VAIO Library - User contributions [en]

VPCEE

2026-03-18T10:34:48Z

StarX: /* Overview */

[[File:VAIO VPCEE in white.jpg|alt=VAIO VPCEE in white|thumb|VAIO VPCEE in white]]

==Overview==
The Sony VAIO VPCEE are a series of mid-low-range notebooks released by Sony between June 2010 and June 2011. These were Sony's first AMD-based laptops, whose CPU lines would only be used for lower end machines in the VAIO lineup.

As the budget alternative to the [[VPCEB]] series, they have a 15,5" display with a 1366x768 resolution. The exterior is very similar to the VPCEB on first glance, however a lot has been changed and a lot of parts are not interchangeable. Sony has also removed the Quick Web Access feature as well as the VAIO button, leaving only the Assist button.

Made mostly of plastic and available in white or black, they are quite rare because some versions were sold exclusively in Japan, and they were equipped with AMD CPUs that were considered as below the average between mid-range notebooks.

On the other hand, their best strength is the ATI GPUs, and top model VPCEEs would be equipped with an ATI Radeon HD 5145 as well as a Blu-Ray drive.
==Detailed Specs==
'''Processor''': AMD Athlon II P360 2.3GHz 2C/4T or AMD Athlon II P320, P340, AMD Phenom II X3 P840

'''Graphics''': ATI Mobility Radeon HD 4200, 4250 or HD 5145 with 512MB VRAM

'''RAM''': 4GB SDRAM DDR3 (up to 8GB)

'''Display''': 15.5" 16:9 LED 1366x768

'''Storage''': 2.5" SATA

'''Battery''': 3500 mAh (model VGP-BPS22)

'''Weight''': 2.7 kg / 95.2 oz / 5.9 pounds

'''Original OS''': Windows 7 (64 bit)
==Daily Usage Today==
This device may be slow today, because of its CPU. It is still usable for basic tasks like web browsing and text editing.

It is not advised for gaming, even if equipped with the Radeon 5145, it will only be capable of older games at basic settings.

We recommend upgrading the RAM to 8 GB and to switch the mechanical hard drive to an SSD. You could also upgrade to a Phenom X4, which runs about $10 on AliExpress.

This device will work on Windows 11 with proper drivers, however the upgrade is not recommended, because of its low performance CPU.
==Downloads==
Follow our [https://vaiolibrary.com/index.php/Drivers_Downloading_Guides guide] to download and install the drivers (as Sony removed Windows 7 drivers and older).
==Sources==
[https://www.notebookcheck.net/Sony-Vaio-VPC-EE-Series.38862.0.html NotebookCheck] and [https://sony.com/ Sony]

PCG-X505

2026-03-11T22:05:59Z

StarX:

{{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. The X505 was also available in 2 different finishes, the first was a plain matte lid and the much rarer second option was a glossy lid with the carbon fibre visible.

[[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]

GPU reflow guide

2026-03-06T00:47:34Z

StarX: /* Tips to prolong the lifespan of your reflowed GPU */

[[File:Bga diagram.png|thumb|Diagram of a BGA chip, the underfill shown is the faulty part of the NVIDIA GPU, which breaks the connection of the solder bumps to the substrate.]]
All VAIOs equipped with a NVIDIA 8000 series GPU suffer from a very unfortunate issue, called Bumpgate. This is caused by the tiny bumps connecting the GPU die to the substrate breaking due to a faulty underfill material used by NVIDIA during that time. This is also the same issue that affects every other laptop equipped with these chips, as well as the fat PS3 consoles. Some ATI/AMD GPU/chipset equipped VAIOs (such as the VPCEE) also suffer from GPU failures, although these are less common.

There are 2 ways to fix this issue; the most ideal and longest lasting repair being a chip replacement, as the chip is the problem. However, if you do not get a fixed revision of the chip, there is a possibility of the failure occurring again, and you might not want to spend the money or have the expertise to remove and replace the GPU.

However, an alternate fix is to reflow/reball the chip (this guide will only cover the reflow process). Reflowing is when the chip is heated up to "reflow" or re-melt the solder balls, ensuring a solid connection with the motherboard. Consequently, this heating up also shifts the bumps on the die back into position, allowing the GPU to work again. "Reballing" will do the same thing, although instead of heating up the solder balls, you are removing the chip from the motherboard, cleaning it and applying new solder balls to it, then reinstalling the chip back on, which still does not fix the root cause of the problem which is the bad underfill on the chip. This fix is only temporary, and you shouldn't expect the laptop to last more than 1 or 2 months before requiring another reflow and eventually a chip replacement.

== Affected models ==
VGN-AR equipped with 8400M/8600M GT

VGN-FZ equipped with NVIDIA GPU

VGN-NR equipped with NVIDIA GPU

VGN-SZ equipped with 8400M GS

VGX-TP

VPCEE/VPCEF (AMD RS880M chipset failure)

=== Less common, but has been reported to happen: ===
VGN-SZ equipped with Go 7400

SVE** equipped with Radeon GPU

VPCCA/CB equipped with Radeon GPU

VPCEA/EB/EC equipped with Radeon GPU

== Symptoms of GPU failure ==
Your VAIO may experience the following symptoms that indicate a failing GPU:

* Artifacts on the screen
* Power but no display (This is a common symptom with failing RS880M chipsets on the VPCEE/VPCEF)
* 1 long 2 short beep code - GPU error
* Crashing when loading in to Windows (when the GPU drivers are loaded, may work in safe mode)
* Unable to install GPU drivers

== Items needed ==

=== Compulsory items ===

* Laptop that is being worked on
* Hot air rework station, you could use a heat gun but a rework station will allow for precise temperature control. Chinese ones such as the 858D can be picked up for very cheap on AliExpress and are adequate for the job.
* Soldering flux (nothing particular), I used fake Amtech flux for the reflow procedure which is very cheap on online platforms such as eBay. You preferably want a syringe as it makes putting the flux on a lot easier compared to without.

=== Optional items that are helpful ===

* Kapton tape, this is to protect other components from being desoldered.
* Aluminum foil, this helps to focus the heat only on the GPU
* PCB preheater, this preheats the board to a lower temperature which puts less stress on it when reflowing.

== Procedure ==
(Images are coming soon)

# Disassemble your device so that you only have the main board left. This varies depending on the machine.
# Clean off all thermal paste on the GPU using isopropyl alcohol and a small brush to remove the paste around the capacitors, also clean around the GPU as well
# Remove all tape/insulating material/stickers located around or near the GPU. It can be left on, however when the GPU is reflowed the material may melt or curl up.
# (if you have it) Cut out a square the size of the GPU on the aluminum foil, or apply kapton tape around the GPU to protect the other components.
# Apply flux around the edges of the chip
# Set the corners of the motherboard on top of something, so that there is air on the top and bottom of the board.
# Turn on your heat gun and set it to 400C
# Apply heat to the GPU for about 2-3 minutes, making sure to move the heat gun around the GPU to avoid putting too much heat in 1 location.
# Once you have done that, wait for the motherboard to cool down, then reassemble and test.
# If the laptop works, you are done! Make sure to follow the tips below to prolong the life of your laptop. If not, try reheating for a couple more minutes, otherwise if it still doesn't work, your chip is fried and will require a replacement.

== Tips to prolong the lifespan of your reflowed GPU ==

* Make sure to apply a good quality thermal paste to the laptop, PTM7950 is a very good option as it completely eliminates pump-out on laptops. It is also a cheap option if you order from sites such as AliExpress. You want a thermal paste that is very viscous to prevent pump out, such as Gelid GC-Extreme. Liquid metal is also an option however it is expensive and not really worth doing.
* Slightly bend the screw points on the heatsink up slightly, this puts more pressure on the chips enabling better contact.
* Clean the cooling system of your laptop regularly, at least once a year so that it stays running cool.
* If there is no copper touching the GPU, consider getting a copper shim, this will conduct heat much better than the non-copper heatsink and allow for quicker heat transfer away from the GPU.

