VAIO Library - User contributions [en]

PCG-X505

2026-03-11T10:14:05Z

Resident007: /* Recovery Discs */ Added two recoveries and some info about revisions

{{Infobox Specs
| name = PCG-X505
| image = 10 PCG-X505 .1391682306.jpg
| subtitle = PCG-X505 from front
| series = 505 series
| rel = 2003 (Japan), 2004 (Worldwide)
| cpu = Intel Pentium M ULV "Banias" 1.0/1.1GHz
| gpu = Intel 855GME with up to 64MB VRAM (allocated from RAM)
| chipset = Intel 855GME
| memory = 512MB DDR SDRAM (soldered, non-upgradable)
| display = 10.4" 1024x768 (XGA) TFT panel, 4:3
| storage = 1.8" HDD (compact IDE, iPod-compatible)
| audio = SoundMAX AC'97 compatible
| ports = 1x Type II PC Card slot; 1x Sony i.Link S400 (IEEE 1394/FireWire 400 4-pin); 2x USB 2.0
| connectivity = 802.11 a/b/g wireless (via included PCMCIA card)
| os = Microsoft Windows XP Professional
| weight = 860g (1.85lbs)
| size = 260 × 208 × 21mm (approx.)
| battery = ~3h (2h 57min tested by NotebookReview.com)
| msrp = $2999.99 US (SonyStyle.com)
}}

[[File:PCG-X505 from side.jpg|alt=PCG-X505 from side|thumb|PCG-X505 from side]]
The VAIO PCG-X505 was a high-end, thin and light, "ultraportable" laptop computer released by Sony worldwide in 2004 (with a Japan-only release in 2003). It was marketed as an "Extreme 505" notebook, the last in the 505 series. It was the slimmest laptop available at the time and is still thought of as the "MacBook Air before the MacBook Air".

[[File:PCG-X505 marketing image.jpg|alt=PCG-X505 marketing image|thumb|PCG-X505 marketing image]]
It was highly praised for its cutting-edge thin design, its very low weight (only 860g - 1.85lb, achieved by using carbon fiber for the lid) and for the good performance that it still managed to achieve in spite of the very compact dimensions. It featured an Intel Ultra Low Voltage (ULV) "Banias" Pentium M clocked at 1.0 or 1.1GHz and Intel 855GME Graphics with up to 64MB of VRAM allocated from system RAM.

The original MSRP for its US release was 2999.99USD from the SonyStyle.com website. It shipped with Windows XP Professional.

Original Sony accessories for the laptop included a semi-rigid carrying case, a DVD-RW external unit powered by a special connector that slots inside the i.Link S400 port and a power outlet near said port and a PCMCIA wireless card.

There were two revisions of this model, the first one includes models PCG-X505/P and PCG/X505/SP, was released only for the Japanese Market and uses 1.0GHz Intel Pentium M "Banias" CPU. The second revision includes models PCG-X505CP (Japan), VGN-X505ZP (USA), VGN-X505VP (Europe) and VGN-X505AP (Asia, Oceania, South Africa) and uses 1.1GHz Intel Pentium M "Banias" CPU.

[[File:PCG-X505 .jpg|alt=PCG-X505 |thumb|PCG-X505[[File:X505 Inside.png|thumb|PCG-X505 inside]]]]

== Daily usage today ==
While extremely advanced for its time back in 2004, the X505 is, nowadays, almost completely useless. Its processor is, when compared to other laptops of its time, slower, the graphics are weaker, and the RAM is not upgradeable (even though it is enough for light usage like text editing or even importing videos from the i.Link S400 port). The little, 1.8" HDD will also not help things out (it uses the same compact IDE interface as Apple's iPods, so spares are easy and cheap to find, as well as flash modding solutions). The tiny keyboard will not add anything positive to the overall user experience.

Overall, the PCG-X505 can only be recommended as a collectors item, and a rather expensive one as well.

== Resources ==

===== Recovery Discs =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-X505/P, PCG-X505/SP
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio-x505-winxp-japan-factory-recovery-cds Internet Archive]
|}

===== Hard Drive Images =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-X505
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio-x505-winxp-japan-factory-recovery-cds Internet Archive]
|-
|PCG-X505CP (Unofficial)
|[https://archive.org/details/pcg-x505cp-hdd-image-rus Internet Archive]
|-
|VGN-X505ZP
|[https://archive.org/details/vgn-x505zp-hdd-image Internet Archive]
|}

===== Disassembly Guide =====
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AnK7tfd69ZU Sony VAIO PCG-X505 Disassembly Video Guide]

[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lgfsA6IWK1E Another Sony VAIO PCG-X505 Disassembly Video Guide]

==Downloads==
Follow our [[Drivers Downloading Guides|guides]] to download and install drivers.

==Credits==
[https://sony.com Sony]

PCG-X505

2026-03-10T22:50:20Z

Resident007: Fixed some typos, added a picture of the insides

{{Infobox Specs
| name = PCG-X505
| image = 10 PCG-X505 .1391682306.jpg
| subtitle = PCG-X505 from front
| series = 505 series
| rel = 2003 (Japan), 2004 (Worldwide)
| cpu = Intel Pentium M ULV "Banias" 1.0/1.1GHz
| gpu = Intel 855GME with up to 64MB VRAM (allocated from RAM)
| chipset = Intel 855GME
| memory = 512MB DDR SDRAM (soldered, non-upgradable)
| display = 10.4" 1024x768 (XGA) TFT panel, 4:3
| storage = 1.8" HDD (compact IDE, iPod-compatible)
| audio = SoundMAX AC'97 compatible
| ports = 1x Type II PC Card slot; 1x Sony i.Link S400 (IEEE 1394/FireWire 400 4-pin); 2x USB 2.0
| connectivity = 802.11 a/b/g wireless (via included PCMCIA card)
| os = Microsoft Windows XP Professional
| weight = 860g (1.85lbs)
| size = 260 × 208 × 21mm (approx.)
| battery = ~3h (2h 57min tested by NotebookReview.com)
| msrp = $2999.99 US (SonyStyle.com)
}}

[[File:PCG-X505 from side.jpg|alt=PCG-X505 from side|thumb|PCG-X505 from side]]
The VAIO PCG-X505 was a high-end, thin and light, "ultraportable" laptop computer released by Sony worldwide in 2004 (with a Japan-only release in 2003). It was marketed as an "Extreme 505" notebook, the last in the 505 series. It was the slimmest laptop available at the time and is still thought of as the "MacBook Air before the MacBook Air".

[[File:PCG-X505 marketing image.jpg|alt=PCG-X505 marketing image|thumb|PCG-X505 marketing image]]
It was highly praised for its cutting-edge thin design, its very low weight (only 860g - 1.85lb, achieved by using carbon fiber for the lid) and for the good performance that it still managed to achieve in spite of the very compact dimensions. It featured an Intel Ultra Low Voltage (ULV) "Banias" Pentium M clocked at 1.0 or 1.1GHz and Intel 855GME Graphics with up to 64MB of VRAM allocated from system RAM.

The original MSRP for its US release was 2999.99USD from the SonyStyle.com website. It shipped with Windows XP Professional.

Original Sony accessories for the laptop included a semi-rigid carrying case, a DVD-RW external unit powered by a special connector that slots inside the i.Link S400 port and a power outlet near said port and a PCMCIA wireless card.

[[File:PCG-X505 .jpg|alt=PCG-X505 |thumb|PCG-X505[[File:X505 Inside.png|thumb|PCG-X505 inside]]]]

== Daily usage today ==
While extremely advanced for its time back in 2004, the X505 is, nowadays, almost completely useless. Its processor is, when compared to other laptops of its time, slower, the graphics are weaker, and the RAM is not upgradeable (even though it is enough for light usage like text editing or even importing videos from the i.Link S400 port). The little, 1.8" HDD will also not help things out (it uses the same compact IDE interface as Apple's iPods, so spares are easy and cheap to find, as well as flash modding solutions). The tiny keyboard will not add anything positive to the overall user experience.

Overall, the PCG-X505 can only be recommended as a collectors item, and a rather expensive one as well.

== Resources ==

===== Recovery Discs =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-X505
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio-x505-winxp-japan-factory-recovery-cds Internet Archive]
|}

===== Hard Drive Images =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-X505
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio-x505-winxp-japan-factory-recovery-cds Internet Archive]
|}

===== Disassembly Guide =====
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AnK7tfd69ZU Sony VAIO PCG-X505 Disassembly Video Guide]

[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lgfsA6IWK1E Another Sony VAIO PCG-X505 Disassembly Video Guide]

==Downloads==
Follow our [[Drivers Downloading Guides|guides]] to download and install drivers.

==Credits==
[https://sony.com Sony]

File:X505 Inside.png

2026-03-10T22:48:29Z

Resident007:

A look at the insides of the PCG-X505.

PCG-X505

2026-02-16T23:16:02Z

Resident007:

{{Infobox Specs
| name = PCG-X505
| image = 10 PCG-X505 .1391682306.jpg
| subtitle = PCG-X505 from front
| series = 505 series
| rel = 2003 (Japan), 2004 (Worldwide)
| cpu = Intel Pentium M ULV "Dothan" 1.0/1.1GHz
| gpu = Intel 855GME with 64MB VRAM
| chipset = Intel 855GME
| memory = DDR SDRAM (soldered, non-upgradable)
| display = 10.4" 1024x768 (XGA) TFT panel, 4:3
| storage = 1.8" HDD (compact IDE, iPod-compatible)
| audio = Intel AC'97 compatible
| ports = 1x Type II PC Card slot; 1x Sony i.Link S400 (IEEE 1394/FireWire 400 4-pin); 2x USB 2.0
| connectivity = 802.11 a/b/g wireless (via included PCMCIA card)
| os = Microsoft Windows XP Professional
| weight = 860g (1.85lbs)
| size = 260 × 208 × 21mm (approx.)
| battery = ~3h (2h 57min tested by NotebookReview.com)
| msrp = $2999.99 US (SonyStyle.com)
}}

[[File:PCG-X505 from side.jpg|alt=PCG-X505 from side|thumb|PCG-X505 from side]]
The VAIO PCG-X505 was a high-end, thin and light, "ultraportable" laptop computer released by Sony worldwide in 2004 (with a Japan-only release in 2003). It was marketed as an "Extreme 505" notebook, the last in the 505 series. It was the slimmest laptop available at the time and is still thought of as the "MacBook Air before the MacBook Air".

[[File:PCG-X505 marketing image.jpg|alt=PCG-X505 marketing image|thumb|PCG-X505 marketing image]]
It was highly praised for its cutting-edge thin design, its very low weight (only 860g - 1.85lb, achieved by using carbon fiber for the lid) and for the good performance that it still managed to achieve in spite of the very compact dimensions. It featured an Intel Ultra Low Voltage (ULV) "Dothan" Pentium M clocked at 1.0 or 1.1GHz and Intel 855GME Graphics with 64MB of VRAM.

The original MSRP for its US release was 2999.99USD from the SonyStyle.com website. It shipped with Windows XP Professional.

Original Sony accessories for the laptop included a semi-rigid carrying case, a DVD-RW external unit powered by a special connector that slots inside the i.Link S400 port and a power outlet near said port and a PCMCIA wireless card.

[[File:PCG-X505 .jpg|alt=PCG-X505 |thumb|PCG-X505 ]]

== Daily usage today ==
While extremely advanced for its time back in 2004, the X505 is, nowadays, almost completely useless. Its processor is, when compared to other laptops of its time, slower, the graphics are weaker, and the RAM is not upgradeable (even though it is enough for light usage like text editing or even importing videos from the i.Link S400 port). The little, 1.8" HDD will also not help things out (it uses the same compact IDE interface as Apple's iPods, so spares are easy and cheap to find, as well as flash modding solutions). The tiny keyboard will not add anything positive to the overall user experience.

Overall, the PCG-X505 can only be recommended as a collectors item, and a rather expensive one as well.

== Resources ==

===== Recovery Discs =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-X505
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio-x505-winxp-japan-factory-recovery-cds Internet Archive]
|}

===== Hard Drive Images =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-X505
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio-x505-winxp-japan-factory-recovery-cds Internet Archive]
|}

===== Disassembly Guide =====
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AnK7tfd69ZU Sony VAIO PCG-X505 Disassembly Video Guide]

[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lgfsA6IWK1E Another Sony VAIO PCG-X505 Disassembly Video Guide]

==Downloads==
Follow our [[Drivers Downloading Guides|guides]] to download and install drivers.

==Credits==
[https://sony.com Sony]

PCG-F

2025-09-10T16:21:55Z

Resident007: /* Detailed Specs */

[[File:PCG-F590K.png|thumb|PCG-F590K from 2000, the top of the range]]

==Overview==
The Sony VAIO PCG-F are a series of high-range notebooks released by Sony between February 1999 and November 2000.

One of the best models of the 1999-2000 lineup, they have a 13", 14.1" (rarer), 15" 1024x768 or a 15<nowiki>''</nowiki> 1400x1050 display, with an active or passive matrix.

The PCG-F's case was made of grey and light blue plastic. They were acclaimed upon their release because of their style and portability.[[File:PCG-F180.png|thumb|PCG-F180 from 1999]]

They had one of the most powerful CPUs and GPUs of the market, that made them true replacements to a desktop, a true evolution for those years. In fact, they were shipped with many audio and video editing programs, like Adobe Premiere and Sonic Foundry Sound Forge.

On the other hand, they were very difficult to buy outside the United States and Japan, increasing an already very high price.

The battery quality and duration were very good for those years, even if the notebooks' weight were more than 1kg less than the direct competitors.

They were made for two years, the main difference between those was that the 1999 ones had a Pentium II processor, while the 2000 versions had a Pentium III.

Sony made many variations of it, changing the CPUs' clock speed.
==Detailed Specs==
'''Processor''': Pentium II 300 MHz, 333 MHz, 366 MHz (1999 version); Pentium III 500 MHz, 600 MHz, 650 MHz, 750 MHz, 850 MHz (2000 version)

'''Graphics''': NeoMagic MagicMedia 256AV with with 2.5 MB VRAM or ATI Rage M1 with 8MB VRAM

'''RAM''': 32 or 64 MB (expandable respectively to 160 MB and 192 MB, 1999 version); 128 MB SDRAM (expandable to 256 MB, 2000 version)

'''Display''': 13" or 14.1" or 15" XGA 1024x768 or 1400x1050 with HPA or TFT LCD screen

'''Storage''': 2.5" ATA

'''Battery''': Lithium-Ion battery that supports dual battery operation when the floppy drive is removed

'''Weight''': 3.3 kg / 116.4 oz / 7.3 pounds

'''Original OS''': Windows 98; Windows ME; Windows 2000 (models with "K" suffix)
[[File:Pcgf540k data sheet.png|thumb|Data sheet of a PCG-F540K, shipped with Windows 2000]]

==Daily Usage Today==
These devices, due to their specs, cannot handle web browsing or running modern programs today.

They can be used, on the other hand, to write text (they were shipped with Microsoft Office), play old games, or to import, convert, and edit very old photo, video, or audio footages, maybe in order to convert them into a more modern format.
==Resources==

Follow our [[Drivers Downloading Guides|guides]] to download and install drivers.

===== Recovery Discs =====

[https://archive.org/details/pcg-f650k-recovery Sony VAIO PCG-F (PCG-F650K/F680K/F690K) Windows 2000 Recovery Discs]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-f-630-recovery-cd-1 Sony VAIO PCG-F (PCG-F630) Recovery Discs]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-f-540-drivers Sony VAIO PCG-F (PCG-F540) Drivers]

We do not know if these discs are model locked. See Compatibility Problems section in the [[Recovery Discs]] page.

These discs are not yet compatible with [[Sony VAIO Recovery Patcher (SVRP)|SVRP]].

===== Manuals and Useful Links =====

[https://www.sony.jp/products/Consumer/PCOM/PCG-F66/ Sony JP VAIO PCG-F Series Presentation Page]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/pcg-f/ Sony VAIO PCG-F Series '''Manuals and Specifications Directory''']

===== Disassembly Guide =====

[https://www.ifixit.com/Device/Sony_VAIO_PCG-933A Sony VAIO PCG-F Disassembly Guide]

If the link is broken, please input the URL in the [http://web.archive.org Wayback Machine].

==Sources==
[https://sony.com/ Sony] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/ Wikipedia]

PCG-F

2025-09-08T20:51:21Z

Resident007: /* Detailed Specs */ reverted ram change

[[File:PCG-F590K.png|thumb|PCG-F590K from 2000, the top of the range]]

==Overview==
The Sony VAIO PCG-F are a series of high-range notebooks released by Sony between February 1999 and November 2000.

One of the best models of the 1999-2000 lineup, they have a 13", 14.1" (rarer), 15" 1024x768 or a 15<nowiki>''</nowiki> 1400x1050 display, with an active or passive matrix.

The PCG-F's case was made of grey and light blue plastic. They were acclaimed upon their release because of their style and portability.[[File:PCG-F180.png|thumb|PCG-F180 from 1999]]

They had one of the most powerful CPUs and GPUs of the market, that made them true replacements to a desktop, a true evolution for those years. In fact, they were shipped with many audio and video editing programs, like Adobe Premiere and Sonic Foundry Sound Forge.

On the other hand, they were very difficult to buy outside the United States and Japan, increasing an already very high price.

The battery quality and duration were very good for those years, even if the notebooks' weight were more than 1kg less than the direct competitors.

They were made for two years, the main difference between those was that the 1999 ones had a Pentium II processor, while the 2000 versions had a Pentium III.

Sony made many variations of it, changing the CPUs' clock speed.
==Detailed Specs==
'''Processor''': Pentium II 300 MHz, 333 MHz, 366 MHz (1999 version); Pentium III 500 MHz, 600 MHz, 650 MHz, 750 MHz, 850 MHz (2000 version)

'''Graphics''': NeoMagic MagicMedia 256AV with with 2.5 MB VRAM or ATI Rage with 8MB VRAM

'''RAM''': 32 or 64 MB (expandable respectively to 160 MB and 192 MB, 1999 version); 128 MB SDRAM (expandable to 256 MB, 2000 version)

'''Display''': 13" or 14.1" or 15" XGA 1024x768 or 1400x1050 with HPA or TFT LCD screen

'''Storage''': 2.5" ATA

'''Battery''': Lithium-Ion battery that supports dual battery operation when the floppy drive is removed

'''Weight''': 3.3 kg / 116.4 oz / 7.3 pounds

'''Original OS''': Windows 98; Windows ME; Windows 2000 (models with "K" suffix)
[[File:Pcgf540k data sheet.png|thumb|Data sheet of a PCG-F540K, shipped with Windows 2000]]

==Daily Usage Today==
These devices, due to their specs, cannot handle web browsing or running modern programs today.

They can be used, on the other hand, to write text (they were shipped with Microsoft Office), play old games, or to import, convert, and edit very old photo, video, or audio footages, maybe in order to convert them into a more modern format.
==Resources==

Follow our [[Drivers Downloading Guides|guides]] to download and install drivers.

===== Recovery Discs =====

[https://archive.org/details/pcg-f650k-recovery Sony VAIO PCG-F (PCG-F650K/F680K/F690K) Windows 2000 Recovery Discs]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-f-630-recovery-cd-1 Sony VAIO PCG-F (PCG-F630) Recovery Discs]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-f-540-drivers Sony VAIO PCG-F (PCG-F540) Drivers]

We do not know if these discs are model locked. See Compatibility Problems section in the [[Recovery Discs]] page.

These discs are not yet compatible with [[Sony VAIO Recovery Patcher (SVRP)|SVRP]].

===== Manuals and Useful Links =====

[https://www.sony.jp/products/Consumer/PCOM/PCG-F66/ Sony JP VAIO PCG-F Series Presentation Page]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/pcg-f/ Sony VAIO PCG-F Series '''Manuals and Specifications Directory''']

===== Disassembly Guide =====

[https://www.ifixit.com/Device/Sony_VAIO_PCG-933A Sony VAIO PCG-F Disassembly Guide]

If the link is broken, please input the URL in the [http://web.archive.org Wayback Machine].

==Sources==
[https://sony.com/ Sony] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/ Wikipedia]

PCG-F

2025-09-02T14:04:18Z

Resident007: /* Recovery Discs */

[[File:PCG-F590K.png|thumb|PCG-F590K from 2000, the top of the range]]

==Overview==
The Sony VAIO PCG-F are a series of high-range notebooks released by Sony between February 1999 and November 2000.

One of the best models of the 1999-2000 lineup, they have a 13", 14.1" (rarer), 15" 1024x768 or a 15<nowiki>''</nowiki> 1400x1050 display, with an active or passive matrix.

Made mostly of brushed aluminum, in grey and light blue, they were acclaimed upon their release because of their style and portability.[[File:PCG-F180.png|thumb|PCG-F180 from 1999]]

They had one of the most powerful CPUs and GPUs of the market, that made them true replacements to a desktop, a true evolution for those years. In fact, they were shipped with many audio and video editing programs, like Adobe Premiere and Sonic Foundry Sound Forge.

On the other hand, they were very difficult to buy outside the United States and Japan, increasing an already very high price.

The battery quality and duration were very good for those years, even if the notebooks' weight were more than 1kg less than the direct competitors.

They were made for two years, the main difference between those was that the 1999 ones had a Pentium II processor, while the 2000 versions had a Pentium III.

Sony made many variations of it, changing the CPUs' clock speed.
==Detailed Specs==
'''Processor''': Pentium II 300 MHz, 333 MHz, 366 MHz (1999 version); Pentium III 500 MHz, 600 MHz, 650 MHz, 750 MHz, 850 MHz (2000 version)

'''Graphics''': NeoMagic MagicMedia 256AV with with 2.5 MB VRAM or ATI Rage with 8MB VRAM

'''RAM''': 32 or 64 MB (expandable respectively to 160 MB and 192 MB, 1999 version); 128 MB SDRAM (expandable to 256 MB, 2000 version); 256 MB SDRAM

'''Display''': 13" or 14.1" or 15" XGA 1024x768 or 1400x1050 with HPA or TFT LCD screen

'''Storage''': 2.5" ATA

'''Battery''': Lithium-Ion battery that supports dual battery operation when the floppy drive is removed

'''Weight''': 3.3 kg / 116.4 oz / 7.3 pounds

'''Original OS''': Windows 98; Windows ME; Windows 2000 (models with "K" suffix)
[[File:Pcgf540k data sheet.png|thumb|Data sheet of a PCG-F540K, shipped with Windows 2000]]

==Daily Usage Today==
These devices, due to their specs, cannot handle web browsing or running modern programs today.

They can be used, on the other hand, to write text (they were shipped with Microsoft Office), play old games, or to import, convert, and edit very old photo, video, or audio footages, maybe in order to convert them into a more modern format.
==Resources==

Follow our [[Drivers Downloading Guides|guides]] to download and install drivers.

===== Recovery Discs =====

[https://archive.org/details/pcg-f650k-recovery Sony VAIO PCG-F (PCG-F650K/F680K/F690K) Windows 2000 Recovery Discs]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-f-630-recovery-cd-1 Sony VAIO PCG-F (PCG-F630) Recovery Discs]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-f-540-drivers Sony VAIO PCG-F (PCG-F540) Drivers]

We do not know if these discs are model locked. See Compatibility Problems section in the [[Recovery Discs]] page.

These discs are not yet compatible with [[Sony VAIO Recovery Patcher (SVRP)|SVRP]].

===== Manuals and Useful Links =====

[https://www.sony.jp/products/Consumer/PCOM/PCG-F66/ Sony JP VAIO PCG-F Series Presentation Page]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/pcg-f/ Sony VAIO PCG-F Series '''Manuals and Specifications Directory''']

===== Disassembly Guide =====

[https://www.ifixit.com/Device/Sony_VAIO_PCG-933A Sony VAIO PCG-F Disassembly Guide]

If the link is broken, please input the URL in the [http://web.archive.org Wayback Machine].

==Sources==
[https://sony.com/ Sony] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/ Wikipedia]

PCG-F

2025-09-02T13:09:57Z

Resident007: /* Detailed Specs */

[[File:PCG-F590K.png|thumb|PCG-F590K from 2000, the top of the range]]

==Overview==
The Sony VAIO PCG-F are a series of high-range notebooks released by Sony between February 1999 and November 2000.

One of the best models of the 1999-2000 lineup, they have a 13", 14.1" (rarer), 15" 1024x768 or a 15<nowiki>''</nowiki> 1400x1050 display, with an active or passive matrix.

Made mostly of brushed aluminum, in grey and light blue, they were acclaimed upon their release because of their style and portability.[[File:PCG-F180.png|thumb|PCG-F180 from 1999]]

They had one of the most powerful CPUs and GPUs of the market, that made them true replacements to a desktop, a true evolution for those years. In fact, they were shipped with many audio and video editing programs, like Adobe Premiere and Sonic Foundry Sound Forge.

On the other hand, they were very difficult to buy outside the United States and Japan, increasing an already very high price.

The battery quality and duration were very good for those years, even if the notebooks' weight were more than 1kg less than the direct competitors.

They were made for two years, the main difference between those was that the 1999 ones had a Pentium II processor, while the 2000 versions had a Pentium III.

Sony made many variations of it, changing the CPUs' clock speed.
==Detailed Specs==
'''Processor''': Pentium II 300 MHz, 333 MHz, 366 MHz (1999 version); Pentium III 500 MHz, 600 MHz, 650 MHz, 750 MHz, 850 MHz (2000 version)

'''Graphics''': NeoMagic MagicMedia 256AV with with 2.5 MB VRAM or ATI Rage with 8MB VRAM

'''RAM''': 32 or 64 MB (expandable respectively to 160 MB and 192 MB, 1999 version); 128 MB SDRAM (expandable to 256 MB, 2000 version); 256 MB SDRAM

'''Display''': 13" or 14.1" or 15" XGA 1024x768 or 1400x1050 with HPA or TFT LCD screen

'''Storage''': 2.5" ATA

'''Battery''': Lithium-Ion battery that supports dual battery operation when the floppy drive is removed

'''Weight''': 3.3 kg / 116.4 oz / 7.3 pounds

'''Original OS''': Windows 98; Windows ME; Windows 2000 (models with "K" suffix)
[[File:Pcgf540k data sheet.png|thumb|Data sheet of a PCG-F540K, shipped with Windows 2000]]

==Daily Usage Today==
These devices, due to their specs, cannot handle web browsing or running modern programs today.

They can be used, on the other hand, to write text (they were shipped with Microsoft Office), play old games, or to import, convert, and edit very old photo, video, or audio footages, maybe in order to convert them into a more modern format.
==Resources==

Follow our [[Drivers Downloading Guides|guides]] to download and install drivers.

===== Recovery Discs =====

[https://archive.org/details/pcg-f650k-recovery Sony VAIO PCG-F (PCG-F650K/F680K/F690K) Windows 2000 Recovery Discs]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-f-630-recovery-cd-1 Sony VAIO PCG-F (PCG-F630) Recovery Discs]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-f-540-drivers Sony VAIO PCG-F (PCG-F540) Recovery Discs]

We do not know if these discs are model locked. See Compatibility Problems section in the [[Recovery Discs]] page.

These discs are not yet compatible with [[Sony VAIO Recovery Patcher (SVRP)|SVRP]].

===== Manuals and Useful Links =====

[https://www.sony.jp/products/Consumer/PCOM/PCG-F66/ Sony JP VAIO PCG-F Series Presentation Page]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/pcg-f/ Sony VAIO PCG-F Series '''Manuals and Specifications Directory''']

===== Disassembly Guide =====

[https://www.ifixit.com/Device/Sony_VAIO_PCG-933A Sony VAIO PCG-F Disassembly Guide]

If the link is broken, please input the URL in the [http://web.archive.org Wayback Machine].

==Sources==
[https://sony.com/ Sony] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/ Wikipedia]

PCG-F

2025-09-02T13:09:15Z

Resident007: /* Overview */

[[File:PCG-F590K.png|thumb|PCG-F590K from 2000, the top of the range]]

==Overview==
The Sony VAIO PCG-F are a series of high-range notebooks released by Sony between February 1999 and November 2000.

One of the best models of the 1999-2000 lineup, they have a 13", 14.1" (rarer), 15" 1024x768 or a 15<nowiki>''</nowiki> 1400x1050 display, with an active or passive matrix.

Made mostly of brushed aluminum, in grey and light blue, they were acclaimed upon their release because of their style and portability.[[File:PCG-F180.png|thumb|PCG-F180 from 1999]]

They had one of the most powerful CPUs and GPUs of the market, that made them true replacements to a desktop, a true evolution for those years. In fact, they were shipped with many audio and video editing programs, like Adobe Premiere and Sonic Foundry Sound Forge.

