User Guide

Personal Computer

VG X - T P s e r i e s

Contents
Before Use......5 Notice......6 Documentation.....7 Getting Started......11 Locating Controls and Ports.....12 About the Indicator Lights.....18 Setting Up Your Computer.....19 Shutting Down Your Computer Safely....30 Using Your VAIO Computer.....31 Using the Keyboard.....32 Using the Touch Pad.....36 Using the Optical Disc Drive....37 Using the TV Function.....47 Using the Memory Stick Media.....58 Using Other Memory Cards.....64 Using the Internet.....68 Using Wireless LAN (WLAN).....69
Using Peripheral Devices.....78 Selecting Display Modes.....79 Using the Multiple Monitors Function....80 Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) Device....82 Connecting a Printer.....85 Connecting an i.LINK Device.....86 Connecting to a Network (LAN)....88 Customizing Your VAIO Computer.....90 Setting the Password.....91 Setting Up Your Computer with VAIO Control Center...96 Using the Power Saving Mode.....97 Upgrading Your VAIO Computer....100 Adding and Removing Memory.....101 Precautions......108 On Using the Power Source....109 On Handling Your Computer....110 On Handling Floppy Disks.....113 On Handling Discs.....114 On Using Headphones.....115 On Handling Memory Stick Media....116 On Handling the Hard Disk....117 On Updating Your Computer.....118
Troubleshooting.....119 Computer......120 System Security.....126 Networking......127 Optical Discs.....130 Display.....134 Printing.....137 Microphone.....138 Speakers.....139 Keyboard.....141 Touch Pad.....142 Floppy Disks.....143 Audio/Video.....144 Memory Stick Media....147 Peripherals......148 Support Options.....149 Sony Support Information.....150 e-Support......151 Trademarks......153

Before Use

Congratulations on your purchase of this Sony VAIO computer, and welcome to the on-screen User Guide. Sony has combined leading-edge technology in audio, video, computing, and communications to provide state-of-the-art personal computing experience.
! External views illustrated in this manual may look slightly different from those of your computer.

Notice

2008 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. 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 license agreement.

Documentation

Your documentation includes printed information and user guides to read on your VAIO computer.

Printed Documentation

Quick Start Guide Describes the process from unpacking to starting up your VAIO. Troubleshooting and Recovery Guide Contains solutions to common problems and computer malfunctions, an explanation of how to make a backup copy of your data and recover your computer system, and sources of support information. Regulations, Guarantee, EULA and Service Support Contains Sony guarantee conditions, safety / regulations, modem regulations, wireless LAN regulations, wireless WAN regulations, Bluetooth regulations, end user software license agreement, and Sony support services information.
Non-printed Documentation
User Guide (this manual) Explains features of your computer. It also includes information about the software programs included with your computer, as well as information on solving common problems. User Guide is provided in the PDF format, which you can easily browse through and print out. To view this on-screen guide: 3 Double-click the VAIO User Guide icon on the desktop. Open the folder for your language. Select the guide you want to read.
You can manually browse to the user guides by going to Computer > VAIO (C:) (your C drive) > Documentation > Documentation and opening the folder for your language. To go to Web sites described in this manual by clicking their respective URLs beginning with http://, your computer must be connected to the Internet.
Specifications The online specifications describe the hardware and software configurations of your VAIO computer. To view the online specifications: Connect to the Internet. Go to the Sony online support Web site at http://www.vaio-link.com.

! Do not leave the removed rear cover on the floor. Stepping on it may hurt your foot.

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Connecting the Wireless Keyboard
A wireless keyboard and four AA alkaline batteries for use in the keyboard are supplied with your computer. Before attempting to use the wireless keyboard, you must install the batteries and establish communication between the computer and the keyboard.
If you find your keyboard not working, for example after replacement of the keyboard batteries, try the following steps for reconnection.
To connect the wireless keyboard
! To connect the wireless keyboard, it must be located within a range of 30 cm to 1 m from the computer.
Turn over the wireless keyboard. Press the button (1) on the battery compartment cover and slide and lift the cover in the direction of the arrow to remove the cover.