== Resources ==
[https://www.badcaps.net/forum/troubleshooting-hardware-devices-and-electronics-theory/troubleshooting-laptops-tablets-and-mobile-devices/83833-nvidia-bumpgate|More information on the NVIDIA bumpgate issue, as well as specific GPU models affected]

SVE11

2026-03-06T00:34:20Z

StarX:

[[File:Vaio SVE11.jpg|thumb|White SVE11]]

==Overview==
The Sony VAIO SVE11 are a series of low end notebooks released by Sony between June 2012 and February 2013, succeeding the VPCY series of laptops. With the SVE11, Sony dropped the Intel CPUs in favour of an AMD exclusive line-up, featuring the new AMD E2 APU. Earlier models shipped with Windows 7 however Sony would later release them with Windows 8.

Being the smallest of the [[E (SVE)|E (SVE) Series]], they have a 11.6" display with a 1366x768 resolution.

Made mostly of plastic and available in black, white, or pink, their strengths are their small form factor making them very portable machines, and their multi-touch touchpad.

Both of their available CPUs aren't powerful, however they are very power efficient so run cool and quiet with good battery life.
==Detailed Specs==
'''Processor''': AMD E2-1800 1.75GHz 2C/4T or AMD E2-2000 1.75GHz 2C/4T

'''Graphics''': AMD Radeon HD 7340 IGP

'''RAM''': 4GB SDRAM DDR3 (up to 8GB)

'''Display''': 11,6" 16:9 LED 1366x768

'''Storage''': 2.5" SATA

'''Battery''': 5000 mAh (model VGP-BPS21B)

'''Weight''': 1.5 kg / 52.9 oz / 3.3 pounds

'''Original OS''': Windows 7 Home Premium or Windows 8 (64 bit)
==Daily Usage Today==
This device is still usable for very basic tasks like web browsing and text editing today. However, it is not advised for gaming, even if cloud-gaming. They may suffer of lags.

We recommend upgrading the RAM to 8 GB and to switch the mechanical hard drive to an SSD.

This device will fully work on Windows 11 with proper drivers, but it may experience lags and low stability.
==Downloads==
Follow our [[Drivers Downloading Guides|guides]] to download and install drivers.

==Sources==
[https://www.notebookcheck.net/Quick-Review-Sony-Vaio-SVE-1111M1E-P-Subnotebook.78993.0.html NotebookCheck] and [https://sony.com/ Sony]

VGN-N

2026-03-06T00:26:16Z

StarX: /* Daily Usage Today */

This page is currently WIP!!
==Overview==
[[File:VGN-N.jpg|thumb|VGN-N]]
The Sony VAIO VGN-N was a range of low-mid end "budget" laptops released by Sony in 2007. It was described by reviewers as "plain", due to its gray and square design. Notebookreview labelled it as a laptop "For those that like clean looks." It was the first of the budget N lineup of laptops. The VGN-N was available in 2 colour options, one was an all white design and the 2nd option had a black lid and keyboard which is pictured.

They included a reasonably sized 15.4" screen, Intel Core Duo or Celeron M (on lower end models) CPUs, a DVD reader/writer and came with Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005–Windows Vista capable and later models would ship with Windows Vista Home Premium.
[[File:VGN-N Keyboard.jpg|thumb|VGN-N Keyboard]]
The N Series also featured a basic range of ports, including two USB 2.0, FireWire, ExpressCard, Memory Stick and an SD Card slot. The N series had a modest 3 hours of battery life, but just under 2 hours while watching DVDs.

==Detailed Specs==
'''Processor:''' Intel Core Duo, Celeron M

'''Graphics:''' Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 950 (128 MB of shared RAM)

'''Chipset:''' Intel 943GML Express(533MHz)

'''Memory:''' 1 GB RAM (2 GB max) 533MHz DDR2 SDRAM (2 slots)

'''Display:''' 15.4-inch WXGA (1280 x 800) TFT LCD with XBRITE-ECO technology (glossy)

'''Storage:''' 80GB /100GB SATA HDD 5400RPM

'''Weight:''' 2.95kg

'''MSRP:''' under 1000€
==Daily Usage Today==
Usability is as usual with late XP/early Vista machines. Simple web browsing and text editing should be fine, though the laptop might struggle with modern websites. Animations and heavy scripts will be a big obstacle when browsing the web. Playing older games should also be fine, though modern games will struggle to even launch.

==Resources==
WIP

[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DXZrOC5vDUM VGN-N Disassembly guide]

==Credits==
[http://www.vaio.sony.co.jp/Products/N2/spec_retail.html#first Sony] [http://www.vaio.sony.co.jp/Products/N1/spec_retail.html#first Sony] [https://www.inversenet.co.jp/pclist/product/SONY-note/VGN%252DN51B.html Inversenet] [https://web.archive.org/web/20220129002709if_/http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-n-laptop-review/ Notebookreview (Wayback Machine link)]

{| class="wikitable"
|
|}

VGN-G

2025-11-01T18:51:35Z

StarX:

==Overview==
[[File:VGN-G.png|thumb|349x349px|VGN-G in Black]]
Going into the year 2007 Sony launched the VAIO VGN-G Series as a ultraportable Subnotebook. With a bright 12,1", 4:3 display and 8,5 hours of battery life, it was targeted at Businessmen and -women, who need a small and lightweight machine that could last a few hours on e.g. a train ride. The VGN-G series achieved this by utilizing a high quality case with carbon fibre parts that increased its strength. In addition to that the Notebook was equipped with motion sensors that could detect rapid accelration to turn off the Hard Drive in order to prevent damage or data loss. Depending on optional extras the VGN-G could weight between 1,1 and 1,2 kg. This made it small and light enough to fit in any regular briefcase.
[[File:Vgn-g Keyboard.png|thumb|315x315px|VGN-G Keyboard]]
Sadly, this portability came at the cost of low performance. While the U-series Core 2 Duo and -Solo used minimal energy, they weren't very powerful. In combination with only 1 GB of memory and the Intel GMA 950 iGPU the VGN-G Series was just able to run office and productivity applications, leaving no headroom for 3D-accelerated games or graphics programs. Being sold with Windows XP professional meant that more resources could go to the users applications, instead of the operating system. Another big downside was lack in connectivity. Coming with a DL-DVD-Burner, 300 Mbps Wifi, 1 Gbps Ethernet, a Modem, two USB 2.0 ports, Bluetooth and a VGA port. Equipment like a Webcam and HDMI port were not available. Though, as common with Sony Laptops, a fingerprint sensor and ExpansionCard slot could be had on the VGN-G series.

In conclusion the Sony VAIO VGN-G was an excellent lightweight laptop which excelled in mobile work, while sacrificing performance and connectivity to do so. This meant that most of these laptops where mostly sold to business which could spare the ~1800€ MSRP.

==Detailed Specs==
'''Processor:''' Intel Core 2 Duo U7500, Intel Core Solo U1500

'''Graphics:''' Intel GMA 950

'''Display:''' 12,1", 4:3, 1024 x 768

'''RAM:''' 1 GB DDR2 on-board, 1x SODIMM slot up to 3GB RAM total

'''Storage:''' 100GB 1.8" ZIF IDE HDD

'''OS:''' Windows XP Professional

'''Weight:''' 1,1 - 1,2 kg

'''MSRP:''' 1800 Euro

==Daily Usage Today==
With the increase of resources modern programs use, using the VGN-G could be difficult. Though upgrading the Ram and installing an SSD, as well as using Linux with a lightweight desktop environment, can be done to increase its usability. If done this laptop can still prove to be a nice work machine while you are on the go. But keep in mind that the original batteries have lost capacity over the years and you probably wont see 8 hours of battery, especially with the more resource-eating modern programs and operating systems.
==Resources==
[http://www.thg.ru/mobile/business_note_2008/sony_vaio_vgn-g21xp.html Useful VGN-G website]
==Downloads==
This section is WIP, content will follow shortly
==Sources==
[https://www.chip.de/test/Sony-Vaio-VGN-G21XP-Notebook-Test_139940688.html Chip] and [https://www.notebookcheck.com/Sony-Vaio-VGN-G-Serie.10610.0.html Notebookcheck]