On the other hand, they were very difficult to buy outside the United States and Japan, increasing an already very high price.

The battery quality and duration were very good for those years, even if the notebooks' weight were more than 1kg less than the direct competitors.

They were made for two years, the main difference between those was that the 1999 ones had a Pentium II processor, while the 2000 versions had a Pentium III.

Sony made many variations of it, changing the CPUs' clock speed.
==Detailed Specs==
'''Processor''': Pentium II 300 MHz, 333 MHz, 366 MHz (1999 version); Pentium III 500 MHz, 600 MHz, 650 MHz, 750 MHz, 850 MHz (2000 version)

'''Graphics''': NeoMagic MagicMedia 256AV with with 2.5 MB VRAM or ATI Rage with 8MB VRAM

'''RAM''': 32 or 64 MB (expandable respectively to 160 MB and 192 MB, 1999 version); 128 MB SDRAM (expandable to 256 MB, 2000 version)

'''Display''': 13" or 14.1" or 15" XGA 1024x768 with HPA or TFT LCD screen

'''Storage''': 2.5" ATA

'''Battery''': Lithium-Ion battery that supports dual battery operation when the floppy drive is removed

'''Weight''': 3.3 kg / 116.4 oz / 7.3 pounds

'''Original OS''': Windows 98; Windows ME; Windows 2000 (models with "K" suffix)
[[File:Pcgf540k data sheet.png|thumb|Data sheet of a PCG-F540K, shipped with Windows 2000]]

==Daily Usage Today==
These devices, due to their specs, cannot handle web browsing or running modern programs today.

They can be used, on the other hand, to write text (they were shipped with Microsoft Office), play old games, or to import, convert, and edit very old photo, video, or audio footages, maybe in order to convert them into a more modern format.
==Resources==

Follow our [[Drivers Downloading Guides|guides]] to download and install drivers.

===== Recovery Discs =====

[https://archive.org/details/pcg-f650k-recovery Sony VAIO PCG-F (PCG-F650K/F680K/F690K) Windows 2000 Recovery Discs]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-f-630-recovery-cd-1 Sony VAIO PCG-F (PCG-F630) Recovery Discs]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-f-540-drivers Sony VAIO PCG-F (PCG-F540) Recovery Discs]

We do not know if these discs are model locked. See Compatibility Problems section in the [[Recovery Discs]] page.

These discs are not yet compatible with [[Sony VAIO Recovery Patcher (SVRP)|SVRP]].

===== Manuals and Useful Links =====

[https://www.sony.jp/products/Consumer/PCOM/PCG-F66/ Sony JP VAIO PCG-F Series Presentation Page]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/pcg-f/ Sony VAIO PCG-F Series '''Manuals and Specifications Directory''']

===== Disassembly Guide =====

[https://www.ifixit.com/Device/Sony_VAIO_PCG-933A Sony VAIO PCG-F Disassembly Guide]

If the link is broken, please input the URL in the [http://web.archive.org Wayback Machine].

==Sources==
[https://sony.com/ Sony] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/ Wikipedia]

PCG-F

2025-09-02T12:16:44Z

Resident007: /* Detailed Specs */

[[File:PCG-F590K.png|thumb|PCG-F590K from 2000, the top of the range]]

==Overview==
The Sony VAIO PCG-F are a series of high-range notebooks released by Sony between February 1999 and November 2000.

One of the best models of the 1999-2000 lineup, they have a 13", 14.1" (rarer), or a 15" 1024x768 display, with an active-matrix or passive-matrix display.

Made mostly of brushed aluminum, in grey and light blue, they were acclaimed upon their release because of their style and portability.[[File:PCG-F180.png|thumb|PCG-F180 from 1999]]

They had one of the most powerful CPUs and GPUs of the market, that made them true replacements to a desktop, a true evolution for those years. In fact, they were shipped with many audio and video editing programs, like Adobe Premiere and Sonic Foundry Sound Forge.

On the other hand, they were very difficult to buy outside the United States and Japan, increasing an already very high price.

The battery quality and duration were very good for those years, even if the notebooks' weight were more than 1kg less than the direct competitors.

They were made for two years, the main difference between those was that the 1999 ones had a Pentium II processor, while the 2000 versions had a Pentium III.

Sony made many variations of it, changing the CPUs' clock speed.
==Detailed Specs==
'''Processor''': Pentium II 300 MHz, 333 MHz, 366 MHz (1999 version); Pentium III 500 MHz, 600 MHz, 650 MHz, 750 MHz, 850 MHz (2000 version)

'''Graphics''': NeoMagic MagicMedia 256AV with with 2.5 MB VRAM or ATI Rage with 8MB VRAM

'''RAM''': 32 or 64 MB (expandable respectively to 160 MB and 192 MB, 1999 version); 128 MB SDRAM (expandable to 256 MB, 2000 version)

'''Display''': 13" or 14.1" or 15" XGA 1024x768 with HPA or TFT LCD screen

'''Storage''': 2.5" ATA

'''Battery''': Lithium-Ion battery that supports dual battery operation when the floppy drive is removed

'''Weight''': 3.3 kg / 116.4 oz / 7.3 pounds

'''Original OS''': Windows 98; Windows ME; Windows 2000 (models with "K" suffix)
[[File:Pcgf540k data sheet.png|thumb|Data sheet of a PCG-F540K, shipped with Windows 2000]]

==Daily Usage Today==
These devices, due to their specs, cannot handle web browsing or running modern programs today.

They can be used, on the other hand, to write text (they were shipped with Microsoft Office), play old games, or to import, convert, and edit very old photo, video, or audio footages, maybe in order to convert them into a more modern format.
==Resources==

Follow our [[Drivers Downloading Guides|guides]] to download and install drivers.

===== Recovery Discs =====

[https://archive.org/details/pcg-f650k-recovery Sony VAIO PCG-F (PCG-F650K/F680K/F690K) Windows 2000 Recovery Discs]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-f-630-recovery-cd-1 Sony VAIO PCG-F (PCG-F630) Recovery Discs]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-f-540-drivers Sony VAIO PCG-F (PCG-F540) Recovery Discs]

We do not know if these discs are model locked. See Compatibility Problems section in the [[Recovery Discs]] page.

These discs are not yet compatible with [[Sony VAIO Recovery Patcher (SVRP)|SVRP]].

===== Manuals and Useful Links =====

[https://www.sony.jp/products/Consumer/PCOM/PCG-F66/ Sony JP VAIO PCG-F Series Presentation Page]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/pcg-f/ Sony VAIO PCG-F Series '''Manuals and Specifications Directory''']

===== Disassembly Guide =====

[https://www.ifixit.com/Device/Sony_VAIO_PCG-933A Sony VAIO PCG-F Disassembly Guide]

If the link is broken, please input the URL in the [http://web.archive.org Wayback Machine].

==Sources==
[https://sony.com/ Sony] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/ Wikipedia]

PCG-C2GPS

2025-07-25T20:08:38Z

Resident007: /* Overview */

{{Infobox Specs
| name = PCG-C2GPS
| image = PCG-C2GPS hq.png
| subtitle = PCG-C2GPS
| series = Subnotebook
| rel = November 1999
| cpu = Intel Pentium II 266 MHz
| gpu = NeoMagic MagicMedia256AV (NM2200)
| chipset = Intel 440BX
| memory = 64 MB
| storage = 8.1 GB IDE HDD
| display = 8.9" Ultra-Wide XGA 1024×480 reflective polysilicon TFT
| os = Microsoft Windows 98 SE
| weight = 960 g
| size = 248 × 153 × 24 mm
| battery = Small: 2.5 h Large: 5.5 h Extra Large: 11 h
| connectivity = 56 kbps modem Infrared port USB 1× i.LINK port PC Card slot
| features = Handy GPS receiver (512 KB memory) External backlight unit Jog Dial
| msrp = JP¥300,000 (~ €1,900)
| units = 5,000
|audio=Yamaha DS-XG YMF744 (Sound Blaster & MPU-401 MIDI compatible)}}

[[File:PCG-C2GPS hq.png|thumb|304x304px|PCG-C2GPS]]

== Overview ==
The Sony VAIO PCG-C2GPS was a Japan exclusive subnotebook released by Sony in November 1999. It wasn't supposed to be a successor to the PCG-C1 but more of a revision, being based on the PCG-C1XE.

The PCG-C2GPS was gray and made out of metal and plastic, with purple battery and mouse buttons, and featured generally the same build quality as the PCG-C1XE, apart from the display which is totally different.
[[File:PCG-C2GPS light.png|thumb|403x403px|PCG-C2GPS with Backlight]]
It was aimed at navigation and being a device that could be taken outside, due to its reflective polysilicon TFT display. Instead of having a traditional backlight, this display uses external light as a light source, which means that it can be seen even in direct sunlight. There was an attachable backlight unit that "clipped" onto the back of the display unit and made the it visible in the dark. PCG-C2GPS, [[PCG-U|PCG-U101]] and [[VGN-U]] are the only Sony VAIO devices to be able to use external light as a light source.

Sony wanted the PCG-C2GPS to be used for navigation in the car and on foot and included a "Handy GPS Receiver", which had the ability to be used separately with an AA battery or with the unit via USB power. It could record location information at regular intervals to the built-in 512KB memory in the receiver by pressing the "Mark" button, which could've been used to show where you had previously been on the map.[[File:C2gps backlight behind display.png|thumb|PCG-C2GPS with Backlight behind display]]The rotating camera from the PCG-C1 series was removed and the bottom bezel of the display was increased in size. The PCG-C2GPS is slightly lighter than the PCG-C1XE, due to the thinner screen and lid and due to the removal of the camera which allowed for less moving parts on the top bezel.

Being a VAIO, this laptop came with a plethora of Sony software, including special navigation software and many others, such as: NavinYou’, BatteryScope, DVgate, PictureGear, etc.

The NavinYou software was used as a navigation software, using the Handy GPS receiver for GPS.

The starting price was around JP¥300'000 (around 1900€), with only one model launched, presumably due to it having mediocre success.

There were 5000 PCG-C2GPS units made, making it a very rare collector's item nowadays. [[File:Gps reciever.png|thumb|293x293px|Handy GPS Receiver]]

== Daily Usage Today ==
Today, the PCG-C2GPS is a collector's item, and is not particularly useful, apart from office tasks. Retro gaming and other tasks are almost impossible.

It could still be used as a navigation device, as there is no reason for it not to work anymore. But good luck getting the software, and the device itself in the first place.

== Resources ==
If a link is broken, please input the URL in the [http://web.archive.org/ Wayback Machine].

==== Recovery Discs ====
Recovery discs are not available for this series. We are currently trying our best to find them. If you have some recovery discs available, please archive them and send them to us!

==== Manuals and Useful Links ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+Manuals
|-
| PCG-C2GPS Manual || [https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-c2gps-Manual PCG-C2GPS Manual]
|-
| Driver installation guides || [[Drivers Downloading Guides|Follow our driver installation guides]]
|}

{| class="wikitable"
|+'''Presentation Pages'''
|-
| PCG-C2GPS Infosheet || [https://www.sony.jp/ProductsPark/Consumer/PCOM/PCG-C2GPS/ PCG-C2GPS Infosheet]
|-
| Inversenet specs || [https://www.inversenet.co.jp/pclist/product/SONY-note/PCG%252DC2GPS.html PCG-C2GPS Specifications]
|-
| Sony press release || [https://www.sony.jp/CorporateCruise/Press/199911/99-1104/ PCG-C2GPS Press Release]
|}

==== Guides ====
{| class="wikitable"
|-
| PCG-C2GPS Disassembly Guide || [https://home-repair.ipwo.jp/%E3%83%93%E3%83%B3%E3%83%86%E3%83%BC%E3%82%B8%E7%89%A9vaio-%E6%98%94%E3%81%AEpc%E3%82%92%E8%A3%8F%E5%88%87%E3%82%8A%E3%81%97%E3%81%A6msata-ssd%E3%82%92%E7%9D%80%E8%84%B1%E5%BC%8F%E3%81%AB%E3%80%82/ Sony VAIO PCG-C2GPS Disassembly Guide]
|}

==== Community & Videos ====
{| class="wikitable"
|+
|-
| Forum post || [https://www.cnvintage.org/d/118-sony-vaio-c1 Forum post on CNVintage]
|-
| PC Watch article || [https://pc.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/article/991104/sony.htm PC Watch write-up]
|-
| Video in action || [https://old.reddit.com/r/retrobattlestations/comments/18ysq7y/vaio_pcgc2gps/ Reddit video of the PCG-C2GPS in use]
|}

== Credits ==
[https://sony.com Sony]

VGN-AR

2025-07-06T18:27:47Z

Resident007: /* Resources */

==Overview==
[[File:Sony Vaio VGN-AR.jpg|alt=A Sony Vaio VGN-AR51m with its original stickers|thumb|389x389px|VGN-AR with its original stickers]]
The Sony VAIO VGN-AR Series, released in 2006, was designed to tackle the desktop replacement segment. As usual for VAIO desktop replacements, the VGN-AR was equipped with powerful hardware and many multimedia features, which makes it a high-end and expensive laptop.

At launch the full-spec VGN-AR was the first laptop to be offered with a Blu-Ray optical drive, and also featured a 17" dual-lamp CCFL 16:10 screen, which could be had in either 1440x900 for lower-end models or 1920x1200 for the higher-end offerings. Something that Sony complemented the AR with was an optional ATI TV Wonder Digital Cable Tuner or an internal TV Tuner, making for an excellent multimedia device (only on high-end models). This TV tuner also used a regular aerial jack, rather than the small MMCX connector found on the VGN-AW.

With a range of Intel Core 2 Duos, Core Duos and a Pentium Dual Core to choose from, as well as the choice between NVIDIA GeForce 7600 Go (for the earlier models), 8400M GT and 8600M GT GPUs, the VGN-AR had a lot to offer in terms of performance, making image and video editing, as well as gaming a simple enough task and suited customers at every price range. Sadly performance was hindered by only 2GB of RAM on most models, which could be upgraded to the maximum of 4GB or 8GB on the refreshed models. The refreshed VGN-AR with the Penryn line of CPUs and 8000 series NVIDIA GPUs can be identified by looking at the bezel, which will have a Sony logo instead of the glowing VAIO logo.

There are 2 models of the AR, the Premium and the regular model. Premium models can be identified by the glossy lid, bezel and chrome accents around the lower half, and have a 1920x1200 dual-lamp LCD and are typically equipped better, featuring TV tuners, dual hard drives and the top end GPUs and CPUs, however are more rare than the regular model. Regular models instead have a 1440x900 LCD and can be identified by the matt lid, matt bezel and silver accents around the lower half. These are far more common than the Premium models. However, unlike the VGN-AW, all models of the VGN-AR had the dual hard drive caddy installed, so you could get a regular AR and still have 2 hard drives installed.

All of this performance comes at a cost. With its weight of around 3,8 to 4,1 kg, the VGN-AR is quite heavy. Another negative is the small battery life between 1.5 and 3 hours. This is fine for a desktop replacement, but considered low for a laptop you would carry around. The speakers, for such an expensive media oriented laptop, are also not very good.

What the VGN-AR lacks, it makes up in connectivity, featuring a PCMCIA Type II, ExpressCard/54, 6-in-1 card reader ''(SD Card, Memory Stick, Memory Stick PRO, Memory Stick Duo, MagicGate)'', i.LINK 4-pin, HDMI, VGA, S-Video in/out, Modem, Ethernet and 3x 2.0 USB ports. Early versions of the AR even came with a docking connector which would give you even more ports. Besides the Blu-Ray-RW drive, the VGN-AR was also offered with a Blu-Ray-R or DVD+-R/DVD+-RW/DVD-RAM drive on the lower spec models. A webcam was included on all models.

In addition to the choice between Windows XP Media Center Edition (earlier models) and several Windows Vista versions, the VGN-AR came with a plethora of multimedia software, such as Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Reader, Microsoft Works and Microsoft Office 2007.

The VGN-AR was replaced by the [[VGN-AW]] and [[VGN-FW]] Series.

==Detailed Specs==
'''Processor:''' Intel Pentium M T2370 / Intel Core (2) Duo T2500, T5450, T7100, T7200, T7250, T7300, T7700, T8100, T8300, T9300

'''Graphics:''' NVIDIA GeForce 8400M GT, 8600M GT, Go 7600 or Go 7600 GT (earlier models)

'''Display:''' 17.1" CCFL 16:10 1440 x 900 WXGA+ (single or dual lamp) or 1920 x 1200 WUXGA dual-lamp on Premium models

'''RAM:''' 2x SO-DIMM DDR2 (upgradable to 4GB on early models or 8GB on Penryn refresh)

'''Storage:''' 2.5" SATA HDD, optional 2nd hard drive configured in RAID (high-end models)

'''OS:''' Windows XP Media Center Edition / Windows Vista Home Premium / Business / Ultimate

'''Weight:''' 3,8kg - 4,1kg

'''MSRP:''' 900€ - 3499€

==Problems==
The VGN-AR models equipped with the NVIDIA GeForce 8400M GT and 8600M GT all have a very unfortunate problem. The NVIDIA 8 series of GPUs are known for their 100% failure rate because of a manufacturing problem from NVIDIA, and the VGN-AR is not an exception to that. All NVIDIA 8 series chips on every single VGN-AR equipped with those GPUs are affected by this problem. Models equipped with the NVIDIA GeForce 7600 Go are not affected.

'''Symptoms of this problem are:'''

*Black screen when turning on the device (device is not booting up, it has not passed the power-on self-test)
*Artifacts on the display
*Not being able to successfully install GPU drivers
*Unable to boot into the operating system

There is no real permanent solution to this problem. One temporary solution would be a [[GPU reflow guide|reflow]], one more permanent but still temporary solution is a reball or chip replacement. However, all of these methods requires a precise hot air station, BGA No-Clean flux, and some experience (practicing on a junk board is a good start). If you are thinking of doing a chip replacement and you have a 8600M or 8400M GT version, NVIDIA did release a later revision of the chip that fixed the issue. This can be identified by a white underfill (gel border around the die) and usually have a date code after 0830. Some also have an odd digit at the end of the model number instead of an even digit (e.g. G84-603-A2 instead of G84-600-A2).

==Daily Usage Today ==
Thanks to its high-end hardware of the time, most VGN-AR models, especially the later Penryn models, are still quite usable today. Casual tasks such as web browsing and text editing are no problem for the large desktop replacement. Playing games from the time and modern 2D games should also be possible, especially if you have the later 8600M GT. Though modern 3D games will either not run at all, or run very badly.

==Resources==
[http://www.vaio.sony.co.jp/Products/AR1/ Sony JP VAIO VGN-AR Series Presentation Page]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/vgn-ar/vgn-ar_userguide.PDF Sony VAIO VGN-AR User Guide]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/vgn-ar/vgn-ar_startupguide.pdf Sony VAIO VGN-AR Startup Guide]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/vgn-ar/vgn-ar_recoveryguide.PDF Sony VAIO VGN-AR Recovery Guide]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/vgn-ar/vgn-ar_troubleshootingguide.PDF Sony VAIO VGN-AR Troubleshooting Guide]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/vgn-ar/vgn-ar_blueraydiskguide.pdf Sony VAIO VGN-AR BluRay Disc Guide]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/vgn-ar/vgn-ar_opticalinstructions.pdf Sony VAIO VGN-AR Optical Disk Drive Instructions]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/vgn-ar/vgn-ar_teardownguide.pdf Sony VAIO VGN-AR Teardown Guide]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/vgn-ar/vgn-ar_accessoriesguide.pdf Sony VAIO VGN-AR Accessories Guide Fall 2007]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/vgn-ar/vgn-ar550u_specssheet.pdf Sony VAIO VGN-AR550U Specsheet]

==Downloads==
[https://archive.org/details/disc-1_202207 Sony VAIO VGN-AR Series Recovery Discs and Drivers]

You can bypass the model checks of these discs by using [[Sony VAIO Recovery Patcher (SVRP)|SVRP]].

Follow our [[Drivers Downloading Guides|guides]] to download and install drivers.

==Sources==
[https://www.sony.com/en/ Sony], [https://specspro.net/laptops/6798-sony-vaio-vgn-ar31m/?currency=eur&country=de/ SpecsPro], [https://www.notebookcheck.net/Sony-Vaio-VGN-AR-Series.10626.0.html NotebookCheck], [https://fo-stage-03.icecat.biz/p/sony/vgn-ar61s/vaio-notebooks-vgn-ar61s-1371141.html icecat] and [[wikipedia:Sony_Vaio_AR_series|wikipedia]]

Pictures: [https://www.notebookcheck.net/Sony-Vaio-VGN-AR-Series.10626.0.html#lightbox-9 NotebookCheck]

PCG-F

2025-04-24T10:51:26Z

Resident007: /* Detailed Specs */ add ATI Rage to graphics (see PCG-F104K)

[[File:PCG-F590K.png|thumb|PCG-F590K from 2000, the top of the range]]

==Overview==
The Sony VAIO PCG-F are a series of high-range notebooks released by Sony between February 1999 and November 2000.

One of the best models of the 1999-2000 lineup, they have a 13", 14.1" (rarer), or a 15" 1024x768 display, with an active-matrix or passive-matrix display.

Made mostly of brushed aluminum, in grey and light blue, they were acclaimed upon their release because of their style and portability.[[File:PCG-F180.png|thumb|PCG-F180 from 1999]]

They had one of the most powerful CPUs and GPUs of the market, that made them true replacements to a desktop, a true evolution for those years. In fact, they were shipped with many audio and video editing programs, like Adobe Premiere and Sonic Foundry Sound Forge.

On the other hand, they were very difficult to buy outside the United States and Japan, increasing an already very high price.

The battery quality and duration were very good for those years, even if the notebooks' weight were more than 1kg less than the direct competitors.

They were made for two years, the main difference between those was that the 1999 ones had a Pentium II processor, while the 2000 versions had a Pentium III.

Sony made many variations of it, changing the CPUs' clock speed.
==Detailed Specs==
'''Processor''': Pentium II 300 MHz, 333 MHz, 366 MHz (1999 version); Pentium III 500 MHz, 600 MHz, 650 MHz, 750 MHz (2000 version)

'''Graphics''': NeoMagic MagicMedia 256AV with with 2.5 MB VRAM or ATI Rage with 8MB VRAM

'''RAM''': 32 or 64 MB (expandable respectively to 160 MB and 192 MB, 1999 version); 128 MB SDRAM (expandable to 256 MB, 2000 version)

'''Display''': 13" or 14.1" or 15" XGA 1024x768 with HPA or TFT LCD screen

'''Storage''': 2.5" ATA

'''Battery''': Lithium-Ion battery that supports dual battery operation when the floppy drive is removed

'''Weight''': 3.3 kg / 116.4 oz / 7.3 pounds

'''Original OS''': Windows 98; Windows 2000 (models with "K" suffix)
[[File:Pcgf540k data sheet.png|thumb|Data sheet of a PCG-F540K, shipped with Windows 2000]]

==Daily Usage Today==
These devices, due to their specs, cannot handle web browsing or running modern programs today.

They can be used, on the other hand, to write text (they were shipped with Microsoft Office), play old games, or to import, convert, and edit very old photo, video, or audio footages, maybe in order to convert them into a more modern format.
==Resources==

Follow our [[Drivers Downloading Guides|guides]] to download and install drivers.

===== Recovery Discs =====

[https://archive.org/details/pcg-f650k-recovery Sony VAIO PCG-F (PCG-F650K/F680K/F690K) Windows 2000 Recovery Discs]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-f-630-recovery-cd-1 Sony VAIO PCG-F (PCG-F630) Recovery Discs]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-f-540-drivers Sony VAIO PCG-F (PCG-F540) Recovery Discs]

We do not know if these discs are model locked. See Compatibility Problems section in the [[Recovery Discs]] page.

These discs are not yet compatible with [[Sony VAIO Recovery Patcher (SVRP)|SVRP]].

===== Manuals and Useful Links =====

[https://www.sony.jp/products/Consumer/PCOM/PCG-F66/ Sony JP VAIO PCG-F Series Presentation Page]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/pcg-f/ Sony VAIO PCG-F Series '''Manuals and Specifications Directory''']

===== Disassembly Guide =====

[https://www.ifixit.com/Device/Sony_VAIO_PCG-933A Sony VAIO PCG-F Disassembly Guide]

If the link is broken, please input the URL in the [http://web.archive.org Wayback Machine].

==Sources==
[https://sony.com/ Sony] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/ Wikipedia]

VPCP

2025-04-18T10:32:55Z

Resident007:

#REDIRECT [[P (VPCP)]]
This is a redirect page for P (VPCP).

__NOINDEX__
__NONEWSECTIONLINK__

VPCP

2025-04-18T10:31:00Z

Resident007: Initial commit

#REDIRECT [[P (VPCP)]]
This is a dummy redirect page.

VGN-Z

2025-04-03T14:49:01Z

Resident007: /* Daily Usage Today */

Currently WIP
[[File:VGN-Z Grey.jpg|thumb|VGN-Z in Grey]]

==Overview==
The Sony Vaio VGN-Z is a high-end laptop released by Sony in mid-2008. It was the second model in their flagship Z series, and also the spiritual successor to the VGN-SZ. It was intended to be a business machine that also offered enough performance to be a businessman's main computer.
[[File:VGN-Z Black jpeg.jpg|thumb|VGN-Z in Black]]
The laptop, being one of the first VAIO models released after the brand's repositioning in 2008 , featured Sony's iconic cylinder power button design, and was a major leap compared to Sony's past thin and light laptop, the VGN-SZ. The laptop came in 7 different colours which included 2 patterns, however only 2 for the palmrest (Grey and Black).

The VGN-Z featured an all-new dynamic graphics switching capability which allowed you to switch graphics without having to restart the laptop. Unfortunately, this means that standard drivers will not work on the laptop, and only the official Sony drivers will work. It also featured a 16:9 "X-black" LED display, a shift from the previous 16:10 panel.

The laptop is constructed with a carbon fiber body and lid and an aluminium palmrest. To compensate for the smaller vertical space due to the 16:9 display, the laptop had to use a 12 layer motherboard and separated functionality such as audio and WWAN into daughterboards to compact it as much as possible.

They offered a variety of optional extras, including a Blu-Ray drive, 1600x900 display and 2 64GB SSDs configured in RAID 0 offering a total of 128GB at extremely fast speeds. The SSDs are actually standard microSATA SSDs, so they can be upgraded quite cheaply and are also capable of using mSATA SSDs with an adapter, unlike the later designs which used a proprietary LIF connector. The laptop is also remarkable for being the first VAIO equipped with DDR3 RAM, the latest technology at the time.

The keyboard is a standard chiclet design, and is very good to type on. The speakers were also excellent, and the screen offers wide viewing angles and good colour. The battery life was moderate, lasting 3 hours in Stamina mode and 2 hours in Speed mode (Tested by Japanese review site PC Watch). For its small size, thermals are fairly good as well and the fans are quiet.

==Detailed Specs==
'''Processor:''' Intel® Core 2 Duo P8400/P8600/P9500/P9600/P9700/T9400/T9600/T9900 (socketed)

'''Graphics:''' Nvidia GeForce 9300M GS with 128MB (1366x768 models) or 256MB (1600x900 models) VRAM and Intel Graphics Media Accelerator X4500MHD

'''Chipset:''' Intel GM45 Express (1066MHz)

'''Memory:''' DDR3-1066MHz (8GB maximum)

'''Display:''' 13.1" 1600x900 or 1366x768 widescreen "X-Black" TFT LCD

'''Storage:''' 200-320GB 2.5" HDD or single/dual RAID 64GB microSATA SSD

'''Weight:''' Approximately 1.35kg (lightest model, models equipped with a HDD weigh more)

'''MSRP:''' Roughly £1500 or 275,800 yen (base model)

'''Battery:''' 5400mAh 6 cell battery (VGP-BPS12), optional 8100mAh extended 9 cell battery (VGP-BPL12),

'''Ports:''' 2x USB 2.0, i-Link S400 port, Headphone and Microphone jack, 56k modem, Gigabit Ethernet, ExpressCard slot, SD and Memory Stick slot, DVD drive or optional Blu-Ray drive, HDMI, VGA and docking station port (VGP-PRZ1)

'''Connectivity:''' Intel WiFi Link 5100 (802.11 a/b/g/n), Bluetooth 2.0 and optional 3G WWAN, FeliCa reader (Japan only)

'''Operating System:''' Windows Vista Business, later models shipped with Windows 7 Professional
==Daily Usage Today==
The VGN-Z is still a very capable machine today, allowing light browsing and word processing. Media consumption is also possible on this laptop, as it handles YouTube at 720p with no dropped frames. I would recommend installing h264ify, as this reduces load on the CPU and uses the built in H264 decoder. The 9300M GS graphics also helps with gaming being capable of running older or light games. Windows 10 is usable on this machine, however you must use the Windows 7 GPU driver and install all of the Vaio utilities to get proper GPU switching functionality, you are better off running Windows 7 for full functionality, as Sony released updated drivers designed for the OS. We would recommend upgrading to the maximum 8GB, thankfully it is DDR3 so it is cheap to get (£10 from AliExpress). Be aware that this laptop only accepts DDR3-1066 modules, higher speed modules do not work.

