Sony VGX-XL2 Entertainment Guide PDF
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Summary of Content for Sony VGX-XL2 Entertainment Guide PDF
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VGX-XL2 Disclaimers, Notes, Warn NOTICE
2006 Sony Electronics Inc. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. All rights reserved manual and the software described herein, in whole or in part, may not be reproduced, translated, or reduced to any mac readable form without prior written approval.
SONY ELECTRONICS INC. PROVIDES NO WARRANTY WITH REGARD TO THIS MANUAL, THE SOFTWARE, OR OTHER INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN AND HEREBY EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ANY IMPLIE WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY PARTICULAR PURPOSE WITH REGARD TO THIS MANUAL, THE SOFTWARE, OR SUCH OTHER INFORMATION. IN NO EVENT SHALL SONY ELECTRONICS INC. BE LIABLE FOR ANY INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, OR SPECIAL DAMAGES, WHETHER BASED ON TORT, CONTR OR OTHERWISE, ARISING OUT OF OR IN CONNECTION WITH THIS MANUAL, THE SOFTWARE, OR OTHER INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN OR THE USE THEREOF.
SONY CANNOT WARRANT THAT THE FUNCTIONS DESCRIBED IN THIS GUIDE WILL BE UNINTERRUPTED OR ERROR-FREE. SONY ALSO ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY, AND SHALL NOT BE LIABLE ANY DAMAGES TO, OR VIRUSES THAT MAY INFECT, YOUR COMPUTER EQUIPMENT, OR OTHER PROPERTY ON ACCOUNT OF YOUR ACCESS TO, USE OF, OR BROWSING IN ANY DESCRIBED WEB SITE, OR YOUR DOWNLOA OF ANY MATERIALS, DATA, TEXT, IMAGES, VIDEO, OR AUDIO FROM ANY DESCRIBED WEB SITE. WEB SITE INFORMATION IS OBTAINED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES AND MAY BE INACCURATE. COPIES OF COPYRIGHTED INFORMATION MAY ONLY BE MADE FOR LEGALLY PERMISSIBLE PURPOSES.
Sony Electronics Inc. reserves the right to make any modification to this manual or the information contained herein at an without notice. The software described herein is governed by the terms of a separate user license agreement.
This product contains software owned by Sony and licensed by third parties. Use of such software is subject to the terms conditions of license agreements enclosed with this product. Some of the software may not be transported or used outsid United States. Software specifications are subject to change without notice and may not necessarily be identical to curren versions.
Certain product(s) included with this computer may include features such as copy protection and content management technology. USE OF THE SOFTWARE PRODUCT(S) REQUIRES AGREEMENT TO APPLICABLE END USER AGREEMENTS AND FULL COMPLIANCE WITH APPLICABLE PRODUCT ACTIVATION PROCEDURES. Product activation procedures and privacy policies will be detailed during initial launch of the software product(s), or upon certain reinstallations of the software product(s), or reconfigurations of the computer, and may be com by Internet or telephone (toll charges may apply). Updates and additions to software may require an additional charge. Subscriptions to online service providers may require a fee and credit card information. Financial services may require p arrangements with participating financial institutions.
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in software versions
to Server, VAIO Media ck Duo, the Memory f Sony.
poration.
rtainment value while holders or in the disc
Important information for Canadian customers: Your new Media Changer/Recorder includes certa or upgrades, and Internet services or offers that are available to U.S. customers only.
Sony, VAIO, the VAIO logo, VAIO Digital Studio, VAIO Media, VAIO Media Music Server, VAIO Media Pho Video Server, VAIO Zone, Click to DVD, DVgate Plus, Handycam, MagicGate, Memory Stick, Memory Sti Stick logo, SonicStage, PictureGear, ImageStation, and i.LINK are trademarks or registered trademarks o
Intel and Pentium are trademarks or registered trademarks of the Intel Corporation.
Microsoft, Windows, and the Windows logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of the Microsoft Cor
PS/2 is a registered trademark of the IBM Corporation.
Attention Regarding DualDisc software: This product has been engineered to provide the highest ente playing standard CD and DVD discs. DualDisc used with this product may jam in the slots or racks of disc consoles and should not be used with this product.
All other trademarks are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.
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Contents
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Overview Welcome ...................................................................................................................... What is VGX-XL2? ....................................................................................................... Benefits of the VGX-XL2 .............................................................................................. VGX-XL2A Features .................................................................................................... VGP-XL1B Features .................................................................................................... Getting Started .............................................................................................................
Using the Remote Control .................................................................................... Using the Wireless Keyboard ............................................................................... Getting Around Media Center ............................................................................... Adding files to Media Center ................................................................................ Using the Search Feature ..................................................................................... Support Resources ...............................................................................................
Media Center Setup Settings ........................................................................................................................
General ................................................................................................................. Start Up and Window Behavior ...................................................................... Visual and Sound Effects ............................................................................... More Programs Options ................................................................................. Media Center Setup .......................................................................................
Set Up Internet Connection ..................................................................... Set Up TV Signal .....................................................................................
Set Up Your Speakers .................................................................................................... 40 .... 41 .... 42 .... 43 .... 44 .... 45 ... 46 .... 47 .... 48 .... 49 .... 50 .... 51 .... 52 .... 53 .... 54 .... 55 .... 56 .... 57 .... 58 .... 59 .... 60 ... 61 .... 62 .... 63 .... 64 .... 65 .... 66 .... 67 .... 68 .... 69 .... 70
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Configure Your TV or Monitor ..................................................................................... Set Up Remote Desktop ............................................................................................. Automatic Updates ...................................................................................................... Join Wireless Network ................................................................................................. Run Media Center Setup Again .................................................................................. Restore Start Page Defaults ........................................................................................ Parental Controls ........................................................................................................ Automatic Download Options ...................................................................................... Optimization ................................................................................................................ About Media Center .................................................................................................... Privacy ........................................................................................................................
TV ............................................................................................................................................. Recorder ............................................................................................................................
History ......................................................................................................................... Recorder Storage ........................................................................................................ Recording Defaults ......................................................................................................
Guide ................................................................................................................................. Edit Channels .............................................................................................................. Add Missing Channels ................................................................................................ Set Up Guide Listings ................................................................................................. Additional Guide Information........................................................................................
Set Up TV Signal ............................................................................................................... Configure Your TV or Monitor ............................................................................................ Audio .................................................................................................................................
Pictures .................................................................................................................................... Music ........................................................................................................................................
Visualizations ..................................................................................................................... Visualizations Options .......................................................................................................
DVD .......................................................................................................................................... DVD Language ..................................................................................................................
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DVD Audio .............................................................................................................................71 ........................72 ........................73 ........................74 ........................75
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Closed Captioning .......................................................................................... Remote Control Options .................................................................................
Messenger and Caller ID Settings ........................................................................ Help ......................................................................................................................
Media Center Features Overview ...................................................................................................................... Experience Media Center ............................................................................................. My DVDs ......................................................................................................................
Loading and Unloading Discs ............................................................................... Viewing DVD Movies ............................................................................................ DVD Movie Controls ............................................................................................. Helpful Hints .........................................................................................................
Online Spotlight ............................................................................................................ My Videos ....................................................................................................................
Organize Your Videos Media Center .................................................................... Play Your Videos .................................................................................................. More Information .................................................................................................. Create a DVD/CD ................................................................................................. Import/Edit Video .................................................................................................. Helpful Hints .........................................................................................................
My Pictures .................................................................................................................. Organize Your Pictures ........................................................................................ View Your Pictures ............................................................................................... Edit Your Pictures ................................................................................................. Play a Slide Show ................................................................................................. Create a CD/DVD ................................................................................................. Picture Details ...................................................................................................... Helpful Hints .........................................................................................................
My TV ................................................................................................................................................ 104 .. 105 .. 106 .. 107 .. 108 .. 109 .. 110 .. 111 .. 112 .. 113 .. 114 .. 115 .. 116 .. 117 .. 118 .. 119 .. 120 .. 121 .. 122 .. 123 .. 124 .. 125 .. 126 .. 127 .. 128 .. 129
.. 131
.. 133
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My TV Features ........................................................................................................................ Watch Live TV .......................................................................................................................... View the Guide ......................................................................................................................... Guide Helpful Hints .................................................................................................................. Record and Schedule Programs .............................................................................................. Record and Schedule Helpful Hints ......................................................................................... Watch Recorded Programs ...................................................................................................... Search for a Program ............................................................................................................... Search for a Feature Movie ......................................................................................................
My Music ......................................................................................................................................... Organize Your Music Files ....................................................................................................... Play Music ................................................................................................................................ Queue Music ............................................................................................................................ Add Music ................................................................................................................................ Create and Organize Playlists .................................................................................................. Helpful Hints .............................................................................................................................
Create DVD ..................................................................................................................................... Main Screen .............................................................................................................................
My Changer ..................................................................................................................................... My Changer Music ................................................................................................................... Copy Music .............................................................................................................................. Copy Music Helpful Hints ......................................................................................................... Archive TV ................................................................................................................................ Archive TV Helpful Hints ..........................................................................................................
More Programs ................................................................................................................................ Manage Discs 130
Manage Discs: Media Types ............................................................................................. More Programs: Helpful Hints ...........................................................................................
1
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Welcome to the VGX-XL2: Sonys Digit
VAIO PC VGX-
Welcome The VGX-XL2 is both a po computer and a state-of-th entertainment system.
Let VGX-XL2 lead you into world of VAIO where new established for digital cont management.
The design of VGX-XL2 a easily fit into any decor, th your video, audio, and Inte experience by bringing po capabilities to your home t the comfort of your living r
What is VGX-XL2?........................ 2
What are the Benefits ................. 3
What are the Features ................. 4
Getting Started ............................ 6
Using the Remote Control .......... 7
Using the Wireless Keyboard ..... 8
Getting Around Media Center .... 9
Adding Files to Media Center ..... 10
Using the Search Feature ........... 11
Support Resources ..................... 12
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2
What is VGX-XL2? The VGX-XL2 is composed of two products combined to bring you the ultimate experience in digital home entertainment.
VGX-XL2 works just like any other computer, EXCEPT IT OFFERS MORE! More of the latest technology and excellence you have come to expect from Sony.
XL2A XL1B
Controls the combined products 200 disc Media Changer/Recorder
Leverages the latest Intel components Burning of content to optical media
Uses the latest Microsoft Windows XP Media Center operating system
Storage, archiving, and playback o your CD/DVD library
Offers High Definition connectivity for Sony HD Camcorders
Easily connects to the XL2A comp through a single i.LINK cable
What is VGX-XL2?
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t Microsoft system advanced
r media library and your
M copying.
ny HD
iving through D.
-XL2
Sony establishes new standards in video and audio home entertainme content management with the VGX-XL2 Digital Living System.
Playback and manage your entire media library through your home theatre, using a remote control or wireless keyboard. View it all on your TV or monitor for the optimal entertainment experience.
Packaged Content Music CDs Movie DVDs
Personal Content Digital Pictures HD Camcorder Mini DV Camcorder
Internet Content downloaded Music Movies Pictures Recorded TV Streaming Video
Full Digital Living System fu the living room or den.
Operates using the lates Windows XP operating (MCE) augmented with VAIO functionality.
Enjoy the content of you through your TV/monitor home theatre.
Multi-disc audio CD-RO
Multi-disc DVD burning.
