Sony Vaio PCG-K315B Installation instructions

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Hardware Guide
PCG-K series

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Notice
© 2004 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 authorized by Macrovision, and is intended for home and other limited
viewing uses only unless otherwise authorized 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.
Owner's record
The serial number, model number and product code are located on the bottom of your Sony computer. Record the numbers and refer
to them if you call VAIO-Link. See also the printed Specifications sheet.

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Safety Information
General
❑Risk of explosion if battery is replaced by an incorrect type. Dispose of used batteries according to the instructions.
❑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 computer 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.
❑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.
❑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.
❑When transporting the computer, make sure that foreign objects do not cause a malfunction when using the battery pack, the
connector covers and/or the supplied slot if there is any.

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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.
❑Take care when installing or modifying telephone lines.
❑Use your computer only with the supplied AC adapter. To disconnect your computer completely from mains voltage, unplug the
AC adapter.
❑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.

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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).
In case your model is not equipped with Wireless LAN
In case your model is equipped with Wireless LAN
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 above.
A list of matching documents will 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 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.

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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.
In case your model is equipped with Wireless LAN, please read the Wireless LAN Regulations before activating the Wireless LAN
functionality. The Wireless LAN functionality which is incorporated into this unit has passed Wi-Fi certification, and complies with the
interoperability specifications established by WECA (Wireless Ethernet Compatibility Alliance).
Depending on the country, usage of the Wireless LAN functionality may be restricted. For country-specific details, please refer to the
Wireless LAN Regulations.

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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 computer 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
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.
Here are the main features you can enjoy:
❑Exceptional performance.
❑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/DVDs.
❑Interconnectivity – Your computer has Ethernet, USB 2.0 (High-speed/Full-speed/Low-speed) and i.LINK functionalities. i.LINK
is a bidirectional digital interface for exchanging data. With the Memory Stick you can easily exchange and share digital data with
compatible products.
❑Wireless technology – Thanks to the Wireless LAN (IEEE 802.11b/g)* technology, you can communicate freely, without cables
or wires.
❑Windows – Your system includes Microsoft's Windows Home Edition with Service Pack 2 operating system.
❑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, please try to solve the problem by reading this guide, the printed Guide to Troubleshooting and
Recovering your VAIO System, or the manuals and help files for the peripherals or software.

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Documentation pack
Your Documentation Pack contains printed information and user guides to read on your computer.
The user guides are collected under My Documentation, which can be shown as follows:
1Go to Start and click the My Info Centre icon* .
2From My Home, select your country and language from the drop-down boxes.
3From the pictures at the top of the window click My Documentation .
4Select the guide you want to read.
* The My Info Centre icon is only visible after you have performed the Prepare your VAIO setup.
Guides are provided in PDF format, which you can easily browse through and print out.
The My Info Centre portal is a perfect starting point to using your VAIO - a comprehensive collection of everything you need to get
the most from your PC.
✍
You can manually browse to the user guides by going to My Computer > VAIO (C:) (your C drive) > My Documentation > Documentation and opening the folder
for your language.
You may have a separate disc for the documentation of bundled accessories.

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Printed documentation
❑Getting Started brochure, where you will find a brief description of the items in your box, and how to setup your computer.
❑A Specifications sheet, containing a table of specifications, a list of bundled software, an overview of all connectors and, on the
reverse side, a guide to setting up your VAIO.
❑A Guide to Troubleshooting and Recovering your VAIO System, where you will find solutions to common problems, an
explanation of how to recover your computer's system if you need to, and VAIO-Link information.
❑Yo u r Sony Guarantee conditions;
❑Booklets containing the following information: Safety Regulations, Modem Regulations, Wireless LAN Regulations,
Bluetooth Regulations** and Wireless Product Regulations Guide**.
** Depending on your model. Read the printed Specifications document for more information.
Non-printed documentation
My Documentation contains the following 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.
My Documentation also gives you:
❑Help files about reading the guides.
❑Important information about your computer, in the form of notices and announcements.

