Sony Personal Computer PCV L630 User Manual

VAIO Slimtop LCD  
Computer User Guide  
PCV-L630  
®
 
Contents  
Recovery CDs .......................................................................................4  
Registering Your Computer ......................................................... 13  
VAIO Action Setup ........................................................................ 14  
Changing the Window Design of Sony Software ..................... 17  
Using the Memory Stick® Media................................................. 18  
Using PC Cards .............................................................................. 21  
Using the Standby Function ......................................................... 23  
Standby Mode Indicators..................................................................24  
Shutting Down Your Computer .................................................. 24  
About the Power Switch ...................................................................25  
iii  
 
Using the Application Recovery CD(s).......................................28  
About Your Recovery CDs............................................................33  
For Answers to Your Software Questions ..................................34  
Troubleshooting .............................................................................36  
To Reach Sony ....................................................................................39  
Specifications...................................................................................40  
Index................................................................................... 43  
iv  
 
Features  
For a complete description of the specifications of your Sony computer, see “Specifications”  
on page 40.  
®
i.LINK (IEEE-1394): Two built-in i.LINK ports provide you with  
front and rear digital connection capability. The i.LINK name and  
logo identify a digital interface (IEEE-1394) for high speed  
communication.  
®
Exceptional performance: Your computer includes a fast Intel  
processor and a V.90-compatible data/ fax modem.  
*
Ergo-Angle Multimedia LCD display: With its exclusive dual-  
hinge pedestal, this 15" XGA TFT display provides twice the  
flexibility of other LCDs. Select the perfect viewing angle and enjoy  
®
the built-in Harman/ Kardon stereo speakers.  
AutoAlert E-mail Notification System: Custom software  
®
automatically downloads e-mail on a pre-set schedule via Microsoft  
Outlook Express. A light on the LCD display instantly lets you  
know when new mail is received.  
®
VAIO Smart convertible keyboard: The innovative palm rest  
converts to a keyboard cover for a sleek look when not in use. Six  
Programmable Power Keys let you launch any application with the  
push of a button; dual-sided mouse connections for left- or right-  
hand use.  
Sony Memory Stick® media slot: The next generation of digital  
media, smaller than a stick of gum. Easily delivers information from  
one Memory Stick-equipped electronic device to another, so you can  
transfer images, sounds, data and text between cameras, computers,  
and more.  
* Actual upload and download speeds may vary due to line conditions, ISP support, and government  
regulations.  
1
 
Sony VAIO User’s Guide  
 
2
VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide  
Compact components: Enjoy the small footprint and versatile setup  
options available by positioning the components in an arrangement  
of your choice.  
Sony audio and video quality: High-fidelity 3D audio system and  
high-powered 3D graphics (AGP) enable you to take advantage of  
todays advanced multimedia applications, games, and  
entertainment software.  
Preinstalled software titles: All the software on your computer is  
preinstalled, configured, and ready for you to use right out of the box.  
®
®
Microsoft Windows 98 Second Edition operating system: Your  
system includes the latest operating system from Microsoft.  
Communications: Access popular online services, browse the  
Internet, send faxes, and more.  
 
Unpacking Your Computer  
3
Unpacking Your Computer  
Computer and Supplied Accessories  
System unit  
LCD  
Keyboard  
Mouse  
Stand  
(for vertical installation;  
screw is included)  
Spacers  
Ferrite core  
Keyboard cable  
Phone cable  
Power cable  
 
     
4
VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide  
Manuals  
Read Me First contains last-minute supplementary information and  
software support numbers.  
The VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide (this manual) contains  
features and specifications of your computer. It also includes  
information on the applications included with your system and how  
to contact software vendors, get started with your computer, and  
solve common problems.  
®
The VA I O Consumer Information Guide contains safety and regulatory  
information, ergonomic considerations, information on help  
resources, and your computers limited warranty statement.  
®
®
The Microsoft Windows 98 Second Edition Getting Started manual  
explains how to use the basic features of the Windows operating  
®
system.  
Recovery CDs  
System Recovery CD(s) – Enables you to reinstall software that  
shipped with your computer if it is corrupted or accidentally erased.  
For more information, see “Using the System Recovery CD(s)” on  
page 26.  
Application Recovery CD(s) – Allows you to reinstall individual  
applications or device drivers if they are corrupted or accidentally  
erased. For more information, see “Using the Application Recovery  
CD(s)” on page 28.  
Other  
Setting up your VAIO Slimtop LCD Computer (poster)  
Packet containing special product offers  
Software CDs  
Microsoft® Word 2000  
 
       
Setting Up Your VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer  
5
Setting Up Your VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer  
Locating Controls and Connectors  
Front Panel  
FD  
DISC  
HD  
1
Power switch and indicator light  
Turns on/ off the computer and the display.  
The indicator light is green while the power is on and amber when  
the computer is in standby mode.  
2
3
4
5
6
Floppy disk drive  
Reads/ writes data from/ to a 3.5-inch floppy disk.  
Floppy disk eject button  
Ejects the floppy disk.  
DVD-ROM drive  
Reads data from a DVD-ROM/ CD-ROM.  
DVD-ROM/CD-ROM eject button  
Ejects a DVD-ROM/ CD-ROM.  
Manual eject hole  
If the DVD-ROM/ CD-ROM does not come out when you press the  
DVD-ROM/ CD-ROM eject button, insert a thin, pointed object into  
this hole to eject the disc manually.  
 
               
6
VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide  
FD  
DISC  
HD  
7
FD (Floppy disk drive) access indicator light  
Lights in green while reading/ writing data from/ to a floppy disk.  
8
9
0
qa  
qs  
Disc (DVD-ROM drive) access indicator light  
Lights in amber while reading data from a DVD-ROM/ CD-ROM.  
HD (drive) access indicator light  
Lights in green while reading/ writing data from/ to the hard disk.  
MIC (Microphone) connector*  
Connects a microphone (not supplied).  
PHONES (Headphones) connector*  
Connects headphones (not supplied).  
VOLUME control  
Adjusts the volume of the headphones connected to the PHONES  
connector. Users should note that this does not control the volume of the  
integrated LCD speakers.  
qd  
qf  
PC CARD slot  
A PC Card (also called a PCMCIA card) can be installed in this slot. PC  
cards enable you to add functionality to your system.  
MEMORY STICK media slot  
Insert a Sony Memory Stick® card into this slot. See page 18 for details  
on using Memory Stick media.  
qg  
qh  
i.LINK (4-pin)  
Connects a digital device such as a Sony Digital Handycam Camcorder.  
®
USB (Universal Serial Bus) connector  
Connects a USB device.  
* See “Using a Headphone or Microphone” on page 10 for important information about connecting a  
microphone and headphone.  
 
