Sony Vaio Z i5/i7 (VPCZ1) Official Owners Thread Part 2

The Vaio Z11-Z14 series can use a LIF drive (unique to this laptop and a bit hard to find), or a 1.8" microSATA (not mSATA) drive. You would need to purchase a special cable to get either of these to work.

See:
http://forum.notebookreview.com/son...laptop-newmodeus-hdd-caddy-review-photos.html
http://forum.notebookreview.com/sony/511578-how-replace-ssd-vaio-vpcz11-vpcz12-non-sony-ssd.html

 

Hi there !

I just wanted to know if someone has an european-based alternative for this 2nd hard drive / SSD caddy - Sony VAIO Z, Z11, Z12, Z13, VPC [SONY-2BAY-Z11] - $43.00 : NewmodeUS, Hard Drive Caddys for Notebooks keeping me for spending 20 bucks for shipping !
I saw some alternatives but this model is the only I saw which offer a perfect intergration with the design of the Vaios dvd-drive cover!

Cheers!

 

Anyone recommend a good fingerprintsensor-driver? I quite regulary updated it from upek, but the one I have now (1.6.1.341 from 08.08.2012) isn't reacting very well unfortunately. And I remember that the original driver from sony didnt work well either.

 

i'm using the latest one from the Sony site and it looks/works fine.
Sony eSupport - VPCZ133GX - Support
Then click on "Security" and select the "Protector Suite 2009 Software" Good wishes to you!!

 

Thanks! Will try this one.

 

Hello all, I have had my VPCZ1 for quite some time now. I would like to do a clean install, but it seems nobody has posted in the clean install thread for quite some time. I am most certainly a beginner and do not want anything to go wrong. So, I was wondering if anyone has done this recently? Secondly, I am also wondering if a fix was found for the Vaio Window Organizer, because I saw that it would not work after clean install, but you can extract from recovery image. I am not sure how to try this. Or can anyone give me an updated approach on how I should go about clean installing W7 on my Z. I have already backed up files and documents I need, but my Z is really messy and disorganized and giving me some issues. Such as lag on FN buttons such as volume. Also when I switch from speed to stamina there is a great delay and it does not switch some times. Also, it freezes up sometimes and I have to use the power button to shut down. So, I think I would like to do a clean install. I believe I am free of any infections. Please help me, I really enjoyed my Z, but recently it has been really frustrating and I've been wanting to get a new notebook.

 

Maybe you can just do the normal recovery and decline when it asks you if you want to copy the add-ons. It will save you ~10GB but still waste 1.5GB.

 

Thanks for the tip. Do you know what exactly, the add-ons are? I don't really mind that if it will resolve the issue I am facing now. Could you explain in more detail of the add-ons...I don't mind doing this losing 1.5 gb is not really a big deal for me. Thanks again

 

Normally the Vaio Z1 comes with a recovery partition copied onto the hard drive which is a copy of some of the stuff on the Recovery DVDs. When you decide to wipe everything on your computer you can reinstall using the recovery DVDs which will install all of the Sony utilities and drivers instead of a clean install. Well, actually come to think of it the Sony utilities will take up space as well, but you should have the option of not creating the recovery partition (which you don't need if you have the Recovery DVDs) which will save you some space on the hard drive.

 

OK THANKS FOR ALL THE HELP BUT I AM IN NEED OF MORE HELP.

So, I made Recovery DVDs, but used the ASSIST button to recover Windows. But, my problems are still present.

3 issues that I need help with.

1) My Vaio Z no longer switches for example moving speed to stamina will not happen unless I restart the computer (issue was present before factory reset switches with huge delay as well)
2) FN keys used to delay for example if I changed volume I would press it and then literally 3-5 minutes later it would change the volume. Now it seems function keys are not working at all. Huge delay/lag
3) Previously the Button between Assist and Vaio (the Vaio Window Organizer) used to function properly, but since factory reset it no longer works.

Can someone guide me in the direction to getting my Vaio Z back working properly. Should I try restoring using the Recovery DVD I made instead. Or are there fixes for these issues??

Please Help

 

Did recover reinstall everything from scratch and ask you to create a new Windows profile and set the language, time and all of that?

 

Yea I had to set the time and date. I had to re-register, but that's all haha I was half asleep, but I really want to fix this. It is crazy like I will switch from speed to stamina and like 20 minutes later I will get the notification and then it will switch. Or if I use FN + volume then like 5 minutes later the volume will change.

Thanks again. I really need some help and would highly appreciate any I can.

