Sony MX - Manual

Unpacking Your Computer Computer and basic accessories P a g e 5

Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder accessories P a g e 6

Manuals  VAIO ® MX Com puter QuickStart — Contains information on unpacking and setting up your computer, supplementary updates, and software information.  VAIO ® MX Com puter User Guide — Contains features and specifications of your computer. It also includes information on the applications inclu...

Recovery CDs  System Recovery CD(s) — Enables you to restore the software that shipped with your computer if they become corrupted or are erased. System Recovery CDs can only be used to restore the hard disk of the Sony computer youpurchased.  Application Recovery CD(s) — Enables you to reinstall ...

Software library The Software Library contains the Microsoft software license agreement and Sony end-user license agreement. Other Packet containing special product offers. P a g e 9

To Choose an Ergonomic Location for Your Computer Before you get started, find the best location for your new computer. Planning your work space  Stable work surface — Use a stable work surface large enough to support the computer and other peripheral equipment.  Ventilation — Leave at least eight...

Locating Controls And Connectors Front Panel Overview The front panel of your VAIO ® MX computer enables access to the optical drive, MiniDisc drive, Memory Stick ® , and PC Card slots. The front panel also provides access to the Universal Serial Bus (USB) and i.LINK ® ports to connect your compatib...

Back Panel Overview The back panel of your computer contains the ports for supplied and optional accessories. The back panel also providesaccess to Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder ports and jacks. The icons on the back panel locate and identify the portsand jacks on your computer. Back panel 1 M...

Connection for a TV coaxial cable (supplied). 16 Line IN jacks (R/L) Connection for an audio device. 17 Line OUT jacks (R/L) Connection for an audio device. 18 Stereo speaker terminals (R/L) Connection for the supplied stereo speakers to the computer. 19 Telephone cable jack Connection for a phone c...

Remote Control Overview The functions of the VAIO ® MX Computer can be controlled using the remote control (supplied). The remote control can control the functions for the computer, FM Tuner, MiniDisc player, Memory Stick ® media slot, Giga Pocket functions, and DVD/CD-ROM player. Remote Control 1 P...

Return button See the Media Bar DVD Player software online Help file for more information. P a g e 2 4

Additional System Capabilities To use the Memory Stick media slot Your VAIO ® MX computer is designed to support the Sony MagicGate Memory Stick ® media. A Memory Stick media is a compact, portable, and versatile data storage media designed for exchanging and sharing digital data with similarlyequip...

Sony Memory Stick media do not support AVI file playback. First copy the AVI file to your hard disk drive and thenplayback the file. Protecting data on Memory Stick media from accidental changes Memory Stick media contain a write-protect tab. The write-protect tab prevents accidental changes to info...

To use PC card slot Your computer has a card bus PC card slot that supports Type I or Type II PC (PCMCIA) cards. You do not need to shutdown your computer when inserting a PC card. For more information, see the instructions supplied with your PC card. Inserting a PC card 1. Insert the PC card into t...

Setting Up Your VAIO Computer Your computer has many new and exciting features. This section contains information on setting up your computer andperipheral devices. Note: Install your equipment so that you can easily reach the power outlet in the event of an emergency. P a g e 3 0

To Set Up Your Computer Your computer may not be equipped with the same hardware features shown in this section. See the Specifications sheetfor your system's configuration. P a g e 3 1

Connecting a display (monitor) 1. Plug the display cable into the Monitor port. 2. If necessary, plug the display cable into the rear of the display. Connecting a display P a g e 3 2

Connecting a DVI (LCD) display 1. Plug the display cable into the DVI monitor port. 2. If necessary, plug the display cable into the rear of the display. Connecting a DVI display Note: Do not attempt to connect a CRT and an LCD display to your computer at the same time. Your VAIO ® MX computer does ...

Connecting the stereo speakers Your computer system is supplied with speaker wires (2) to connect the stereo speakers to the terminals on the systemunit. At the ends of each speaker wire are two wire leads, one with black-line color-coding to identify the propercompatibility with the speaker termina...

Connecting the keyboard and mouse 1. Plug the keyboard cable into the Keyboard port on the back of the computer. 2. Plug the mouse cable into the Mouse port. Connecting the keyboard and mouse P a g e 3 6

Connecting the phone and modem cables 1. Unplug your phone's cable from the wall jack, and plug it into the Telephone jack on the computer. 2. Plug the modem cable (supplied) into the Line jack on the computer, and then plug the other end of the cableinto the wall jack. Connecting the phone and mode...

Connecting the power cords 1. Plug the power cord into the back of the computer. 2. Plug both the display and power cords into a grounded AC wall outlet or a power strip. Connecting the power cords Note: When you plug the AC power cord into the wall outlet, the power indicators on the computer may l...