           
Setting Up Your VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer  
7
Rear Panel  
LINE  
PHONE  
USB  
LINE  
OUT  
I.LINK S400  
PRINTER  
SERIAL  
MONITOR  
LCD  
KEYBOARD  
IN  
USB  
LINE  
OUT  
I.LINK S400  
PRINTER  
SERIAL  
MONITOR  
LCD  
KEYBOARD  
IN  
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
AC INPUT connector  
Connects the supplied power cord.  
LINE jack  
Connects a phone cable to the wall jack.  
EMPTY PCI SLOT (FILLED WITH ETHERNET CARD ON CUSTOM MODELS)  
For a PCI Add-On Card (not supplied).  
TELEPHONE jack  
Connects the phone to the computer.  
PRINTER connector  
Connects a parallel device, such as a printer or scanner.  
SERIAL connector  
Connects a serial device, such as a digital still camera.  
MONITOR connector  
Connects a standard CRT display.  
USB (Universal Serial Bus) connector  
Connects a USB device.  
LINE IN connector  
Connects an audio device.  
 
               
8
VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide  
0
LINE OUT connector  
Connects an audio device or an active speaker.  
qa  
qs  
i.LINK (6-pin)  
Connects a digital device such as a Sony Digital Handycam  
Camcorder.  
®
LCD MONITOR connector  
Connects the LCD that comes with the VAIO Slimtop LCD computer.  
Note: Do not connect any display to this connector other than the LCD  
that is supplied with this system.  
qd  
KEYBOARD connector  
Connects a keyboard.  
LCD  
1
2
Power indicator light  
Light is green while the power is on. When the computer enters the  
standby mode, this indicator light turns amber.  
Information LED  
Light turns red to alert the user to activities, such as the arrival of  
e-mail. See “AutoAlert E-mail Notification System” on page 15.  
3
4
Brightness control  
Adjusts the brightness of the screen.  
Volume control  
Adjusts the volume of the integrated speakers on the LCD display.  
 
               
Setting Up Your VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer  
9
Using the Wheel Mouse  
For information about the Wheel Mouse that connects to either side of  
your keyboard, see MouseWare Help. To access MouseWare Help, from  
the Start menu, point to Programs, MouseWare, and then click  
MouseWare Help.  
To set up the mouse for left-handed use:  
1
2
Click the My Computer icon on your desktop.  
Click Control Panel, and then click Mouse. The Mouse Properties  
dialog box appears.  
3
4
5
6
7
In the Quick Setup tab, click Device Setup.  
In the Device Setup Wizard dialog box, click Next.  
Select the radio button next to “Left side of the keyboard.”  
Click Next three times, and then click Finish.  
Click Apply.  
 
 
10 VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide  
Using a Headphone or Microphone  
When you connect a microphone or headphone to your computer,  
attaching a ferrite core will reduce electrical interference. Attach the  
(supplied) ferrite core at the end of the headphone or microphone cable  
closest to the computer. Wrap the cable through the center of the ferrite  
core. The following illustration shows how to attach the ferrite core when  
you are using both a headphone and a microphone.  
Microphone and  
headphone cables  
Ferrite core  
Plugs connected to  
the computer  
The LCD and keyboard cables already include a ferrite core. Do not remove the ferrite core  
from these cables.  
 
     
Setting Up Your VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer  
11  
To adjust the height and viewing angle of the display  
Holding both sides of the display, push the display panel out and up, and  
then adjust the viewing angle.  
The LCD display is designed to maintain the best ergonomic viewing angle.  
Set the display height so that it does not touch the keyboard, and adjust  
the viewing angle approximately 27 degrees from eye level to the center  
of the screen.  
 
 
12 VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide  
Attaching the Stand to the System Unit  
The main system unit can be oriented horizontally or vertically. If you  
place the system in a vertical position, you must attach the supplied stand  
to ensure stability.  
1
Place the system unit on its right side, with the front of the system  
facing forward.  
2
Insert the grooved side of the stand into the ventilation holes of the  
system so that the two screw holes are aligned and the stands fins are  
at the rear of the unit.  
3
Secure the stand to the unit with the supplied screw.  
The stand keeps the system cool by allowing air to flow under it. If you choose to place the  
system unit in a vertical position, it is important to use the stand and to place the system unit  
on its left side, as in the illustration above; otherwise, the system may overheat.  
 
   
Registering Your Computer  
13  
Registering Your Computer  
Take advantage of Sonys commitment to quality customer support and  
receive these benefits by registering your computer:  
Sony Customer Support—Talk to a Support Representative to  
troubleshoot problems you may be having with your computer.  
Limited warranty—Protect your investment. See “Limited Warranty  
Statement” in the VA I O Consumer Information Guide for details.  
®
You must register your computer to extend the warranty from the initial 90-day warranty  
period to one year from the original date of purchase.  
Express Service—Provides a fast and direct return of your VAIO  
Slimtop™ LCD Computer to Sony for service of your computer.  
If you did not already register when you first turned on your computer,  
follow these steps to use the computer online registration service.  
1
2
Click the registration icon on the VAIO desktop.  
Enter the information requested on the first online registration form.  
Press the Tab key to move from box to box.  
3
4
Click the Next button to advance to the next form.  
Complete the remaining forms by clicking the Next button each time  
you complete a form.  
The computer automatically transfers your registration information  
using your built-in modem and a toll-free telephone number or a  
local number.  
You may sign up for Internet access with a Sony preferred Internet  
Service Provider.  
 