HD connectivity with So Camcorder.
Simplified TV series arch sequential copying to DV
Benef i ts of the VGX
A
RAID.
ry. files,
ernet.
nput.
4
The XL2A is equipped with the following additional features:
The XL2A is a technologically advanced and powerful computer that will be right at home in your living room or den. Surf the Internet, download music and movies, record TV, watch videos, make copies of media files, and more all managed using the wireless keyboard w/intragrated pointing device and the remote control.
Cutting Edge IT Architecture Pentium D, DDR 2 RAM, PCI-E graphics, S-AT drives, RAID enabled, and multitasking.
High Storage Capacity Internal storage to 1.5 TB (one trillion bytes) w/
Enhanced Connectivity PC, wired, and wireless connectivity.
Combination Optical Drive Allows for fast disk access and System Recove Note: This drive is read only, not write. To write use the Media Changer/Recorder.
Enhanced Remote Control Control MCE features, including surfing the Int
Improved Web Surfing Remote Control navigation and alphanumeric i
VGX-XL2A Features
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The VGP-XL1B is equipped with the following additional features:
Note: Sony supports connecting or daisy-chaining up to five (5) Sony VGP-XL1B Ch Recorders. For additional information about daisy-chaining, see the VGP-XL1B Use included with the Sony CD/DVD Changer/Recorder packaging.
The VGP-XL1B is a disc media changer and recorder with an impressive ability to store 200 CD/DVD media discs. Enjoy a media library where you can view your DVD movies, listen to your CDs and have access to enhanced VAIO software that lets you do multi-disc ripping of CDs and burning of CD/DVDs.
Disc Media Storage 200 Disc capacity.
Disc Media Support CD-R, CD-RW, DVD+/-R/RW, DVD+R DL D media, Redbook Audio CDs, Movie DVDs (U
Note: This unit does not support DualDisc
Ease of Use Simple iLINK connection to XL2A. Customi featuresinclude Manage Discs and My Cha
Remote Control Specific remote-control-friendly operations.
VGP-XL1B Featu
tem ures
e to
6
VGX-XL2 uses the Microsoft Windows XP Media Center Edition operating sys (MCE). This version has all of the features and capabilities of other XP operating systems, with one major differenceMedia Center. This group of advanced feat takes you into the world of digital home entertainment, bringing all of your entertainment sources together in a single location, easily managed by the VAIO remote control or the VAIO wireless keyboard.
This guide will focus on the living room experience, using Media Center and th remote control to perform all tasks. The next few pages provide examples of how get around and perform tasks in Media Center. Then, you will be guided through setting up Media Center, and finally an overview of available features.
This guide provides an overview of Media Center and additional advanced features unique to VGX-XL2 Digital Living System.
Gett ing Star ted
7
ol
Press a Remote Control button to do the following:
Start MY TV, MY MUSIC, MY PICTURES, MY VIDEO in Media Center. Press STANDBY to place your computer in Standby mode.
Control the playback for TV, MUSIC, VIDEOS, and ends a slide show. Buttons include: STOP, PAUSE, FWD, SKIP, REPLAY, REW, and RECORD. The right arrow button serves as a PLAY button.
Use the arrow buttons to move to a specific location, the OK button to make your selection, the BACK button to go to the previous screen, and the MORE button to view additional information.
Use the START button to open Media Center. Volume Controls (VOL) are on the left and Channel (CH) or Page (PG) on the right of the START button. A MUTE button is also provided to suppress sound. To preset the MCE remote control for TV volume, do the following: 1. Locate the input code by selecting your specific manufacturer.
MCE (RC6) Default: 01 Sony: 02 Samsung: 03,05,06,08,11 or 13 Toshiba: 07 or 09 Panasonic: 04 or 10 Sharp: 07 or 12
2. On the remote control, press and hold the OK button. Then type the input code number.
Open the following screens RECORDED TV, GUIDE, LIVE TV, DVD MENU. (DVD MENU is available only when Media Center is active.)
Use these buttons to change channels and enter text or numbers in a specific location.
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2
3
4
5
6
1
2
3
4
5
6
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8
Below is a picture of your wireless keyboard and built-in touch pad (mouse) with specialized functions identified.
Before using the keyboard, you must activate communication between the comp and the keyboard. Please complete the following steps for keyboard installation.
Step 1: Insert the batteries Step 2: Activate Communication
Turn the keyboard over Slide the Power button to On
Open the battery compartment Turn the keyboard over
Insert supplied batteries as indicated Slide Pointing Device button to O
Replace battery compartment cover Press Connect on computerand o back of keyboard at the same time Return keyboard to its upright position
Using the Wire less Keyboard
9
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nter
From inside Media Center:
Select this... To do this...
Start Media Center and return to Start menu.
Close Media Center. Options for close include Media Center, Log Off, Shut Down, Restart, and Standby.
Open Media Center Help.
Press an arrow to move to a specific command or opti Then press OK to make your selection.
Highlighted command button - Performs a function.
Green Highlight - Indicates selected object. Press OK.
Option button - Highlight, then press OK to select.
Minus/Plus button - Press OK for more options in a lis
Check boxes - Highlight, then press OK to select.
Gett ing Around Media Ce
ers. sing the
dia ust
10
You can add media files to recognized folders in the following ways: Copy files or folders directly to recognized folders using Windows Explorer. Download media files (Internet, Music CDs, Video) directly to recognized fold Add additional folders, or shared folders for Media Center to recognize by pres
the MORE button and selecting Add Pictures/Videos/Music/Recording from menu. Then follow the on-screen instructions.
In order to access your media files to view pictures, videos, recorded TV, or listen to music you must place the files in a folder recognized by Media Center. Media Center recognizes the following folders located in the My Documents directory.
Note: The Recorded TV folder may be located in a separate partition on your hard drive.
Each time you open My Pictures, My Videos, or My Music a message appears asking if you would like to add new media files. You must respond to continue. To add files, select Yes and follow the on-screen instructions. This method will allow you to add folders, not individual files for Me Center to recognize. If you select the Dont ask me this again check box, you m add media files by pressing the MORE button and selecting the Add menu command.
Adding f i les to Media Center
11
ou scroll
ble for that ppears. When
s the CH/PG+
.
the remote.
ture
Each time you press a button on the numeric keypad on the remote, y through the characters that are available for that button.
Press a number repeatedly to scroll through the choices that are availa number. With each repeated press of a number, a different character a entering text, you can also do the following:
To switch between uppercase, lowercase, and symbol modes, pres or CH/PG- button on the remote.
To backspace, press the CLEAR button on the remote.
To enter a space between words, press the (0) button on the remote
When you find the character you want, press the ENTER button on
In Media Center, you can search through the TV listings or your media library to find just the right TV show or movie to watch, or just the right song to listen tooall by remote control.
Use the keypad on the remote control to enter text, much like you would using an address book on a cellular phone.
Using the Search Fea
ures.
ted tton.
e.
12
Note: You must be connected to the Internet to access some of the VAIO Support Central feat
VAIO Support Central provides you with a single location for all of your support needs and allows you to easily access valuable support and technical information from Sony and Microsoft.
Keep your VAIO computers system software and operating system updated using VAIO Web Support and Microsoft Update.
For additional setup instructions and detailed information about the complete VGX-XL2 Digital Living System, go the VAIO Support Central and access the VGX-XL2 User Guide.
To access VAIO Support Central, do the following: 1 Using your wireless keyboard with intragra
pointing device, click the Windows Start bu
2 From the Start menu, click All Programs.
3 From the All Programs menu, click VAIO Support Central.
4 Select VAIO Documentation in the left pan
Support Resources
13
s XP Media Center
together in a r your distinct jor features.
Welcome to Sony VAIO and Microsoft Window
With VAIO and Media Center, you can bring all of your entertainment sourcesTV, Recording, Music, Pictures, CD/DVD Player, Internet single location. This guide will assist you in setting up Media Center fo entertainment needs, and then provide you with an overview of the ma
Media Center Setup Sony VAIO and Microsoft Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005 lets you do amazing things with your VAIO Digital Living System personal computer. With a full range of powerful, yet easy-to-use digital entertainment features, you can experience TV, movies, music, and photos like never before.
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14
Start Menu | Settings
Settings Once you have set up your computer and ha connected the Media Changer/Recorder and additional hardware devices, you are ready t set up your Media Center preferences.
The first time you start Media Center, a setup wizard (a series of setup screens) opens. T enjoy the full benefit of Media Center, it is bes complete all screens. You may return to Sett at any time to change your preferences.
Please note: The Media Center setup wizar requires an Internet connection to complete process. Also, remember to check for Windo updates before you begin to make sure Med Center has the most recent software and security updates.
Note: The Media Center Radio feature is not supported by Sony VAIO.
General........................... 15
TV..................................... 34
Pictures........................... 47
Music............................... 48
DVD................................. 51
Messenger and Caller ID 56
Help................................. 57
15
Settings | General
a series of enter and for your
time to ettings improve your
Start Menu |
General The General settings are options that effect Media C some general preferences computer.
You might want to take the review all of the General s options to see what might entertainment experience.
Start Up and Window Behavior... 16
Visual and Sound Effects............ 17
More Programs Options.............. 18
Media Center Setup..................... 19
Parental Controls......................... 47
Automatic Downloads Options... 48
Optimization................................. 49
About Media Center..................... 50
Privacy.......................................... 51
n. ark).
16
Start Menu | Settings | General
Use the arrow keys on your remote control to move to the buttons for each optio Press the OK button to select (add a check mark) or deselect (remove a check m When finished, select Save.
Start Up and Window Behavior Decide how Media Center starts and reacts to your environment. You can determine if Media Center:
is always the top window.
will warn you if a file or action is not designed for Media Center.
starts when Windows starts.
shows task bar notification.
shows TV tips.
Set Up and Window Behavior
17
Settings | General
ach option. a check mark). press the OK
ects
Start Menu |
Use the arrow keys on your remote control to move to the buttons for e Press the OK button to select (add a check mark) or deselect (remove To change the video background color, select the (+) or (-) button and button. When finished, select Save.
Visual and Sound Effects Adding visual and sound effects can add a new dimension to your entertainment enjoyment.
Here you can add transition animations, play sounds when navigating Media Center, and even change your video background color.
(Background colors include Black, White and various shades of Gray.)
Visual and Sound Ef f
n. ark).
18
Start Menu | Settings | General
Use the arrow keys on your remote control to move to the buttons for each optio Press the OK button to select (add a check mark) or deselect (remove a check m When finished, select Save.
More Programs Options Media Center has teamed with other applications and Internet sites to not only make your entertainment experience better, but to also make it easier to create media, and to have access to more entertainment information.
You can control the media experience in and which applications you can access from within Media Center.
More Programs Opt ions
19
Settings | General
edia Center, etup wizard ill help you
ia Center so ertainment complete ted to you.
llow for direct overed by the you to modify ring the initial esired.
Start Menu |
Media Center Setup The first time you open M you are presented with a s (a series of screens) that w set up preferences in Med you could control your ent experience. It is best if you each screen as it is presen
The topics in this section a access to specific areas c setup wizard. This allows any selection you made du setup of Media Center, if d
Set Up Internet Connection........ 20
Set Up TV Signal.......................... 21
Set Up Your Speakers................. 40
Configure Your TV or Monitor... 41
Set Up Remote Desktop............. 42
Automatic Updates...................... 43
Join Wireless Network................. 44
Run Media Center Setup Again... 45
Restore Start Page Defaults....... 46
ton
20
Start Menu | Settings | General | Media Center Setup
Set Up Internet Connection Media Center makes it easy to set up your Internet connection. Just read the on-screen information and answer a few questionsMedia Center does the rest!