I tried reinstalling this time with my recovery DVD, turned out they were not working. So, now no OS. So, subsequently tried using ASSIST button and it worked again except I got an error like towards the end and some of the drivers did not install. But, I installed the remaining drivers from the VPCZ1290x support page. Anyways, now I guess it is up to where it is the first time I reinstalled. Except missing my factory Sony wallpapers lol. But, really I would like to solve this problem once in for all if anyone can help please PM me.

 

I have the same problem lately. Did you find a resolution? A fresh install will cure it but I'd rather find the cause and resolve it.

 

As a new Z owner , Z12V9E/X just bought used, thought I'd share the updates done in last 4 weeks.

Original screen 1600 x 900 replaced with a 1920 x 1080 (LT131EE11000) same connector just swapped over and works perfectly... icons a bit small now

New plam pad to replace worn one, replaced QWERTY keyboard with new french AZERTY backlit, replaced 3 way speed, stamina, auto switch to one less worn and scratched. Fitted complete new dark grey aluminium top plate, previous one a bit scratched.... super hard to swap but done ok.

Removed the UJ892 DVD player and replaced with a brand new UJ242 LENOVO branded (FRU P/N 45N7459 firmware REV: 1 01). With lid removed, brackets from UJ892 swapped, and re-fitted using 3 of 4 assembly screws to mount, plus swapped face plate, works perfectly and eject button next to VAIO key fully operational... superb BLU RAY DRIVE, sounds super slick when running....

Also noted how the LENOVO UJ242 weighs in at 123grams with Lenovo top plate removed compared to the UJ892 at 87grams....

Next mods.... new lid, new microsata SSDs, fit secondhand mint base and new ram cover, may be upgrade the WIFI to a three antenna 6300intel

 

Hello, I have also a Vaio Z12.

How do you know to change everything inside your laptop? I do not have a service manual or something similar... Your input would be nice - because I have a heat problem growing... Already looked inside to change the dvd with a second hdd - but not more.

Thanks, Walter

 

Over time the dust build-up in the fan area can prevent the cooling from being as effective. You can try blowing some compressed air in there.

For myself, I usually like to put something against the fan to keep it from overspinning whenever I blow compressed air on it like that.

 

Thanks Oscar, I tried already with compressed air. Some dust came out - but did not solve the problem.

One point I see if both cores are working 100%: Only core 1 goes over the 105° limit, core 0 always stay in the Intel working area (max. 105°). Is this normal behaviour that the 2 cores of my i7-620M have different max. temperature?

 

Hi Walter K,

For your heat issue, its likely that there is loads of dust inside and they air spray will work, but its better to have the laptop open to really get at the fan and clean it, mine was cleaned with a soft artist brush and household vacuum cleaner and even with full access the dust was hard to shift, but now it is clean.

On you question of how to know what to do.....I'm no expert but did loads and loads of reading on the web to basically understand the z series model, what other people had done and what is & isn't possible. Must also confess that I have rebuilt two Sony Vaios, an FZ11Z and an FZ31Z.... and what I learnt was that you need to understand the different specifications of each vaio in say the FZ range or as here in the Z12,Z13,Z14 series range. That way you get to understand what is going to work with the motherboard or not. As an example, the 2007 FZ31Z model I reworked originally had a T7300 2.GHz Intel CPU, however some research on the web revealed sony made an end of line FZ490 (basically same motherboard as FZ31Z) in the USA which had a T9500 CPU fitted which is 2.6Ghz dual core running at 35W instead of 25W for the T7300. Hence why the computer I am typing this from is a highly modified FZ31Z with the T9500 running perfectly Whats even better is the T9500 will run one of the single cores at 2.8 GHz... so the CPU is really quick and has no overclocking added by me... this is all intels design..... In fact on the Z12V9E/X, I was actually suprised that the i7 620 is only a dual core running 4 threads, its not actually a 4 core i7 which are the generation 2 CPU.

On the Z12, also reading the specifications, as the 1920x1080 screen is an option, I made the assumption that buying one, I could swap the 1600x900 to the 1920x1080 with no problems with connectors or software. I was proved right as it worked first time and change the icons to fit.. no driver needed. As far as knowing how to take the Z12 apart... I must admit they are very delicate inside, the connectors are some of the smallest I have ever seen and you need to have a camera to take pictures of the positions of cables, screws, boards, ribbons to ensure you know how to put it together again once dismantled. I also ensure i either wear an anti-static strap on the wrist or just keep touching an earth point before touching any electronic boards. Other than that, working on the Z12 inside is quite easy...

I actually completely dismantled my Z12 last saturday to fit a mint condition used base, previous owner had lost all but one of the base rubbers and glued in some others ... horrible. So, I can say I know the Z12 fully disassembled and its quite a masterpiece of design by sony. Motherboard is super compact, ribbon cables everywhere, fan and its metal case is strangely quite a heavy little unit an looks very well made... think it was a Toshiba fan.

