VAIO Care Version 6 Helpful Information
>> VAIO Care - Welcome
>> Starting VAIO Care
>> How to use VAIO Care Help
>> Updating VAIO Care
>> VAIO Care Features
>> VAIO Status
>> System Care
>> One Click Care
>> VAIO Care Report - Performance Section
>> VAIO Care Report - Check Up Section
>> System Tune-up
>> Troubleshooting
>> Diagnostics
>> Hardware
>> Battery
>> Hard Drive
>> Memory Test
>> Recovery and Restore
>> Restore
>> Recovery
>> Restore Complete System
>> Reinstall Programs and Drivers
>> Creating Recovery Disc
>> Options Menu
>> Contact Sony
>> Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
>> Glossary
To keep your new VAIO® computer at peak performance, Sony has created the VAIO Care™ program. This program is designed to:
- Automatically monitor your computer's performance on a regular schedule.
- Provide summary reports of your computer's health.
- Locate troubleshooting advice, information, and instructions.
- Troubleshoot performance issues.
- Provide access to easy-to-use diagnostic tools.
- Cross-reference to helpful information located in VAIO® Help and Support or online.
- Access the Internet to keep the VAIO Care program updated.
- Connect to valuable services that support a problem-free computing experience.
Note
Certain VAIO Care features and programs are not available in all countries, regions, or areas. Certain restrictions may also apply. Visit the Sony® Support Website for your country, region, or area, to check availability.
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- Click the Start icon, and then click VAIO Care.
- Point to the VAIO Gate area at the top of the screen and then click the VAIO Care icon. You are directed to the VAIO Status section of the VAIO Care program.
- Press the Assist button on the computer. You are directed to the Troubleshooting section of the VAIO Care program. Your computer may not be supplied with an Assist button.
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VAIO Care Help (this guide) is intended to support your understanding and use of the application. It is important to maintain the hardware and software components of your VAIO computer to avoid future issues. You can access this guide by clicking on the Help icon in the upper right corner of the window.
Note
While you are running a VAIO Care diagnostic, making repairs or performing a recovery, do not open or use other software programs.
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VAIO Care checks for updates once a week, however you can manually update your version of VAIO Care online. An Internet connection is required to use this VAIO Care feature.
1. Click Start and then click VAIO Care to start the application.
2. From the Windows task tray, right-click the VAIO Care icon.
3. From the shortcut menu, click Check for Updates.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to download the latest VAIO Care updates.
Note
VAIO Update 5.0 is required for downloading the latest VAIO Care patches from the Internet. If you do not have VAIO Update 5.0 or later, this option will not be available.
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The VAIO Care program, along with its tools and reports, is not intended to replace proper care and maintenance of your computer. Use properly configured antivirus, antispyware, firewall, and related security programs.
VAIO status
Provides a health status of your system from the last health check. You can run this test by clicking the Update Health Status button. This is the place to start checking your computer for issues. If the VAIO Status window states "Your Computer is Healthy" no further testing is needed. However if "Items that need your attention" are identified, you click the Fix All Items button to deal with all the issues at once or use the System Care / One Click Care / One Click Care Report area of VAIO Care to fix each issue individually.
Note
This health status check is not done automatically when you launch VAIO Care. Click the Update Health Status button again to ensure that your status is up-to-date and any issues are no longer detected. VAIO Status will provide the date and time that the last health test took place.
System care
One Click Care
Full performance maintenance through an instant assessment of your entire computer system. A comprehensive report is generated, listing all recommended repairs.
System Tune-up
Regular maintenance tasks can be performed, such as defragmenting your built-in storage device or cleaning up the Windows® system registry.
Troubleshooting
This VAIO Care feature provides troubleshooting advice and solutions for some common issues. You can get immediate help with the following:
- Input & output - Run diagnostic tests on your keyboard and mouse and locate the best solution.
- Storage & media - Identify issues with your optical drive(s), such as availability, recording, or playback.