The first thing you need to know is if your Internet connection is always on. If it is, select Yes and then Next. The computer will detect the signal and finish most of the setup for you. If not, follow the on-screen instructions.
Use the arrow keys on your remote control to move the Yes or No option. Press the OK but to select the option. Select Next to continue.
Set Up Internet Connect ion
21
edia Center Setup
l. able from your and/or record nter features.
the cable from NTSC analog p box or from
XL2 computer, is within dis-
gnal
Start Menu | Settings | General | M
Important Notes about your TV connection and TV signa If you are a cable user and do not have a set top box, connect the c
wall to the NTSC analog tuner on the XL2 computer. You can watch TV directly from Media Center and take advantage of the Media Ce
If you are a cable user with a set top box or a satellite user, connect your wall to the set top box and the cable from the set top box to the tuner on the XL2 computer. You can view TV directly from the set to Media Center.
If you connected an ATSC antenna to the ATSC digital tuner in the you can receive over-the-air high definition signalsif your antenna tance of local broadcasts and free of interference.
Set Up TV Signal The next few pages will guide you through steps for setting up your tuners to receive a TV signalboth analog (standard definition) using the NTSC TV tuner, and digital (high definition) using the ATSC digital TV tuner in your XL2A computer.
Set Up TV Si
High-Definition Note: ion vice ing
and n d
dia
22
Media Center currently supports free ATSC over-the-air high-definition televis signals only for high-definition viewing. It does not support subscription-based (digital cable or satellite) high-definition service. If you have high-definition ser and wish to view high-definition programming, you should watch that programm through the service's settop box directly connected to your television set, not through Media Center. The video inputs of XL2 computer system only handle analog signals. Any connection between a high-definition capable set-top box Media Center in the XL2 computer system would result in a standard resolutio image. The qualities of high-definition programming through subscription-base services are lost. You can still record high-definition programming through Me Center; however, the resulting recordings can only be viewed in standard resolution image.
The following Setup Wizard will configure both your analog and digtial signals.
Using Media Center to set up required components
Welcome
1 Start Media Center.
From the Windows toolbar, select Start, and then select
The Media Center Setup Wizard appears. Please read each screen carefully. Select Next to continue.
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Media Center Setup
This screen informs you that there are two separate sections that must be completed to set up your TV signal. You will now start Section 1: Required Setup
2 Select Next to continue.
Media Center Privacy Policy
This screen allows you to access and read Microsofts Media Center Privacy Policy statement.
3 Read the policy statement, and then select Next to continue.
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Help Improve Media Center
This screen gives you the opportunity to join Microsofts Customer Experience Improvement Program for Media Center.
4 Select Yes or No, and then select Next to continue.
Enhanced Playback
From this screen you make the selection to download additional music and movie information, and TV Guide listings from the Internet.
5 Select Yes, and then select Next to continue.
25
Join Wireless Network
From this screen, select whether or not you would like the XL2 computer to be a part of an existing network.
6 Select Yes or No, and then select Next to continue.
Internet Connection
From this screen, you let the Setup Wizard know that you have an always on Internet connection.
7 Select Yes, and then select Next to continue.
26
Test Your Internet Connection
This screen allows Media Center to test your Internet connection for proper operation.
8 Select Test. When the test is complete, select Next to continue.
Required Components set up
This screen confirms that the Required Components have been set up correctly. Make sure the screen displays Enhanced Playback and Internet Connection.
9 Select Next to continue.
27
Optional Setup
IMPORTANT: When the Optional Setup screen appears, make sure you select the I am finished option.
10 Select the option I am finished and then select Next to continue.
You Are Done!
This completes Section 1: Required Setup. You are now ready to continue to Section 2: Optional Setup to set up your TV.
11 Click Finish to return to the Start menu.
you ings.
28
Using Media Center to set up Your TV
After setting up the required components (see the previous steps 1 through 11), are now ready to continue to the next section and set up your TV and Guide sett
1 Start Media Center.
From the Windows toolbar, select Start, and then select
From the Media Center Start menu, select Settings.
Settings menu
2 From the Settings menu screen, select TV.
29
TV Settings menu
3 From the TV Settings menu screen, select Set Up TV Signal.
TV Signal Setup
This screen displays a TV Signal Setup message. Please read this important message in its entirely.
4 Select Yes to continue.
30
Set Up Your TV Signal
You are now ready to begin configuring your TV signal to work with Media Center.
5 Select Next to continue.
Confirm Your Region
On this screen, make sure that United States displays as the current region.
6 Select Yes, use this region to configure TV services, and then select Next to continue.
31
Automatic TV Signal Setup
This screen lets you choose to automatically or manually configure your TV signal.
IMPORTANT STEP 7 Select I will manually
configure my TV signal and then select Next to continue.
Select Your TV Signal
On this screen, you tell the Setup Wizard what type of TV signal you have. Also note that if you have a standard TV signal and you have installed a digital antenna, the antenna signal will be configured later in this process.
8 Select Cable/Satellite, and then select Next to continue.
32
Do You Have a Set-top Box?
From this screen, you tell the Setup Wizard if you are using a set-top box supplied by your provider.
9 Select Yes/No, and then select Next to continue.
Connect Your Digital TV Antenna
This screen allows you to confirm whether or not you have installed a digital TV antenna.
10 Select Yes/No, and then select Next to continue.
33
You Are Done!
You have completed the configuration of your TV signal. Now you can configure your TV Program Guide listings settings.
11 Select Set Up Guide listings, and then select Next to continue.
Set Up Your TV Program Guide
12 Select Next to set up to download and view your TV Program Guide listings from the XL2 computer.
34
Guide Privacy
From this screen, you can access the Guide Privacy statement, and indicate if you want to use the TV Guide.
13 Select Yes, and then select Next to continue.
Guide Terms of Service
This screen lets you read, and agree to, the Guide Terms of Service.
14 Select I agree, and then select Next to continue.
35
Enter Your ZIP Code
Your ZIP Code is used to determine the correct Guide listings for your area.
15 Enter your Zip Code in the box as indicated by the example, and select Next to continue.
Download Provider Information
Information about your local TV signal provider is now needed.
16 The Setup Wizard will automatically connect to the Internet and download this information.
36
Download Provider Information
When the required information about your local TV signal provider has been downloaded, a Download complete message appears.
17 Select Next to continue.
Select TV Signal Provider
This screen displays a list of local providers in your area.
18 Select your provider from the list, and then select Next to continue.
37
Download TV Program Guide Information
This screen displays a status bar showing the progress of the TV Program Guide download.
Download TV Program Guide Information
When all TV Program Guide listings have been downloaded, a Download complete message appears.
19 Select Next to continue.
38
Digital TV Antenna Signal Strength
If you previously indicated you installed an over-the-air digital antenna, the Setup Wizard will now test the signal strength.
20 Select Next to continue.
Adjust Digital TV Antenna and Choose Channels
This screen shows available digital TV channels and their associated signal strength.
21 Clear (select) a check box to remove unwanted channels, and then select Next to continue.
39
You Are Done!
When you are satisfied with your digital channel selections and associated signal strengths, you are done.
22 Select Finish to exit the Setup Wizard.
ers
40
Start Menu | Settings | Media Center Setup
After the test, select whether or not you heard sound coming from all your speak and select Next to continue. If the test was successful, youre done! If not, Media Center will provide you with additional setting options.
Installation Note: For the best possible sound, use the HDMI cable (if possible) when connecting your speakers.
Set Up Your Speakers Media Center makes it easy to set up your speakers for your listening pleasure. Just read the on-screen information and answer a few questionsMedia Center does the rest!
Media Center will ask you for the number (or type) of speakers you have and then you can select the Test button to make sure your speakers are working correctly.
Set Up Your Speakers
41
edia Center Setup
i tor
Configure Your TV or Monitor Settings Media Center makes it easy to configure your TV / monitor. Just read the on-screen information and answer a few questions Media Center does the rest!
Select Watch Video or Next to continue.
A video is provided that contains additional information on setting up your display and improving the quality of your video viewing.
For additional information on setting up your TV, please refer to the VGX-XL1 User Guide located in VAIO Support Central. Go to Start | All Programs | VAIO Support Central and select VAIO Documentation.
Conf igure Your TV or Mon
42
Start Menu | Settings | Media Center Setup
Set Up Remote Desktop Media Center makes it easy for you to access your Media Center personal computer remotely. Just follow the on-screen information and answer a few questions Media Center does the rest!
Select Next to Continue.
Set Up Remote Desktop
43
edia Center Setup
control to he OK button continue.
ates
Start Menu | Settings | M
.
Automatic Updates Media Center can help you keep your computer secure and running efficiently by automatically downloading and installing critical updates from Microsoft.
You should also continue to check for additional software and driver updates on a regular basis by selecting Windows Update from the Start | All Programs menu.
Use the arrow keys on your remote move the Yes or No option. Press t to select the option. Select Next to
Automat ic Upd
A:
44
Start Menu | Settings | Media Center
You must already have a working wireless local area network to use this feature. Selections made on these screens may overwrite your existing wireless network settings. Please follow the on-screen instructions carefully.
Note: For additional information about connecting to your existing home network, see Appendix Wireless Local Area Network in the VGX-XL2 User Guide located on the VAIO Documentation screen of VAIO Support Central.
Join Wireless Network The advanced features of Media Center and the Digital Living System personal computer let you easily connect to an existing wireless local area network.
Media Center will guide you through a series of screens that provide step-by step instructions for connecting to your network.
Join Wire less Network
45
gain
Run Media Center Setup Again The first time you started Media Center, you were guided through a series of screens that helped you set up preferences in Media Center so you could control your entertainment experience.
To go through the entire set up of Media Center againscreen by screen, select Yes.
You will be guided through two sections: Required Setup (checks for components like networking and Internet) and Optional Setup (advanced settings and features). Select Next to continue.
Run Media Center Setup A
46
Start Menu | Settings | Media Center Setup
Selecting Yes or No is the only action available for this option. Selecting Yes will automatically restore your Start page to its default settings.
Restore Start Page Defaults During the course of working with various software programs and many different types of entertainment components, you might find it advantageous or necessary to restore the Start page defaults.
Doing this will remove any changes you may have made to the Start menu and restore it back to its original state.
Restore Star t Page Defaul ts
47
Settings | General
blocked from nter, and then access to the
ach option. a check mark).
ect allowable vanced, you -MA for
select the
confirm a new ator.
ault settings.
ro ls
Start Menu |
Parental Controls Media Center provides a process by which selected programs can be viewing. The first time you enter Parental Control, you will be asked to e confirm a new four digit access code. Once complete, you will be given following parental controls:
Use the arrow keys on your remote control to move to the buttons for e Press the OK button to select (add a check mark) or deselect (remove When finished, select Save.
If you turn on TV blocking, you can then sel TV ratings for viewing, and by selecting Ad can choose more restrictive ratings than TV specific types of content. If you turn on movie blocking, you can then maximum allowed movie rating for viewing.
