Sony VAIO PCG-FX203K Installation instructions manual

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Sony Notebook User Guide
PCG-FX203/PCG-FX203K/PCG-FX205K

Sony Notebook User Guide
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Notice
© 2001 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 method claims of certain U.S. patents and
other intellectual property rights owned by Macrovision Corporation and other rights owners. Use of this copyright protection
technology must be authorized by Macrovision Corporation, and is intended for home and other limited viewing uses only unless
otherwise authorized by Macrovision Corporation. Reverse engeneering or dissambly is prohibited.
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, DVgate, i.LINKTM, PictureGear, PowerPanel, MovieShaker, Smart Capture, Smart Connect, Smart Connect Monitor, Sony Notebook
Setup, UI Design Selector, VAIO Action Setup, VisualFlow, OpenMG Jukebox, Memory Stick™, Memory Stick Formatter and the Memory
Stick logo, VAIO and the VAIO logo are trademarks of Sony Corporation. The Microsoft, Windows, the Windows logo, Windows Media
and Outlook trademarks or registered trademarks of U.S. Microsoft Corporation in the U.S. and other countries.
i.LINK™ is the name for the IEEE 1394-1995 standards and their revisions.
Adobe®and Adobe®Acrobat®Reader 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 and RealJukebox are trademarks or registered trademarks of RealNetworks, inc. in the U.S. and other countries.
PowerPanel is a trademark of U.S. Phoenix Technologies Corporation.

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Symantec AntiVirus is a trademark of Symantec 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.
All other trademarks are trademarks of their respective owners.
Specifications are subject to change without notice.
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.

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Safety information
Owner's record
The model number and serial number are located on the bottom of your Sony notebook. 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: PCG-982M (for PCG-FX203 and PCG-FX203K) / PCG-981M (for PCG-FX205K)
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 notebook to rain or moisture.
❑Avoid using the modem during a severe electrical storm.
❑Do not use the modem or a telephone to report a gas leak in the vicinity of the leak.
❑To change the backup battery, please contact your nearest Sony Service Center.
❑Before you connect peripherals, turn off the computer and all peripherals.
❑Connect the power cord only after connecting all cables.
❑Turn on the computer only after turning off all peripherals.
❑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.
❑Use caution when installing or modifying telephone lines.
❑Use your notebook only with the supplied AC adapter. To disconnect your notebook completely from
mains voltage, unplug the AC adapter. AC adapter mains connector and power cord: hazardous voltage
to EN 60950. All other connectors for this notebook are SELV (Safety Extra Low Voltage), according to EN
60950.
❑Please make sure that the socket outlet is easily accessible.
❑Never touch uninsulated telephone wire or terminals unless the telephone line has been disconnected
at the network interface.
DVD-ROM drive
❑The use of the optical instruments supplied with your notebook will cause eye hazard. As the laser beam
used in this product is harmful to eyes, do not attempt any disassembling process. For servicing, refer to
qualified personnel only.
❑There are visible and invisible radiations when the DVD-ROM drive is open: avoid direct exposure to the
laser beam.

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Regulatory information
This product conforms to the following European Directives:
73/23/EEC (Low Voltage Directive)
89/336/EEC, 92/31/EEC (EMC Directives)
93/68/EEC (CE Marking Directive)
1999/5/EC (radio equipment and telecommunications terminal equipment Directive) for models equipped with an internal modem.
This product complies with EN 55022 Class B and EN 55024 for use in 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 shorter than
3 metres (9.8 feet).
The DVD-ROM 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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Disposing of lithium ion batteries
❑Do not handle damaged or leaking lithium ion batteries. Dispose of promptly and properly at end-of-life.
❑Danger of explosion if the battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type
recommended by the manufacturer. Discard used batteries according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
❑The battery pack used in this device may present a fire or chemical burn hazard if mistreated. Do not
disassemble, heat above 60°C (140°F) or incinerate.
❑Keep away from children.
❑Your notebook is equipped with an internal backup memory battery. For changing this battery, please
contact VAIO-Link:
http://www.vaio-link.com
❑In some areas the disposal of lithium ion batteries in household or business waste may be prohibited.
❑Use the public collection system.

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Welcome
Congratulations on purchasing a Sony VAIO notebook. Sony has combined leading-edge technology in
audio, video, computing and communications to provide you with state-of-the-art personal computing.
Here are just some of the features your VAIO notebook has to offer.
❑Exceptional performance - Your PC includes a fast processor, a fast CD-ROM and DVD-ROM and an
internal modem.
❑Portability - The rechargeable battery pack provides hours of use without AC power.
❑Sony audio and video quality - A high-resolution LCD screen enables you to take advantage of today’s
advanced multimedia applications, games, and entertainment software.
❑Multimedia features –Enjoy the speakers to listen to audio and video CDs.
❑Interconnectivity – Your computer has Ethernet and i.LINK™functionalities. i.LINK™is a bidirectional
digital interface for exchanging data.
❑Windows®- Your system includes the latest operating system from Microsoft.
❑Communications - Access popular online services, send and receive e-mails, browse the Internet...
❑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, you may 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 paper and online user guides on a Documentation CD-ROM.
Printed documentation
❑A Getting Started brochure, where you find a brief description of the items in your box and some
specifications of your notebook;
❑A Customer Guide, where you find all the basic information to start using your notebook;
❑Your Sony Guarantee conditions.
Online documentation
1The Sony Notebook User Guide:
❑Using Your Sony Notebook shows you how to use the standard components of your system.
❑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 notebook.
❑Specifications provides details on your computer, drivers and accessories.
2Refer to your Software Guide for information on the bundled software and the Sony applications.
❑About the Software is a short description of the features of the software pre-installed on your
system.
❑Customizing your notebook explains how to set your system and power management.
❑Using the Product Recovery CD-ROMs explains how to perform a system and application recovery.
3Consult the Online Help files of the software you are using for detailed information on features and
troubleshooting.
4Refer to the Microsoft Quick Start manual for more information on Windows®.