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Insert the supplied four AA batteries into the battery compartment as illustrated below:
Turn on the computer. Slide the power switch (2) on the keyboard to the ON position. Press the CONNECT button (3) on the front of the computer. Press the CONNECT button (4) on the bottom of the keyboard. The connect indicator turns on in the LCD window on the keyboard when connection is established between the computer and the keyboard. If not, repeat the procedure.
! Steps 6 and 7 must be completed within 10 seconds of each other.
If the wireless keyboard is left unused for 20 minutes or longer, the connect indicator will turn off. This could indicate that the connection between your computer and the keyboard is lost. Press the Fn key to check that the connect indicator turns on before using the keyboard.

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You can check the battery indicator (
) in the LCD window on the wireless keyboard for its battery power level.
If the wireless keyboard does not operate properly, the batteries may need to be replaced. If the wireless keyboard is not being used for an extended period of time, remove the batteries to avoid possible damage from battery leakage.

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Shutting Down Your Computer Safely
To avoid losing unsaved data, be sure to shut down your computer properly, as described below.
To shut down your computer

To keep moving the pointer or scrolling, slide and hold your finger at the edge of the touch pad.
! If pointer movement or scrolling continues against your intention, your fingertip may have reached an edge of the touch pad. In such a case, take your finger off the touch pad. It is recommended that you put your finger on the touch pad around its center to start an operation.

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Using the Optical Disc Drive
Your computer is equipped with an optical disc drive.

To insert a disc

3 Turn on the computer. Push in the optical disc drive tray with your fingertip to eject it. Grasp the tray and gently pull it out.

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Place a disc in the middle of the tray with the label side facing upward; and gently push it until the disc clicks into place while holding the bottom of the tray with the other hand.
! When the optical disc drive tray is out, be sure not to exert pressure on the tray as it may damage the tray or the disc drive.
Close the tray by pushing it in gently.
! Do not remove the optical disc when your computer is in Sleep mode. Doing so may cause the computer to malfunction.
Before removing the optical disc, make sure that the optical disc drive indicator light is off.

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Reading and Writing Optical Discs
Your computer plays and records CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray Disc media, depending on the model you purchased. Check your specifications for the type of optical disc drive installed on your model. Use the table below to see which types of media your optical disc drive supports.

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PR: playable and recordable P: playable but not recordable : not playable or recordable CDROM DVDRW/ R DL/RAM Blu-ray Disc Blu-ray Disc Combo

*1 *2 *3 *4

Video CD P P P

Music CD P P P

CD Extra P P P

CD-R/ RW PR PR*8 PR*8

DVDROM P P P

DVDVideo P P P

BDROM P P
DVD-R/ DVD+R/ DVD+R DVD-R RW RW DL DL PR*1 *2 PR*1 *2 PR*1 *2 PR PR PR PR*5 PR*5 PR*5 PR*6 PR*6 PR*6
DVDRAM PR*3 *4 PR*3 *4 PR*3 *4
BD-R*9/ RE*10 PR*7 *11 P*11
Supports writing data to DVD-R discs compliant with DVD-R for General Version 2.0/2.1. Supports writing data to DVD-RW discs compliant with DVD-RW Version 1.1/1.2. The DVDRW/RAM disc drive on your computer does not support the DVD-RAM cartridge. Use non-cartridge discs or discs with a removable cartridge. Writing data to single-sided DVD-RAM discs (2.6 GB) compliant with DVD-RAM Version 1.0 is not supported. DVD-RAM Version 2.2/12X-SPEED DVD-RAM Revision 5.0 disc is not supported. Writing data to DVD+R DL (Double Layer) discs is available only on discs supporting DVD+R DL (Double Layer) recording. Writing data to DVD-R DL (Dual Layer) discs is available only on discs supporting DVD-R DL (Dual Layer) recording. Supports writing data to BD-R Version 1.1 discs (single-layer discs with the capacity of 25 GB, dual-layer discs with the capacity of 50 GB) and BD-RE Version 2.1 discs (single-layer discs with the capacity of 25 GB, dual-layer discs with the capacity of 50 GB). Writing data to Ultra Speed CD-RW discs is not supported on models with the Blu-ray Disc drive. BD-R stands for Blu-ray Disc-Recordable in Version 1.1 format. BD-RE stands for Blu-ray Disc-Rewritable in Version 2.1 format. The Blu-ray Disc drive on your computer does not support BD-RE Disc media in Version 1.0 format and Blu-ray Disc media with a cartridge.