   
14 VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide  
VAIO Action Setup  
VAIO Action Setup manages the settings for your computer's  
®
Programmable Power Keys (PPK), Memory Stick media, i.LINK  
interface, and internal timer. An overview of each of these functions is  
provided below. For more information on changing the settings using  
VAIO Action Setup, see the online VAIO Action Setup help files. To access  
the help files, from the Start menu, point to Programs/ VAIO Action  
Setup/ VAIO Action Setup Help.  
Programmable Power Keys  
Your Sony computer comes with technology that allows you to get to  
your favorite applications easily. Each Programmable Power Key (PPK)  
on your VAIO Smart convertible keyboard comes programmed to launch  
a preset application with a single press of the key. If you wish, you can  
use the VAIO Action Setup software to change the Programmable Power  
Keys’ preset functions.  
The Programmable Power Keys are located at the top of your keyboard,  
and are numbered P1 through P6. The keys work even when the  
computer is turned off. Pressing one of these keys turns on the computer  
and launches the preset application.  
The six Programmable Power Keys come to you preprogrammed to  
perform the functions listed in the table below.  
Key  
Function  
Starts Microsoft Internet Explorer for Windows 98.  
®
®
P1 (INTERNET)  
P2 (MAIL)  
P3 (WORK)  
P4 (FINANCE)  
P5 (SETUP)  
P6 (HELP)  
®
®
Starts Microsoft Outlook Express  
®
Starts Microsoft Word  
®
®
Starts Intuit Quicken Basic 2000.  
Starts PPK Setup.  
Opens a menu of help options.  
Memory Stick  
You can use VAIO Action Setup to preset your computer to automatically  
launch an application when you insert a Memory Stick. For more  
®
information on Memory Stick media, see “Using Memory Stick Media”  
on page 18.  
 
         
VAIO Action Setup  
15  
Internal Timer  
The VAIO Action Setup software allows you to set your computers  
internal timer to launch certain applications automatically. The timer can  
start applications even when the power is off.  
Some software applications take longer than others to launch. It is advisable to confirm in  
advance the amount of time your selected application takes to start.  
AutoAlert E-mail Notification System  
VAIO Action Setup also enables you to set up your computer to notify  
you with an  
Information LED when new mail arrives in your e-mail  
mailbox. The Information LED turns red to indicate that new e-mail has  
arrived. For this AutoAlert E-mail Notification System to work, you must  
®
®
use Microsoft Outlook Express as your default e-mail software, and  
you must have an Internet Service Provider with dial-up capabilities  
set up.  
As an alternative, you can program your AutoAlert E-mail Notification  
System to set the Information LED to turn on when it has successfully  
completed the task of dialing up and connecting to receive mail. In this  
case, the Information LED turns on to indicate that your e-mail account  
has been accessed successfully, regardless of whether or not you have  
mail; this works with Microsoft Outlook Express.  
The e-mail software you choose to use with PPK must be set as your default e-mail software.  
See “LCD” on page 8 for an illustration showing the Information LEDs  
location.  
AutoAlert E-mail Notification System Software Restrictions  
If you use software that uses a phone line  
The computer may not be able to disconnect the phone line due to  
communication and server conditions.  
Be sure to monitor the status of the software when running the  
AutoAlert E-mail Notification System, and manually disconnect the  
phone line if you notice a malfunction. Furthermore, when using the  
timer to start the software, it is advised that you set the computer to  
shut down or enter system standby mode after a certain length of  
time. This allows the computer to disconnect the phone line if the  
computer fails to disconnect the line normally.  
 
       
16 VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide  
If you are using the timer to download e-mail automatically  
It is advisable to set up your e-mail software to redial automatically if it  
does not connect the first time. It is also advisable to set the e-mail  
software to disconnect the phone line automatically when all mail has  
been downloaded.  
®
®
If you are using Microsoft Outlook Express  
When using the AutoAlert E-mail Notification System with Microsoft  
Outlook Express, it is advisable to select the Dial automatically setting in  
your Microsoft Outlook Express software. If you have not chosen this  
setting and wish to do so, start Outlook Express, click Tools, and then  
select Options. Select the check box “Automatically dial when checking  
for new messages.” Click OK.  
 
Changing the Window Design of Sony Software  
17  
Changing the Window Design of Sony Software  
To change the window design of Sony software  
1
2
3
4
Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.  
Click UI Design Selector.  
Click << or >> and select the desired design.  
Click Apply.  
The “UI Design Selector” window design changes. The window design  
for your Sony software will match the “UI Design Selector” window.  
To try another selection, click << or >>. Then, click OK.  
The UI Design Selector closes and the window design of your Sony  
software window design displays.  
Note: You may use the feature with UI Design Selector-compatible software only.  
 
 
18 VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide  
®
Using the Memory Stick Media  
Your Sony computer is designed to support the new Memory Stick  
recording media. The Memory Stick media is a small, versatile device  
that allows you to share data between various types of Sony equipment.  
When you use the card, your computer automatically launches Windows Explorer. This allows  
you to view the contents of the card.  
If the image files are created by a Sony digital camera or camcorder, you  
do not need the following steps.  
If you want to create a slide show that launches automatically when you  
insert a Memory Stick, follow these steps to transfer images from your  
hard drive to a Memory Stick.  
1
2
3
4
5
6
Insert the Memory Stick into the appropriate slot.  
Click the My Computer icon on the desktop.  
Click the Removable Disk S: icon.  
Create a new folder and name it “DCIM.”  
Open the DCIM folder and create a new folder named “100MSDCF.”  
Click the Start button, select VAIO, and then click PictureGear to  
launch the PictureGear application.  
7
Select the digital images you want to save in your slide show.  
 