To change the access code, enter and then code. You must be logged on as Administr
Resets the Parental Control back to the def
Parenta l Cont
n.
e ) or n
48
Start Menu | Settings | General
Media Changer/Recorder Note: Make sure you select the Retrieve media information... option for proper functioning of the Media Changer/Recorder. This option must be selected to download and view additional CD and DVD informatio
Automatic Download Options With Media Center and your Internet connection, you can view media information for your CDs, DVDs, and movies. Learn interesting new details about the music and movies you listen to and watch.
You also have the option to download Guide information automatically every time you start your computer, or you can choose to download manually.
Use the arrow keys on your remote control to move to the buttons for each option. Press th OK button to select (add a check mark or dot deselect (remove a check mark or dot). Whe finished, select Save.
Automat ic Download Opt ions
49
Settings | General
certain you will Optimization
t ion
Start Menu |
You might want to set the Optimization schedule to run when you are not need to access Media Center. For additional information about the feature, go to Media Center help.
Optimization The Optimization feature is designed help you keep your system running efficiently and smoothly.
Select the Perform Optimization check box and then select the plus (+) or minus (-) options to set a schedule time.
Optimiza
enu ,
50
Start Menu | Settings | General
Use the arrow keys on your remote control to move to the About Media Center m button of your choice. Press the OK button to view your selection. When finished select Save/Done or the Back button.
About Media Center About Media Center provides you with information concerning the version of Media Center that you are currently using, and Internet connections to the Guide Terms of Service from your TV signal provider, and Data Provider Credits.
Simply select an option to view the information.
About Media Center
51
Settings | General
nu button of d, select Save/
vacy
Start Menu |
Use the arrow keys on your remote control to move to the Privacy me your choice. Press the OK button to view your selection. When finishe Done or the Back button.
Privacy Settings Your privacy is very important to Sony. You can view Media Center and Guide privacy statements in detail directly from the vendor with your Internet connection.
You can also use the Guide and an Internet connection to anonymously send information to Microsoft for the purpose of improving the quality and accuracy of services.
Pri
ent w
TV
th al.
:
p
52
Start Menu | Settings | TV
TV
Note: For additional information on setting up your TV, please refer to the VGX-XL2 User Guide located in VAIO Support Central. Go to Start | All Programs | VAIO Support Central and select VAIO Documentation.
Note: An ATSC digital antenna connected to the ATSC tuner in the XL2 computer is required for high-definition viewing.
You can control your TV entertainm experience. Choose settings that allo you to watch and/or record standard or digital high-definition TV.
Each of these topics provide you wi options to set up your up TV viewing preferences, whether analog or digit
Choose TV settings in this section to
Record shows for viewing later.
Locate a show and review a brief description.
Connect your TV signal and set u your TV or monitor with ease.
Set preferences for your sound system.
Recorder....................................... 53
Guide............................................. 57
Set Up TV Signal.......................... 62
Configure Your TV or Monitor..... 63
Audio............................................. 64
53
enu | Settings | TV
TV igital antenna rly configured
ms through a standard
User Guide l and select VAIO
rder
ide you with: ed shows. y of recorded
.
been y the copied and yer other than
Start M
You can record standard definition TV programming and high-definition programming. Recording high-definition TV programming requires a d be installed to the ATSC digital tuner in the XL2 computer and be prope through Media Center. You can record high-definition channels/progra Media Center; however, the resulting recording can only be viewed in definition image. Please note the following:
Note: For additional information on setting up your TV, please refer to the VGX-XL2 located in VAIO Support Central. Go to Start | All Programs | VAIO Support Centra Documentation.
Reco
Recorder History......................................54
Recorder Storage................... 55
Recorder Default.................... 56
The TV Recorder options prov a complete history of record the location, limit, and qualit
shows. general programing defaults
IMPORTANT: Sony supports the lawful use of technology and does not endorse or encourage the use of our products for purposes other than those permitted by copyright law.
. TV programs that have encrypted (protected) b broadcaster cannot be played back on any pla the one recorded to.
54
Start Menu | Settings | TV | Recorder
Use the arrows on your remote control to move to the menu options and each recorded program in the history list. Press the OK button to perform a menu command or to view status information about the selected show.
History Media Center stores a complete history of all recorded programing. Information such as the recording date, name of the program, and the current status is stored.
The list can be sorted by Date, Status, and Title.
The information for every recording remains in the list until you select Clear History.
History
55
gs | TV | Recorder
ttons ge the option.
rage
Use the arrow keys on your remote control to move to the (+) or (-) bu associated with the option of your choice. Press the OK button to chan When finished, select Save.
Recorder Storage Media Center provides you with complete information about where and how your recorded programs are stored. You also have the ability to manage that information and make changes, if necessary.
The Available recording time graph moves in relation to the Maximum TV limit selection.
Recorder Sto
tion.
56
Start Menu | Settings | TV | Recorder
Use the arrow keys on your remote control to move to the (+) or (-) buttons associated with the option of your choice. Press the OK button to change the op When finished, select Save.
Recording Defaults Media Center lets you create a list of defaults or conditions that determine the actions Media Center takes with your recorded programs. There are also specific defaults or conditions that pertain only to the recording of a TV series.
Recording Defaul ts
57
enu | Settings | TV
L2 computer, igh-definition e TV Guide in
uide
ives you the e your TV e listing.
your TV can add, channels.
atically ry time you nload the enience.
control!
Start M
If you have installed a digital antenna to the ATSC digital tuner in the X you can download TV Guide program information for available digital h channels in your local area. Digital high-definition channels display in th the following format: [Channel No., Station name-DT, TV Show] Example: 1041 KNBC-DT NBC News
G
Guide The Media Center Guide g control you need to manag channels and your TV guid
View a channel listing from signal provider where you remove, and even rename
Have Media Center autom download new listings eve start Media Center, or dow guide listings at your conv
Media Center puts you in
Edit Channels............................... 58
Add Missing Channels................ 59
Set Up Guide Listings.................. 60
Additional Guide Information..... 61
n. ark)
58
Start Menu | Settings | TV | Guide
Use the arrow keys on your remote control to move to the buttons for each optio Press the OK button to select (add a check mark) or deselect (remove a check m a channel. Use the keypad to change the channel number, if necessary. When finished, select Save.
Edit Channels With Media Center, you can control what channels you and your family can access. Once you select Edit Channels, a list of channels from your TV signal provider shows on your screen.
From here you can add, remove, and if needed, correct a channel number. If something goes wrong, simply select Restore Default to return the channel list to its original state.
Edi t Channels
59
ttings | TV | Guide
press the channel name
nels
Start Menu | Se
Use the arrows on your remote control to move to a menu option and OK button to make your selection. Use the numeric keypad to enter a and number. When finished, select Done.
Add Missing Channels If for any reason you need to add a channel to your list of available channels, you can do so through Add Missing Channels. For example, you previously deleted a channel and now want to add it back.
Simply select Add Channel and then enter the channel name. Then select Next and enter the channel number. Finally, select Done. Your added channel will be listed on the Add Missing Channels first screen.
Add Missing Chan
60
Start Menu | Settings | TV | Guide
Set Up Guide Listings Media Center makes it easy to set up to download and view your TV Program Guide. Just read the on-screen information and answer a few questionsMedia Center does the rest!
Media Center will ask you:
If you want to use the Guide
if you agree with the Guide Terms of Service
for your ZIP Code
Then, Media Center will locate and download your TV Program Guide.
To get started, Select Next.
Set Up Guide L ist ings
61
ttings | TV | Guide
d press the
t ion
Start Menu | Se
Use the arrow key on your remote control to move to a menu option an OK button to select the option.
To immediately download TV Program Guide listings, select
To download and view Guide Terms of Service, select
To download and view About Guide Listings, select
Addi t ional Guide Informa
al V
igital
ated IO
62
Start Menu | Settings | TV
For complete instructions on setting up your standard resolution (analog) TV sign and your over-the-air high-definition resolution (digital) TV signal, go to Set Up T Signal located in Media Center Setup on page 21.
Notes: High-definition TV programming requires an external digital antenna be installed to the ATSC d
tuner in the XL2 computer and be properly configured through Media Center.
For additional information on setting up your TV, please refer to the VGX-XL2 User Guide loc in VAIO Support Central. Go to Start | All Programs | VAIO Support Central and select VA Documentation.
Set Up TV Signal Media Center makes it easy to set up your TV signal for program viewing. Just read the on-screen information and answer a few questionsMedia Center does the rest!
Set Up TV Signal
63
enu | Settings | TV
re required to ow to ettings. From reen Display or monitor.)
e utility program,
de located in VAIO entation.
i tor
As you answer the questions and progress through the screens, you a Identify Your Display Type, identify your Connection Type, decide h Optimize Media Center for your Display, and Adjust your Display S here, select Adjust Display Controls, then select Next to view the sc Calibration. (From here you can adjust the characteristics of your TV
Note: Display setting may need to be refined using the nVIDIA utiltiy program. To access th right-click anywhere on your desktop and select nVIDIA DISPLAY. Note: For additional information on setting up your TV, please refer to the VGX-XL1 User Gui Support Central. Go to Start | All Programs | VAIO Support Central and select VAIO Docum
Configure Your TV or Monitor Media Center makes it easy to set up your TV or monitor for viewing. Just read the on-screen information and answer a few questions.
A video is provided that contains additional information on setting up your display and improving the quality of your video viewing.
Conf igure Your TV or Mon
r
64
Start Menu | Settings | TV
Use the arrow keys on your remote control to move to the Audio, Captioning, o Caption Display (+) or (-) buttons. Press the OK button to change the TV audio selection. When finished, select Save.
Audio With Media Center, you can set up options, such as Audio (Stereo,SAP), Captioning (CC1, CC2) and Caption Display (On, Off, On when muted) that affect your TV viewing.
Audio
65
art Menu | Settings
priate buttons. hen press the
St
Once you decide how you want to view your pictures, select the appro Use the arrows on your remote control to move to the desired option, t OK button. When finished, select Save.
Pictures Gain complete control over how you view your digital pictures.
Choose to view your pictures in order or randomly.
Choose to show pictures in sub folders or the main folder.
Choose to view picture captions.
Choose a slide transition type.
Choose to add animation when viewing your pictures
or ions
ual
ns TV to
66
Start Menu | Settings
To enjoy Visualizations while you are listening to your favorite music, select one more viewing samples from the Visualizations page, and then make your select from the Visualization Options page.
Music With Media Center, you can add a vis component to your listening pleasure with Visualizations.
Visualizations are visual interpretatio of an artists music that plays on your or computer screen while you listen the music.
Visualizations............................... 67
Visualizations Options................ 68
67
| Settings | Music
nt visual
Battery
ical Colors
ions
Visualizations To enhance your music enjoyment, Media Center provides eight differe interpretations of the musical performance.
Alchemy Ambience Bars and Waves
Particle Plenoptic Spikes Mus
Visual izat
d
68
Start Menu | Settings | Music
Once you decide on your visualizations and how they are viewed, select the appropriate buttons. Use the arrows on your remote control to move to the desire option, then press the OK button. When finished, select Save.
Visualizations Options Media Center Visualizations are visual interpretations of an artists music that play on your TV or computer screen while you listen to the music.
You decide if you want the visualizations to start when the music plays, and if song information can be viewed during the visualizations.
Visual izat ions Opt ions
69
nu | Settings | DVD
e control to ate your
by selecting allow you to view your
Start Me
DVD Media Center gives you th determine how best to cre cinematic experience.