For instructions on how to use the software, see the help file on your DVD burning software.

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Playing Blu-ray Disc Media
! The Blu-ray Disc playback function is available on selected models only. See the online specifications to find out the type of your optical disc drive, and then Reading and Writing Optical Discs (page 39) to find out about the supported disc media.
To play a Blu-ray Disc media
3 Close all running software applications. Insert a Blu-ray Disc media into the optical disc drive. If nothing appears on the desktop, then click Start, All Programs, and the desired Blu-ray Disc software to play the disc.
For instructions on how to use the software, see the help file on your software.

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Using the TV Function
Your computer has one or two TV tuner boards installed along with the Microsoft Windows Vista Home Premium operating system which includes Windows Media Center that enables TV program viewing, recording, and playback. See the online specifications to find out about your TV tuner board configuration. The hybrid TV tuner supports the following broadcasts: Analog cable and terrestrial TV: Systems: B/G/I/D/K/L/L' Color systems: PAL and SECAM Frequency band: 48.25 MHz - 855.25 MHz Digital terrestrial TV (DVB-T): System: DVB-T Video system: MPEG2 Frequency band: 48.25 MHz - 855.25 MHz
! Any functions related to digital terrestrial television (DVB-T) will only work in countries or areas where DVB-T MPEG2 digital terrestrial TV signals are broadcasted. Make sure you can receive a DVB-T MPEG2 signal where you live.

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To connect your computer to land-based (terrestrial) or cable TV services
! The appearance of the antenna/cable-TV cable and the VHF/UHF input port may vary in some countries or areas.
Connect one end of an antenna/cable-TV cable (supplied) (1) to the VHF/UHF input port (3)on the computer. Connect the other end of the cable to your TV wall outlet/cable service access (2).

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Using the Remote Commander
A remote commander is supplied with your computer for using a wide variety of AV related software applications, including Media Center.

On models with two DVB-T TV tuner boards, you can record up to two channels at the same time.

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Controlling your computer and BRAVIA TV ("BRAVIA" Sync)
If you have a Sony BRAVIA TV with the Control for HDMI function, connecting your computer and BRAVIA TV with an HDMI cable makes additional control features available with the computer's remote commander and the BRAVIA remote control.
Enabling the Control for HDMI function
To use additional control features, you need to enable the Control for HDMI function first.
To enable the Control for HDMI function
Click Start, All Programs, and VAIO Control Center. Click Control for HDMI. Select the Control for HDMI check box. Click OK.
Turning off the BRAVIA TV with its remote control will also turn off your computer. To disable this feature, cancel the VAIO power synchronize check box after step 3.

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Using the computer's remote commander to simultaneously turn on the computer and the BRAVIA TV (One-Touch Play)
When your computer and BRAVIA are off, you can press one of the following buttons on the computer's remote commander to turn both on and start Windows.
A Sleep button B Start button

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You can press the sleep button on your wireless keyboard or the power button on the computer to turn on both your computer and BRAVIA. When your computer is in Sleep mode, you can press any key on your keyboard to turn on your BRAVIA.
! In case you have unplugged and re-plugged the HDMI cable, make sure that your computer and BRAVIA are properly connected by turning on the computer with the standard procedure before using the One-Touch Play feature.
When your BRAVIA is in the double-view mode, using the One-Touch Play feature may place the BRAVIA into the single-view mode. You cannot turn on your BRAVIA with the computers remote commander if the main power of the BRAVIA has been turned off.
Using the BRAVIA remote control for Windows Media Center features
You can use the remote control supplied with your BRAVIA TV for a wide variety of Windows Media Center features, including TV viewing and optical disc operations. To start Windows Media Center, press the SYNC MENU button on the remote control.

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Controlling TV volume with the supplied remote commander
You can change the volume on your TV with the supplied remote commander by changing the remote commander's signal setting to match with the one used by your TV manufacturer. Press and hold the OK button and press alphanumeric buttons to enter your TV manufacturer code. For example, press and hold the OK button and press the 0 and 2 buttons consecutively to enter the manufacturer code for Sony: Sony (02).

