Sony Vaio PCG-GRX416SP User manual

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Sony notebook user guide
PCG-GRX416SP

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 authorized by Macrovision Corporation, and is intended for home and other limited viewing uses only unless
otherwise authorized 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 license agreement.
Trademarks
Sony, DigitalPrint, DVgate, i.LINK, Jog Dial, PictureGear, PictureToy, PowerPanel, MovieShaker, Smart Capture, SonicStage, Sony
Notebook Setup, UI Design Selector, VisualFlow, Memory Stick, the Memory Stick logo, VAIO and the VAIO logo are trademarks of Sony
Corporation. The Windows and Windows XP Professional logo are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
i.LINK is a trademark of Sony used to designate that a product contains an IEEE1394-connection.
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.

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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-8A7M (PCG-GRX416SP)
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:

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 TV sets
 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 optical instruments 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 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.
 Danger of explosion if 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.
 Your notebook is equipped with an internal backup memory battery. For information on 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.
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.
 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 MagicGate Memory Stick™, Ethernet and i.LINK™
functionalities. Memory Stick™is Sony’s universal storage medium. i.LINK™is a bi-directional digital
interface for exchanging data.
 Windows®- Your system includes the Microsoft Windows®XP Home 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.

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Documentation pack
Your Documentation Pack contains paper and online user guides on your computer's hard drive.
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 Customer Guide, where you will find all the basic information you need to start using your notebook,
as well as troubleshooting and VAIO-Link information;
 Yo u r Sony Guarantee conditions;
 A Safety Regulations flyer;
 A Modem Regulations flyer.
Online documentation
1The Hardware Guide:
 Using your 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 Imaging software gives you an idea what you can do with still images: creating a collection,
a slide show, a screen saver or a photo album.
 Customizing your notebook 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, 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®.
7Go to http://www.club-vaio.sony-europe.com to find online tutorials about your favorite VAIO software.

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Your notebook and its accessories
The following hardware items* are in the box:
* See the Specifications online document.
1 Main unit 6 Weight saver
2 Product recovery CD-ROMs 7 Phone cable
3 Documentation pack 8 Power cord
4 AC adapter 9 CD-RW/DVD-ROM
5 Rechargeable battery pack

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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 eyestrain 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.

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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 (page 14)
 Connecting a power source (page 19)
 Starting your notebook (page 27)
 Shutting down your notebook (page 28)
 Using the keyboard (page 29)
 Using the touchpad (page 34)
 Using the Jog Dial™(page 35)
 Using PC Cards (page 38)
 Using Memory Stick™(page 41)
 Using the modem (page 49)
 Using power saving modes (page 50)
 Using the CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive (page 52)
 Using the weight saver (page 56)

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Locating controls and connectors
Right
 Do not cover the ventilation slot when the computer is on.
1 Battery bay (page 20)
2 Hard disk drive /
3 Ventilation slot /
4 Headphone connector (page 67)
5 Microphone connector (page 68)
6USBport (page 70)

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Left
1MemoryStick™slot (page 41)
2USBport (page 70)
3 i.LINK™(IEEE1394) S400 port (page 76)
4 PC Card slots (page 38)
5 Multi-purpose bay (for weight
saver or second battery with
weight saver or removable
CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive)
(page 56)
(page 52)
(page 23)

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Front
1 Memory Stick™indicator (page 32)
2 Num Lock indicator (page 32)
3 Caps Lock indicator (page 32)
4 Scroll Lock indicator (page 32)
5 Power indicator (page 32)
6 Battery 1 indicator (page 32)
7 Battery 2 indicator (page 32)
8 Hard disk drive indicator (page 32)
9 LCD screen (page 33)
10 Keyboard (page 33)
11 Speakers (page 33)
12 Left/right buttons (page 34)
13 Touchpad (page 34)
14 Jog Dial™(page 35)
15 Back button for Jog Dial™(page 35)
16 Power button (page 27)

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Back
 There is a ventilation slot located on the left side of the back panel. Do not cover the ventilation slot when the computer is on.
1 Ventilation slot / 5 Printer connector (page 73)
2DCIn (page 19) 6USBport (page 70)
3 Ethernet connector (network) (page 78) 7 AV Out connector (page 64)
4 Monitor/VGA connector (page 61) 8 Modem connector (page 49)

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Bottom
1 Port replicator connector cover (page 58)
2 Memory module cover (page 95)
3 Multi-purpose bay release lever (page 56)

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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.
Some models may be supplied with 2 power cords, respectively for a UK and for a Continental power outlet. In this case, please make sure to use the
power cord, which corresponds to the type of your power outlet.