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Sony PCV-RX742 Online Help Center (primary manual) Online Help Manual
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Sony PCV-RX742 Online Help Center (primary manual) Online Help Manual

Sony PCV-RX742 Online Help Center (primary manual) Online Help Manual

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Welcome
Congratulations on your purchase of the Sony VAIO Digital Studio
computer combines audio, video, and information technology features.
About Your VAIO Digital Studio Computer
To Unpack Your Computer
To Choose an Ergonomic Location
Click
here
to find the latest updates and supplemental information about your computer.
computer! Your new, high-performance, multimedia
Page 1

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Summary of Contents for Sony PCV-RX742 Online Help Center (primary manual)

  • Page 1 Welcome Congratulations on your purchase of the Sony VAIO Digital Studio computer combines audio, video, and information technology features.  About Your VAIO Digital Studio Computer  To Unpack Your Computer  To Choose an Ergonomic Location Click here to find the latest updates and supplemental information about your computer.

  • Page 2: About Your Vaio Digital Studio Computer

    Sony used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE 1394 connection. The i.LINK connection may vary, depending on the software applications, operating system and compatible i.LINK devices. All products with an i.LINK connection may not communicate with each other.
  • Page 3 Microsoft Windows XP operating system ® ® Your system includes this latest consumer operating system from Microsoft. Preinstalled software All the software on your computer is preinstalled, configured, and ready for you to use right out of the box. Communications You have the choice of a variety of popular online services to browse the Internet, access e-mail, send faxes, and much more.

  • Page 4: To Unpack Your Computer

     System Recovery CD(s) — Restore the software that shipped with your computer if it becomes corrupted or is erased. System Recovery CDs can only be used to restore the hard disk of the Sony computer you purchased.  Application Recovery CD(s) — Reinstall individual software applications or drivers, if they become corrupted or are erased.

  • Page 5: To Choose An Ergonomic Location

    To Choose an Ergonomic Location Before you get started, find the best location for your new computer. Planning your workspace  Stable work surface — Use a stable work surface large enough to support the computer and other peripheral equipment. ...

  • Page 6: Locating Controls And Connectors

    Locating Controls And Connectors Your computer may not be equipped with all of the hardware features listed in this section. To view the specific hardware configuration for your system, see the Specifications sheet.  Front Panel Overview  Back Panel Overview Page 6...

  • Page 7: Front Panel Overview

    ® i.LINK is a trademark of Sony used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE 1394 connection. The i.LINK connection may vary, depending on the software applications, operating system and compatible i.LINK devices. All products with an i.LINK connection may not communicate with each other.
  • Page 8 Floppy disk drive access indicator light Lights in green while reading and writing data from and to a floppy disk. Optical drive access indicator light Lights in amber while reading and writing data from and to the optical drives. Hard disk drive access indicator light Lights in amber while reading and writing data from and to the hard disk.

  • Page 9: Back Panel Overview

    Back Panel Overview The back panel of your computer contains the ports for supplied and optional accessories. The icons on the back panel locate and identify the ports on your computer. Back panel Mouse port Connection for a PS/2 mouse. ®...
  • Page 10 Connection for a telephone cable (optional) to the computer. i.LINK is a trademark of Sony used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE 1394 connection. The i.LINK connection may vary, depending on the software applications, operating system and compatible i.LINK devices. All products with an i.LINK connection may not communicate with each other.

  • Page 11: Setting Up Your Vaio Digital Studio Computer

    Setting Up Your VAIO Digital Studio Computer Your computer has many new and exciting features. This section contains information on setting up your computer and connecting peripheral devices.  To Set Up Your Computer  To Turn on Your Computer ...