   
Using the Memory Stick® Media  
19  
8
9
From the PictureGear File menu, point to File Process, and then select  
Still Format Conversion.  
Select Memory Stick as the Output Format.  
10 Use the Browse button to select the DCIM/ 100MSDCF folder on the  
Removable Disk (S:) drive.  
11 Name the file. The file name must begin with DSC (DSC0xxxx). The  
full file name without extension must have at least eight characters.  
The order in which your photos appear in your slide show will be  
determined by the number (xxxx) in the file name. Some examples of  
acceptable file names are DSC00001.jpg and DSC00002.jpg  
12 Click OK to save the file.  
You can also add MPEG1 video files to your Slide Show by following the  
steps below. The order in which your video clips (MOV0xxxx files)  
appear in your Slide Show is determined by the number (xxxx) in the file  
name.  
1
2
3
4
5
Insert the Memory Stick into the media slot.  
Click the My Computer icon on the desktop.  
Click the Removable Disk S: icon.  
Create a new folder and name it “MSSONY.”  
Open the MSSONY folder and create a new folder named  
“MOML0001.”  
6
From the PictureGear File menu, point to File Process, and then select  
Still Format Conversion.  
7
8
Copy the MPEG file into the MOML0001 folder.  
Rename the MPEG file MOV0xxxx.mpg, where xxxx is any four-digit  
number.  
9
To begin showing your slides, eject the Memory Stick and then  
reinsert it. The slide show will begin automatically.  
 
20 VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide  
To protect data on Memory Stick media from accidental changes  
Memory Stick media contains a write-protect tab. The write-protect tab  
prevents accidental changes to information recorded on the Memory  
Stick media. When you slide the write-protect tab to the LOCK position,  
the Memory Stick is write-protected, which means you cannot delete,  
copy, or save information on the Memory Stick. When you slide the tab  
to the un-LOCK position, you can write to or modify the Memory Stick  
contents.  
To unlock  
To lock  
LOCK  
LOCK  
LOCK  
To change the way the computer responds when a Memory Stick is inserted  
into the Memory Stick media slot  
Change the options on the Memory Stick tab in the PPK Setup software.  
 
Using PC Cards  
21  
Using PC Cards  
This computer has a card bus PC card slot that supports a Type I or II PC  
card.  
To insert a PC card  
You do not need to shut down your computer when inserting a PC card.  
1
Open the front panel.  
2
Insert the PC card into the PC card slot until it clicks into position.  
When the card is completely inserted, the eject button pops out. If you cannot insert the card,  
do not forcibly insert it. In this case, make sure the card is not inserted upside-down or  
backward, and then reinsert the card into the slot carefully.  
See the manual that came with the PC card for details on using it.  
To close the front panel when the eject button is protruding, fold the button down onto the  
computer.  
 
   
22 VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide  
To eject a PC card  
If you eject the PC card incorrectly, the system may not work correctly.  
®
1
Click the Start button on the Windows taskbar, click Settings, and  
then click Control Panel.  
2
3
4
Click the PC Card icon.  
Click the name of the card that you want to eject, and then click Stop.  
When the message “You may safely remove this device” appears,  
click OK.  
5
Push the PC card eject button on the front panel of the system unit.  
You may need to pull out the eject button before you can eject the  
card.  
The card is ejected from the card connector. Remove the card by holding it  
by its edge and pulling it out carefully.  
 
Using the Standby Function  
23  
Using the Standby Function  
When you are finished using your computer, you can put it in standby  
mode rather than turn it off completely. Putting the computer in standby  
mode allows you to return quickly to normal computer use.  
To put the computer in standby mode manually  
1
2
Save your work and close any applications that are running. (You can  
leave Windows running.)  
Press the  
(Standby) button on the top of the keyboard.  
The computer goes into standby mode.  
®
Alternatively, you can click the Start button on the Windows taskbar,  
click Shut Down, select Standby, and then click OK.  
To let the computer go into standby mode automatically  
Click the My Computer icon on your desktop. Click Control Panel, and  
then click the Power Management icon. On the Power Schemes tab, select  
from the options in the Power schemes drop-down list. Then, choose  
settings for the power scheme you have selected. To save the settings  
under a name that is not offered in the Power schemes pulldown menu,  
choose your settings and then click Save As. Type in a name, and click  
OK. Click Apply to finalize your power settings.  
To resume from standby mode  
There are three ways to bring your computer back from the standby  
mode: press the space bar on your keyboard, press the left mouse button,  
or momentarily depress the power button on your computer.  
If the display does not return from standby when you press the  
(Standby) button, your  
system may be in video standby mode. Press the space bar on the keyboard to return from  
video standby.  
 
     
24 VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide  
Standby Mode Indicators  
You can tell which mode the computer is in by the color of the power  
indicator light.  
Color  
Mode  
Amber  
Green  
Computer is in standby mode.  
Computer is out of standby mode, ready to use.  
Computer is turned off.  
No color  
In standby mode you may periodically hear the computer’s fan turn on and off, depending on  
the room’s temperature. This is normal functioning in standby mode.  
Shutting Down Your Computer  
When you are ready to turn off your computer for an extended period of  
time, use the following procedure to shut down the computer.  
!
To avoid the potential loss of data, do not use the power switch to shut down  
the computer.  
To shut down your computer  
If you plan to shut down your computer for a short period of time, you may want to use  
standby mode instead. See “Using the Standby Function” on page 23.  
®
1
Click the Start button on the Windows taskbar to open the Start  
menu.  
2
3
4
Click Shut Down to display the Shut Down Windows dialog box.  
Select the Shut Down option.  
Click OK to complete the shutdown process.  
Respond to any prompts about saving documents.  
5
6
Wait for your computer to turn off automatically — the power  
indicator light turns off.  
Turn off any peripherals connected to your computer. The LCD  
display turns off automatically when the computer shuts down.  
 
       
Shutting Down Your Computer  
25  
You can also shut down your computer using the  
(Power) button on the keyboard.  
Pressing this button causes the system to perform a shutdown but does not give you any of  
®
the other options available on the Windows Shut Down menu.  
About the Power Switch  
If your system “locks up” or “crashes,” press and hold the power switch  
for four seconds to force your system to power off. You may need to  
repeat this procedure. See “Locating Controls and Connectors” on page 5  
for the power switchs location.  
 