Anyway in conclusion, its fairly straight forward to mod the Z12, to replace an upgrade parts and if you look on the web hard enough there is a copy of the service manual parts list. I was also quite surprised when doing research into the Z12 series vaio, that they did a Z14 in Japan, with a 1TB SSD in raid 0, think it was 4 x 256GB SSDs... and they added option for a deep red top cover. And a wierd bit of useless info is the Japanese Z's have four extra keys over the european and US models, and a tiny space bar....

That all for now as I have just bought another Z.... this time a used Z13Z9E/X quad 256 SDD with a i7640, original Blu ray DVD and original 1920 x 1080 screen. Just reset the RAID 0 array and left the SSDs to perform Garbage collection for 10 hrs (just leave it on unused and SSD flashes away doing its own version of TRIM)... running quite fast on the SSDs now.... oh and it was a good price as it has a dented keyboard frame, so I need to replace this with a new one... due in soon..... The frames dent easy because sony remove loads of material to make the thickness down to 0.78mm, so very very light but not too strong... this used one had a knock to the side by the on off switch and it caused the front side to buckle by the loudspeaker grille.... hence good price

 

so contacted now Sony and the Sony service centers.They all refuses or are not allowed to sell any parts to customers instead of batteries and power cord. If this is legal in the EC is another question... The German agent on phone was friendly, but is not allowed to help me. I have no time to rent another laptop and to install all my software - that costs near me the same as buying new one...

I have so far 2 service manuals found in the net for the Z12 - both mention this part number for fan (+ cooling element): 1-787-943-12

And found this on Ebay from european seller: Sony Vaio VPC Z Series Fan and Heatsink 1 787 943 12 | eBay - already bought now

That should be the right part for me?

Thanks, Walter

 

Not had the time to get the temps for the Z12 yet.... will let you know

Here is a German supplier who may help with other parts if you need them after the fan...

http://laptopservice-frankfurt.de

 

Thank you!! That seems to be a good address - many sony parts. :thumbsup:

 

Is there anything new on using the PMD with windows 8 on the z21?

 

In which respect? I'm running it on Win 8 without any problems (using it for graphics acceleration only though).

 

Hi there !

Long time no posting on this thread !

A problem appears in my Z13 the other day : A column of defective pixels appeared! (900 px) It appears white/blue even in the boot loading... !

Is this problem appeared from anyone of you guys? Shall I wait for it to disappear from itself? Calling for the warranty?

Cheers !

 

so I want report that I changed in the meantime the cooling elements together with the fan.

Now my laptop works again - both cores rech "hot" 95° Celsius as MAX. So in summer could be hotter again...

 

Running Windows 8 is what i´m interested in

Which driver you´ve installed? Is everything working, switch from ATI to intel with undocking?

 

i have vaio z137gx i bought it with no backlit keyboard. Is it possible to buy backlit keyboard and replace the recent keyboard? any stores that you can suggest?

 

hi i just dropped my vpcz1390s and eaven inside the havily padded carying case the aluminum and the hings twisted i'm looking for the part number of the aluminum plate (us keybord housing) ad the hings cover in black any one has any idear of the part number and wher i can find them or wher i can buy please please please please please please please please please please ........................

 

Seen quite a few Z's being broken for spares on ebay, check them out but beware, the aluminium is only 0.78mm thick and you need one in really good condition.

 

I think my Vpcz 1 has officially died. If anyone can helpme diagnose whats wrongi would really be grateful. Ive had had many unsolved issues with my z but could really use a quick fix. I keep getting a black screen at boot. I think my ssd may have failed. I have many other issues with my z a d am really disappointed seeing as it is only a bit over 2 years old. Please help

 

Hello Group
I am having problems burning dvd on my SONY VAIO VPCZ128GG , this happened after 3 years of ownership. i tried using Convertxtodvd and Nero 10 and had the same problem.. When the burn starts its stops and burning software says, burn failure.. Nero states Power calibration error which means the DVD recorder needs firmware update...
Can somebody guide me how to do this.. my email is roybasan .at gmail.com.. Thanks in advance..

 

I have a dvd drive for the vpc z1 for sale which might well fix all of this. It has not been used much at all, so the laser should be ok.

Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk 2

 

Does anyone have working raid 0 trim yet by tinkering with the bios optionrom and raid drivers? It is officially supported for series 7 chipsets and supposedly possible for earlier intel raid chip sets.

Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk 2

 

Well I think the Vaio Z dvd ram drive might be faulty or the lens might be already blind. so its stop writing disk ..
Now my next problem is the buzzing sound that comes when this laptop is started.. I am worried this is the fan, The location of the sound is in the left side near the video card.. Does it mean that the video card fan is becoming defective..? Is there a DIY solution for this?
Thank You!
Regards

 

Did anybody install fingerprint scanner to the model that originally was shipped without FP/TPM?

I have VPCZ13 without TPM/Finger Scanner. I recently got a board marked as "working" with fingerprint scanner and I'm trying to replace my old one which does not have the scanner originally.

The board(and touchpad keys) replacement has been done. The "TouchStrip Fingerprint Scanner (WBF advanced mode)" device appeared in Device Manager, Protector Suite (with last update) is installed. I try to register my fingerprint but all my attempts are failed. I often use FP scanner on VGN-TT and VGN-Z so I'm familiar with Protector Suite which works fine for me on the other VAIO except on this one with the "NEW" FP Scanner.

I have VPCZ13 with R3031C3 BIOS (advanced menu activated). I set up the default values in BIOS before and after the board replacement. There is no TPM (originally) installed but I understand there are a lot of VPCZ1 models were shipped with Finger Scanner and without TPM module. All functions (all keys, touchpad, backlit, speakers etc) works fine except the fingerptint scanner. What could be wrong? Are there any chance to make it work? It looks like the scanner is detecting placing the finger but it is not able to read/identify fingerprins.

 

Hi,

I have a VAIO Z VPCZ112GX/S laptop. Two of my keys on my keyboard have broken off. Unfortunately, a bit of plastic broke from the key pad blow the key cover, so I can't simply snap it back on properly. I called around, and it looks like I need to replace the whole keyboard (unless I try gluing the keys back on). The part number I was given is 148766022. The cost for a new keyboard is fairly high ($150-$190 plus shipping), considering I want to fix 2 keys on a 3 year old laptop. I'm wondering if anyone knows of similar laptops to the VPCZ series that use the same keyboard that I can look for for parts. As well, please let me know if anyone has any tips for trying to glue the keys back on, in case I want to try that first

Thanks in advance!
Will

 

what parts did you replace and where did you get them? My CPU has reach max temps and is shutting down when doing more intensive stuff like video editing. did you replace the thermal compound too? thanks.

 

You should know that replacing the thermal paste is a major operation.
It ALL has to come apart for that one!

One thing to do first, if you haven't already done so, is to blow all the dust out of the fan (which requires no disassembly)

 

Hello,

I've been noticing that my unit has been becoming slower recently. Loading web pages in Chrome/IE/Firefox all seem slower. It's definitely not the connection speed because my school provides 600 Mbit/s internet. I've also tried a hard reset to factory conditions and it still doesn't feel as snappy as it was when I first got it.

Anyone know what could be going on? Laptop is a little over 3 years old.

 

Unbinding the RAID array, doing a secure erase (easy with something like Parted Magic) and rebinding it usually helps.

 

have a question about Z13 from the experts here:

my sister's Z13 is having intermittent lock-ups, and they are more prevalent on NVIDIA GPU than on Intel GPU, but they still happen once a day or so even on the Intel GPU. i though they were heat-related, so i told her to just use the iGPU (by setting the graphics switch to STAMINA), which helped, but her laptop still locks up from time to time.

has anyone seen something similar?

 

I use my HDMI port frequently connecting to my TV (plugging/unplugging ~5 times a week). My HDMI connector seems to be wearing out, where the slightest touch could cause the screen to flicker or turn off. Is it possible to replace the HDMI connector?

EDIT: I took my computer apart, and found that the HDMI and 2 x USB are on their own board called IFX-545. It comes out pretty easily, so I ordered a spare for $20.

 

^ i believe it's soldered to the motherboard.

 

anybody encountered a similar issue?

 

I had my computer lock up pretty frequently while using Chrome. Apparently there was a conflict between Chrome and the audio driver. It seems to have gone away after I installed this Realtek Audio driver update.

Also, I recommend that you download CPUID temperature monitor to see if the computer overheats.

 

^ thanks for the tip about audio driver. it's actually my sister's computer, but she indeed uses Chrome. i'll update the audio driver; hopefully, it'll fix the lockups. i'm also using HWMonitor to check the CPU temperatures. it can get pretty toasty (around 80C or so) under load. she's been using that laptop constantly for about 2.5 years now, and i bet it's full of dust and can use a good clean-up. i might do that later, but for now, i'll start with the audio driver.

 

^ updating the Realtek audio drivers seems to have solved the lock-ups. thanks hawc1506.

 

Anytime! Glad it worked

 

I had the same problem with Google Chrome. I will try the Audio driver soon and report too... Thanks!