VGN-G

2025-11-01T18:49:27Z

StarX: /* Detailed Specs */

==Overview==
[[File:VGN-G.png|thumb|349x349px|VGN-G in Black]]
Going into the year 2007 Sony launched the VAIO VGN-G Series as a ultraportable Subnotebook. With a bright 12,1", 4:3 display and 8,5 hours of battery life, it was targeted at Businessmen and -women, who need a small and lightweight machine that could last a few hours on e.g. a train ride. The VGN-G series achieved this by utilizing a high quality case with carbon fibre parts that increased its strength. In addition to that the Notebook was equipped with motion sensors that could detect rapid accelration to turn off the Hard Drive in order to prevent damage or data loss. Depending on optional extras the VGN-G could weight between 1,1 and 1,2 kg. This made it small and light enough to fit in any regular briefcase.
[[File:Vgn-g Keyboard.png|thumb|315x315px|VGN-G Keyboard]]
Sadly, this portability came at the cost of low performance. While the U-series Core 2 Duo and -Solo used minimal energy, they weren't very powerful. In combination with only 1 GB of memory and the Intel GMA 950 iGPU the VGN-G Series was just able to run office and productivity applications, leaving no headroom for 3D-accelerated games or graphics programs. Being sold with Windows XP professional meant that more resources could go to the users applications, instead of the operating system. Another big downside was lack in connectivity. Coming with a DL-DVD-Burner, 300 Mbps Wifi, 1 Gbps Ethernet, a Modem, two USB 2.0 ports, Bluetooth and a VGA port. Equipment like a Webcam and HDMI port were not available. Though, as common with Sony Laptops, a fingerprint sensor and ExpansionCard slot could be had on the VGN-G series.

In conclusion the Sony VAIO VGN-G was an excellent lightweight laptop which excelled in mobile work, while sacrificing performance and connectivity to do so. This meant that most of these laptops where mostly sold to business which could spare the ~1800€ MSRP.

==Detailed Specs==
'''Processor:''' Intel Core 2 Duo U7500, Intel Core Solo U1500

'''Graphics:''' Intel GMA 950

'''Display:''' 12,1", 4:3, 1024 x 768

'''RAM:''' 1 GB DDR2 on-board, 1x SODIMM slot up to 3GB RAM total

'''Storage:''' 100GB 2,5" HDD

'''OS:''' Windows XP Professional

'''Weight:''' 1,1 - 1,2 kg

'''MSRP:''' 1800 Euro

==Daily Usage Today==
With the increase of resources modern programs use, using the VGN-G could be difficult. Though upgrading the Ram and installing an SSD, as well as using Linux with a lightweight desktop environment, can be done to increase its usability. If done this laptop can still prove to be a nice work machine while you are on the go. But keep in mind that the original batteries have lost capacity over the years and you probably wont see 8 hours of battery, especially with the more resource-eating modern programs and operating systems.
==Resources==
[http://www.thg.ru/mobile/business_note_2008/sony_vaio_vgn-g21xp.html Useful VGN-G website]
==Downloads==
This section is WIP, content will follow shortly
==Sources==
[https://www.chip.de/test/Sony-Vaio-VGN-G21XP-Notebook-Test_139940688.html Chip] and [https://www.notebookcheck.com/Sony-Vaio-VGN-G-Serie.10610.0.html Notebookcheck]

VGN-G

2025-11-01T18:49:19Z

StarX: /* Detailed Specs */

==Overview==
[[File:VGN-G.png|thumb|349x349px|VGN-G in Black]]
Going into the year 2007 Sony launched the VAIO VGN-G Series as a ultraportable Subnotebook. With a bright 12,1", 4:3 display and 8,5 hours of battery life, it was targeted at Businessmen and -women, who need a small and lightweight machine that could last a few hours on e.g. a train ride. The VGN-G series achieved this by utilizing a high quality case with carbon fibre parts that increased its strength. In addition to that the Notebook was equipped with motion sensors that could detect rapid accelration to turn off the Hard Drive in order to prevent damage or data loss. Depending on optional extras the VGN-G could weight between 1,1 and 1,2 kg. This made it small and light enough to fit in any regular briefcase.
[[File:Vgn-g Keyboard.png|thumb|315x315px|VGN-G Keyboard]]
Sadly, this portability came at the cost of low performance. While the U-series Core 2 Duo and -Solo used minimal energy, they weren't very powerful. In combination with only 1 GB of memory and the Intel GMA 950 iGPU the VGN-G Series was just able to run office and productivity applications, leaving no headroom for 3D-accelerated games or graphics programs. Being sold with Windows XP professional meant that more resources could go to the users applications, instead of the operating system. Another big downside was lack in connectivity. Coming with a DL-DVD-Burner, 300 Mbps Wifi, 1 Gbps Ethernet, a Modem, two USB 2.0 ports, Bluetooth and a VGA port. Equipment like a Webcam and HDMI port were not available. Though, as common with Sony Laptops, a fingerprint sensor and ExpansionCard slot could be had on the VGN-G series.

In conclusion the Sony VAIO VGN-G was an excellent lightweight laptop which excelled in mobile work, while sacrificing performance and connectivity to do so. This meant that most of these laptops where mostly sold to business which could spare the ~1800€ MSRP.

==Detailed Specs==
'''Processor:''' Intel Core 2 Duo U7500, Intel Core Solo U1500

'''Graphics:''' Intel GMA 950

'''Display:''' 12,1", 4:3, 1024 x 768

'''RAM:''' 1 GB DDR2 on-board, 1x SODIMM slot up to 3GB RAM

'''Storage:''' 100GB 2,5" HDD

'''OS:''' Windows XP Professional

'''Weight:''' 1,1 - 1,2 kg

'''MSRP:''' 1800 Euro

==Daily Usage Today==
With the increase of resources modern programs use, using the VGN-G could be difficult. Though upgrading the Ram and installing an SSD, as well as using Linux with a lightweight desktop environment, can be done to increase its usability. If done this laptop can still prove to be a nice work machine while you are on the go. But keep in mind that the original batteries have lost capacity over the years and you probably wont see 8 hours of battery, especially with the more resource-eating modern programs and operating systems.
==Resources==
[http://www.thg.ru/mobile/business_note_2008/sony_vaio_vgn-g21xp.html Useful VGN-G website]
==Downloads==
This section is WIP, content will follow shortly
==Sources==
[https://www.chip.de/test/Sony-Vaio-VGN-G21XP-Notebook-Test_139940688.html Chip] and [https://www.notebookcheck.com/Sony-Vaio-VGN-G-Serie.10610.0.html Notebookcheck]

VGN-AW Quad Core Mod

2025-10-28T17:12:25Z

StarX:

Normally, the Sony VAIO VGN-AW does not support quad core CPUs (very few laptops did), and installing one will result in the laptop not booting; however with 2 simple modifications, you can get a quad core CPU working in your VGN-AW. This will greatly improve performance and make it even more usable on modern operating systems such as Windows 10 or 11. It's almost like Sony wanted to make a quad core AW, as the heatsink will fit the 2 dies perfectly.

You have an option of 3 CPUs for this mod, which are:

*Core 2 Quad Q9000 - 2GHz, 6MB cache, 45W TDP (least expensive, can be found for less than $15 on AliExpress)
* Core 2 Quad Q9100 - 2.26GHz, 12MB cache, 45W TDP
* Core 2 Quad QX9300 - 2.53GHz, 12MB cache, 45W TDP (most expensive and runs the hottest, but the fastest Socket P CPU ever made, also overclockable using ThrottleStop as it has an unlocked multiplier)

==Theory==
Before getting to the mod, it is good to know how the mod works. In 2008, Intel released 3 quad-core Socket P CPUs, and very few laptops included support for these CPUs (Examples include the Dell Precision M6400, HP HDX18, Acer Aspire 8930G among others). Laptops that did not come with quad core CPUs usually did not have the necessary circuitry to support quad cores on the motherboard, therefore it would not boot (there are some rare exceptions like the Precision M6400). It needs the circuitry as unlike the Core 2 Duo CPUs, the Core 2 Quad consists of 2 dual-core dies, therefore the quad cores require an additional GTLREF line to communicate properly which the circuitry provides. In this case, we are connecting the existing single GTLREF line to the pin on the CPU for GTLREF_2 (pin D22), therefore providing the CPU with both GTLREF voltages and allowing it to function in the laptop as the BIOS typically has the microcode for the Core 2 Quad already built in. This isn't the final step of the mod, as there are some pins that are required to be isolated as on the Core 2 Quad CPUs in order to POST. In theory, this will actually work on any Socket P based laptop, as long as the chipset supports Penryn CPUs, the GTLREF_2 pin is exposed and if done on a 965 chipset system the BSEL mod is done to add support for 1066MHz FSB processors.