To insert a Memory Stick media
Slide open the front panel door with your fingertip. Locate the Memory Stick slot (page 14). Hold the Memory Stick media with the arrow facing upward and pointing toward the Memory Stick slot. Carefully slide the Memory Stick media into the slot until it clicks into place. The Memory Stick media is automatically detected by your system and the contents on the Memory Stick media are displayed. If nothing appears on the desktop, click Start, Computer, and double-click the Memory Stick media icon.
! Be sure to hold the Memory Stick media with the arrow pointing in the correct direction as you insert it into the slot. To avoid damaging your computer or the Memory Stick media, do not force the Memory Stick media into the slot if you cannot insert it smoothly.
Do not insert more than one Memory Stick media into the slot. Improper insertion of the media may damage both your computer and the media. While the Memory Stick media is in the slot, you cannot close the front panel door. A forceful attempt to close the door may damage both your computer and the media.

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To view the contents on the Memory Stick media
Click Start and Computer to open the Computer window. Double-click the Memory Stick media icon to view the list of data files saved in the Memory Stick media.
To format a Memory Stick media
The Memory Stick media has been formatted in the factory default setting and is ready for use. If you want to reformat the media with your computer, follow these steps.
! Be sure to use the device that is designed to format the media and supports the Memory Stick media when formatting the media.
Formatting the Memory Stick media erases the entire data on the media. Before formatting the media, make sure that it does not contain your valuable data. Do not remove the Memory Stick media from the slot while formatting the media. This could cause a malfunction.
Carefully slide the Memory Stick media into the slot until it clicks into place. Click Start and Computer to open the Computer window. Right-click the Memory Stick media icon and select Format. Click Restore device defaults.
! The size of the allocation unit and file system may change.
Do not select NTFS from the File system drop-down list as it may cause a malfunction.
The formatting process will be completed more quickly if you select Quick Format in Format options.

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Click Start. Follow the on-screen instructions.
! It may take time to format the Memory Stick media depending on the media.

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Removing a Memory Stick Media
To remove a Memory Stick media
3 Check that the Media Access indicator light is off. Firmly grasp the extended part of the Memory Stick media. Carefully pull it out of the slot.

! Always remove the Memory Stick media gently, or it may pop out unexpectedly.
Do not remove the Memory Stick media while the Media Access indicator light is on. If you do, you may lose data. Large volumes of data may take time to load, so be sure the indicator is off before removing the Memory Stick media.

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Using Other Memory Cards
In addition to the Memory Stick slot, your computer is equipped with an SD memory card slot. You can use this slot to transfer data among digital cameras, camcorders, music players, and other audio/video devices.
The SD memory card slot is located behind the front panel door. You need to open this door before accessing the slot.

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Before You Use Memory Cards
The SD memory card slot on your computer supports the following memory cards: SD memory card SDHC memory card MultiMediaCard (MMC) For the latest information on compatible memory cards, see Sony Support Information (page 150) to visit the appropriate support Web site.
! Your computer has been tested and found compatible only with major memory card media available as of January 2008. However, not all memory card media that meet the same specifications as the compatible media are guaranteed of compatibility.
Always insert the correct memory card into the SD memory card slot. SD memory cards with capacity of up to 2 GB and SDHC memory cards with capacity of up to 16 GB have been tested and found compatible with your computer. The SD memory card slot on your computer does not support the high-speed data transfer feature of the SD memory card and SDHC memory card. Do not attempt to insert a memory card or memory card adapter of a different type into the SD memory card slot. An incompatible memory card or memory card adapter may cause difficulty in removing from the slot and can cause damage to your computer. Use care when inserting or removing a memory card from the SD memory card slot. Do not force the memory card in or out of the slot.

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Inserting a Memory Card

To insert a memory card

3 Slide open the front panel door with your fingertip. Locate the SD memory card slot (page 14). Hold the memory card with the arrow facing upward and pointing toward the memory card slot.
Carefully slide the memory card into the slot until it clicks into place. Do not force the card into the slot.
If the memory card does not go into the slot easily, remove it gently and verify you are inserting it in the proper direction.
! While a memory card is in the slot, you cannot close the front panel door. A forceful attempt to close the door may damage both your computer and the media.