 
26 VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide  
Using the System Recovery CD(s)  
You can reinstall software titles that shipped with your computer if they  
are corrupted or accidentally erased. You may not need to recover the  
entire contents of your hard drive. If you experience a problem with your  
computer, reinstalling an individual device driver or software title may  
correct the problem.  
Use the Application Recovery CD(s) to reinstall individual applications  
or device drivers. See “Using the Application Recovery CD(s)” on  
page 28.  
The System Recovery CD(s) contain a backup copy of all the software  
originally installed on your hard disk drive. They can be used only to  
recover the hard disk of the Sony computer you purchased.  
The System Recovery utility gives you three options:  
Full Restore without Format restores all the software titles that  
originally came with your computer without formatting the hard  
disk.  
Full Restore with Format formats the hard disk drive and then  
restores all the original software. If your hard drive is partitioned into  
C and D drives, the computer will offer you the option to reformat  
the drive into a single partition.  
®
Operating System Only (Windows 98 Restore with Format) formats  
®
the hard disk drive and restores the Windows operating system and  
the device drivers that shipped with your computer. This option is  
recommended for advanced users only.  
! If you choose the Full Restore with Format or Operating System Only option,  
your hard disk will be formatted, which removes all the information on the hard  
disk drive. You will lose any software you have installed and any other files you  
have created since you started to use your computer. This means you will have  
to reinstall any applications that were not included with the computer when you  
purchased it. If you choose the Full Restore without Format option, you may  
need to reinstall applications that were not included with the computer when  
you purchased it. If you have any questions on using the System Recovery CD(s),  
contact Sony Customer Support.  
 
   
Using the System Recovery CD(s)  
27  
To use the System Recovery CD(s)  
You need to complete the Windows registration process when you use the System Recovery  
CD(s).  
1
Insert the Sony System Recovery CD in the DVD-ROM drive.  
The System Recovery utility boots from the DVD-ROM drive. It must be in the drive when  
you turn on the computer.  
2
Shut down your computer as described in “Shutting Down Your  
Computer” on page 24.  
3
4
Wait 30 seconds and turn on your computer.  
Click OK to signify you have read and accept the Microsoft End-User  
License Agreement.  
5
When the System Recovery menu appears, follow the on-screen  
instructions to complete the recovery process.  
Your system may include one or two System Recovery CDs. If you have two System Recovery  
CDs, insert the first CD to run the System Recovery program. You are prompted to insert the  
second CD once the information from the first CD has been installed.  
The recovery process takes 30 to 60 minutes to complete.  
 
28 VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide  
The Application Recovery CD(s) allow you to reinstall individual  
applications and device drivers if they are corrupted or accidentally  
erased. Reinstalling an individual device driver or software title may  
correct a problem you are experiencing with your computer, and you may  
not need to recover the entire contents of your hard drive. If you do need  
to reinstall all the software titles that shipped with your computer, use the  
System Recovery CD(s). See “Using the System Recovery CD(s)” on  
page 26.  
You must be in Windows to run the Application Recovery CD(s). The  
application will not run from DOS. If you have any questions on using  
the Application Recovery CD(s), contact Sony Customer Support.  
To use the Application Recovery CD(s)  
1
2
Turn on your computer. If your computer is already on, close all  
applications.  
When the Windows desktop appears, insert the Sony Application  
Recovery CD in the DVD-ROM drive. The Application Recovery  
utility loads automatically.  
3
When the Application Recovery menu appears, follow the on-screen  
instructions to complete the recovery process.  
Your system may include one or two Application Recovery CDs. If you have two Application  
Recovery CDs, insert the first CD to run the Application Recovery program. You may be  
prompted to insert the second CD, depending on the application you wish to restore.  
 
     
About the Software on Your Computer  
29  
About the Software on Your Computer  
Your VAIO Slimtop computer is ready to help you work, play, learn, and  
communicate as soon as you turn it on. This section gives you an  
overview of the activities you can perform with your software titles. For  
support information, see “For Answers to Your Software Questions” on  
page 34.  
®
Adobe Acrobat Reader  
Adobe Systems Incorporated  
Acrobat Reader software allows you to view, navigate, and print electronic  
documents in Adobes Portable Document Format (PDF), an open file format that  
is intended to preserve the fidelity of documents created on all major computer  
platforms.  
®
Adobe PhotoDeluxe Home Edition  
Adobe Systems Incorporated  
Create amazing photo effects with PhotoDeluxe. Without learning complex  
software, you can enhance, restore, and be creative with your photos. Includes  
built-in guided activities, stock photos, clip art, and templates to assist you.  
®
Adobe Premiere LE  
Adobe Systems Incorporated  
Adobe Premiere LE offers an interface and editing tool for producing movies  
for video, multimedia, or the Web. View source clips and edited footage  
simultaneously in the monitor window. Create video clips up to three hours long  
with complete audio-video synchronization.  
®
America Online  
America Online  
America Online is the world's most popular Internet online service. Stay in touch  
with family and friends with Easy-to-Use E-mail, manage your personal finances,  
get the latest news and sports scores, and chat with thousands of others who share  
your interests.  
®
AT&T WorldNet Service  
AT&T  
Fast, reliable Internet access from AT&T WorldNet Service. AT&T WorldNet  
Service provides Web-based e-mail, a personalized start page from Excite, easy  
access to the Excite search engine, free Web pages, online and live agent technical  
support, instant messaging, and special shopping discounts at Market Square.  
 
   
30 VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide  
®
CompuServe 2000  
CompuServe Interactive Services  
The all new CompuServe 2000 delivers a powerful tool for Internet users who  
want serious and timely information, in-depth research, and professional  
communities backed by state-of-the-art technologies, including high-speed access  
and powerful e-mail messaging.  
Digital Media Bar™  
Sony Electronics  
Media Bar software is your all-in-one solution for audio/ video playback. It  
handles all common computer multimedia formats, and controls selected Sony  
devices. Media Bar software encompasses audio/ video library cataloging and  
playlist management, in addition to digital video quality control and effects  
features.  
DVgate™  
Sony Electronics  
Connect a digital video camera recorder to the i.LINK connector and capture your  
own video clips. You can edit the clips from your video, add others, and combine  
clips into new movie segments.  
EarthLink TotalAccess™  
EarthLink Network, Inc.  
An Internet Service Provider that supplies access, information, and assistance to  
its customers, introducing them to the Internet. Member benefits include e-mail,  
newsgroups, a Personal Start Page, a free 6 MB web site, a member magazine, and  
24-hour technical support.  
®
McAfee’s VirusScan  
Network Associates, Inc.  
Protect your computer from viruses. VirusScan can detect viruses from floppy  
disks, Internet downloads, e-mail attachments, intranets, shared files, CD-ROMs,  
and online services.  
®
®
Microsoft Internet Explorer for Windows 98  
Microsoft Corporation  
Internet Explorer delivers the Web the way you want it. It's safe, easy to use, and  
you can personalize how you access the Web. Outlook Express and other tools in  
Internet Explorer also help you have a great experience when you are on the Web!  
 