==Items needed==

* VGN-AW (any model, even a grey one!)
*Soldering iron
*Isopropyl alcohol (optional)
*CPU, this must be one you are willing to sacrifice as you need to break off various pins, if you are not confident practice on a low end CPU before doing this.

==Procedure==
[[File:Aw quad mod 1.jpg|thumb|These are the points we are targeting.]]
[[File:Aw mod 2.jpg|thumb|What it should look like once done.]]
[[File:Quad mod cpu pins.png|thumb|Pins that need to be cut off on the CPU.]]
#Disassemble your AW and remove the motherboard, this will require you to remove the bottom case as well as the keyboard.
#Remove the heatsink and take off the bracket underneath the CPU socket, this is held on with some light adhesive so may require some heat, this is because the point TP17 is underneath this bracket.
#Clean off the adhesive on point TP17 (circled in red) using isopropyl alcohol so that the solder can stick to it.
#Solder a wire from pad TP17 (This is the pin D22 which is GTLREF_2 for the quad core CPUs) to the left side of R44 (This provides the GTLREF voltage for dual core CPUs) (do NOT get the sides mixed up or else the AW won't boot, as one side is ground). Clean the areas you soldered to with isopropyl alcohol as well. Be careful while soldering the TP17 point as it is somewhat fragile, if you do damage the pad then you can scrape off the solder mask covering the via on the bottom right corner of TP17 and solder to that instead as it is connected directly to TP17.
#Reinstall the bracket on the motherboard and install the motherboard, the motherboard modification is now done.
#Break off the CPU pins shown on the 3rd picture, you can use a small flathead or mechanical pencil to bend the pin back and forth until it breaks.
#Reassemble the AW, make sure to apply thermal paste on both dies.
#Switch on the AW and if it boots you are done! 
==Result==
Once the mod is complete, your AW should now be running a Core 2 Quad CPU. Congrats! Now you can enjoy the ultimate VGN-AW Sony never made. One thing you will notice is that it does run hotter than the standard Core 2 Duo CPU, idling at around 55c and running at 82c max when stressed (tested with a Q9000), however the AW is still very quiet with no noticeable fan noise. With the QX9300, the laptop gets much hotter, with the CPU reaching up to 98c max when being stressed, however the AW still remains reasonably quiet during normal usage. Here are some tips on how to keep your new Core 2 Quad running as good as the day you got it:

*Make sure to apply a good quality thermal paste to the AW, PTM7950 is a very good option as it completely eliminates pump-out on laptops. It is somewhat cheap if you order from sites such as AliExpress. Ideally, you want a thermal paste that is very viscous to prevent pump out, such as Gelid GC-Extreme or PTM7950 as stated above.
*Slightly bend the screw points on the heatsink up slightly, this puts more pressure on the chips enabling better contact.
*Clean the cooling system of the AW regularly, at least once a year so that it stays running cool.
*Consider undervolting the CPU with a tool such as ThrottleStop.

==Resources==
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fs4GjDiOie8|ThinkPad ThinkPad quad core mod that inspired the AW mod, and also has more info on why these pins have to be cut off and why the wire needs to be soldered]

VGN-AW Quad Core Mod

2025-10-08T21:13:05Z

StarX:

Normally, the Sony VAIO VGN-AW does not support quad core CPUs (very few laptops did), and installing one will result in the laptop not booting; however with 2 simple modifications, you can get a quad core CPU working in your VGN-AW. This will greatly improve performance and make it even more usable on modern operating systems such as Windows 10 or 11. It's almost like Sony wanted to make a quad core AW, as the heatsink will fit the 2 dies perfectly.

You have an option of 3 CPUs for this mod, which are:

*Core 2 Quad Q9000 - 2GHz, 6MB cache, 45W TDP (least expensive, can be found for less than $15 on AliExpress)
* Core 2 Quad Q9100 - 2.26GHz, 12MB cache, 45W TDP
* Core 2 Quad QX9300 - 2.53GHz, 12MB cache, 45W TDP (most expensive and runs the hottest, but the fastest Socket P CPU ever made, also overclockable using ThrottleStop as it has an unlocked multiplier)

==Theory==
Before getting to the mod, it is good to know how the mod works. In 2008, Intel released 3 quad-core Socket P CPUs, and very few laptops included support for these CPUs (Examples include the Dell Precision M6400, HP HDX18, Acer Aspire 8930G among others). Laptops that did not come with quad core CPUs usually did not have the necessary circuitry to support quad cores on the motherboard, therefore it would not boot (there are some exceptions like the Precision M6400). It needs the circuitry as unlike the Core 2 Duo CPUs, the Core 2 Quad consists of 2 dual-core dies, therefore the quad cores require an additional GTLREF line to communicate properly which the circuitry provides. In this case, we are connecting the existing single GTLREF line to the pin on the CPU for GTLREF_2 (pin D22), therefore providing the CPU with both GTLREF voltages and allowing it to function in the laptop as the BIOS typically has the microcode for the Core 2 Quad already built in. This isn't the final step of the mod, as there are some pins that are required to be isolated as on the Core 2 Quad CPUs in order to POST. In theory, this will actually work on any Socket P based laptop, as long as the chipset supports Penryn CPUs, the GTLREF_2 pin is exposed and if done on a 965 chipset the BSEL mod is done.

==Items needed==

* VGN-AW (any model, even a grey one!)
*Soldering iron
*Isopropyl alcohol (optional)
*CPU, this must be one you are willing to sacrifice as you need to break off various pins, if you are not confident practice on a low end CPU before doing this.

==Procedure==
[[File:Aw quad mod 1.jpg|thumb|These are the points we are targeting.]]
[[File:Aw mod 2.jpg|thumb|What it should look like once done.]]
[[File:Quad mod cpu pins.png|thumb|Pins that need to be cut off on the CPU.]]
#Disassemble your AW and remove the motherboard, this will require you to remove the bottom case as well as the keyboard.
#Remove the heatsink and take off the bracket underneath the CPU socket, this is held on with some light adhesive so may require some heat, this is because the point TP17 is underneath this bracket.
#Clean off the adhesive on point TP17 (circled in red) using isopropyl alcohol so that the solder can stick to it.
#Solder a wire from point TP17 (This is the pin D22 which is GTLREF_2 for the quad core CPUs) to the left side of R44 (This provides the GTLREF voltage for dual core CPUs) (do NOT get the sides mixed up or else the AW won't boot, as one side is ground). Clean the areas you soldered to with isopropyl alcohol as well.
#Reinstall the bracket on the motherboard and install the motherboard, the motherboard modification is now done.
#Break off the CPU pins on the 3rd picture, you can use a small flathead or mechanical pencil to bend the pin back and forth until it breaks.
#Reassemble the AW, make sure to apply thermal paste on both dies.
#Switch on the AW and if it boots you are done! 
==Result==
Once the mod is complete, your AW should now be running a Core 2 Quad CPU. Congrats! Now you can enjoy the ultimate VGN-AW Sony never made. One thing you will notice is that it does run hotter than the standard Core 2 Duo CPU, idling at around 55c and running at 82c max when stressed (tested with a Q9000), however the AW is still very quiet with no noticeable fan noise. With the QX9300, things get much hotter, with the CPU reaching up to 98c max when being stressed, however the AW still remains reasonably quiet during normal usage. Here are some tips on how to keep your new Core 2 Quad running as good as the day you got it:

*Make sure to apply a good quality thermal paste to the AW, PTM7950 is a very good option as it completely eliminates pump-out on laptops. It is somewhat cheap if you order from sites such as AliExpress. Ideally, you want a thermal paste that is very viscous to prevent pump out, such as Gelid GC-Extreme or PTM7950 as stated above.
*Slightly bend the screw points on the heatsink up slightly, this puts more pressure on the chips enabling better contact.
*Clean the cooling system of the AW regularly, at least once a year so that it stays running cool.
*Consider undervolting the CPU with a tool such as ThrottleStop.

