Vaio FZ Owners Official Owners Thread

Yeah, this is a known issue and was discussed before in this thread. Most people (like myself, before i was pointed at it....) don't seem to notice it though.

 

Well i took the plunge and got a new sealed FZ31s off ebay for £650!!
First thing i did was overclock the 8600m gs to 600/800 so i could get better performance than the 8600gt! i had to use the drivers 169.04, the only problem being is if i want to watch a bluray i have to install official drivers. the 169.04s let you overclock but not have bluray playback. I have a few questions and im sorry if they have been asked before:

1. Does upgradingfrom 2gb of ram to 3gb of ram make a performance increase in games?
2. Are there any nvidia drivers for the 8600m gs that allow overclocking and blueray playback?
3. Is the FZ Docking Station worth it? Does it decrease performance in areas?

Thanks

 

newly registered, i just have to ask this question. I have done this once before that's why it really annoys me. I have installed XP on my Vaio FZ11S . And have fixed the graphics, sounds, and various other things now.

But ! I need the "original drivers package" and "original utilities package" for the fz11s but there are only packages for Vista for my model at the sony vaio support site.

So; Last time i did this i found out that there were a previous vaio version whose XP-packages worked with my model too. I guess this one works with all / most the FZ vaios. If i remeber correctly not all drivers/utilities worked but most of them.

My main problem now is that i can't acces "power options" from the control panel because i get an error with the powercfg.cpl file.

So what vaio versions packages can i use for my FZ ?

cheers

 

hey guyz asked this before but i guess it was on the 200 page..

could anyone tell me what kinda games are compatible with fz 240eb ... i dont think the graphic card is of high power so im guessing its just standard....

 

I got my FZ (minus BlueRay) from MicroCenter in May08, love it, its fast & powerful, no problems yet.
I own a Dell XPS1330 & XPS1530, a refurbed NR in Wenge colour.
Sold a Sony SZ120, and an FE, none of my VAIO's have ever had any problems, I max out the RAM on everything I own, think VAIO's are the most elegant.

 

Im posting in this thread after a very long time. I used to be a regular visitor & contributor when i purchased FZ190N 8 months ago.
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I have seen some posts by ppl about partitioning of newly purchased FZ hard drive. All those can try the method mentioned in my signature which I adopted and worked fine.

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Finally, I have a question; Is the AV Mode button problem now resolved by SONY ?

because in earlier shipped FZ models with dedicated graphic card, the AV mode button simply boot the Windows instead of playing discs & media.

Is this problem resolved now , please mention relevant update/ driver ?

 

Hi everyone, hope someone can help me with this:

I have a FZ38M where I installed Vista 64 to get all the 4gb of ram functioning. Always is smooth except the following things:

1) Memory card reader: altough I installed succesfully Texas Instruments driver, and the device is recognized, I dont get the actual memory card reader on "my pc" with the others discs. I can't use it.

2) I installed the latest NVIDIA forceware, sony event service and sony library but I can't use FN keys to change brightness

Any help? Thanks

 

On a VAIO VGN-FZ445D, purchased last month, it works. When the laptop is off, pressing the AV Mode button enables playing of music CDs, photos, etc. without booting Windows.

 

i was ripping my hair off trying to install the webcam driver for this thing after a clean install and some stupid technician delete the recover partition.

i was installing the driver for this one for a friend. I have to say that the software of SONy does work however it does not let the file installed in the system.

SO here is the step.

Get the webcam driver for FZ . instal it.

When it comes to windows find new hardware wizard, and u choose next for it to search the drivers u'll see the files paper icon starts to running. BY that time, run Sony VIdeo capture utilities. Check if it works. If it DOES WORK , quickly hit cancel on the drivers searching windows and HOLD youw power button to POWER DOWN ALL THE WAY.

REstart and voila . the webcam driver finally installed in there.

HOpe this help.

 

Hi, I need some help. And I'm an absolute newbie to the laptop and to this site

I have Sony FZ 140 E and today I tried to use the SD memory card reader. Nothing happened. Will the laptop recognize the card and the photos on it automatically?

Also, I accidentally renamed the (E: ) removable storage device - does someone know what it is for? Is it possible that it is for the SD card reader and that's why the laptop doesn't recognize the card?

