

Notice to Users
© 1998 Sony Electronics Inc. All rights
reserved. This manual and the software
described herein, in whole or in part, may not
be reproduced, translated, or reduced to any
machine-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 IMPLIED 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,
CONTRACT, OR OTHERWISE, ARISING
OUT OF OR IN CONNECTION WITH THIS
MANUAL, THE SOFTWARE, OR OTHER
INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN OR
THE USE THEREOF.
Sony Electronics Inc. reserves the right to
make any modification to this manual or the
information contained herein at any time
without notice. The software described
herein may also be governed by the terms of
a separate user license agreement.
S ony VA IO, a n d th e VA I O lo g o a re
trademarks of Sony. Microsoft, Windows,
and the Windows 98 logo are registered
trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. Intel,
Pentium, and Celeron are trademarks of Intel
Corporation. K56flex is a trademark of
Lucent Technologies Inc. and Rockwell
International. All other trademarks are
trademarks of their respective owners.
Safety Information
Owner’s Record
The model number and serial number are
located on the back of your VAIO computer.
Record the serial number in the space
provided here. Refer to the model and serial
number when you call your Sony Service
Center.
Model Number: PCV-E201/PCV-E203/
PCV-E205
Serial Number:________________________
❑ To prevent fire or shock hazard, do
not expose your VAIO computer to
rain or moisture.
❑ Never install modem or telephone
wiring during a lightning storm.
❑ Never install telephone jacks in wet
locations unless the jack is specifically
designed for wet locations
❑ Never touch uninsulated telephone
wire or terminals unless the telephone
line has been disconnected at the
network interface.
❑ Use caution when installing or
modifying telephone lines.
❑ Avoid using the modem during an
electrical storm.
❑ Do not use the modem or a telephone
to report a gas leak in the vicinity of
the leak.
!
The use of optical instruments
with this product will increase eye
hazard.
WAR NIN G

Regulatory Information
This equipment has been tested and found
to comply with the limits for a Class B
digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the
Rules. These limits are designed to
provide reasonable protection against
harmful interference in a residential
installation. This equipment generates,
uses, and can radiate radio frequency
energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instructions, may
cause harmful interference to radio
communications. However, there is no
guarantee that interference will not occur
in a particular installation. If this
equipment does cause harmful
interference to radio or television
reception, which can be determined by
turning the equipment off and on, the user
is encouraged to try to correct the
interference by one or more of the
following measures:
❑ Reorient or relocate the receiving
antenna.
❑ Increase the separation between the
equipment and the receiver.
❑ Connect the equipment into an
outlet on a circuit different from
that to which the receiver is
connected.
❑ Consult the dealer or an
experienced radio/TV technician
for help.
You are cautioned that any changes or
modifications not expressly approved in
this manual could void your authority to
operate this equipment.
Only peripherals (computer input/output
devices, terminals, printers, etc.) that
comply with FCC Class B limits may be
attached to this computer product.
Operation with non-compliant peripherals
is likely to result in interference to radio
and television reception.
All cables used to connect peripherals
must be shielded and grounded.
Operation with cables, connected to
peripherals, that are not shielded and
grounded, may result in interference to
radio and television reception.
Declaration of Conformity
Trade Name: SONY
Model No.: PCV-E201/PCV-E203/
PCV-E205
Responsible Party:
Sony Electronics Inc.
Address:
1 Sony Drive
Park Ridge, NJ 07656
Telephone No: 201-930-6970
This device complies with Part 15 of
FCC Rules. Operation is subject to
the two following conditions: (1)
This device may not cause harmful
interference, and (2) this device
must accept any interference
received, including interference that
may cause undesired operation.

FCC Part 68
This equipment complies with Part 68 of the
FCC rules. The ringer equivalence number
(REN) and the FCC registration number are
printed on the modem board. If requested,
this information must be supplied to the
telephone company.
The REN is used to determine the quantity of
devices which may be connected to the
phone line. Excessive REN's on the telephone
line may result in the devices not ringing in
response to an incoming call. In most, but not
all areas, the sum of the REN's should not
exceed five (5.0). To be certain of the number
of devices that may be connected to the line,
as determined by the total REN's, contact the
telephone company to determine the
maximum REN for the calling area.
This modem uses the USOC RJ-11 telephone
jack.
If this equipment causes harm to the
telephone network, the telephone company
will, when practical, notify you in advance
that temporary discontinuance of service
may be required. If advance notice isn't
practical, the telephone company will notify
you as soon as possible. Also, you will be
advised of your right to file a complaint with
the FCC if you believe it is necessary.
The telephone company may make changes
in its facilities, equipment, operations or
procedures that could affect the operations of
the equipment. If this happens, the telephone
company will notify you in advance, in order
for you to make the necessary modifications
in order to maintain uninterrupted service.
If trouble is experienced with this modem,
for repair or warranty information, please
contact 1-888-4SONY-PC, or write to the
Sony Customer Information Center, One
Sony Drive, Park Ridge, NJ 07656.
This equipment cannot be used on
telephone-company-provided coin service.
Connection to Party Line Service is subject to
state tariffs.
Repair of the modem should be made only
by a Sony Service Center or Sony authorized
agent. For the Sony Service Center nearest
you, call 1-800-222-SONY (1-800-222-7669).
Telephone Consumer
Protection Act of 1991
The Telephone Consumer Protection Act of
1991 makes it unlawful for any person to use
a computer or other electronic device to send
any message via a telephone facsimile
machine unless such message clearly
contains, in a margin at the top or bottom of
each transmitted page or on the first page of
the transmission, the date and time it is sent
and an identification of the business, other
entity, or individual sending the message,
and the telephone number of the sending
machine or such business, other entity, or
individual.
In order to program this information into
your facsimile, see your fax software
documentation.
✍
You are cautioned that any changes or
modifications not expressly approved in
this manual could void your authority to
operate this equipment.

v
Contents
Notice to Users .................................................................................... ii
Safety Information .............................................................................. ii
Regulatory Information..................................................................... iii
FCC Part 68 ......................................................................................... iv
Telephone Consumer Protection Act of 1991................................. iv
Chapter 1 — Identifying Components
Front View ....................................................................................... 2
Drives ...................................................................................................3
Buttons and Switches .........................................................................4
Indicators ..............................................................................................5
Rear View ......................................................................................... 6
Icons .....................................................................................................7
I/O Connectors ....................................................................................9
Expansion Slots ..................................................................................14
Chapter 2 — Configuring Your System
Accessing the BIOS Setup Utility ................................................ 16
Changing the Display's Power-management Settings ............. 17
Configuring the System Board .................................................... 18
Chapter 3 — Removing, Installing and Reinstalling
Components
Removing the Side Panel .............................................................. 22
Removing the Bottom Panel......................................................... 23
Removing the Front Panel ............................................................ 24
Reinstalling the Front Panel ......................................................... 25
Reinstalling the Bottom Panel...................................................... 26

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
vi
Reinstalling the Side Panel............................................................27
Installing an Add-In Card .............................................................28
Removing an Add-in Card............................................................29
Replacing the Lithium Battery .....................................................31
Installing System Memory ...........................................................34
Removing a Memory Module .....................................................37
Detaching the Diskette Drive .......................................................39
Removing a Slot Cover ..................................................................40
Covering an Open I/O Slot ..........................................................41
Chapter 4 — System Board
Connectors.......................................................................................44
Front Panel Header............................................................................44
Diskette Drive Connector ................................................................45
Memory Module (DIMM) Connectors ...........................................46
Slot Connectors...................................................................................47
IDE Connectors .................................................................................49
Power Connector ...............................................................................50
Keyboard and Mouse Connectors ..................................................51
USB Connectors .................................................................................52
Serial, Printer and Monitor Connectors .........................................53
Fan Connectors ..................................................................................56
Game Connector.................................................................................57
Headphones, Line In, Mic Connectors............................................58
Ring Connector...................................................................................59
Modem In Connector ........................................................................60
CD In Connector ................................................................................61
TV Out Connector..............................................................................62
Configuration Jumpers .................................................................63
CPU Speed ..........................................................................................63
Clear Password and BIOS Recovery ...............................................64
Chapter 5 — TV-Out Paddle Card
Connectors .....................................................................................66
Chapter 6 — Fax/Modem Card
Connectors ......................................................................................68

vii
Chapter 7 — BIOS Setup Options
Main Screen ................................................................................... 71
Advanced Screen .......................................................................... 76
Security Screen ............................................................................... 79
Power Screen .................................................................................. 80
Boot Screen ..................................................................................... 82
Exit Screen....................................................................................... 83
Chapter 8 — Miscellaneous Technical Information
About User and Supervisor Passwords ..................................... 86
Beep Code Error Messages .......................................................... 87
PCI Configuration Status And Error Messages ........................ 88
DMA Channel Assignments ....................................................... 90
IRQ Assignments ......................................................................... 91
System I/O Address Map ........................................................... 92
Memory Map ................................................................................. 94
Chapter 9 — Specifications
Processor ....................................................................................... 95
Memory Modules (DIMMs) ....................................................... 95
DIMM Configurations .................................................................. 96
L2 Cache ......................................................................................... 96
Graphics ........................................................................................ 96
Video ............................................................................................... 97
Audio .............................................................................................. 97
Communications .......................................................................... 97
I/O and Expansion Slots .............................................................. 97
Drives and Controllers ................................................................ 98
BIOS ............................................................................................... 98
Power Supply ................................................................................ 99
CPU Environment ........................................................................ 99

viii

1
Chapter 1
Identifying Components
The following sections identify and describe each component that is
visible from the exterior of the VAIO MicroTower. Internal components
are identified in the appropriate section of this manual.