- Network & wireless - Use Help and Support to set up, diagnose, and repair your network or wireless issues.
- Software applications - Use Help and Support to troubleshoot your factory-installed software programs.
- System settings - Find support for driver, firmware, and other system issues.
Diagnostics
The hardware diagnostic tests the functionality of your computer's hardware components.
Recovery & restore
This VAIO Care feature provides repair options to:
- Restore the Windows® operating system to an earlier version using Windows Restore
- Reinstall factory-installed software applications and drivers
- Create recovery media
- Restore your computer to the original factory settings
Contact Sony
Your system information is displayed at the bottom of every page, as well as valuable services that may enhance your computing experience. An Internet connection is required to use these services.
Product Information
You will find all of your computer’s information required by technical support services.
- Model Name
- Serial Number
- Service Tag Number
- Contact Us
Register your VAIO PC
Register all of your Sony products and take advantage of Sony technical support, warranties, and other benefits.
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The VAIO Status is the entry to VAIO Care. VAIO Status provides a quick check of your VAIO to determine its health. The date that the last health check is displayed as well.
Note
This status check is not automatic. You should run this health check often to ensure your VAIO is running at peak performance.
If your VAIO is healthy, the computer image display will appear green. No further action is required.
In the event that you receive a message stating "There are items that need your attention", you can select the Fix All Items button to deal with all the issues (recommended) or troubleshoot each item individually.
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By selecting System Care, you can run tests on your computer using One Click Care or tune-up your computer by selecting System Tune-up.
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This VAIO Care™ feature performs an immediate assessment of your computer system and delivers a comprehensive report that provides information and suggests repairs. The VAIO Care Report notifies you of the status of all items that appear in the report.
You can easily see when:
- There is at least one item that might have a problem.
- No item requires attention at this time.
1. Click Run One Click Care.
- An assessment test of your system is initialized in the same window, showing the progress of each part of the test. The name of each section is displayed as it is being checked.
- A 2-part, tabbed VAIO Care Report is generated in another window.
2. Click on the tabs in the VAIO Care Report, to view detailed information about:
Note
You can find more information by visiting the VAIO eSupport Web site. Click on the eSupport icon located in the upper right corner of Your VAIO Care Report. An Internet connection is required to use this VAIO Care feature.
View Previous Reports
1. Click View Previous Report from the drop down menu to view a list of previously run VAIO Care Reports.
2. Click to select a report. (Each report is identified by the day, date, and time, of the original test.) The report opens in a new window.
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The performance section of your VAIO Care report provides information about startup and usage.
Startup
1. Click the Startup tab to view:
- Windows Startup Time: Lists the length of the first startup time and the monthly average length of the startup time.
- Total Startup Application: Total number of startup applications.
2. Click Advanced to view details about Windows Shutdown Time.
- The length of the first shutdown time.
- The monthly average length of the shutdown time.
Hint
If this information indicates poor performance, go to the Maintenance section to view your options for improving system performance.
Usage
1. Click the Usage tab to view:
- Built-in storage device Usage: The usage levels of all available built-in storage devices are shown in graph format.
- Network Information: You can see your IP address and gateway information. The Ping test results are also shown.
- Battery Health will be displayed.
- Battery Care Function will be displayed if installed on your system.
2. Click Advanced to view information about:
- Network Bandwidth: Month-to-month comparison.
- Disk Bandwidth: Month-to-month comparison.
- CPU Available: Month-to-month comparison.
- Most Frequently Used Applications: A list of the software programs you use frequently.
- Most CPU Intensive Programs: A list of the software programs that demand the most from your central processing unit (CPU).
- Application Failures: A running total (monthly) of those software programs that failed. You can go directly to the Software section in VAIO Care's Troubleshooting section from this report item.
- Windows Failures: A running total (monthly) of operating system failures.