  • Page 12: To Set Up Your Computer

    To Set Up Your Computer Your computer may not be equipped with the same hardware features shown in this section. See the Specifications sheet for your system's configuration. Page 12...
  • Page 13 Connecting a display (monitor) Plug the display cable into the Monitor port. If necessary, plug the display cable into the rear of the display. Connecting a display Install your equipment so that you can easily reach the power outlet in the event of an emergency. Page 13...
  • Page 14 Connecting the speakers Plug the cable attached to the left speaker into the L Out jack on the back of the right speaker. Plug the cable attached to the right speaker into the Headphones jack. Plug the jack end of the AC adapter cord into the DC In jack on the back of the right speaker and plug the other end into a grounded AC wall outlet or power strip.
  • Page 15 Connecting the keyboard and mouse Plug the keyboard cable into the Keyboard port on the back of the computer. Plug the mouse cable into the Mouse port. Connecting the keyboard and m ouse Page 15...
  • Page 16 Connecting the modem cable Unplug your telephone from the wall jack. Plug the modem cable (supplied) into the Modem line jack on the computer, and then plug the other end of the cable into the wall jack. Connecting the m odem cable Your computer has a protective sticker 10BASE-T and 100BASE-TX cables to the Ethernet port.
  • Page 17 Connecting the power cords Plug the power cord into the back of the computer. Plug both the display and power cords into a grounded AC wall outlet or a power strip. Connecting the power cords Page 17...

  • Page 18: To Turn On Your Computer

    To Turn on Your Computer Turning on your computer Press the power switch on the computer to turn on the power. Press the power switch on the display to turn on the power. Press the power switch on the right speaker to turn on the power. Turning on your com puter When you start your system for the first time, your computer may detect new equipment and display a dialog box that asks you to restart your computer.

  • Page 19: To Register Your Computer

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

  • Page 20: To Set Up Your Dial-Up Connection

    To Set Up Your Dial-up Connection The first time you turn your computer on, follow these steps to set up your dial-up connection: Click Start from the Windows taskbar and select All Programs. Point to Accessories, point to Communications, and then click New Connection Wizard. The Location Information window appears.
  • Page 21 Follow the on-screen instructions to finish setting up your dial-up connection. Page 21...

  • Page 22: To Set Up Power Management Modes

    Your computer may have difficulty resuming from a power-saving mode, if the power scheme is not set up correctly. Setting up your system's power management Sony recommends following these steps for optimum power management: Click Start in the Windows ®...

  • Page 23: To Shut Down Your Computer

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

  • Page 24: Configuring Your Vaio Computer

    This section provides basic information on maintaining your computer's hard disk drive performance, using i.LINK devices, and changing default settings.  About Your Hard Disk Drive Partition  i.LINK Compatibility  VAIO Action Setup  To Change the Sony Software Window Design Page 24...

  • Page 25: About Your Hard Disk Drive Partition

    To maintain optimum system performance, you should defragment your computer's D partition regularly. To improve the performance of Sony audio and video software applications, the hard disk drive on your computer has been formatted with two partitions, C and D. Some Sony software applications save files to the D partition. This prevents large video captures from consuming the available space on your C partition.
  • Page 26 Defragmenting your hard disk drive If you encounter frame dropping while recording digital video onto your hard disk drive, defragmentation may be necessary. Deactivate your screen saver and close other open applications, if applicable. Click Start in the Windows taskbar and select All Programs. Point to Accessories, point to System Tools, and then select Disk Defragmenter.

  • Page 27: Link Compatibility

    Your VAIO computer may include either 4-pin or 6-pin, or both types, of i.LINK ports. i.LINK is a trademark of Sony used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE 1394 connection. The i.LINK connection may vary, depending on the software applications, operating system and compatible i.LINK devices. All products with an i.LINK connection may not communicate with each other.
  • Page 28 Connecting an i.LINK (IEEE 1394) device Use the symbol to locate the i.LINK port on your compatible i.LINK device and on your computer. Plug the i.LINK cable connector into this port. Plug the other end of the cable into the corresponding 4- or 6-pin i.LINK port on your computer. See the instructions that came with your i.LINK device for more information on installation and use.

  • Page 29: Vaio Action Setup

    VAIO Action Setup VAIO Action Setup manages the settings for your computer's Shortcut keys (S Keys). ® Shortcut Keys The programmable S Keys are set to launch the following applications:  S1 — Microsoft Outlook Express ® ®  S2 — Microsoft Internet Explorer ®...
  • Page 30 Changing the settings of the S keys You can reprogram the S keys to launch other applications. Click Start in the Windows taskbar and select All Programs. Select VAIO Action Setup, then click VAIO Action Setup. You can also double-click Setup.

  • Page 31: To Change The Sony Software Window Design

    To Change the Sony Software Window Design You can select from different window designs for your Sony software and create your own personal computing environment. Page 31...
  • Page 32 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 Apply.

