Help wanted (VGN AR47G)

Hi, after I got my laptop back from being repaired (they were particularly vague about what went wrong, I think it was something to do with the motherboard), I noticed a few things not working, or not working properly.

They are:
*Firewire(iLink) input - doesn't work at all
*Illuminated Sony logo - won't respond to control center options, is illuminated during boot and some other scenarios but goes away during general use. Obviously not the biggest issue but thought I'd point it out anyway.
*IR port for the media center remote - no longer works; this is my biggest issue since it's a media center laptop with big (for a laptop) screen, tv tuner, etc..

I've had a general look on the internet but found it difficult to find anything that directly addresses any of these issues with the search criteria I thought to look for.

I tried loading the BIOS, but found that it was all but bare when it came to system configuration.

If anyone can help me restore full function to my laptop, that'd be really appreciated. I don't want to be without it for 1-2 months for repairs again, especially since it's mostly usable.

Thanks.

 

bump? anyone have an idea of a better place to ask the question?