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
2
Front View
Front panel
OM04694X.VSD

Identifying Components
3
Drives
Drive Description
Diskette drive 3.5-inch, 1.44 Mbyte.
CD-ROM drive (PCV-E201) 24X (maximum performance).
*
* Data on a CD-ROM disc is read at a variable transfer rate, ranging from 10X at the innermost track to 24X
at the outermost track (the data transfer standard 1X rate is 150 kbytes/s). The average data transfer rate
is 17X (2550 kbytes/s).
DVD-ROM drive
(PCV-E203/PCV-E205)
5X (maximum performance).
†
† DVD-ROM drive also plays CD-ROM discs. Data on the DVD-ROM is read at a variable transfer rate, ranging
from 2X at the innermost track to 5X at the outermost track (the data transfer standard 1X rate is 1385
kbytes/s). The average data transfer rate is 3.4X (4709 kbytes/s). Data on a CD-ROM disc is read at a variable
transfer rate, ranging from 10X at the innermost track to 24X at the outermost track (the data transfer
standard 1X rate is 150 kybtes/s). The average data transfer rate is 17X (2250 kbytes/s).
FNRTPNLA.VSD
Diskette drive
CD-ROM drive (PCV-E201)
DVD-ROM drive (PCV-E203/PCV-E205)

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
4
Buttons and Switches
Button or switch Description
Power on/off switch Turns system power on and off.
Diskette eject button Ejects a diskette.
CD-ROM/DVD-ROM
disc eject button
Automatically opens and closes the CD-ROM or
DVD-ROM tray.
Emergency-eject hole Ejects a CD-ROM disc or DVD-ROM disc.
Diskette eject button
CD-ROM drive disc eject button (PCV-E201)
DVD-ROM drive disc eject button (PCV-E203/PCV-E205)
Power on/off switch
FNRTPNLB.VSD
Emergency-eject hole

Identifying Components
5
Indicators
Indicator Description
Power-on indicator On (amber) indicates the computer is in
standby mode. On (green) indicates the
computer is out of standby mode, ready to
use. Off (no color) indicates the computer
is turned off.
Diskette drive access indicator On (green) indicates diskette drive
activity.
CD-ROM/DVD-ROM drive
access indicator
On (orange) indicates CD-ROM or DVD-
ROM disc activity.
Hard disk drive access indicator On (orange) indicates hard disk drive
activity.
Power-on indicator
Diskette drive access indicator
Drive access indicator for:
CD-ROM drive (PCV-E201)
DVD-ROM drive (PCV-E203/PCV-E205)
Hard disk drive access indicator
FRNTPNLD.VSD

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
6
Rear View
Mouse
Keyboard
USB
Serial
Printer
Power socket
Monitor
Game
Headphones
Telephone
S Video Out
(models PCV-E203/PCV-E205 only)
Video Out
(models PCV-E203/PCV-E205 only)
Line
KY0001.VSD
Line In
Mic

Identifying Components
7
Icons
Icon Description
Mouse connector
Keyboard connector
Universal Serial Bus (USB) connectors
Serial port connector
Printer port connector
Game/MIDI port connector
Headphones
Line In jack (audio)
Microphone jack
S Video Out jack
(models PCV-E203/PCV-E205 only)
Video Out jack
(models PCV-E203/PCV-E205 only)
OM04692X.VSD
Icon labels

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
8
Monitor connector
Line (for telephone line from primary service jack)
Telephone (for phone)
Icon Description

Identifying Components
9
I/O Connectors
The following section identifies the various I/O connectors.
Keyboard and Mouse
The keyboard and mouse connectors are physically identical and have the
same pinout. They are standard 6-pin PS/2-type female connectors.
USB Ports
Serial Port
The serial port is a standard 9-pin DB-9 male connector.
1
6
2
3
4
5
KY0002.VSD
Port 1 Port 2
KY0003.VSD
5
1
9
6
KY0057.VSD

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
10
Printer Port
The printer port is a standard 25-pin DB-25 female connector.
S Video Out (PCV-E203/PCV-E205)
The S Video Out connector is a standard 4-pin S Video jack.
13
1
25
14
KY0005.VSD
1
2
3
4
KY0006.VSD

Identifying Components
11
Video Out (PCV-E203/PCV-E205)
The Video Out jack is for composite video. It is a standard RCA phono
jack.
WARNING
Monitor
The Monitor connector is a standard 15-pin female high-density VGA-
type connector.
!
Do not plug video cables into the wrong connectors, as this may damage the
video card in the computer and the equipment to which it is connected.
Case ground
Signal (center)
Yellow band
KY0007.VSD
5
1
15
11
10
6
KY0004.VSD

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
12
Game Port
The Game port is a standard 15-pin DB-15 female connector. This port is
also used to connect MIDI devices.
Mic, Line In, and Headphones
The Mic, Line In, and Headphones jacks are physically identical, but have
different connections. They are standard 3.5 mm stereo mini-jacks.
Connector Description
Headphones 1.0 Vrms (typical)
Mic Electrolet condenser microphone input
Line In 1.0 Vrms (typical), 10 Kohm impedance
8
1
15
9
KY0012.VSD
Headphones Line In Mic
KY0013.VS
D

Identifying Components
13
Telephone and Line
The Telephone and Line jacks are physically identical and have identical
connections. They are standard RJ-11 female phone jacks. However, the
Line jack is for connecting to a telephone line that comes from the wall,
and the Telephone jack is for connecting the computer to a telephone.
✍
Accidentally plugging a phone line from the wall into the modem’s Telephone jack, and a
telephone into the Line jack, will not damage the modem card or telephone equipment.
However, the modem may not work correctly.
Line Telephone
KY0014.VSD

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
14
Expansion Slots
Two dedicated PCI slots are available for expansion. The ISA slot is
occupied by the fax/modem card.
OM04577B.VSD
PCI
ISA
PCI

15
Chapter 2
Configuring Your System
This chapter contains information on configuring your system.
Configuring your system can consist of the following:
❑
Making changes to the BIOS settings
❑
Making changes to the display's power management settings
❑
Changing the system board jumper position

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
16
Accessing the BIOS Setup Utility
You must access the BIOS Setup Utility to make changes to the BIOS
settings (see “BIOS Setup Options” on page 69 for information on BIOS
settings).
WARNING
1
Reboot the system. The following message appears during the inital
boot sequence:
Press <F3> for Boot screen
2
Press F3. The following message appears.
Press <F2> for setup.
3
Press F2.
Each menu presents options for modifying the system configuration.
Use the left and right arrow keys to select a menu from the menu bar.
Use the up and down arrow keys to select items within a menu. Once
an item is highlighted, use the plus/minus (+/-) keys to modify a
setting.
If an item has a triangle ( ) to its left, this indicates that a sub-menu of
options is available. Press ENTER to access a sub-menu. If a sub-
menu contains items with a triangle, there is another layer of options
from which to select.
4
Once you select an option, press ESC to back out of each menu until
you reach the top level, where the menu bar appears.
5
To exit the BIOS setup utility, press ESC from any top-level screen and
follow the prompts.
Before rebooting the system, save any open files and exit Windows
®
.

Configuring Your System
17
Changing the Display's Power-management
Settings
A display that has power management capability is designed to operate
on reduced power or shut itself off after the system has been idle for a
specified period of time.
1
From the
Start
menu, point to Settings, then click Control Panel.
2
Double-click the Display icon.
3
Click the Screen Saver tab.
If your display is Energy-Star compliant or has other energy-saving
features, the Energy saving features of the monitor dialog box appear.
Otherwise, the options in the dialog box are grayed out.
4
Select Low-power standby or Shut off monitor.
Selecting Low-power standby blanks the screen (similar to a screen
saver) and automatically reduces power to the display after a
specified amount of time. The display reactivates when you move the
mouse or press a key (as long as the keyboard or mouse are not USB
devices).
Selecting Shut off monitor automatically turns off the display if the
system has been idle for a specified amount of time. Power is
reactivated when you move the mouse or press a key (as long as the
keyboard or mouse are not USB devices).
5
Select the number of minutes to wait between the last keyboard or
mouse activity and activation of the power-management settings.
OM05228.VSD

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
18
Configuring the System Board
The system board contains two configuration jumpers that provide three
modes of operation: Normal mode, Clear Password mode, and BIOS
Recovery mode.
Normal mode allows normal access to the BIOS Setup Utility. The Central
Processing Unit (CPU) input clock is forced to remain at 66 MHz (fast
mode), and the Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) uses the User CMOS
settings (as opposed to the System CMOS settings). The CMOS and
NVRAM settings are only cleared if the checksum test returns false.
Access to specific setup fields is controlled by a supervisor password or
user password.
Clear Password mode removes the password that is stored in CMOS.
BIOS Recovery mode sets the CPU input clock to 66 MHz (fast mode) and
attempts to perform a blind BIOS update. If the recovery fails, beep codes
alert you to the failure and the system waits for the insertion of a boot
diskette in the A drive. No video is enabled at this point.
WARNING
1
Remove the side panel (see “Removing the Side Panel” on page 22).
2
Remove the bottom panel (see “Removing the Bottom Panel” on
page 23).
✍
The configuration jumpers should never need changing unless otherwise directed by a
technical support or service technician.
Before opening the system, save any open files, exit Windows, turn off the power
of the computer and all attached peripherals, and unplug the power cord.

