Sony VAIO PCV-RX312 User manual

N
Sony VAIO Desktop
User Guide
PCV-RX312

Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide
Read this first
1
nN
Read this first
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, DigitalPrint,DVgate, i.LINK and the i.LINK logo, Sony Style Imaging, MovieShaker, Smart Capture, UI Design Selector, VAIO Action
Setup, VAIO System Information, SonicStage, Memory Stick and the MemoryStick logo, VAIO andthe VAIO logoare trademarks of Sony
Corporation.
i.LINK is a trademark of Sony used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE1394 connection.
Microsoft, Microsoft Works, 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 and Adobe Photoshop Elements 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.
Symantec Norton Antivirus is a trademark of Symantec.
PowerDVD is a trademark or registered trademark of CyberLink Corporation.
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.

Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide
Read this first
2
nN
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.

Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide
Read this first
3
nN
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 name: PCV-RX312
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.

Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide
Read this first
4
nN
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 drive
The use of optical instruments can cause eye hazard. As the laser beam used in this product isharmful to the
eyes, do not attempt any disassembling process. For servicing, refer to qualified personnel only.

Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide
Read this first
5
nN
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).
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 flyer.
There is visible and invisible radiation when the optical disc drive is open: avoid direct exposure to the laser beam. The CD-RW and
DVD-ROM 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 authorized Sony technicians. Improper repairs and use can create safety hazards.
CLASS 1
LASER PRODUCT
TO EN 60825-1

Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide
Read this first
6
nN
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 waste collection system.

Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide
Welcome
7
nN
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 a fast processor, an internal modem, and a fast Ethernet
interface.
❑Dual drives – Enjoy the freedom of two drives; your model has both a CD-RW and a DVD-ROM drive
built into the system.
❑Sony audio and video quality – The high-quality external stereo speakers enable you to take
advantage of today’s advanced multimedia applications, games, and entertainment software.
❑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 keyboard - Featuring power-on capabilities and shortcut keys to launch your favourite
applications within seconds.
❑Interconnectivity – Your computer hasEthernetand i.LINK™ functionalities.i.LINK™ isa bi-directional
digital interface for exchanging data with compatible devices, such as camcorders.
❑Windows®XP Home Edition - 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 either by e-mail or by telephone, please try to solve the problem by reading
the User Guide or the manuals and help files for the peripherals or software.

Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide
Welcome
8
nN
Documentation pack
Your documentation pack contains printed guides, as well as online user guides preinstalled on your hard
drive.
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;
❑Your Sony Guarantee conditions;
❑A Safety Regulations Guide for your information;
❑A Modem Regulations flyer applying to the modem.
Online documentation
The online documentation contains 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.
❑Glossary refers to terms used in this manual.

Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide
Welcome
9
nN
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 DigitalPrint explains how to get the most enjoyment out of your photographs taken with a
digital camera.
❑Customizing your VAIOcomputerexplains howto set up yourmodem 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-ROMsexplains how to perform a system and application recovery.
❑Using partitioned drives tells you what you can do with partitioned drives.
3Refer to the Specifications online document for details on your computer, drivers and accessories.
4In the VAIO-Link Customer Service Guide you will find all the VAIO-Link information you need,
including specific contact numbers and addresses for each country.
5Consult the Online Help files of the software you are using for detailed information on features and
troubleshooting.
6Refer to the Microsoft Quick Start manual for more information on Windows®.

Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide
Welcome
10
nN
Your Sony VAIO desktop and its accessories
The following hardware items are in the box*:
✍* See the Specifications online document.
**Used toconnecttheinternalmodem.Pleasereadthesection Using thecorrect phoneplug(page30)beforeconnecting the modem.
1 main unit 6 AC adapter and power cable for the
speakers (country-specific)
2 VAIO keyboard with palmrest 7 VAIO wheel mouse
3 power cable 8 speakers
4 phone cable** (country-specific) 9 documentation pack
5 phone plug adapter** (country-specific) 10 product recovery CD-ROMs

Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide
Welcome
11
nN
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:

Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide
Welcome
12
nN
❑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 thetilt 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.

Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide
Using your VAIO desktop
13
nN
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 (page 14)
❑Starting your computer (page 16)
❑Shutting down your computer (page 17)
❑Using the keyboard (page 18)
❑Using the shortcut keys (page 23)
❑Using the mouse (page 24)
❑Using the CD and DVD drives (page 25)
❑Using the floppy disk drive (page 27)
❑Using the modem (page 29)
❑Expansion capabilities (page 31)
❑Using Memory Stick™ (page 32)
❑Using power saving modes (page 41)

Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide
Using your VAIO desktop
14
nN
Locating controls and connectors
Front panel
1 DVD-ROM drive (page 25)
2 CD-RW drive (page 25)
3 floppy disk drive (page 27)
4 floppy disk drive indicator (page 27)
5 disc drive indicator (page 25)
6 hard disk drive indicator (page 16)
7 power button and indicator (page 16)
8 DVD-ROM drive eject button (page 25)
9 CD-RW eject button (page 25)
10 Memory Stick™ slot (page 32)
11 Memory Stick™ indicator (page 32)
12 floppy disk eject button (page 27)
13 2 USB ports (page 47)
14 4-pin i.LINK™ port (page 49)
while reading and writing data from
DRIVE

Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide
Using your VAIO desktop
15
nN
Back panel
✍The mains power cord and connector are
hazardous voltage according to EN60950.
1 mouse connector (page 24)
2 keyboard connector (page 18)
3 USB connector (page 47)
4 USB connector (page 47)
5 Ethernet connector (page 52)
6 printer connector (page 48)
7 i.LINK™ 6-pin connector (page 49)
8 serial connector /
9 headphones connector (page 45)
10 line-in connector /
11 microphone connector (page 46)
12 AC input connector /
13 VGA monitor connector (page 45)
14 AGP slot (page 31)
15 PCI slot (page 31)
16 PCI slot (page 31)
17 Modem slot (page 31)
18 telephone line connector (page 29)
4
3
2
1

Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide
Using your VAIO desktop
16
nN
Starting your computer
Once you have all the components set up as described in the Getting Started guide, you can begin to use
your computer.
To start up your computer, proceed as follows:
1Press the power button on the system unit until the blue power indicator light turns on (1).
2Press the power button on your monitor to turn the display on (2).
3Press the power button on the speakers to turn the sound on (3).
Once you have started using your computer, you can use the shortcut keys 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 and you risk losing unsaved data.

Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide
Using your VAIO desktop
17
nN
Shutting down your computer
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:
1Click the Start button.
2Click Turn Off Computer.
The Turn off computer screen appears.
3Click Turn Off.
Wait for your computer to turn off automatically.
The power indicator turns off.
4Turn off any peripherals connected to your computer.
✍Respond to any prompts warning you to save documents or to consider other users.
If you are unable to shut down your computer;
- Close all software in use.
- Disconnect any USB devices.
- Press <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Delete> at the same time. If you have not changed the default setting, you will enter the Task Manager. Select Turn
Off from the Shut Down menu to turn the computer off.
Alternatively, press <Alt>+<F4> and select Turn Off from the screen that appears.
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 resultin loss
of data.
If you are not using the computer for a short period of time, you can save power by using the Standby or the Hibernate mode.Go to Start, Turn
Off Computer, and select Stand By (see Using power saving modes (page 41) for details).

Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide
Using your VAIO desktop
18
nN
Using the keyboard
This section describes the features of the VAIO keyboard.
MAIL INTERNET MUSIC PICTURE VIDEO HELP
S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6
Num Lock Caps Lock Scroll Lock
Esc F1 F2 F3 F4 F11F10F6 F9F8F7F5 F12
Delete Insert Prt Sc
Sys Rq Pause
Break
¬
`¦
£
"
$
€
%
!123456789
^&(*)
_
+
-=
{[}]
@
~
´#
:;
P
?
/
>
.
<,
O
I
L
KJ
UYT
R
EW
HGFDS
XCVBNM
A
Q
Z
|
\
Fn
Ctrl Alt
Caps
Lock
Alt Gr
Ctrl
Home PgDn End
PgUp
NumLk
CapsLk
/
3
456
789
*
-
12
End PgDn
Home PgUp
+
Del
Ins
Enter
0
.

Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide
Using your VAIO desktop
19
nN
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.
Lock keys (4) Press Caps Lock once to activate the uppercase characters. Use the Num
Lock key to activate the numerical keypad.
Print Screen key (5) 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.
Numeric keypad area (6) This contains the keys found on a typical calculator. Use the numeric
keypad areato type numbersor toperform mathematicalcalculationssuch
as addition and subtraction. Notethat youmust pressthe<Num Lock>key
to activate the keypad.
Navigation keys (7) These keys enable you to move the cursor on the screen.
Application key (8) The Application key displays a shortcut menu; pressing this key is
equivalent to clicking the right mouse button.
Operator keys (9) Several keys are used in combination with at least one other key: <Ctrl>,
<Alt> and <Shift>. When held down at the same time as another key, the
<Ctrl> (Control) and <Alt> (Alternate) keys offer another way to execute
commands. For example, in many applications, instead of choosing the
Save command from a menu, you can hold down <Ctrl> and press <S>
(referred to as <Ctrl>+<S>). The <Shift> key is used to type capital letters
or special symbols such as @ and $.