It is usually the cheapest of the Z series and the most common being sold worldwide and being popular enough that it was sold alongside the VPCZ1 until late 2009, however batteries are very hard to come by (there is only 1 listing on AliExpress as of writing this) and are very expensive. The usual spec you would find of this computer is the grey palmrest, 1600x900 display, hard drive and a P9500 or P9600, other models are quite rare (maybe not in Japan?).

In terms of repairability, the RAM is easily accessible behind a cover on the back, however if you want access to the hard drive you will need to remove the palmrest and if you need to repaste you will need to remove the motherboard which is a long and involved process. There aren't any common problems with the hardware, however it is very easy to damage the ribbon cable going from the palmrest assembly to the motherboard, and it is easy for the ZIF connector locking plates to fall off, however it can carefully be placed back into place.
==Resources==
[https://www.sony.com.sg/microsite/vaio/about/vaio_z_interview/index.html Interview with the developers behind the VGN-Z]

[https://ascii.jp/elem/000/000/151/151252/ Article with a VAIO Engineer tearing down the laptop (Japanese)]

[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bzbEJg73RB0 Gaming test on a VGN-Z with a T9900 and 8GB RAM]

[https://archive.org/details/VGNZ11VRNRecoveryMediaRUS VGN-Z11VRN Recovery (Russian)]
==Credits==
[https://pc.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/2008/0730/hotrev369.html PC Watch Review (Japanese)]

[https://www.alphr.com/sony/sony-vaio-vgn-z51wgb/30434/sony-vaio-vgn-z51wgb-review/ Alphr Review]

PCG-U

2025-03-10T18:40:57Z

Resident007: /* PCG-U101 */

== Overview ==
[[File:PCG-U1 and U3.png|alt=PCG-U1 and U3|thumb|PCG-U1 and U3[[File:PCG-U1 Thumbphrase.png|thumb|PCG-U1 ThumbPhrase]]]]

The Sony VAIO PCG-U was a line of ultraportable subnotebooks sold by Sony from October 2002 to circa May 2004. It could be said that PCG-U lineup inherited the form factor, concept and looks of the [[PCG-GT]] line to some extent. All models in the line were never officially sold outside Japan.

The first model, PCG-U1, was officially released in April 2002. The higher-spec model, PCG-U3, was released in October of the same year. The final model, PCG-U101, was released in May of 2003, shifting from Transmeta to Intel platform and featuring a transflective screen.

All PCG-U models had a ThumbPhrase feature, allowing one to easily type Japanese characters with one hand.

Despite the PCG-U1 and PCG-U3 both having considerably higher clock speeds than the PCG-U101, they are both far, far slower than the PCG-U101. The Intel Celeron M is able to be way faster in all usage scenarios due to being an actual x86 CPU instead of a [[wikipedia:Very_long_instruction_word|VLIW (Very Long Instruction Word)]] one, like the Transmeta Crusoe.

The lineup was superseded by the completely redesigned [[VGN-U]] in May of 2004.

== Detailed Specs ==
There was a total of three models in the PCG-U lineup. The PCG-U1 and U3 both share the same design, apart from the fact that the U1 is white and the U3 is black. The U3 was just an upgraded higher-specced and visually revised U1 with a faster CPU and more RAM.[[File:PCG-U Normal and Extended batteries.png|alt=PCG-U Normal and Extended batteries|thumb|PCG-U Normal and Extended batteries]]One of the most interesting things about the PCG-U1 and PCG-U3 is their processor, the Transmeta Crusoe TM5800. While still running x86-based version of Windows and being able to run native x86 applications, this CPU is, in fact, a VLIW CPU which translates x86 instructions to VLIW instructions using the so-called Code Morphing Software and executes them on the fly. Thus, such CPU could emulate any CPU architecture unless the corresponding Code Morphing Software version exists. To speed up operation, a special cache (which is taken from RAM, 16MB for PCG-U1 and 24MB for PCG-U3) for storing instructions is used, where the CPU stores the generated routines in cache and, if these routines are being frequently used, it tries to optimize them even further. However, this cache would be cleared after each reboot, meaning that the system would be pretty slow upon each boot and every "new" action (like starting a specific program the first time after booting the system) would also be slow as the CPU will need to optimize all the code from scratch.

However, while being not very fast, Transmeta CPUs were very power-efficient. While corresponding x86 CPUs could consume up to 35W of power under full load, the TM5800's power draw under full load was only 8.5W. The Transmeta CPU consumed even less power during tasks with medium to high intensity, like DVD playback (around 1.5W). This caused the U1 and U3 to work for around 3 hours on standard small battery pack and up to 12 hours on optional large battery pack.
[[File:PCG-U1.png|thumb|366x366px|PCG-U1, Official image by Sony]]

=== PCG-U1 ===
'''Processor:''' Transmeta Crusoe TM5800 867 MHz

'''Graphics:''' ATI Mobility Radeon M6 with 8 MB VRAM

'''Memory:''' 128MB onboard (384MB max)

'''Display:''' 6.4" 1024×768 transmissive

'''Storage:''' 20 GB 1.8-inch IDE HDD

'''Weight:''' 860g

'''Original OS:''' Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition

'''MSRP:''' ¥150,000
[[File:PCG-U3.png|thumb|369x369px|PCG-U3, Official image by Sony]]

=== PCG-U3 ===
'''Processor:''' Transmeta Crusoe TM5800 933 MHz

'''Graphics:''' ATI Mobility Radeon M6 with 8 MB VRAM

'''Memory:''' 256MB (512MB max)

'''Display:''' 6.4" 1024×768 transmissive

'''Storage:''' 20 GB 1.8-inch IDE HDD

'''Weight:''' 860g

'''Original OS:''' Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition

'''MSRP:''' ¥150,000 [[File:PCG-U101.png|alt=PCG-U101|thumb|PCG-U101|368x368px]]
=== PCG-U101 ===
'''Processor:''' Intel Celeron M 600 MHz

'''Graphics:''' ATI Mobility Radeon M6 with 16 MB VRAM

'''Memory:''' 256MB (1GB max)

'''Display:''' 7.1" 1024×768 transflective

'''Storage:''' 30 GB 1.8-inch IDE HDD

'''Weight:''' 880g

'''Original OS:''' Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition Service Pack 1

'''MSRP:''' ¥160,000

== Daily Usage Today ==

Even though they were pretty interesting machines for their size, all PCG-U models have little to no practical use nowadays. The CPU (especially Transmeta Crusoe found in PCG-U1 and PCG-U3) is far too slow to keep up with modern tasks, and RAM size doesn't allow for comfortable multitasking. The 1.8" HDD is also quite slow (it uses the same compact IDE interface as Apple's iPods, so spares are easy and cheap to find, as well as flash modding solutions, however even if you manage to install a fast drive, you will only see an increase in random access speeds, while linear speeds will still be limited by low bus speed). The small keyboard and the fact that it's designed to be held like a handheld makes it hard for office use without external keyboard and mouse as well. However, you still can do very basic web browsing, but it is not going to be a very snappy experience.

PCG-U series is sought after by the collectors due to their unique CPUs (PCG-U1 and PCG-U3), very small footprint for the time of their release and appealing look. The fact that there were not many units produced and that PCG-U was only sold in Japan means that nowadays it's a quite rare item, and the prices have gone up pretty high.

== Resources ==

===== Recovery Discs =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-U1
|[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-u1-recovery-discs Internet Archive]
|-
|PCG-U3
|[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-u-3-drivers-backup-cd/ Internet Archive]
|-
|PCG-U101
|[https://archive.org/details/sonyvaiopcgu101 Internet Archive]
|}

===== Hard drive images =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-U1
|[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-u-1-windows-xp-japanese-oem-image Internet Archive]
|-
|PCG-U3
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio_u3_hdd_image Internet Archive]
|}

===== Drivers =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-U1
|[https://archive.org/details/sony-pcg-u-1-drivers Internet Archive]
|}

===== Disassembly Guides =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-U1
|[https://youtu.be/25_hZsX37gM?si=oPqb6TAtBcnnQfva&t=250 YouTube]
|-
|PCG-U101
|[https://youtu.be/PSBTTuzUSRM?si=Npx4YBEO8gHfwCsq&t=136 YouTube]
|}

== Credits ==
[https://sony.com Sony], [[wikipedia:Sony_Vaio_U_series|Wikipedia]], and [https://the-gadgeteer.com/2008/01/30/sony_vaio_pcg_u3_umpc/ The Gadgeteer]

VGN-UX

2025-03-09T17:10:22Z

Resident007: /* Detailed Specs */

== Overview ==
[[File:Image 2023-02-11 023048743.png|thumb|VGN-UX in black color, with accompanying dock.]]
Sony made its first attempt to the Ultra-portable Mobile Computer (UMPC) with the VGN-U series introduced in 2004. In 2006, Sony launched the new VGN-UX series, which was their second attempt at UMPC category.
[[File:Image 2023-02-11 023714198.png|thumb|The 3 colors available for the VGN-UX series.]]
The VGN-UX series's design is a departure from VGN-U, which has brushed aluminum front and a large (for its size) 5.0-inch touchscreen without built-in keyboard. The VGN-UX has a radically new design, which has a slide-out QWERTY keyboard under the 4.5-inch touchscreen, resulting an overall shape like a portable gaming console. The overall dimensions of VGN-UX is smaller than VGN-U, while having even more capabilities than the latter, and with the new design it is more comfortable to be used with both one-hand and two-hand. The VGN-UX weights around 490g-544g depending on configuration. Due to its capabilities and unique design, the VGN-UX appeared in multiple popular culture appearances, such as Terminator Salvation and Casino Royale. The VGN-UX also has one new feature that the VGN-U doesn't have: a set of front and rear web cameras with 0.3 megapixels and 1.3 megapixels resolution respectively, which could both records videos and take still images using the built-in Camera Capture Utility. The VGN-UX comes in 3 colors, all are equipped with a black screen bezel: Silver as the standard color, a high-end edition with black casing, and a very rare, built-to-order only special edition with dark blue casing which was only available at Sony Store in Japan.

The VGN-UX can be equipped with an Intel Celeron M, Core Solo or Core 2 Solo (later revision model), 512MB (early model) or 1GB soldered DDR2 RAM, a 1.8-inch, 4200rpm hard drive or even Samsung SSD drive, which makes it the first VAIO computer equipped with SSD as internal storage. The graphics is powered by Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 950 in the Intel 945GMS chipset, which drives a 4.5-inch, touch-enabled panel at a resolution of 1024x600. It is also equipped with an Intel Wi-Fi module, Bluetooth, GPS (in select models), EDGE/UMTS/HSDPA capability (in select models), a pointing stick with accompanying left- and right-click buttons, one USB 2.0 port, 3.5mm audio in and out jacks, built-in fingerprint reader and built-in Memory Stick Duo and CompactFlash reader, and comes with a Port Replicator which provided extra ports such as AV out and IEEE 1394. As mentioned, the VGN-UX is also equipped with front- and rear-facing cameras. A "CAPTURE" button is placed near the top right corner of the machine, just like a real camera would, enabling users to handle the machine like it's a camera and shoot photos. The VGN-UX is preinstalled with Windows XP Home Edition/Professional (early models) or Windows Vista Home Premium/Business (later models).

The VGN-UX launched in 2006 with a price starting from $1800, with prices over $3000 if one is equipped with an SSD, which was a very expensive technology at the time. With such price the VGN-UX was not intended to appeal to the mass market, instead it attracted those who sees ultimate portability as the most important aspect of having a new PC. The VGN-UX is often regarded as one of the best computers Sony ever made due to its ultra-miniature components and overall design, same as the PCG-X505. Years after its launch, the VGN-UX has become a machine that is highly sought after by many VAIO, Sony or even ordinary PC collectors due to its distinctive design and rich feature set. Used VGN-UX usually goes for at least $200 today, with even higher prices for black or blue colored machines.

== Detailed Specs ==
Unlike devices for European and American markets, Japanese units featured a CF slot instead of cellular model, 1seg TV tuner, and FeliCa reader that slides out of Japanese version of VGP-PRUX1 Port Replicator.

'''Processor:''' Intel Celeron M 423, Core Solo U1300-U1500 (early models)/Celeron M 523, Core 2 Solo U2100/U2200 (later models)

'''Graphics:''' Intel GMA 950

'''Display:''' 4.5", 1024x600, transmissive, with resistive touch panel and stylus

'''RAM:''' 512MB (early models) or 1GB DDR2 400/533MHz, soldered

'''Storage:''' 1.8", 4200rpm, UltraATA/100, 20/30/40/60/100GB HDD or 16/32/48/64GB Samsung SLC Solid State Drive

'''OS:''' Windows XP Home Edition/Professional (early models) or Windows Vista Home Premium/Business (later models)

'''Weight:''' 490-544g (depending on configuration)

'''MSRP:''' Starting from 1800 USD

== Daily Usage Today ==
With the small package of VGN-UX, the machine could not be easily equipped with better hardware at the time like Core Duo or more memory. However, it's currently possible to upgrade the CPU to Intel Core 2 Duo U7700, but it's difficult, requires expensive equipment and skills in soldering BGA components, and imposes a risk of damaging the device in process. Due to its soldered single-core CPU and limited RAM capacity, the VGN-UX is unable to keep up with the latest OS and applications, which makes using the machine today a difficult task. The battery life is also a concerning issue as well, as the battery life was already not good when it was launched. With batteries losing their capacity over time, it is harder to use the machine on the go for a prolonged time. If you can find a new battery for the VGN-UX, there may be a chance that you can run it for 1-2 hours. Keep in mind that this machine runs very hot due to the high heat produced by the CPU and chipset, and thus Sony implemented a throttling policy for these machine, which throttles the CPU to 800MHz once the fan starts running. With such limitations, it is not recommended to use this machine as a daily driver. If you really want to use it daily, installing lightweight OS like certain distros of Linux may help run smoother.

== Resources ==

===== Recovery Discs =====
{| class="wikitable"
|VGN-UX180P
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio-vgn-ux180p-recovery-media Internet Archive]
|-
|VGN-UX280P
|[https://archive.org/details/sony-vgn-ux-280-p-recovery-dvd Internet Archive]
|-
|VGN-UX380N
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio-vgn-ux380n-recovery-disc-iso Internet Archive]
|-
|VGN-UX17GP
|[https://archive.org/details/sony-vgn-ux-series-recovery-disc-win-xp Internet Archive]
|-
|VGN-UX90PS
|[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-ux-90-ps-recovery-disc Internet Archive]
|}

===== Hard drive images =====
{| class="wikitable"
|VGN-UX58
|[https://archive.org/details/recovery-c-drive-factory Internet Archive]
|-
|VGN-UX92NS (Windows Vista & 7 Dualboot)
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio-vgn-ux92ns-vista-win7 Internet Archive]
|}

===== Recovery partition images =====
{| class="wikitable"
|VGN-UX380N
|[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-ngn-ux-380-n-recovery-partition Internet Archive]
|-
|VGN-UX1XN
|[https://archive.org/details/ux1xn_vista_recovery Internet Archive]
|-
|VGN-UX91NS (Windows XP SP2)
|[https://archive.org/details/ux91ns-recovery Internet Archive]
|-
|VGN-UX92NS (Windows Vista)
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio-vgn-ux92ns-recovery-partition Internet Archive]
|}
[http://www.vaio.sony.co.jp/Products/UX2/ Sony VAIO VGN-UX Presentation Page]

[http://www.vaio.sony.co.jp/Products/UX1/lineup.html Another Sony VAIO VGN-UX Presentation Page]

[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aop9UXYKCS4 Sony VAIO VGN-UX Disassembly Guide]

== Sources ==
[https://www.trustedreviews.com/reviews/sony-micro-pc-vaio-vgn-ux1xn Trusted Reviews], [https://www.cnet.com/reviews/sony-vaio-ux-review/ CNET] and [[wikipedia:Sony_Vaio_UX_Micro_PC|Wikipedia]]

VGN-U

2025-03-07T11:36:39Z

Resident007: infobox

{{Infobox Specs
| name = VGN-U
| image = VGN-U-Promo.png
| subtitle = VGN-U Promotional Image
| series = VGN-U, Type U
| rel = 2004
| cpu = Intel Celeron M 900MHz, Intel Pentium M 1.0GHz/1.1GHz
| gpu = Intel 855GM
| chipset = Intel 855GM
| memory = 256-512MB, 512MB max.
| display = 5" 800×600 custom Sony ACX534AKM-2 transflective LCD panel
| storage = 1.8" IDE 20GB, 30GB
| audio = SoundMAX Digital Audio
| os = Microsoft Windows XP (Home Edition or Professional)
| weight = 550g (1.21lbs)
| size = 167 x 108 x 26.4mm
| msrp = around $1600 to $1900 US
}}

==Overview==
[[File:VGN-U Display-design.png|thumb|VGN-U custom display panel design allows for a thin resistive touch screen that, however, almost does not bend when pressed with a stylus]]
The Sony VAIO VGN-U was a line of subnotebooks sold by Sony from May 2004 to February 2005, which succeeded the [[PCG-U]] line and was the first "U" to be released outside Japan. At their release, they were the smallest independent computers running Windows XP and the most powerful high-end subnotebooks at the time, being roughly the size of two DVD cases stacked on top of each other.

The first models of the series to come out were the VGN-U50 and the VGN-U70P in Japan. The American model, the VGN-U750P, came out in December 2004. A two models for Asian markets were introduced as well, specifically the VGN-U8C for Chinese market and the VGN-U8G for Singapore.

The VGN-U lineup is also known as one of the only three Sony VAIO computers that had a transflective display (the other ones are the [[PCG-C2GPS]] but it had a separate backlight module making it more of a reflective display whereas backlight is built into the VGN-U display and PCG-U101, which has a truly transflective panel).

==Detailed Specs==
The VGN-U lineup had a total of 6 models, some of which either had minor differences or were rebranded versions of previous models for other markets.[[File:U750P-85Hz.jpg|thumb|VGN-U750P demonstrating 85Hz of actual display refresh rate in TFTTEST utility]]The custom proprietary display of VGN-U is seemingly capable of refresh rates up to 85Hz; although the integrated GPU outputs 60Hz signal, the display panel likely uses a technology called [[wikipedia:Motion_interpolation|motion interpolation]] to generate and insert frames between the real frames on the fly, thus smoothing any motion that happens on the screen. This theory is accompanied by direct comparison with the [[VGN-UX]], in which screen on the VGN-U seems more smooth in operation.

None of the VGN-U models had a built-in keyboard. Instead, they had a separate Sony VGP-KBC1 Foldable Keyboard, the compact USB keyboard which resembles a laptop keyboard. It folds in the middle, and has a TrackStik mouse pointer in the center. When folded, the unit is approximately the same width and height of the U-series unit, and about half the thickness. Also, all models had backlit buttons on the unit itself, which could show various light effects when device is turned on, attempted to turn on while on hold or the screen is rotated using Rotate button.

Using a combination of bundled VGP-PRU1 Port Replicator, any USB keyboard and mouse connected to the Port Replicator (or just bundled VGP-KBC1 keyboard since it already has TrackStik), and any VGA monitor, user could essentially turn their VGN-U into a desktop PC while still retaining the portability: the unit can either divert display output to the VGA port or mirror the image, allowing for a convenient experience on a large screen, and can be undocked without turning the power off. Also, the Port Replicator will also charge the device's battery while it's docked.

It came with many accessories in the box, including the Port Replicator, Remote Commander (headphone remote control unit, which is the same type used by Sony in its MiniDisc players, making it quite easy to find, which allows one to control audio playback and read current track information), VGA/Ethernet dongle, stylus and pouches for the computer and the foldable keyboard.
[[File:U750P-front.jpg|thumb|VGN-U750P, front view]]

=== '''VGN-U50''' ===
'''Processor:''' Intel Celeron M 900MHz

'''Graphics:''' Intel 855GM

'''Chipset:''' Intel 855GM

'''Memory:''' 256MB DDR 266MHz (upgradable to 512MB using a proprietary memory module)

'''Display:''' 5" 800×600 custom transflective LCD panel [[File:VGN-U750P Back.jpg|thumb|VGN-U750P, back view]][[File:VGN-U Accessories.jpg|thumb|VGN-U Accessories: VGP-PRU1 Port Replicator, VGP-KBC1 Foldable Keyboard, VGA/Ethernet dongle, Remote Commander, stylus and pouches for the computer itself and the keyboard[[File:Insides of the VGN-U.jpg|thumb|Insides of a flash-modded VGN-U]]]]'''Storage:''' 20 GB 1.8-inch IDE HDD

'''Weight:''' 550g

'''Original OS:''' Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition Service Pack 1

'''MSRP:''' ¥179,000 ($1595)
=== '''VGN-U70P''' ===
'''Processor:''' Intel Pentium M 1GHz

'''Graphics:''' Intel 855GM

'''Chipset:''' Intel 855GM

'''Memory:''' 512MB DDR 266MHz

'''Display:''' 5" 800×600 custom transflective LCD panel

'''Storage:''' 20 GB 1.8-inch IDE HDD

'''Weight:''' 550g

'''Original OS:''' Microsoft Windows XP Professional Service Pack 1

'''MSRP:''' ¥210,000 ($1871)
=== '''VGN-U8G''' ===
'''Processor:''' Intel Celeron M 900MHz

'''Graphics:''' Intel 855GM

'''Chipset:''' Intel 855GM

'''Memory:''' 256MB DDR 266MHz (upgradable to 512MB using a proprietary memory module) [[File:VGN-U Memory.jpg|thumb|512MB Memory Module for VGN-U line]]'''Display:''' 5" 800×600 custom transflective LCD panel

'''Storage:''' 20 GB 1.8-inch IDE HDD

'''Weight:''' 550g

'''Original OS:''' Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition Service Pack 1

'''MSRP:''' Unknown
[[File:VGN-U 256MB module.png|thumb|256MB Memory Module for VGN-U line]]

=== '''VGN-U8C''' ===
'''Processor:''' Intel Celeron M 900MHz

'''Graphics:''' Intel 855GM

'''Chipset:''' Intel 855GM

'''Memory:''' 256MB DDR 266MHz (upgradable to 512MB using a proprietary memory module)

'''Display:''' 5" 800×600 custom transflective LCD panel

'''Storage:''' 20 GB 1.8-inch IDE HDD

'''Weight:''' 550g

'''Original OS:''' Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition Service Pack 1

'''MSRP:''' Unknown
=== '''VGN-U750P''' ===
'''Processor:''' Intel Pentium M 733 1.1GHz

'''Graphics:''' Intel 855GM

'''Chipset:''' Intel 855GM

'''Memory: 512'''MB DDR 266MHz

'''Display:''' 5" 800×600 custom transflective LCD panel

'''Storage:''' 20 GB 1.8-inch IDE HDD

'''Weight:''' 550g

'''Original OS:''' Microsoft Windows XP Professional Service Pack 2

'''MSRP:''' $1,799 (as of December 2004)
=== '''VGN-U71P''' ===
'''Processor:''' Intel Pentium M 733 1.1GHz

'''Graphics:''' Intel 855GM

'''Chipset:''' Intel 855GM

'''Memory:''' 512MB DDR 266MHz

'''Display:''' 5" 800×600 custom transflective LCD panel

'''Storage:''' 30 GB 1.8-inch IDE HDD

'''Weight:''' 550g

'''Original OS:''' Microsoft Windows XP Professional Service Pack 2

'''MSRP:''' ¥199,800 ($1893)

==Daily Usage Today==

While extremely advanced for its size, especially back in 2004 (being the smallest full-featured PC running Windows XP in the world when it was released), all VGN-U models are almost completely useless from a practical point of use nowadays. Its processor has only one slow (by today's standards) core, 512MB of RAM is too little for modern tasks, and integrated graphics can't handle Windows Aero nor they have any WDDM drivers available. The 1.8" HDD is also quite slow (it uses the same compact IDE interface as Apple's iPods, so spares are easy and cheap to find, as well as flash modding solutions, however even if you manage to install a fast drive, you will only see an increase in random access speeds, while linear speeds will still be limited by low bus speed). The lack of built-in keyboard makes it hard for office use as well. However, you still can do very basic web browsing, but it is not going to be a very pleasant experience.

Overall, the VGN-U can only be recommended as a rare collectors item, and a rather expensive one as well, especially the VGN-U8C, VGN-U8G and VGN-U750P.

==Resources==

===== Recovery Discs =====
{| class="wikitable"
|VGN-U50 (DVD)
|[https://archive.org/details/SonyVaioU50 Internet Archive]
|-
|VGN-U70P (CDs)
|[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-u-70-p-cd-1 Internet Archive]
|-
|VGN-U70P (DVDs)
|[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-u-70-p-dvd Internet Archive]
|-
|VGN-U71P (CDs)
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio-u-71u-j-system-recovery-windowsxp-sp-2-cd-1-of-3 Internet Archive]
|-
|VGN-U71P (DVD)
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio-u71u-j-system-recovery-windowsxp-sp2-dvd Internet Archive]
|-
|VGN-U750P (boot CD&DVD)
|[https://archive.org/details/sonyvaiou750p Internet Archive]
|-
|VGN-U750P (CDs)
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio-u750p-rec-cd Internet Archive]
|}

===== Hard drive images =====
{| class="wikitable"
|VGN-U8G
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio-u8g-dump Internet Archive]
|}

===== Recovery partition images =====
{| class="wikitable"
|VGN-U750P
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio-u750p-recovery-partition-image Internet Archive]
|-
|VGN-U71P
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio71p-recovery-partition Internet Archive]
|}
[https://youtu.be/ESbdA2bDGwk?si=Kwc-UIb39jorLwDU&t=214 Sony VAIO VGN-U Disassembly Guide]

[http://www.vaio.sony.co.jp/Products/VGN-U50/ Sony VAIO Type U Presentation Page]

==Sources==
[https://sony.com Sony] and [[wikipedia:Sony_Vaio_U_series|Wikipedia]]

PCG-GT

2025-02-23T09:06:25Z

Resident007:

{{Infobox Specs
| name = PCG-GT
| image = PCG-GT JP.jpg
| subtitle = Sony VAIO PCG-GT3 promotional image
| series = GT
| rel = 2000
| cpu = Transmeta Crusoe TM5600, 600MHz
| gpu = ATI RAGE Mobility M1, 8MB VRAM
| chipset = Intel 82371
| memory = 128MB, max 256MB
| display = 6.4" 1024×768
| storage = 20GB (GT1) or 30GB (GT3/K) 2.5-inch IDE
| audio = Yamaha DS-XG in connection with Asahi Kasei audiochip
| os = Microsoft Windows ME (GT1) or Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional (GT3/K)
| weight = 1.1kg (2,42lbs)
| size = 241 x 156 x 40mm
| msrp = around $3000
}}

==Overview==
The Sony VAIO PCG-GT was a line of ultraportable subnotebooks with a built-in digital camera sold by Sony exclusively in Japan from November 2000 to late 2001.

The original model, PCG-GT1 released on November 18, 2000. A higher-end model featuring darker colors and larger hard drive, PCG-GT3 (/K) was released on June 30, 2001.

Both models featured a large camera with 10x optical zoom on the side, intended to be primarily used for taking pictures that could later be shared on an image sharing service ImageStation, and for video recording and live streaming to PercasTV service, one of the first live video streaming services.
[[File:PCG-GT1-handheld.png|thumb|PCG-GT1 in camcorder mode]]
Since the PCG-GT is designed like a sort of camcorder, the lid is able to rotate 180° like many 2-in-1 laptops in the 2000s, meaning you can close the lid with the display on the outside. The camera is also able to rotate vertically, allowing for a fairly pleasing experience when taking pictures or videos. The PCG-GT even has tripod mount at the base of the machine for stabilized video streaming, and a lens cover is also bundled. The PCG-GT is able to capture pictures up to 640x480 resolution, and videos up to 640x480 (15FPS) or 320x240 (30FPS) in AVI format.