==Resources==
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fs4GjDiOie8|ThinkPad ThinkPad quad core mod that inspired the AW mod, and also has more info on why these pins have to be cut off and why the wire needs to be soldered]

VGN-BX

2025-10-03T20:54:42Z

StarX:

[[File:VGN-BX.jpg|thumb|14.1" VGN-BX|392x392px]]

==Summary==
The Sony VAIO VGN-BX is a Business-Class notebook computer series released by Sony in 2005, and they were avaliable in 14.1", 15.4" and 17" display size.

They came in a silver finish. Only the 14.1" version of the VGN-BX has a magnesium alloy case. The 15.4" and 17" models have a plastic build and are 16:9 (Widescreen) instead of 4:3.

The Intel Pentium M series with Intel GMA 900 graphics was included with these laptops along with Windows XP. They also use DDR2 SDRAM which is user-replaceable.
[[File:15.4 inch model.png|thumb|392x392px|15.4" VGN-BX]]
Due to the fact that these laptops were made for businesses, they had multiple business related features: a Trusted Platform Module (TPM), Biometric Fingerprint Sensor, HDD Password Protection, an optional Built-in Camera, a modular bay, and Gigabit Ethernet.

The model was revised and updated in 2006 and 2007, which upgraded the processor to Intel Core 2 Duo, as well as upgrading the chipset, graphics and wireless network while keeping the same overall design.

There was also a multimedia oriented variant called the VGN-AX, this was the same laptop as the VGN-BX however it featured a built in TV tuner and capture card, like on the VGN-AR.

==Detailed Specs==
'''Processor''': Intel Pentium M 740 up to 780; Intel Core 2 Duo for 2006/2007 models

'''Graphics''': Intel GMA 900 with up to 128MB of shared memory; Intel GMA 950 or Intel GMA X3100 for 2006/2007 models

'''RAM''': DDR2 SDRAM (533MHz), Not Soldered, runs at 667MHz for Core 2 models

'''Display''': 14.1 XGA (1024x768) or SXGA+ (1400x1050) / 15.4" or 17.3" WXGA (1280x800), X-Black LCD, Glossy

'''Storage''': 2.5" SATA HDD

'''Wireless''': 802.11b/g Wireless LAN

'''OS''': Microsoft Windows XP Professional; Microsoft Windows Vista Business for select Core 2 models

'''Media''': Dual Layer DVD±RW Drive (Swappable), Three USB 2.0 Ports, Four-Pin FireWire, PCMCIA Card Slot, VGA Out, Gigabit Ethernet, SD Card Reader, Memory Stick Pro Reader and a Modem

'''Additional''': Bluetooth, Trackpad, TrackPoint, Fingerprint Reader, Trusted Platform Module (TPM), 0.3MP Camera and a Mute Button

==Daily Usage Today==
This laptop is still usable today, but to some extent... It is only useful for office uses and can be used as a Media PC. The Pentium M is not known for performance, and it is recommended that one replaces the HDD with a SSD. Retro games are playable on this device, but keep in mind that barely anything past the 2000's is playable (at a reasonable framerate).

== Resources ==
[https://www.insidemylaptop.com/disassemble-sony-vaio-vgn-bx-series-laptop/ Disassembly Guide]

==Downloads==
[https://archive.org/details/vaio-vgn-bx-740-recovery-disc-1-of-2 VGN-BX740 Recovery Disks]

[https://archive.org/details/VGN-BX760P VGN-BX760P Recovery Disks]

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

== Sources ==
[https://www.sony.com/en/ Sony]

VGN-AW Quad Core Mod

2025-09-25T14:49:42Z

StarX: /* Procedure */

Normally, the Sony VAIO VGN-AW does not support quad core CPUs (very few laptops did), and installing one will result in the laptop not booting; however with 2 simple modifications, you can get a quad core CPU working in your VGN-AW. This will greatly improve performance and make it even more usable on modern operating systems such as Windows 10 or 11. It's almost like Sony wanted to make a quad core AW, as the heatsink will fit the 2 dies perfectly.

You have an option of 3 CPUs for this mod, which are:

*Core 2 Quad Q9000 - 2GHz, 6MB cache, 45W TDP (least expensive, can be found for less than $15 on AliExpress)
* Core 2 Quad Q9100 - 2.26GHz, 12MB cache, 45W TDP
* Core 2 Quad QX9300 - 2.53GHz, 12MB cache, 45W TDP (most expensive and runs the hottest, but the fastest Socket P CPU ever made, also overclockable using ThrottleStop as it has an unlocked multiplier)

==Items needed==

* VGN-AW (any model, even a grey one!)
*Soldering iron
*Isopropyl alcohol (optional)
*CPU, this must be one you are willing to sacrifice as you need to break off various pins, if you are not confident practice on a low end CPU before doing this.

==Procedure==
[[File:Aw quad mod 1.jpg|thumb|These are the points we are targeting.]]
[[File:Aw mod 2.jpg|thumb|What it should look like once done.]]
[[File:Quad mod cpu pins.png|thumb|Pins that need to be cut off on the CPU.]]
#Disassemble your AW and remove the motherboard, this will require you to remove the bottom case as well as the keyboard.
#Remove the heatsink and take off the bracket underneath the CPU socket, this is held on with some light adhesive so may require some heat, this is because the point TP17 is underneath this bracket.
#Clean off the adhesive on point TP17 (circled in red) using isopropyl alcohol so that the solder can stick to it.
#Solder a wire from point TP17 (This is the pin D22 which is GTLREF_2 for the quad core CPUs) to the left side of R44 (This provides the GTLREF voltage for dual core CPUs) (do NOT get the sides mixed up or else the AW won't boot, as one side is ground). Clean the areas you soldered to with isopropyl alcohol as well.
#Reinstall the bracket on the motherboard and install the motherboard, the motherboard modification is now done.
#Break off the CPU pins on the 3rd picture, you can use a small flathead or mechanical pencil to bend the pin back and forth until it breaks.
#Reassemble the AW, make sure to apply thermal paste on both dies.
#Switch on the AW and if it boots you are done! 
==Result==
Once the mod is complete, your AW should now be running a Core 2 Quad CPU. Congrats! Now you can enjoy the ultimate VGN-AW Sony never made. One thing you will notice is that it does run hotter than the standard Core 2 Duo CPU, idling at around 55c and running at 82c max when stressed (tested with a Q9000), however the AW is still very quiet with no noticeable fan noise. With the QX9300, things get much hotter, with the CPU reaching up to 98c max when being stressed, however the AW still remains reasonably quiet during normal usage. Here are some tips on how to keep your new Core 2 Quad running as good as the day you got it:

*Make sure to apply a good quality thermal paste to the AW, PTM7950 is a very good option as it completely eliminates pump-out on laptops. It is somewhat cheap if you order from sites such as AliExpress. Ideally, you want a thermal paste that is very viscous to prevent pump out, such as Gelid GC-Extreme or PTM7950 as stated above.
*Slightly bend the screw points on the heatsink up slightly, this puts more pressure on the chips enabling better contact.
*Clean the cooling system of the AW regularly, at least once a year so that it stays running cool.
*Consider undervolting the CPU with a tool such as ThrottleStop.