  • Page 33: About The Software On Your Computer

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

  • Page 34: Overview Of Preinstalled Software Applications

    DigitalPrint Sony Electronics Inc. This image management software makes it fun and easy to edit, import, and organize your digital pictures in a photo album for rich digital printing to any standard color laser or inkjet printer. Digital Print can also be used to make custom CD labels for your audio CDs.
  • Page 35 Sony Electronics Inc. Sony's original MovieShaker software creates personal movies that have transitions, background music, and text. Just import your video clips and "shake" with a click of the mouse. Your personal movies are easy to create and fun to share with family and friends.
  • Page 36 Smart Capture is a fun new way to send multimedia messages via e-mail. Smart Capture manages the i.LINK connection between your notebook and a Sony Digital Handycam Camcorder that supports the i.LINK interface. It allows you to capture compressed video or still images and save them to your hard disk drive or share via e-mail. A smart solution for computer, digital audio/video and network convergence.

  • Page 37: For Answers To Your Software Questions

    For Answers To Your Software Questions Check this support listing to locate support information for your computer's preinstalled software applications from the Internet, by e-mail, or by telephone. Your computer may not be supplied with all of the software applications listed, depending on the system configuration you purchased.
  • Page 38 RecordNow DX (VERITAS Software Corp.) Web site http://www.easy.co.jp/jrndx/sony telephone 800-326-9551 * T elephone s upport is provided by Sony. Sony Applications (Sony Electronics Inc.) Web site and Online support http://www.sony.com/pcsupport telephone 888-4-SONY-PC (888-476-6972) hours 7 days a week, 24 hours a day * Support from 8 8 8 -4 -SO N Y -P C is free of c harge for 9 0 days after the original date of purc has e.
  • Page 39 * Support from 6 1 3 -2 7 4 -0 5 0 0 is fee-bas ed. T he online s upport is free of c harge. Sony Service Center For the Sony Service Center nearest you, call 1-888-4-SONY-PC (1-888-476-6972). This service is free of charge for 90 days after the original date of purchase.

  • Page 40: System And Application Recovery Cd(S)

    System and Application Recovery CD(s) You can restore your system, individual software applications, or drivers, using the Recovery CDs.  To Use The System Recovery CD(s)  To Use The Application Recovery CD(s) Page 40...

  • Page 41: To Use The System Recovery Cd(S)

    The System Recovery CD can only be used to restore the hard disk drive of the Sony computer you purchased. The System Recovery process removes all software that you may have installed since you started using your computer.
  • Page 42 System Recovery options System drive recovery All data on Drive C is deleted. The factory default settings and software applications are restored on this drive only. Change partition size All partitions, custom installations, and changes are removed from the hard disk drive. You can set the partition sizes for both the Drive C and Drive D.
  • Page 43 Using the System Recovery CD(s) Your system may take a few minutes to load necessary files. A blue screen appears during the downloading process. Insert the System Recovery CD in your computer's optical drive. The System Recovery utility starts from the optical drive. The first CD must be in the drive when you turn on your computer.

  • Page 44: To Use The Application Recovery Cd(S)

    To Use The Application Recovery CD(s) The Application Recovery CD utility enables you to reinstall individual software applications, individual drivers, and to repair software applications if they become corrupted or are erased. You can reinstall a software application or driver to correct a problem that you are experiencing with your computer, peripheral hardware, or specific software application.
  • Page 45 If your system is equipped with two optical drives, insert the Application Recovery CD into the upper optical drive. When the Application Recovery menu appears, follow the on-screen instructions to complete the recovery process. If you have any questions about using the Application Recovery CD(s), visit http://www.sony.com/pcsupport, or contact Sony Customer Support at 1-888-4-SONY-PC. Page 45...
  • Page 46 Reinstalling device drivers Turn on your computer. If your computer is already on, close all applications. When the Windows desktop appears, insert the Application Recovery CD #1 into the optical disc drive. Click Start in the Windows taskbar and click Control Panel. The Control Panel window appears. Click Performance and Maintenance and click System.

  • Page 47: Frequently Asked Questions

    Frequently Asked Questions This section describes how to troubleshoot common problems you may encounter when using your computer. Many problems have simple solutions, so try these suggestions before using Support Resources.  About VAIO Digital Studio Computer Functions  About Changing Your System's Default Settings ...