Build quality is good, made out of metal for the lid, and plastic for the rest. The keyboard, being much smaller than full size because of the form factor of the device, is still usable, however don't expect a very pleasing experience. No trackpad is provided, only a trackpoint.

A total of 5000 PCG-GT1 units were made. The number of PCG-GT3 units produced is unknown, but is likely the same as for PCG-GT1.

Some of the design choices featured in PCG-GT line were carried over to the [[PCG-U]] line in 2002.

There were two models released, PCG-GT1 and PCG-GT3 (/K). Both of them were very similar aside from a few minor differences in appearance, different hard drives, and Windows 2000 instead of ME in PCG-GT3. Both featured a Transmeta Crusoe TM5600 processor built on [[wikipedia:Very_long_instruction_word|VLIW]] architecture, similar to the TM5800 found in PCG-U series, however the one in PCG-GT is earlier and thus slower.[[File:PCG-GT1.png|thumb|Sony VAIO PCG-GT1]]
[[File:PCG-GT3-K.png|thumb|Sony VAIO PCG-GT3/K]]
==Daily Usage Today==
Much like back then, due to the limitations of Crusoe processor, the PCG-GT is slow, and is only good enough for light tasks of its era. Camera is not acceptable by modern standards, but was fairly good back then, and still able to produce crisp albeit low resolution pictures. There is little to no usability in modern tasks for any PCG-GT model.

Due to the small production quantity and the interesting design of the machine, the PCG-GT is the holy grail of some VAIO enthusiasts, therefore the second hand market price of it has skyrocketed in recent years. It is nearly impossible to get one with reasonable price, but if you are able to get one of these, the best usage would be to use it as a vintage camcorder.

==Resources ==

=====Recovery Discs=====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-GT1
|[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-gt1-system-recovery-discs Internet Archive]
|}

=====Hard drive images=====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-GT1
|[https://archive.org/details/PCG-GT1-disk Internet Archive]
|}

=====Manuals and Useful Links=====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-GT1
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio-pcg-gt-1-manual Internet Archive]
|-
|PCG-GT1 (English translated)
|[https://archive.org/details/pcg-gt1-english-manual Internet Archive]
|}

=====Disassembly Guide=====
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DleoLLrvpdc Sony VAIO PCG-GT1 Disassembly Guide]

==Credits==
[https://sony.com Sony], [https://pc.watch.impress.co.jp/ pc.watch.impress.co.jp]

PCG-GT

2025-02-22T19:09:50Z

Resident007: add chipset info

{{Infobox Specs
| name = PCG-GT
| image = PCG-GT JP.jpg
| subtitle = Sony VAIO PCG-GT3 promotional image
| series = GT
| rel = 2000
| cpu = Transmeta Crusoe TM5600, 600MHz
| gpu = ATI RAGE Mobility M1, 8MB VRAM
| chipset = Intel 82371
| memory = 128MB, max 256MB
| display = 6.4" 1024×768
| storage = 20GB (GT1) or 30GB (GT3/K) 2.5-inch IDE
| audio = Yamaha DS-XG in connection with Asahi Kasei audiochip
| os = Microsoft Windows ME (GT1) or Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional (GT3/K)
| weight = 1.1kg (2,42lbs)
| size = 241 x 156 x 40mm
| msrp = around $3000
}}

==Overview==
The Sony VAIO PCG-GT was a line of ultraportable subnotebooks with a built-in digital camera sold by Sony exclusively in Japan from November 2000 to late 2001.

The original model, PCG-GT1 released on November 18, 2000. A higher-end model featuring darker colors and larger hard drive, PCG-GT3 (/K) was released on June 30, 2001.

Both models featured a large camera with 10x optical zoom on the side, intended to be primarily used for taking pictures that could later be shared on an image sharing service ImageStation, and for video recording and live streaming to PercasTV service, one of the first live video streaming services.
[[File:PCG-GT1-handheld.png|thumb|PCG-GT1 in camcorder mode]]
Since the PCG-GT is designed like a sort of camcorder, the lid is able to rotate 180°, meaning you can close the lid with the display on the outside. The camera is also able to rotate vertically, allowing for a fairly pleasing experience when taking pictures or videos. The PCG-GT is able to capture pictures up to 640x480 resolution, and videos up to 640x480 (15FPS) or 320x240 (30FPS) in AVI format.

Build quality is good, made out of metal for the lid, and plastic for the rest. The keyboard, being much smaller than full size because of the form factor of the device, is still usable, however don't expect a very pleasing experience. No trackpad is provided, only a trackpoint.

A total of 5000 PCG-GT1 units were made. The number of PCG-GT3 units produced is unknown, but is likely the same as for PCG-GT1.

Some of the design choices featured in PCG-GT line were carried over to the [[PCG-U]] line in 2002.

There were two models released, PCG-GT1 and PCG-GT3 (/K). Both of them were very similar aside from a few minor differences in appearance, different hard drives, and Windows 2000 instead of ME in PCG-GT3. Both featured a Transmeta Crusoe TM5600 processor built on [[wikipedia:Very_long_instruction_word|VLIW]] architecture, similar to the TM5800 found in PCG-U series, however the one in PCG-GT is earlier and thus slower.[[File:PCG-GT1.png|thumb|Sony VAIO PCG-GT1]]
[[File:PCG-GT3-K.png|thumb|Sony VAIO PCG-GT3/K]]
==Daily Usage Today==
Much like back then, the PCG-GT is slow, and is only good enough for light tasks of its era. Camera is not acceptable by modern standards, but was fairly good back then. There is little to no usability in modern tasks for any PCG-GT model.

The PCG-GT is a very rare collector's item, and is rarely found for sale anywhere.

==Resources ==

=====Recovery Discs=====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-GT1
|[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-gt1-system-recovery-discs Internet Archive]
|}

=====Hard drive images=====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-GT1
|[https://archive.org/details/PCG-GT1-disk Internet Archive]
|}

=====Manuals and Useful Links=====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-GT1
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio-pcg-gt-1-manual Internet Archive]
|-
|PCG-GT1 (English translated)
|[https://archive.org/details/pcg-gt1-english-manual Internet Archive]
|}

=====Disassembly Guide=====
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DleoLLrvpdc Sony VAIO PCG-GT1 Disassembly Guide]

==Credits==
[https://sony.com Sony], [https://pc.watch.impress.co.jp/ pc.watch.impress.co.jp]

PCG-GT

2025-02-22T19:05:25Z

Resident007: Infobox

{{Infobox Specs
| name = PCG-GT
| image = PCG-GT JP.jpg
| subtitle = Sony VAIO PCG-GT3 promotional image
| series = GT
| rel = 2000
| cpu = Transmeta Crusoe TM5600, 600MHz
| gpu = ATI RAGE Mobility M1, 8MB VRAM
| memory = 128MB, max 256MB
| display = 6.4" 1024×768
| storage = 20GB (GT1) or 30GB (GT3/K) 2.5-inch IDE
| audio = Yamaha DS-XG in connection with Asahi Kasei audiochip
| os = Microsoft Windows ME (GT1) or Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional (GT3/K)
| weight = 1.1kg (2,42lbs)
| size = 241 x 156 x 40mm
| msrp = around $3000
}}

==Overview==
The Sony VAIO PCG-GT was a line of ultraportable subnotebooks with a built-in digital camera sold by Sony exclusively in Japan from November 2000 to late 2001.

The original model, PCG-GT1 released on November 18, 2000. A higher-end model featuring darker colors and larger hard drive, PCG-GT3 (/K) was released on June 30, 2001.

Both models featured a large camera with 10x optical zoom on the side, intended to be primarily used for taking pictures that could later be shared on an image sharing service ImageStation, and for video recording and live streaming to PercasTV service, one of the first live video streaming services.
[[File:PCG-GT1-handheld.png|thumb|PCG-GT1 in camcorder mode]]
Since the PCG-GT is designed like a sort of camcorder, the lid is able to rotate 180°, meaning you can close the lid with the display on the outside. The camera is also able to rotate vertically, allowing for a fairly pleasing experience when taking pictures or videos. The PCG-GT is able to capture pictures up to 640x480 resolution, and videos up to 640x480 (15FPS) or 320x240 (30FPS) in AVI format.

Build quality is good, made out of metal for the lid, and plastic for the rest. The keyboard, being much smaller than full size because of the form factor of the device, is still usable, however don't expect a very pleasing experience. No trackpad is provided, only a trackpoint.

A total of 5000 PCG-GT1 units were made. The number of PCG-GT3 units produced is unknown, but is likely the same as for PCG-GT1.

Some of the design choices featured in PCG-GT line were carried over to the [[PCG-U]] line in 2002.

There were two models released, PCG-GT1 and PCG-GT3 (/K). Both of them were very similar aside from a few minor differences in appearance, different hard drives, and Windows 2000 instead of ME in PCG-GT3. Both featured a Transmeta Crusoe TM5600 processor built on [[wikipedia:Very_long_instruction_word|VLIW]] architecture, similar to the TM5800 found in PCG-U series, however the one in PCG-GT is earlier and thus slower.[[File:PCG-GT1.png|thumb|Sony VAIO PCG-GT1]]
[[File:PCG-GT3-K.png|thumb|Sony VAIO PCG-GT3/K]]
==Daily Usage Today==
Much like back then, the PCG-GT is slow, and is only good enough for light tasks of its era. Camera is not acceptable by modern standards, but was fairly good back then. There is little to no usability in modern tasks for any PCG-GT model.

The PCG-GT is a very rare collector's item, and is rarely found for sale anywhere.

==Resources ==

=====Recovery Discs=====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-GT1
|[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-gt1-system-recovery-discs Internet Archive]
|}

=====Hard drive images=====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-GT1
|[https://archive.org/details/PCG-GT1-disk Internet Archive]
|}

=====Manuals and Useful Links=====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-GT1
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio-pcg-gt-1-manual Internet Archive]
|-
|PCG-GT1 (English translated)
|[https://archive.org/details/pcg-gt1-english-manual Internet Archive]
|}

=====Disassembly Guide=====
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DleoLLrvpdc Sony VAIO PCG-GT1 Disassembly Guide]

==Credits==
[https://sony.com Sony], [https://pc.watch.impress.co.jp/ pc.watch.impress.co.jp]

Recovery Discs

2025-02-18T15:03:12Z

Resident007: /* PCG */ added U101

'''Below is a list of all the Sony VAIO recovery discs that can be found on the internet.'''

Some are uploaded by us, some aren't, and so we offer no liability, please use at your own risk, not that there is one anyway.

==== '''You can help us by dumping and uploading Recovery Media from any of the models in the [[Wanted Recovery Media|Wanted List]].''' ====
'''<big>Last list update: February 18, 2025</big>'''

== Compatibility Problems (model locks) ==
Most recovery discs only work on the model they were created with (model example: VPCZ11C7E), and not on the entire series (series example: VPCZ1). In some cases, they only work on the unit they were created with. Even though those discs would work perfectly on the machine you are trying to install them on, they are locked from installing.

===== Removing or Bypassing Model Locks =====
'''[[Sony VAIO Recovery Patcher (SVRP)]] is a utility designed to patch recovery discs to bypass model locks.''' For now, only Windows Vista, 7, and 8 recoveries are supported, but support for XP and below is coming soon.

== How to use this list ==
To use this list, you can use the search function of your browser (CTRL+F), '''input the series name''' (example PCG-C1), '''not the exact model number!''' You can also visit the page of whatever series/model you are searching for, and if recovery discs are available, they will be listed in the downloads section.

A revamped interface with built-in search is coming soon.

== List of Available Series ==
'''We do not make a difference between languages''', you can sometimes change the language after the install.

'''System Recovery is also called Disc 1, and Application Recovery is Disc 2.'''

These downloads are all on the '''Internet Archive''' or on our servers.

===PCG===

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-u1-recovery-discs PCG-U1]

[https://archive.org/details/BetaArchive_PC_OS_Recovery_Archive PCG-U3]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-u-3-drivers-backup-cd PCG-U3 (alternative link)]

[https://archive.org/details/vaio_u3_hdd_image PCG-U3 (HDD image)]

[https://archive.org/details/sonyvaiopcgu101 PCG-U101]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-f-630-recovery-cd-1 PCG-F]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-r-505-tf-recovery-cd PCG-R505 (PCG-R505TF)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-r505el-system-restore PCG-R505 (PCG-R505EL)]

[https://archive.org/details/SonyPCGFX150Recovery PCG-FX]

[https://archive.org/details/pcg-fx401405-recovery PCG-FX]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-fxa-363332-recovery-cd-1 PCG-FX (PCG-FXA)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-fxa40-series-recovery-driver-cds PCG-FX (PCG-FXA)]

[https://archive.org/details/arcdg-108-d-1 PCG-NVR Application Recovery]

[https://archive.org/details/ucg-108-xeumb-7-d-2 PCG-NVR System Recovery]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-c1-recovery-disc PCG-C1 (PCG-C1)]

[https://archive.org/details/vaio-pcg-c1s-disk1 PCG-C1 (PCG-C1S)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-pcg-c-1-x-recovery-cds-version-g-13.0 PCG-C1 (PCG-C1X)]

[https://archive.org/details/disk-1-of-2 PCG-C1 (PCG-C1VM)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-pcg-c1xs PCG-C1 (PCG-C1XS)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-pcg-c1xd-fr PCG-C1 (PCG-C1XD)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-pcg-c1ve-fr PCG-C1 (PCG-C1VE)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-pcg-c1ve-recovery-cd PCG-C1 (PCG-C1VE, English)]

[https://archive.org/details/pcg-c-1-xf-recovery-cds PCG-C1 (PCG-C1XF)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony_pcg_c1vrxk PCG-C1 (PCG-C1VRX)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-c1mhp PCG-C1 (PCG-C1MHP)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-v505dc2-recovery-dvd-version-g221.0 PCG-V505 (Complete)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-v505ap-system-recovery-cd-version-g188.0 PCG-V505 (PCG-V505AP) System Recovery]

[https://archive.org/details/sonyapplicationrecoverycdvaiopcg-812versiong9.01998 PCG-812 Application Recovery]

[https://archive.org/details/vaio-pcg-sr31k PCG-SR (Complete)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-sr31k PCG-SR (Complete)]

[https://archive.org/details/sonysystemrecoverycdvaiopcg-sr7kversiongk42.02000 PCG-SR System Recovery]

[https://archive.org/details/sonyapplicationrecoverycdvaiopcg-sr7kversiongk42.02000 PCG-SR Application Recovery]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-sr1k-recovery-discs PCG-SR1K]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-sr11k-recovery-discs PCG-SR11K]

[https://archive.org/details/pcg-k315z PCG-K]

[https://archive.org/details/VAIO-PCG-GR214-and-PCG-GR215-recovery PCG-GR]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-grs100p-system-recovery-cd-version-g142.0 PCG-GRS System Recovery]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-grs100p-application-recovery-cd-version-g142.0 PCG-GRS Application Recovery]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-grx600p-system-recovery-cd-version-g134.0 PCG-GRX System Recovery] (INCOMPLETE)

[https://archive.org/details/vaio-pcg-z1r-recovery-discs PCG-Z1 (PCG-Z1R)]

[https://archive.org/details/cd-1_20220123 PCG-Z600]

[https://archive.org/details/vaionote-1 PCG-Z600]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-frv30 PCG-FR (PCG-FRV)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-frv-37-recovery PCG-FR (PCG-FRV)]

[https://archive.org/details/pcg-f650k-recovery PCG-F650K/F680K/F690K]

[https://archive.org/details/pcg-505v-recovery-cd PCG-505 (PCG-505V)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-505-x-product-recovery-cd PCG-505 (PCG-505X / PCG-505EX)]

[https://archive.org/details/sysrec_sony-PCG-505G PCG-505 (PCG-505G)]

[https://archive.org/details/505x-japan-win-95-oem PCG-505 (PCG-505X) (HDD Image)]

[https://archive.org/details/pcg505tstx PCG-505 (PCG-505TS / PCG-505TX)]

[https://archive.org/details/vaio-pcg-777-recovery PCG-777]

[https://archive.org/details/pcg-z505lsk-lek PCG-Z505 (Complete)]

[https://archive.org/details/sonyvaioapplicationrecoverypcgz505rxarcdg22r3 PCG-Z505 Application Recovery]

[https://archive.org/details/pcg-n505 PCG-N505]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-application-recovery-cd-pcg-n-505-ve-n-505-vx-version-g-23.0-arcdg-23-r-2 PCG-N505]

[https://archive.org/details/qr3covery PCG-QR3 (VAIO Library upload)]

[https://archive.org/details/pcg-srx PCG-SRX (VAIO Library upload)] - [https://download.vaiolibrary.com/recoverydiscs/pcg-srx/pcg-srx Mirror: VAIO Library servers]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-gt1-system-recovery-discs PCG-GT (PCG-GT1)]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/recoverydiscs/pcg-xg PCG-XG]

===PCV===

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcv-rs-210-restore-discs PCV-RS (PCV-RS210)]

[https://archive.org/details/pcv-rs210 PCV-RS (PCV-RS210)]

[https://archive.org/details/PCVRS400 PCV-RS (PCV-RS400)]

[https://archive.org/details/SVPCVRS430GRCD PCV-RS (PCV-RS430G)]

[https://archive.org/details/vaio_PCV-RD620G_system_recovery PCV-RS (PCV-RS620G)]

[https://archive.org/details/pcvrd620gcracked PCV-RS (PCV-RS620G) (No Model Check, Cracked)]

[https://archive.org/details/vaio-pcv-w30 PCV-W (PCV-W30)]

[https://archive.org/details/PCVW121_Restore_Partition PCV-W (PCV-W121)]

[https://archive.org/details/b-24-d-4-a-0-c-8-d-555729-00-00 PCV-W (PCV-W121)]

[https://archive.org/details/recoverycd-system-2 PCV-W (PCV-W120)]

[https://archive.org/details/srcdv-26-b-8-enu-1 PCV-RX (PCV-RX260DS) (Disc 1)] - [https://archive.org/details/srcdv-26-b-2-enu-2 (Disc 2)]

[https://archive.org/details/pcvrx360ds PCV-RX (PCV-RX360DS)]

[https://archive.org/details/pcvrx360ds-crack PCV-RX (PCV-RX360DS)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcv-rx405-recovery-discs PCV-RX405]

[https://archive.org/details/ucv-045-xeumb-8-d-1 PCV-RX (PCV-RX500)]

[https://archive.org/details/pcv-rx500 PCV-RX (PCV-RX500)]

[https://archive.org/details/pcv-rx500-recovery PCV-RX (PCV-RX500)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-system-pcv-rx-600 PCV-RX (PCV-RX600)]

[https://archive.org/details/vaio-pcvrx600 PCV-RX (PCV-RX600/PCV-RX600P)]

[https://archive.org/details/Sony-Vaio-PCV-RX700-Recovery-Media PCV-RX (PCV-RX700)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-recovery-cd-1996 PCV-70/PCV-90]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcv70-pcv90-software-library PCV-70/PCV-90]

[https://archive.org/details/pcv100cracked PCV-100/PCV-120]

[https://archive.org/details/vaio_space_must_be_known PCV-2xx]

[https://archive.org/details/Sony_VAIO_PCV200 PCV-200]

[https://archive.org/details/pcv-220-240 PCV-220/PCV-240]

[https://archive.org/details/pcv220240 PCV-220/PCV-240]

[https://archive.org/details/ucv-070-xeumb-6-d-2 PCV-RZ (PCV-RZ10/PCV-RZ800)]

[https://archive.org/details/vaio-pcv-rz20-series-restore-discs PCV-RZ (PCV-RZ20)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcv-rz46g PCV-RZ (PCV-RZ46G)]

[https://archive.org/details/vaio-pcvrz50g PCV-RZ (PCV-RZ50G)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcv-lx-95-g-recoverydvd PCV-LX (PCV-LX95G)]

[https://archive.org/details/SRCDV28B7_0_ENU1_2 PCV-LX (PCV-LX700/PCV-LX800)]

[https://archive.org/details/pcv-lx920 PCV-LX (PCV-LX920)]

[https://archive.org/details/vaio-pcv-v-1 PCV-V (PCV-V1)]

[https://archive.org/details/pcv-v300g-dvd PCV-V (PCV-V300G)]

[https://archive.org/details/pcv-v300g PCV-V (PCV-V300G)]

[https://archive.org/details/srcdv-72-d-2_202108 PCV-E (System Recovery)] - [https://archive.org/details/arcdv-70 (Application Recovery)]

[https://archive.org/details/sonysystemrecoverycdvaiopcv-r545versionv19.02000 PCV-R]

[https://archive.org/details/sony_vaio_pcv-j150_system_recovery PCV-J]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcv-mx-2-vmware-vm PCV-MX]

[https://archive.org/details/PCVMXS20DiskImage.7z PCV-MXS]

===VGN===

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-vgn-ar51j-recovery-discs VGN-AR (VGN-AR51J)]

[https://archive.org/details/disc-1_202207 VGN-AR (VGN-AR31S)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-8-w-1-l-recovery-dvd-1 VGN-AR]

[https://archive.org/details/recoverydisc-1_202204 VGN-NS (VGN-NS21S)]

[https://archive.org/details/VGN-NS230E VGN-NS (VGN-NS230E)]

[https://archive.org/details/VGN-SZ3XP VGN-SZ (VGN-SZ3XP)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-vgn-sz3vwp_x-recovery-discs VGN-SZ (VGN-SZ3VWP/X) (English)]

[https://archive.org/details/vgn-sz-3-vwp-x-system-sicherheitskopie_202407 VGN-SZ (VGN-SZ3VWP/X) (German)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-vgn-sz38gp-restore-media VGN-SZ (VGN-SZ38GP)]

[https://archive.org/details/sz-4-xmn-applications VGN-SZ (VGN-SZ4XMN)]

[https://archive.org/details/VAIO_VGN_SZ430N_Recovery VGN-SZ (VGN-SZ430N)]

[https://archive.org/details/SonyVaioPCG6S4MVistaPL VGN-SZ (Premium VGN-SZ6)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-vgn-sz61vn-recovery-discs VGN-SZ (VGN-SZ61VN/WN)]

[https://archive.org/details/VAIOVGN-SZ645PRecovery VGN-SZ (VGN-SZ645P)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-vgn-sz-71-wn-recovery-partition VGN-SZ (VGN-SZ7WN) (Recovery Partition)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-vgn-ux27gn-recoverydisc VGN-UX (VGN-UX27GN)]

[https://archive.org/details/vaio-ux280p-recovery-disc-iso VGN-UX (VGN-UX280P)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vgn-ux-280-p-recovery-dvd VGN-UX (VGN-UX280P)]

[https://archive.org/details/vaio-vgn-ux380n-recovery-disc-iso VGN-UX (VGN-UX380N)]

[https://archive.org/details/vaio-vgnux-280-p-oem-partition-win-xp VGN-UX (VGN-UX280P) OEM Partition]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-ngn-ux-380-n-recovery-partition VGN-UX (VGN-UX380N) OEM Partition]

[https://archive.org/details/recovery-c-drive-factory VGN-UX (VGN-UX58) OEM Partition]

[https://archive.org/details/vgn-ux-72-recoverydisc-1 VGN-UX (VGN-UX72)]

[https://archive.org/details/ux91ns-recovery VGN-UX (VGN-UX91NS) (Windows XP SP2) OEM Partition]

[https://archive.org/details/vaio-vgn-ux92ns-recovery-partition VGN-UX (VGN-UX92NS) OEM Partition]

[https://archive.org/details/VGNFW510F VGN-FW (VGN-FW510F)]

[https://archive.org/details/jp.sony.vaiovgnfwfr VGN-FW (VGN-FW54E)]

[https://archive.org/details/vgn-fw_recovery VGN-FW (VGN-FW54E) (VAIO Library upload)] - [https://download.vaiolibrary.com/recoverydiscs/vgn-fw/vgn-fw54e Mirror: VAIO Library servers]

[https://archive.org/details/VAIOPCG3D1MRecoveryMedia VGN-FW]

[https://archive.org/details/vgn140e-recovery-disc VGN-FW (VGN-FW140E)]

[https://archive.org/details/vaio-vgn-bx-740-recovery-disc-1-of-2 VGN-BX (VGN-BX740)]

[https://archive.org/details/VGN-BX760P VGN-BX (VGN-BX760P)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-vgn-fs-315m-xp VGN-FS (VGN-FS315M)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-vgn-fs600-system-recovery VGN-FS (VGN-FS600)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-recovery VGN-FS (VGN-FS700)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-vgn-tx600p-series-recovery-discs VGN-TX (VGN-TX600P)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-vgn-tx750p-recovery-discs VGN-TX (VGN-TX750P)]

[https://archive.org/details/vgntx770p-recoverydiscs VGN-TX (VGN-TX770P)]

[https://archive.org/details/vaio-vgn-p80h-recovery VGN-P (VGN-P80H)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-vgn-p530h-recovery-discs VGN-P (VGN-P530H)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony_p788k VGN-P (VGN-P788K) (Modified OS, however recovery partition is original)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-vgn-p11z-restore-discs VGN-P11Z]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-vgn-cr-13-g-system-recovery-disc-1 VGN-CR (VGN-CR13G)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vgncr220e-recovery VGN-CR (VGN-CR220E)]

[https://archive.org/details/VGN-AW180Yrecovery VGN-AW (VGN-AW180Y)]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/recoverydiscs/vgn-aw/vgn-aw41zf VGN-AW (VGN-AW41ZF)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vgn-aw-recovery VGN-AW (VGN-AW420D)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-system-recovery-dvd-vgn-fz-200-e-recoverydisc-1 VGN-FZ (VGN-FZ200E)]

[https://archive.org/details/vaio-vgn-fz-200-n-disk-1_202502 VGN-FZ (VGN-FZ200N)]

[https://archive.org/details/vaio-vgn-fz-300-e-fz-400-e-fz-4000-e-disk-2 VGN-FZ VGN-FZ300E/FZ400E/FZ4000E)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-recoverydisc-1 VGN-NR]

[https://archive.org/details/vaio-vgn-nr-360-e-recovery VGN-NR (VGN-NR360E)]

[https://archive.org/details/vaio-vgn-a517b VGN-A]

[https://archive.org/details/eb-6-e-80-b-6-ec-57312-f-sony-vaio-pcg-4-lp-hard-disk-image-80-gb-00-00 VGN-TZ (VGN-TZ170N) (Whole Disk Image)]

[https://archive.org/details/sonyvaio-vgn-tz21wn-recovery-media-set VGN-TZ (VGN-TZ21WN)]

[https://archive.org/details/vgn-tz_recovery VGN-TZ (VGN-TZ31MN) (VAIO Library upload) (Recovery WIM)]

[https://archive.org/details/vgn-fe660g VGN-FE]

[https://archive.org/details/VGNZ11VRNRecoveryMediaRUS VGN-Z (Russian)]

[https://archive.org/details/SonyVaioU50 VGN-U50 Recovery DVD]

[https://archive.org/details/vaio-u8g-dump VGN-U8G Hard Drive dump]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-u-70-p-cd-1 VGN-U70P Recovery CD set]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-u-70-p-dvd VGN-U70P Recovery DVD]

[https://archive.org/details/vaio-u-71u-j-system-recovery-windowsxp-sp-2-cd-1-of-3 VGN-U71P Recovery CD set]

[https://archive.org/details/vaio-u71u-j-system-recovery-windowsxp-sp2-dvd VGN-U71P Recovery DVD]

[https://archive.org/details/vaio71p-recovery-partition VGN-U71P OEM Partition]

[https://archive.org/details/sonyvaiou750p VGN-U750P Recovery CD&DVD]

[https://archive.org/details/vaio-u750p-rec-cd VGN-U750P Recovery CD set]

[https://archive.org/details/vaio-u750p-rec-cd VGN-U750P OEM Partition]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/recoverydiscs/vgn-sr VGN-SR]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/recoverydiscs/vgn-tt VGN-TT]

===VGC===

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-vgc-lm1e-recovery-disks VGC-LM]

[https://archive.org/details/vgc-ra840g VGC-RA (VGC-RA840G)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-ra-826-g-rdvd-1 VGC-RA (VGC-RA826G) Disk 1] - [https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-ra-826-g-rdvd-2 Disk 2]

[https://archive.org/details/vgc-js-4-eg VGC-JS]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vgc-lt-25-e-recoverydisc-1-2 VGC-LT (VGC-LT25E)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-vgc-lt32e-recovery-partition VGC-LT (VGC-LT32E)]

[https://archive.org/details/VGCLS25E2007 VGC-LS]

[https://archive.org/details/rdvd-1 VGC-RB (VGC-RB30G)]

[https://archive.org/details/vaio-vgc-rb-40-g-series-system-recovery-dvd-1-2 VGC-RB (VGC-RB40G)]

[https://archive.org/details/pcg272m-recovery VGC-LA]

===VGX===

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-vgx-tp1dtv-recovery VGX-TP (VGX-TP1DTV)]

===VPC===

[https://archive.org/details/Sony_VAIO_VPC-Z21X9R VPCZ2]

[https://archive.org/details/vaiovpcz23v9r VPCZ2 (OEM Partition)]

[https://archive.org/details/vpc-l116fx VPCL]

[https://archive.org/details/vpcm-13-m-1-e VPCM]

[https://archive.org/details/vpcz1-recovery VPCZ1 (VAIO Library upload)]

[https://archive.org/details/vaiovpcz23v9r VPCZ2]

[https://archive.org/details/Sony.VAIO.VPCF115FM.Recovery.Media.1.of.1 VPCF1 (VPCF115FM)]

[https://archive.org/details/vaiorecoverydiscs VPCF1 (VPCF11C5E)]

[https://archive.org/details/vpcf131m VPCF1 (VPCF131FM)]

[https://archive.org/details/recoverydisc-1_202411 VPCF1 (VPCF136FM)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-vpceb3s1e-recovery-media-english-turkish VPCEB]

[https://archive.org/details/vaiovpceb23fmrecovery_202303 VPCEB (VPCEB23FM) (Best Buy USA)]

[https://archive.org/details/vpceb-1-e-0-e-recovery-disc-2-of-3-windows-7-64-bit VPCEB (VPCEB1E0E)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vpcel13fx VPCEL]

[https://archive.org/details/sonyvaiovpclaptoprestore VPCEG (VPCEG37FM)]

[https://archive.org/details/VPCEG10FB_BR VPCEG (VPCEG10FB)]

[https://archive.org/details/vaio-eg-eh-ej-series VPCEH/VPCEJ]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/recoverydiscs/vpcee/vpcee21fx/ VPCEE]

[https://archive.org/details/recoverydisc-1 VPCCW]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-vcp-p11-restore-discs VPCP (VPCP11S1E)]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/recoverydiscs/vpcca VPCCA]

[https://archive.org/details/VPCX115LG VPCX (VPCX115LG)]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/recoverydiscs/vpcsb VPCSB]

===SV===

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-sve1111-restore-discs SVE11 (Windows 7, ISO)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-sve1111-recovery-usb SVE11 (Windows 7, USB)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-sve1711f1ew-recovery-usb SVE1711F1EW (Windows 7, USB)]

[https://archive.org/details/sve-17-recovery SVE1711C5E (Windows 7, USB, top model)]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-swe171-recovery SVE171]

[https://archive.org/details/vaiofit14e_recovery SVF14]

Recovery discs can have multiple names: Recovery Discs, Recovery Disks, Recovery Media, Recovery Media CD, Recovery DVD, Recovery CD.