To Turn On Your Computer 1. Press the power switch on the display to turn on the power. 2. Press the power switch on the computer to turn on the power. Note: When you start your system for the first time, your computer may detect new equipment and display a dialogbox that asks you to restart your co...

To Register Your Computer Take advantage of the Sony commitment to quality customer support and receive these benefits by registering yourcomputer:  Sony Customer Support — Communicate with a Support Representative to troubleshoot problems you may be having with your computer.  Limited warranty — ...

To Set Up Your Dial-up Connection The first time you turn your computer on, follow these steps to set up your dial-up connection: 1. Click Start from the Windows taskbar and select All Programs. 2. Point to Accessories, point to Communications, and then click New Connection Wizard. The Location Info...

4. Click to select your dialing location and then click OK. The New Connection Wizard appears. New Connection Wizard window 5. Follow the on-screen instructions to finish setting up your dial-up connection. P a g e 4 2

To Use the Stand By Mode When you plan to stop using your computer for a short period of time, you can put it in Stand By mode instead of turning itoff completely. Putting the computer in Stand By mode saves energy and allows a quick return to normal computer use. Before you set your computer in Sta...

To Use the System Hibernate Mode System hibernate mode enables your computer to store everything in its memory to the hard disk drive before shuttingdown. When you bring the system out of hibernation mode, it returns to the previous state. P a g e 4 6

Initiating Hibernate mode You can set your computer to automatically enter hibernate mode after a certain time period. To set the computer to enter Hibernate mode 1. Click Start in the Windows taskbar, click Control Panel, then select the category, Performance and Maintenance. The Performance and Ma...

To Shut Down Your Computer When you are ready to turn off your computer for an extended period of time, use this procedure. Caution: To avoid loss of data, do not use the Power switch to turn off the computer. Turning off your computer 1. Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then select Turn Off Comp...

VAIO Action Setup VAIO Action Setup manages the settings for your VAIO ® keyboard's Shortcut keys (S keys) and your computer's internal timer. P a g e 4 9

To Use the Shortcut Keys The programmable S Keys are set to perform the following functions:  S1 — Outlook ® Express  S2 — Internet Explorer  S3 — SonicStage Premium  S4 — Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder Changing the settings of the S keys You can reprogram the S keys to launch other applica...

To Set the Internal Timer The VAIO Action Setup utility enables you to set your computer's internal timer to launch certain applications or documentsautomatically. Note: Some software applications take longer than others to launch. It is advisable to confirm in advance the amount of time yourselecte...

To select the timer's launch application 1. Click Start in the Windows taskbar, and select All Programs. 2. Select VAIO Action Setup, then click VAIO Action Setup. Note: You can also double-click the VAIO Action Setup icon, located in the Windows taskbar, to launch VAIO Action Setup. 3. Select the T...

To set up the timer start 1. Double-click . The VAIO Action Setup window appears. 2. Select the Timer tab on the left side of the VAIO Action Setup window. 3. From the Time Setting tab, click Set. 4. Follow the Timer Setup wizard instructions. 5. Click Finish to activate your settings. P a g e 5 3

To Change the Sony Software Window Design You can select from different window designs for your Sony software and create your own personal computingenvironment. P a g e 5 4

Changing the window design 1. Click Start in the Windows taskbar and select the Control Panel. 2. Click Other Control Panel Options. 3. Click UI Design Selector. 4. Click << or >> and select the desired design. 5. Click Apply. 6. The "UI Design Selector" window design changes. Th...

Configuring Your VAIO Computer Hard Disk Drive Partition To maintain optimum system performance, you should defragment your computer's D partition regularly. To improve the performance of Sony audio and video software applications, the hard disk drive on your computer has beenformatted with two part...

Defragmenting your hard disk drive If you encounter frame dropping while recording digital video onto your hard disk drive, defragmentation may benecessary. 1. Deactivate your screen saver and close other open applications, if applicable. 2. Click Start in the Windows Taskbar and select All Programs...

i.LINK (IEEE1394) Compatibility Your VAIO computer may include either 4-pin or 6-pin, or both types, of i.LINK ports. Note: i.LINK is a trademark of Sony used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE1394 connection. The i.LINK connectionmay vary, depending on the software applications, oper...

About The Software On Your Computer Your VAIO ® computer is ready to help you work, play, learn, and communicate as soon as you turn it on. This section provides an overview of the software titles preinstalled on your computer. P a g e 6 1

Overview of Software Applications Note: Your computer may not be supplied with all of the software applications listed, depending on the system configuration youpurchased. Adobe ® Acrobat Reader ® Adobe Systems Inc. Acrobat Reader software allows you to view, navigate, and print electronic documents...