20

21
Chapter 3
Removing, Installing and Rein-
stalling Components
This chapter describes removing, installing, and reinstalling major
components for upgrading, reconfiguring, replacing, or troubleshooting
the components.
WARNING
Before opening the system, save any open files, exit Windows, turn off the power
of the computer and all attached peripherals, and unplug the power cord.

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
22
Removing the Side Panel
You must remove the side panel to access the system board, add-in cards,
power supply, battery, and internal drives.
1
From the rear of the unit, remove the two thumb screws that secure
the panel to the chassis.
2
Slide the side panel back with your right hand as you hold the chassis
in position with your left hand. The panel slides back about ½ inch.
3
Pull the panel straight out to remove it.
KY0064.VSD

Removing, Installing and Reinstalling Components
23
Removing the Bottom Panel
You must remove the bottom panel to access internal components.
1
Remove the side panel (see “Removing the Side Panel” on page 22).
2
Remove the screw that secures the bottom panel to the chassis.
3
Pull up on the bottom panel until it stops. The panel moves up about
½ inch.
4
Pull the panel straight out to remove it.
KY0065.VSD

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
24
Removing the Front Panel
You must remove the front panel to install system memory, which
requires pulling the diskette drive out about two inches.
1
Insert a straightened paper clip into the emergency-eject hole on the
CD-ROM drive (PCV-E201) or CD/DVD-ROM drive (PCV-E203/
PCV-E205) to open the tray.
2
Pull the tray out to its normal opened position.
3
Lift up on the front tray cover to remove it.
4
Remove the bottom panel (see “Removing the Bottom Panel” on
page 23) to access the two plastic tabs on the bottom of the front
panel.
5
Push down and out on the two plastic tabs from inside the bottom of
the chassis to release the bottom end of the front panel.
6
Pull out the top end of the front panel to remove it.
KY0055.VSD
Tab
Front panel
Front tray cover
Push tabs out from
inside chassis

Removing, Installing and Reinstalling Components
25
Reinstalling the Front Panel
1
Insert the two plastic tabs (located on the bottom of the front panel)
into the slots at the bottom of the chassis.
2
Push the bottom of the front panel in until the tabs snap into place.
3
Push the top of the front panel until it is flush with the chassis.
4
Carefully slide the tray cover down onto the CD/DVD-ROM tray,
then slide the tray in.
KY0077.VSD
Tab
Front panel
Front tray cover
Insert tab here

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
26
Reinstalling the Bottom Panel
1
Lay the chassis down with the open side facing up and the bottom
end facing you. The arrows show the location of the slots.
2
Position the bottom panel up against the bottom of the chassis, with
the top of the panel about ½ inch higher than the chassis.
3
Slide the bottom panel down until the panel’s tabs slide into the
chassis’s slots. Push down firmly until the screw hole in the chassis
aligns with the screw hole in the panel.
4
Replace the screw (removed earlier) to secure the bottom of the panel
to the chassis.
KY0078.VSD
KY0079.VSD
Screw goes here

Removing, Installing and Reinstalling Components
27
Reinstalling the Side Panel
1
Position the side panel against the side of the unit, with the side panel
offset from the rear of the unit by about ¼ to ½ inch.
2
Hold the unit in position with your left hand as you slide the side
panel forward with your right hand until the panel snaps into place.
3
Insert the two thumbscrews (removed earlier) to secure the panel.
KY0067.VSD

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
28
Installing an Add-In Card
WARNING
1
Remove the slot cover adjacent to the selected slot connector on the
system board (see “Removing a Slot Cover” on page 40).
2
Insert the add-in card into the PCI slot connector. Use a gentle rocking
motion, pressing down until the card is fully seated.
3
Attach any necessary cables to the card (see the instructions that came
with the add-in card).
4
Reinstall the bottom panel (see “Reinstalling the Bottom Panel” on
page 26).
5
Reinstall the side panel (see “Reinstalling the Side Panel” on page 27).
6
Turn on the computer and follow any instructions that came with the
add-in card.
Before opening the system, save any open files, exit Windows, turn off the power
of the computer and all attached peripherals, and unplug the power cord.
✍
Align the card's bracket so that the bottom of the bracket fits into the slot at the
bottom of the chassis. Assure that the top of the bracket fits snugly against the
chassis lip after the card is fully inserted.
KY0070.VSD

Removing, Installing and Reinstalling Components
29
Removing an Add-in Card
WARNING
1
Remove the side panel (see “Removing the Side Panel” on page 22).
2
Remove the bottom panel (see “Removing the Bottom Panel” on
page 23).
3
Disconnect any cables attached to the add-in card.
4
Remove the screw that secures the add-in card to the chassis.
5
Remove the add-in card from the PCI slot connector and store the
card in an anti-static wrapper for future use.
Before opening the system, save any open files, exit Windows, turn off the power
of the computer and all attached peripherals, and unplug the power cord.
✍
Grasp the card with one hand on each end, and gently pull up as you rock the card
from side to side.
!
Hold the add-in card by its edges and do not touch any components or
connector contacts on the card. Static electricity in your body may
damage sensitive components on the card. As a precaution, touch any
exposed metal part on the metal chassis (preferably the metal part on
the power supply) before handling an add-in card to discharge any static
electricity in your body.
KY0071.VSD

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
30
6
If you do not reinstall the card or install another add-in card, install a
slot cover over the vacant slot at the rear of the chassis (see “Covering
an Open I/O Slot” on page 41).
7
Reinstall the bottom panel (see “Reinstalling the Bottom Panel” on
page 26).
8
Reinstall the side panel (see “Reinstalling the Side Panel” on page 27).

Removing, Installing and Reinstalling Components
31
Replacing the Lithium Battery
You may need to replace the lithium battery if your computer consistently
loses the date or time settings after turning it off. The lithium battery has
a typical life of three years, after which the battery may be too weak to
power the CMOS memory.
1
Reboot your computer by selecting Shut Down... from the Start
menu, and then selecting Restart the computer.
2
If the error message “Error: Check date and time settings”appears
during the reboot sequence, press F3, then press F2 during the reboot
process to access the BIOS Setup Utility. Otherwise it is not necessary
to replace the battery at this time, and you can skip all remaining
steps.
3
Compare all the BIOS options to their default settings (see “BIOS
Setup Options” on page 69). Make a list of all the BIOS options that
are different from their default values. You will refer to this list when
you restore the BIOS settings later.
4
Press ESC, then select Exit from the main menu using the right arrow
key. The Exit Discarding Changes is automatically selected (it is the
first item in the list).
5
Press Enter, type N when prompted to save, then press Enter to exit
the BIOS Setup Utility.
6
Turn off the computer and unplug the power cord.
7
Remove the side panel (see “Removing the Side Panel” on page 22).
8
Remove the bottom panel (see “Removing the Bottom Panel” on
page 23).
!
When you remove the lithium battery, all values stored in the CMOS memory
(BIOS setup values and Plug and Play values) may be lost. Although the
computer can hold the charge for a short time while replacing the battery, it
is safer to assume that the settings will be lost. When the values are lost, the
BIOS values revert to their factory-default settings (see “Accessing the BIOS
Setup Utility” on page 16).

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
32
9
If necessary, remove any add-in cards (see “Removing an Add-in
Card” on page 29) to gain access to the battery. You may also need to
disconnect some cables.
10
Insert a small flathead screwdriver into the small space at the top of
the battery holder.
11
Gently pry the battery out and dispose of it according to the
instructions that came with the new battery.
12
Insert the new battery into the battery holder, with the plus (+) side
up.
13
Reinstall any add-in cards that were removed.
14
Reconnect any cables that were disconnected.
15
Reinstall the bottom panel (see “Reinstalling the Bottom Panel” on
page 26).
16
Reinstall the side panel (see “Reinstalling the Side Panel” on page 27).
17
Reconnect the power cord and turn on the computer.
!
Touch any exposed metal part of chassis to discharge static electricity in
your body before handling an add-in card or other sensitive electronic
component.
✍
The Sony CR2032 battery is recommended.
KY0072.VSD

Removing, Installing and Reinstalling Components
33
18
If the error message “Error: Check date and time settings.” appears
during the reboot sequence, press F3, then press F2 to access the BIOS
Setup Utility. If no error message displays, the computer’s BIOS
settings were retained during the battery replacement and you can
skip the remaining steps.
19
Refer to the list you made in step 3 and restore any non-default BIOS
settings (see “BIOS Setup Options” on page 69).
20
Press ESC, then select Exit from the main menu using the right arrow
key.
21
Select Exit Saving Changes using the down arrow key, then press
Enter to save the changes and exit the BIOS Setup Utility.
The computer’s BIOS settings are now restored.