Useful Resources and Links

2025-02-18T08:38:19Z

Resident007: /* Sony.jp VAIO website */

This page contains links to external websites where you can find useful information related to Sony VAIO devices. If the links are dead, please copy and paste the URL on the [https://web.archive.org WayBack Machine].

We offer no warranty on what you will find on websites external to the VAIO Library. See [[VAIO_Library:General_disclaimer|VAIO Library's General Disclaimer]] for more information.

== Sony.jp VAIO website ==
{| class="wikitable"
|-
|[https://www.sony.jp/support/vaio/ '''Main page''']
|[https://www.sony.jp/support/vaio/products/ '''Products page''']
|[https://www.sony.jp/support/vaio/products/pcg/ '''PCG page''']
|-
|[https://www.sony.jp/support/vaio/products/pcv/ '''PCV page''']
|[https://www.sony.jp/support/vaio/products/vgn/ '''VGN page''']
|[https://www.sony.jp/support/vaio/products/vgc/ '''VGC page''']
|-
|[https://www.sony.jp/support/vaio/products/vpc/ '''VPC page''']
|[https://www.sony.jp/support/vaio/products/vgx/ '''VGX page''']
|[https://www.sony.jp/support/vaio/products/sv/ '''SV page''']
|}

==VAIO software==

[https://archive.org/details/sony-windows-vista-express-upgrade Sony VAIO Windows Vista Express Upgrade]

[https://archive.org/details/sony_mdclip_editor_1.0j Sony MDclip Editor for MDS-DL1]

[https://archive.org/details/SonyDirectVAIOXG9 SonyVAIODirect]

[https://archive.org/details/jp.sony.omgjbox SonicStage Digital Archive]

[https://archive.org/details/vaio-clock-version-1.0 VAIO Clock Screensaver v1.0]

[https://archive.org/details/VAIO-clock-screensaver-pl1.0 VAIO Clock Screensaver PL1.0]

[https://archive.org/details/tiny-aibo-2.1-vaio-c1-picturebook Tiny AIBO 2.1 for VAIO C1 Picturebook]

[https://archive.org/details/tiny-aibo-3.1 Tiny AIBO 3.1 for Sony VAIO XP]

[https://archive.org/details/corel-instanton-xrossmediabar-xmb-linux-for-sony-vaio-p-series Corel InstantON XrossMediaBar XMB Linux for Sony VAIO P Series]

[https://archive.org/details/com.sony.picturegearstudio PictureGear Studio Digital Archive]

==Useful VAIO related sites==
[https://anniversary-net.com/furui/category/vaio/ Anniversary-Net]

[https://vaio-ux-plaza.arjanvlek.nl/ VAIO UX Plaza]

==Notebookreview Sony VAIO reviews ==
Notebookreview has shut down their website on the 31st January 2022. '''All those links are viewable on the [https://web.archive.org WayBack Machine].''' Oldest to newest.

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-fs680-review-pics-specs/ Sony VAIO FS680 Review Part 1] - [http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-fs-review-part-2 Part 2]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-pcg-frv27-review/ Sony Vaio PCG-FRV27 Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-v505-notebook-review/ Sony VAIO V505 Notebook Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-grt-review/ Sony VAIO GRT Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-z1-review/ Sony VAIO Z1 Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-tr-series-tr5-review-pics-specs/ Sony VAIO TR Series TR5 Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-u50-review-pics-specs/ Sony VAIO U50 Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-x505-review-pics-specs/ Sony VAIO X505 Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-t-review-pics-specs/ Sony VAIO T Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-s260-review-pics-specs/ Sony VAIO S260 Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-u750-review-pics-specs/ Sony VAIO U750 Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-vgf-ap1-mp3-player-review-pics-specs/ Sony VAIO VGF-AP1 MP3 Player Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-k-series-review-pics-specs/ Sony VAIO K Series Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-b-review-pics-specs/ Sony VAIO B Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-s360-review-pics-specs/ Sony VAIO S360 Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-s380-review-pics-specs/ Sony VAIO S380 Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-fs680-review-pics-specs/ Sony VAIO FS680 Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-s460-review-pics-specs/ Sony VAIO S460 Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-s270-review-pics-specs/ Sony VAIO S270 Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-t350-review-pics-specs/ Sony VAIO T350 Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/news-bits-new-sony-vaio-s580-electrovaya-review-notebook-stickers-averatec-3700/ News Bits: New Sony VAIO S580, Electrovaya Review, Notebook Stickers, Averatec 3700]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-fj-series-notebook-review-pics-specs/ Sony VAIO FJ Series Notebook Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-s550-review-pics-specs/ Sony VAIO S550 Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-bx-review-pics-specs/ Sony VAIO BX Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-fe-review-pics-specs/ Sony VAIO FE Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-sz-review-pics-specs/ Sony VAIO SZ Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-fe590-review-pics-specs/ Sony VAIO FE590 Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-fj270-review-pics-specs/ Sony VAIO FJ270 Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-tx-ultraportable-review-pics-specs/ Sony VAIO TX Ultraportable Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-sz280pc-review-pics-specs/ Sony VAIO SZ280P/C Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/news-bits-fujitsu-b6210-thinkpads-to-integrate-cingular-edge-100-laptops-tested-sony-ux50-reviewed/ News Bits: Fujitsu B6210, ThinkPads to Integrate Cingular EDGE, $100 Laptops Tested, Sony UX50 Reviewed]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-sz2-review-pics-specs/ Sony VAIO SZ2 Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-bx540-review-pics-specs/ Sony VAIO BX540 Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-c-review/ Sony VAIO C Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-n-laptop-review/ Sony VAIO N Laptop Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-sz-vs-apple-macbook-comparison-review/ Sony VAIO SZ Vs. Apple MacBook Comparison Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-fe-review/ Sony VAIO FE Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-tx850p-review/ Sony VAIO TX850p Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-sz-review-japanese-version/ Sony VAIO SZ Review (Japanese Version)]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-tz-review/ Sony VAIO TZ Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-cr-review/ Sony VAIO CR Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-fz-review/ Sony VAIO FZ Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-tz-review-2/ Sony VAIO TZ Review 2]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-g-series-review/ Sony VAIO G Series Review Page 1] - [http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-g-series-review-page-2/ Page 2]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-nr-review/ Sony VAIO NR Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-sz6-user-review/ Sony VAIO SZ6 User Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-fw-review/ Sony VAIO FW Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-fw139eh-user-review/ Sony VAIO FW139E/H User Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-p-review/ Sony VAIO P Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-cs-review/ Sony VAIO CS Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-y-review/ Sony VAIO Y Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-ea-review/ Sony VAIO EA Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-ec-review/ Sony VAIO EC Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-p-netbook-update-review/ Sony VAIO P Netbook (Update) Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-f-review/ Sony VAIO F Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-y-yb-review/ Sony VAIO Y (YB) Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-s-review/ Sony VAIO S Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-t-t13122cxs-review/ Sony VAIO T (T13122CXS) Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-fit-15-review/ Sony VAIO Fit 15 Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-pro-11-review/ Sony VAIO Pro 11 Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-duo-13-review/ Sony VAIO Duo 13 Review]

==Notebookreview archive==

These are some useful Notebookreview pages/reviews about non-VAIO laptops. Mostly pages the VAIO Library team have interest in. '''All those links are viewable on the [https://web.archive.org WayBack Machine].'''

[http://www.notebookreview.com/news/ces-2007-vista-sideshow-in-hp-fujitsu-lg-and-asus-notebooks/ CES 2007: Vista SideShow in HP, Fujitsu, LG and Asus Notebooks]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/asus-w5f-review-pics-specs/ Asus W5F Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/asus-a8js-review-pics-specs/ Asus A8Js Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/hp-pavilion-zx5000-review-pics-specs/ HP Pavilion ZX5000 Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/hp-pavilion-dv8000-review-pics-specs/ HP Pavilion dv8000 Review] - [http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/hp-dv8000t-review-pics-specs/ dv8000t]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/hp-pavilion-dv4000-review-pics-specs/ HP Pavilion DV4000 Review]

[http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/hp-dv5000t-review-pics-specs/ HP dv5000t Review]

PCG-GT

2025-02-11T22:26:04Z

Resident007: /* Overview */

== Overview ==
[[File:PCG-GT JP.jpg|thumb|Sony VAIO PCG-GT3 promotional image]]The Sony VAIO PCG-GT was a line of ultraportable subnotebooks with a built-in digital camera sold by Sony exclusively in Japan from November 2000 to late 2001.

The original model, PCG-GT1 released on November 18, 2000. A higher-end model featuring darker colors and larger hard drive, PCG-GT3 (/K) was released on June 30, 2001.

Both models featured a large camera with 10x optical zoom on the side, intended to be primarily used for taking pictures that could later be shared on an image sharing service ImageStation, and for video recording and live streaming to PercasTV service, one of the first live video streaming services.
[[File:PCG-GT1-handheld.png|thumb|PCG-GT1 in camcorder mode]]
Since the PCG-GT is designed like a sort of camcorder, the lid is able to rotate 180°, meaning you can close the lid with the display on the outside. The camera is also able to rotate vertically, allowing for a fairly pleasing experience when taking pictures or videos. The PCG-GT is able to capture pictures up to 640x480 resolution, and videos up to 640x480 (15FPS) or 320x240 (30FPS) in AVI format.

Build quality is good, made out of metal for the lid, and plastic for the rest. The keyboard, being much smaller than full size because of the form factor of the device, is still usable, however don't expect a very pleasing experience. No trackpad is provided, only a trackpoint.

A total of 5000 PCG-GT1 units were made. The number of PCG-GT3 units produced is unknown, but is likely the same as for PCG-GT1.

Some of the design choices featured in PCG-GT line were carried over to the [[PCG-U]] line in 2002.

==Detailed Specs==
There were two models released, PCG-GT1 and PCG-GT3 (/K). Both of them were very similar aside from a few minor differences in appearance, different hard drives, and Windows 2000 instead of ME in PCG-GT3. Both featured a Transmeta Crusoe TM5600 processor built on [[wikipedia:Very_long_instruction_word|VLIW]] architecture, similar to the TM5800 found in PCG-U series, however the one in PCG-GT is earlier and thus slower.

====PCG-GT1====
[[File:PCG-GT1.png|thumb|Sony VAIO PCG-GT1]]
'''Processor:''' Transmeta Crusoe TM5600 600MHz

'''Graphics:''' ATI RAGE Mobility M1, 8MB VRAM

'''Memory:''' 128MB, 256MB max.

'''Display:''' 6.4" 1024×768

'''Camera:''' 1/4-inch CCD 680,000 pixels (340,000 effective pixels) f=3.3-33mm (42-420mm in 35mm camera equivalent) F1.7-2.2

'''Storage:''' 20GB 2.5-inch IDE HDD

'''Weight:''' 1.1kg

'''Original OS:''' Microsoft Windows Millenium Edition

'''MSRP:''' ¥285,800

====PCG-GT3 (/K)====
[[File:PCG-GT3-K.png|thumb|Sony VAIO PCG-GT3/K]]
'''Processor:''' Transmeta Crusoe TM5600 600MHz

'''Graphics:''' ATI RAGE Mobility M1, 8MB VRAM

'''Memory:''' 128MB, 256MB max.

'''Display:''' 6.4" 1024×768

'''Camera:''' 1/4-inch CCD 680,000 pixels (340,000 effective pixels) f=3.3-33mm (42-420mm in 35mm camera equivalent) F1.7-2.2

'''Storage:''' 30GB 2.5-inch IDE HDD

'''Weight:''' 1.1kg

'''Original OS:''' Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional

'''MSRP:''' ¥230,000

==Daily Usage Today==
Much like back then, the PCG-GT is slow, and is only good enough for light tasks of its era. Camera is not acceptable by modern standards, but was fairly good back then. There is little to no usability in modern tasks for any PCG-GT model.

The PCG-GT is a very rare collector's item, and is rarely found for sale anywhere.

==Resources==

===== Recovery Discs =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-GT1
|[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-gt1-system-recovery-discs Internet Archive]
|}

===== Hard drive images =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-GT1
|[https://archive.org/details/PCG-GT1-disk Internet Archive]
|}

===== Manuals and Useful Links =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-GT1
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio-pcg-gt-1-manual Internet Archive]
|-
|PCG-GT1 (English translated)
|[https://archive.org/details/pcg-gt1-english-manual Internet Archive]
|}

===== Disassembly Guide =====
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DleoLLrvpdc Sony VAIO PCG-GT1 Disassembly Guide]

==Credits==
[https://sony.com Sony], [https://pc.watch.impress.co.jp/ pc.watch.impress.co.jp]

C1* (First Revision)

2025-01-28T16:03:51Z

Resident007: /* Hard drive images */

==Overview==
[[File:PCG-C1 Original.png|alt=PCG-C1 (First Revision)|thumb|PCG-C1 (First Revision)]]The first revision of the Sony VAIO PCG-C1 was released in August 1998 with the last model of the range being released in Spring 1999. The PCG-C1 was first released on September 19, 1998, in Japan only, with an initial production run of 5,000 units. It was the first laptop with a webcam, aka the "Motion Eye", thus branded as the “PictureBook”, which rotates 180 degrees so that you could take pictures with it. There is a "capture" button located above the keyboard on the right which is optimal for taking pictures outside, without using the keyboard. It came with some bundled software such as the Camera Capture Utility which allowed for taking pictures easily and adding effects to the camera. A video demonstration will be shown soon in the resources section. To the left of the Motion Eye, there is a microphone. Below the screen and Sony logo, there are seven LEDs, for indication of battery charge, power, caps/number/scroll lock and more. These lights are also visible with the laptop fully closed. [[File:Taking a picture with the PCG-C1.jpg|alt=Taking a picture with the PCG-C1|thumb|Taking a picture with the PCG-C1]]
Unlike the other C1-Series laptops, this one is opened with a latch that one pulls, which is found on the front of the laptop when it is closed. The power is not turned on with a button, but with a latch located on the left of the laptop. [[File:Official Sony PCG-C1 image.jpg|alt=Official Sony PCG-C1 image|thumb|Official Sony PCG-C1 image]]Next to the latch which is used for opening the laptop, there is a "P" button, which is referred to by Sony as the "PPK (programmable power key)". This key could be used to start programs, using software called "PPK Setup". It could also be used in conjunction with other keys such as "Ctrl" or "Shift" to open other programs. One could open up programs while the laptop was closed too.

The Intel Pentium and Microsoft Windows stickers were affixed beside the top left corner of the screen. The laptop itself had a purple color with slightly lighter purple buttons. It uses a regular Sony 16V VAIO power supply as used in most VAIOs at the time, which was located at the back of the laptop, behind the display. They also included a lot of ports: modem, one USB, PCMCIA card slot, i.Link, headphone, microphone, infrared and a proprietary display signal port which used an adapter to support VGA.

The laptop came bundled with a charger, a CD-ROM drive (depending on configuration), floppy drive, VGA adapter cable, phone cable, spare pointing nubs, USB cable for the floppy drive and a battery. Unlike the other PCG-C1 revisions, there were no extended battery options available. There were also some optional accessories.

It came in 5 different models, the PCG-C1 (the original model) and the ones that followed, the PCG-C1X/S/F/R, which all had a single mono speaker. The interior of this laptop (the motherboard) is virtually the same as the PCG-505 as it was released around a year after. It shows Sony’s miniaturization skills, making a laptop so small yet powerful (for the time).

There were 5000 units of the original PCG-C1 model made, with later models (PCG-C1X/S/F/R) being made in larger production runs.
==Detailed Specs==
'''Processor:''' Mobile Pentium MMX 233MHz (PCG-C1), Mobile Pentium MMX 266MHz (PCG-C1X/S/F/R)

'''Graphics:''' NeoMagic MagicMedia256AV (NM2200)

'''Chipset:''' Intel 430TX

'''Memory:''' 64MB (Standard), 128MB (Official maximum of PCG-C1X/S/F/R) or 96MB (Official maximum of PCG-C1)

'''Display:''' 8.9” TFT LCD XGA 1024×480

'''Storage:''' 3.2GB IDE HDD (PCG-C1), 4.3GB IDE HDD (PCG-C1X/S/F/R)

'''Weight:''' 1.1kg

'''MSRP:''' ~€2000

== Problems ==
[[File:Vinegar Syndrome.png|alt=Vinegar Syndrome|thumb|Vinegar Syndrome on a PCG-C1XG]]
A problem with this series and many other older ones is the so called "vinegar syndrome", which happens when the polarizer film from the LCD breaks down. This causes some nasty looking effects on the display, as well as a vinegar smell, hence the name "vinegar syndrome".

To fix this, you must replace the damaged polarizer film with a new one. A video and polarizer replacement is linked in the Resources tab.

As with a lot of old laptops, this laptop has the problem of melting rubber feet. There is no proper solution, apart from 3D-Printing the feet with TPU plastic. The STL can be found under the "Resources" tab.

==Daily Usage Today==
The PCG-C1 is definitely still usable today for basic office tasks like Word documents, Excel spreadsheets and PowerPoint presentations. Retro gaming is possible, but with a very limited selection of games. Taking pictures with is would be fun and creative, with the nice rotating camera. The resolution is definitely not good by today's standards but it is fine to take some nice pictures. Any modern tasks like web browsing are pretty much impossible on this laptop, with the exception of very basic static HTML pages with no or very low resolution images.

==Resources==

===== Recovery Discs =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-C1
|[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-c1-recovery-disc Internet Archive]
|-
|PCG-C1S
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio-pcg-c1s-disk1 Internet Archive]
|-
|PCG-C1X
|[https://archive.org/details/sony-pcg-c-1-x-recovery-cds-version-g-13.0 Internet Archive]
|}

===== Hard drive images =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-C1S
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio-pcg-c1s-win98-japan Internet Archive]
|}

===== Manuals and Useful links =====
[https://pc.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/article/980928/stapa16.htm PC-Watch page]

[https://archive.org/details/thingiverse-5316865 Replacement TPU feet model by Geoff]

[https://archive.org/details/thingiverse-5319381 Blank Battery cover model by Geoff]

===== Disassembly Guide =====
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0hY4R3QLoag Sony VAIO PCG-C1S Disassembly Guide]

[http://chachapi.way-nifty.com/weblog/2008/08/sony-vaio-pcg-c.html HDD replacement guide]

A polarizer replacement guide will be made shortly.

==Credits==
[https://sony.com/ Sony]

PCG-GT

2025-01-13T14:25:16Z

Resident007: /* PCG-GT1 */

== Overview ==
[[File:PCG-GT JP.jpg|thumb|Sony VAIO PCG-GT3 promotional image]]The Sony VAIO PCG-GT was a line of ultraportable subnotebooks with a built-in digital camera sold by Sony exclusively in Japan from November 2000 to late 2001.

The original model, PCG-GT1 released on November 18, 2000. A higher-end model featuring darker colors and larger hard drive, PCG-GT3 (/K) was released on June 30, 2001.

Both models featured a large camera on the side, intended to be primarily used for taking pictures that could later be shared on an image sharing service ImageStation, and for video recording and live streaming to PercasTV service, one of the first live video streaming services.
[[File:PCG-GT1-handheld.png|thumb|PCG-GT1 in camcorder mode]]
Since the PCG-GT is designed like a sort of camcorder, the lid is able to rotate 180°, meaning you can close the lid with the display on the outside. The camera is also able to rotate vertically, allowing for a fairly pleasing experience when taking pictures or videos. The PCG-GT is able to capture pictures up to 640x480 resolution, and videos up to 640x480 (15FPS) or 320x240 (30FPS) in AVI format.

Build quality is good, made out of metal for the lid, and plastic for the rest. The keyboard, being much smaller than full size because of the form factor of the device, is still usable, however don't expect a very pleasing experience. No trackpad is provided, only a trackpoint.

A total of 5000 PCG-GT1 units were made. The number of PCG-GT3 units produced is unknown, but is likely the same as for PCG-GT1.

Some of the design choices featured in PCG-GT line were carried over to the [[PCG-U]] line in 2002.

==Detailed Specs==
There were two models released, PCG-GT1 and PCG-GT3 (/K). Both of them were very similar aside from a few minor differences in appearance, different hard drives, and Windows 2000 instead of ME in PCG-GT3. Both featured a Transmeta Crusoe TM5600 processor built on [[wikipedia:Very_long_instruction_word|VLIW]] architecture, similar to the TM5800 found in PCG-U series, however the one in PCG-GT is earlier and thus slower.

====PCG-GT1====
[[File:PCG-GT1.png|thumb|Sony VAIO PCG-GT1]]
'''Processor:''' Transmeta Crusoe TM5600 600MHz

'''Graphics:''' ATI RAGE Mobility M1, 8MB VRAM

'''Memory:''' 128MB, 256MB max.

'''Display:''' 6.4" 1024×768

'''Camera:''' 1/4-inch CCD 680,000 pixels (340,000 effective pixels) f=3.3-33mm (42-420mm in 35mm camera equivalent) F1.7-2.2

'''Storage:''' 20GB 2.5-inch IDE HDD

'''Weight:''' 1.1kg

'''Original OS:''' Microsoft Windows Millenium Edition

'''MSRP:''' ¥285,800

====PCG-GT3 (/K)====
[[File:PCG-GT3-K.png|thumb|Sony VAIO PCG-GT3/K]]
'''Processor:''' Transmeta Crusoe TM5600 600MHz

'''Graphics:''' ATI RAGE Mobility M1, 8MB VRAM

'''Memory:''' 128MB, 256MB max.

'''Display:''' 6.4" 1024×768

'''Camera:''' 1/4-inch CCD 680,000 pixels (340,000 effective pixels) f=3.3-33mm (42-420mm in 35mm camera equivalent) F1.7-2.2

'''Storage:''' 30GB 2.5-inch IDE HDD

'''Weight:''' 1.1kg

'''Original OS:''' Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional

'''MSRP:''' ¥230,000

==Daily Usage Today==
Much like back then, the PCG-GT is slow, and is only good enough for light tasks of its era. Camera is not acceptable by modern standards, but was fairly good back then. There is little to no usability in modern tasks for any PCG-GT model.

The PCG-GT is a very rare collector's item, and is rarely found for sale anywhere.

==Resources==

===== Recovery Discs =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-GT1
|[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-gt1-system-recovery-discs Internet Archive]
|}

===== Hard drive images =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-GT1
|[https://archive.org/details/PCG-GT1-disk Internet Archive]
|}

===== Manuals and Useful Links =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-GT1
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio-pcg-gt-1-manual Internet Archive]
|-
|PCG-GT1 (English translated)
|[https://archive.org/details/pcg-gt1-english-manual Internet Archive]
|}

===== Disassembly Guide =====
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DleoLLrvpdc Sony VAIO PCG-GT1 Disassembly Guide]

==Credits==
[https://sony.com Sony], [https://pc.watch.impress.co.jp/ pc.watch.impress.co.jp]

PCG-GT

2025-01-13T14:23:39Z

Resident007: /* Overview */

== Overview ==
[[File:PCG-GT JP.jpg|thumb|Sony VAIO PCG-GT3 promotional image]]The Sony VAIO PCG-GT was a line of ultraportable subnotebooks with a built-in digital camera sold by Sony exclusively in Japan from November 2000 to late 2001.

The original model, PCG-GT1 released on November 18, 2000. A higher-end model featuring darker colors and larger hard drive, PCG-GT3 (/K) was released on June 30, 2001.

Both models featured a large camera on the side, intended to be primarily used for taking pictures that could later be shared on an image sharing service ImageStation, and for video recording and live streaming to PercasTV service, one of the first live video streaming services.
[[File:PCG-GT1-handheld.png|thumb|PCG-GT1 in camcorder mode]]
Since the PCG-GT is designed like a sort of camcorder, the lid is able to rotate 180°, meaning you can close the lid with the display on the outside. The camera is also able to rotate vertically, allowing for a fairly pleasing experience when taking pictures or videos. The PCG-GT is able to capture pictures up to 640x480 resolution, and videos up to 640x480 (15FPS) or 320x240 (30FPS) in AVI format.

Build quality is good, made out of metal for the lid, and plastic for the rest. The keyboard, being much smaller than full size because of the form factor of the device, is still usable, however don't expect a very pleasing experience. No trackpad is provided, only a trackpoint.

A total of 5000 PCG-GT1 units were made. The number of PCG-GT3 units produced is unknown, but is likely the same as for PCG-GT1.

Some of the design choices featured in PCG-GT line were carried over to the [[PCG-U]] line in 2002.

==Detailed Specs==
There were two models released, PCG-GT1 and PCG-GT3 (/K). Both of them were very similar aside from a few minor differences in appearance, different hard drives, and Windows 2000 instead of ME in PCG-GT3. Both featured a Transmeta Crusoe TM5600 processor built on [[wikipedia:Very_long_instruction_word|VLIW]] architecture, similar to the TM5800 found in PCG-U series, however the one in PCG-GT is earlier and thus slower.