  • Page 48: About Vaio Digital Studio Computer Functions

    About VAIO Digital Studio Computer Functions 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. ...
  • Page 49 taskbar appears when the cursor is placed over its location. Right-click on the taskbar and select Properties from the shortcut menu. Clear the check box for Autohide the taskbar, then click OK.  Use the mouse to locate a minimized taskbar by pointing to the left, right, top and bottom edges of the display screen.

  • Page 50: About Changing Your System's Default Settings

    You can change the parallel port type using the System Setup utility (CMOS Setup Utility). To access System Setup: Click Start in the Windows taskbar and select Turn Off Computer. Select Restart. When the Sony screen displays, press the F2 key on your keyboard. Select the Advanced tab from the Setup Utility screen.

  • Page 51: About Your System Recovery Cds

    About Your System Recovery CDs My files are corrupted or deleted. How do I recover software applications that came with my computer? To Use The Application Recovery CD(s) My drivers are corrupted or deleted. How do I recover drivers that came with my computer? To Use The Application Recovery CD(s) for more information.

  • Page 52: About Using The Optical Disk Drive(S)

    About Using The Optical Disk Drive(s) Your computer may not be equipped with all of the hardware features listed in this section. To view the specific hardware configuration for your system, see the Specifications sheet. Why doesn't my optical drive tray open? Use the Eject button Make sure the computer is turned on.
  • Page 53  Check the volume settings on your computer speakers.  Check the connections between your speakers and the computer.  Verify that drivers are installed properly, by following these steps: Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then select Control Panel. Click Performance and Maintenance and then click Systems.

  • Page 54: About The Preinstalled Software

    Why is my computer operating improperly after downloading the CD-burning feature of RealJukebox software? Sony does not guarantee the performance of the "Create CD" feature that is provided by the software, RealJukebox2 Basic for Sony. Some CD-ROM drives or drivers may experience problems when using this feature. For more information about this issue, visit the RealNetworks Service and Support Web site at http://service.real.com.

  • Page 55: About The Speakers

    About the Speakers Why is there no sound in any application?  Check that the speakers are plugged into the Headphones jack.  If your speakers have a mute button, verify that it is turned off.  If your speakers are powered by batteries, verify that the batteries are inserted properly and that they are charged.

  • Page 56: About The Modem

    Check that the access telephone number (POP) is correct.  All software applications that are preinstalled by Sony are compatible with your computer's modem. If you have installed other software, contact the software publisher for information on how to configure the software in order to recognize the modem.
  • Page 57 Select the Tone or Pulse option. Click OK. Page 57...

  • Page 58: About The Microphone

    About the Microphone Why doesn't my microphone work properly? Check that the microphone is plugged into the Microphone jack. Why is my microphone so 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: Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then click Control Panel.

  • Page 59: About The Mouse And Keyboard

    About the Mouse and Keyboard Why doesn't my mouse work properly?  Check that the mouse is plugged securely into the Mouse port.  Save and close all open applications. Turn off your computer, wait approximately 10 seconds, and then restart your computer.

  • Page 60: About Using A Peripheral Device

    About Using a Peripheral Device How do I install a printer?  If your printer has a USB, IEEE 1394, or infrared connection, contact the printer manufacturer for information or updates that may be required for proper installation.  Check the printer manufacturer's Web site for the latest drivers for your operating system before proceeding with installation.

  • Page 61: Notes On Use

    Notes on Use The information in this section provides basic procedures for handling your system and common peripheral devices, using storage media, and locating upgrade procedures. A support resource listing is also provided to help you locate the appropriate support options. ...

  • Page 62: About The Power Source

    About The Power Source Before opening your computer, turn the system off and let it cool down for 10 minutes. This protects you against internal components that may be too hot to handle.  Your computer operates on 100-120 V AC 50/60 Hz only. ...

  • Page 63: About Disposing Of The Lithium Battery

    Do not handle damaged or leaking lithium batteries. The lithium battery may explode if mistreated. Do not disassemble it or dispose of it in fire. Replace the battery with a Sony CR2032 lithium battery. Using a type of battery other than a CR2032 may present a risk of fire or explosion.

  • Page 64: About Handling The Computer System

    Your computer, keyboard, and mouse consist of high-precision electronic parts. Do not drop them or bump them against other objects.  Your Sony computer will not work with party lines, cannot be connected to a coin-operated telephone, and may not work with multiple telephone lines or a private branch exchange (PBX). ...

