Sony VPCF221FX/B User's Guide

NUser GuidePersonal ComputerVPCF2 Series

10nNBefore Use >Ergonomic Considerations❑ Viewing angle of the computer display – Use the display tilting feature to find the best position. You ca

100nNCustomizing Your VAIO Computer >Setting the PasswordTo remove the Windows password1 Click Start and Control Panel.2 Click User Accounts and Fa

101nNCustomizing Your VAIO Computer >Using the VAIO Control CenterUsing the VAIO Control CenterThe VAIO Control Center utility allows you to access

102nNCustomizing Your VAIO Computer >Using the VAIO Control CenterUsing S-FORCE Front Surround 3DS-FORCE Front Surround 3D is a virtual surround te

103nNCustomizing Your VAIO Computer >Using the VAIO Power ManagementUsing the VAIO Power ManagementPower management helps you set up power plans fo

104nNUpgrading Your VAIO Computer >Upgrading Your VAIO ComputerYour VAIO computer and memory modules use high precision components and electronic c

105nNUpgrading Your VAIO Computer >Adding and Removing MemoryAdding and Removing MemoryIf you want to expand the functionality of your computer, yo

106nNUpgrading Your VAIO Computer >Adding and Removing Memory❑ Do not open the memory module package before you are ready to change the module. The

107nNUpgrading Your VAIO Computer >Adding and Removing MemoryRemoving and Installing a Memory ModuleTo change or add a memory module1 Shut down the

108nNUpgrading Your VAIO Computer >Adding and Removing Memory6 Remove the currently installed memory module as follows:❑ Pull the latches in the di

109nNUpgrading Your VAIO Computer >Adding and Removing Memory8 Slide the memory module into the memory module slot and push it in until it clicks i

11nNGetting Started >Getting StartedThis section describes how to get started using your VAIO computer.!Before starting your computer for the first

110nNUpgrading Your VAIO Computer >Adding and Removing MemoryViewing the Amount of MemoryTo view the amount of memory1 Turn on the computer.2 Click

111nNPrecautions >PrecautionsThis section describes safety guidelines and precautions to help you protect your VAIO computer from potential damage.

112nNPrecautions >Safety InformationSafety InformationComputer❑ Use your computer on a solid, stable surface.❑ Do not use your computer directly on

113nNPrecautions >Safety InformationBattery Pack❑ Do not leave battery packs in temperatures above 140°F / 60°C, such as in a car parked in the sun

114nNPrecautions >Safety InformationHeadphones❑ Road safety – Do not use headphones while driving, cycling, or operating any motorized vehicle. It

115nNPrecautions >Care and Maintenance InformationCare and Maintenance InformationComputer❑ Clean the cabinet with a soft, dry or lightly moistened

116nNPrecautions >Handling Your ComputerHandling Your Computer❑ If you drop a solid object or any liquid onto your computer, shut down the computer

117nNPrecautions >Handling Your Computer❑ To avoid losing data when your computer is damaged, back up your data regularly.❑ Do not exert pressure o

118nNPrecautions >Handling the LCD ScreenHandling the LCD Screen❑ Do not leave the LCD screen facing the sun. This could damage the LCD screen. Be

119nNPrecautions >Using the Power SourceUsing the Power Source❑ Do not share an AC outlet with other power-consuming equipment, such as a photocopi

12nNGetting Started >Locating Controls and PortsLocating Controls and PortsTake a moment to identify the controls and ports shown on the following

120nNPrecautions >Handling the Built-in CameraHandling the Built-in Camera❑ Do not scratch or soil the area on and around the built-in camera, as i

121nNPrecautions >Handling DiscsHandling Discs❑ Fingerprints and dust on the surface of a disc may cause read errors. Be sure to hold the disc by i

122nNPrecautions >Using the Battery PackUsing the Battery Pack❑ Battery life is shorter in a cold environment. This is due to decreased battery eff

123nNPrecautions >Handling "Memory Stick"Handling "Memory Stick"❑ Do not touch the "Memory Stick" connector with your

