy the freedom of two optical disc drives.
❑Sony audio and video quality – The advanced graphics card and high-quality external stereo speakers
enable you to take advantage of today’s advanced multimedia applications, games, and entertainment
software.
❑Multimedia features – Enjoy audio and video CDs and DVDs, even record them yourself.
❑Giga Pocket* – Take advantage of the new Giga Pocket technology, allowing you to watch TV and
record your favourite programs digitally and by remote control.
❑Sony Memory Stick slot – This compact digital storage medium allows you to easily transfer images,
sounds, data and text between cameras, computers, and more.
❑Interconnectivity – Your computer has Memory Stick, USB 2.0, i.LINK, CompactFlash and SmartMedia
functionalities.
❑Windows XP – 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: www.vaio-link.com. Before contacting VAIO-Link, please
try to solve the problem by reading this guide, your printed Guide to Troubleshooting, or the manuals
and help files for the peripherals or software.
* Not available on all models. See the printed Specifications sheet for details.

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Documentation pack
Your documentation pack contains printed information and user guides to read on your computer. The user
guides are installed automatically on your hard drive as soon as you insert your VAIO Recovery and
Documentation Disc for the first time and click Continue. After this installation, they are available
through the My Documentation icon .
You may have a separate disc for the documentation of bundled accessories.
Printed documentation
The printed part of your documentation pack includes the following:
❑A Getting Started brochure, where you will find a brief description of the items in your box, and how
to set up your computer;
❑A Specifications sheet, containing a table of specifications, a list of bundled software and, on the
reverse side, a guide to setting up your VAIO;
❑A Guide to Troubleshooting / Using the VAIO Recovery and Documentation Disc, where you will
find solutions to common problems, an explanation of the purpose and use of the VAIO disc delivered
with your computer, and VAIO-Link information;
❑You r Sony Guarantee conditions;
❑A Safety Regulations leaflet;
❑A Modem Regulations leaflet.
❑Certain models only: Wireless Product Regulations for the Wireless LAN accessories PCWA-C300S and
PCWA-DE30.

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Non-printed documentation
Click on the desktop icon My Documentation to view the VAIO user guides.
❑The Hardware Guide (this guide) explains the features of your VAIO in detail, how to use these features
confidently and safely, connect peripheral devices, upgrade your computer, and more.
❑The Software Guide describes how to register your VAIO, the software features available with VAIO
systems, how to change settings, how to manage drivers and more.
❑Depending on your model: The Giga Pocket manual, which explains how to watch and record TV and
video on your PC.
My Documentation also gives you:
❑A direct link to the VAIO-Link website, Sony’s service centre. This will give you troubleshooting hints,
downloads, contact details, and everything else you need for the smooth operation of your VAIO.
❑Help files about reading the guides.
❑Important information about your computer, in the form of notices and announcements.
Depending on your model you may accessories which have the following guides on a separate disc:
❑The Network Media Receiver manual, explaining how to display audio, video and photos files, stored
on a different computer.
❑Guides for the Wireless LAN accessories PCWA-C300S and PCWA-DE30.
Further sources
❑Consult the Online Help files of the software you are using for detailed information on features and
troubleshooting.
❑Go to www.club-vaio.com to find online tutorials about your favourite VAIO software.

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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:

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❑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.
❑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, if available,
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. If you are using a CRT
monitor, make sure that the refresh rate is at an optimal level, that is, at least 75Hz.
❑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 computer
Once you have read and followed the information in the printed Getting Started guide and
Specifications sheet, you can start using your computer safely and confidently. Read on to get the most
out of using your VAIO computer.
❑Shutting down your computer safely (page 13)
❑Using the keyboard (page 14)
❑Using the TV function (page 15)
❑Using the mouse (page 16)
❑Using the disc drives (page 18)
❑Using the floppy disk drive (page 22)
❑Using the modem (page 23)
❑Using power modes (page 24)
❑Using the media slots (page 27)
❑PCV-RZ models only: Using PC Cards (page 34)
❑Expansion capabilities (page 36)

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Shutting down your computer safely
It is important that you shut down your computer properly so you do not lose unsaved data.
To shut down your computer, proceed as follows:
1Turn off any peripherals connected to your computer.
2Click the Start button.
3Click Turn Off Computer.
The Turn off computer window appears.
4Click Tu r n O ff .
5Respond to any prompts warning you to save documents or to consider other users and wait for your
computer to turn off automatically.
The power indicator turns off.
✍See the printed Troubleshooting Guide if you have problems shutting down your computer.