The check up section of your VAIO Care report provides information about your computer's security, settings, updates, and system maintenance.
Security
1. Click the Security tab to view:
- Firewall: Displays the current status of your firewall. You can access the Windows Security Center to make changes or to correct an issue.
- Antivirus: Provides information on the status of your installed antivirus software. If you do not have antivirus software installed, you are prompted to correct the issue. You can access the Windows Security Center to make changes or to correct an issue.
- Antispyware: Displays the current status of your installed antispyware software. If you do not have antispyware software installed, you are prompted to correct the issue. You can access the Windows Security Center to make changes or to correct an issue.
2. Click Fix All to begin the process of correcting issues. When action on your part is required, you are directed to the appropriate program to fix the issue.
Settings
1. Click the Settings tab to view:
- Windows® Automatic Update: Displays the current status of this Windows feature. When enabled, your computer receives both required and optional updates from Microsoft, using an Internet connection. Windows updates are recommended for improving the security and reliability of your computer. You can access the Windows Security Center to make changes or to correct an issue.
- Internet Security: Displays the current status of your Internet security settings. You can access the Windows Security Center to make changes or to correct an issue.
- User Account Control: Verifies that User Account Control (UAC) is enabled. You are prompted to correct this feature by a direct link to the Windows Security Center.
- Device Manager: Verifies your hardware devices and drivers. You are prompted to make any necessary corrections through a direct link to the Windows Device Manager.
- Internet Connectivity: Verifies your wired Internet connection is enabled and configured correctly.
2. Click Fix All to begin the process of correcting issues. When action on your part is required, you are directed to the appropriate program to fix the issue.
Updates
1. Click the Updates tab to view:
- Windows Update: Verifies that your computer’s installed version of Microsoft® Windows® has the latest Microsoft updates.
- VAIO Update: Delivers the latest updates to your factory-installed software programs. This feature runs automatically by checking for updates weekly. When updates are available, the VAIO Update is visible in the Windows task tray.
2. Click Fix All to begin the process of correcting issues. When action on your part is required, you are directed to the appropriate program to fix the issue.
Note
Your computer must be connected to the Internet to use these updating features. If your Internet connection is not working, you are directed to information that can correct the connection issue.
Maintenance
1. Click the Maintenance tab to view:
- Windows: Verifies that your Windows is current.
- Backup Files: Provides options to back up your files or to request that VAIO Care stop checking the Backup Files feature:
- Windows Backup and Restore Center enables the backup individual files or your entire operating system, in the event of hardware failure.
- Do not check this setting disables VAIO Care’s ability to check your computer’s backup status. (Not recommended)
- Disk Defragmenter: Identifies disk fragmentation issues. A link to the Disk Defragmenter is provided to correct issues.
- Disk Cleaner: Identifies potential issues on your built-in storage device. A link to the Disk Cleaner feature is provided to correct issues.
- Registry Defragmenter: Identifies registry issues. A link to the Registry Defragmenter feature is provided to correct issues.
- Registry Cleaner: Identifies registry issues. A link to the Registry Cleaner is provided to correct issues.
2. Click Fix All to resolve all issues. If any further action on your part is required, you are directed to the appropriate program to fix the issue.
Note
An Internet connection is required to use some of these VAIO Care features. If your Internet connection is not working, you are directed to information that can correct the connection issue.
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This VAIO Care feature defragments and cleans your built-in storage device and Windows system registry. You can also use this feature to undo any changes the cleaning has made.
Note
A System Tune-up report may indicate that there are many issues to correct on the built-in storage device or registry (Disk and Registry Cleaner issues). This does not mean that your system is in trouble, as both of these cleaning features remove only unnecessary files. You can select what files are removed by the
Disk Cleaner and
Registry Cleaner, using the
Options Menu.
1. In the System Tune-up area, click Run System Tune-up.
- An assessment of your system is initialized in the same window, showing the progress of each part of the test. The name of each section is displayed as it is being checked.