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
34
Installing System Memory
WARNING
1
If necessary, remove the memory module you wish to replace (see
“Removing a Memory Module” on page 37).
2
Remove the new memory module(s) from its anti-static package.
Hold the memory module only by its edges to prevent static-
electricity damage.
3
Choose the size of the memory module and configuration as shown
in the following table. Memory modules can vary in size and speed
between sockets. The minimum memory size is 8 MB; the maximum
memory size is 256 MB. The BIOS automatically detects the type, size
and speed of the memory modules.
Before opening the system, save any open files, exit Windows, turn off the power
of the computer and all attached peripherals, and unplug the power cord.
Memory module configurations (MB)
*
* The PCV-E201 is shipped with 32 MB. The PCV-E203 is shipped
with 48 MB. The PCV-E205 is shipped with 64 MB.
Bank 0 Bank 1
0, 8, 16, 32, 64, 128 0, 8, 16, 32, 64, 128
!
Touch any exposed metal part of the chassis to discharge static
electricity in your body before handling a memory module.

Removing, Installing and Reinstalling Components
35
4
Align the module over the appropriate socket, noting the location of
pin 1 on the module and pin 1 on the socket.
5
Carefully but firmly insert the edge of the module into the socket.
6
Press down firmly and evenly at both corners until the module is
fully seated.
7
Reinstall any add-in cards and other components that were removed.
8
Reinstall the bottom panel (see “Reinstalling the Bottom Panel” on
page 26).
✍
When the module is fully seated, the handles on each side are straight up and
locked into the slot on each side of the module. If the handles are not totally
straight upright, continue to press down on each side of the module until the
handles lock into place.
Bank 1
Bank 0
Pin 1 side
1
Indicates pin 1
Memory module (DIMM)
OM04586.VSD
Handles
Press down
here

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
36
9
Reinstall the front panel (see “Reinstalling the Front Panel” on
page 25).
10
Reinstall the side panel (see “Reinstalling the Side Panel” on page 27).
Your computer automatically recognizes the extra memory and will
configure itself accordingly when you turn it on. No further action is
required.

Removing, Installing and Reinstalling Components
37
Removing a Memory Module
You may need to remove a memory module if you change the memory
configuration or replace a bad module.
WARNING
1
Remove the side panel (see “Removing the Side Panel” on page 22).
2
Remove the bottom panel (see “Removing the Bottom Panel” on
page 23).
3
Remove the front panel (see “Removing the Front Panel” on page 24).
4
Slide the diskette drive out approximately two inches (see
“Detaching the Diskette Drive” on page 39).
5
Remove any add-in cards (see “Removing an Add-in Card” on
page 29) and other components as needed to access the memory
modules.
6
Locate the memory module you wish to remove.
Before opening the system, save any open files, exit Windows, turn off the power
of the computer and all attached peripherals, and unplug the power cord.
KY0073.VSD

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
38
7
Push out the handle on each side of the memory module to eject the
module from its socket.
8
Lift the memory module out by grasping it by its edges. Store the
module in a static-free bag.
!
Touch any exposed metal part of the chassis to discharge static
electricity in your body before handling the memory module.
Handles
Push out
KY0042.VSD
KY0043.VSD

Removing, Installing and Reinstalling Components
39
Detaching the Diskette Drive
You need to detach the diskette drive and pull it out approximately two
inches to access the system memory.
1
Remove the two screws that secure the diskette drive carrier to the
chassis.
2
Slide the diskette drive carrier out approximately two inches (enough
to provide access to the memory modules).
3
Unplug the flat ribbon cable and power connector (P4), as needed.
✍
Be careful not to hook the plastic LED and power-switch cover when sliding the diskette
drive in or out. The metal tab on the diskette drive may come close to the plastic cover. If
the plastic cover is accidentally removed, reattach it by inserting the plastic tabs into the
slots in the chassis.
KY0074.VSD
KY0075.VSD

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
40
Removing a Slot Cover
You remove a slot cover when you install an add-in card that occupies a
previously-empty slot.
1
Locate the slot of the cover you want to remove.
2
Remove the side panel (see “Removing the Side Panel” on page 22).
3
Lay the system on its side with the open side facing up.
4
Carefully remove the screw from the slot cover.
5
Carefully remove the loose slot cover and retain it for future use.
KY0069.VSD

Removing, Installing and Reinstalling Components
41
Covering an Open I/O Slot
Slot covers prevent air from escaping through the empty hole. If air
escapes, the components inside the computer cannot be properly cooled.
This may damage some components, especially the main processor
(which generates the most heat).
1
Fit the tip of the slot cover (removed earlier) between the chassis and
system board.
2
Push the slot cover down until it rests firmly on the lip in the chassis.
All add-in card brackets and slot covers rest on this lip.
3
Reinstall the screw (removed earlier) to secure the I/O slot cover.
KY0076.VSD

42

43
Chapter 4
System Board
This chapter identifies each component on the system board and provides
a detailed description of each connector and jumper on the system board.
Slot 1 (ISA)
Processor Memory
Power
Secondary IDE
Primary IDE
Slot 2 (PCI)
Slot 3 (PCI)
Battery
Fan 2
OM04581.VSD
CPU Fan
(not used)
Diskette
PS Fan
CHA Fan (not used)
Front panel header
Ring
BIOS Configuration
CD In
Modem In
TV Out
CPU Speed
Mic In, Line In,
Line Out, Game
Display,
COM1, Printer
USB
Keyboard, Mouse

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
44
Connectors
Front Panel Header
The front panel header is a 20-inch header (1 pin is removed for the key)
that provide connections to various front panel functions. A 20-pin
connector with only eight wires is used to interface the system board to
the front panel.
Connector Name Description
J22 SPEAKER (not used)
J23 PWR LED Connects to the power-on indicator light on the
front panel
J25 HD LED Connects to the hard disk drive access light on
the front panel
J27 SLEEP (not used)
J29 PWR Connects to the power-on switch on the front
panel
J30 RESET Connects to the reset switch on the front panel
KY0031.VSD
Front panel header
SPEAKER
J22
(not used)
PWR LED
J23
SLEEP
J27
RESET
J30
HD LED
J25
PWR
J29

System Board
45
Diskette Drive Connector
OM04701H.VS
D
12
3334
Key (pin 5)

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
46
Memory Module (DIMM) Connectors
Both sides of each Dual Inline Memory Module (DIMM) look very
similar. The side with pin 1 has a small "1" to the left of pin 1. Be sure to
orient a DIMM correctly in the DIMM connector (a small triangle on the
connector indicates pin 1).
OM04710A.VSD
Bank 0
Bank 1
1
11
1
Indicates pin 1
Memory module (DIMM)
OM04908B.VSD

System Board
47
Slot Connectors
There are a total of three slot connectors: one ISA (slot #1) and two PCI
slot connectors (slot #2 and #3). The ISA slot is occupied by the fax/
modem card. The two PCI slot connectors are available for PCI cards.
ISA Slot Connector
✍
Slot #2 and #3 (PCI) connectors do not support bus mastering.
A1 A49A31
B1 B49B31
OM04712A.VSD

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
48
PCI Slot Connectors
There are two PCI slot connectors. PCI slots support 32-bit 5V and
Universal (3.3/5V) PCI add-in cards.
B1 B62
B49 B52
A1 A62
A49 A52
OM04599B.VSD

System Board
49
IDE Connectors
There are two IDE (Integrated Drive Electronics) connectors on the
system board: a Primary IDE and a Secondary IDE connector. Each IDE
connector supports up to two IDE drives using a ribbon cable with two
connectors.
OM04701G.VS
D
1
39
2
40

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
50
Power Connector
The power supply connector on the system board connects to the power
supply connector labelled P1.
OM04701I.VSD
1
10
14
23

System Board
51
Keyboard and Mouse Connectors
The keyboard and mouse connectors are 6-pin female PS/2
®
-type (mini-
DIN) connectors. They have identical pinouts.
Keyboard and Mouse
Pin Signal Name
1DATA
2NC
3LOGIC GND
4+5V (fused)
5CLOCK
6NC
KY0032.VSD
1
6
1
6
Keyboard
Mouse

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
52
USB Connectors
There are two standard USB ports that permit connection of two USB
peripheral devices directly to the system without having to use an
external hub. If more USB devices are needed, connect an external hub to
either USB1 or USB2.
Pin Signal Name
1PWR
2SIGNAL
3SIGNAL
4GND
✍
USB ports are included to provide state-of-the-art technology. Your operating system
supports a limited number of USB devices. You may need to install software (device
drivers) supplied with your USB device before using the USB device.
KY0033.VSD
USB2
USB1