Quicken ® 2002 Intuit Inc. Quicken is the fastest, easiest way to organize your finances. Quicken works just like your checkbook, so it's easy to learnand use. You can even pay your bills online. Quicken manages all of your finances, bank accounts, credit cards, investments,and loans. RealJukebox ® ...

For Answers to Your Software Questions This section provides support information for your computer's preinstalled software applications. Check this support listingto locate information from the Internet, by e-mail, or by telephone. Note: Your computer may not be supplied with all of the software app...

Support for preinstalled software Adobe ® Acrobat Reader ® , Photoshop ® Elements, Premiere ® LE (On selected models) (Adobe Systems Inc.) Web site http://www.adobe.com phone 206-675-6126 (fee-based support) fax 206-628-5737 e-mail [email protected] hours M - F, 6 AM - 5 PM PST America Online ® (Am...

* Support from 8 8 8 - 4 - S O N Y - P C is free of c harge for 9 0 days after the original date of purc has e. WordPerfect ® (Corel Corporation) Web site http://www.corel.com/support/product_specific/wp9.htm phone 613-274-0500 * hours M - F, 8:30 AM - 7:30 PM EST * Support from 6 1 3 - 2 7 4 - 0 5 ...

Sony Service Center For the Sony Service Center nearest you, call 1-888-4-SONY-PC (1-888-476-6972). This service is free of charge for 90 daysafter the original date of purchase. P a g e 7 0

System, Application And Driver Recovery CDs System Recovery CD(s) Sony Electronics Inc. The System Recovery CD utility enables you to restore the operating system and software that shipped with your computerif they become corrupted or are erased. It can be used only to restore the hard disk of the S...

To Use the Application Recovery CD(s) The Application Recovery CD utility enables you to reinstall individual software applications if they become corrupted or areerased. Reinstalling an individual software application may correct a problem that you are experiencing with your computeror specific app...

To Use the Driver Recovery CD The Driver Recovery CD utility enables you to reinstall individual drivers and repair software applications if they becomecorrupted or are erased. You can reinstall an individual driver to correct a problem that you are experiencing with yourcomputer, peripheral hardwar...

Reinstalling device drivers with the Driver Recovery CD 1. Turn on your computer. If your computer is already on, close all applications. 2. When the Windows desktop appears, insert the Driver Recovery CD into the optical disc drive. 3. Click Start in the Windows taskbar and click Control Panel. The...

Troubleshooting This section describes how to solve common problems you may encounter when using your computer. Many problems havesimple solutions, so try these suggestions before you call Sony Customer Support. P a g e 7 9

Topics My com puter does not start.  Check that the computer is plugged into a power source and that it is turned on. Check that the power light is lit onthe front panel of the computer.  Confirm that a disk is not in the floppy disk drive (unless you are using a bootable floppy disk).  Confirm t...

To contact Sony for technical support For further technical assistance, call 1-888-4-SONY-PC (1-888-476-6972) or access the Web site at: http://www.sony.com/pcsupport . P a g e 8 6

Notes on Use The power source  Your computer operates on 100-120 V AC 50/60 Hz only.  Plug all the power cords for your computer and its peripheral equipment into the same AC supply line. AC derivedfrom different supply lines may result in voltage differences that can cause unstable operation or u...

Disposal of the lithium battery Dispose of the lithium battery properly. In some areas, the disposal of lithium batteries in household or business trash maybe prohibited. You can return your unwanted lithium batteries to your nearest Sony Service Center or Factory ServiceCenter. For the Sony Service...

Handling the computer system  Do not place your Sony computer in a location subject to:  Heat sources, such as radiators or air ducts  Direct sunlight  Excessive dust  Mechanical vibration or shock  Strong magnets or speakers that are not magnetically shielded  Ambient temperature of more tha...

Moisture condensation If your computer is brought directly from a cold location to a warm one, moisture may condense inside your computer. Inthis case, allow at least an hour before turning on your computer. If any problem occurs, unplug your computer, and contactyour Sony Service Center. P a g e 9 ...

Upgrading the computer system  The upgrading procedures described in the online manual, assume familiarity with the general terminologyassociated with personal computers and with the safety practices and regulatory compliance required for using andmodifying electronic equipment.  Disconnect the sy...

Handling a CRT display  Do not change the CRT display refresh rate to 85 Hz, as DVD playback and the DVgate software may not functioncorrectly. Sony recommends that you keep your CRT display at the preset, optimal refresh rate (75 Hz).  Do not place the display near a strong magnetic force.  Do n...