- A small window appears and displays the location and number of issues found.
2. Click Yes to fix all detected issues. A small window opens, giving an estimate of the time required to fix the issue.
3. Click Yes. When the fix is complete, a small confirmation window appears.
4. Click OK.
Note
The VAIO Care™ defragmenting feature and the Windows® scheduled defragmenting operation are not intended to run simultaneously. If this occurs, it can damage the data on your built-in storage device. When you use System Tune-up, the Windows defragmenting schedule is disabled.
Undo a Previous Cleaning
1. To view previous tune-up information select the Previous Tune-ups drop-down menu to open a list of your recent system tune-ups.
2. Click date and time of the tune-up you want to undo and select the Undo button. The built-in storage device and registry cleaning applied during that tune-up are reversed.
Note
This feature can undo the registry and built-in storage device cleaning only. You cannot undo defragmenting.
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Troubleshooting provides options to locate and resolve issues. This VAIO Care feature provides troubleshooting advice and solutions for some common issues.
1. Click on a topic to open a list of possible issues.
2. Follow the on-screen instructions.
You can also locate additional support by searching Help and Support at any time.
Topics
- Input & Output - Run diagnostic tests on your keyboard and mouse and locate the best solution.
- Storage & Media - Identify issues with your optical drive(s), such as availability, recording, or playback.
- Network & Wireless - Use Help and Support to set up, diagnose, and repair your network or wireless issues.
- Software - Use Help and Support to troubleshoot your factory-installed software programs.
- System Settings - Find support for driver, firmware, and other system issues.
VAIO Assist Button
Certain VAIO® computers are equipped with an Assist button. This button enables immediate access to VAIO Care's troubleshooting features.
When your computer is not performing well, or an issue occurs.
- Press the Assist button on your computer. (See the VAIO User Guide for the location of the Assist button on your computer.)
- VAIO Care starts and the Troubleshooting section is displayed.
- Use the Diagnostic features to resolve your issue.
Note
If you press the Assist button while the VAIO Care program is actively running an operation, such as a System Tune-up, a dialog box displays the message, "VAIO Care is already running".
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Diagnostics provides options to locate and resolve issues. This VAIO Care feature provides testing for hardware common issues.
Hardware
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This VAIO Care feature provides a focused analysis of computer hardware components.
Note
Certain VAIO Care features and programs are not available in all countries, regions, or areas. Certain restrictions may also apply. Visit the Sony® Support Web site for your country, region, or area, to check availability.
CPU
Memory
Hard Drive
Video
CD Drive
DVD Drive
Sony MS Controller
USB
Battery
LAN
1. Click Check Now to view available hardware tests.
2. Click on a hardware component.
For the majority of the listed components, the following occurs:
- The VAIO Hardware Diagnostic application opens a new window that displays the analysis progress.
- If no error is found, a small confirmation message displays.
3. Click OK.
Note
The Video diagnostic causes your LCD monitor to immediately begin a series of color and pattern changes.
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The Battery diagnostic measures the charging performance of your computer's battery. It will display the Battery diagnostics pop-up window showing if your battery is in Excellent, Good, Poor or Critical condition. When your battery measures poor or critical, you will need to replace the battery as soon as possible.
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Select the drive you want to test and select the Start button
More advanced options for testing your hard disk drive are availble in the Options menu. Select the following link to receive information about these advanced hard disk tests:
Advanced Hard Disk Testing Option
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1. Click Memory.
2. The Windows® Memory Diagnostics tool opens in a new window.
3. Select the appropriate option for checking your computer’s memory.
- Restart your computer now and check for issues.
- Wait to check for issues the next time you start your computer.
4. Checking the memory may take several minutes as your computer restarts and the diagnostic runs. Follow the on-screen instructions.
When the memory test is completed, your computer restarts. A small popup window appears if no memory errors are detected.