==Resources==
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fs4GjDiOie8|ThinkPad ThinkPad quad core mod that inspired the AW mod, and also has more info on why these pins have to be cut off and why the wire needs to be soldered]

GPU reflow guide

2025-09-04T22:24:57Z

StarX: /* Affected models */

[[File:Bga diagram.png|thumb|Diagram of a BGA chip, the underfill shown is the faulty part of the NVIDIA GPU, which breaks the connection of the solder bumps to the substrate.]]
All VAIOs equipped with a NVIDIA 8000 series GPU suffer from a very unfortunate issue, called Bumpgate. This is caused by the tiny bumps connecting the GPU die to the substrate breaking due to a faulty underfill material used by NVIDIA during that time. This is also the same issue that affects every other laptop equipped with these chips, as well as the fat PS3 consoles. Some ATI/AMD GPU/chipset equipped VAIOs (such as the VPCEE) also suffer from GPU failures, although these are less common.

There are 2 ways to fix this issue; the most ideal and longest lasting repair being a chip replacement, as the chip is the problem. However, if you do not get a fixed revision of the chip, there is a possibility of the failure occurring again, and you might not want to spend the money or have the expertise to remove and replace the GPU.

However, an alternate fix is to reflow/reball the chip (this guide will only cover the reflow process). Reflowing is when the chip is heated up to "reflow" or remelt the solder balls, ensuring a solid connection with the motherboard. Consequently, this heating up also shifts the bumps on the die back into position, allowing the GPU to work again. "Reballing" will do the same thing, although instead of heating up the solder balls, you are removing the chip from the motherboard, cleaning it and applying new solder balls to it, then reinstalling the chip back on. This fix is only temporary, and you shouldn't expect the laptop to last more than 1 or 2 months before requiring another reflow and eventually a chip replacement.

== Affected models ==
VGN-AR equipped with 8400M/8600M GT

VGN-FZ equipped with NVIDIA GPU

VGN-NR equipped with NVIDIA GPU

VGN-SZ equipped with 8400M GS

VGX-TP

VPCEE/VPCEF (AMD RS880M chipset failure)

=== Less common, but has been reported to happen: ===
SVE** equipped with Radeon GPU

VPCCA/CB equipped with Radeon GPU

VPCEA/EB/EC equipped with Radeon GPU

== Symptoms of GPU failure ==
Your VAIO may experience the following symptoms that indicate a failing GPU:

* Artifacts on the screen
* Power but no display
* 1 long 2 short beep code - GPU error
* Crashing when loading in to Windows (when the GPU drivers are loaded, may work in safe mode)
* Unable to install GPU drivers

== Items needed ==

=== Compulsory items ===

* Laptop that is being worked on
* Hot air rework station, you could use a heat gun but a rework station will allow for precise temperature control. Chinese ones such as the 858D can be picked up for about £20-30 on AliExpress and are adequate for the job.
* Soldering flux (nothing particular), I used fake Amtech flux for the reflow procedure which is very cheap on online platforms such as eBay. You preferably want a syringe as it makes putting the flux on a lot easier compared to without.

=== Optional items that are helpful ===

* Kapton tape, this is to protect other components from being desoldered.
* Aluminum foil, this helps to focus the heat only on the GPU
* PCB preheater, this preheats the board to a lower temperature which puts less stress on it when reflowing.

== Procedure ==
(Images are coming soon)

# Disassemble your device so that you only have the main board left. This varies depending on the machine.
# Clean off all thermal paste on the GPU using isopropyl alcohol and a small brush to get the paste around the capacitors, also clean around the GPU as well
# Remove all tape/insulating material located around or near the GPU. It can be left on, however when the GPU is reflowed the material may melt or curl up.
# (if you have it) Cut out a square the size of the GPU on the aluminum foil, or apply kapton tape around the GPU to protect the other components.
# Apply flux around the edges of the chip
# Set the corners of the motherboard on top of something, so that there is air on the top and bottom of the board
# Turn on your heat gun and set it to 400C
# Apply heat to the GPU for about 2-3 minutes, making sure to move the heat gun around the GPU to avoid putting too much heat in 1 location.
# Once you have done that, wait for the motherboard to cool down, then reassemble and test.
# If the laptop works, you are done! Make sure to follow the tips below to prolong the life of your laptop. If not, try reheating for a couple more minutes, otherwise if it still doesn't work, your chip is fried and will require a replacement.

== Tips to prolong the lifespan of your reflowed GPU ==

* Make sure to apply a good quality thermal paste to the laptop, PTM7950 is a very good option as it completely eliminates pump-out on laptops. It is also a cheap option if you order from sites such as AliExpress. You want a thermal paste that is very viscous to prevent pump out, such as Gelid GC-Extreme.
* Slightly bend the screw points on the heatsink up slightly, this puts more pressure on the chips enabling better contact.
* Clean the cooling system of your laptop regularly, at least once a year so that it stays running cool.
* If there is no copper touching the GPU, consider getting a copper shim, this will conduct heat much better than the non-copper heatsink.

== Resources ==
[https://www.badcaps.net/forum/troubleshooting-hardware-devices-and-electronics-theory/troubleshooting-laptops-tablets-and-mobile-devices/83833-nvidia-bumpgate|More information on the NVIDIA bumpgate issue, as well as specific GPU models affected]

VGN-AR

2025-09-04T14:56:21Z

StarX:

{{Infobox Specs
| name = VGN-AR
| image = Sony Vaio VGN-AR.jpg
| subtitle = VGN-AR with its original stickers
| series = AR Series
| rel = 2006
| cpu = Intel Pentium Dual-Core T2370 / Intel Core Duo T2500 / Intel Core 2 Duo T5450, T7100, T7200, T7250, T7300, T7700, T8100, T8300, T9300
| gpu = NVIDIA GeForce Go 7600 / Go 7600 GT (early models), GeForce 8400M GT or 8600M GT (later models)
| chipset = Intel 945PM/965PM
| memory = 2x DDR2 SO-DIMM; up to 4GB (early) or 8GB (Penryn refresh)
| display = 17.1" 16:10 CCFL; 1440x900 WXGA+ (regular) or 1920x1200 WUXGA dual-lamp (Premium)
| storage = 2.5" SATA HDDs; dual HDD bay present in all models, RAID supported on some
| audio = Intel High Definition Audio, stereo speakers
| ports = VGA, HDMI, S-Video in/out, i.Link (IEEE 1394), PCMCIA Type II, ExpressCard/54, modem, Ethernet, 3x USB 2.0, 6-in-1 card reader
| connectivity = Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g, Bluetooth, optional TV tuner/ATI TV Wonder Digital Cable Tuner
| os = Microsoft Windows XP Media Center Edition or Windows Vista (Home Premium/Business/Ultimate)
| weight = 3.8 – 4.1kg
| size = 416 x 299 x 31.2–43.7mm
| battery = ~1.5–3h depending on usage
| msrp = €900 – €3499
}}

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.

== 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]

VGN-SZ (XP)

2025-08-29T14:51:29Z

StarX:

{{Infobox Specs
| name = VGN-SZ
| image = Sony Vaio VGN-SZ XP .jpg
| subtitle = Regular XP SZ from multiple angles
| series = SZ Series
| rel = 2006 (SZ1, Core Duo), 2007 (SZ3, Core 2 Duo)
| cpu = Intel Core Duo T2300/T2400/T2500 or Intel Core 2 Duo T5600/T7200
| gpu = Intel GMA 950 (Stamina) + NVIDIA GeForce Go 7400 256MB (Speed) – switchable Hybrid Graphics
| chipset = Intel 945GM
| memory = DDR2-667, 2 slots, max 4GB (3.5GB usable)
| display = 13.3" 1280x800 WXGA; CCFL backlit (Regular) or LED backlit (Premium)
| storage = 2.5" SATA HDD
| audio = Intel High Definition Audio, stereo speakers
| ports = VGA, Ethernet, modem, 2x USB 2.0, FireWire (i.Link), ExpressCard/34, PCMCIA, headphone/microphone, optional WWAN
| connectivity = Wi-Fi 802.11a/b/g, Bluetooth, optional EDGE antenna (Premium)
| os = Microsoft Windows XP Home/Professional; some later models with Vista
| weight = 1.67kg (Premium, carbon fiber) – 1.86kg (Regular, magnesium)
| size = 315 x 234 x 22.8–32mm
| battery = ~3–5h depending on model and GPU mode
| msrp = €1,400 – €2,500
}}

[[File:SZXPPremium.jpg|thumb|Premium XP SZ|351x351px]]
The Sony VAIO VGN-SZ Series is a high-end notebook computer range from Sony, released in 2006 with Windows XP. The SZ Series was known for its sleek and light design, being compact but also delivering good performance when needed thanks to its new Hybrid Graphics System, which allows the user to select between two graphics processors. Stamina being the Intel GMA 950 integrated into the chipset, or Speed which is a discrete NVIDIA GeForce Go 7400 GPU, meaning this was the first laptop to feature a switchable GPU. Although, one drawback of this function was that you needed to restart the computer to switch graphics cards, which was later fixed in the [[VGN-Z]].