124nNPrecautions >Handling the Built-in Storage DeviceHandling the Built-in Storage DeviceThe built-in storage device (hard disk drive or solid sta

125nNTroubleshooting >TroubleshootingThis section describes how to solve common problems you might encounter when using your VAIO computer. Many pr

126nNTroubleshooting >❑ Touch Pad (page 164)❑ Keyboard (page 165)❑ Floppy Disks (page 166)❑ Audio/Video (page 167)❑ "Memory Stick" (page

127nNTroubleshooting >Computer OperationsComputer OperationsWhat should I do if my computer does not start?❑ Make sure your computer is securely pl

128nNTroubleshooting >Computer OperationsWhat should I do if the green power indicator light turns on but my screen remains blank?❑ Press the Alt+F

129nNTroubleshooting >Computer OperationsWhat should I do if my computer or software stops responding?❑ If your computer stops responding while a s

13nNGetting Started >Locating Controls and PortsFrontA Built-in camera (page 44)B Built-in camera indicator (page 18)C Built-in microphone (monaura

130nNTroubleshooting >Computer OperationsWhy doesn't my computer enter Sleep or Hibernate mode?Your computer may become unstable if the operat

131nNTroubleshooting >Computer OperationsWhy does the System Properties window display a slower CPU speed than the maximum?This is normal. Because

132nNTroubleshooting >Computer OperationsHow can I change the boot device order?You can use one of the BIOS functions to change the boot device ord

133nNTroubleshooting >System Update / SecuritySystem Update / SecurityHow can I find important updates for my computer?You can find and install the

134nNTroubleshooting >Recovery / Recovery MediaRecovery / Recovery MediaHow can I create Recovery Media?You can create Recovery Media using the VAI

135nNTroubleshooting >Recovery / Recovery MediaHow do I check the volume of the recovery area?Your built-in storage device contains the recovery ar

136nNTroubleshooting >Recovery / Recovery MediaHow do I reduce the volume of the recovery area?Your built-in storage device contains the recovery a

137nNTroubleshooting >PartitionPartitionHow can I create a hard disk partition?The Windows feature allows you to create a partition without recover

138nNTroubleshooting >Battery PackBattery PackHow do I find the battery charging status? You can check the charge indicator for the battery chargin

139nNTroubleshooting >Battery PackCan my computer enter Hibernate mode while running on battery power? Your computer can enter Hibernate mode while

14nNGetting Started >Locating Controls and PortsA Charge indicator (page 18)B Disc drive indicator (page 18)C WIRELESS indicator (page 18)D "M

140nNTroubleshooting >Built-in CameraBuilt-in CameraWhy does the viewfinder show no images or poor-quality images?❑ The built-in camera cannot be s

141nNTroubleshooting >Built-in CameraWhat should I do if captured images contain dropped frames and audio interruptions?❑ The effect settings on yo

142nNTroubleshooting >Networking (LAN/Wireless LAN)Networking (LAN/Wireless LAN)What should I do if the VAIO Smart Network icon is not displayed on

143nNTroubleshooting >Networking (LAN/Wireless LAN)What should I do if my computer cannot connect to a wireless LAN access point?❑ Connection capab

144nNTroubleshooting >Networking (LAN/Wireless LAN)What should I do if I cannot access the Internet?❑ Check the access point settings. See the manu

145nNTroubleshooting >Networking (LAN/Wireless LAN)How do I avoid data transfer interruptions?❑ While your computer is connected to an access point

146nNTroubleshooting >BLUETOOTH TechnologyBLUETOOTH TechnologyWhat should I do if other BLUETOOTH devices cannot find my computer?❑ Make sure both

147nNTroubleshooting >BLUETOOTH TechnologyWhat should I do if other BLUETOOTH devices cannot connect to my computer?❑ Check the suggestions in What

148nNTroubleshooting >BLUETOOTH TechnologyCan I use a device with BLUETOOTH technology on airplanes?With BLUETOOTH technology, your computer transm