Note
The memory test may seem to be inactive at times, however it is still running. Do not attempt to use the computer until the testing is completed.
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The options in VAIO Care’s Recovery & Restore feature provide assistance in the event your computer experiences major issues.
The options described in this section are:
- Restore - You can reset your computer to a previous, working state without affecting saved files.
- Recovery - Gives you options to create recovery discs, install or reinstall factory applications and drivers, or recover your computer.
Note
Certain VAIO Care™ features and programs are not available in all countries, regions, or areas. Certain restrictions may also apply. Visit the Sony Support Web site for your country, region, or area, to check availability.
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The Restore Windows option uses a to return your system to an earlier point in time without affecting files. The Windows® System Restore utility automatically creates s at regular intervals and before significant system events, such as software program or driver installation. You can also manually create a using the Backup and Restore feature in the Control Panel.
Note
If the Restore Windows feature does not correct the issue(s), the process can be reversed. This option affects Windows system files, programs, and registry settings, but does not affect personal files, such as e-mail, documents, or photos.
1. Click Recovery & Restore.
2. Click Restore Windows. The System Restore utility starts.
Recommended restore
This is the default option and is recommended because it is the most recent created before a significant change.
1. Select the Recommended restore option.
2. Click Next.
3. Verify that information in Confirm your is correct. You can view the programs affected by this operation by selecting Scan for affected programs.
4. Click Finish. Follow the on-screen instructions.
Choose a different
This option enables you to select from a list of s. The list of s correspond with the name of an event, such as software installation. Select a created before the date and time your system began having issues.
1. Select the Choose a different option.
2. Click Next. A list of s is displayed along with the name of an event.
3. Click to select a . You can view the programs affected by this operation by selecting Scan for affected programs.
4. Click Next.
5. Verify that information in Confirm your is correct.
6. Click Finish. Follow the on-screen instructions.
Additional Information about Windows Restore
- Password reset disc - You can create a password reset disc before restoring your computer. This disc ensures your access to your files and information, especially if you have recently changed your Windows password. Click the link, Create a password reset disc, for more information and instructions.
- Scan for affected programs (and drivers) - You can view which software programs and drivers are to be deleted or restored as a result of this Windows Restore action. Some software programs may not work correctly after being restored and may need to be reinstalled.
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The Recover your VAIO menu provides you with options that will be necessary in the case your VAIO computer software or built-in storage device are experiencing issues that require you to rebuild your computer to its original from the factory condition.
It is recommended that you utilize this area of VAIO Care to create recovery media as soon as possible.
Click on one the links below to get information about the options available:
Restore Complete System - You can restore your hard disk drive back to its original, factory-installed configuration. This option erases all personal files, customized system settings, and software installed after the purchase of the computer.
Install Applications and Drivers - You can reinstall the original, factory-installed software programs and drivers.
Create Recovery Disc - You can create recovery media that can restore your system and settings, in the event of a hard disk drive failure or other system malfunction.
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You can restore your main built-in storage device to the original factory configuration. The amount of time required to complete the restore varies, depending on the amount of software being restored and the speed of your computer.
You may need to recover your computer when:
- Your computer has been infected with a computer virus that cannot be repaired using installed antivirus programs.
- Your computer’s performance is unstable.
- You have deleted the main C: drive on your computer by mistake.
- You want to restore the recovery drive partition to the main built-in storage device.
Using Restore Complete System
The Restore Complete System process requires recovery discs. If you have not created your recovery media, go to
Create Recovery Discs before attempting to recover your computer.
1. Click Recovery & Restore.
2. Click Recover Computer. Your computer restarts, enters Safe mode and the VAIO Recovery Center utility is displayed.
3. Click Restore Complete System.
4. Read the on-screen information, and then click Start.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions until the restore process is complete.
Note
The Restore Complete System feature deletes all personal files, custom settings, and all software installed after the purchase of the computer.