These first VAIO VGN-SZs were delivered with Windows XP Home or Professional, and CPUs ranged from the Intel Core Duo T2300 to the T2500. The newer SZ3s featured the newer Core 2 Duo processors from Intel, the T5600 for the lower-end and the T7200 for higher-end models.

With features such as WWAN, fingerprint sensor, powerful hardware, and a light and compact casing, it's no wonder that the VGN-SZ Series was a successful lineup. Also, the SZ was featured in ''James Bond: Casino Royale'', in which Bond uses the SZ to resign from the service.

== Differences between Regular and Premium versions ==
* Regular SZs have magnesium bodies, and weigh 1.86 kg (4.1 lbs). They come in a silver finish.
* Premium SZs have carbon-fiber bodies, and weigh 1.67 kg (3.7 lbs). They come in a gray finish. They use a different type of LCD screen and a LED backlight instead of CCFL, resulting in an ultrathin screen that looks much better than the displays on Regular SZs. They also have a slightly different type of keyboard, but the difference is minor. They also included a fingerprint sensor, whereas on the regular model it was an optional extra. Lastly, some of them come with an integrated EDGE antenna. They costed around 600€ more than the Regular models.

== Problems ==
The XP SZ Series don't have any major issues beside overheating chipsets due to worn out thermal pads. This can be avoided by replacing old ones with good quality new pads. See [[VGN-SZ (Vista)]] for informations on the Vista SZ Series major problem.

== Daily Usage Today ==
Even though the VGN-SZ Series is from 2006-08, it still offers a good web browsing and text editing experience, when complimented with a modern lightweight operating system such as Lubuntu or an older version of Windows, like Vista or 7. The laptop will technically run on Windows 10, with working GPU drivers, however none of the function keys will work and the laptop will be quite sluggish, even with an upgraded CPU.

We would recommend upgrading to the maximum of 4GB ram and also upgrading to the Core 2 Duo if you have a Core Duo model which will get you extra performance and also enable 64-bit support. We would recommend the T7400, as it is a lot cheaper than the T7600 yet offers around the same performance. The standard Intel GPU driver can be installed and works perfectly, however the Nvidia driver will not, you will need to use the Sony drivers.

== Downloads ==
[https://archive.org/details/VGN-SZ3XP VGN-SZ (VGN-SZ3XP) Recovery Discs]
[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-vgn-sz3vwp_x-recovery-discs VGN-SZ (VGN-SZ3VWP/X) (English) Recovery Discs]
[https://archive.org/details/vgn-sz-3-vwp-x-system-sicherheitskopie_202407 VGN-SZ (VGN-SZ3VWP/X) (German) Recovery Discs]
[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-vgn-sz38gp-restore-media VGN-SZ (VGN-SZ38GP) Recovery Discs]

'''NOTE: These will work on only the specified model''', for example, VGN-SZ4XMN recovery discs won't work on a VGN-SZ1XP. Please see the Compatibility Problems section on the [[Recovery Discs]] page for more informations.

It is unknown if these discs are compatible with [[Sony VAIO Recovery Patcher (SVRP)|SVRP]].

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

Sony has also released the following 4 driver packs with all of the original drivers designed for Windows XP 32-bit (partly working on 2000 32-bit as well):
[http://dose.0wnz.at/ftp.vaio-link.com/PUB/VAIO/ORIGINAL/SZ1_DRIVERS.ZIP Official SZ1 Driver pack]
[http://dose.0wnz.at/ftp.vaio-link.com/PUB/VAIO/ORIGINAL/SZ2_DRIVERS.ZIP Official SZ2 Driver pack]
[http://dose.0wnz.at/ftp.vaio-link.com/PUB/VAIO/ORIGINAL/SZ3_DRIVERS.ZIP Official SZ3 Driver pack]
[http://dose.0wnz.at/ftp.vaio-link.com/PUB/VAIO/ORIGINAL/SZ4_DRIVERS.ZIP Official SZ4 Driver pack]

== Sources ==
[https://www.notebookcheck.com/ NotebookCheck], [https://www.sony.com/en/ Sony], [http://www.notebookreview.com/notebookreview/sony-vaio-sz-review-pics-specs/ Notebookreview], [https://xdevice.blogspot.com/2009/06/sony-vaio-sz-series.html xdevice.blogspot] and [https://www.newegg.com/sony-vaio-sz-series-vgn-sz360p-c/p/N82E16834117402 Newegg]

PCG-X505

2025-08-29T14:47:09Z

StarX:

{{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" 1.1GHz
| 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 1.1GHz 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]

X (VPCX)

2025-08-29T14:42:04Z

StarX: Created page with "{{Infobox Specs | name = VPCX | image = Sony VAIO VPCX.jpg | subtitle = VAIO VPCX in Black | series = X series | rel = 2009 | cpu = Intel Atom Z540/Z550 (soldered) | gpu = Intel GMA 500 | chipset = Intel US15W (Poulsbo) | memory = 2GB DDR2-533 (soldered, non-upgradable) | display = 11.1" 1366x768 LED-backlit LCD | storage = 64GB, 128GB, or 256GB SSD (1.8" PATA/ZIF) | audio = Intel High Definition Audio, stereo speakers | os = Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium, Professiona..."

{{Infobox Specs
| name = VPCX
| image = Sony VAIO VPCX.jpg
| subtitle = VAIO VPCX in Black
| series = X series
| rel = 2009
| cpu = Intel Atom Z540/Z550 (soldered)
| gpu = Intel GMA 500
| chipset = Intel US15W (Poulsbo)
| memory = 2GB DDR2-533 (soldered, non-upgradable)
| display = 11.1" 1366x768 LED-backlit LCD
| storage = 64GB, 128GB, or 256GB SSD (1.8" PATA/ZIF)
| audio = Intel High Definition Audio, stereo speakers
| os = Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium, Professional, or Ultimate
| weight = ~0.65kg (1.44lbs)
| size = 278 x 185 x 13.9mm (thinnest point)
| msrp = around $1300 to $2000 US
}}
== Overview ==
The Sony VAIO VPCX was a high end netbook released by Sony in 2009. It is one of the lightest VAIO computers released, only being a fraction heavier than the VPCP UMPC. To achieve this weight, Sony used a full carbon fibre construction to reduce weight, and used a very low voltage Intel Atom Z-series CPU, which output very low heat and used very little power. The VPCX was available in many colours, such as black, gold, silver and Premium Carbon, which featured a glossy lid with a carbon-fibre texture.
== Daily Usage Today ==
These days, the VPCX is not very usable due to its low power Intel Atom CPU and very weak GMA 500 graphics which could barely handle Aero at the time. For a faster experience you are better off installing Windows XP, which is much lighter and runs better on the hardware, or Linux, however support for the graphics card in Linux is very bad and it is actually faster to use software acceleration (modern Linux distros have dropped support for the GMA 500). The VPCX is only usable for basic offline tasks such as word processing.