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The IEEE 802.11b/g standard is a wireless LAN standard, using the 2.4 GHz bandwidth. The IEEE 802.11g standard provides high-speed communications, faster than the IEEE 802.11b standard. The IEEE 802.11a standard is a wireless LAN standard, using the 5 GHz bandwidth, and provides high-speed communications of up to 54 Mbps. The IEEE 802.11n draft standard is a wireless LAN standard, using the 2.4 or 5 GHz bandwidth, and provides high-speed communications of up to 144 Mbps* on the 2.4 GHz bandwidth or up to 300 Mbps* on the 5 GHz bandwidth. * Actual communication speed varies depending on your access point settings and so on. Your computer may employ the Intel Next-Gen Wireless-N technology* compliant with the IEEE 802.11a/b/g standard and the IEEE 802.11n draft standard. * Employed only on models that support the IEEE 802.11n draft standard. Wireless LAN devices using the 2.4 GHz bandwidth and the ones using the 5 GHz bandwidth cannot communicate with each other because the frequencies are different. The 2.4 GHz bandwidth used by wireless LAN compatible devices is also used by other various devices. Although technologies to minimize interference from other devices that use the same bandwidth are employed on wireless LAN compatible devices, such interference may cause lower communication speed, narrower communication range, or broken wireless connections. The communication speed varies depending on the distance between communication devices, existence of obstacles between such devices, the device configuration, the radio conditions, and the software in use. In addition, communications may be cut off depending on the radio conditions. The communication range varies depending on the actual distance between communication devices, existence of obstacles between such devices, the radio conditions, the ambient environment that includes existence of walls and materials of such walls, and the software in use. Deploying IEEE 802.11b and IEEE 802.11g products on the same wireless network may reduce the communication speed due to radio interference. Taking this into consideration, the IEEE 802.11g products are designed to reduce the communication speed to ensure communications with IEEE 802.11b products. When the communication speed is not as fast as expected, changing the wireless channel on the access point may increase the communication speed.

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Connecting the Wireless LAN Antenna
To use the wireless LAN functionality on your computer, you must connect the supplied wireless LAN antenna to your computer.
To connect the wireless LAN antenna
Screw the wireless LAN antenna cable (1) counterclockwise into the WLAN ANT port (2) on the back of your computer.
! Be sure to turn the cable plug counterclockwise so as not to damage the WLAN ANT port.
! Be sure to keep the wireless LAN antenna at least 30 cm away from your computer.

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For better reception, if needed, you may mount the wireless LAN antenna to a wall using the supplied screw.

To use VAIO Control Center
3 Click Start, All Programs, and VAIO Control Center. Select the desired control item and change the settings. Once finished, click OK. The setting of the desired item has been changed.
For more information about each option, see the help file on VAIO Control Center. Some of the control items will not be visible if you open VAIO Control Center as a standard user.

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Using the Power Saving Mode
In addition to the normal operating mode, which allows you to turn off specific devices, your computer has a distinct power saving mode called Sleep mode.

Using Normal Mode

This is the normal state of the computer when it is in use. To save power while not working, you can turn off a specific device such as the connected display or the hard disk drive.

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Using Sleep Mode
Sleep mode temporarily suspends the entire system operations for lower power consumption. The orange power light is on during this mode.
! Turn off your computer if you do not intend to use it for a long period of time.

To activate Sleep mode

Click Start, the arrow next to the Lock button, and Sleep.
When your computer is in Sleep mode, you cannot insert a disc. Alternatively, you can slide the power switch on the wireless keyboard to the OFF position, or press the sleep button on the keyboard or the remote commander to place your computer into Sleep mode.

To return to Normal mode

Press the power button on your computer. Slide the power switch on the wireless keyboard to the ON position; or press the space bar on the wireless keyboard. Press the sleep button on the wireless keyboard or the remote commander.
! If you press and hold the power button for more than four seconds, your computer will turn off automatically. You will lose all unsaved data.

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If the computer is not used for a certain period of time, it will enter Sleep mode. To modify this, you can change the Sleep mode settings.
To change the Sleep mode settings
3 Click Start, Control Panel, Hardware and Sound, and Power Options. Click Change plan settings under the current power plan. Change the time to place the computer into Sleep mode and click Save Changes.