====PCG-GT1====
[[File:PCG-GT1.png|thumb|Sony VAIO PCG-GT1]]
'''Processor:''' Transmeta Crusoe TM5600 600MHz

'''Graphics:''' ATI RAGE Mobility M1, 8MB VRAM

'''Memory:''' 128MB, max. 256MB

'''Display:''' 6.4" 1024×768

'''Camera:''' 1/4-inch CCD 680,000 pixels (340,000 effective pixels) f=3.3-33mm (42-420mm in 35mm camera equivalent) F1.7-2.2

'''Storage:''' 20GB 2.5-inch IDE HDD

'''Weight:''' 1.1kg

'''Original OS:''' Microsoft Windows Millenium Edition

'''MSRP:''' ¥285,800

====PCG-GT3 (/K)====
[[File:PCG-GT3-K.png|thumb|Sony VAIO PCG-GT3/K]]
'''Processor:''' Transmeta Crusoe TM5600 600MHz

'''Graphics:''' ATI RAGE Mobility M1, 8MB VRAM

'''Memory:''' 128MB, max. 256MB

'''Display:''' 6.4" 1024×768

'''Camera:''' 1/4-inch CCD 680,000 pixels (340,000 effective pixels) f=3.3-33mm (42-420mm in 35mm camera equivalent) F1.7-2.2

'''Storage:''' 30GB 2.5-inch IDE HDD

'''Weight:''' 1.1kg

'''Original OS:''' Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional

'''MSRP:''' ¥230,000

==Daily Usage Today==
Much like back then, the PCG-GT is slow, and is only good enough for light tasks of its era. Camera is not acceptable by modern standards, but was fairly good back then. There is little to no usability in modern tasks for any PCG-GT model.

The PCG-GT is a very rare collector's item, and is rarely found for sale anywhere.

==Resources==

===== Recovery Discs =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-GT1
|[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-gt1-system-recovery-discs Internet Archive]
|}

===== Hard drive images =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-GT1
|[https://archive.org/details/PCG-GT1-disk Internet Archive]
|}

===== Manuals and Useful Links =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-GT1
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio-pcg-gt-1-manual Internet Archive]
|-
|PCG-GT1 (English translated)
|[https://archive.org/details/pcg-gt1-english-manual Internet Archive]
|}

===== Disassembly Guide =====
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DleoLLrvpdc Sony VAIO PCG-GT1 Disassembly Guide]

==Credits==
[https://sony.com Sony], [https://pc.watch.impress.co.jp/ pc.watch.impress.co.jp]

PCG-GT

2024-12-22T08:53:20Z

Resident007:

== Overview ==
[[File:PCG-GT JP.jpg|thumb|Sony VAIO PCG-GT3 promotional image]]The Sony VAIO PCG-GT was a line of ultraportable subnotebooks with a built-in digital camera sold by Sony exclusively in Japan from November 2000 to late 2001.

The original model, PCG-GT1 released on November 18, 2000. A higher-end model featuring darker colors and larger hard drive, PCG-GT3 (/K) was released on June 30, 2001.

Both models featured a large camera on the side, intended to be primarily used for taking pictures that could later be shared on an image sharing service ImageStation, and for video recording and live streaming to PercasTV service, one of the first live video streaming services.
[[File:PCG-GT1-handheld.png|thumb|PCG-GT1 in camcorder mode]]
Since the PCG-GT is designed like a sort of camcorder, the lid is able to rotate 180°, meaning you can close the lid with the display on the outside. The camera is also able to rotate vertically, allowing for a fairly pleasing experience when taking pictures or videos. The PCG-GT is able to capture pictures up to 640x480 resolution, and videos up to 640x480 (15FPS) or 320x240 (30FPS) in AVI format.

Build quality is good, made out of metal for the lid, and plastic for the rest. The keyboard, being much smaller than full size because of the form factor of the device, is still usable, however don't expect a very pleasing experience. No trackpad is provided, only a trackpoint.

A total of 5000 PCG-GT1 units were made. The number of PCG-GT3 units produced is unknown, but is likely the same as for PCG-GT1.

Some of the design choices featured in PCG-GT line were carried over to the [[PCG-U]] line in 2002.

==Detailed Specs==
There were two models released, PCG-GT1 and PCG-GT3 (/K). Both of them were very similar aside from a few minor differences in appearance, different hard drives, and Windows 2000 instead of ME in PCG-GT3. Both featured a Transmeta Crusoe TM5600 processor built on [[wikipedia:Very_long_instruction_word|VLIW]] architecture, similar to the TM5800 found in PCG-U series, however the one in PCG-GT is earlier and thus slower.

====PCG-GT1====
[[File:PCG-GT1.png|thumb|Sony VAIO PCG-GT1]]
'''Processor:''' Transmeta Crusoe TM5600 600MHz

'''Graphics:''' ATI RAGE Mobility M1, 8MB VRAM

'''Memory:''' 128MB

'''Display:''' 6.4" 1024×768

'''Camera:''' 1/4-inch CCD 680,000 pixels (340,000 effective pixels) f=3.3-33mm (42-420mm in 35mm camera equivalent) F1.7-2.2

'''Storage:''' 20GB 2.5-inch IDE HDD

'''Weight:''' 1.1kg

'''Original OS:''' Microsoft Windows Millenium Edition

'''MSRP:''' ¥285,800

====PCG-GT3 (/K)====
[[File:PCG-GT3-K.png|thumb|Sony VAIO PCG-GT3/K]]
'''Processor:''' Transmeta Crusoe TM5600 600MHz

'''Graphics:''' ATI RAGE Mobility M1, 8MB VRAM

'''Memory:''' 128MB

'''Display:''' 6.4" 1024×768

'''Camera:''' 1/4-inch CCD 680,000 pixels (340,000 effective pixels) f=3.3-33mm (42-420mm in 35mm camera equivalent) F1.7-2.2

'''Storage:''' 30GB 2.5-inch IDE HDD

'''Weight:''' 1.1kg

'''Original OS:''' Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional

'''MSRP:''' ¥230,000

==Daily Usage Today==
Much like back then, the PCG-GT is slow, and is only good enough for light tasks of its era. Camera is not acceptable by modern standards, but was fairly good back then. There is little to no usability in modern tasks for any PCG-GT model.

The PCG-GT is a very rare collector's item, and is rarely found for sale anywhere.

==Resources==

===== Recovery Discs =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-GT1
|[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-gt1-system-recovery-discs Internet Archive]
|}

===== Hard drive images =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-GT1
|[https://archive.org/details/PCG-GT1-disk Internet Archive]
|}

===== Manuals and Useful Links =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-GT1
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio-pcg-gt-1-manual Internet Archive]
|-
|PCG-GT1 (English translated)
|[https://archive.org/details/pcg-gt1-english-manual Internet Archive]
|}

===== Disassembly Guide =====
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DleoLLrvpdc Sony VAIO PCG-GT1 Disassembly Guide]

==Credits==
[https://sony.com Sony], [https://pc.watch.impress.co.jp/ pc.watch.impress.co.jp]

PCG-GT

2024-12-22T00:37:50Z

Resident007: temp. removed link

== Overview ==
[[File:PCG-GT JP.jpg|thumb|Sony VAIO PCG-GT3 promotional image]]The Sony VAIO PCG-GT was a line of ultraportable subnotebooks with a built-in digital camera sold by Sony exclusively in Japan from November 2000 to late 2001.

The original model, PCG-GT1 released on November 18, 2000. A higher-end model featuring darker colors and larger hard drive, PCG-GT3 (/K) was released on June 30, 2001.

Both models featured a large camera on the side, intended to be primarily used for taking pictures that could later be shared on an image sharing service ImageStation, and for video recording and live streaming to PercasTV service, one of the first live video streaming services.
[[File:PCG-GT1-handheld.png|thumb|PCG-GT1 in camcorder mode]]
Since the PCG-GT is designed like a sort of camcorder, the lid is able to rotate 180°, meaning you can close the lid with the display on the outside. The camera is also able to rotate vertically, allowing for a fairly pleasing experience when taking pictures or videos. The PCG-GT is able to capture pictures up to 640x480 resolution, and videos up to 640x480 (15FPS) or 320x240 (30FPS) in AVI format.

Build quality is good, made out of metal for the lid, and plastic for the rest. The keyboard, being much smaller than full size because of the form factor of the device, is still usable, however don't expect a very pleasing experience. No trackpad is provided, only a trackpoint.

A total of 5000 PCG-GT1 units were made. The number of PCG-GT3 units produced is unknown, but is likely the same as for PCG-GT1.

Some of the design choices featured in PCG-GT line were carried over to the [[PCG-U]] line in 2002.

==Detailed Specs==
There were two models released, PCG-GT1 and PCG-GT3 (/K). Both of them were very similar aside from a few minor differences in appearance, different hard drives, and Windows 2000 instead of ME in PCG-GT3. Both featured a Transmeta Crusoe TM5600 processor built on [[wikipedia:Very_long_instruction_word|VLIW]] architecture, similar to the TM5800 found in PCG-U series, however the one in PCG-GT is earlier and thus slower.

====PCG-GT1====
[[File:PCG-GT1.png|thumb|Sony VAIO PCG-GT1]]
'''Processor:''' Transmeta Crusoe TM5600 600MHz

'''Graphics:''' ATI RAGE Mobility M1, 8MB VRAM

'''Memory:''' 128MB

'''Display:''' 6.4" 1024×768

'''Camera:''' 1/4-inch CCD 680,000 pixels (340,000 effective pixels) f=3.3-33mm (42-420mm in 35mm camera equivalent) F1.7-2.2

'''Storage:''' 20GB 2.5-inch IDE HDD

'''Weight:''' 1.1kg

'''Original OS:''' Microsoft Windows Millenium Edition

'''MSRP:''' ¥285,800

====PCG-GT3 (/K)====
[[File:PCG-GT3-K.png|thumb|Sony VAIO PCG-GT3/K]]
'''Processor:''' Transmeta Crusoe TM5600 600MHz

'''Graphics:''' ATI RAGE Mobility M1, 8MB VRAM

'''Memory:''' 128MB

'''Display:''' 6.4" 1024×768

'''Camera:''' 1/4-inch CCD 680,000 pixels (340,000 effective pixels) f=3.3-33mm (42-420mm in 35mm camera equivalent) F1.7-2.2

'''Storage:''' 30GB 2.5-inch IDE HDD

'''Weight:''' 1.1kg

'''Original OS:''' Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional

'''MSRP:''' ¥230,000

==Daily Usage Today==
Much like back then, the PCG-GT is slow, and is only good enough for light tasks of its era. Camera is not acceptable by modern standards, but was fairly good back then. There is little to no usability in modern tasks for any PCG-GT model.

The PCG-GT is a very rare collector's item, and is rarely found for sale anywhere.

==Resources==

===== Recovery Discs =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-GT1
|[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-gt1-system-recovery-discs Internet Archive]
|}

===== Hard drive images =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-GT1
|[https://archive.org/details/PCG-GT1-disk Internet Archive]
|}

===== Manuals and Useful Links =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-GT1
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio-pcg-gt-1-manual Internet Archive]
|-
|PCG-GT1 (English translated)
|[https://archive.org/details/pcg-gt1-english-manual Internet Archive]
|}

===== Disassembly Guide =====
Sony VAIO PCG-GT1 Disassembly Guide

==Credits==
[https://sony.com Sony], [https://pc.watch.impress.co.jp/ pc.watch.impress.co.jp]

PCG-GT

2024-12-22T00:36:40Z

Resident007: add disassembling guide

== Overview ==
[[File:PCG-GT JP.jpg|thumb|Sony VAIO PCG-GT3 promotional image]]The Sony VAIO PCG-GT was a line of ultraportable subnotebooks with a built-in digital camera sold by Sony exclusively in Japan from November 2000 to late 2001.

The original model, PCG-GT1 released on November 18, 2000. A higher-end model featuring darker colors and larger hard drive, PCG-GT3 (/K) was released on June 30, 2001.

Both models featured a large camera on the side, intended to be primarily used for taking pictures that could later be shared on an image sharing service ImageStation, and for video recording and live streaming to PercasTV service, one of the first live video streaming services.
[[File:PCG-GT1-handheld.png|thumb|PCG-GT1 in camcorder mode]]
Since the PCG-GT is designed like a sort of camcorder, the lid is able to rotate 180°, meaning you can close the lid with the display on the outside. The camera is also able to rotate vertically, allowing for a fairly pleasing experience when taking pictures or videos. The PCG-GT is able to capture pictures up to 640x480 resolution, and videos up to 640x480 (15FPS) or 320x240 (30FPS) in AVI format.

Build quality is good, made out of metal for the lid, and plastic for the rest. The keyboard, being much smaller than full size because of the form factor of the device, is still usable, however don't expect a very pleasing experience. No trackpad is provided, only a trackpoint.

A total of 5000 PCG-GT1 units were made. The number of PCG-GT3 units produced is unknown, but is likely the same as for PCG-GT1.

Some of the design choices featured in PCG-GT line were carried over to the [[PCG-U]] line in 2002.

==Detailed Specs==
There were two models released, PCG-GT1 and PCG-GT3 (/K). Both of them were very similar aside from a few minor differences in appearance, different hard drives, and Windows 2000 instead of ME in PCG-GT3. Both featured a Transmeta Crusoe TM5600 processor built on [[wikipedia:Very_long_instruction_word|VLIW]] architecture, similar to the TM5800 found in PCG-U series, however the one in PCG-GT is earlier and thus slower.

====PCG-GT1====
[[File:PCG-GT1.png|thumb|Sony VAIO PCG-GT1]]
'''Processor:''' Transmeta Crusoe TM5600 600MHz

'''Graphics:''' ATI RAGE Mobility M1, 8MB VRAM

'''Memory:''' 128MB

'''Display:''' 6.4" 1024×768

'''Camera:''' 1/4-inch CCD 680,000 pixels (340,000 effective pixels) f=3.3-33mm (42-420mm in 35mm camera equivalent) F1.7-2.2

'''Storage:''' 20GB 2.5-inch IDE HDD

'''Weight:''' 1.1kg

'''Original OS:''' Microsoft Windows Millenium Edition

'''MSRP:''' ¥285,800

====PCG-GT3 (/K)====
[[File:PCG-GT3-K.png|thumb|Sony VAIO PCG-GT3/K]]
'''Processor:''' Transmeta Crusoe TM5600 600MHz

'''Graphics:''' ATI RAGE Mobility M1, 8MB VRAM

'''Memory:''' 128MB

'''Display:''' 6.4" 1024×768

'''Camera:''' 1/4-inch CCD 680,000 pixels (340,000 effective pixels) f=3.3-33mm (42-420mm in 35mm camera equivalent) F1.7-2.2

'''Storage:''' 30GB 2.5-inch IDE HDD

'''Weight:''' 1.1kg

'''Original OS:''' Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional

'''MSRP:''' ¥230,000

==Daily Usage Today==
Much like back then, the PCG-GT is slow, and is only good enough for light tasks of its era. Camera is not acceptable by modern standards, but was fairly good back then. There is little to no usability in modern tasks for any PCG-GT model.

The PCG-GT is a very rare collector's item, and is rarely found for sale anywhere.

==Resources==

===== Recovery Discs =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-GT1
|[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-gt1-system-recovery-discs Internet Archive]
|}

===== Hard drive images =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-GT1
|[https://archive.org/details/PCG-GT1-disk Internet Archive]
|}

===== Manuals and Useful Links =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-GT1
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio-pcg-gt-1-manual Internet Archive]
|-
|PCG-GT1 (English translated)
|[https://archive.org/details/pcg-gt1-english-manual Internet Archive]
|}

===== Disassembly Guide =====
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=catrbVPw6z0 Sony VAIO PCG-GT1 Disassembly Guide]

==Credits==
[https://sony.com Sony], [https://pc.watch.impress.co.jp/ pc.watch.impress.co.jp]

VGN-U

2024-12-17T17:25:35Z

Resident007: added a pic of 256mb memory module

==Overview==
[[File:VGN-U-Promo.png|thumb|434x434px|VGN-U Promotional Image[[File:VGN-U750P docked.jpg|thumb|VGN-U750P docked and running original Windows XP installation]]]]
[[File:VGN-U Display-design.png|thumb|VGN-U custom display panel design allows for a thin resistive touch screen that, however, almost does not bend when pressed with a stylus]]
The Sony VAIO VGN-U was a line of subnotebooks sold by Sony from May 2004 to February 2005, which succeeded the [[PCG-U]] line and was the first "U" to be released outside Japan. At their release, they were the smallest independent computers running Windows XP and the most powerful high-end subnotebooks at the time, being roughly the size of two DVD cases stacked on top of each other.

The first models of the series to come out were the VGN-U50 and the VGN-U70P in Japan. The American model, the VGN-U750P, came out in December 2004. A two models for Asian markets were introduced as well, specifically the VGN-U8C for Chinese market and the VGN-U8G for Singapore.

The VGN-U lineup is also known as one of the only three Sony VAIO computers that had a transflective display (the other ones are the [[PCG-C2GPS]] but it had a separate backlight module making it more of a reflective display whereas backlight is built into the VGN-U display and PCG-U101, which has a truly transflective panel).

==Detailed Specs==
The VGN-U lineup had a total of 6 models, some of which either had minor differences or were rebranded versions of previous models for other markets.[[File:U750P-85Hz.jpg|thumb|VGN-U750P demonstrating 85Hz of actual display refresh rate in TFTTEST utility]]The custom proprietary display of VGN-U is seemingly capable of refresh rates up to 85Hz; although the integrated GPU outputs 60Hz signal, the display panel likely uses a technology called [[wikipedia:Motion_interpolation|motion interpolation]] to generate and insert frames between the real frames on the fly, thus smoothing any motion that happens on the screen. This theory is accompanied by direct comparison with the [[VGN-UX]], in which screen on the VGN-U seems more smooth in operation.

None of the VGN-U models had a built-in keyboard. Instead, they had a separate Sony VGP-KBC1 Foldable Keyboard, the compact USB keyboard which resembles a laptop keyboard. It folds in the middle, and has a TrackStik mouse pointer in the center. When folded, the unit is approximately the same width and height of the U-series unit, and about half the thickness. Also, all models had backlit buttons on the unit itself, which could show various light effects when device is turned on, attempted to turn on while on hold or the screen is rotated using Rotate button.

Using a combination of bundled VGP-PRU1 Port Replicator, any USB keyboard and mouse connected to the Port Replicator (or just bundled VGP-KBC1 keyboard since it already has TrackStik), and any VGA monitor, user could essentially turn their VGN-U into a desktop PC while still retaining the portability: the unit can either divert display output to the VGA port or mirror the image, allowing for a convenient experience on a large screen, and can be undocked without turning the power off. Also, the Port Replicator will also charge the device's battery while it's docked.

It came with many accessories in the box, including the Port Replicator, Remote Commander (headphone remote control unit, which is the same type used by Sony in its MiniDisc players, making it quite easy to find, which allows one to control audio playback and read current track information), VGA/Ethernet dongle, stylus and pouches for the computer and the foldable keyboard.
[[File:U750P-front.jpg|thumb|VGN-U750P, front view]]

=== '''VGN-U50''' ===
'''Processor:''' Intel Celeron M 900MHz

'''Graphics:''' Intel 855GM

'''Chipset:''' Intel 855GM

'''Memory:''' 256MB DDR 266MHz (upgradable to 512MB using a proprietary memory module)

'''Display:''' 5" 800×600 custom transflective LCD panel [[File:VGN-U750P Back.jpg|thumb|VGN-U750P, back view]][[File:VGN-U Accessories.jpg|thumb|VGN-U Accessories: VGP-PRU1 Port Replicator, VGP-KBC1 Foldable Keyboard, VGA/Ethernet dongle, Remote Commander, stylus and pouches for the computer itself and the keyboard[[File:Insides of the VGN-U.jpg|thumb|Insides of a flash-modded VGN-U]]]]'''Storage:''' 20 GB 1.8-inch IDE HDD

'''Weight:''' 550g

'''Original OS:''' Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition Service Pack 1

'''MSRP:''' ¥179,000 ($1595)
=== '''VGN-U70P''' ===
'''Processor:''' Intel Pentium M 1GHz

'''Graphics:''' Intel 855GM

'''Chipset:''' Intel 855GM

'''Memory:''' 512MB DDR 266MHz

'''Display:''' 5" 800×600 custom transflective LCD panel

'''Storage:''' 20 GB 1.8-inch IDE HDD

'''Weight:''' 550g

'''Original OS:''' Microsoft Windows XP Professional Service Pack 1

'''MSRP:''' ¥210,000 ($1871)
=== '''VGN-U8G''' ===
'''Processor:''' Intel Celeron M 900MHz

'''Graphics:''' Intel 855GM

'''Chipset:''' Intel 855GM

'''Memory:''' 256MB DDR 266MHz (upgradable to 512MB using a proprietary memory module) [[File:VGN-U Memory.jpg|thumb|512MB Memory Module for VGN-U line]]'''Display:''' 5" 800×600 custom transflective LCD panel

'''Storage:''' 20 GB 1.8-inch IDE HDD

'''Weight:''' 550g

'''Original OS:''' Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition Service Pack 1

'''MSRP:''' Unknown
[[File:VGN-U 256MB module.png|thumb|256MB Memory Module for VGN-U line]]

=== '''VGN-U8C''' ===
'''Processor:''' Intel Celeron M 900MHz

'''Graphics:''' Intel 855GM

'''Chipset:''' Intel 855GM

'''Memory:''' 256MB DDR 266MHz (upgradable to 512MB using a proprietary memory module)

'''Display:''' 5" 800×600 custom transflective LCD panel

'''Storage:''' 20 GB 1.8-inch IDE HDD

'''Weight:''' 550g

'''Original OS:''' Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition Service Pack 1

'''MSRP:''' Unknown
=== '''VGN-U750P''' ===
'''Processor:''' Intel Pentium M 733 1.1GHz

'''Graphics:''' Intel 855GM

'''Chipset:''' Intel 855GM

'''Memory: 512'''MB DDR 266MHz

'''Display:''' 5" 800×600 custom transflective LCD panel

'''Storage:''' 20 GB 1.8-inch IDE HDD

'''Weight:''' 550g

'''Original OS:''' Microsoft Windows XP Professional Service Pack 2

'''MSRP:''' $1,799 (as of December 2004)
=== '''VGN-U71P''' ===
'''Processor:''' Intel Pentium M 733 1.1GHz

'''Graphics:''' Intel 855GM

'''Chipset:''' Intel 855GM

'''Memory:''' 512MB DDR 266MHz

'''Display:''' 5" 800×600 custom transflective LCD panel

'''Storage:''' 30 GB 1.8-inch IDE HDD

'''Weight:''' 550g

'''Original OS:''' Microsoft Windows XP Professional Service Pack 2

'''MSRP:''' ¥199,800 ($1893)

==Daily Usage Today==

While extremely advanced for its size, especially back in 2004 (being the smallest full-featured PC running Windows XP in the world when it was released), all VGN-U models are almost completely useless from a practical point of use nowadays. Its processor has only one slow (by today's standards) core, 512MB of RAM is too little for modern tasks, and integrated graphics can't handle Windows Aero nor they have any WDDM drivers available. The 1.8" HDD is also quite slow (it uses the same compact IDE interface as Apple's iPods, so spares are easy and cheap to find, as well as flash modding solutions, however even if you manage to install a fast drive, you will only see an increase in random access speeds, while linear speeds will still be limited by low bus speed). The lack of built-in keyboard makes it hard for office use as well. However, you still can do very basic web browsing, but it is not going to be a very pleasant experience.

Overall, the VGN-U can only be recommended as a rare collectors item, and a rather expensive one as well, especially the VGN-U8C, VGN-U8G and VGN-U750P.

==Resources==

===== Recovery Discs =====
{| class="wikitable"
|VGN-U50 (DVD)
|[https://archive.org/details/SonyVaioU50 Internet Archive]
|-
|VGN-U70P (CDs)
|[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-u-70-p-cd-1 Internet Archive]
|-
|VGN-U70P (DVDs)
|[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-u-70-p-dvd Internet Archive]
|-
|VGN-U71P (CDs)
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio-u-71u-j-system-recovery-windowsxp-sp-2-cd-1-of-3 Internet Archive]
|-
|VGN-U71P (DVD)
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio-u71u-j-system-recovery-windowsxp-sp2-dvd Internet Archive]
|-
|VGN-U750P (boot CD&DVD)
|[https://archive.org/details/sonyvaiou750p Internet Archive]
|-
|VGN-U750P (CDs)
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio-u750p-rec-cd Internet Archive]
|}

===== Hard drive images =====
{| class="wikitable"
|VGN-U8G
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio-u8g-dump Internet Archive]
|}

===== Recovery partition images =====
{| class="wikitable"
|VGN-U750P
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio-u750p-recovery-partition-image Internet Archive]
|-
|VGN-U71P
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio71p-recovery-partition Internet Archive]
|}
[https://youtu.be/ESbdA2bDGwk?si=Kwc-UIb39jorLwDU&t=214 Sony VAIO VGN-U Disassembly Guide]

[http://www.vaio.sony.co.jp/Products/VGN-U50/ Sony VAIO Type U Presentation Page]

==Sources==
[https://sony.com Sony] and [[wikipedia:Sony_Vaio_U_series|Wikipedia]]

File:VGN-U 256MB module.png

2024-12-17T17:25:18Z

Resident007:

256MB Memory Module for VGN-U line

PCG-GT

2024-12-10T21:18:31Z

Resident007:

== Overview ==
[[File:PCG-GT JP.jpg|thumb|Sony VAIO PCG-GT3 promotional image]]The Sony VAIO PCG-GT was a line of ultraportable subnotebooks with a built-in digital camera sold by Sony exclusively in Japan from November 2000 to late 2001.

The original model, PCG-GT1 released on November 18, 2000. A higher-end model featuring darker colors and larger hard drive, PCG-GT3 (/K) was released on June 30, 2001.

Both models featured a large camera on the side, intended to be primarily used for taking pictures that could later be shared on an image sharing service ImageStation, and for video recording and live streaming to PercasTV service, one of the first live video streaming services.
[[File:PCG-GT1-handheld.png|thumb|PCG-GT1 in camcorder mode]]
Since the PCG-GT is designed like a sort of camcorder, the lid is able to rotate 180°, meaning you can close the lid with the display on the outside. The camera is also able to rotate vertically, allowing for a fairly pleasing experience when taking pictures or videos. The PCG-GT is able to capture pictures up to 640x480 resolution, and videos up to 640x480 (15FPS) or 320x240 (30FPS) in AVI format.

Build quality is good, made out of metal for the lid, and plastic for the rest. The keyboard, being much smaller than full size because of the form factor of the device, is still usable, however don't expect a very pleasing experience. No trackpad is provided, only a trackpoint.

A total of 5000 PCG-GT1 units were made. The number of PCG-GT3 units produced is unknown, but is likely the same as for PCG-GT1.

Some of the design choices featured in PCG-GT line were carried over to the [[PCG-U]] line in 2002.

==Detailed Specs==
There were two models released, PCG-GT1 and PCG-GT3 (/K). Both of them were very similar aside from a few minor differences in appearance, different hard drives, and Windows 2000 instead of ME in PCG-GT3. Both featured a Transmeta Crusoe TM5600 processor built on [[wikipedia:Very_long_instruction_word|VLIW]] architecture, similar to the TM5800 found in PCG-U series, however the one in PCG-GT is earlier and thus slower.

====PCG-GT1====
[[File:PCG-GT1.png|thumb|Sony VAIO PCG-GT1]]
'''Processor:''' Transmeta Crusoe TM5600 600MHz

'''Graphics:''' ATI RAGE Mobility M1, 8MB VRAM

'''Memory:''' 128MB

'''Display:''' 6.4" 1024×768

'''Camera:''' 1/4-inch CCD 680,000 pixels (340,000 effective pixels) f=3.3-33mm (42-420mm in 35mm camera equivalent) F1.7-2.2

'''Storage:''' 20GB 2.5-inch IDE HDD

'''Weight:''' 1.1kg

'''Original OS:''' Microsoft Windows Millenium Edition

'''MSRP:''' ¥285,800

====PCG-GT3 (/K)====
[[File:PCG-GT3-K.png|thumb|Sony VAIO PCG-GT3/K]]
'''Processor:''' Transmeta Crusoe TM5600 600MHz

'''Graphics:''' ATI RAGE Mobility M1, 8MB VRAM

'''Memory:''' 128MB

'''Display:''' 6.4" 1024×768

'''Camera:''' 1/4-inch CCD 680,000 pixels (340,000 effective pixels) f=3.3-33mm (42-420mm in 35mm camera equivalent) F1.7-2.2

'''Storage:''' 30GB 2.5-inch IDE HDD

'''Weight:''' 1.1kg

'''Original OS:''' Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional

'''MSRP:''' ¥230,000

==Daily Usage Today==
Much like back then, the PCG-GT is slow, and is only good enough for light tasks of its era. Camera is not acceptable by modern standards, but was fairly good back then. There is little to no usability in modern tasks for any PCG-GT model.