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Your notebook and its accessories
Following hardware items should be in the box:
1 main unit 7 weight saver
2 product recovery CD-ROMs 8 video cable
3 documentation pack 9 phone plug (country specific)
4 AC adapter 10 phone cable
5 rechargeable battery pack 11 power cord
6 removable floppy disk drive (installed at factory) 12 DVD-ROM drive (installed at factory)

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Ergonomic considerations
You will be using your notebook as a portable device in a variety of environments. Whenever possible, you
should attempt to take account of the following ergonomic considerations to both stationary and portable
environments:
❑Position of your computer –Place the computer directly in front of you (1). Keep your forearms
horizontal (2), with your wrists in a neutral, comfortable position (3) while using the keyboard,
touchpad, or external mouse. Let your upper arms hang naturally at your sides. Have breaks during
sessions with your computer. Excessive use of the computer may strain muscles or tendons.
❑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.

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❑Viewing angle of the computer’s display –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.
Adjust the brightness setting of the display as well.
❑Lighting –Choose a location where windows and lights do not create glare and reflection on the
display. Use indirect lighting to avoid bright spots on the display. You can also purchase accessories for
your display that help reduce glare. Proper lighting adds to your comfort and work effectiveness.
❑Placement of an external display –When using an external display, set the display at a comfortable
viewing distance. Make sure the display screen is at eye level or slightly lower when you are sitting in
front of the monitor.
❑Tilt stands –You use the tilt stands to place the computer at an angle that allows confortable typing.

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Using your notebook
This section describes how to start using your computer and how to use your computer’s internal and
external devices.
Locating controls and connectors
Right
1 PPK buttons (page 52)
2 power button (page 27)
3 DVD-ROM drive (page 36)
4 multi-purpose bay (for weight saver or floppy disk
drive or second battery with weight saver)
(page 39), (page 41), (page 23)

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Left
✍AC adapter mains connector and power cord: hazardous voltage, according to EN 60950.
All other connectors for this notebook are SELV (Safety Extra Low Voltage), according to EN 60950.
Phone cable and connectors are TNV (Telecommunications Network Voltage), according to EN60950.
1 TV Out connector (page 63) 4 i.LINK™connector (page 72)
2 microphone connector (page 67) 5 PC Card slots (page 45)
3 headphone connector for headphone or external speakers (page 66) 6 battery bay (page 19)

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Front
1 LCD screen (page 34) 7 battery 1 and 2 indicators (page 33)
2 speakers (page 34) 8 hard disk drive indicator (page 33)
3 keyboard (page 30) 9 Num Lock indicator (page 33)
4 touchpad (page 35) 10 Caps Lock indicator (page 33)
5 left/right buttons (page 35) 11 Scroll Lock indicator (page 33)
6 power indicator (page 33)

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Back
✍There is a ventilation slot located near the USB connector. Do not cover the ventilation slot when the computer is on.
1 phone line jack (page 51) 5 monitor connector (page 60)
2 USB connector (page 69) 6 Ethernet connector (page 75)
3 serial connector (page 71) 7 USB connector (page 69)
4printer (page 71) 8DCIn (page 18)

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Bottom
1 port replicator connector cover (page 57)
2 release lever (page 57)
3 tilt stands (page 11)

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Connecting a power source
You can use either an AC adapter or a rechargeable battery pack as a power source.
Using the AC adapter
To use the AC adapter, proceed as follows:
1Plug the cable attached to the AC adapter (1) into the DC In connector (2) on the computer.
2Plug one end of the power cord (3) into the AC adapter.
3Plug the other end of the power cord into an AC outlet.
✍Use your notebook only with the supplied AC adapter.
To disconnect your notebook completely from mains voltage, unplug the AC adapter.
Make sure that the socket outlet is easily accessible.

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Using the battery pack
You can use one or two batteries as a source of power. You can insert the second battery pack into the multi-
purpose bay on the right side of the computer. Additional battery packs are available as a separate option.
The battery pack supplied with your computer is not fully charged at the time of purchase.
Inserting the battery pack
To insert the battery pack, proceed as follows:
1Open the cover of the battery bay.
2Insert the battery pack with the label facing down into the battery bay on the left side of the computer.
3Close the cover of the battery bay until it clicks.
✍When the computer is directly connected to AC power and has a battery pack inserted in the battery bay, it uses power from the AC outlet.

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Charging the battery pack
To charge the battery pack, proceed as follows:
1Connect the AC adapter to the computer.
2Insert the battery pack.
The computer automatically charges the battery (1) (the battery indicator (2) light flashes in a double
blink pattern as the battery charges). When the battery is 85% full, the battery indicator light turns off.
This process takes approximately one hour for the PCG-FX203/PCG-FX203K when the system is off. If the
system is on, it takes one and a half hour. To charge the battery completely, continue charging for an
additional hour.
There are two battery indicator lights on the computer:
1 indicates the status of the battery pack in the battery bay on the left side of the computer.
2 indicates the status of the battery pack in the multi-purpose bay on the right side of the computer.
✍When the battery is running out of power, both the battery and power indicators blink.
Keep the battery pack in the computer while it is directly connected to AC power. The battery pack continues to charge while you are using the
computer.
battery indicator
light status
meaning
on The computer is using battery power.
single blink The battery is running out of power.
double blink The battery is charging.
off The computer is using AC power.