About the Software on Your Computer  
31  
®
®
Microsoft Outlook Express  
Microsoft Corporation  
Outlook Express, the messaging tool that takes your e-mail and newsgroup  
communications to new heights! Outlook Express is easy to set up and use, and  
provides you with secure, personalized, and complete features that make  
creating, sending, and reading your e-mail a more rich and dynamic experience.  
®
Microsoft Word 2000  
Microsoft Corporation  
Microsoft Word 2000 makes it easy to create common Web, e-mail, and print  
documents for use around the world. It embraces HTML as a first-class file format  
and extends Word's ease-of-use to the Web and e-mail. Word 2000 also extends  
that ease of use to international users, making it easy to create multilingual  
documents.  
®
Netscape Communicator  
Netscape Communications  
Netscape Communicator is the all-in-one Internet tool that makes it easy to  
browse the Web, send Internet e-mail, chat, read newsgroups, and compose great  
Web documents.  
PictureGear™  
Sony Electronics  
This image management software displays images from your hard drive, a Sony  
®
digital still camera, or a Sony Mavica camera. The images appear in a convenient  
light-table format, so that you can easily view the contents of an entire folder.  
Prodigy Internet™  
Prodigy Communications Corporation  
An Internet service that helps you find what you need online faster and smarter.  
Prodigy delivers powerful online content, such as sports scores, stock quotes,  
news, and easy access to Excite™, plus a personal e-mail account and quality  
customer service, all at a competitive price.  
®
Quicken Basic  
Intuit, Inc.  
Quicken is the fastest, easiest way to organize your finances. Quicken works just  
like your checkbook, so it's easy to learn and use. Quicken manages all of your  
finances, bank accounts, credit cards, investments, and loans. You can even pay  
your bills online.  
 
32 VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide  
Smart Capture  
Sony Electronics  
Smart Capture is a fun new way to send multimedia messages via e-mail. Smart  
Capture manages the i.LINK connection between your computer and a Sony  
®
Digital Handycam Camcorder or other cameras that support the i.LINK  
interface. It allows you to capture and compress video or still images that you can  
save or share via e-mail. A smart solution to computer, digital audio/ video, and  
network convergence.  
Smart Connect  
Sony Electronics  
Smart Connect allows you to use an i.LINK cable to connect your VAIO computer  
to another VAIO computer that supports Smart Connect. You can then use one  
computer to copy, delete, and edit files on the other computer. You can also print  
from a printer attached to either computer.  
®
Sound Forge  
Sonic Foundry  
Sound Forge allows you to put powerful audio processing tools and effects to  
work on your desktop. Simply cut, copy, and paste your way to striking  
multimedia files for use in everything from Web pages to desktop presentations.  
VAIO Action Setup  
Sony Electronics  
VAIO Action Setup manages the settings for your computers Programmable  
Power Keys (PPK), Memory Stick media, i.LINK interface, and internal timer. For  
more information, see “VAIO Action Setup” on page 14.  
®
WinFax Basic Edition  
Symantec Corporation  
WinFax Basic Edition incorporates an easy-to-use interface that allows you to  
send and receive faxes easily. Upgrade to WinFax Pro to receive additional  
features.  
 
About Your Recovery CDs  
33  
About Your Recovery CDs  
Application Recovery CD(s)  
Sony Electronics  
The Application Recovery CD program allows you to reinstall individual  
applications and device drivers. Use it to restore corrupted or accidentally erased  
files.  
System Recovery CD(s)  
Sony Electronics  
The System Recovery CD program allows you to restore the software titles that  
shipped with your computer if they become corrupted or are erased accidentally.  
It can be used only to restore the hard disk of the Sony computer you purchased.  
 
 
34 VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide  
For Answers to Your Software Questions  
®
®
Acrobat Reader, Adobe PhotoDeluxe Home Edition  
(Adobe Systems Incorporated)  
Web site  
phone  
fax  
http:/ / www.adobe.com/  
206-628-2746 (fee-based support)  
206-628-5737  
e-mail  
hours  
techdocs@adobe.com  
M-F, 6 AM-5 PM PT  
®
America Online (America Online)  
Web site  
phone  
hours  
http:/ / www.aol.com/  
800-827-3338  
7 days a week, 6 AM - 2 PM ET  
®
AT&T WorldNet Service (AT&T)  
Web site  
phone  
e-mail  
hours  
http:/ / www.att.net  
800-400-1447  
worldnet@attmail.com  
7 days a week, 24 hours a day  
®
CompuServe 2000 (CompuServe Interactive Services)  
Web site  
phone  
hours  
http:/ / www.compuserve.com/  
800-848-8990  
M-F, 8 AM - 1 AM ET, S-S 10 AM - 10 PM ET  
EarthLink TotalAccess (EarthLink Network, Inc.)  
Web site  
phone  
e-mail  
hours  
http:/ / help.earthlink.net/ techsupport/  
800-395-8410  
support@earthlink.net  
7 days a week, 24 hours a day  
GTE Easy Sign-up (GTE Internet)  
phone  
hours  
800-927-3000  
7 days a week, 24 hours a day  
 