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You can reinstall the original, factory-installed software applications and drivers completely or by selecting individual software programs or drivers.
1. Click Reinstall Programs or Drivers.
2. A window will open, read the on-screen information and click the Next button. This will open the Select applications and drivers window.
3. In the Select applications and drivers window, select the checkbox corresponding to the software program(s) or driver(s) to be reinstalled. Then click the Next button.
4. In the following window, read the on-screen information and then click the Start button, follow the on-screen instructions.
Note
Reinstallation of applications may delete previously saved data. Due to the design of some applications, performing a reinstallation may cause the currently installed version to be uninstalled only. If this is the case, you simply need to select and reinstall this specific software one additional time.
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You can create recovery media that restores your system’s data in the event of a built-in storage device failure, accidental erasure, or system malfunction. Recovery media is used to start your computer when it cannot start properly. Recovery discs are not included with your computer. Sony recommends that you create recovery discs immediately after you begin using your new computer.
- Preparation for media creation - Before the recovery media can be created, you are guided through a series of preparation steps.
- System preparation - verify that your computer is using A/C power, not battery power.
- Disc preparation- verify that you have the correct number and type of discs before you start the creation process. Sony recommends using the highest quality media to create your recovery discs. Blu-ray Disc™ media is not supported for creating recovery media. The following types of DVD media are recommended:
DVD+R
DVD-R
DVD+RW
DVD-RW
DVD-RAM
DVD+R DL (Dual layer)
DVD-R DL (Dual layer)
- Built-in storage device preparation - verify that your built-in storage device has enough free space to create the recovery discs.
If your system, discs, or built-in storage device do not meet the status requirements, you are prompted to make the appropriate corrections before the recovery media process can begin. The Next button is not available if you have not successfully prepared for the process.
Note
Do not use a readable DVD that you have reformatted, to create your recovery media. All data on the disc must be completely erased before using it to create a recovery disc.
Creating Recovery Media(s)
1. Click Create Recovery Media.
2. The Create Recovery Media window will launch. Read the on-screen instructions and click the Next button. This will open the Insert a blank disc and select the drive window.
3. In the Insert a blank disc and select the drive window, you will receive information on the type and number of blank DVDs to utilize for the backup, but before clicking the Next button ensure you have done the following:
- Connecting your computer to A/C power.
- Inserting an appropriate type of blank DVD into the optical disc drive and having the required number of blank DVDs available.
- Having adequate free space on the computer’s built-in storage device.
4. The Proceed creating media window will open. Click Next. A progress bar and time elapse counter are displayed on-screen.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.
Hint
You can select the check box, Verify my disc was created correctly (slower), if you wish to view confirmation messages during the disc burning.
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Open the
Options menu using the
Options icon located in the lower right corner of the window. You can customize One Click Care, Disk Cleaner, Registry Cleaner and Diagnostics options to do the following:
- Set up automatic One Click Care checkups and System Tune-ups.
- Choose the defragment or cleaner features in System TuneUp.
- Decide what areas of the built-in storage device or registry to clean.
- View the date/time of the previous run, as well as the next scheduled checkup and tuneup runs.
- Diagnostics Options:
- Show Advanced diagnostics.
- Download critical & recommended patches.
- Review installed updates.
Hint
If you select the option to enable the Performance Monitor, you can receive a status report of your computer's performance, such as length of startup time, or when the operating system or software programs stop responding.
In the Options menu you can select whether your VAIO computer's key performance metrics dealing with items, such as the CPU, Network performance, and VAIO Care performance be sent to Sony. We use this information to analyze and improve VAIO Care and VAIO computers for the future. No personally identifiable information is collected as a part of this process. If you would like to change your previous selection please use the area of the Options menu that is provided
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VAIO Support delivers technical support excellence by providing:
- Your system’s information required for all technical support or services.
- Access to contact Sony’s online technical support.
- Additional services that enhance your customer experience.