Enhance your experience from these four topics that choose and define how to DVD movies.
DVD Language............................. 70
DVD Audio.................................... 71
Closed Captioning....................... 72
Remote Control Options.............. 73
or hen
70
Start Menu | Settings | DVD
Use the arrow keys on your remote control to move to the Subtile, Audio track, Menu (+) or (-) buttons. Press the OK button to change the language selection. W finished, select Save.
DVD Language When viewing a DVD movie, Media Center gives you the option of changing the language for subtitles, the audio track, and menus. Choose from a list of different languages, or select Title Default to play the DVD movie in the original language it was created in.
DVD Language
71
nu | Settings | DVD
select Late Night).
nel sound
udio
Select Configuration to set up your speakers and channel mode, and Environment to choose your listening experience (Theatre, Normal,
DVD Audio Imagine yourself fully immersed in rich Dolby Digital surround soundnot in a theatrebut in your home. Sony, InterVideo, and your Dolby Digital sources for sound bring the theatre experience to your living room.
Media Center and InterVideo helps you set up your speakers and environment to fully create the cinematic experience. Note: You must have a multi-chan
system to experience this feature.
DVD A
n
72
Start Menu | Settings | DVD
Use the arrow keys on your remote control to move to the Captioning or Captio Display (+) or (-) buttons. Press the OK button to change the selection. When finished, select Save.
Closed Captioning Media Center gives you the option of adding closed captioning to your DVD viewing.
Enjoy DVD movies with those who are hearing impaired, or when sound in your environment becomes a viewing factor.
You can choose the type of captioning (CC1 or CC2), and how the captions display (On, Off, or On when muted).
Closed Capt ioning
73
nu | Settings | DVD
e buttons. Use press the OK
Getting Started.
e settings,
ions
Once you decide on your remote control options, select the appropriat the arrows on your remote control to move to the desired option, then button. When finished, select Save.
Note: For additional information on using your remote control, go to the chapter titled
Remote Control Options When watching your favorite DVD movies, you might want to watch only certain parts of the movie, or skip forward or backward to locate a specific scene. Media Center makes this easy. You can set your remote control to skip chapters, and skip forward and back, giving you the control and flexibility to watch exactly what you want to. For detailed information about thes
select Help.
Remote Contro l Opt
your
74
Start Menu | Settings
Once you decide your options, select the appropriate buttons. Use the arrows on remote control to move to the desired option, then press the OK button.
Messenger and Caller ID Settings Enjoy Media Center and keep in contact with friends and family. You can sign in or sign out of Messenger at any time while in Media Center. You can also:
Turn on and off the Do Not Disturb mode.
Switch between Messenger conversations.
Turn off Messenger sounds.
75
art Menu | Settings
d experience r provides to
St
Help Windows Media Center is very easy to use when you follow the on-screen instructions. However, when you do need additional information, Media Center provides you with four areas of assistance.
Media Center Help
Community Forums
Latest Tips
Help with your Hardware
Please visit each of these areas an the quality assistance Media Cente you and your family.
h
76
Start Menu | Settings | Help
You can access Medias Centers Help areas by the following methods: Remote Control - Press the More button, select Settings, then Help.
Remote Mouse - Move the Mouse to activate the Media Center tool bar, whic appears at top of the screen. Then click the Help icon.
VAIO Support Central provides you with a single location for all of your support needs and allows you to easily access valuable support and technical information from Sony and Microsoft.
Keep your VAIO computers system software and operating system updated using VAIO Web Support and Microsoft Update.
To access VAIO Support Central:
1 Click the Windows Start button.
2 From the Start menu, click All Programs.
3 From All Programs menu, click VAIO Support Central.
Addi t ional Help
77
in ts
dates our do is go to ite and enter r computer.
odel ts menu
ops. Finally, ony Support specific to
Helpful H
Windows Updates
Remember to check regularly for Windows updates to keep the operating system updated with the latest software releases and security updates.
To start the Windows Update utility, connect to the Internet, click Start, All Programs, then click Windows Update. The Windows Update Web site opens. Follow the on-screen instructions.
VAIO Updates
Sony Support provides up designed specifically for y computer. All you need to Sonys Internet support s the model number of you
If you do not know your m number, go to the Produc and select Computers & Peripherals, then Deskt click Detect my model. S will show you information your computer.
Support Internet Sites
Windows Updates http://microsoft.com/windowsxp/mediacenter/
VAIO Updates http://esupport.sony.com
Contact Sony Support
Internet Support http://esupport.sony.com
Customer Support (888) 476-6972
78
79
Start Menu
equipped XP Media ou xciting world ent. usic, and
yet powerful can enjoy an tainment
n in this guide,
Media Center Features VAIO personal computers
with Microsoft Windows
Center Edition 2005 lets y experience the new and e of digital home entertainm Experience movies, TV, m photos like never before.
Combine the easy to use, features of VAIO, and you even more dynamic enter experience.
Note: For information not show go to Media Center Help.
My DVDs..................................... 82
Online Spotlight......................... 88
My Videos................................... 83
My Pictures................................ 96
My TV.......................................... 104
My Music.................................... 114
Create DVD................................. 121
My Changer................................ 123
More Programs.......................... 129
Manage Discs................... 130
to
80
Review the following list for a high-level overview of the exciting features in Media Center.
For in-depth information about each feature, go to the specific topic in this book or to the Media Center help file.
View all the DVDs in your media library. Select a DVD view programing information or to watch.
The Online Spotlight provides Internet access to the latest entertainment news and events.
Exper ience Media Center
81
y folders as gle picture or
. Watch live wing.
r hard drive. sic files in
V series. o DVD.
e control, .
links have r enjoyment.
nd in More to control the r.
t out of your
oaded in a edia Center.
You can categorize your pictures in as man you wish. Then, select a group to view a sin a slide of all pictures in the folder.
Take control of your TV viewing experience TV or record your favorite show for later vie
Enjoy access to all the music stored on you Organize, locate, and play your favorite mu Media Center.
Create DVDs from your favorite recorded T Select only the episodes you want to burn t
Manage your media library from your remot including auto-ripping and multi-disk burning
To enhance you entertainment experience, been included to additional programs for you Manage Discs is an important program fou Programs that gives you the tools you need discs stored in the Media Changer/Recorde
Review this section carefully to get the mos digital entertainment experience.
Watch digital videos that youve previously l folder on the hard disk drive recognized by M
ter
to
p,
ou
0
the
82
Start Menu | My DVD
My DVDs Watching DVD movies in Media Cen lets you take control of your movie experience.
Sit back and use the remote control
play, pause, rewind, fast forward, sto
and even eject your DVD movie.
The Sony Changer/Recorder lets y
create your own movie library where
you can store and manage up to 20
discs in a single location. Select a
movie to enjoy without ever leaving
comfort of your favorite chair.
Loading and Unloading DVDs..... 83
Viewing DVD Movies.................... 85
DVD Movie Controls.................... 86
Helpful Hints................................. 87
83
art Menu | My DVD
our own er with the :
. Data discs ton, then My ices with
VDs. For hows to disc, equired to
iscs
St
Loading discs in the Sony Changer/Recorder allows you to create y personal media library that you can access from Windows Media Cent touch of a button. Your library can contain the following types of media
DVDs Store DVDs that you buy or create
CDs Store CDs that you buy or create
Data Discs Store any type of data that you have a CD or DVD can be viewed by selecting the Windows Start but Computer, and finally selecting the drive from Dev Removable Storage.
Blank Discs Store blank discs for creating your own CDs and D example, when archiving or copying recorded TV s a message will inform you of the number of discs r copy the selected recordings
When you load discs to the Media Changer, the discs must be recognized by Media Center before viewing. Go to More Programs and select the Manage Discs option or to directly to My DVDs to view the following message. Click Yes to continue.
Loading and Unloading D
s . For
:
cs.
d
o
to . If lot, ds.
to c. t
84
Note: Loading Media Note: It may take up to 60 seconds for Media Center to scan each disc. It i recommended to insert each disc into the changer, and then let them all scan one after the other additional information, go to the Manage Discs topic in My Changer.
Loading Media Changer Unloading Media Changer
1 Make sure the Changer/Recorder is properly connected to the Personal Computer and is turned on.
Note: When loading discs, make sure that the label is facing to the right of the slot.
2 To load a single disc, press the Load button once and insert the disc. To load multiple discs, press the Load button twice and insert each disc in the slot one at a time. The changer keeps rotating open slots until all are filled or no until no disc is inserted after 15 seconds.
3 Once the discs have been inserted, they must be scanned by Media Center before they can be viewed. Go to More Programs and select Manage Discs or to My DVDs
4 Click Yes on the NEW DISCS FOUND message to update your library with the new disc information.
To eject discs using Media Center
1 From Media Center, go to My Changer and select Manage Dis
2 Select the Eject button associate with the disc you want to eject.
To eject discs manually:
1 Press the Eject button one time t eject the last inserted disc.
or
2 Press the Eject button two times eject all discs in the changer slots the disc is not removed from the s the eject process will time out and stop after approximately 10 secon
This will not eject the disc in the changer optical drive. You must go Media Center to eject the last dis See steps 1 through 2 of To ejec discs using Media Center.
85
art Menu | My DVD
e personal optical drive.
vies
St
Once you have loaded your DVD movies into the VGP-XL1B Changer/Recorder, and they have been identified by Media Center, you can view any movie in My DVDs with your remote control.
Sort the movie list by title, year, or genre and then select a movie. The Changer/Recorder will locate the movie and place it in the drive for viewing. Movies in the drive of changer or the XL2 computer appear with a disc next to the movie icon. Select the movie with the disc and then select Watch from the MOVIE INFO screen. You can also view a movie from th
computer by placing a disc in the
Viewing DVD Mo
d
iew
going or in
ie
nu.
86
Start Menu | My DVD
Media Center offers you the flexibility of using the remote control, or keyboard an mouse commands to simplify your DVD movie watching experience.
If you are enjoying the TV, Video, or Music options in Media Center and wish to v a DVD movie, simply insert the DVD and the following image appears.
If you stop your movie using the remote control, the following options appear:
Notes: (1) For DVDs, you can edit the movie title as it appears in Manage Disks or My DVDs by to Movie Info and editing as desired.(2) You can view your DVD movies in full screen, windowed, a viewport window. Select the Windows Resize button to change the viewing screen size.
Using your remote control, select Play DVD. Your mov automatically begins to play in full screen mode.
Continues playing from the stopping point.
Restarts the DVD movie from the beginning.
Returns to the DVD movies title or beginning me
Select the language preference for the Subtitle, Audio track, and Menu for the DVD movie.
Ejects the DVD movie.
DVD Movie Controls
87
in ts
s
t your DVD s, the audio ovie is e remote VD or - buttons
DVD er. Go to VD.
VD
gs that can ing, go to VD.
s
Helpful H
Resize the Viewing Screen
You can watch your DVD movie in a small viewport screen, which allows you access to other areas of Media Center, by pressing the Windows button on your remote control.
If you want to work and watch your DVD movie and the same time, move your mouse for the Windows resize buttons to appear. Select the Resize button.
Change DVD Language
Change the language tha movie displays for subtitle track and menus. If the m playing, press Stop on th control and then select D Languages. Select the + to choose a language.
You can also change the languages in Media Cent Start menu | Settings | D
More Movie Information
View additional information about the DVD movie you are watching by pressing the MORE INFO button on the remote control.