   
For Answers to Your Software Questions  
35  
McAfee’s VirusScan (Network Associates, Inc.)  
Web site  
phone  
e-mail  
hours  
http:/ / support.mcafee.com  
408-988-3832  
cybr@nai.com  
M - F 9 AM - 5 PM Central Time  
MindSpring Internet Desktop (MindSpring Enterprises, Inc.)  
Web site  
phone  
http:/ / help.mindspring.com/ support  
800-719-4660  
®
Quicken Basic (Intuit Inc.)  
Web site  
phone  
hours  
http:/ / www.intuit.com/ support  
900-555-4688  
7 days a week, 24 hours a day  
®
Sound Forge (Sonic Foundry)  
Web site  
phone  
fax  
http:/ / www.sonicfoundry.com/ support/  
608-256-5555  
608-256-7300  
e-mail  
hours  
support@sonicfoundry.com  
M - F, 8 AM - 7 PM CT  
®
®
Windows 98 Second Edition Operating System, Word 2000,  
®
Internet Explorer 5, Outlook Express (Microsoft Corporation)  
Web site  
phone  
hours  
http:/ / www. sony.com/ pcsupport  
*
888-4SONYPC (888-476-6972)  
7 days a week, 24 hours a day  
* Support from 1-888-4SONYPC is free of charge for 90 days after the original date of purchase.  
®
WinFax Basic Edition (Symantec Corporation)  
Web site  
phone  
fax  
http:/ / www.symantec.com/ techsupp/  
800-798-0850  
800-554-4403 in North America  
541-984-2490 outside North America  
 
36 VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide  
Troubleshooting  
This section describes how to solve common problems you may  
encounter when using your computer. Many problems have simple  
solutions, so try these suggestions before you call Sony Customer  
Support.  
My computer 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 on the front panel of the  
computer.  
Confirm that a diskette is not in the diskette drive (unless you are  
using a bootable diskette).  
Confirm that the power cord and all cables are connected firmly, as  
described on the color poster.  
If you plugged the computer into a power strip or UPS, make sure the  
power strip or UPS is turned on and working.  
My computer or software program “locks up”  
Close the application that is currently “locked up” by pressing  
Ctrl+Alt+Delete. In the Close Program dialog box, scroll down until  
you locate “(Not responding)” next to an application. Select this  
application and click End Task. Windows attempts to close the  
application. If the attempt is unsuccessful, a second dialog box  
appears. Select End Task again.  
If you are unable to “unlock” the application, repeat the above steps  
but select Shut Down when the Close Program dialog box appears.  
If the above steps fail to “unlock” your computer, save any unsaved  
work, if possible. Press Alt+F4. Select Restart and click OK.  
If you cannot restart as described in the preceding steps, you can  
restart the computer by pressing Ctrl+Alt+Delete or by pressing the  
power switch for more than six seconds.  
Pressing Ctrl+Alt+Delete may result in the loss of changes made to files that are  
currently open.  
Contact the software publisher or designated provider for technical  
support. See “For Answers to Your Software Questions” on page 34  
for a list of phone numbers and Web addresses or see Read Me First.  
 
     
Troubleshooting  
37  
My DVD-ROM/CD-ROM drive tray does not open  
Make sure the computer is turned on.  
If the Eject button does not work, you can open the tray by inserting a  
straightened heavyweight paper clip into the emergency eject hole.  
When I click an application icon, a message such as “You must insert the  
application CD into your CD-ROM (DVD-ROM) drive” appears and the  
software does not start  
Some titles require specific files that are located on the applications  
DVD-ROM/ CD-ROM. Insert the disc and try starting the program  
again.  
Check to make sure you inserted the DVD-ROM/ CD-ROM with the  
label side facing up.  
My modem connection is slow  
The computers modem uses K56flex™ technology/ V.90. Many factors  
influence modem connection speed, including telephone line noise or  
compatibility with telephone equipment (such as fax machines or other  
modems). If you think your modem is not connecting properly to other  
computer-based modems, fax machines, or your Internet Service  
Provider, check the following:  
Have your phone company check that your phone line is free from  
any line noise.  
If your problem is fax-related, check that there are no problems with  
the fax machine you are calling. The modem that receives your call  
may be slower or may use a different communications protocol than  
your modem. If this is the case, the connection speed may be slower  
than expected.  
For optimum performance, ensure you are calling an Internet Service  
Provider number that is V.90-compliant.  
If you are having a problem connecting with your Internet Service  
Provider, check that the ISP is not experiencing technical problems.  
If you have a second phone line available, try connecting the modem  
to this line.  
 
   
38 VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide  
My modem does not work  
Check that the phone line is plugged into the line jack.  
Check that the phone line is working. You can check the line by  
plugging in an ordinary phone and listening for a dial tone.  
Check that the phone number the program is dialing is correct.  
Verify that the software you are using is appropriately configured to  
recognize and interact with the Sony computer modem. Call the  
software publisher if you do not know how to configure the software  
to recognize the modem. All programs preinstalled by Sony are  
compatible.  
If you suspect your modem is not functioning, you can perform a  
simple test to find out. Click the My Computer icon on your desktop.  
Click Control Panel, and then click Modems. Click the Diagnostics  
tab and select COM2. Click More Info. If your modem is functioning,  
a More Info dialog box will display. If your modem is not functioning,  
an error message will appear.  
My microphone is too sensitive to background noise  
If you find there is too much background noise when you record sound,  
you should adjust the microphone gain by following these steps:  
®
1
Right-click the speaker icon (Volume) in the lower-right Windows  
task tray.  
2
3
Click Open Volume Controls. The Volume Control screen appears.  
In the Options menu, select Properties. The Properties screen  
appears.  
4
5
6
7
Change the setting for “Adjust volume for” from Playback to  
Recording, and then click OK.  
Click the Advanced button under Microphone Balance. The  
Advanced Controls for Microphone screen appears.  
Deselect the check box for 1 Mic Gain (+20dB), then click the Close  
button.  
Close the Recording Control window.  
 