The PCG-GT is a very rare collector's item, and is rarely found for sale anywhere.

==Resources==

===== Recovery Discs =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-GT1
|[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-gt1-system-recovery-discs Internet Archive]
|}

===== Hard drive images =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-GT1
|[https://archive.org/details/PCG-GT1-disk Internet Archive]
|}

===== Manuals and Useful Links =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-GT1
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio-pcg-gt-1-manual Internet Archive]
|-
|PCG-GT1 (English translated)
|[https://archive.org/details/pcg-gt1-english-manual Internet Archive]
|}

==Credits==
[https://sony.com Sony], [https://pc.watch.impress.co.jp/ pc.watch.impress.co.jp]

PCG-GT

2024-12-10T21:03:07Z

Resident007: add manuals

== Overview ==
[[File:PCG-GT JP.jpg|thumb|Sony VAIO PCG-GT3 promotional image]]The Sony VAIO PCG-GT was a line of ultraportable subnotebooks with a built-in digital camera sold by Sony exclusively in Japan from November 2000 to late 2001.

The original model, PCG-GT1 released on November 18, 2000. A higher-end model featuring darker colors and larger hard drive, PCG-GT3 (/K) was released on June 30, 2001.

Both models featured a large camera on the side, intended to be primarily used for taking pictures that could later be shared on an image sharing service ImageStation, and for video recording and live streaming to PercasTV service, one of the first live video streaming services.
[[File:PCG-GT1-handheld.png|thumb|PCG-GT1 in camcorder mode]]
Since the PCG-GT is designed like a sort of camcorder, the lid is able to rotate 180°, meaning you can close the lid with the display on the outside. The camera is also able to rotate vertically, allowing for a fairly pleasing experience when taking pictures or videos. The PCG-GT is able to capture pictures up to 640x480 resolution, and videos up to 640x480 (15FPS) or 320x240 (30FPS) in AVI format.

Build quality is good, made out of metal for the lid, and plastic for the rest. The keyboard, being much smaller than full size because of the form factor of the device, is still usable, however don't expect a very pleasing experience. No trackpad is provided, only a trackpoint.

A total of 5000 PCG-GT1 units were made. The number of PCG-GT3 units produced is unknown, but is likely the same as for PCG-GT1.

Some of the design choices featured in PCG-GT line were carried over to the [[PCG-U]] line in 2002.

==Detailed Specs==
There were two models released, PCG-GT1 and PCG-GT3 (/K). Both of them were very similar aside from a few minor differences in appearance, different hard drives, and Windows 2000 instead of ME in PCG-GT3. Both featured a Transmeta Crusoe TM5600 processor built on [[wikipedia:Very_long_instruction_word|VLIW]] architecture, similar to the TM5800 found in PCG-U series, however the one in PCG-GT is earlier and thus slower.

====PCG-GT1====
[[File:PCG-GT1.png|thumb|Sony VAIO PCG-GT1]]
'''Processor:''' Transmeta Crusoe TM5600 600MHz

'''Graphics:''' ATI RAGE Mobility M1, 8MB VRAM

'''Memory:''' 128MB

'''Display:''' 6.4" 1024×768

'''Camera:''' 1/4-inch CCD 680,000 pixels (340,000 effective pixels) f=3.3-33mm (42-420mm in 35mm camera equivalent) F1.7-2.2

'''Storage:''' 20GB 2.5-inch IDE HDD

'''Weight:''' 1.1kg

'''Original OS:''' Microsoft Windows Millenium Edition

'''MSRP:''' ¥285,800

====PCG-GT3 (/K)====
[[File:PCG-GT3-K.png|thumb|Sony VAIO PCG-GT3/K]]
'''Processor:''' Transmeta Crusoe TM5600 600MHz

'''Graphics:''' ATI RAGE Mobility M1, 8MB VRAM

'''Memory:''' 128MB

'''Display:''' 6.4" 1024×768

'''Camera:''' 1/4-inch CCD 680,000 pixels (340,000 effective pixels) f=3.3-33mm (42-420mm in 35mm camera equivalent) F1.7-2.2

'''Storage:''' 30GB 2.5-inch IDE HDD

'''Weight:''' 1.1kg

'''Original OS:''' Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional

'''MSRP:''' ¥230,000

==Daily Usage Today==
Much like back then, the PCG-GT is slow, and is only good enough for light tasks of its era. Camera is not acceptable by modern standards, but was fairly good back then. There is little to no usability in modern tasks for any PCG-GT model.

The PCG-GT is a very rare collector's item, and is rarely found for sale anywhere.

==Resources==

===== Recovery Discs =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-GT1
|[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-gt1-system-recovery-discs Internet Archive]
|}

===== Hard drive images =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-GT1
|[https://archive.org/details/PCG-GT1-disk Internet Archive]
|}

===== Manuals and Useful Links =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-GT1
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio-pcg-gt-1-manual Internet Archive]
|-
|PCG-GT1 (English translated)
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio-pcg-gt-1-manual-translated Internet Archive]
|}

==Credits==
[https://sony.com Sony], [https://pc.watch.impress.co.jp/ pc.watch.impress.co.jp]

PCG-GT

2024-12-09T19:28:14Z

Resident007: /* PCG-GT1 */

== Overview ==
[[File:PCG-GT JP.jpg|thumb|Sony VAIO PCG-GT3 promotional image]]The Sony VAIO PCG-GT was a line of ultraportable subnotebooks with a built-in digital camera sold by Sony exclusively in Japan from November 2000 to late 2001.

The original model, PCG-GT1 released on November 18, 2000. A higher-end model featuring darker colors and larger hard drive, PCG-GT3 (/K) was released on June 30, 2001.

Both models featured a large camera on the side, intended to be primarily used for taking pictures that could later be shared on an image sharing service ImageStation, and for video recording and live streaming to PercasTV service, one of the first live video streaming services.
[[File:PCG-GT1-handheld.png|thumb|PCG-GT1 in camcorder mode]]
Since the PCG-GT is designed like a sort of camcorder, the lid is able to rotate 180°, meaning you can close the lid with the display on the outside. The camera is also able to rotate vertically, allowing for a fairly pleasing experience when taking pictures or videos. The PCG-GT is able to capture pictures up to 640x480 resolution, and videos up to 640x480 (15FPS) or 320x240 (30FPS) in AVI format.

Build quality is good, made out of metal for the lid, and plastic for the rest. The keyboard, being much smaller than full size because of the form factor of the device, is still usable, however don't expect a very pleasing experience. No trackpad is provided, only a trackpoint.

A total of 5000 PCG-GT1 units were made. The number of PCG-GT3 units produced is unknown, but is likely the same as for PCG-GT1.

Some of the design choices featured in PCG-GT line were carried over to the [[PCG-U]] line in 2002.

==Detailed Specs==
There were two models released, PCG-GT1 and PCG-GT3 (/K). Both of them were very similar aside from a few minor differences in appearance, different hard drives, and Windows 2000 instead of ME in PCG-GT3. Both featured a Transmeta Crusoe TM5600 processor built on [[wikipedia:Very_long_instruction_word|VLIW]] architecture, similar to the TM5800 found in PCG-U series, however the one in PCG-GT is earlier and thus slower.

====PCG-GT1====
[[File:PCG-GT1.png|thumb|Sony VAIO PCG-GT1]]
'''Processor:''' Transmeta Crusoe TM5600 600MHz

'''Graphics:''' ATI RAGE Mobility M1, 8MB VRAM

'''Memory:''' 128MB

'''Display:''' 6.4" 1024×768

'''Camera:''' 1/4-inch CCD 680,000 pixels (340,000 effective pixels) f=3.3-33mm (42-420mm in 35mm camera equivalent) F1.7-2.2

'''Storage:''' 20GB 2.5-inch IDE HDD

'''Weight:''' 1.1kg

'''Original OS:''' Microsoft Windows Millenium Edition

'''MSRP:''' ¥285,800

====PCG-GT3 (/K)====
[[File:PCG-GT3-K.png|thumb|Sony VAIO PCG-GT3/K]]
'''Processor:''' Transmeta Crusoe TM5600 600MHz

'''Graphics:''' ATI RAGE Mobility M1, 8MB VRAM

'''Memory:''' 128MB

'''Display:''' 6.4" 1024×768

'''Camera:''' 1/4-inch CCD 680,000 pixels (340,000 effective pixels) f=3.3-33mm (42-420mm in 35mm camera equivalent) F1.7-2.2

'''Storage:''' 30GB 2.5-inch IDE HDD

'''Weight:''' 1.1kg

'''Original OS:''' Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional

'''MSRP:''' ¥230,000

==Daily Usage Today==
Much like back then, the PCG-GT is slow, and is only good enough for light tasks of its era. Camera is not acceptable by modern standards, but was fairly good back then. There is little to no usability in modern tasks for any PCG-GT model.

The PCG-GT is a very rare collector's item, and is rarely found for sale anywhere.

==Resources==

===== Recovery Discs =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-GT1
|[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-gt1-system-recovery-discs Internet Archive]
|}

===== Hard drive images =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-GT1
|[https://archive.org/details/PCG-GT1-disk Internet Archive]
|}

==Credits==
[https://sony.com Sony], [https://pc.watch.impress.co.jp/ pc.watch.impress.co.jp]

PCG-GT

2024-12-09T19:27:44Z

Resident007: /* PCG-GT1 */

== Overview ==
[[File:PCG-GT JP.jpg|thumb|Sony VAIO PCG-GT3 promotional image]]The Sony VAIO PCG-GT was a line of ultraportable subnotebooks with a built-in digital camera sold by Sony exclusively in Japan from November 2000 to late 2001.

The original model, PCG-GT1 released on November 18, 2000. A higher-end model featuring darker colors and larger hard drive, PCG-GT3 (/K) was released on June 30, 2001.

Both models featured a large camera on the side, intended to be primarily used for taking pictures that could later be shared on an image sharing service ImageStation, and for video recording and live streaming to PercasTV service, one of the first live video streaming services.
[[File:PCG-GT1-handheld.png|thumb|PCG-GT1 in camcorder mode]]
Since the PCG-GT is designed like a sort of camcorder, the lid is able to rotate 180°, meaning you can close the lid with the display on the outside. The camera is also able to rotate vertically, allowing for a fairly pleasing experience when taking pictures or videos. The PCG-GT is able to capture pictures up to 640x480 resolution, and videos up to 640x480 (15FPS) or 320x240 (30FPS) in AVI format.

Build quality is good, made out of metal for the lid, and plastic for the rest. The keyboard, being much smaller than full size because of the form factor of the device, is still usable, however don't expect a very pleasing experience. No trackpad is provided, only a trackpoint.

A total of 5000 PCG-GT1 units were made. The number of PCG-GT3 units produced is unknown, but is likely the same as for PCG-GT1.

Some of the design choices featured in PCG-GT line were carried over to the [[PCG-U]] line in 2002.

==Detailed Specs==
There were two models released, PCG-GT1 and PCG-GT3 (/K). Both of them were very similar aside from a few minor differences in appearance, different hard drives, and Windows 2000 instead of ME in PCG-GT3. Both featured a Transmeta Crusoe TM5600 processor built on [[wikipedia:Very_long_instruction_word|VLIW]] architecture, similar to the TM5800 found in PCG-U series, however the one in PCG-GT is earlier and thus slower.

====PCG-GT1====
[[File:PCG-GT1.png|thumb|Sony VAIO PCG-GT1]]
'''Processor:''' Transmeta Crusoe TM5600 600MHz

'''Graphics:''' ATI RAGE Mobility M1, 8MB VRAM

'''Memory:''' 128MB

'''Display:''' 6.4" 1024×768

'''Camera:''' 1/4-inch CCD 680,000 pixels (340,000 effective pixels) f=3.3-33mm (42-420mm in 35mm camera equivalent) F1.7-2.2

'''Storage:''' 20GB 2.5-inch IDE HDD

'''OS:''' Windows ME

'''Weight:''' 1.1kg

'''Original OS:''' Microsoft Windows Millenium Edition

'''MSRP:''' ¥285,800

====PCG-GT3 (/K)====
[[File:PCG-GT3-K.png|thumb|Sony VAIO PCG-GT3/K]]
'''Processor:''' Transmeta Crusoe TM5600 600MHz

'''Graphics:''' ATI RAGE Mobility M1, 8MB VRAM

'''Memory:''' 128MB

'''Display:''' 6.4" 1024×768

'''Camera:''' 1/4-inch CCD 680,000 pixels (340,000 effective pixels) f=3.3-33mm (42-420mm in 35mm camera equivalent) F1.7-2.2

'''Storage:''' 30GB 2.5-inch IDE HDD

'''OS:''' Windows 2000 Professional

'''Weight:''' 1.1kg

'''Original OS:''' Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional

'''MSRP:''' ¥230,000

==Daily Usage Today==
Much like back then, the PCG-GT is slow, and is only good enough for light tasks of its era. Camera is not acceptable by modern standards, but was fairly good back then. There is little to no usability in modern tasks for any PCG-GT model.

The PCG-GT is a very rare collector's item, and is rarely found for sale anywhere.

==Resources==

===== Recovery Discs =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-GT1
|[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-gt1-system-recovery-discs Internet Archive]
|}

===== Hard drive images =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-GT1
|[https://archive.org/details/PCG-GT1-disk Internet Archive]
|}

==Credits==
[https://sony.com Sony], [https://pc.watch.impress.co.jp/ pc.watch.impress.co.jp]

PCG-GT

2024-12-09T19:26:22Z

Resident007: /* Overview */

== Overview ==
[[File:PCG-GT JP.jpg|thumb|Sony VAIO PCG-GT3 promotional image]]The Sony VAIO PCG-GT was a line of ultraportable subnotebooks with a built-in digital camera sold by Sony exclusively in Japan from November 2000 to late 2001.

The original model, PCG-GT1 released on November 18, 2000. A higher-end model featuring darker colors and larger hard drive, PCG-GT3 (/K) was released on June 30, 2001.

Both models featured a large camera on the side, intended to be primarily used for taking pictures that could later be shared on an image sharing service ImageStation, and for video recording and live streaming to PercasTV service, one of the first live video streaming services.
[[File:PCG-GT1-handheld.png|thumb|PCG-GT1 in camcorder mode]]
Since the PCG-GT is designed like a sort of camcorder, the lid is able to rotate 180°, meaning you can close the lid with the display on the outside. The camera is also able to rotate vertically, allowing for a fairly pleasing experience when taking pictures or videos. The PCG-GT is able to capture pictures up to 640x480 resolution, and videos up to 640x480 (15FPS) or 320x240 (30FPS) in AVI format.

Build quality is good, made out of metal for the lid, and plastic for the rest. The keyboard, being much smaller than full size because of the form factor of the device, is still usable, however don't expect a very pleasing experience. No trackpad is provided, only a trackpoint.

A total of 5000 PCG-GT1 units were made. The number of PCG-GT3 units produced is unknown, but is likely the same as for PCG-GT1.

Some of the design choices featured in PCG-GT line were carried over to the [[PCG-U]] line in 2002.

==Detailed Specs==
There were two models released, PCG-GT1 and PCG-GT3 (/K). Both of them were very similar aside from a few minor differences in appearance, different hard drives, and Windows 2000 instead of ME in PCG-GT3. Both featured a Transmeta Crusoe TM5600 processor built on [[wikipedia:Very_long_instruction_word|VLIW]] architecture, similar to the TM5800 found in PCG-U series, however the one in PCG-GT is earlier and thus slower.

====PCG-GT1====
[[File:PCG-GT1.png|thumb|Sony VAIO PCG-GT1]]
'''Processor:''' Transmeta Crusoe TM5600 600MHz

'''Graphics:''' ATI RAGE Mobility M1, 8MB VRAM

'''Memory:''' 128MB

'''Display:''' 6.4" 1024×768

'''Camera:''' 1/4-inch CCD 680,000 pixels (340,000 effective pixels) f=3.3-33mm (42-420mm in 35mm camera equivalent) F1.7-2.2

'''Storage:''' 20GB 1.8-inch IDE HDD

'''OS:''' Windows ME

'''Weight:''' 1.1kg

'''Original OS:''' Microsoft Windows Millenium Edition

'''MSRP:''' ¥285,800

====PCG-GT3 (/K)====
[[File:PCG-GT3-K.png|thumb|Sony VAIO PCG-GT3/K]]
'''Processor:''' Transmeta Crusoe TM5600 600MHz

'''Graphics:''' ATI RAGE Mobility M1, 8MB VRAM

'''Memory:''' 128MB

'''Display:''' 6.4" 1024×768

'''Camera:''' 1/4-inch CCD 680,000 pixels (340,000 effective pixels) f=3.3-33mm (42-420mm in 35mm camera equivalent) F1.7-2.2

'''Storage:''' 30GB 1.8-inch IDE HDD

'''OS:''' Windows 2000 Professional

'''Weight:''' 1.1kg

'''Original OS:''' Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional

'''MSRP:''' ¥230,000

==Daily Usage Today==
Much like back then, the PCG-GT is slow, and is only good enough for light tasks of its era. Camera is not acceptable by modern standards, but was fairly good back then. There is little to no usability in modern tasks for any PCG-GT model.

The PCG-GT is a very rare collector's item, and is rarely found for sale anywhere.

==Resources==

===== Recovery Discs =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-GT1
|[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-gt1-system-recovery-discs Internet Archive]
|}

===== Hard drive images =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-GT1
|[https://archive.org/details/PCG-GT1-disk Internet Archive]
|}

==Credits==
[https://sony.com Sony], [https://pc.watch.impress.co.jp/ pc.watch.impress.co.jp]

C1X* (Second Revision)

2024-12-05T09:32:12Z

Resident007:

==Overview==
[[File:PCG-C1XE.png|thumb|PCG-C1XE]]
The Second revision of the Sony VAIO PCG-C1 were released between late 1999 and early 2000. Their main improvements from the earlier generation were the stereo speakers built-in the keyboard, and the ability to create 360 degrees panorama pictures thanks to the camera and a bundled software, called "PictureGear". There is a "capture" button located above the keyboard on the right which is optimal for taking pictures outside, without using the keyboard. It came with some bundled software such as the Camera Capture Utility which allowed for taking pictures easily and adding effects to the camera. To the left of the Motion Eye, there is a microphone.

This revision had seen a major redesign over the first one, both externally and internally. The MotionEye camera now had a more metal-like design; some of the indicator lights were moved to the top of the keyboard and some to the front of the bottom shell; stereo speakers were added instead of one mono speaker; the battery was now placed directly under the screen, and the bottom bezel was reduced in thickness; power button on the top part of the keyboard was now used instead of a latch on the left side of the bottom shell; Jog Dial was introduced; placement of internal components was adjusted; the PPK button was removed.

Starting from second revision, all PCG-C1 models are opened just by pulling the lid upwards instead of a latch used in the first revision.

Another evolution from the first generation was related to accessories: many were available, including double and quad-capacity batteries and an external CD-ROM drive.

Depending on the model, they were equipped with different Intel processors, ranging from the Celeron to the Pentium 2.

The Intel Pentium and Microsoft Windows stickers were affixed beside the top right corner of the screen. The laptop itself had a purple color with slightly lighter purple buttons. It uses a regular Sony 16V VAIO power supply as used in most VAIOs at the time, which was located at the back of the laptop, behind the display. They also included a lot of ports: modem, one USB, PCMCIA card slot, i.Link, headphone, microphone, infrared and a proprietary display signal port which used an adapter to support VGA.

The laptop came bundled with a charger, a CD-ROM drive (depending on configuration), floppy drive, VGA adapter cable, phone cable, spare pointing nubs, USB cable for the floppy drive and a battery.

The versions ranged from the earlier "PCG-C1XE" from late 1999 to the "XN" and "XS" from January 2000, which had two versions with German and Japan localization (resp. the "XD" and "XG/BP") based on the "XS".
==Detailed Specs==
'''Processor:''' Intel Celeron 233MHz (PCG-C1XN), Intel Pentium 2 266MHz (PCG-C1XE), Pentium 2 400MHz (PCG-C1XS, XD, XG/BP)

'''Graphics:''' NeoMagic MagicMedia256AV (NM2200) with 2.5 MB VRAM

'''Chipset''': Intel 430TX

'''Memory:''' 64MB (Standard), 128MB (Official maximum)

'''Display:''' 8.9” TFT LCD XGA 1024×480

'''Storage:''' 8.1GB IDE HDD (PCG-C1XE), 12GB IDE HDD (PCG-C1XN, XS, XD, XG/BP)

'''Weight:''' 1.0kg (with standard battery)

'''MSRP:''' ~€2100
==Problems==
[[File:Vinegar Syndrome.png|alt=Vinegar Syndrome|thumb|Vinegar Syndrome on a PCG-C1XG]]A problem with this series and many other older ones is the so called "vinegar syndrome", which happens when the polarizer film from the LCD breaks down. This causes some nasty looking effects on the display, as well as a vinegar smell, hence the name "vinegar syndrome".

To fix this, you must replace the damaged polarizer film with a new one. A video and polarizer replacement is linked in the Resources tab.

As with a lot of old laptops, this laptop has the problem of melting rubber feet. There is no proper solution, apart from 3D-Printing the feet with TPU plastic. The STL can be found under the "Resources" tab.
==Daily Usage Today==
The PCG-C1X* is definitely still usable today for very basic office tasks like Word documents, Excel spreadsheets and PowerPoint presentations. Retro gaming is possible, but with a very limited selection of games. Taking pictures with is would be fun and creative, with the nice rotating camera. The resolution is definitely not good by today's standards but it is fine to take some nice pictures, especially with the 360° panorama photo software. Any modern tasks like web browsing are pretty much impossible on this laptop, with the exception of very basic static HTML pages with no or very low resolution images.
==Resources==
==Downloads==
==Credits==
[https://sony.com/ Sony]

C1X* (Second Revision)

2024-12-05T09:30:36Z

Resident007: removed more irrelevant info, added some relevant info about the 2nd rev

==Overview==
[[File:PCG-C1XE.png|thumb|PCG-C1XE]]
The Second revision of the Sony VAIO PCG-C1 were released between late 1999 and early 2000. Their main improvements from the earlier generation were the stereo speakers built-in the keyboard, and the ability to create 360 degrees panorama pictures thanks to the camera and a bundled software, called "PictureGear". There is a "capture" button located above the keyboard on the right which is optimal for taking pictures outside, without using the keyboard. It came with some bundled software such as the Camera Capture Utility which allowed for taking pictures easily and adding effects to the camera. To the left of the Motion Eye, there is a microphone.

This revision had seen a major redesign over the first one, both externally and internally. The MotionEye camera now had a more metal-like design; some of the indicator lights were moved to the top of the keyboard and some to the front of the bottom shell; stereo speakers were added instead of one mono speaker; the battery was now placed directly under the screen, and the bottom bezel was reduced in thickness; power button on the top part of the keyboard was now used instead of a latch on the left side of the bottom shell; Jog Dial was introduced; placement of internal components was adjusted

Starting from second revision, all PCG-C1 models are opened just by pulling the lid upwards instead of a latch used in the first revision.

Another evolution from the first generation was related to accessories: many were available, including double and quad-capacity batteries and an external CD-ROM drive.

Depending on the model, they were equipped with different Intel processors, ranging from the Celeron to the Pentium 2.

The Intel Pentium and Microsoft Windows stickers were affixed beside the top right corner of the screen. The laptop itself had a purple color with slightly lighter purple buttons. It uses a regular Sony 16V VAIO power supply as used in most VAIOs at the time, which was located at the back of the laptop, behind the display. They also included a lot of ports: modem, one USB, PCMCIA card slot, i.Link, headphone, microphone, infrared and a proprietary display signal port which used an adapter to support VGA.

The laptop came bundled with a charger, a CD-ROM drive (depending on configuration), floppy drive, VGA adapter cable, phone cable, spare pointing nubs, USB cable for the floppy drive and a battery.

The versions ranged from the earlier "PCG-C1XE" from late 1999 to the "XN" and "XS" from January 2000, which had two versions with German and Japan localization (resp. the "XD" and "XG/BP") based on the "XS".
==Detailed Specs==
'''Processor:''' Intel Celeron 233MHz (PCG-C1XN), Intel Pentium 2 266MHz (PCG-C1XE), Pentium 2 400MHz (PCG-C1XS, XD, XG/BP)

'''Graphics:''' NeoMagic MagicMedia256AV (NM2200) with 2.5 MB VRAM

'''Chipset''': Intel 430TX

'''Memory:''' 64MB (Standard), 128MB (Official maximum)

'''Display:''' 8.9” TFT LCD XGA 1024×480

'''Storage:''' 8.1GB IDE HDD (PCG-C1XE), 12GB IDE HDD (PCG-C1XN, XS, XD, XG/BP)

'''Weight:''' 1.0kg (with standard battery)

'''MSRP:''' ~€2100
==Problems==
[[File:Vinegar Syndrome.png|alt=Vinegar Syndrome|thumb|Vinegar Syndrome on a PCG-C1XG]]A problem with this series and many other older ones is the so called "vinegar syndrome", which happens when the polarizer film from the LCD breaks down. This causes some nasty looking effects on the display, as well as a vinegar smell, hence the name "vinegar syndrome".

To fix this, you must replace the damaged polarizer film with a new one. A video and polarizer replacement is linked in the Resources tab.

As with a lot of old laptops, this laptop has the problem of melting rubber feet. There is no proper solution, apart from 3D-Printing the feet with TPU plastic. The STL can be found under the "Resources" tab.
==Daily Usage Today==
The PCG-C1X* is definitely still usable today for very basic office tasks like Word documents, Excel spreadsheets and PowerPoint presentations. Retro gaming is possible, but with a very limited selection of games. Taking pictures with is would be fun and creative, with the nice rotating camera. The resolution is definitely not good by today's standards but it is fine to take some nice pictures, especially with the 360° panorama photo software. Any modern tasks like web browsing are pretty much impossible on this laptop, with the exception of very basic static HTML pages with no or very low resolution images.
==Resources==
==Downloads==
==Credits==
[https://sony.com/ Sony]

File:PCG-C1XE.png

2024-12-05T09:20:08Z

Resident007:

PCG-C1XE (Second Revision)

C1X* (Second Revision)

2024-12-05T09:16:26Z

Resident007: /* Detailed Specs */

==Overview==
The Second revision of the Sony VAIO PCG-C1 were released between late 1999 and early 2000. Their main improvements from the earlier generation were the stereo speakers built-in the keyboard, and the ability to create 360 degrees panorama pictures thanks to the camera and a bundled software, called "PictureGear". There is a "capture" button located above the keyboard on the right which is optimal for taking pictures outside, without using the keyboard. It came with some bundled software such as the Camera Capture Utility which allowed for taking pictures easily and adding effects to the camera. A video demonstration will be shown soon in the resources section. To the left of the Motion Eye, there is a microphone. Below the screen and Sony logo, there are seven LEDs, for indication of battery charge, power, caps/number/scroll lock and more. These lights are also visible with the laptop fully closed.

Unlike the other C1-Series laptops, this one is opened with a latch that one pulls, which is found on the front of the laptop when it is closed. The power is not turned on with a button, but with a latch located on the left of the laptop.

Another evolution from the first generation was related to accessories: many were available, including double and quad-capacity batteries and an external CD-ROM drive.

Depending on the model, they were equipped with different Intel processors, ranging from the Celeron to the Pentium 2.

Next to the latch which is used for opening the laptop, there is a "P" button, which is referred to by Sony as the "PPK (programmable power key)". This key could be used to start programs, using software called "PPK Setup". It could also be used in conjunction with other keys such as "Ctrl" or "Shift" to open other programs. One could open up programs while the laptop was closed too.

The Intel Pentium and Microsoft Windows stickers were affixed beside the top left corner of the screen. The laptop itself had a purple color with slightly lighter purple buttons. It uses a regular Sony 16V VAIO power supply as used in most VAIOs at the time, which was located at the back of the laptop, behind the display. They also included a lot of ports: modem, one USB, PCMCIA card slot, i.Link, headphone, microphone, infrared and a proprietary display signal port which used an adapter to support VGA.

The laptop came bundled with a charger, a CD-ROM drive (depending on configuration), floppy drive, VGA adapter cable, phone cable, spare pointing nubs, USB cable for the floppy drive and a battery.