Information includes title, chapter title, genre, parental rating, length and current position.
Additional Settings for D Viewing
For these additional settin enhance your movie view Start menu | Settings | D
Audio
Closed Captioning
Remote Control Option
88
Start Menu | Online Spotlight
Online Spotlight Media Center and Online Spotlight provide you direct access to various Internet entertainment sites. You can view the sites by category by selecting a menu option.
Use the arrows on your remote control to move to a site button. Information about the site displays below the list. To select the site, press the OK button.
89
t Menu | My Videos
and digital d disk drive mote control se. View the , within a
rt window.
videos stored u have the Internet,
others by
Star
My Videos Watch your home movies videos stored on your har using the Media Center re or your keyboard and mou videos in full screen mode window, or from a viewpo
Organize, store, and play on your hard drive that yo created, downloaded from or recorded from TV.
Share your video files with creating DVDs or CDs.
Organize Your Videos.................. 90
Play Your Videos.......................... 91
More Information/View Details.... 92
Create a DVD/CD.......................... 93
Import/Edit Video......................... 94
Helpful Hints................................. 95
with
ed
ct en
90
Start Menu | My Videos
With Media Center, its easy to store and organize videos that you have created your digital camera, digital recorder, or downloaded from the Internet.
For you to view your videos in Media Center, the files must be stored in a location that Media Center looks in.
To view videos in My Videos, first copy and organize the files into the My Videos or Shared Video folder.
In the My Videos folder, you can create new folders or copy in other folders to better organize your files.
If you are connected to a home network and wish to share your video files with others, copy the files to the Shared Video folder.
If a video file is downloaded or stor in a folder other than My Videos or Shared Videos, you can add that folder(s) to the folder list that Media Center looks in.
From your remote control, press the More Info button, or if you are using your mouse, right click anywhere in My Videos to view this menu. Sele Add Videos and follow the on-scre instructions.
Organize Your Videos
91
t Menu | My Videos
e on your hard ort window. r the Internet
control:
press OK.
ally.
ning.
ter.
eos
Star
With Media Center, it is easy to select and play a video stored anywher drive. You can view your videos in full screen, windowed, or in a viewp Viewing from an viewport window gives you access to your computer o outside of Media Center.
When the video is finished playing, the following menu appears:
To view a video, do the following using your remote
1 Press the My Videos button.
2 Select the folder where the video is stored and
3 Select a video and press OK.
The video you selected will begin to play automatic
Restart: Restarts the video from the begin
Delete: Deletes the video from your compu
Done: Returns you to your video list.
Play Your Vid
:
d.
92
Start Menu | My Videos
In Media Center, its easy to find out more information about any digital video in your library. It doesnt matter if you just want to see the information before you watch it, or if youre already watching the video.
Use the arrow keys on your remote control to move to a video icon button. Press the OK button to select the video. From here, you can press the OK button again, or press MORE and select View Details.
If are already watching a video, simply press the MORE button on your remote control.
You can view the following video information Thumbnail of the cover, if available Video title Video description Date the video was last created or modifie Video length. (h:mm:ss format)
More Informat ion
93
t Menu | My Videos
for safe elect Create which contain
Create CD/DVD.
u can Select Videos or ly the ones u want,
e finished select en select Copy. nd when ote control
selections.
/CD
With Media Center, its easy to copy your digital videos to a CD or DVD keeping or to share with family and friends. Select a video, and then s CD / DVD. Media Center will then take you through a series of screens, simple instructions to assist you in performing such tasks as:
Note: Insert a blank CD/DVD disc into the changer or host computer before starting
Select your disc format. Make sure you select the Data CD/ DVD format. Give your video disc a title.
Yo All on yo
View CD / DVD information.
When you hav your choices, Create CD.Th Yes for Initiate
You can view the creation progress a complete, select Finish. Use the rem arrows and OK button to make your
Create a DVD
All
g e
94
Start Menu | My Videos
Your computer comes equipped with DVgate Plus software, which allows you to import and edit videos from an external device or from recorded TV programs created with Media Center's My TV feature. You can edit the video and export it into specific folders to play back with My Videos.
For details on how to connect your digital video camera to your computer, refer to the manufacturers documentation supplied with your camera or see the VGX-XL2 User Guide located in VAIO Support Central.
To access DVgate Plus, click Start, point to Programs, DVgate Plus, and then click DVgate Plus. For additional operating\editin instructions for DVgate PLus, see the DVgat Plus help file. (For help, press the F1 key or click Help on the menu bar or topic screen.)
Import /Edi t V ideo
95
in ts
l Source
to play video storage a Changer/ rk drive.
uality
nd monitor | Media e Your TV e on-screen
m, .asf
mv,
mpe, .mp1,
Helpful H
Resize the Viewing Screen
You can watch your DVD movie in an viewport screen, which allows you access to other areas of Media Cen- ter, by pressing the Windows button on your remote control.
If you want to work and watch your DVD movie at the same time, move your mouse for the Windows resize buttons to appear. Select the Resize button.
Playing from an Externa
Media Center allows you off a disc, from a external device (such as the Medi Recorder), or off a netwo
Change Display View Q
You can adjust your TV a from Settings | General Center Setup | Configur or Monitor. Just follow th instructions.
Separate My Videos Folders
If you set up multiple users on your computer, each user will have a separate My Videos folder that can only be opened by that user and a Shared Videos folder for sharing your videos with others.
Supported File Types
Windows Media file - .w
Windows Media A/V - .w
Video file - .avi
Movie file - .mpeg, mpg, mp2, mpv2
to
as
res
96
Start Menu | My Pictures
My Pictures Media Center makes it easy and fun look at your digital photos. From My Photos you can:
View your pictures individually or a slide show.
Edit, organize and sort your pictu by name or date.
Share your pictures with others
Create CDs or DVDs
Print your pictures
Protect your digital images
Organize Your Pictures.............. 97
View Your Pictures..................... 98
Edit Your Pictures....................... 99
Play a Slide Show....................... 100
Create a CD/DVD......................... 101
More Information........................ 102
Helpful Hints............................... 103
97
enu | My Pictures
tures that you .
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older list that
ructions.
from your r, Windows in the My
ures
Using My Pictures in Media Center, it is easy to store and organize pic have created with your digital camera or downloaded from the Internet
Note: Pictures stored on media in the Changer will not have access to these feature
For you to view your pictures in Media Center, the files must be stored in a location that Media Center looks in.
First, copy and organize the image files into the My Pictures or Shared Pictures folder.
In the My Pictures folder, you can create new folders or copy in other folders to better organize your files.
If you are connected to a home network and wish to share your video files with others, copy the files to the Shared Pictures folder.
If an image file is downlo stored in a folder other th Pictures or Shared Pictu add that folder(s) to the f Media Center looks in.
From your remote control, press the MORE INFO button, Select Add Pictures and follow the on-screen inst
When you save pictures digital camera or scanne automatically stores them Pictures folder.
Organize Your Pict
ture ails.
98
Start Menu | My Pictures
Press OK to open a folder and view thumbnails of your pictures. Move to the pic you want to view and press OK again. Press BACK to return to the list of thumbn
With Media Center, it is easy to select and view digital images stored in My Pictures or anywhere else on your hard drive. Before opening Media Center and viewing your pictures, you may want to spend some time in Windows Explorer organizing your pictures by creating various subject folders in the My Pictures folder,
Use the arrows on the remote control to move to a menu option or a picture folder.
View Your Pictures
99
enu | My Pictures
se the arrow nd then select
wing:
.
picture.
res
Picture Details: Edit Your Pictures Its easy to edit your pictures directly in Media Centers My Pictures. U keys on the remote control and move to a picture. Press MORE INFO a Picture Details. From here you can:
Rotates picture 45 degrees.
If you select Touch Up, you can then choose the follo
Automatically removes red eye from people and pets
Automatically sharpens the contrast or clarity of your
The following tools are provided:
Shifts crop box in the direction of the selected arrow.
Zooms picture in and out.
Shifts orientation of picture.
Edi t Your Pictu
ts.
100
Start Menu | My Pictures
Press the OK button to select your option. For more information, see Helpful Hin
Instead of viewing your digital pictures individually, why not add some fun. Its easy to create a slide show and even add background music.
From Settings | Pictures, you can customize the settings for picture and song captions, transition type and length, background color, how pictures are displayed, and what pictures display.
Use the arrows on your remote control to select a folder, single picture or Play Slide Show
Play a Sl ide Show
101
enu | My Pictures
D for safe ure folder, and a series of such tasks as:
Create CD/DVD.
u can Select Pictures or ly the ones u want.
e finished select en select Copy. nd when
DVD
With Media Center, its easy to copy your digital pictures to a CD or DV keeping or to share with family and friends. Simply select or open a pict then select Create CD / DVD. Media Center will then take you through screens, which contain simple instructions to assist you in performing
Note: Insert a blank CD/DVD disc into the changer or host computer before starting
Select disc format. Make sure you select the Data CD/DVD format. Data DVD also lets you create a DVD slide show.
Give your picture disc a title.
Yo All on yo
View CD / DVD information.
When you hav your choices, Create CD.Th Yes for Initiate
You can view the creation progress a complete, select Finish.
Create a CD/
n:
102
Start Menu | My Pictures
In Media Center, its easy to find out more information about any digital picture in your library.
Use the arrow keys on your remote control to move to a picture icon button. Press the OK button to select the picture. From here, you can press the OK button again, or press MORE and select View Details.
If are already viewing a picture, simply press the MORE button on your remote control.
You can also edit your pictures within Media Center. See page 99 Picture Details: Editing your Pictures.
You can view the following picture informatio
Picture title
Folder name, if stored in a folder
Date the picture was created or modified
Picture resolution
Picture Deta i ls
103
in ts
Show
edia Library. ylist.
open My icture folder ide show.
Press OK.
erts Group -
ormat - .gif
f
hics - .png
Helpful H
Picture Zooming and Panning
Select a picture from My Pictures.
Press OK once to magnify 150%. Press OK again to magnify 225%.
Now you can use the arrows to pan around the picture.
Press OK again to return the picture to its original size
Adding Music to a Slide
Select music from your M Play a CD or select a Pla
Use the remote control to Pictures and select the p you want to watch as a sl
Select Play Slide Show.
Printing Pictures in Media Center
Start Media Center and from My Pictures, select the pictures you want to print.
Press the MORE button and then select Pictures Details.
Select Print and then select Print again.
Follow any on-screen instructions.
Supported File Types
Joint Photographic Exp .jpg, .jpeg
Tagged Image File - .tif
Graphics Interchange F
Bitmap - .bmp
Windows Meta File - .wm
Portable Networks Grap
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ter
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104
Start Menu | My TV
My TV Watching your favorite TV program movie in Media Center puts you in complete control of your viewing experience.
What do you want to do? Media Cen makes it easy to locate, watch, or record your favorite TV program, sporting event, or movie.
And best of all, you can do all of this directly from your VGX-XL2 Digital Living System, your TV or monito and Media Center.