*** Sorry if these questions sound silly

I hope someone knows the answers.
Thanks for all your help!

 

When you open "Computer" in the start menu, what do you see? On my FZ, G: is for the memory stick and then another icon that says "SD/MMC" which is H:. When you insert a SD card in the slot it will not necessarily pop open automatically - you go to that icon H: and open it from there. Or in your case you might insert a card and go to E: and double-click it to open it.

 

Hi everyone,
I have a VGN-FZ290N5, I removed vista 6months ago & installed XP,now i want to install vista again,could you tell me what should i do? Using 2DVD backup or F10...

one more thing, i don`t want to delete my partitions...

 

I am not absolutely certain, but I believe if you use either the F10 or the 2DVD backup set to restore it will restore the ENTIRE drive, thus wiping out your partitions. If I were you I would do one of the following:

1. Backup your partitons to DVD using Acronis, Ghost or just copying thier contents. Then restore using F10 or the 2dvd set. Then resize the main partition and create partitions for the data you copied to DVD.

2. Do a clean install, which gives you full control over the partitions and will leave the ones you want in place.

Gary

 

bubbatex, thanks so much for the suggestion! I guess the (E: ) I renamed is the SD/MMC after all .

When I double clicked it, though, I got the following message: "E:/ is not accessible. The request could not be performed because of an I/O device error"

This reads like Martian to me - and just as scary. Is there something I can do to make it work and read my SD card?

 

Hello everyone,

i just purchased sony fz348E. i installed xp on it but certain hardware like audio, mass storage geforce 8400M and others do not work. i called sony support but all they said was that there are no drivers for windows xp for my computer. i tried to find the drivers on the net but failed. i found a seemingly proper driver for the geforce 8400M but during the installation there was a message that there are no compatible drivers installed.

can anybody help me find drivers for my computer? PLEASE!!!!

if it is impossible how can I go back to vista? I have erased the whole partition where it was initially installed and sony did not provide me with any installation disc

 

Does anyone know the part number for the internal bluetooth card for VGN-FZ348E/B ? Or if it is even possible to add an internal one?

 

I recently purchased the FZ348E/B. I was planning on replacing Vista with XP Pro to be able to run certain software. It seems like the install is quite complicated since Sony doesn't yet provide the proper drivers.

I noticed that some people in the same boat have utilized Virtual PC to run XP within Vista. It seems like a good way to retain all of the features of Vista and my hardware while also utilizing XP where needed. I also realized, however, that Virtual PC 2007 won't run on Vista Home Premium. Other than upgrading to Business or Ultimate, is there a way to utilize Virtual PC?

Thanks.

 

Are you sure that you need to install XP in order to run that sofware? Have you tried installing it and running it in Compatibility mode?

I am able to run some old software using Vista's Compatibility mode.

 

I'm pretty sure that the most basic version of VMware is free and also can be better than VirtualPC for certain tasks... but I'm only regurgitating what I've read elsewhere - you'll need to do your own Googling I'm afraid.

 

Just because Microsoft says that VPC2007 on home editions of Vista is not supported does not mean it won't run on them. See this thread:

http://www.eggheadcafe.com/software/aspnet/29801648/vista-home-premium-editio.aspx

or this:

http://channel9.msdn.com/forums/Coffeehouse/252439-Virtual-PC-2007-too-good-for-Home-Premium/


Just be aware that if the applications you want to run on Virtual PC are very graphics intensive, like PhotoShop or some CAD app, the results will be, shall we say, less than optimal.

Gary

 

Very good to hear about Virtual PC. I didn't read the Microsoft page very carefully I suppose. I'll try using it tonight. Thanks.

And as for trying the software out, I will give it a shot, but I've got a co-worker who was in the same situation and he couldn't get it to work on his home PC with Vista, so I'm playing it safe by setting up an alternative. Thanks for the recommendation though.

 

Has anyone got dismantling instructions for the FZ11Z? I need to access the fans to give them a once over

 

There is a thread here on disassembly of an FZ machine. I am pretty sure all of the various FZ models are the same in that regard.