System Board
53
Serial, Printer, and Monitor Connectors
The Serial, Printer, and Monitor connectors are mounted in a single
bracket on the system board. The Serial connector is a DB-9 male
connector. The Printer connector is a DB-25 female connector. The
Monitor connector is a DB-15S female connector.
Serial connector
Pin Signal Name
1DCD
2RXD
3 TXD
4DTR
5LOGIC GND
6DSR
7RTS
8CTS
9RI
OM04701D.VSD
COM1 MONITOR
PRINTER
15
69
13 1
25 14
51
15 11

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
54
Printer connector
Pin Signal Name
1 STROBE -
2DATA BIT 0
3DATA BIT 1
4DATA BIT 2
5DATA BIT 3
6DATA BIT 4
7DATA BIT 5
8DATA BIT 6
9DATA BIT 7
10 ACK -
11 BUSY
12 PE
13 SELECT
14 AUTO-FEED -
15 ERROR -
16 INIT -
17 SELECT-IN -
18 LOGIC GND
19 LOGIC GND
20 LOGIC GND
21 LOGIC GND
22 LOGIC GND
23 LOGIC GND
24 LOGIC GND
25 LOGIC GND

System Board
55
Monitor connector
Pin Signal Name
1RED
2GREEN
3 BLUE
4NC
5LOGIC GND
6RED GND RTN
7GREEN GND RTN
8 BLUE GND RTN
9 +5V PULL-UP
10 LOGIC GND
11 NC
12 DDC DAT
13 HORIZONTAL SYNC
14 VERTICAL SYNC
15 DDC CLK

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
56
Fan Connectors
The CHA-Fan and CPU-Fan connectors are 1 x 3-pin straight header
connectors and have the same pinout. PS-Fan is a 2 x 3-pin connector that
controls the cooling fan in the power supply.
CHA and CPU Fan Connectors
Pin Signal Name
1LOGIC GND
2 +12 VDC (FAN PWR ON)
3FANTACH3
PS Fan Connector
Pin Signal Name
1 Reserved
2Fan On/Off
3 Reserved
4-6 Reserved
KY0034.VS
D
CPU Fan
(not used)
1
3
6
4
3
1
PS Fan
1 3
CHA Fan (not used)

System Board
57
Game Connector
The Game connector is a female DB-15 connector for connecting to a
game controller/joystick or MIDI device.
Game Connector
Pin Signal Name
1+5 VDC (fused)
2 GP4 (JSBUTO)
3 GP0 (JSX1R)
4Ground
5Ground
6 GP1 (JSY1R)
7 GP5 (JSBUT1)
8+5 VDC (fused)
9+5 VDC (fused)
10 GP6 (JSBUT2)
11 GP2 (JSX2R)
12 MIDI-OUTR
13 GP3 (JSY2R)
14 GP7 (JSBUT3)
15 MIDI-INR
KY0056.VS
D
Game

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
58
Headphones, Line In, Mic Connectors
The Headphones jack is a stereo mini-jack (3.5 mm) that connects to
headphones. The Line In jack is a stereo mini-jack (3.5 mm) that connects
to a stereo audio source (not an audio source from a video device). The
Mic In jack is a stereo mini-jack (3.5 mm) that connects to a microphone.
Headphones
Line In
Mic
KY0058.VSD
Mic
Line In
Headphones
OM04713.VSD
L
R
OM04713B.VS
D
R-IN
L-IN
L Imbalance
OM04713A.VS
D
Mic Power
Mic Imbalance
Mic IN

System Board
59
Ring Connector
The Ring connector (J20) is a 1 x 2-pin straight header that connects to the
wake signal (J3) from the fax/modem card to enable the phone ring
signal to wake the system from the sleep state.
This permits the system to go into the sleep state while monitoring the
fax/modem card for a ring signal. Upon receiving an incoming phone or
fax call, the ring signal on the fax/modem card wakes the system,
allowing unattended reception of voice or fax messages.
KY0060.VS
D
J20

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
60
Modem In Connector
The Modem In connector (J9) on the motherboard is a 1 x 4-pin header
connector and connects to the audio output connector (J4) on the fax/
modem card.
J9
Pin Signal Name
1GND
2 MONO_O (to modem chip)
3GND
4MONO_I (to sound chip)
KY0061.VS
D
J9

System Board
61
CD In Connector
The CD In connector (J12) on the motherboard is a 1 x 4-pin header
connector and connects to a CD-ROM (PCV-E201) or CD/DVD-ROM
(PCV-E203/PCV-E205) drive’s audio output connector.
J12
Pin Signal Name
1 LEFT
2GND
3GND
4RIGHT
KY0062.VS
D
J12

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
62
TV Out Connector
The TV Out connector (J16) on the motherboard is a 2 x 5-pin straight
header connector and connects to the composite video out connector (J5)
on the TV-Out Paddle card.
J16
Pin Signal Name
1GND
2COMPOSITE OUT
3GND
4 LUMINANCE OUT
5GND
6 CHROMINANCE OUT
7GND
8VCC
9NC
10 NC
KY0063.VS
D
J16

System Board
63
Configuration Jumpers
The configuration jumpers provide for CPU speed (JP1), password clear
(JP2), and BIOS recovery (JP3) selections.
CPU Speed
The processor speed jumper (JP1) is a 2 x 5 header that is preconfigured
for the appropriate speed, as shown in the following table.
JP1
Position Pins 1 - 2 Pins 3 - 4 Pins 5 - 6 Pins 7 - 8
266 MHz (PCV-E201) OFF ON ON ON
300 MHz (PCV-E203) OFF ON ON OFF
333 MHz (PCV-E205) OFF OFF ON ON
OM04588.VSD
JP1
CPU
SPEED

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
64
Clear Password and BIOS Recovery
The computer is shipped with an unused jumper cap on pins 2 and 3 (pin
3 is floating) for future use. The jumper cap should remain in this inactive
position unless otherwise directed by a technical support person.
JP2, JP3
Position Pins Description
BIOS RCVRY 1 - 2 BIOS recovery mode
CLEAR PSWD 4 - 5 Password clear mode
KY0059.VS
D
BIOS
RCVRY
JP3 JP2
CLEAR
PSWRD
12345

65
Chapter 5
TV-Out Paddle Card
(PCV-E203/PCV-E205 only)
The TV-Out Paddle card is installed in I/O slot #4, but does not occupy a
slot on the system board. Instead, a ribbon cable connects between J5 on
the TV-Out Paddle card and J16 on the system board. The two connectors
on the front of the I/O bracket provide composite video out and S Video
out.
KY0035.VS
J5
S Video Out
Composite
Video Out

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
66
Connectors
Name Connector Type Description
S Video Out S-video connector Connects to S video input of
video device
Composite Video Out RCA phono jack,
yellow band
Connects to video input of
composite video device

67
Chapter 6
Fax/Modem Card
The fax/modem card occupies ISA slot #1. A two-wire twisted-pair cable
connects JP3 on the fax/modem card to J20 (Ring) on the system board.
Another two-wire twisted-pair cable connects J4 on the fax/modem card
to J9 (Modem In) on the system board.
There are two RJ-11 jacks: one to connect a telephone line, and one to
connect a phone.
Telephone
Line
To J9 (Modem In)
on system board
KY0038.VS
D
To J20 (Ring)
on system board
JP3
J4

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
68
Connectors
Name Connector Type Description
Telephone RJ-11 Connects to phone
Line RJ-11 Connects to telephone line
J4 4-pin connector
on board
Connects to Modem In (J9) connector
on system board
JP3 2-pin header Connects to Ring (J20) connector on
system board

69
Chapter 7
BIOS Setup Options
This chapter describes each screen in the PhoenixBIOS Setup Utility (see
“Accessing the BIOS Setup Utility” on page 16).
The PhoenixBIOS setup has six menu items on the menu bar. These are:
❑
Main
❑
Advanced
❑
Security
❑
Power
❑
Boot
❑
Exit
Options that you can change are enclosed in brackets. Text that is not
enclosed in brackets cannot be changed.
A small triangle ( ) indicates that there is a sub-menu with additional
information and options. Press Enter to open the sub-menu. The
information and options in a sub-menu are context-sensitive (they appear
or disappear, depending on other selected options).
The item shown in [brackets] in this guide is the default option. The
option shown in [brackets] on the screen is the current option. The
available options are shown without brackets in this guide, directly below
the default option. The available options are listed in the order they occur
when you press the + key.
To change an option, use the left and right arrow keys to choose the menu
item. Use the up and down arrow keys to select an option. Press Enter if
the option is a sub-menu, or press the + or - key to cycle through the other
options.

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
70
Press Esc to go back to the main menu. Press F10 to save the changes and
exit, or press Esc to discard the changes. Follow the on-screen prompts for
other choices. The bottom of the screen presents a summary of the keys to
use for navigation and control.