Watch Live TV............................... 106
View the Guide............................. 107
Guide Helpful Hints..................... 108
Record and Schedule Program 109
Record/Schedule Helpful Hints.. 110
Watch Recorded Programs......... 111
Search for a Program.................. 112
Search for a Featured Movie....... 113
105
the Media , or continue
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g. Plus, view rograms
, find out why
ming from nter to y update
r record by m category.
later. Get the , find other vies, and find
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Live TV Watch your favorite TV show or movie LIVE. Use Center buffer feature to pause, rewind, fast forward viewing your live program in progress. Use the MOR button on the remote control to display TV show info
Recorded TV Record any TV show or program for later viewin a list of recorded programs by date or title, a list of p scheduled to be recorded, play a recorded program a program wasnt recorded, or add a TV recording.
Guide Download a listing of current television program your local television service provider. Set Media Ce automatically update the program guide, or manuall whenever you are connected to the Internet.
Search Quickly find a TV program or a series to watch o entering a descriptive word, program title, or progra
Movies Go online to find movies on TV to watch now or latest movie information, read reviews, see cast lists times the movie is broadcast, browse for related mo other movies with the same cast members.
My TV Featu
106
Start | My TV
Note: You can watch TV in full screen, windowed, or in an viewport window.
Watch live TV or record your favorite shows to view later. Use the Guide to find the show you want to watch or record.
When you watch live TV, Media Center continuously captures 30 minute increments of the program. This enables you to rewind, replay, and fast forward in a TV program. This TV programming buffer is temporary and is not saved.
To view TV, press LIVE TV on your remote control or select the LIVE TV menu option.
Watch L ive TV
107
Start Menu | My TV
ton on your HAN/PAGE select a e program.
local
uide
You can view the Guide listings at any time by pressing the Guide but remote control. Use the arrows to move to a show time, and use the C (+/-) buttons to move to any available channel. Press the OK button to program. Press the MORE button to view program details or record th
The Guide displays TV channel and program information, including titles, descriptions, categories, ratings, and program times.
You can view and scroll through the list of current and future TV shows in the Guide. When you select a program, information about the program displays below the program listings.
You can choose to have Media Center download the Guide from your provider automatically, or download updated information yourself.
View the G
, .
ct
108
Important Information
Guide data may not be available in all countries or regions. Please consult your local TV signal provider.
Make sure you are connected to the Internet and check your TV signal and guide settings in the Settings menu.
Removing Channels from Guide
From Media Center, select Settings TV, Guide, and then Edit Channels
Follow the on-screen instructions to remove channels from the Guide listing.
Add Missing Channels
From Media Center, select Settings, TV, Guide, and then Add Missing Channels.
Select Add Channels and enter the name of the missing channel.
Enter the correct channel number and select Add.
Repeat to add all missing channels.
Select Done when complete.
Downloading the Guide
Automatically - Determine settings for retrieving information for media and Method of Download for the Guide. From Media Center, select Settings, General, and then Automatic Downloads Options.
Manually - From Media Center, sele Settings, General, TV, Guide, and then Get Latest Guide Listings.
Guide Helpfu l Hints
109
Main Menu | My TV
ote control. . riteria. l and Time. heduled.
omputer, you can igh definition
n image.
ams
Record the program you are watching by pressing REC on the rem Record from the Guide by selecting a program, then select Record Record from the Search menu, which allows you to define search c Record manually by selecting Add Recording, then select Channe
The Add Recording button shows when no other recordings are sc
Note: If you have a digital antenna connected to the NTSC digital tuner in the XL2 c record standard definition and high definition programs at the same time. However, h programs recorded through Media Center will be downgraded to a standard definitio
Media Center lets you record the program you are watching, one scheduled to broadcast later, or a recurring program series.
To verify your program is being recorded, select My TV, Recorded TV, and then select Scheduled. The Record icon appears next to the program while you are recording.
Record and Schedule Progr
,
C
110
Standby Mode and Scheduled Recordings
Media Center will continue to record your scheduled TV shows even if you place the computer in standby or in hibernation state. The recording of TV shows will also continue even if Media Center is closed.
Set Up Recording Preferences
From Media Center, select Settings General, TV, and then Recorder. From Recorder you can define or change settings for History, Recorder Storage, and Recording Defaults.
Copying Recorded Programs to DVD or CD
If you would like to copy or archive your recorded TV shows to CD or DVD, go to Create DVD located on the Media Center Start menu and follow all on-screen instructions.
Make sure you load blank discs in the Media Changer/Recorder before you begin.
Select Stop if you need to stop or cancel a current recording.
Recording Quality and Hard Disk Drive Storage Space
Quality Space
Best 2.7 GB/hr
Better 2.4 GB/hr
Good 1.4 GB/hr
Fair 1.2 GB/hr Note: Storage space estimates are for standard definition recordings from the NTS (analog) tuner. Storage space for recording from the ATSC (digital) tuner will require additional space.
Record and Schedule Helpfu l Hints
111
TV | Recorded TV
ontrol to move ss the OK
ams
Recorded TV is the storage place for all your recorded programs. In the Recorded TV window, you can sort your programs by name, date, or category. You can also delete a recorded program or series of programs.
To watch a recorded program, simply locate and select the program, and then select Play.
After you have recorded a TV program, you may want to save the program to a DVD. Go to My Changer and then select Archive TV Show and follow the on-screen instructions.
Use the arrows on your remote c to a menu option or program. Pre button to make your selection.
Watch Recorded Progr
n to on
112
Start Menu | My TV
Use the arrows on your remote to move to a menu option and press the OK butto make your selection. Use the keypad to enter a Title or keyword. Results show screen automatically.
Media Center My TV has an easy to use search feature that lets you quickly locate the program you want to watch or record.
You can search by Categories, Title, or Keyword.
The results from your search can be viewed in a list sorted by day for the number of days remaining on your current guide listing.
Once you locate the program you want to watch or record, press the OK button on your remote control.
Search for a Program
113
rt | My TV | Movies
ov ie
When you select the Movies menu option, Media Center searches your entire TV Guide listing for movies based on your input for what you want to see.
Once you make a movie selection, you can watch the movie, view additional information about the movie, or record the movie.
Note: Access to view restricted channels must be given by your TV signal provider.
Use the arrow keys on your remote to move to a menu option or movie and press the OK button.
Search for a Feature M
d ing see
ce s,
,
ou nd ws
114
Start Menu | My Music
Note: You can also use the Windows Media Player to play music and add, delete, categorize, an organize your music files. However, if you use Windows Media Centers My Music for your listen entertainment needs, you will have the added benefits of Sonys VAIO enhanced features. Please Windows Media Player Help for additional information.
My Music Enjoy a complete listening experien with My Music. You can listen to CD view artist information, create and organize your own music playlists, categorize and listen to music by genres, search for music selections and more.
With Media Center and My Music, y can play your favorite music files a CDs you have added to the Windo Media Player Library.
Organize Your Music Files.......... 115
Play Music.................................... 116
Queue Music................................. 117
Add Music..................................... 118
Create and Organize Playlists..... 119
Helpful Hints................................. 120
115
Start | My Music
have added
ded or stored Music or add that that Media
view this and follow s.
Changer are ic.
i les
With Media Center, it is easy to store and organize music files that you from your favorite CDs or have downloaded from the Internet.
For you to listen to music in Media Center, the files must be stored in a location that Media Center looks in.
First, add and organize the music files into the My Music or Shared Music folders.
In the My Music folder, you can create new folders or copy in other folders to better organize your files.
If you are connected to a home network and wish to share your music files with others, copy the files to the Shared Music folder.
If a music file is downloa in a folder other than My Shared Music, you can folder(s) to the folder list Center looks in.
From your remote control, press the MORE INFO button, or right click using your mouse anywhere in My Music to menu. Select Add Music the on-screen instruction
Note: CDs stored in the not displayed in My Mus
Organize Your Music F
OK
et.
116
Start | My Music
To listen to your music, use the arrows on the remote control to move to a menu option or music selection such as an album, artist, playlist, or song and press the button. Then select the Play menu option.
Note: You can also listen to your music from the Windows Media Player.
Once youve placed your music files in the My Music library, you are ready to listen to your favorite song, album (CD), or playlist.
Media Center provides you with several categories in which to sort your music files for easy locating.
Albums (CDs) Shows thumbnail of cover and title, if connected to the Intern
Artists Lists artist name and additional information about the artist.
Playlists Lists playlists that youve created from Media Center/-Player.
Songs Lists song title, length, and additional information, if selected.
Genres Lists genres categories, such as Classical, Jazz, and Rock.
Play Music
117
Start | My Music
the following: My Music
ng the Media e mode.)
sic
Remember, the Queue is temporary and will go away if you do any of Select Play instead of Add to Queue for another song or album in
Play media in My TV or My Videos.
Close Media Center (This includes logging off, turning off or restarti Center computer, or putting the computer into Standby or Hibernat
In Media Centers My Music, you can line up or queue the music you want to hear. The Queue is simply a temporary list of music. By using this feature, you dont have to keep selecting new songs or albums. There can be several pieces of music lined up to play one after the other.
To add music to the Queue, use the arrows on the remote control to select music from any of the categories and press the OK button. The next screen shows information for that particular piece of music. Move to the menu and select Add to Queue and press the OK button,
Queue Mu
om c
d
ble
u
O
d
will
118
Start | My Music
From a CD
1 Press the Media Center Start button on the remote control, and then select My Music.
2 Insert a CD into the CD drive of the personal computer.
3 Select the Albums category.
4 Select the Album or CD you want to add to your music library.
5 Select Copy CD. The first time you copy a music CD, you must select your copy protection options. Follow the on-screen instructions.
As each song finishes copying, a icon appears next to the title.
Note: You can also auto-rip music CDs from the Media Changer. For additional information, see My Changer, page 123
From the Internet
Follow all on-screen instructions fr the Internet site to download musi files to your computer.
If you download your music files directly to the My Music or Share Music folders, Media Center will automatically make the files availa to you.
If you download your music files to any location on your computer, yo must add that location in Media Center by pressing the MORE INF button on your remote control and then selecting Add Music.
Locate and select the folder where you downloaded the music files an then select Finish. Media Center add the folder to the My Music library.
Add Music
119
Start | My Music
e or record to ther and a Playlist that s background
s, or the the numeric
er.
is ts
A Playlist is a customized list of songs you can keep to play at a later tim CD. Using Playlists, you can group your favorite digital music files toge determine the order in which you want the files to play. You can create includes several tracks from various CDs or even a Playlist that contain music for a slide show. To create a Playlist, do the following:
Use the arrows on your remote control to move to menu options, song viewport window and press the OK button to make your selection. Use keypad to enter a name for your new Playlist.
Note: You can create Playlists in Windows Media Center or from within Media Play
1 Select a song and add to queue.
2 Move to the viewport screen and press the OK button to select it.
3 From the Queue screen, select the Edit Queue menu option.
4 From the Edit Queue screen, select Save As Playlist.
5 Enter a name for your new Playlist and select Save.
Create and Organize Play l
n e
ify
,
120
Selecting a Visualization
From Media Center, select Settings, and then to Music. Go to Visualizations Options to choose when and how the visualizations display.
Then go to Visualizations to choose from eight different graphical patterns.
Add/Edit Queue Meta Data
From Media Centers My Music, select an album, artist, song, or playlist. Press the MORE INFO butto on the remote control, and select th Edit menu option.
From the Edit screen, enter or mod the Queue meta data as necessary.
Create a CD/DVD
From Media Center, select My Music and then select the music you want to copy.
Select Create CD/DVD and follow the on-screen instructions.