149nNTroubleshooting >Optical DiscsOptical DiscsWhy does my computer freeze when I try to read a disc?The disc that your computer is trying to read

15nNGetting Started >Locating Controls and PortsRightA Headphones/OPTICAL OUT jack (page 78)(Optical Output Sampling Rate: 44.1 KHz/48.0 KHz/96.0 K

150nNTroubleshooting >Optical DiscsWhat should I do if I cannot play a disc properly on my computer?❑ Make sure the disc is inserted into the optic

151nNTroubleshooting >Optical Discs4 Click Device Manager in the left pane.The Device Manager window appears with a listing of your computer's

152nNTroubleshooting >Optical DiscsWhat should I do if I cannot play Blu-ray Disc media or my computer becomes unstable during Blu-ray Disc playbac

153nNTroubleshooting >Optical DiscsWhy can't I write data to Blu-ray Disc media?❑ Check if your optical disc drive supports the Blu-ray Disc w

154nNTroubleshooting >DisplayDisplayWhy did my screen go blank?❑ Your computer screen may go blank if the computer loses power or enters a power sa

155nNTroubleshooting >DisplayWhat should I do if I do not see proper images or videos?❑ Be sure to select True Color (32 bit) for the display color

156nNTroubleshooting >DisplayWhat should I do if some items do not fit on the computer screen?Check that the text size is set to 100%. If not, some

157nNTroubleshooting >DisplayWhat should I do if 3D images are not displayed on my 3D TV connected to the HDMI output port?❑ Change the 3D playback

158nNTroubleshooting >DisplayWhy doesn't my screen display a video?❑ If the display output is directed to the external display and the externa

159nNTroubleshooting >DisplayWhat should I do if the external display remains blank?Press the Fn+F7 keys to change the display output. See Combinat

16nNGetting Started >Locating Controls and PortsLeftA Security slotB DC IN port (page 19)C Air ventD Monitor port (page 79)E HDMI output port*1 (pa

160nNTroubleshooting >PrintingPrintingWhat should I do if I cannot print a document?❑ Make sure your printer is on, and the printer cable is secure

161nNTroubleshooting >MicrophoneMicrophoneWhat should I do if my microphone does not work?❑ If you are using an external microphone, make sure the

162nNTroubleshooting >SpeakersSpeakersWhat should I do if I do not hear sound from the built-in speakers?❑ If you are using a program that has its

163nNTroubleshooting >SpeakersWhat should I do if my external speakers do not work?❑ Check the suggestions in What should I do if I do not hear sou

164nNTroubleshooting >Touch PadTouch PadWhat should I do if the touch pad does not work?❑ You may have disabled the touch pad. Press the Fn+F1 keys

165nNTroubleshooting >KeyboardKeyboardWhat should I do if the keyboard configuration is wrong?The language layout of your computer's keyboard

166nNTroubleshooting >Floppy DisksFloppy DisksWhy doesn't the Safely Remove Hardware and Eject Media icon appear on the taskbar when the drive

167nNTroubleshooting >Audio/VideoAudio/VideoWhat should I do if I cannot use my digital video camcorder?If a message appears stating that the i.LIN

168nNTroubleshooting >Audio/VideoWhat should I do if I do not hear the sound from the sound output device connected to the HDMI output port, optica

169nNTroubleshooting >Audio/VideoHow do I output the Dolby Digital or DTS sound through an S/PDIF-compatible device?To output the Dolby Digital or

17nNGetting Started >Locating Controls and PortsBack/Bottom A Air ventsB Memory module compartment cover (page 105)C Battery connector (page 21)

170nNTroubleshooting >"Memory Stick""Memory Stick"What should I do if I cannot use "Memory Stick" that was formatted

171nNTroubleshooting >PeripheralsPeripheralsWhat should I do if I cannot connect a USB device?❑ If applicable, check the USB device is turned on an

172nNTrademarks >Trademarks© 2011 Sony Electronics Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibi

173nNTrademarks >WinDVD is trademark of Corel Inc.PowerDVD is trademark of CyberLink.Inc.NVIDIA and 3D Vision are registered trademarks and/or trad