BIOS Setup Options
71
Main Screen
System Time: [00:00:00]
System Date: [01/01/1988]
Language: [English (US)]
Legacy Diskette A: [1.44/1.25 MB 3½”
2.88 MB 3½”
Disabled
360 KB 5¼”
1.2 MB 5¼”
720 KB 3½”
Diskette B: [Disabled]
1.44/1.25 MB 3½”
2.88 MB 3½”
360 KB 5¼”
1.2 MB 5¼”
720 KB 3½”

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
72
Primary Master [Example: 8400MB]
Type: [AUTO]
NONE
CD-ROM
ATAPI Removable
IDE Removable
USER
Cylinders
*
: [Example: 17361]
Heads*: [Example: 15]
Sectors*: [Example: 63]
Maximum Capacity*: Example: 8400 MB
Multi-Sector Transfers
†
: [Example: 16 Sectors]
Disabled
2 Sectors
4 Sectors
8 Sectors
LBA Mode Control
†
: [Enabled]
Disabled
32 Bit I/O
†
: [Enabled]
Disabled
Transfer Mode
†
:[Fast PIO 4]
FPIO 3/DMA 1
FPIO 4/DMA 2
Standard
Fast PIO 1
Fast PIO 2
Fast PIO 3
Ultra DMA Mode†: [Mode 2]
Disabled
Mode 0
Mode 1
* This option appears when Type is set to User or Auto, but is disabled when Type is set to Auto.
† This option is enabled when Type is not set to NONE or Auto.

BIOS Setup Options
73
Primary Slave [None]
Type: [AUTO]
NONE
CD-ROM
ATAPI Removable
IDE Removable
USER
Cylinders
*
:[0]
Heads*: [1]
Sectors*: [0]
Maximum Capacity*: 0 MB
Multi-Sector Transfers
†
:[Disabled]
2 Sectors
4 Sectors
8 Sectors
16 Sectors
LBA Mode Control
†
:[Disabled]
Enabled
32 Bit I/O
†
: [Enabled]
Disabled
Transfer Mode
†
:[Standard]
Fast PIO 1
Fast PIO 2
Fast PIO 3
Fast PIO 4
FPIO 3/DMA 1
FPIO 4/DMA 2
Ultra DMA Mode
†
:[Disabled]
Mode 0
Mode 1
Mode 2
* This option appears when Type is set to User or Auto, but is disabled when Type is set to Auto.
† This option is enabled when Type is not set to NONE or Auto.

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
74
Secondary Master [CD-ROM]
Type: [AUTO]
NONE
CD-ROM
ATAPI Removable
IDE Removable
USER
Cylinders
*
:[0]
Heads*: [1]
Sectors*: [0]
Maximum Capacity*: 0 MB
Multi-Sector Transfers
†
:[Disabled]
LBA Mode Control
†
:[Disabled]
32 Bit I/O
†
: [Enabled]
Disabled
Transfer Mode
†
:[Fast PIO 3]
Fast PIO 4
FPIO 3/DMA 1
FPIO 4/DMA 2
Standard
Fast PIO 1
Fast PIO 2
Ultra DMA Mode
†
:[Disabled]
Mode 0
Mode 1
Mode 2
* This option appears when Type is set to User or Auto, but is disabled when Type is set to Auto..
† This option is enabled when Type is not set to NONE or Auto.

BIOS Setup Options
75
Secondary Slave [None]
Type: [NONE]
CD-ROM
ATAPI Removable
IDE Removable
USER
AUTO
Cylinders
*
:[0]
Heads*: [1]
Sectors*: [0]
Maximum Capacity*: 0 MB
Multi-Sector Transfers
†
:[Disabled]
32 Bit I/O
†
: [Enabled]
Disabled
Transfer Mode
†
:[Standard]
Fast PIO 1
Fast PIO 2
Fast PIO 3
Fast PIO 4
FPIO 3/DMA 1
FPIO 4/DMA 2
Ultra DMA Mode
†
:[Disabled]
Mode 0
Mode 1
Mode 2
QuickBoot Mode: [Enabled]
Disabled
System Memory: 640 KB
Extended Memory: 64512 KB
* This option appears when Type is set to User or Auto, but is disabled when Type is set to Auto.
† This option is enabled when Type is not set to NONE or Auto.

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
76
Advanced Screen
Plug and Play OS: [Yes]
No
Reset Configuration Data: [No]
Yes
USB Legacy Support: [Disabled]
Enabled
PCI Configuration
PCI Device, Slot #1
Option ROM Scan: [Enabled]
Disabled
Enable Master: [Disabled]
Enabled
Latency Timer: [0040h]
0060h
0080h
00A0h
00C0h
00E0h
Default
0020h
PCI Device, Slot #2
Option ROM Scan: [Enabled]
Disabled
Enable Master: [Disabled]
Enabled
Latency Timer: [0040h]
0060h
0080h
00A0h
00C0h
00E0h
Default
0020h
Secured Set Configuration [No]
Yes

BIOS Setup Options
77
I/O Device Configuration
Serial port A: [Auto]
Disabled
Enabled
Base I/O address
*
: [3F8]
2F8
3E8
2E8
Interrupt*: [IRQ 4]
IRQ 3
Parallel port: [Auto]
Disabled
Enabled
Mode
†
:[ECP]
Output only
Bi-directional
EPP
Base I/O address
‡
: [378]
278
3BC
Interrupt‡: [IRQ 7]
IRQ 5
DMA channel
**
:[DMA 3]
DMA 1
Floppy disk controller: [Enabled]
Auto
Disabled
Base I/O address: [Primary]
Secondary
Large Disk Access Mode: [DOS]
Other
Local Bus IDE adapter: [Both]
Disabled
Primary
Secondary
Sound: [Enabled]
Disabled
* This option appears only if the port is set to Enabled.
† This option appears only if the port is set to Auto or Enabled.
‡ This option appears only if the port is set to Enabled and Mode is not set to EPP.
**This option appears only if the port is set to Enabled and Mode is set to ECP.

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
78
Advanced Chipset Control
Enable memory gap: [Disabled]
Conventional
Extended

BIOS Setup Options
79
Security Screen
User Password Is: Clear
Supervisor Password Is: Clear
Set User Password [Enter]
Set Supervisor Password [Enter]
Password on boot: [Disabled]
Enabled

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
80
Power Screen
Power Savings: [Customized]
Maximum Power Savings
Maximum Performance
Disabled
Auto Suspend Timeout: [30 Minutes]
40 Minutes
60 Minutes
Off
5 Minutes
10 Minutes
15 Minutes
20 Minutes
Resume on Modem Ring: [On]
Off
Resume on Time: [On]
Off
Resume Time: [00:00:00
AC LOSS Control [Disabled]
Enabled
Advanced Options
IDE Drive 0 Monitoring: [Enabled]
Disabled
IDE Drive 1 Monitoring: [Enabled]
Disabled
IDE Drive 2 Monitoring: [Disabled]
Enabled
IDE Drive 3 Monitoring: [Disabled]
Enabled
Audio, Joystick [Enabled]
Disabled
Floppy Disk Drive [Enabled]
Disabled
Serial Port A [Enabled]
Disabled
Serial Port B or Modem [Enabled]
Disabled
Parallel Port [Enabled]
Disabled

BIOS Setup Options
81
Keyboard, Mouse, Video [Enabled]
Disabled
PCI Bus Mastering [Disabled]
Enabled

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
82
Boot Screen
1. [ATAPI CD-ROM Drive]
2. [Removable Devices]
3. [Hard Drive]
Hard Drive
1. [Example: Maxtor 90840D6]
2. [Bootable Add-in Card]
Removable Devices
1. [Legacy Floppy Drives]
Floppy check: [Enabled]
Disabled

BIOS Setup Options
83
Exit Screen
Exit Saving Changes
Exit Discarding Changes
Load Setup Defaults
Discard Changes
Save Changes

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
84

85
Chapter 8
Miscellaneous Technical
Information
This chapter contains information on the following subjects:
❑
User and Supervisor password
❑
Beep code error messages
❑
PCI configuration status and error messages
❑
DMA channel assignments
❑
IRQ assignments
❑
System I/O address map
❑
Memory map

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
86
About User and Supervisor Passwords
The system allows you to specify up to two passwords (a User password
and a Supervisor password) in the BIOS Setup Utility. The User password
is required; the Supervisor password is optional.
Access to the BIOS Setup Utility depends on which passwords were
previously set, as indicated next.
If you set these passwords... ...the following passwords are required:
User password only User password is required at bootup.
Supervisor password only No password is required at bootup.
Supervisor password is required by most
setup options.
Both passwords User password is required at bootup.
Supervisor password is required by most
setup options.

Miscellaneous Technical Information
87
Beep Code Error Messages
During a normal bootup, a single short beep signifies that the system is
OK. Other beep patterns signify errors. The number of beeps indicates the
specific error that occurred.
The Sony Online Support technical representative will need to know how
many beeps your system produces if there is an error, so be sure to count
the number of beeps before calling for support.