Supported File Types
CD Audio - .cda
MP3 - .mp3, .m3u
Windows Audio File - .wav
Windows Media Audio Files - .asx .wm, .wma, .wmv, .wmp, .wmx
Helpful Hints
121
note the following:
es you with ng your own
e to VAIO method entire
control.
r creating ms.
ercial DVDs ed (protected) not be copied player other o.
Start Menu | Create DVDPlease
Create DVD Your DLS computer provid various methods of creati
DVDs. Create DVD, uniqu PCs with MCE, is the only where you can control the process with your remote
For additional methods fo DVDs, go to More Progra
IMPORTANT: Sony supports the lawful use of technology and does not endorse or encourage the use of our products for purposes other than those permitted by copyright law.
. TV programs and comm that have been encrypt by the broadcaster can and played back on any than the one recorded t
Create DVD Main Screen............. 122
VD.
a
122
Start Menu | Create DVD
Once you have selected the recording, you can do the following from the menu:
Note: Insert a blank CD/DVD disc into the changer or host computer before starting Create CD/D
The Create DVD main screen shows you a list of all of your TV show recordings. To create a DVD, select the desired recordings from the list. With each recording selected, information about the recording and the DVD displays.
Sort Sort the list by date or name (title)
Option Takes you to the DVD Settings screen where you can select theme or category and playback settings for the DVD. Select Configuration to choose the drive for creating the DVD.
Burn Starts the Creating DVD process. A progress bar displays.
Help Opens the Click to DVD Help file for reference.
Please read and follow all on-screen instructions.
Main Screen
123
enu | My Changer
to-ripping). ntion. stem.
onality in My nts.
ature added nly available gital Living Changer
Personal L1B Media
be connected.
Start M
The advanced features of My Changer let you: Play your music discs directly from the Media Changer/Recorder. Copy multiple discs from the Media Changer to your hard drive (Au Create (Burn) multiple DVDs of your favorite TV Series with interve Access a Help file unique to the VGX-XL2 Digital Entertainment Sy
Note: You must have Administrator access rights to access the features and functi Changer. To verify/change access rights, go to Start | Control Panel | User Accou
My Changer My Changer is a Sony fe to Media Center that is o with Sonys VGX-XL2 Di System. To access My features, the VGX-XL2A Computer and the VGP-X Changer/Recorder must
My Changer Music....................... 124
Copy Music................................... 125
Archive TV Series........................ 126
re ger
ic or .
124
Start Menu | My Changer
My Changer Music (Media Changer/Recorder) and My Music (Media Center) a distinct areas in your entertainment system and offer separate features. My Chan Music does not display music discs or files that have been copied to the My Mus Shared Music folders on the hard disk drive. The only Media Changer/Recorder audio CD available in My Music is the current disc in the Media Changers drive
My Changer Music
My Changer Music is a gallery or list of all albums (audio CDs) that are stored in the Media Changer/ Recorder and that have been scanned and identified by Media Center.
From this gallery, you can play an album, and view additional information about an album such as artist, title, and cover art. Select any album to start playback of that CD.
My Changer Music
125
enu | My Changer
ing the Select py Music rt Copying to ppear next to ailed to copy
s with the number
usic
Start M
Select albums/discs to copy by selecting them individually, or by choos All button. When complete, select the Copy Music command. The Co screen shows only those albums selected for you to review. Select Sta begin the copying process. As each disc is copied, a check mark will a each completed album in the list. An X appears next to albums that f successfully.
Note: This process can be time consuming. The time required to copy all discs varie of discs selected and the length of each disc.
Copy Music
Copy Music is a feature that lets you copy multiple discs to the My Music folder on the hard disk drive. Once discs are copied, they will show as gallery albums in My Music where you can access the files and play the albums as you normally would in Media Center.
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Playing Copied Music
Even though you can play your music from My Changer, it is recommended that you take advantage of the Copy Music feature, which allows you to rip your music CDs to your hard disk, where you can take full advantage of the many My Music features in Media Center.
Eject Copied Discs
Once you have ripped your selected music CDs to your hard disk, you might want to remove the copied discs from the changer since the music can now be access from My Music. Select the Eject Copied Discs option to eject all discs that were successfully copied to the hard disk.
Multi-tasking During Ripping
Once the ripping process begins, a progress bars appears in the list on the album currently being copied. Since the ripping process can be time consuming, you can leave the progress screen to do other activities.
If you leave the progress screen, you can return by going back to My Changer and selecting Copy Music.
Trouble Shooting
If an album does not successfully copy, eject the disc and check for scratches on the surface of the disc and then try again.
Warning: During the ripping proces do not try to access the changer fro My DVDs or Manage Discs.
Copy Music Helpfu l Hints
127
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Note: After you select Start, it is recommended that you do not leave the Archive TV archiving process has started. Leaving the screen could affect the archiving process can access other areas outside of Media Center.
Archive TV The Archive TV feature is used to create DVDs of an entire recorded TV series or selected episodes of a series. The Archive TV screen displays a list of all recorded TV series. After selecting a series, the Select Episode screen displays a list of all episodes for the series.
After selecting episodes for archiving, a message appears informing you of the number of blank discs required and whether there are enough blank discs in the Media Changer.
This process can be time consu time required varies with the nu length of each episode selected Note: This feature should not be used partys copyrights.
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Note: For addional information about Archiving TV, see the VGP-XL1B Changer/Recorder User G that was included with your packaging materials.
Before You Archive
In order not to have your archiving process interrupted, insert the required number of blank DVDs into the changer before you begin and then go to My DVDs or More Programs > Manage Discs so the blank discs can by scanned and identified by Media Center.
Trouble Shooting
Please check your media type.
Note: Archive TV Show supports Dual-Layer DVDs (DVD+R DL).
Required Blank Discs
When archiving TV shows, My Changer provides an estimate of the number of blank discs needed to record or archive the episodes you have selected to make sure the archiving process in not interrupted.
Note: Calculations are based on the assumption that all discs used for archiving are single-sided.
Copy Protected Shows
You may not be able to archive som TV shows because they may be cop protected. If you select to archive a show that has been copy protected, the following message appears.
This show has been encrypted (protected) by the broadcaster and cannot be copied and played back o any player other than the one recorded to.
Archive TV Helpfu l Hints
129
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Create CD/DVD Burn pictures for slide shows, video files, and reco
Create DVD VAIO added value program to archive recorded TV
Internet Explorer
Opens a version of Internet Explorer that can be through your remote control.
InterVideo Allows you to define audio and visual settings.
Manage Discs Media Changer/Recorder feature: See next page f
Messenger Opens Windows Messenger for instant text mess
Sync to Device Assists in synchronizing media to a portable media
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130
Start Menu | My Changer
Manage Discs Tools:
Scan and identify new discs in the changer and update disc data in the library
Sort the changer library by name or type. Type allows you to verify the numbe discs in the changer for each type of media. This is useful when archiving a T series or creating other DVDs to determine the number of blank discs availab
Eject discs. Remove media from the changer by selecting the Eject button.
Note: Any disc in any drive can also be accessed from Windows Explorer or My Computer.
Manage Discs The Manage Discs feature gives you the tools you need to control the portion of your media library stored in the Media Changer.
The main screen shows a list of all media in the changer sorted by name or type. If no metadata is found, the volume name displays.
Manage Discs
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The Types of media that can be stored in the changer include:
Note: For addional information about the VGP-XL1B Changer/Recorder, see the User Guide with your packaging materials.
Select this type... To do this...
Audio CD Plays CDs. For additional features, links direct Centers My Music by selecting the viewport w
DVD Plays DVD movies. For additional features, lin Media Centers My DVDs by selecting the view
Data CD/DVD Places the data disc in the drive. To access the Windows Explorer or to My Computer. The c drive appears as DVD-RAM drive in My Comp
Blank CD/DVD Records videos, pictures, recorded TV, or mus
Error Displays if disc is inserted wrong or is unreada
Supported Media
CD-R, CD-RW, DVD+-R/RW, DVD+R DL Double Layer Media, Redbook Audio CDs, Movie DVDs (Region 1, U.S.is default.)
Warning:
VGX-XL2 does not support DualDisc Media.
Do not insert unsupported media types into the Media Cha Inserting a nonstandard-sized or -shaped disc into a drive t to accommodate it may damage the drive. The 120 mm ro only size and shape that should be used unless otherwise
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Note: For addional information about the VGP-XL1B Changer/Recorder, see the User Guide tha included with your packaging materials.
Loading Media Changer Unloading Media Changer
1 Make sure the Changer/Recorder is properly connected to the Personal Computer and is turned on.
Note: When loading discs, make sure that the label is facing to the right of the slot.
2 To load a single disc, press the Load button once and insert the disc. To load multiple discs, press the Load button twice and insert each disc in the slot one at a time. The changer keeps rotating open slots until all are filled or no until no disc is inserted after 15 seconds.
3 Once the discs have been inserted, they must be scanned by Media Center before they can be viewed. Go to More Programs and select Manage Discs or to My DVDs
4 Click Yes on the NEW DISCS FOUND message to update your library with the new disc information.
To eject discs using Media Center
1 From Media Center, go to My Changer and select Manage Dis
2 Select the Eject button associate with the disc you want to eject.
To eject discs manually:
1 Press the Eject button one time t eject the last inserted disc.
or
2 Press the Eject button two times eject all discs in the changer slots the disc is not removed from the s the eject process will time out and stop after approximately 10 secon
Note: This will not eject the disc the changer optical drive. You mu go to Media Center to eject the la disc. See steps 1 through 2 of To eject discs using Media Center
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Each of the programs that More Programs offers you access to, conta to provide you with the assistance you need to complete your desired review the help information to find out more about each of these progr
Internet Explorer
Your VGX-XL2A personal computer allows you to search the Internet f comfort of your favorite chair using the wireless keyboard (recommen VAIO remote control.
To use your remote control, must perform the following setup procedur
From Internet Explorer, go to Tools > Remote Control Option an Enable Remote Control ... check box.
When you first open Internet Explorer using your remote control, you w Operation Guide located at the bottom of the screen. From here, you various Modes such as scrolling, navigation and others.
Related manuals for Sony VGX-XL2 Entertainment Guide
en
Manualsnet FAQs
If you want to find out how the VGX-XL2 Sony works, you can view and download the Sony VGX-XL2 Entertainment Guide on the Manualsnet website.
Yes, we have the Entertainment Guide for Sony VGX-XL2 as well as other Sony manuals. All you need to do is to use our search bar and find the user manual that you are looking for.
The Entertainment Guide should include all the details that are needed to use a Sony VGX-XL2. Full manuals and user guide PDFs can be downloaded from Manualsnet.com.
The best way to navigate the Sony VGX-XL2 Entertainment Guide is by checking the Table of Contents at the top of the page where available. This allows you to navigate a manual by jumping to the section you are looking for.
This Sony VGX-XL2 Entertainment Guide consists of sections like Table of Contents, to name a few. For easier navigation, use the Table of Contents in the upper left corner.
You can download Sony VGX-XL2 Entertainment Guide free of charge simply by clicking the “download” button in the upper right corner of any manuals page. This feature allows you to download any manual in a couple of seconds and is generally in PDF format. You can also save a manual for later by adding it to your saved documents in the user profile.
To be able to print Sony VGX-XL2 Entertainment Guide, simply download the document to your computer. Once downloaded, open the PDF file and print the Sony VGX-XL2 Entertainment Guide as you would any other document. This can usually be achieved by clicking on “File” and then “Print” from the menu bar.