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Using the keyboard
Your computer is delivered with a VAIO keyboard. The features are much the same a standard keyboard,
plus some additional functions.
For information on the standard keys and shortcuts, please go to the Windows Help and Support Center.
The VAIO-Link website (www.vaio-link.com) also contains glossary information to help you use the
keyboard.
Indicators
Using the shortcut keys
Depending on the keyboard delivered with your model, you may be able to use shortcut keys to start your
favourite software, without having to click the shortcut icon on the desktop.
Use an <S> Key simply by pressing it.
If you want to, you can use VAIO Action Setup to change the functions of the <S> Keys. All the buttons
are reprogrammable.
Light On Off
Num Lock Turns on when the number keys in the numeric
keypad are active.
Turns off when the alphanumeric character keys in
the keypad area are active.
Caps Lock Turns on when the letters appear in uppercase as
you type. The <Shift> key lowers the case of typed
letters when Caps Lock is on.
Turns off when the letters appear in lowercase as
you type (unless you hold down the <Shift> key).
Scroll Lock Turns on when the screen scrolls differently (not all
applications support this function).
Turns off when the information moves across the
display normally.

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Certain models only: Using the TVfunction
Depending on your model*, your computer may be equipped with a TV-tuner board. In combination with
Sony's Giga Pocket software, it allows you to:
❑Watch, record and play back analogue broadcasted cable and terrestrial TV-programs, all by remote
control;
❑Digitise analogue video and audio using the S-video or composite and audio inputs;
❑Manage your video units (capsules), preview them and create multiple folders;
❑Set up a timer to record channels at a repeated time;
❑Suspend viewing TV (time-shifting);
❑Stream your recorded TV contents via Ethernet (or WLAN) to connected PCs;
❑Export your video capsules to MPEG2, MPEG1 and (DVI) AVI-files;
✍Sony cannot guarantee the streaming of recorded content if it is beyond a certain level of high quality.
For details on using Giga Pocket and the remote control, please see the dedicated online guide under My
Documentation or the help files within the software itself.
* See the printed Specifications sheet for details.

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Using the mouse
The VAIO wheel mouse allows you to control the cursor in a number of ways. You can point to, select, drag
and scroll objects on the screen using the buttons and the wheel.
PCV-RZ models only: Your computer is delivered with a VAIO PS/2 optical mouse, which uses a light-emitting
diode (LED) instead of a ball. Avoid using the mouse on a piece of glass or other transparent material, as this
can interfere with smooth cursor movement on the screen.
The mouse has the following functions:
You can adjust the mouse pointer speed and other functions under Mouse Properties. To display Mouse
Properties, go to the Control Panel, select Printers and Other Hardware, then select Mouse.
Button Function
1 Left button Click or double-click the left button to select items. To drag
and drop items, hold the left button down while sliding the
mouse, then release the button to drop the item.
2 Central wheel Turn the central wheel to scroll up or down a page. Press the
wheel once to lock the scroll action and control the
movement by moving the entire mouse (the scroll function
is available only with applications that support it).
3 Right button Press the right button once to display a context-sensitive
shortcut menu (not always an active function).

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Setting up the mouse for left-handed users
To set your mouse up for left-handed users, proceed as follows:
1Go to Start, select Control Panel, then click the Printers and Other Hardware option.
2Click the mouse icon.
The Mouse Properties dialog box appears.
3In the Buttons tab, select the option button next to Switch primary and secondary buttons.
4Click OK.
The new mouse settings are now in place.

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Using the disc drives
Your computer is equipped with two separate optical drives. Please see the printed Specifications sheet to
see which drives your model has.
For installing software and using the VAIO Recovery Disc it is recommended that you use the upper drive.
❑A DVD±RW drive reads data from and writes data onto DVD and CD.
❑A DVD-ROM drive reads data from DVDs and CDs.
❑A CD-RW drive reads data from and writes to CDs.
❑A CD-ROM drive reads data from CDs.
To insert a disc, proceed as follows:
1Turn on the computer.
2Press the appropriate eject button
to open the drive.
The tray slides out.
3Place a disc in the tray with the
label side facing upwards.
Make sure the disc is secure in the
centre of the tray.
4Close the tray by pushing it gently.
✍See the printed Troubleshooting Guide if you
have problems using discs.

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Reading and writing CDs and DVDs
To achieve optimum performance when writing data on to disc (also called ’burning’), follow these
recommendations:
❑Only use circular discs. Do not use discs with any other shape (star, heart, card, etc.), as this may damage
the disc drive.
❑Do not strike or shake the computer while writing data to a disc.
❑For optimal writing speed, deactivate the screensaver before writing data to a disc.
❑Memory-resident disc utilities may cause unstable operation or data loss. Deactivate these utilities before
writing data to a disc.
❑When using a software application to burn discs, make sure you exit and close all other applications.
❑Never touch the surface of the disc. Fingerprints and dust on the surface of a disc may cause writing
errors.
❑Never put stickers on discs. This will affect the use of the disc irreparably.