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
88
PCI Configuration Status And Error Messages
The following is a list of status and error messages that may appear on
your system from time to time.
Message Meaning
Floppy Disk Controller
Resource Conflict
The diskette controller has requested a
resource that is already in use.
NVRAM Checksum Error,
NVRAM Cleared
The NVRAM data was reinitialized due to
an NVRAM checksum error.
NVRAM Cleared By Jumper The Clear CMOS jumper block has been
changed to the clear position.
NVRAM Data Invalid,
NVRAM Cleared
Invalid entry in the NVRAM.
Parallel Port Resource Conflict The parallel port has requested a resource
that is already in use.
PCI Error Log is Full This message is displayed when more than
15 PCI conflict errors are detected. No
additional PCI errors can be logged.
PCI I/O Port Conflict Two devices requested the same resource,
resulting in a conflict.
PCI IRQ Conflict Two devices requested the same resource,
resulting in a conflict.
PCI Memory Conflict Two devices requested the same resource,
resulting in a conflict.
Primary Boot Device Not
Found
The designated primary boot device (hard
disk drive, diskette drive, CD-ROM drive,
or network drive) could not be found.
Primary IDE Controller
Resource Conflict
The primary IDE controller has requested a
resource that is already in use.
Primary Input Device Not
Found
The designated primary input device
(keyboard, mouse, or other, if input is
redirected) could not be found.
Primary Output Device Not
Found
The designated primary output device
(display, serial port, or other, if input is
redirected) could not be found.
Secondary IDE Controller
Resource Conflict
The secondary IDE controller has requested
a resource that is already in use.
Serial Port 1 Resource Conflict Serial port 1 has requested a resource that is
already in use.

Miscellaneous Technical Information
89
Serial Port 2 Resource Conflict Serial port 2 has requested a resource that is
already in use.
Static Device Resource Conflict A non-Plug and Play ISA card has
requested a resource that is already in use.
System Board Device Resource
Conflict
A non-Plug and-Play ISA card has
requested a resource that is already in use.

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90
DMA Channel Assignments
This shows the factory default values. Windows 98 reassigns resources to
best meet the needs of a particular configuration.
DMA
Channel
Default
Assignment
0Open
1 ECP printer port (LPT1)
2 Standard diskette drive controller
3 ES1938 DOS emulation
4 DMA controller
5Open
6Open
7Open

Miscellaneous Technical Information
91
IRQ Assignments
✍
This shows the factory default values. Windows 98 will reassign resources to best meet
the needs of a particular configuration. PCI IRQs can be shared between several PCI
devices.
IRQ # Default Assignment
0 System timer
1 Standard 101/102-key or Microsoft
®
Natural Keyboard
2 Programmable interrupt controller
3 LT WinModem NV #3
4 Communications port (COM1)
5 Shared between IRQ holder for PCI steering, ES1938 PCI AudioDrive,
and ES1938 AudioDrive device manager
6 Standard diskette drive controller
7 ECP printer port (LPT1)
8 System CMOS/real time clock
9 Shared between IRQ holder for PCI steering and Intel 82371AB/EB
PCI-to-USB Universal Host Controller
10 Open
11 Shared between IRQ holder for PCI steering and Rage Pro Turbo 1X
(English) (DirectX)
12 PS/2-compatible mouse port
13 Numeric data processor
14 Shared between primary IDE controller (dual FIFO) and Intel
82371AB/EB PCI bus master IDE controller
15 Shared between secondary IDE controller (dual FIFO) and Intel
82371AB/EB PCI bus master IDE controller

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92
System I/O Address Map
Address
Range
(hexadecimal)
Description
0000 - 000F DMA controller
0010 - 001F In use by unknown device
0020 - 0021 Programmable interrupt controller
0022 - 003F In use by unkown device
0040 - 0043 System timer
0044 - 005F In use by unknown device
0060 Standard 101/102-key or Microsoft Natural Keyboard
0061 System speaker
0062 - 0063 In use by unknown device
0064 Standard 101/102-key or Microsoft Natural Keyboard
0065 - 006F In use by unknown device
0070 - 0071 System CMOS/real-time clock
0072 - 007F In use by unknown device
0080 System board resources
0081 - 008F DMA controller
0090 - 009F In use by unknown device
00A0 - 00A1 Programmable interrupt controller
00A2 - 00BF In use by unknown device
00C0 - 00DF DMA controller
00E0 - 00E1 System board resources
00E2 - 00EF In use by unknown device
00F0 - 00FF Numeric data processor
0108 - 010F LT WinModem
®
NV #3
0120 - 013F Standard universal PCI-to-USB host controller
0170 - 0177 Shared between Intel 82371AB/EB PCI bus master IDE
controller and secondary IDE controller (dual FIFO)
01F0 - 01F7 Shared between Intel 82371AB/EB PCI bus master IDE
controller and primary IDE controller (dual FIFO)
0200 - 0203 Gameport
™
joystick controller
0220-022F ES1938 DOS emulation
0274 - 0277 I/O Read Data port for ISA PnP enumerator
02F8 - 02FF LT WinModem NV #3

Miscellaneous Technical Information
93
0330 - 0331 ES1938 DOS emulation
0376 Shared between secondary IDE controller (dual FIFO) and
Intel 82371AB/EB PCI bus master IDE controller
0378 - 037B ECP printer port (LPT1)
0388 - 038B ES1938 DOS emulation
03B0 - 03BB Rage Pro Turbo 1X (English) (DirectX)
03C0 - 03DF Rage Pro Turbo 1X (English) (DirectX)
03F0 - 03F5 Standard dikette drive controller
03F6 Shared between primary IDE controller (dual FIFO) and
Intel 82371AB/EB PCI bus master IDE controller
03F7 Standard diskette drive controller
03F8 - 03FF Communications port (COM1)
04D0 - 04D1 System board resources
0778 - 077F ECP printer port (LPT1)
0CF8 - 0CFF PCI bus
1000 - 1007 Primary IDE controller (dual FIFO)
1008 - 100F Shared between secondary IDE controller (dual FIFO) and
Intel 82371AB/EB PCI bus master IDE controller
1010 - 1013 ES1938 PCI AudioDrive device manager
1014 - 1017 Intel 82371AB/EB PCI-to-USB Universal Host Controller
1040 - 104F System board resources
Address
Range
(hexadecimal)
Description

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
94
Memory Map
Address range Default configuration
00000000 - 0009FFFF System board extension for PnP BIOS
000A0000 - 000AFFFF Rage Pro Turbo 1X (English) (DirectX)
000B0000 - 000BFFFF Rage Pro Turbo 1X (English) (DirectX)
000C0000 - 000CBFFF Rage Pro Turbo 1X (English) (DirectX)
000E0000 - 000FFFFF System board extension for PnP BIOS
00100000 - 03FFFFFF System board extension for PnP BIOS
F4000000 - F4000FFF Rage Pro Turbo 1X (English) (DirectX)
F4000000 - F40FFFFF Intel 82443LX/EX Pentium
®
II processor-to-AGP
controller
F4020000 - F403FFFF Rage Pro Turbo 1X (English) (DirectX)
F5000000 - F5FFFFFF Shared between Intel 82443LX/EX Pentium
®
II
processor-to-AGP controller and Rage Pro Turbo
1X (English) (DirectX)
F8000000 - FBFFFFFF Intel 82443LX/EX Pentium
®
II processor-to-PCI
bridge controller
FFF80000 - FFFFFFFF System board resources

95
Chapter 9
Specifications
This chapter describes the technical specifications for the Sony PCV-E201,
PCV-E203, and PCV-E205.
Processor
Memory Modules (DIMMs)
PCV-E201 266 MHz Intel Celeron
™
processor
PCV-E203 300 MHz Intel Celeron processor
PCV-E205 333 MHz Intel Pentium II processor
Installed memory PCV-E201: 32 Mbytes SDRAM (66 MHz)
PCV-E203: 48 Mbytes SDRAM (66 MHz)
PCV-E205: 64 Mbytes SDRAM (66 MHz)
Maximum memory 256 Mbytes in two 168-pin DIMM sockets
Voltage 3.3 V memory only
Pins 168-pins with gold-plated contacts
SDRAM speed 60 ns, unrestricted CAS latency 2, unbuffered, Intel 4-
clock
SDRAM data transfer
rate
100 Mbytes/second non-contiguous burst
SDRAM bus speed 66 MHz
SDRAM data path 64 bits (non-ECC) or 72 bits (ECC)

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
96
DIMM Configurations
L2 Cache
Graphics
DIMM Size
*
* Can be installed in one or two sockets. Memory size can vary between sockets. DIMMs can be single-sided
or double-sided. DIMMs must be 3.3V unbuffered 4clock, 64-bit or 72-bit 66MHz SDRAM module, Rev 1.0.
Non-ECC (64 bits) and ECC (72 bits)
8 MB 1 Mbit
16 MB 2 Mbit
32 MB 4 Mbit
64 MB 8 Mbit
128 MB 16 Mbit
Installed Intel Celeron processor: 0 kbytes
Intel Pentium II processor: 512 kbytes secondary write-
back cache
Controller Intel 82440EX PAC
Controller
*
* Supports DDC-1 and DDC-2b standards for Plug and Play displays.
Rage Pro Turbo 1X (English) (DirectX) 64-bit AGP
Video memory PCV-E201: 2Mbytes (installed)
PCV-E203: 4Mbytes (installed)
PCV-E205: 4 Mbytes (installed)
Resolution (displayed resolution depends on the graphics display you are using)
PCV-E201
True color (32 bits) Up to 800 x 600 at 85 Hz non-interlaced
True color (24 bits) Up to 800 x 600 at 85 Hz non-interlaced
High color (16 bits) Up to 1152 x 864 at 85 Hz non-interlaced
256 colors (8 bits) Up to 1280 x 1024 at 85 Hz non-interlaced
PCV-E203/PCV-E205
True color (32 bits) Up to 1152 x 864 at 85 Hz non-interlaced
True color (24 bits) Up to 1280 x 1024 at 85 Hz non-interlaced
High color (16 bits) Up to 1280 x 1024 at 85 Hz non-interlaced
256 colors (8 bits) Up to 1280 x 1024 at 85 Hz non-interlaced