  • Page 65: About Upgrading Your Computer System

    About Upgrading Your Computer System The upgrading procedures described in the online manual, assume familiarity with the general terminology associated with personal computers and with the safety practices and regulatory compliance required for using and modifying electronic equipment.  Disconnect the system from its power source and from telecommunications links, networks, or modems before you open the system or follow any of the upgrading procedures described in the online manual.

  • Page 66: About Handling A Monitor (Display)

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

  • Page 67: About Dvd, Cd, And Floppy Disk Media

    About DVD, CD, and Floppy Disk Media Handling floppy disks  Do not open the shutter manually and touch the surface of the floppy disk.  Keep floppy disks away from magnets.  Keep floppy disks away from direct sunlight and other heat sources. Handling CD or DVD media ...

  • Page 68: Support Resources

    This service provides you with answers to commonly asked questions. You can use this automated service to request a list of available topics. Select the topics that you want to view. To contact the Sony fax-on-demand service, call 1-888-4-SONY-PC (1-888-476-6972). (Requires a fax machine or fax software.)

  • Page 69: Upgrading And Maintaining Your Vaio Digital Studio Computer

    For more information on upgrading your Sony computer, see the System Reference Manual. You can download the System Reference Manual from the Sony Computing Support Web site at http://www.sony.com/pcsupport.
  • Page 70 Overview The procedures in this section assume that you are familiar with the general terminology associated with personal computers and with the safety practices and regulatory compliance required for using and modifying electronic equipment. Before you upgrade your computer Disconnect the computer from its power source and from telecommunications links, networks, or modems before you open the unit or follow any of the procedures described in this section.

  • Page 71: To Remove The Side Panel

    To Remove the Side Panel Removing the side cover Shut down your computer, and turn off all peripheral devices, such as your printer. Unplug your computer and any peripheral devices. Locate the tab on the upper right side of the rear panel, and pull it back until the side cover releases. Lift the side cover away from the unit and set aside.

  • Page 72: To Install A Pci Add-On Card

    The length of the add-on card should not exceed 9.05 inches. Add-on card configuration varies by model. Some models, such as Configure-to-Order (CTO) systems, may contain preinstalled add-on cards. Observe the proper safety precautions when you add cards to your Sony computer. See your computer. Inserting an add-on card Shut down your computer and turn off all peripheral devices, such as your printer.
  • Page 73 Reconnect all peripheral devices, the power cord, and then turn on the computer. Page 73...

  • Page 74: To Install An Agp Add-On Card

    The length of the AGP card should not exceed 9.05 inches. Installing an AGP card disables the internal graphics. Your system supports graphics cards that use AGP 4X standards. Observe the proper safety precautions when you upgrade your Sony computer. See computer.

  • Page 75: To Install Memory

    For memory replacement or upgrades, use only 3.3V 64-bit PC-133 SDRAM Dual Inline Memory Modules (DIMM). You can purchase additional memory modules, accessories, and peripheral equipment from your local retailer. Observe the proper safety precautions when you add or remove memory in your Sony computer. See you upgrade your computer.
  • Page 76  Slide the power supply unit up until it clears the chassis.  Rotate the power supply to an upside down position and rest it on top of the chassis. Handle the DIMM only by the edges, and remove it from its anti-static package. Locate the notches on the bottom edge of the DIMM.

  • Page 77: To Replace The Lithium Battery

    Dispose of the lithium battery properly. In some areas, the disposal of lithium batteries in household or business trash may be prohibited. You can return your unwanted lithium batteries to your nearest Sony Service Center or Factory Service Center. To locate a Service Center near you, call 1-888-4-SONY-PC (1-888-476-6972).

  • Page 78: To Install An Additional Hard Disk Drive

    For detailed information on how to install additional drives, see the System Reference Manual. You can download the System Reference Manual from: http://www.sony.com/pcsupport. Make sure you observe the proper safety precautions when you upgrade your Sony computer. See upgrade your computer.
  • Page 79 Your new hard disk drive is supplied with the necessary screws. Do not overtighten the screws when securing the drive to the drive holder. Align the drive holder with the slots on the inside of the chassis and slide the drive holder in completely. 10.

  • Page 80: To Replace The Side Panel

    To Replace the Side Panel Replacing the side cover Align the tabs on the side cover to the chassis frame. Press the side cover firmly against the unit until it snaps into place. Replacing the side cov er Page 80...

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