Yep a quick use of the search box turned up this: http://forum.notebookreview.com/showthread.php?t=209268

Gary

 

You're welcome.

Gary

 

Kudos to this thread for a superb Machine, I have just bought FZ 290 EBB and am in love with it. Can anyone please help with following questions.

Its hard disc is not portioned, all 160GB is lying in C drive. Should I keep it lying there? What difference it would make if I don’t make partitions?

I haven’t taken any backup yet. Is I remove the bloat ware, would I miss out on any special features? Can I backup these softwares on DVD? And should I?

The quality of camera 1.3 mp during msn video chat was found to be poor, eventhough light was ok in the room? Why is it so? Can I improve the quality of image, I was hoping for a good quality:

What are the benefits and usages of AV mode?

I heard stock antivirus Norton is junk. Is it true?

People please reply I am a novice user and need detailed replies.

 

Great thread! I've been reading it since the beginning.

I have a question regarding temps. The CPU temps of my notebook (FZ11E) get really high when f.i. converting wav's to mp3, using DbPowerAmp. Normally idle temps are around 45-50C. But after converting for a couple of minutes, using both cpu's at 100%, the temps soar to 90C! This can't be normal, nor can it be good for the (lifetime of the) cpu's. I've had these high temps ever since I got the notebook, so I don't think it's dust accumulation inside the machine. I use Speedfan to monitor temps.

Any thoughts? Thanks in advance.

 

What sort of surface is the machine sitting on when this occurs? Remember there are vents on the BOTTOM of the machine which pretty much necessitates it sitting on a hard surface, not on a bed or even your bare lap unless you are careful to NOT block those vents.

Gary

 

All of these questions have been previously answered and you can easily get those detailed answers by using the search box at the top of every page on this forum.

Gary

 

I just bought the vgn-fz190 with the blue ray drive and it is full of crapware. Is there a link or can someone point me in the right direction as to how to delete this stuff off my laptop. This is so frustrating!!! Thank you!!

 

You have three choices:

1. Uninstall the various crapware. Pro's: easiest Con's: figuring out what is and isn't crap ware, actually getting rid of all traces of some of the crap ware (specifically Norton antivirus).

2. Semi-clean install. Pro's: you have everything you need right now to do it Con's: timing, timing, timing. You have to understand EXACTLY when to interrupt the process.

3. Clean install. Pro's: You have complete control over what gets installed. Con's: you need a copy of the Vista install media. (You can borrow one from a friend and use the license key printed on your FZ190.)

There are threads here describing all three of these options. Use the search box at the top of the page to find the threads. A link to the clean install process is in my signature line below.

Before you do ANYTHING, make sure you create the two DVD system recovery set as instructed by Sony on the packing material that came with the FZ190.

Gary

 

Laptop is sitting on hard wooden surface. I just tried holding the laptop in the air, while being careful not to block any vents...temps still reach 86C.

 

That seems odd that temps get that high. By the way any hard surface is fine. Lifitng it would not improve things in any way.


When encoding using the same app as you, my temps hit maybe 70-73C.

Gary

 

Hello, I have a FZ460. I haven't been able to get the HDMI output to work. Has any one had this problems or have any suggestions?

 

Hello, I have a FZ460. I haven't been able to get the HDMI output to work. Has any one had this problems or have any suggestions?

 

Try the search box at the top of the page. There are a few threads here about this.

Gary

 

Thanks Gary, I will do that.

 

Yea right lazy me....but i tried.......anyways got the answer from search on how to backup. But still very quickly and be kind to tell me
1. Why video quality so poor?can it be improved?
2. Is partition of C drive necessary, if yea how to do it?
Thanks

P.S My model£ FZ 290Ebb got it @999$+tax

 

1. Define "poor", what is the issue? Poor doesn't give us a clue as to what problem you have. Be more specific.
2. Is it NECESSARY, no. Is it a good idea, I think so. It allows ME to keep my data on a separate partition and my OS and programs on the C: drive. I can then image the C: drive and stash the image away. Latter if I have some wierd issue I can restore that image and not affect ANY of my data. As for how to do it, I won't do the search for you. Try it yourself. Type "Partition FZ" without the quotes in the "Search the Forums" box. It is right above the line that shows "Page x of y". I just did and immediately found info on how and why you might want to partition a hard drive.