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Upgrading Your VAIO Computer
Your VAIO computer and memory modules use high precision components and electronic connectors technology. To avoid invalidation of the warranty during your product warranty period, we recommend that: You should contact your dealer to install a new component. You should not install it yourself, if you are not familiar with upgrading a computer. You should not touch the connectors on any component. For the type of components available for upgrading and the amount of memory installed on your model, see the online specifications. Contact VAIO-Link if you need assistance.

On Handling Floppy Disks
Do not open the shutter manually or touch the surface of the floppy disk. Keep floppy disks away from magnets. Keep floppy disks away from direct sunlight and other sources of heat. Keep floppy disks away from any liquid. Do not let them get wet. When you are not using your floppy disk, always remove it from the floppy disk drive and use a storage case. If the floppy disk comes with an adhesive label, make sure that the label is properly affixed. If the edge of the label is curled up, the label may stick to the inside of the floppy disk drive and cause a malfunction or damage your floppy disk.

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On Handling Discs
Do not touch the surface of the disc. Do not drop or bend the disc. Fingerprints and dust on the surface of a disc may cause read errors. Always hold the disc by its edges and central hole, as shown below:
Proper care of the disc is essential to its continuous reliability. Do not use solvents (such as benzine, thinner, alcohol, commercially available cleaners, or anti-static spray) which may cause damage to the disc. For normal cleaning, hold the disc by its edges and use a soft cloth to wipe the surface from the center out. If the disc is badly soiled, moisten a soft cloth with water, wring it out well, and use it to wipe the surface of the disc from the center out. Wipe off any remaining moisture with a dry soft cloth. Never affix an adhesive label to a disc. This will affect the use of the disc irreparably.

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On Using Headphones
Preventing hearing damage Avoid using headphones at high volume. Hearing experts advise against continuous, loud and extended play. If you experience a ringing in your ears, reduce the volume or discontinue use.

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On Handling Memory Stick Media
Do not touch the Memory Stick media connector with your finger or metallic objects. Use only the adhesive label supplied with the Memory Stick media as a label. Do not bend, drop, or apply strong shock to the Memory Stick media. Do not disassemble or modify Memory Stick media. Do not let Memory Stick media get wet. Do not use or store Memory Stick media in a location subject to: Static electricity Electrical noise Extremely high temperatures, such as in a car parked in the sun Direct sunlight High humidity Corrosive substances Use the storage case supplied with the Memory Stick media. Be sure to make a backup copy of your valuable data. Keep the Memory Stick media and Memory Stick Adaptors out of reach of children. There is a risk of swallowing them. When using the Memory Stick Duo media, do not use a fine-tipped pen to write on the label adhered to the Memory Stick Duo media. Exerting pressure on the media may damage internal components.

Connection availability is affected by distance and obstructions. You may need to move your computer away from obstructions or closer to any access point you may be using. Make sure the WLAN switch is on and the Wireless LAN indicator is lit on your computer. Make sure power to the access point is on. Follow these steps to check the settings: 3 Click Start and Control Panel. Click View network status and tasks under Network and Internet. Click Connect to a network to confirm that your access point is selected.
Make sure the encryption key is correct.
What should I do if I cannot access the Internet?
Check the access point settings. See the manual that came with your access point for more information. Make sure your computer and the access point are connected to one another. Move your computer away from obstructions or closer to any access point you may be using. Make sure your computer is properly configured for Internet access.

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Why is the data transfer speed slow?
The wireless LAN data transfer speed is affected by distance and obstructions between devices and access points. Other factors include device configurations, radio conditions, and software compatibility. To maximize the data transfer speed, move your computer away from obstructions or closer to any access point you may be using. If you are using a wireless LAN access point, the device may be temporarily overloaded depending on how many other devices are communicating via the access point. If your access point interferes with other access points, change the access point channel. See the manual that came with your access point for more information.
How do I avoid data transfer interruptions?
When your computer is connected to an access point, data transfer interruptions may occur when using large files or if the computer is in close proximity to microwaves and cordless telephones. Move your computer closer to the access point. Make sure the access point connection is intact. Change the access point channel. See the manual that came with your access point for more information.

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What are channels?
Wireless LAN communication occurs on divided frequency bands known as channels. Third-party wireless LAN access point channels may be preset to different channels from Sony devices. If you are using a wireless LAN access point, see connectivity information contained in the manual that came with your access point.
Why does the network connection stop when I change the encryption key?
Two computers with the wireless LAN functionality may lose a peer-to-peer network connection if the encryption key is changed. You can either change the encryption key back to the original profile or re-enter the key on both computers so the key matches.