174nNTrademarks >"PlaceEngine" was developed by Sony Computer Science Laboratories, Inc. and is licensed by Koozyt, Inc."TransferJet

175nNNotice >Notice© 2011 Sony Corporation. All rights reserved.This manual and the software described herein, in whole or in part, may not be repr

© 2011 Sony Corporationn

18nNGetting Started >About the Indicator LightsAbout the Indicator LightsYour computer is equipped with the following indicator lights:Indicator Fu

19nNGetting Started >Connecting a Power SourceConnecting a Power SourceYou can use either an AC adapter or a rechargeable battery pack for supplyin

2nNContentsBefore Use... 4Finding More about Your VAIO Computer ...

20nNGetting Started >Connecting a Power Source✍To disconnect your computer completely from an AC power source, unplug the AC adapter from the AC ou

21nNGetting Started >Using the Battery PackUsing the Battery PackThe battery pack supplied with your computer is not fully charged at the time of d

22nNGetting Started >Using the Battery Pack3 Slide the battery pack diagonally into the battery compartment until the projection (2) on either side

23nNGetting Started >Using the Battery PackTo remove the battery pack!You will lose all unsaved data if you remove the battery pack while your comp

24nNGetting Started >Using the Battery PackCharging the Battery PackThe battery pack supplied with your computer is not fully charged at the time o

25nNGetting Started >Using the Battery Pack✍Keep the battery pack in your computer while it is directly connected to an AC power source. The batter

26nNGetting Started >Using the Battery PackChecking the Battery Charge CapacityThe battery charge capacity gradually decreases as the number of bat

27nNGetting Started >Using the Battery PackExtending the Battery LifeWhen your computer is running on battery power, you can extend the battery lif

28nNGetting Started >Shutting Down Your Computer SafelyShutting Down Your Computer SafelyTo avoid losing unsaved data, be sure to shut down your co

29nNGetting Started >Using the Power Saving ModesUsing the Power Saving ModesYou can take advantage of the power management settings to conserve ba

3nNPrecautions... 111Safety Information ...

30nNGetting Started >Using the Power Saving ModesUsing Sleep ModeTo activate Sleep modeClick Start, the arrow next to the Shut down button, and S

31nNGetting Started >Using the Power Saving ModesUsing Hibernate ModeTo activate Hibernate modePress the Fn+F12 keys.Alternatively, you can click S

32nNGetting Started >Keeping Your Computer in Optimum ConditionKeeping Your Computer in Optimum ConditionUpdating Your ComputerBe sure to update yo

33nNGetting Started >Keeping Your Computer in Optimum ConditionUsing the Antivirus Software for Your ComputerProtect your computer against computer

34nNGetting Started >Keeping Your Computer in Optimum ConditionUsing the VAIO CareWith the VAIO Care, you can regularly conduct performance checks

35nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using Your VAIO ComputerThis section describes how to get the most out of using your VAIO computer.❑ Using the Keyboa

36nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using the KeyboardUsing the KeyboardYour keyboard has additional keys that perform model-specific tasks.Combinations

37nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using the Keyboard Fn + /T (F7): display outputSwitches the display output between your computer screen and an exter

38nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using the KeyboardChanging the Backlit Keyboard SettingsSome features and options may not be available on your comput

39nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using the Touch PadUsing the Touch PadYou can point to, select, drag, and scroll objects on the screen using the touc

4nNBefore Use >Before UseCongratulations on your purchase of this VAIO® computer and welcome to the on-screen User Guide. Sony has combined leading

40nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using Special-function ButtonsUsing Special-function ButtonsYour computer is equipped with special buttons to help yo

41nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using Special-function ButtonsFunction Buttons Special-function button FunctionsASSIST button Launches the VAIO Care

42nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using the Quick Web Access FunctionUsing the Quick Web Access FunctionThe Quick Web Access function enables you immed

43nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using the Quick Web Access FunctionExiting the Quick Web Access Function!To launch the Windows operating system, you

44nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using the Built-in CameraUsing the Built-in CameraYour computer is equipped with a built-in camera.With the communica

45nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using the Optical Disc DriveUsing the Optical Disc DriveYour computer is equipped with an optical disc drive.Some fea

46nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using the Optical Disc Drive3 Place a disc in the middle of the drive tray with the label side facing upward and gent

47nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using the Optical Disc DriveSupported DiscsYour computer plays and records CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray Disc media, dependi

48nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using the Optical Disc Drive!This unit is designed to playback discs that conform to the Compact Disc (CD) standard.

49nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using the Optical Disc DriveNotes on Using the Optical Disc DriveNotes on writing data to a disc❑ Only use circular d

5nNBefore Use >Finding More about Your VAIO ComputerFinding More about Your VAIO ComputerThis section provides support information about your VAIO

50nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using the Optical Disc DriveNotes on region codesRegion code indicators are labeled on the discs or packages to indic

51nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using the Optical Disc DrivePlaying DiscsTo play a disc1 Insert a disc into the optical disc drive.!Connect the AC ad

52nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using the 3D FunctionUsing the 3D FunctionIf your computer is equipped with a 3D-capable LCD screen, you can use the

53nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using "Memory Stick"Using "Memory Stick""Memory Stick" is a compact, portable, and vers

54nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using "Memory Stick"Inserting and Removing "Memory Stick"To insert "Memory Stick"1 Loca

55nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using "Memory Stick"✍If "Memory Stick" does not go into the slot easily, remove it gently and ver

56nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using "Memory Stick"To remove "Memory Stick"!Do not remove "Memory Stick" while the &qu

57nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using "Memory Stick"Formatting "Memory Stick"To format "Memory Stick""Memory Stick

58nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using "Memory Stick"6 Click Start.7 Follow the on-screen instructions.!It may take time to format "Mem

59nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using "Memory Stick"Notes on Using "Memory Stick"❑ Your computer has been tested and found compat

6nNBefore Use >Finding More about Your VAIO Computer2. On-screen Documentation❑ VAIO User Guide — General information of your VAIO computer includi

60nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using Other Modules / Memory CardsUsing Other Modules / Memory CardsUsing the SD Memory CardYour computer is equipped

61nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using Other Modules / Memory CardsTo insert an SD memory card1 Locate the SD memory card slot.2 Hold the SD memory ca

62nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using Other Modules / Memory CardsTo remove an SD memory card1 Locate the SD memory card slot.2 Check that the SD mem

63nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using Other Modules / Memory CardsNotes on Using Memory CardsGeneral notes on using the memory card❑ Be sure to use m

64nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using the InternetUsing the InternetBefore using the Internet, you need to sign up with an Internet Service Provider

65nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using the Network (LAN)Using the Network (LAN)You can connect your computer to 1000BASE-T/100BASE-TX/10BASE-T type ne

66nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using the Wireless LANUsing the Wireless LANThe Wireless LAN (WLAN) allows your computer to connect to a network thro

67nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using the Wireless LANNotes on Using the Wireless LAN FunctionGeneral notes on using the wireless LAN function❑ In so

68nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using the Wireless LANNote on the data encryptionThe WLAN standard includes the encryption methods: Wired Equivalent

69nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using the Wireless LANStarting Wireless LAN CommunicationsYou first need to establish wireless LAN communications bet

7nNBefore Use >Finding More about Your VAIO Computer3. Support Web Sites❑ Sony online support web siteThe Sony online support web site provides ins

70nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using the Wireless LANStopping Wireless LAN CommunicationsTo stop wireless LAN communicationsClick the switch next to

71nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using the BLUETOOTH FunctionUsing the BLUETOOTH FunctionYou can establish wireless communications between your comput

72nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using the BLUETOOTH FunctionCommunicating with Another BLUETOOTH DeviceYou can connect your computer to a BLUETOOTH d

73nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using the BLUETOOTH FunctionTo communicate with another BLUETOOTH deviceTo communicate with another BLUETOOTH device,

74nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using the BLUETOOTH FunctionStopping BLUETOOTH CommunicationsTo stop BLUETOOTH communications1 Turn off the BLUETOOTH

75nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using the BLUETOOTH FunctionNotes on Using the BLUETOOTH Function❑ The data transfer rate varies, depending on the fo

76nNUsing Your VAIO Computer >Using the BLUETOOTH Function❑ The BLUETOOTH function may not work with other devices, depending on the manufacturer o

77nNUsing Peripheral Devices >Using Peripheral DevicesYou can add functionality to your VAIO computer by using the various ports on the computer.❑

78nNUsing Peripheral Devices >Connecting External Speakers or HeadphonesConnecting External Speakers or HeadphonesYou can connect external sound ou

79nNUsing Peripheral Devices >Connecting an External DisplayConnecting an External DisplaySome features and options in this section may not be avai

8nNBefore Use >Finding More about Your VAIO Computer4. Customer Information CenterIf you do not find the information you are looking for at our sit

80nNUsing Peripheral Devices >Connecting an External Display✍If necessary, connect the headphones jack on the projector and the headphones/OPTICAL

81nNUsing Peripheral Devices >Connecting an External DisplayConnecting a TV with an HDMI Input PortYou can connect a TV with an HDMI input port to

82nNUsing Peripheral Devices >Connecting an External Display✍See the manual that came with your TV for more information on installation and use.The

83nNUsing Peripheral Devices >Connecting an External DisplayPlaying Blu-ray 3D Disc mediaSome features and options may not be available on your com

84nNUsing Peripheral Devices >Connecting an External DisplayTo play Blu-ray 3D Disc media1 Follow the steps in To connect a TV to your computer (pa

85nNUsing Peripheral Devices >Connecting an External DisplayTo connect a high-quality digital sound output device between your computer and a TVYou

86nNUsing Peripheral Devices >Selecting Display ModesSelecting Display ModesWhen an external display is connected, you can select either your compu

87nNUsing Peripheral Devices >Using the Multiple Monitors FunctionUsing the Multiple Monitors FunctionThe Multiple Monitors function allows you to

88nNUsing Peripheral Devices >Using the Multiple Monitors FunctionTo use the Multiple Monitors function✍Your external display may not support the M

89nNUsing Peripheral Devices >Connecting an External MicrophoneConnecting an External MicrophoneYou can connect an external microphone (not supplie

9nNBefore Use >Ergonomic ConsiderationsErgonomic ConsiderationsYou will be using your computer as a portable device in a variety of environments. W

90nNUsing Peripheral Devices >Connecting a USB DeviceConnecting a USB DeviceYou can connect a Universal Serial Bus (USB) device, such as a mouse, a

91nNUsing Peripheral Devices >Connecting a USB DeviceNotes on connecting a USB device❑ You may need to install the driver software supplied with yo

92nNUsing Peripheral Devices >Connecting an i.LINK DeviceConnecting an i.LINK DeviceYour computer is equipped with an i.LINK port which you can use

93nNUsing Peripheral Devices >Connecting an i.LINK DeviceConnecting a Digital Video CamcorderTo connect a digital video camcorderPlug one end of an

94nNCustomizing Your VAIO Computer >Customizing Your VAIO ComputerThis section briefly describes how to change the main settings of your VAIO compu

95nNCustomizing Your VAIO Computer >Setting the PasswordSetting the PasswordSetting the password allows you to protect your computer from unauthori

96nNCustomizing Your VAIO Computer >Setting the PasswordSetting the Power-on PasswordTo add the power-on password (machine password)1 Turn on the c

97nNCustomizing Your VAIO Computer >Setting the PasswordTo add the power-on password (user password)!Make sure you set the machine password before

98nNCustomizing Your VAIO Computer >Setting the PasswordTo change or remove the power-on password (user password)1 Turn on the computer and press t

99nNCustomizing Your VAIO Computer >Setting the PasswordSetting the Windows PasswordTo add the Windows password1 Click Start and Control Panel.2 Cl