Handling an LCD display  Do not leave the display directly facing the sun for a long period of time as it can damage the LCD screen.  Do not scratch the LCD screen or exert pressure on it. This may cause damage to the screen or cause amalfunction.  Using the computer in low temperature conditions...

Using the hard disk drive  Do not place the computer in a location that is subject to vibration or shock.  Do not move the computer during operation.  Do not subject the computer to sudden changes in temperature.  Do not turn off the power while the computer is accessing the hard disk drive. P a...

Handling floppy disks  Do not open the shutter manually and touch the surface of the floppy disk.  Keep floppy disks away from magnets.  Keep floppy disks away from direct sunlight and other heat sources. P a g e 9 6

Handling CD or DVD media  Do not touch the surface of the CD or DVD media.  Do not drop or bend the CD or DVD media.  Do not use adhesive labels to identify the CD or DVD media. The label may come off while the disc is in use in theoptical drive and damage the drive.  Always keep media in a safe...

Handling MiniDisc media  Attach the labels supplied with MiniDisc media, in the designated location.  Do not break open the shutter on the case.  Do not place the media where it will be subject to extreme temperatures, moistures, and dust.  Always keep media in a safe storage or carrying case. P...

Cleaning CD or DVD media  Fingerprints and dust on the surface of a CD or DVD media may cause read errors. Proper care of the disc isessential to maintain its reliability. Do not use solvents such as benzine, as they may cause damage to the disc. Usecommercially available cleaners or anti-static sp...

Cleaning MiniDisc media Clean the MiniDisc case, using a soft, dry cloth. Do not use solvents such as benzine, as they may cause damage to thedisc. Page 100

Protecting MiniDisc media contents Slide open the tab located on the side of the MiniDisc. This protects the media contents from being over-written. Slide thetab closed to resume recording. Page 101

Support Resources Check these sources for answers to your questions about your computer or the preinstalled software: Page 102

Resource listing VAIO ® QuickStart The QuickStart contains information on how to set up your computer quickly and easily. VAIO ® Computer User Guide The User Guide contains information on how to get the most from your computer, find help, and solve common problems. (Note: The User Guide is not avail...

Upgrading And Maintaining Your VAIO MX Computer In the future you may want to increase the functionality of your VAIO ® MX computer. This section describes how to upgrade your computer and perform basic maintenance. For more information on upgrading your Sony computer, see the computer System Refere...

Overview The procedures in this section assume that you are familiar with the general terminology associated with personalcomputers and with the safety practices and regulatory compliance required for using and modifying electronic equipment. Before you upgrade your computer Disconnect the computer ...

To Remove the Side Panel 1. Shut down your computer and turn off all peripheral devices, such as your printer. 2. Unplug your computer and any peripheral devices. 3. Gently place the system unit on its side, as shown in the illustration. 4. Locate the release tabs on the edge of the side panel. Pres...

To Install a PCI Add-on Card Your computer may have one or more open PCI expansion slots, depending on the model configuration. A PCI expansionslot enables you to install add-on cards to expand the functionality of your system. For detailed information on installing add-on cards, see the System Refe...

To Install Memory The preinstalled memory configuration may vary, depending on the computer you purchased. All memory slots in yoursystem may have memory modules already installed. See the Specifications sheet for information about the amount ofmemory installed in your computer. For memory upgrades,...

 Slide the power supply unit up until it clears the chassis.  Rotate the power supply to an upside down position and rest it on top of the chassis. 5. Handle the DIMM only by the edges, and remove it from its anti-static package. 6. Locate the notches on the bottom edge of the DIMM. 7. Align the m...

To Replace the Lithium Battery The lithium battery starts to weaken after several years and the system settings, such as the date and time stored inCMOS RAM, may become inaccurate. Replace the lithium battery when this occurs. For detailed information on replacing thelithium battery, see the System ...

To Install an Additional Hard Disk Drive Your computer comes with an available internal bay to hold a second standard 3½-inch hard disk drive. Some models, suchas Configure-to-order (CTO) systems, may already have a second hard disk drive installed. Your system can supportATA-33, ATA-66, or ATA-100 ...

9. Secure the drive to the drive holder with screws, using the two holes on each side of the drive holder. Note: Your new hard disk drive is supplied with the necessary screws. Do not overtighten the screws when securingthe drive to the drive holder. 10. Align the drive holder with the slots on the ...

To Replace the Side Panel 1. Carefully align the tabs on the side panel to the chassis frame. The side panel should lie flat against the chassis,with approximately 3/8 inch of clearance between the front edge of the side panel and the front of the chassis. 2. Press the side panel firmly against the ...