Gary

 

Has anyone here tried installing 64bit Vista on a FZ? Whats the driver situation like (non-Blu ray)? Do the hotkeys work?

I upgraded to 4GB knowing I would only get 3GB, or in my case 3069MB (2.997GB) available. It definitely feels like it runs faster than with 2GB of RAM and I also run VMs (VirtualBox) a lot, so its been helpful with running 2x 512MB VM. The 1GB isn't a real loss to me, but 64bit is the future, so I'm considering it. I may just end up imaging the system and then trying a 64bit install and see how it goes.

Edit:
Just curious, anyone here try and upgrade the CPU on their FZ?

 

By poor I mean when I start vaio video application the quality it gives is just alright…...but while using msn messenger when I start using video chat option…..the folks at receiving end say that the quality of my image is not all that great…even I find hard to see myself in good condition….a little dark maybe….i tried turning more lights on and all….pls tell what is the overall perception of this motion eye camera among experts…..can it be improved during msn chat etc…..and would you recommend buying an external some mega pixel camera?
Thanks Gary.

 

In my experience, the motion eye is a really poor webcam. I would say an external solution is a must. Heres an example picture from my motion eye:

 

I cant see the box u r mentioning.....I tried to search from drop down option at the right bottom side of the page and following msg appears: You do not have sufficent previliges to use this option or admin may have disbaled.......and the search box at the top right corner doesnt yield relevant results...pls for many like me once explain how to search forums: sorry for the trouble

 

OH! You meant the camera. Good thing I suggested you be more specific. I though (and I bet a few others thought too) that you meant the display! The built in camera is not that great, sadly. If you want dazling video camera you are going to have to go with an external one I am afraid.

Gary

P.S. did you find the answers to the partition questions?

 

Alright camera issue resolved as another fellow here confimed and so did you that its not great...i wonder why they put this crapy cam in it....anyways.....

NO i did not find answer to partition issue....search string at the top right corner doesnt give relevant results....I would like to do partition but only when i am sure how to...dont wana mess with my baby thanks for your help

 

Try the one at the very top of the page. Type in: Partition FZ "how to", leave the quotes around "how to". The third entry in the results will take you to a page that contains a message withthe info you want.

I have NO IDEA what search box you are talking about when you said: " tried to search from drop down option at the right bottom side of the page". I don't see the search drop down you are talking about.

Gary

 

Hi All,
Can anybody please help me?
I own a Sony FZ11Z and it looks like the motherboard is Faulty. I left the laptop on overnight on Friday (downloading a movie) and when i got up on Saturday it was totally dead. Wont fire up with either the battery or the mains. Got a call from the shop today and they said that it looks like the motherboard is broken and it would be cheaper to buy a new laptop.
I have only had the laptop since January but it was bought on eBay (half the retail price) and hence, No warranty.
My home insurance will cover it and i am not worried about the laptop itself but it had some pictures of my son on it which are irreplaceable as he died last September. My question is - Can i transfer the hard drive to any other Vaio or would i have to buy the same model?
Any suggestions please?

 

I would just put the harddrive in an external case like one of the little USB enclosures. Then as soon as it's accessible, make a backup - i.e. IMMEDIATELY, DO NOT PASS GO, DO NOT COLLECT £200! Just a gentle hint.

 

Pull the drive out like the person said above and use one of these things to connect to via USB to another computer and transfer your files off:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16812232002
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817182140

If you get the second one, you can permanently use that as a portable hard drive.

 

Yes you can have the harddrive info transferred. Buy an external closure and take it out and put it in there with a USB cable it should be a snap.

Sorry to hear about your son, I myself am experiencing a lot of death in my family and my girlfriend's family and it is overwhelming to the point that I wasn't even excited that much to get my new VAIO SR. I was excitedly anticipating its shipment but as a sudden tragic death occurred, and it basically put out all the flames of joy i had for much of things i am typically excited for. in fact im also going on vacation soon and im not even slightly looking forward to it anymore

 

Thanks for the advice everyone.
When i get it back from the shop i will give that a go.