Sony VAIO PCG-GRS515M Installation instructions manual

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Sony Notebook User Guide
PCG-GRS515SP
PCG-GRS515M

Sony Notebook 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.
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 authorised by Macrovision Corporation, and is intended for home and other limited viewing uses only unless
otherwise authorised by Macrovision Corporation. Reverse engineering or disassembly 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 licence agreement.
Trademarks
Sony, DigitalPrint, DVgate, i.LINK, Jog Dial Navigator, PowerPanel, MovieShaker, Smart Capture, Sony Notebook Setup, UI Design
Selector, VAIO Edit Components, Sony Style Imaging, SonicStage, Memory Stick and the Memory Stick logo, VAIO and the VAIO logo
are trademarks of Sony Corporation. 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.
WinDVD is a trademark of InterVideo, Inc.
i.LINK is a trademark of Sony used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE1394-connection.
Adobe, Adobe Premiere, Adobe Photoshop Elements and Adobe Acrobat Reader are trademarks of Adobe Systems Incorporated.

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QuickTime and the QuickTime logo are trademarks used under licence. 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.
PowerPanel is a trademark of Phoenix Technologies Ltd.
Symantec Norton 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.
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.

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Safety information
Owner's record
The serial number and model number are located on the bottom of your Sony notebook. Record the serial number and the model
number in the spaces provided here. Refer to the model number and serial number if you call VAIO-Link.
Serial number: ________________________
Model number (model name in brackets): PCG-8E1M (PCG-GRS515SP) / PCG-8E2M (PCG-GRS515M)
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 Centre.
❑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

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❑Speakers
❑Magnets
❑Magnetic bracelets.
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.
❑Use your notebook only with the supplied AC adapter. To disconnect your notebook completely from
mains voltage, unplug the AC adapter.
❑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.
Optical disc drive
❑Misuse of the optical instruments supplied with your notebook can 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 optical disc drive is open: avoid direct exposure to the
laser beam.

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Regulatory information
This product conforms to the following 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 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).
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 authorised Sony technicians. Improper repairs and use can create safety hazards.
Before activating the built-in modem, please read the Modem Regulations.
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.
❑Dispose of used batteries promptly and properly.
❑Keep away from children.
❑In some areas the disposal of lithium ion batteries in household or business waste may be prohibited.
❑Use the public collection system.
Disposing of internal memory backup battery
❑Your notebook is equipped with an internal memory backup battery that should not have to be replaced
during the lifetime of the product. For changing this battery, please contact VAIO-Link.
❑Danger of explosion if the battery is incorrectly replaced.
❑Dispose of properly at end-of-life.
❑In some areas the disposal of lithium ion and other 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 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-RW/DVD-ROM drive 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 audio and video CDs.
❑Interconnectivity – Your computer has Ethernet and i.LINK™ functionalities. i.LINK™ is a bi-directional
digital interface for exchanging data.
❑Windows®- Your system includes the Microsoft Windows®XP Professional or Microsoft Windows®XP
Home Edition operating system*.
❑Communications - Access popular online services, send and receive e-mails, browse the Internet, and
more.
❑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.
* Depending on your model. See the online Specifications document.

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Documentation pack
Your Documentation Pack contains printed information and online user guides on a Documentation
CD-ROM.
Printed documentation
The printed part of your documentation contains:
❑A Getting Started brochure, where you will find a brief description of the items in your box, some
specifications of your notebook, and how to setup your notebook;
❑A Troubleshooting Guide, where you will find all the basic information you need to start using your
notebook, as well as troubleshooting and VAIO-Link information;
❑You r Sony Guarantee conditions;
❑A Safety Regulations leaflet;
❑A Modem Regulations leaflet.
Online documentation
The Documentation CD-ROM contains the following references:
1The Hardware Guide:
❑Using Your Sony Notebook 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 notebook.
❑Glossary refers to terms used in this manual.

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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.
❑Using Video software explains how to use Sony video software: DVgate, MovieShaker and Smart
Capture.
❑Managing audio files with SonicStage explains 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 computer explains how to set your system and power management.
❑Installing and updating applications explains how to install, run or uninstall a software
application.
❑Managing drivers explains 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.
3Refer to the Specifications online document for details on your computer 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®.
7Go to http://www.club-vaio.sony-europe.com to find online tutorials about your favourite VAIO
software.

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Your notebook and its accessories
The following hardware items are in the box:
1 main unit 7 phone cable
2 product recovery CD-ROMs 8 power cord
3 documentation pack 9 CD-RW/DVD-ROM
4 AC adapter 10 phone plug (country-specific)
5 rechargeable battery pack
6 weight saver

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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.
❑Positioning 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 – Use the tilt stands (1) to place the computer at an angle that allows comfortable 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
✍Do not cover the ventilation slot when the computer is on.
1 power button (page 26)
2 ventilation slot (page 11)
3batterybay (page 19)

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Left
1 i.LINK™ (IEEE1394) S400 port (page 83)
2 Memory Stick™ slot (page 49)
3 PC Card slots (page 46)
4 multipurpose bay (for weight saver or
second battery with weight saver or
removable CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive)
(page 19)
S400

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Front
1 LCD screen (page 108) 9 battery 1 and 2 indicators (page 32)
2 speakers (page 75) 10 hard disk drive indicator (page 32)
3 keyboard (page 28) 11 Memory Stick™ indicator (page 32)
4 touchpad (page 33) 12 Num Lock indicator (page 32)
5 left/right buttons (page 33) 13 Caps Lock indicator (page 32)
6JogDial™ (page 34) 14 Scroll Lock indicator (page 32)
7 Back button for Jog Dial™ (page 34) 15 power button (page 26)
8 power indicator (page 32)

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Back
✍There is a ventilationslot locatedon the left side of
the back panel. Do not cover the ventilation slot when
the computer is on.
1 ventilation slot (page 11)
2 DC In (page 18)
3 printer connector (page 81)
4 monitor/VGA
connector
(page 68)
5 AV Out connector (page 71)
6 Ethernet connector
(network)
(page 86)
72USBports (page 78)
8 modem connector (page 58)
9 microphone connector (page 76)
10 headphone connector
for headphone or
external speakers
(page 75)
11 USB port (page 78)

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Bottom
1 port replicator connector cover (page 65)
2 memory module cover (page 103)
3 multi-purpose bay release lever (page 19)
4 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 left 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 up into the battery bay on the right 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.