Troubleshooting  
39  
My mouse does not work  
®
Check that the mouse is plugged into one of the PS/ 2 connectors on  
the keyboard. The other connector connects the keyboard to the  
computer.  
There may be dust or dirt inside the mouse mechanism. To clean the  
mouse, follow these steps:  
Turn off your computer. See “Shutting Down Your Computer” on  
page 24 for details.  
Remove the mouse ball cover on the back of the mouse by  
turning the ring that covers the mouse ball counter-clockwise.  
Turn the mouse upright, and drop the mouse ball into your hand.  
Using a piece of tape, remove any dust or dirt on the mouse ball  
and inside the mouse ball socket.  
Return the mouse ball to the socket, and replace the mouse ball  
cover. Secure the cover by turning the ring clockwise.  
®
I cannot find the Windows taskbar  
Check that the taskbar is not hidden or shrunken.  
Use the mouse to point to the left, right, top, and bottom edges of the  
screen.  
See Read Me First for additional information on using your Sony computer.  
To Reach Sony  
For further assistance, call 1-888-4SONYPC (1-888-476-6972).  
 
     
40 VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide  
Specifications  
Model  
PCV-L630  
600E MHz* Pentium® III  
17 GBUltra DMA  
Processor  
Hard Disk Drive  
Standard SDRAM  
Video RAM  
Graphics  
128 MB PC-100 SDRAM, expandable to 256 MB  
8 MB SDRAM  
2X AGP 3D graphics hardware acceleration  
(ATi Rage™ 128 Pro 4XL)  
Sound Capabilities  
Diskette Drive  
High fidelity 3D PCI audio Aureal AU8810  
3.5” 1.44 MB FDD  
DVD-ROM/CD-ROM Drive  
4.8X (max.) DVD-ROM reading  
**  
24X (max.) CD-ROM reading  
Modem  
K56flex technology/ V.90 compatible  
data/ fax modem††  
Expansion Capabilities  
Two PCI slots  
Connection Capabilities  
(Front)  
PC card (Card bus support)  
USB port  
Microphone  
Headphone  
Memory Stick media slot  
i.LINK (4-pin)  
Connection Capabilities  
(Rear)  
USB port  
Modem line (RJ-11)  
Phone line (RJ-11)  
Parallel (printer)  
Serial port  
VGA monitor  
LCD display  
Line In  
Line Out  
Keyboard  
i.LINK (6-pin)  
Connection Capabilities  
(Keyboard)  
Mouse (PS/ 2-style)  
left and right connectors  
Supplied Accessories  
Stand (for vertical installation)  
Power cable  
Phone cable  
Keyboard cable  
PS/ 2 Wheel Mouse  
VAIO Smart™ Convertible Keyboard  
Spacers (for bottom of the system)  
Ferrite core  
 
   
Specifications  
41  
Model  
Service  
PCV-L630  
90-day limited express service***  
Extendible to one year from original  
date of purchase upon registration  
Limited Warranty  
90-day parts/ labor standard††  
Extendible to one year from original  
date of purchase upon registration  
Power Requirements  
Dimensions  
130 watts maximum  
CPU: 11.2”(w) x 3.6” (h) x 13.4” (d)  
(280 mm x 90 mm x 335 mm)  
Keyboard: 15.9” (w) x 1.8” (h) x 7.1” (d)  
(398 mm x 45 mm x 178 mm)  
Display: 16.1” (w) x 13.1” (h) x 6.9” (d)  
(403 mm x 327 mm x 172 mm)  
Weight  
CPU: 11.9 lbs. (5.4kg)  
Display: 7.05 lbs (3.2 kg)  
Keyboard: 2.9 lbs. (1.3kg)  
Operating Temperature  
50º F to 95º F (+10º C to 35º C)  
* MHz denotes microprocessor internal clock speed; other factors may affect application performance.  
† GB means one billion bytes when referring to hard drive capacity. Accessible capacity may vary.  
**Data on a DVD-ROM is read at a variable transfer rate, ranging from 2X at the innermost track to 4.8X at  
the outermost track(the data transfer standard 1X rate is 1385 kbytes/s). The average data transfer rate  
is 3.6X(4986 kbytes/s). Data on a CD-ROM is read at a variable transfer rate, ranging from 10.5X at the  
innermost track to 24X at the outermost track(the data transfer standard 1X rate is 150 kbytes/s). The  
average data transfer is 18X(2700 kbytes/s).  
†† Maximum speed for faxing is 14.4 kbytes/s. Your modem is capable of downloading at 56 kbytes/s using  
K56flex technology or V.90. Your phone service, online service, or Internet Service Provider, however, may  
not support this technology or operate at this speed.  
***Certain restrictions apply.  
Specifications are subject to change without notice.  
 
42  
 
Index  
A
L
AC input connector 7  
Application Recovery CD 28  
adjusting 11  
connector 8  
B
brightness control, on LCD 8  
C
line OUT connector 8  
CD-ROM drive 5  
M
CD-ROM, troubleshooting 37  
cleaning, mouse 39  
computer, troubleshooting 36  
using 18  
E
microphone connector 6  
eject button, for floppy disk 5  
eject hole, for CD-ROM 5  
monitor connector 7  
mouse  
F
ferrite core (pictured) 3  
ferrite core, connecting 10  
floppy disk drive 5  
troubleshooting 39  
mouse (pictured) 3  
H
headphones connector 6  
using 10  
phone cable (pictured) 3  
power cable (pictured) 3  
power indicator  
I
Information LED, on LCD 8  
on LCD 8  
K
on system unit 5  
power switch 5  
keyboard  
(pictured) 3  
cable (pictured) 3  
connector 8  
printer connector 7  
problem solving 36  
Programmable Power Keys (PPK),  
using 14  
43  
 
 
44 VAIO Slimtop™ LCD Computer User Guide  
R
registering your computer 13  
S
serial connector 7  
software, bundled 29  
software, support contact numbers 34  
spacers (pictured) 3  
stand  
(pictured) 3  
attaching 12  
standby mode 23  
System Recovery CD 26  
system unit (pictured) 3  
T
telephone jack 7  
troubleshooting 36  
turning on and off the computer 5, 24,  
36  
U
Universal Serial Bus (USB) connector 6,  
7
unpacking the computer 3  
unpacking, system (pictured) 3  
V
VAIO Action Setup 14  
volume control for headphones 6  
volume control, on LCD 8  
 

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