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Display
What should I do if my TV screen remains blank?
Make sure that both power cords of your computer and TV are securely plugged into power sources. Make sure that your computer and TV are properly connected. Make sure that both your computer and TV are turned on. When two displays are connected to your computer, make sure that the display settings are correct on the other display. See Selecting Display Modes (page 79).
What should I do if my TV screen is dark?
Adjust the brightness control on your TV to brighten the screen. See the manual that came with your TV for the detailed instructions. Check other inputs on your TV for brightness. If they also appear dark, see the manual that came with your TV for adjustment.
What should I do if my TV screen shows distorted images?
Make sure that your computer and TV are properly connected.

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What should I do if the screen of my TV that is connected to the HDMI OUT port remains blank?
Unplug the HDMI cable once and plug it back. Your TV may not be HDCP compliant. Be sure to use an HDCP compliant TV. When two displays are connected to your computer, make sure that the display settings are correct on the other display. See Selecting Display Modes (page 79).
What should I do if my TV screen does not show a clear view of the Windows desktop?
Depending on your TV, it may not be capable of displaying the Windows desktop as clearly as computer displays. You may solve this problem by disabling the image quality settings on your TV, such as noise reduction, correction features, and enhancer features; but it also depends on your TV if such changes to the settings are available. For more information, see the manual that came with your TV.

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How do I run Windows Aero?
! This Q & A entry applies to selected models only.
To run Windows Aero, follow these steps: 5 Click Start and Control Panel. Click Customize colors under Appearance and Personalization. Click Open classic appearance properties for more color options. Select Windows Aero from the Color scheme options on the Appearance tab. Click OK.
For information about the Windows Aero features, such as Windows Flip 3D, see Windows Help and Support.

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Printing
What should I do if I cannot print a document?
Make sure your printer is on, and the printer cable is securely connected to the ports on the printer and computer. Make sure your printer is compatible with the Windows operating system installed on your computer. You may need to install the printer driver software before you use your printer. See the manual that came with your printer for more information. If your printer is not functioning after your computer resumes from Sleep mode, then restart the computer. If the bidirectional communication functions are provided with your printer, disabling the functions on your computer may enable printing. Follow these steps: Click Start and Control Panel. Click Printer under Hardware and Sound. Right-click the printer icon and select Properties. Click the Ports tab. Click to cancel the Enable bidirectional support check box. Click OK.

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Support Options
This section contains information on where to go for answers to questions about your VAIO computer. Sony Support Information (page 150) e-Support (page 151)

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Sony Support Information
See the following sources for answers in the sequence listed below. See Documentation (page 7) for details on the printed and non-printed documentation supplied with your computer, as well as further sources of reference. Go to the help files that accompany your software for instructions on using the software. Use the search functionality in Windows Help and Support by pressing and holding the Microsoft Windows key and pressing the F1 key. VAIO-Link Web site: If you have any problem with the computer, you can access the VAIO-Link Web site for troubleshooting. Go to http://www.vaio-link.com. e-Support: This interactive part of our Web site http://www.vaio-link.com allows you to get in contact with our dedicated support team over the Internet. Using a personalized account, you can log your technical queries with ease. VAIO-Link help lines: Before contacting VAIO-Link by telephone, try to solve the problem by reading the printed and nonprinted documentation. Visit the other Sony Web sites: http://www.club-vaio.com if you want to know more about VAIO and become part of the growing VAIO community. http://www.sonystyle-europe.com for online purchases. http://www.sony.net for other Sony products.
You need to set up an Internet connection before you can access the online features described here.

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e-Support

What is e-Support?

You have searched our user guides and Web site (http://www.vaio-link.com) but have not found an answer to your question/ issue? e-Support is the ideal solution for you! Our e-Support Web Portal is an interactive Web site on which you can submit any technical query you may have regarding your computer and receive answers from our dedicated support team. Every submitted query will result in a unique 'case number' to ensure smooth communication between yourself and the eSupport Team.

Who can use e-Support?

All registered VAIO customers are entitled to unlimited access to the VAIO-Link e-Support Web Portal.