Specifications
97
Video
Audio
Communications
I/O and Expansion Slots
Video playback “Sony-tuned” MPEG Digital Video supports full-screen
playback at 30 fps, 640x480x16
Output connectors PCV-E201: none
PCV-E203: Composite out, S Video out
PCV-E205: Composite out, S Video out
Plug and Play Configuration of DDC-compatible displays
Controller PCI ESS Solo-1 audio accelerator
Surround sound 3D-enhanced
Audio sampling rate Up to 48 kHz at 16 bits
Rear panel connectors Mic (for microphone)
Line In (from stereo audio source)
Headphones (for stereo headphone)
Modem 33.6 kbps with K56flex
®
technology
Fax/modem 14.4 kbps
Serial ports One high-speed NS16C550-compatible port
Parallel port One high-speed bi-directional Centronics-
compatible port with ECP and EPP modes
MIDI/game port One (supports MIDI in/out or two joysticks —
adapter cable not supplied)
Modem ports Two RJ-11 connectors (for line and phone)
USB ports USB 1 and USB 2
PCI slots Two available slots. Maximum length for add-in
cards is 7.75 inches
ISA slots One (occupied by fax/modem card). Maximum
length for add-in card is 10.5 inches.
IDE connectors Primary and Secondary (each supports two IDE
drives)

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
98
Drives and Controllers
BIOS
Diskette controller 765A-compatible (supports up to 2.88 MByte)
Diskette drive 1.44 MByte 3.5-inch MFDD
EIDE controller Supports up to four EIDE drives (supports PIO Mode
4 EIDE drives and Ultra DMA/33 Mode drives)
IDE hard drive PCV-E201: 4.3 GByte (bus-mastering EIDE driver
installed)
PCV-E203: 6.4 GByte (bus-mastering EIDE driver
installed)
PCV-E205: 8.4 GByte (bus-mastering EIDE driver
installed)
CD-ROM drive
(PCV-E201)
24X (maximum performance).
*
* Data on a CD-ROM disc is read at a variable transfer rate, ranging from 10X at the innermost track to 24X at
the outermost track (the data transfer standard 1X rate is 150 kbytes/s). The average data transfer rate is 17X
(2550 kbytes/s).
†
DVD-ROM drive also plays CD-ROM discs. Data on the DVD-ROM is read at a variable transfer rate, ranging
from 2X at the innermost track to 5X at the outermost track (the data transfer standard 1X rate is 1385
kbytes/s). The average data transfer rate is 3.4X (4709 kbytes/s). Data on a CD-ROM disc is read at a variable
transfer rate, ranging from 10X at the innermost track to 24X at the outermost track (the data transfer
standard 1X rate is 150 kybtes/s). The average data transfer rate is 17X (2250 kbytes/s).
DVD-ROM drive
(PCV-E203/PCV-E205)
5X (maximum performance).
†
Make and model Phoenix BIOS
ROM 256 kbytes flash
*
* Flash-ROM update utility is available.
Passwords User and supervisor passwords supported
Recovery boot block Supported
Power management Supports ACPI
Plug and Play devices Supported

Specifications
99
Power Supply
CPU Environment
Power management control Software
Processor voltage regulator On system board
Power 135 W peak, 90 W continuous
Current draw (maximum) 1.5A at 12 VDC
12A at 5 VDC
*
6A at 3.3 VDC
*
0.2A at -12 VDC
0.72A at +5VSB
* 5V current to expansion slots should not exceed 2A per slot. Combined 5V and 3.3V power not to exceed
30W.
Operating temperature 10 to 35°C (50 to 95°F)
Non-operating (storage)
temperature
-30 to 60°C (-22 to 140°F)
Operating humidity 80% RH at 36°C (with no hard disk drive)
Non-operating humidity 92% RH at 36°C
Dimensions Approx. 7 in (w) x 12 in (h) x 13 ¾ in (d)
(178 x 305 x 349 mm)
Weight (without monitor) as
shipped
Approx. 17 lb (7.71 kg)

100

101
Index
A
add-in card
installing
28
removing
29
address map
system
92
audio
specifications
97
B
battery - See lithium battery
beep codes
87
BIOS
specifications
98
BIOS setup utility
16
advanced screen
76
boot screen
82
exit screen
83
main screen
71
options
69
power screen
80
screens
69
security screen
79
bottom panel
reinstalling
26
removing
23
C
card
modem
67
TV-Out paddle
65
CD-ROM
specifications
98
CD-ROM - See Also drive
CMOS - See Also BIOS
codes
beeps
87
COM1 port - See Serial
communications
specifications
97
composite video out
connector
66
computer
safety information
ii
configuration jumper
BIOS recovery
63
CPU Speed
63
password clear
63
configuring
BIOS setup utility
16
power management
17
system board
18
connector
4-pin on modem card
68
composite video out
66
fan
56
keyboard
51
line
68
modem card
68
monitor
11
mouse
51
power
50
printer
53
Serial
53
telephone
68
TV-Out
66
connectors
IDE
49
system board
44
USB
52

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
102
cover
slot
40
covering
I/O slot
41
CPU - See processor
D
DIMM - See memory module
diskette drive
connector
45
removing
39
display
power management
17
display - See monitor
DMA channel assignments
90
drive
CD-ROM specifications
98
DVD-ROM specifications
98
IDE connectors
49
specifications
98
DVD-ROM
98
specifications
98
E
environment
specifications
99
error messages
beep codes
87
PCI configuration
88
expansion slot
specifications
97
expansion slots
14
expansion slots - See Also slots
F
fan connectors
56
CHA
56
CPU
56
PS-Fan
56
fax card - See modem card
fax/modem - See Also
communications
FCC Part 68
iv
floppy drive - See diskette drive
front panel
reinstalling
25
removing
24
front panel header
44
front view
2
buttons and switches
4
connectors
5
drives
3
indicators
5
G
graphics
specifications
96
graphics controller - See graphics
H
header - See front panel header
I
I/O
slot specifications
97
I/O address map
92
I/O connectors
game port
12
keyboard and mouse
9
mic, line in, headphones
12
monitor
11
printer port
10
S video
10
serial port 1
9
telephone and line
13
USB ports
9
I/O slot
covering
41
IDE
connectors
49
specifications
98
input devices
iii
installing
add-in card
28
system memory
34
interference
iii
IRQ assignments
91
ISA
slot connector
47
J
jumper - See system board

103
K
keyboard
connector
51
L
L2 cache
specifications
96
lithium battery
replacing
31
M
map - See Also I/O address map
memory
map
94
specifications
95
memory - See Also system memory
memory map
94
memory module
connector
46
removing
37
specifications
95
messages
error
87
status and error
88
microprocessor - See processor
model numbers
ii
modem - See Also communications
modem card
connectors
68
view of
67
monitor - See display
monitor connector
11
mouse
connector
51
N
notice to users
ii
O
operating temperature - See
environment
output devices
iii
P
panel
bottom
23
,
26
front
24
,
25
side
22
,
27
passwords
about
86
PCI
slot connectors
48
plug & play
specifications
97
power connector
50
power management
configuring
17
power supply
specifications
99
printer
connector
53
processor
specifications
95
R
radio interference
iii
RAM - See Also system memory
rear view
6
I/O connectors
9
icons
7
recording
ii
regulatory information
iii
reinstalling
27
bottom panel
26
front panel
25
side panel
27
removing
add-in card
29
bottom panel
23
diskette drive
39
front panel
24
memory module
37
side panel
22
slot cover
40
replacing
lithium battery
31
resolution - See graphics
S
S video out
connector
66

VAIO MicroTower System Reference
104
safety information
ii
Serial
connector
53
serial numbers
ii
serial port - See Serial
setup
BIOS
16
side panel
27
removing
22
slot - See Also I/O slot
slot connectors
47
ISA
47
PCI
48
slot cover
removing
40
specifications
audio
97
BIOS
98
communications
97
drives and controllers
98
environment
99
graphics
96
I/O and expansion slots
97
L2 cache
96
memory
95
memory module
95
plug & play
97
power supply
99
processor
95
video
97
status and error messages
88
supervisor password
86
system
I/O address map
92
system board
configuration jumpers
63
configuring
18
connectors
44
diskette drive connector
45
fan connectors
56
front panel header
44
IDE connectors
49
ISA slot connector
47
keyboard connector
51
memory module connector
46
mouse connector
51
PCI slot connectors
48
power connector
50
Serial connector
53
slot connectors
47
USB connectors
52
system memory
installing
34
T
Telephone Consumer Protection Act of
1991
iv
TV interference
iii
TV-Out card
connectors
66
TV-Out paddle card
connector
66
view of
65
U
USB connectors
52
user password
86
V
video
specifications
97
W
weight - See environment

