Safety dos and don’ts for VAIO notebooks

Using your VAIO safely

Finding a safe workspace
Drops, spills and other hazards
Cleaning your VAIO
Battery pack safety
Battery use
Using the AC adaptor
Handling CDs, DVDs and Blu-ray discs
Ergonomics

Finding a safe workspace

You should always use your computer on a solid, stable surface. Using your VAIO on or right next to soft materials – such as a blanket, cushion, bed or curtains – can block the air vents and cause overheating. This could damage the computer and the surface underneath. The heat also has the potential to burn or irritate your skin, so you should avoid using your computer directly on your lap.

To prevent damage to your computer, you’ll need a workspace that’s free from:
•     heat sources, including radiators or air ducts
•     direct sunlight
•     excessive dust
•     moisture or rain
•     mechanical vibration or shock
•     strong magnets, speakers that are not magnetically shielded or electronic equipment that generates a strong electromagnetic field
•     unusually high or low temperatures – more than 35°C or less than 5°C
•     high humidity

Drops, spills and other hazards

Avoid dropping your computer or placing too much weight on its top. If you do have a drop or a spill:
•     shut down the computer
•     unplug it
•     remove the battery pack

You may want to have your VAIO checked by a qualified professional before turning it back on.

Cables are a potential hazard. It’s safest if you use only peripherals and cables that are compatible with your machine. And never use a cut or damaged cable.

Finally, when bringing your computer from a cold location to a warm one, wait at least an hour before you turn it on. This is to avoid problems caused by moisture condensing inside the computer. If you do have a problem, unplug the computer, remove the battery pack and contact us.

Cleaning your VAIO

Before getting started, shut down your computer, unplug it and remove the battery pack. You can then clean the outside surfaces of your computer with a soft microfibre cloth. If you prefer, you can dampen the cloth with a mild, soapy solution.

If you use any kind of abrasive pad, scouring powder or a strong alcohol or benzene-based solvent, you could damage the finish of your VAIO.

Battery pack safety

It’s important to use only official Sony battery packs that are designed for your model of VAIO. Counterfeit batteries or non-Sony replacements may be low quality, incompatible or unsafe. Official Sony resellers are a good source for approved batteries.

To keep your battery pack safe from damage, you should:
•     avoid leaving your battery pack next to a heat source or in any place that could get above 60°C, such as a car parked in the sun
•     keep the battery pack dry
•     remove the battery pack from the computer if you are not planning to use your VAIO for a long period of time
•     take care not to drop the battery pack or expose it to any mechanical shocks
•     avoid opening or attempting to disassemble the battery pack

While being exposed to excessive heat isn’t good for the battery pack, keep in mind that when the battery is in use or being charged it does tend to heat up. This is normal and not a cause for concern.

Battery use

Temperature can have a big impact on battery performance. In a cold environment, you’ll have a shorter battery life and a longer charging time. You’ll get the best battery efficiency at temperatures between 10°C and 30°C.

Another point to keep in mind is that the battery will discharge over time, even if you’re not using it. If it’s been a long time since you’ve turned on your VAIO, you should recharge the battery using the AC adaptor before you take your notebook on the go.

Finally, if you find that your battery goes from a full charge to empty very quickly, the battery may be reaching the end of its life and should be replaced.  

Read more about  prolonging your VAIO’s battery life

Using the AC adaptor

Please use only Sony AC adaptors, designed for your model of VAIO. We cannot guarantee product safety with counterfeit or off-brand AC adaptors. You can find approved products at an official Sony reseller.

To ensure safety, you should also follow these tips:
•     Always make sure that the power cable is properly connected
•     If your AC adaptor has a 3-pin power cable, make sure to use it with a properly grounded wall socket to avoid a small static charge building up on the outside of your notebook
•     To avoid excess heat, you should ensure the AC adaptor is in a well-ventilated area with the label facing down

Handling CDs, DVDs and Blu-ray discs

Fingerprints and dust on the surface of a disc may cause errors. You can avoid touching the surface by holding the disc by the edges and centre, as shown.



Never stick an adhesive label to a disc. This will affect the use of the disc and can even cause an irreparable problem.

Proper care can help keep the disc continuously reliable:
•     For normal cleaning, hold the disc by its edges and use a soft cloth to wipe the surface from the centre out.
•     For badly soiled discs, moisten a soft cloth with water, wring it out well, and use it to wipe the surface of the disc from the centre outwards. Wipe off any remaining moisture with a dry soft cloth.
•        Avoid using solvents that can damage the disc, such as benzene, thinner, alcohol, commercially available cleaners or anti-static spray.

Ergonomics

Paying attention to ergonomics can help you avoid eye, muscle and tendon strain when using your VAIO for long periods of time. Whenever possible, try to position your computer as follows:

1.     The computer directly in front of you
2.     Your forearms horizontal and your upper arms hanging naturally at your side
3.     Your wrists in a comfortable, non-strained position while using the keyboard, touch pad or external mouse

There are a number of additional steps you can take to make your working environment more comfortable:
•     Sit in a chair with good back support that allows you to keep your feet flat on the floor or on a footrest
•     Sit with relaxed but upright posture and avoid slouching forward or leaning too far backwards
•     Tilt the display to find a comfortable viewing angle, then adjust the brightness to an appropriate level
•     Choose a work location with indirect lighting, as too much direct light can cause glare, reflections or bright spots on the display
•     Take frequent breaks
•     If you use an external display, make sure it’s at a comfortable distance with the screen at eye level or slightly lower.