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In My Info Centre you can also find:
Further sources
1Go to Start > Help and Support for VAIO support information as well as tips and tricks.
2Consult the Online Help files of the software you are using for detailed information on features and troubleshooting.
3Go to http://www.club-vaio.com to find online tutorials about your favourite VAIO software.
My Software
Feeling creative? Click on this icon for an overview of your software and check out our upgrade options.
My VAIO essentials
Want to expand the capabilities of your VAIO? Click on this icon and have a look at your compatible accessories.
My Websites
Click on this icon and check out our most popular websites.
My ISP
Click on this icon to find out about the preferred offerings from our partners and access the world of the internet.

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Welcome
Ergonomic considerations
You will be using your computer 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.
❑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.

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❑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 VAIO computer
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.
❑Connecting a power source (page 16)
❑Setting up your computer with Sony Notebook Setup (page 21)
❑Shutting down your computer safely (page 22)
❑Using the keyboard (page 23)
❑Using the touchpad (page 28)
❑Using the disc drive (page 29)
❑Using PC Cards (page 35)
❑Using the Memory Stick (page 39)
❑Using the modem (page 42)
❑Using Wireless LAN (WLAN) (page 45)
❑Using the power saving modes (page 55)
❑Managing power with VAIO Power Management (page 58)

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Using your VAIO computer
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 one end of the power cord (1) into the AC adapter.
2Plug the other end of the power cord into an AC outlet (2).
3Plug the cable attached to the AC adapter (3) into the DC In connector (4) on the computer.
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Use your computer only with the supplied AC adapter.
To disconnect your computer completely from mains voltage, unplug the AC adapter.
Make sure that the socket outlet is easily accessible.
If you do not use the AC adapter for a long period of time, put your computer into Hibernate mode. This power saving mode saves you the time of shutting down
in the normal way.

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Using your VAIO computer
Using the battery pack
The battery pack supplied with your computer is not fully charged at the time of purchase.
Certain rechargeable batteries do not meet Sony quality and safety standards. For safety reasons, this notebook functions best with
Sony batteries designed for this model. When inserting another kind of battery, the battery may not be charged and the notebook will
not function.
A tool is installed on your machine that checks if you use a genuine Sony battery designed for this model. When another kind of battery
is detected and your notebook:
1. is off or in Hibernate mode: your computer does not start and the battery does not charge. Replace the battery with a genuine Sony
battery.
2. is on: you receive the following pop-up message: This battery cannot be used with your computer. Please use only genuine
Sony batteries compatible with this computer. Click "OK" to put your computer into Hibernate mode. When your computer
hibernates, remove the battery, and insert a genuine Sony battery. Click OK. Your computer enters Hibernate mode. Replace
the battery with a genuine Sony battery.

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Using your VAIO computer
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 of the computer.
3Close the cover of the battery bay until it clicks.
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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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Using your VAIO computer
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 (the battery indicator light flashes in a double blink pattern as the battery
charges).
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.

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Using your VAIO computer
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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.
If the battery level falls below 10%, you should either attach the AC adapter to recharge the battery or shut down your computer and insert a fully charged battery.
The battery pack supplied with your computer is a lithium ion battery and can be recharged any time. Charging a partially discharged battery does not affect battery
life.
The battery indicator light is on while you use the battery pack as a power source. When the battery life is nearly depleted, both the battery and power indicators
start flashing.
For some software applications and some peripheral devices, your computer may not enter Hibernate mode even when battery life is low. To avoid loss of data
when using battery power, you should save your data frequently and manually activate a power management mode, such as Standby or Hibernate. If the battery
wears out when your computer enters Standby mode, you will lose any unsaved data. Going back to the previous work state is impossible. To avoid loss of data,
you should save your data frequently.
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.
Removing the battery pack
To remove the battery pack, proceed as follows:
1Turn off the computer.
2Open the cover of the battery bay.
3Pull out the battery pack.
4Close the cover of the battery bay.
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You may lose data if you remove the battery pack while the computer is on and not connected to the AC adapter or if you remove the battery while the computer
is in Standby mode.