Other links
Register your VAIO PC
It takes a few moments to register all of your new Sony® products. Registration is voluntary and does not affect your limited warranty rights. Registration benefits include:
- Notification of performance issues and software updates.
- Creation of ownership records in case of loss or theft.
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This section describes how to solve common issues that may occur when using the VAIO Care program.
Note
Certain VAIO Care™ features and programs are not available in all countries, regions, or areas. Certain restrictions may also apply. Visit the Sony Support Web site for your country, region, or area, to check availability.
Why do I need to log on to Windows® as an administrator-level user if I am using VAIO Care™ program?
VAIO Care has access to important software programs, when diagnosing and repairing your system. If certain files are deleted or changed, your computer may not work properly. To avoid this type of error, VAIO Care restricts access to administrator-level users. You can find additional information about the different Windows user accounts in VAIO Help and Support.
To access VAIO Help and Support (User Accounts):
1. Click Start and then click Help and Support.
2. Type User Accounts in the Search Help text box.
3. Click on the best result for your inquiry and follow the information provided.
Why doesn't my system status report contain any information?
Your built-in storage device may not have enough space to save the system report. You can try to recover more disk space by running System Tune-up to remove files that are no longer in use. You can also move files from your hard drive by backing them up to DVD media or an external device.
Your computer requires a certain amount of free space to operate efficiently.
Why doesn't the VAIO Care program start?
The first time you start VAIO Care, a User Account Control (UAC) dialog box may appear. This security feature protects your computer from unauthorized changes by asking permission to continue. The software program is identified in the dialog box. You can continue or cancel starting VAIO Care (or other software programs).
Note
If you have other windows open at the same time, this small dialog box may become hidden. A response to the dialog box is required to permit the VAIO Care program to run.
Why does my status report indicate that my computer is not connected to the Internet, when I know I am connected?
VAIO Care requires an active Internet connection to use many of its features. If you receive this type of message, check your Internet connectivity.
To access VAIO Help and Support:
1. Click Start and then click Help and Support.
2. Type Network and Internet connection problems in the Search Help text box.
3. Click on the best result for your inquiry and follow the information provided.
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Battery
The Battery diagnostic measures the charging performance of your computer's battery. It will display the Battery diagnostic pop-up window showing if your battery is good, fair, poor, or critical. When your battery measures poor or critical you will need to replace the battery.
Hard Drive
The Built-in Storage Device also known as your Hard Drive provides the largest data storage for your computer. When in operation, the Built-in Storage Device controls the reading, writing, and location of computer data.
CD Drive
The CD drive diagnostic analyzes the performance of your CD drive. This test requires a CD media with data, to be inserted into the drive.
CPU
The CPU hardware diagnostic analyzes the condition of your computer’s central processing unit (CPU). Your CPU controls your operating system’s speed in accessing software programs.
Device Manager
This is a Windows® operating system applet that enables users to view and control hardware that is installed or connected to their computer.
Disk Cleaner
The Disk cleaner analyzes the files on a built-in storage device, indicates which files may no longer be needed, and then delete those files. Disk Cleanup, used on a regular basis, can significantly improve system performance by freeing significant amounts of built-in storage device space.
Disk Defragmenter
Disk defragmenting increases your computer’s access speed by rearranging the files on your built-in storage device. This defragmenting can also improve Windows startup time.
DVD Drive
The DVD drive diagnostic analyzes the performance of your DVD drive. This test requires a DVD media with data, to be inserted into the drive.
Firewall
Integrated security measures that prevent unauthorized electronic access to your computer, when it is connected to other computers (in a network) or connected to the Internet. A firewall uses both hardware and software features to prevent unauthorized Internet access.
LAN
The Local Area Network (LAN) diagnostic checks the configuration of your wired Internet connection only. It does not check wireless network devices. This test examines the functionality of your ethernet (LAN) or modem (dial-up) - whichever wired method is being used.