The versions ranged from the earlier "PCG-C1XE" from late 1999 to the "XN" and "XS" from January 2000, which had two versions with German and Japan localization (resp. the "XD" and "XG/BP") based on the "XS".
==Detailed Specs==
'''Processor:''' Intel Celeron 233MHz (PCG-C1XN), Intel Pentium 2 266MHz (PCG-C1XE), Pentium 2 400MHz (PCG-C1XS, XD, XG/BP)

'''Graphics:''' NeoMagic MagicMedia256AV (NM2200) with 2.5 MB VRAM

Chipset: Intel 430TX

'''Memory:''' 64MB (Standard), 128MB (Official maximum)

'''Display:''' 8.9” TFT LCD XGA 1024×480

'''Storage:''' 8.1GB IDE HDD (PCG-C1XE), 12GB IDE HDD (PCG-C1XN, XS, XD, XG/BP)

'''Weight:''' 1.0kg (with standard battery)

'''MSRP:''' ~€2100
==Problems==
[[File:Vinegar Syndrome.png|alt=Vinegar Syndrome|thumb|Vinegar Syndrome on a PCG-C1XG]]A problem with this series and many other older ones is the so called "vinegar syndrome", which happens when the polarizer film from the LCD breaks down. This causes some nasty looking effects on the display, as well as a vinegar smell, hence the name "vinegar syndrome".

To fix this, you must replace the damaged polarizer film with a new one. A video and polarizer replacement is linked in the Resources tab.

As with a lot of old laptops, this laptop has the problem of melting rubber feet. There is no proper solution, apart from 3D-Printing the feet with TPU plastic. The STL can be found under the "Resources" tab.
==Daily Usage Today==
The PCG-C1X is definitely still usable today for basic office tasks like Word documents, Excel spreadsheets and PowerPoint presentations. Retro gaming is possible, but with a very limited selection of games. Taking pictures with is would be fun and creative, with the nice rotating camera. The resolution is definitely not good by today's standards but it is fine to take some nice pictures, especially with the 360° panorama photo software. Any modern tasks like web browsing are pretty much impossible on this laptop, with the exception of very basic static HTML pages with no or very low resolution images.
==Resources==
==Downloads==
==Credits==
[https://sony.com/ Sony]

C1X* (Second Revision)

2024-12-05T09:16:15Z

Resident007: /* Downloads */ removed unrelated content

==Overview==
The Second revision of the Sony VAIO PCG-C1 were released between late 1999 and early 2000. Their main improvements from the earlier generation were the stereo speakers built-in the keyboard, and the ability to create 360 degrees panorama pictures thanks to the camera and a bundled software, called "PictureGear". There is a "capture" button located above the keyboard on the right which is optimal for taking pictures outside, without using the keyboard. It came with some bundled software such as the Camera Capture Utility which allowed for taking pictures easily and adding effects to the camera. A video demonstration will be shown soon in the resources section. To the left of the Motion Eye, there is a microphone. Below the screen and Sony logo, there are seven LEDs, for indication of battery charge, power, caps/number/scroll lock and more. These lights are also visible with the laptop fully closed.

Unlike the other C1-Series laptops, this one is opened with a latch that one pulls, which is found on the front of the laptop when it is closed. The power is not turned on with a button, but with a latch located on the left of the laptop.

Another evolution from the first generation was related to accessories: many were available, including double and quad-capacity batteries and an external CD-ROM drive.

Depending on the model, they were equipped with different Intel processors, ranging from the Celeron to the Pentium 2.

Next to the latch which is used for opening the laptop, there is a "P" button, which is referred to by Sony as the "PPK (programmable power key)". This key could be used to start programs, using software called "PPK Setup". It could also be used in conjunction with other keys such as "Ctrl" or "Shift" to open other programs. One could open up programs while the laptop was closed too.

The Intel Pentium and Microsoft Windows stickers were affixed beside the top left corner of the screen. The laptop itself had a purple color with slightly lighter purple buttons. It uses a regular Sony 16V VAIO power supply as used in most VAIOs at the time, which was located at the back of the laptop, behind the display. They also included a lot of ports: modem, one USB, PCMCIA card slot, i.Link, headphone, microphone, infrared and a proprietary display signal port which used an adapter to support VGA.

The laptop came bundled with a charger, a CD-ROM drive (depending on configuration), floppy drive, VGA adapter cable, phone cable, spare pointing nubs, USB cable for the floppy drive and a battery.

The versions ranged from the earlier "PCG-C1XE" from late 1999 to the "XN" and "XS" from January 2000, which had two versions with German and Japan localization (resp. the "XD" and "XG/BP") based on the "XS".
==Detailed Specs==
'''Processor:''' Intel Celeron 233MHz (PCG-C1XN), Intel Pentium 2 266MHz (PCG-C1XE), Pentium 2 400MHz (PCG-C1XS, XD, XG/BP)

'''Graphics:''' NeoMagic MagicMedia256AV (NM2200) with 2.5 MB VRAM

'''Chipset:''' Intel 430TX

'''Memory:''' 64MB (Standard), 128MB (Official maximum)

'''Display:''' 8.9” TFT LCD XGA 1024×480

'''Storage:''' 8.1GB IDE HDD (PCG-C1XE), 12GB IDE HDD (PCG-C1XN, XS, XD, XG/BP)

'''Weight:''' 1.0kg (with standard battery)

'''MSRP:''' ~€2100
==Problems==
[[File:Vinegar Syndrome.png|alt=Vinegar Syndrome|thumb|Vinegar Syndrome on a PCG-C1XG]]A problem with this series and many other older ones is the so called "vinegar syndrome", which happens when the polarizer film from the LCD breaks down. This causes some nasty looking effects on the display, as well as a vinegar smell, hence the name "vinegar syndrome".

To fix this, you must replace the damaged polarizer film with a new one. A video and polarizer replacement is linked in the Resources tab.

As with a lot of old laptops, this laptop has the problem of melting rubber feet. There is no proper solution, apart from 3D-Printing the feet with TPU plastic. The STL can be found under the "Resources" tab.
==Daily Usage Today==
The PCG-C1X is definitely still usable today for basic office tasks like Word documents, Excel spreadsheets and PowerPoint presentations. Retro gaming is possible, but with a very limited selection of games. Taking pictures with is would be fun and creative, with the nice rotating camera. The resolution is definitely not good by today's standards but it is fine to take some nice pictures, especially with the 360° panorama photo software. Any modern tasks like web browsing are pretty much impossible on this laptop, with the exception of very basic static HTML pages with no or very low resolution images.
==Resources==
==Downloads==
==Credits==
[https://sony.com/ Sony]

C1V** (Third Revision)

2024-12-05T09:13:50Z

Resident007: Initial commit

[[File:PCG-C1VFK.png|thumb|PCG-C1VFK]]
!THIS PAGE IS WIP!

=== Overview ===
The Third revision of the Sony VAIO PCG-C1 were released in September of 2000.

File:PCG-C1VFK.png

2024-12-05T09:12:58Z

Resident007:

PCG-C1VFK, Third Revision

C1X* (Second Revision)

2024-12-05T09:11:02Z

Resident007: /* Overview */

==Overview==
[[File:PCG-C1 Original.png|alt=PCG-C1 (First Revision)|thumb|PCG-C1 (First Revision)]]The Second revision of the Sony VAIO PCG-C1 were released between late 1999 and early 2000. Their main improvements from the earlier generation were the stereo speakers built-in the keyboard, and the ability to create 360 degrees panorama pictures thanks to the camera and a bundled software, called "PictureGear". There is a "capture" button located above the keyboard on the right which is optimal for taking pictures outside, without using the keyboard. It came with some bundled software such as the Camera Capture Utility which allowed for taking pictures easily and adding effects to the camera. A video demonstration will be shown soon in the resources section. To the left of the Motion Eye, there is a microphone. Below the screen and Sony logo, there are seven LEDs, for indication of battery charge, power, caps/number/scroll lock and more. These lights are also visible with the laptop fully closed.[[File:Taking a picture with the PCG-C1.jpg|alt=Taking a picture with the PCG-C1|thumb|Taking a picture with the PCG-C1]]Unlike the other C1-Series laptops, this one is opened with a latch that one pulls, which is found on the front of the laptop when it is closed. The power is not turned on with a button, but with a latch located on the left of the laptop.

Another evolution from the first generation was related to accessories: many were available, including double and quad-capacity batteries and an external CD-ROM drive.

Depending on the model, they were equipped with different Intel processors, ranging from the Celeron to the Pentium 2.[[File:Official Sony PCG-C1 image.jpg|alt=Official Sony PCG-C1 image|thumb|Official Sony PCG-C1 image]]Next to the latch which is used for opening the laptop, there is a "P" button, which is referred to by Sony as the "PPK (programmable power key)". This key could be used to start programs, using software called "PPK Setup". It could also be used in conjunction with other keys such as "Ctrl" or "Shift" to open other programs. One could open up programs while the laptop was closed too.

The Intel Pentium and Microsoft Windows stickers were affixed beside the top left corner of the screen. The laptop itself had a purple color with slightly lighter purple buttons. It uses a regular Sony 16V VAIO power supply as used in most VAIOs at the time, which was located at the back of the laptop, behind the display. They also included a lot of ports: modem, one USB, PCMCIA card slot, i.Link, headphone, microphone, infrared and a proprietary display signal port which used an adapter to support VGA.

The laptop came bundled with a charger, a CD-ROM drive (depending on configuration), floppy drive, VGA adapter cable, phone cable, spare pointing nubs, USB cable for the floppy drive and a battery.

The versions ranged from the earlier "PCG-C1XE" from late 1999 to the "XN" and "XS" from January 2000, which had two versions with German and Japan localization (resp. the "XD" and "XG/BP") based on the "XS".
==Detailed Specs==
'''Processor:''' Intel Celeron 233MHz (PCG-C1XN), Intel Pentium 2 266MHz (PCG-C1XE), Pentium 2 400MHz (PCG-C1XS, XD, XG/BP)

'''Graphics:''' NeoMagic MagicMedia256AV (NM2200) with 2.5 MB VRAM

'''Chipset:''' Intel 430TX

'''Memory:''' 64MB (Standard), 128MB (Official maximum)

'''Display:''' 8.9” TFT LCD XGA 1024×480

'''Storage:''' 8.1GB IDE HDD (PCG-C1XE), 12GB IDE HDD (PCG-C1XN, XS, XD, XG/BP)

'''Weight:''' 1.0kg (with standard battery)

'''MSRP:''' ~€2100
==Problems==
[[File:Vinegar Syndrome.png|alt=Vinegar Syndrome|thumb|Vinegar Syndrome on a PCG-C1XG]]A problem with this series and many other older ones is the so called "vinegar syndrome", which happens when the polarizer film from the LCD breaks down. This causes some nasty looking effects on the display, as well as a vinegar smell, hence the name "vinegar syndrome".

To fix this, you must replace the damaged polarizer film with a new one. A video and polarizer replacement is linked in the Resources tab.

As with a lot of old laptops, this laptop has the problem of melting rubber feet. There is no proper solution, apart from 3D-Printing the feet with TPU plastic. The STL can be found under the "Resources" tab.
==Daily Usage Today==
The PCG-C1X is definitely still usable today for basic office tasks like Word documents, Excel spreadsheets and PowerPoint presentations. Retro gaming is possible, but with a very limited selection of games. Taking pictures with is would be fun and creative, with the nice rotating camera. The resolution is definitely not good by today's standards but it is fine to take some nice pictures, especially with the 360° panorama photo software. Any modern tasks like web browsing are pretty much impossible on this laptop, with the exception of very basic static HTML pages with no or very low resolution images.
==Resources==
[http://chachapi.way-nifty.com/weblog/2008/08/sony-vaio-pcg-c.html HDD replacement guide]

[https://pc.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/article/980928/stapa16.htm PC-Watch page]

A polarizer replacement guide will be made shortly.
==Downloads==
[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-pcg-c1-recovery-disc PCG-C1 Recovery CDs]

[https://archive.org/details/sony-pcg-c-1-x-recovery-cds-version-g-13.0 PCG-C1X Recovery CDs]

[https://archive.org/details/thingiverse-5316865 Replacement TPU feet model by Geoff]

[https://archive.org/details/thingiverse-5319381 Blank Battery cover model by Geoff]
==Credits==
[https://sony.com/ Sony]

PCG-X505

2024-12-05T08:59:19Z

Resident007: added recovery discs, hdd image and disassembly guide by Jason Novak, improved styling a bit

[[File:10 PCG-X505 .1391682306.jpg|thumb|alt=PCG-X505 from front|PCG-X505 from front]]

== Overview ==
[[File:PCG-X505 from side.jpg|alt=PCG-X505 from side|thumb|PCG-X505 from side]]
The VAIO PCG-X505 was a high-end, thin and light, "ultraportable" laptop computer released by Sony worldwide in 2004 (with a Japan-only release in 2003). It was marketed as an "Extreme 505" notebook, the last in the 505 series. It was the slimmest laptop available at the time and is still thought of as the "MacBook Air before the MacBook Air".
[[File:PCG-X505 marketing image.jpg|alt=PCG-X505 marketing image|thumb|PCG-X505 marketing image]]
It was highly praised for its cutting-edge thin design, its very low weight (only 860g - 1.85lb, achieved by using carbon fiber for the lid) and for the good performance that it still managed to achieve in spite of the very compact dimensions. It featured an Intel Ultra Low Voltage (ULV) "Dothan" Pentium M clocked at 1.1GHz and Intel 855GME Graphics with 64MB of VRAM.

The original MSRP for its US release was 2999.99USD from the SonyStyle.com website. It shipped with Windows XP Professional.

Original Sony accessories for the laptop included a semi-rigid carrying case, a DVD-RW external unit powered by a special connector that slots inside the i.Link S400 port and a power outlet near said port and a PCMCIA wireless card.
[[File:PCG-X505 .jpg|alt=PCG-X505 |thumb|PCG-X505 ]]

== Detailed Specs ==
'''Processor:''' 1.1GHz Intel "Dothan" Pentium M

'''Graphics:''' 64MB Intel 855GME

'''Memory:''' DDR SDRAM (soldered)

'''Storage:''' 1.8" HDD

'''Ports:''' 1x Type II PC card slot; 1x Sony i.Link S400 (Apple FireWire 400 4-pin/ IEEE 1394); 2x USB 2.0

'''Connectivity:''' 802.11 a/b/g wireless (using an included PCMCIA wireless card)

'''Display:''' 10.4" 1024x768 (XGA), 4:3 TFT panel

'''Weight:''' 860g (1.85lb)

'''Battery life:''' 2h, 57min as tested by NotebookReview.com at launch

'''MSRP:''' 2999.99USD (US)

== Daily usage today ==
While extremely advanced for its time back in 2004, the X505 is, nowadays, almost completely useless. Its processor is, when compared to other laptops of its time, slower, the graphics are weaker, and the RAM is not upgradeable (even though it is enough for light usage like text editing or even importing videos from the i.Link S400 port). The little, 1.8" HDD will also not help things out (it uses the same compact IDE interface as Apple's iPods, so spares are easy and cheap to find, as well as flash modding solutions). The tiny keyboard will not add anything positive to the overall user experience.

Overall, the PCG-X505 can only be recommended as a collectors item, and a rather expensive one as well.

== Resources ==

===== Recovery Discs =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-X505
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio-x505-winxp-japan-factory-recovery-cds Internet Archive]
|}

===== Hard Drive Images =====
{| class="wikitable"
|PCG-X505
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio-x505-winxp-japan-factory-recovery-cds Internet Archive]
|}

===== Disassembly Guide =====
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AnK7tfd69ZU Sony VAIO PCG-X505 Disassembly Video Guide]

[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lgfsA6IWK1E Another Sony VAIO PCG-X505 Disassembly Video Guide]

==Downloads==
Follow our [[Drivers Downloading Guides|guides]] to download and install drivers.

==Credits==
[https://sony.com Sony]

P (VPCP)

2024-11-25T07:56:36Z

Resident007: /* Resources */

[[File:VPCP Colours.png|alt=VPCP Colours|thumb|VPCP Colours]]

== Overview ==
[[File:Vpcp front white.png|thumb|VPCP in Icy White]]
The Sony VAIO VPCP was a ultra-mobile PC (UMPC) released by Sony in 2010 as a refresh of the VGN-P. This was their last UMPC and used the same form factor as the VGN-P, albeit with a refreshed exterior to replicate the style of their SVE line of laptops. Sony also increased the capacity of the battery to 2500mAh from 2100mAh, added a touchpad next to the screen and added features such as a compass, accelerometer and ambient light sensor. There was also a button added that would switch the resolution to 1280x600, to make text more readable on the tiny screen.
[[File:VPCP in Orange.png|alt=VPCP in Orange|thumb|VPCP in Electric Orange]]
The VPCP was available in the following colors:

* Electric Orange
* Neon Green
* Hot Pink
* Icy White
* Classic Black
* Crocodile Black
* Crocodile Pink
* Crocodile White
[[File:VPCP in Neon Green.png|alt=VPCP in Neon Green|thumb|VPCP in Neon Green]]
There were other styles available, such as the crocodile-skin VPCP, which featured a crocodile skin style pattern on the lid of the laptop, part of Sony's signature series, though these were only available in Pink, Black and White.
[[File:VPCP in Hot Pink.png|alt=VPCP in Hot Pink|thumb|VPCP in Hot Pink]]
The VPCP also has a small touchpad on the lower right hand of the display which is accompanied by left and right click buttons on the left hand side, allowing the unit to be used handheld with no effort, similarly to a Toshiba Libretto and VAIO [[PCG-U]].
[[File:VPCP Signature Series Black Crocodile Skin.png|alt=VPCP Signature Series Black Crocodile Skin|thumb|VPCP Signature Series Black Crocodile Skin]]
These upgrades show that the VPCP was more than just a copy of the VGN-P with slightly better specs, it also had new features which allowed it to be more usable than its predecessor. Even though Sony improved the specifications, the laptop is still horribly slow in Windows 7 and Vista and is only really usable in a lightweight Linux distribution or Windows XP.

Sony had also made the SSD standard to improve load times, the most basic VPCP having a 64GB Sandisk IDE SSD, which can be upgraded as it uses the same connector as an iPod classic 5th gen and newer hard drive. Higher capacity options such as the 128GB and 256GB featured a Samsung SATA SSD, which was the same LIF SSD that was found in VAIOs such as the VPCZ1 and VPCSA. The LIF SSDs used a special HDD cable containing a SATA-IDE bridge, so are harder to upgrade. This meant that the VPCP is silent when in use due to the SSD and use of passive cooling.
== Detailed Specs ==
'''Processor:''' Intel Atom Z530/Z540/Z550/Z560 (1 core, 2 threads, 32-bit)

'''Graphics:''' Intel GMA 500 (based on PowerVR SGX535)

'''Chipset:''' Intel US15W

'''Memory:''' 2GB DDR2

'''Display:''' 8" 1600x768 LED display

'''Storage:''' 64GB/128GB/256GB SSD

'''Weight:''' 1.3lbs (589g)

'''MSRP:''' Starting at $799.99

== Daily Usage Today ==
The VPCP is only usable for extremely basic web browsing and offline productivity tasks, due to the very weak CPU and graphics (which cannot even run Aero smoothly). Windows 10 is compatible with the VPCP, but expect it to run very slowly, instead you are better off running Windows XP or Linux for the fastest experience. The device is incapable of any gaming except Minesweeper and Solitaire. The GMA 500 graphics also has little support for Linux, though it does work and runs better than Windows 7.

It does fit in some big pockets so it is a pretty good candidate for writing articles on the go in a very small package as the keyboard is at least not super tiny but still cramped and will not be a great typing experience.

== Resources ==
{| class="wikitable"
|VPCP11S1R Recovery Partition Image (Russian)
|[https://archive.org/details/vpcp11s1r-recovery-partition Internet Archive]
|}

== Credits ==

Wanted Recovery Media

2024-11-11T22:21:46Z

Resident007: /* PCG */

This page incorporates the Recovery Media (Recovery Disks, Recovery Partition images or, at least, complete hard drive images right after recovery process has been completed) that we are currently actively looking for. If you have one of the models listed here and/or its Recovery disks, you can help us preserve its Recovery media!

Some VAIO models (mostly made after 2003-2004) have Recovery Partitions on their hard drive/SSD from the factory. In such case, you can either make Recovery CDs using VAIO Recovery Tool and/or dump the Recovery Partition itself (preferably using [https://archive.org/details/SymantecGhost11512266 Ghost 11.5.1]). If you need any assistance in backing up or uploading the media, please contact us at [https://discord.gg/bF9BgTzqZk SonyPlaza Discord server], and we'll help you.

=== PCG ===
[[PCG-C1|PCG-C1MZX]]

[[PCG-C2GPS]]

[[PCG-GT|PCG-GT3/K]]

[[PCG-X505|PCG-X505P (English)]]

PCG-V505ACP

[[PCG-R505|PCG-R505JS]]

=== PCV ===

=== SV ===

=== VGN ===
[[VGN-U|VGN-U8C]]

[[VGN-U|VGN-U8G]]

[[VGN-UX|VGN-UX91NS (Vista only, XP SP2 is found)]]

=== VGC ===

=== VPC ===

=== VGX ===

VGN-UX

2024-11-11T09:55:20Z

Resident007: /* Hard drive images */

== Overview ==
[[File:Image 2023-02-11 023048743.png|thumb|VGN-UX in black color, with accompanying dock.]]
Sony made its first attempt to the Ultra-portable Mobile Computer (UMPC) with the VGN-U series introduced in 2004. In 2006, Sony launched the new VGN-UX series, which was their second attempt at UMPC category.
[[File:Image 2023-02-11 023714198.png|thumb|The 3 colors available for the VGN-UX series.]]
The VGN-UX series's design is a departure from VGN-U, which has brushed aluminum front and a large (for its size) 5.0-inch touchscreen without built-in keyboard. The VGN-UX has a radically new design, which has a slide-out QWERTY keyboard under the 4.5-inch touchscreen, resulting an overall shape like a portable gaming console. The overall dimensions of VGN-UX is smaller than VGN-U, while having even more capabilities than the latter, and with the new design it is more comfortable to be used with both one-hand and two-hand. The VGN-UX weights around 490g-544g depending on configuration. Due to its capabilities and unique design, the VGN-UX appeared in multiple popular culture appearances, such as Terminator Salvation and Casino Royale. The VGN-UX also has one new feature that the VGN-U doesn't have: a set of front and rear web cameras with 0.3 megapixels and 1.3 megapixels resolution respectively, which could both records videos and take still images using the built-in Camera Capture Utility. The VGN-UX comes in 3 colors, all are equipped with a black screen bezel: Silver as the standard color, a high-end edition with black casing, and a very rare, built-to-order only special edition with dark blue casing which was only available at Sony Store in Japan.

The VGN-UX can be equipped with an Intel Celeron M, Core Solo or Core 2 Solo (later revision model), 512MB (early model) or 1GB soldered DDR2 RAM, a 1.8-inch, 4200rpm hard drive or even Samsung SSD drive, which makes it the first VAIO computer equipped with SSD as internal storage. The graphics is powered by Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 950 in the Intel 945GMS chipset, which drives a 4.5-inch, touch-enabled panel at a resolution of 1024x600. It is also equipped with an Intel Wi-Fi module, Bluetooth, GPS (in select models), EDGE/UMTS/HSDPA capability (in select models), a pointing stick with accompanying left- and right-click buttons, one USB 2.0 port, 3.5mm audio in and out jacks, built-in fingerprint reader and built-in Memory Stick Duo and CompactFlash reader, and comes with a Port Replicator which provided extra ports such as AV out and IEEE 1394. As mentioned, the VGN-UX is also equipped with front- and rear-facing cameras. A "CAPTURE" button is placed near the top right corner of the machine, just like a real camera would, enabling users to handle the machine like it's a camera and shoot photos. The VGN-UX is preinstalled with Windows XP Home Edition/Professional (early models) or Windows Vista Home Premium/Business (later models).

The VGN-UX launched in 2006 with a price starting from $1800, with prices over $3000 if one is equipped with an SSD, which was a very expensive technology at the time. With such price the VGN-UX was not intended to appeal to the mass market, instead it attracted those who sees ultimate portability as the most important aspect of having a new PC. The VGN-UX is often regarded as one of the best computers Sony ever made due to its ultra-miniature components and overall design, same as the PCG-X505. Years after its launch, the VGN-UX has become a machine that is highly sought after by many VAIO, Sony or even ordinary PC collectors due to its distinctive design and rich feature set. Used VGN-UX usually goes for at least $200 today, with even higher prices for black or blue colored machines.

== Detailed Specs ==
Unlike devices for European and American markets, Japanese units featured a CF slot instead of cellular model, 1seg TV tuner, and FeliCa reader that slides out of Japanese version of VGP-PRUX1 Port Replicator.

'''Processor:''' Intel Celeron M 423, Core Solo U1300-U1500 (early models)/Celeron M 523, Core 2 Solo U2100/U2200 (later models)

'''Graphics:''' Intel GMA 950

'''Display:''' 4.5", 1024x600, reflective, with resistive touch panel and stylus

'''RAM:''' 512MB (early models) or 1GB DDR2 400/533MHz, soldered

'''Storage:''' 1.8", 4200rpm, UltraATA/100, 20/30/40/60/100GB HDD or 16/32/48/64GB Samsung SLC Solid State Drive

'''OS:''' Windows XP Home Edition/Professional (early models) or Windows Vista Home Premium/Business (later models)

'''Weight:''' 490-544g (depending on configuration)

'''MSRP:''' Starting from 1800 USD

== Daily Usage Today ==
With the small package of VGN-UX, the machine could not be easily equipped with better hardware at the time like Core Duo or more memory. However, it's currently possible to upgrade the CPU to Intel Core 2 Duo U7700, but it's difficult, requires expensive equipment and skills in soldering BGA components, and imposes a risk of damaging the device in process. Due to its soldered single-core CPU and limited RAM capacity, the VGN-UX is unable to keep up with the latest OS and applications, which makes using the machine today a difficult task. The battery life is also a concerning issue as well, as the battery life was already not good when it was launched. With batteries losing their capacity over time, it is harder to use the machine on the go for a prolonged time. If you can find a new battery for the VGN-UX, there may be a chance that you can run it for 1-2 hours. Keep in mind that this machine runs very hot due to the high heat produced by the CPU and chipset, and thus Sony implemented a throttling policy for these machine, which throttles the CPU to 800MHz once the fan starts running. With such limitations, it is not recommended to use this machine as a daily driver. If you really want to use it daily, installing lightweight OS like certain distros of Linux may help run smoother.

== Resources ==

===== Recovery Discs =====
{| class="wikitable"
|VGN-UX180P
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio-vgn-ux180p-recovery-media Internet Archive]
|-
|VGN-UX280P
|[https://archive.org/details/sony-vgn-ux-280-p-recovery-dvd Internet Archive]
|-
|VGN-UX380N
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio-vgn-ux380n-recovery-disc-iso Internet Archive]
|-
|VGN-UX17GP
|[https://archive.org/details/sony-vgn-ux-series-recovery-disc-win-xp Internet Archive]
|-
|VGN-UX90PS
|[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-ux-90-ps-recovery-disc Internet Archive]
|}

===== Hard drive images =====
{| class="wikitable"
|VGN-UX58
|[https://archive.org/details/recovery-c-drive-factory Internet Archive]
|-
|VGN-UX92NS (Windows Vista & 7 Dualboot)
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio-vgn-ux92ns-vista-win7 Internet Archive]
|}

===== Recovery partition images =====
{| class="wikitable"
|VGN-UX380N
|[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-ngn-ux-380-n-recovery-partition Internet Archive]
|-
|VGN-UX1XN
|[https://archive.org/details/ux1xn_vista_recovery Internet Archive]
|-
|VGN-UX91NS (Windows XP SP2)
|[https://archive.org/details/ux91ns-recovery Internet Archive]
|-
|VGN-UX92NS (Windows Vista)
|[https://archive.org/details/vaio-vgn-ux92ns-recovery-partition Internet Archive]
|}
[http://www.vaio.sony.co.jp/Products/UX2/ Sony VAIO VGN-UX Presentation Page]

[http://www.vaio.sony.co.jp/Products/UX1/lineup.html Another Sony VAIO VGN-UX Presentation Page]

[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aop9UXYKCS4 Sony VAIO VGN-UX Disassembly Guide]

== Sources ==
[https://www.trustedreviews.com/reviews/sony-micro-pc-vaio-vgn-ux1xn Trusted Reviews], [https://www.cnet.com/reviews/sony-vaio-ux-review/ CNET] and [[wikipedia:Sony_Vaio_UX_Micro_PC|Wikipedia]]