Note
If the LAN diagnostic discovers an issue with your wired Internet connection, you are directed to the Internet
Connection Wizard to correct the issue.
Refer to your VAIO User Guide for more information about connectors and switches.
- Ethernet (LAN) card - Verify that the Ethernet cable is properly inserted into the Ethernet connector on your computer, and that the other end is properly connected to your network modem, switch, or router. The Ethernet (LAN) and modem (phone line) connectors on your computer are similar in appearance but have different sizes.
- Modem (Internal and external) - Verify your modem is enabled and properly connected. An internal modem is operated by software. If you are using an external modem, verify that it is connected properly to an external power supply which is also properly connected, and that the device drivers and software applications are correct and functioning properly.
Memory
The memory diagnostic analyzes your computer’s memory (RAM) for errors. When checking computer memory, the Windows® Memory Diagnostics Tool opens, providing options for how the memory check is handled. Follow the on-screen instructions to analyze your computer's memory. Checking the memory may take several minutes.
Sony MS Controller
The Sony MS Controller diagnostic examines the performance of the Memory Stick drive and related software (driver). This test does not check Memory Stick® media.
PC Card
The PC (or CF) card drive diagnostic analyzes the performance of your CF or PC drive. This test requires the appropriate media with data, to be inserted into the drive.
Note
The same slot is used for both CF and PC card media. Only one type of card can be used at any given time.
Ping
This basic computer network tool performs a self-test of your computer’s ability to communicate over an IP network (using its network interface hardware). Pinging sends an ”r;echo request” to a target host on the network, and then listens for an appropriate response.
Registry Cleaner
Your computer’s registry contains information about its configuration. The registry grows as you use your computer, collecting information that becomes obsolete and unnecessary. This slows the performance of the system. Registry cleaning scans the computer’s registry for these issues, enabling your system to run faster and error free.
Registry Defragmenter
Your computer’s registry is continuously being modified and growing as you install or remove programs or configure system settings. Over time the registry loses its original, linear structure that causes slower system response and registry access time. Registry defragmenting restores a linear structure as it removes unused entries. This process can improve your system’s speed and registry response time.
At regular intervals, the Windows Restore utility captures a snapshot of your computer’s data and settings from a specific date and time. If you have made changes that are creating issues, you can return your system to a previous before the changes.
USB
The Universal Serial Bus (USB) diagnostic checks the operation of the USB port(s) on your computer. This test examines the USB interface and drivers only - it does not check attached USB devices.
Note
Disconnect all USB devices from the computer’s USB ports before beginning the USB diagnostic. The USB ports are checked individually. Run the test for each USB port.
User Account Control (UAC)
This security feature increases the security of your computer by asking permission for those tasks that require administrator-level rights, such as installing software or changing settings. When a UAC dialog box appears, read the information carefully before allowing or disallowing the program to proceed. You can manage this feature using the Windows Security Center.
VAIO User Guide
- Click Start.
- Click Help and Support.
- Click Use my VAIO, and then select the link for the VAIO User Guide.
Video
The Video diagnostic checks the performance of your computer’s video card (display adapter) and video driver. These components deliver images to the LCD screen.
Windows
Your Windows operating system periodically records the current status of your computer. These ”snapshots” are called s. These s enable you to return the operating system to a previous, working version. Go to VAIO Help and Support for more information about s.
Windows Security Center
All of your computer’s security features can be managed from this location:
Windows Startup Time
The amount of time your computer requires to start the operating system when you turn it on. VAIO Care monitors the startup time in two ways:
- The first time you turn your new computer on. (This includes the first time you start your computer after restoring the original factory-installed settings using your recovery discs.)
- The startup times as averaged over a month period.
Improve Windows startup time using System Tune-up.
Windows task tray
The task tray portion of the Windows® taskbar is located at the lower right of your monitor, next to the clock icon. The task tray contains miniature icons of useful or frequently used applications.
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