== Resources ==

== Credits ==

File:Sony VAIO VPCX.jpg

2025-08-29T14:41:45Z

StarX: VPCX in black fdsafd

== Summary ==
VPCX in black
fdsafd

Welcome to the VAIO Library

2025-08-29T14:27:08Z

StarX: /* Sony VAIO Series List */

[[File:VAIO Library Logo 2.png|thumb]]
[[File:VAIO 1998 Wallpaper cropped 3.png|thumb]]

===== '''The VAIO Library is the best place to be for any VAIO related things!''' =====
The VAIO Library is a free access, community-made wiki of Sony VAIO devices. We offer overviews and information about VAIO models, a database of drivers and recovery discs, various guides, and more. We hope you enjoy your visit on the site!

'''Please note that this site is still in development. Please check [[Development Status|development status]].'''

For supporting the VAIO Library, please take a look at our [[Donate|donations page]]! Even small donations are appreciated.

<big>'''Please see the menu in the top left corner to discover useful pages,''' such as [[Recovery Discs|recovery discs]], drivers, guides, useful links and resources, and more.</big>

== Sony VAIO Series List==
For series with devices that were released in different years, the series will be listed in the year of the series first appearance.
{| class="wikitable sortable"
|<big>'''2013'''</big>
|[[Pro (SVP) Series|<big>Pro (SVP)</big>]]
|<big>[[Fit (SVF) Series|Fit (SVF)]]</big>
|<big>[[Tap (SVT)]]</big>
|
|
|
|
|
|-
|<big>'''2012'''</big>
|<big>[[T (SVT)]]</big>
|<big>[[S (SVS)]]</big>
|<big>L (SVL)</big>
|<big>[[Z (SVZ)]]</big>
|<big>[[E (SVE)]]</big>
|<big>Duo (SVD)</big>
|<big>Tap (SVJ)</big>
|
|-
|<big>'''2011'''</big>
|[[Z2 (VPCZ2)|<big>Z2 (VPCZ2)</big>]]
|<big>[[F2 (VPCF2)]]</big>
|[[S (VPCS)|<big>S (VPCS)</big>]]
|
|
|
|
|
|-
|<big>'''2010'''</big>
|<big>[[F1 (VPCF1)]]</big>
|[[Z1 (VPCZ1)|<big>Z1 (VPCZ1)</big>]]
|<big>[[E (VPCE)|E (VPCE)]]</big>
|<big>Y (VPCY)</big>
|<big>[[S_(VPCS)_(2010)|S (VPCS)]]</big>
|<big>[[B (VPCB)]]</big>
|<big>[[C (VPCC)]]</big>
|<big>M (VPCM)</big>
|-
|
|<big>J (VPCJ)</big>
|<big>[[P (VPCP)]]</big>
|
|
|
|
|
|
|-
|<big>'''2009'''</big>
|<big>[[VGN-NW]]</big>
|<big>[[VGN-P]]</big>
|<big>W (VPCW)</big>
|<big>[[X (VPCX)]]</big>
|<big>L (VPCL)</big>
|
|
|
|-
|<big>'''2008'''</big>
|<big>[[VGN-FW]]</big>
|<big>[[VGN-TT]]</big>
|<big>[[VGN-NS]]</big>
|<big>[[VGN-SR]]</big>
|<big>[[VGN-BZ]]</big>
|<big>[[VGN-Z]]</big>
|<big>[[VGN-CS]]</big>
|<big>[[VGN-AW]]</big>
|-
|
|<big>[[VGC-RT]]</big>
|<big>[[VGC-JS]]</big>
|<big>[[VGX-TP]]</big>
|
|
|
|
|
|-
|<big>'''2007'''</big>
|<big>[[VGN-FZ]]</big>
|<big>[[VGN-NR]]</big>
|<big>[[VGN-CR]]</big>
|<big>[[VGN-TZ]]</big>
|<big>[[VGN-N]]</big>
|
|
|
|-
|<big>'''2006'''</big>
|<big>[[VGN-SZ]]</big>
|<big>[[VGN-C]]</big>
|<big>[[VGN-FE]]</big>
|<big>[[VGN-AR]]</big>
|<big>[[VGN-FT]]</big>
|<big>[[VGN-G]]</big>
|<big>[[VGN-UX]]</big>
|<big>[[VGC-L]]</big>
|-
|
|<big>[[VGC-RM]]</big>
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|-
|<big>'''2005'''</big>
|<big>[[VGN-BX]]</big>
|<big>VGN-FS</big>
|<big>VGN-FJ</big>
|<big>[[VGN-TX]]</big>
|<big>VGN-Y</big>
|<big>VGC-H</big>
|<big>[[VGC-RC]]</big>
|<big>VGC-VA</big>
|-
|
|<big>VGX-XL</big>
|<big>VGC-RB</big>
|
|
|
|
|
|
|-
|<big>'''2004'''</big>
|<big>[[PCG-X505]]</big>
|<big>PCG-K</big>
|<big>PCV-HX</big>
|<big>VGN-B</big>
|<big>VGN-E</big>
|<big>VGN-K</big>
|<big>[[VGN-S]]</big>
|<big>VGN-T</big>
|-
|
|<big>VGN-A</big>
|<big>[[VGN-U]]</big>
|<big>VGC-M</big>
|<big>VGC-R</big>
|<big>VGC-V</big>
|<big>VGC-RA</big>
|<big>VGX-X</big>
|<big>VGC-HX</big>
|-
|<big>'''2003'''</big>
|<big>PCG-V505</big>
|<big>PCG-Z1</big>
|<big>[[PCG-FR]]</big>
|<big>[[PCG-TR]]</big>
|<big>PCV-P</big>
|<big>PCV-RS</big>
|<big>PCV-V</big>
|
|-
|<big>'''2002'''</big>
|<big>[[PCG-U]]</big>
|[[PCG-GR Series|<big>PCG-GR</big>]]
|<big>[[PCG-NV]]</big>
|<big>[[PCG-VX]]</big>
|<big>PCV-HS</big>
|<big>PCV-JX</big>
|<big>PCV-RZ</big>
|<big>[[PCV-W]]</big>
|-
|<big>'''2001'''</big>
|<big>[[PCG-R]]</big>
|<big>[[PCG-FX]]</big>
|<big>[[PCG-SRX]]</big>
|<big>[[PCV-MXS]]</big>
|
|
|
|
|-
|<big>'''2000'''</big>
|<big>[[PCG-XG]]</big>
|<big>[[PCG-GT]]</big>
|<big>[[PCG-QR]]</big>
|<big>[[PCG-SR]]</big>
|<big>PCV-J</big>
|<big>PCV-LX</big>
|<big>PCV-MX</big>
|<big>[[PCV-RX]]</big>
|-
|<big>'''1999'''</big>
|<big>[[PCG-F]]</big>
|<big>[[PCG-N505]]</big>
|<big>[[PCG-Z]]</big>
|<big>[[PCG-XR]]</big>
|<big>[[PCV-L]]</big>
|<big>[[PCV-R]]</big>
|
|
|-
|<big>'''1998'''</big>
|<big>[[PCG-C1]]</big>
|<big>[[PCG-C2GPS]]</big>
|<big>[[PCV-E]]</big>
|<big>[[PCV-M]]</big>
|<big>[[PCV-S]]</big>
|<big>PCV-2**</big>
|<big>PCG-8**</big>
|
|-
|<big>'''1997'''</big>
|<big>[[PCG-505]]</big>
|<big>[[PCG-7**]]</big>
|<big>[[PCV-T]]</big>
|
|
|
|
|
|-
|<big>'''1996'''</big>
|<big>[[PCV-**0|PCV-**0]]</big>
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|}
[[File:Vaio Logo.png|thumb|99x99px|left]]

VGN-AR

2025-08-29T14:26:24Z

StarX: /* Detailed Specs */

==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, all ARs have 2 SATA slots)

'''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]

C1X* (Second Revision)

2025-08-06T11:22:02Z

StarX: /* Problems */

==Overview==
[[File:PCG-C1XN.jpg|thumb|PCG-C1XE with PCGA-CD51 CD drive]]
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. Unlike the original C1 which used a regular Sony 16V power jack, the second revision and onwards used a proprietary 16V power connector, which only works with a handful of chargers that are quite hard to get. 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), proprietary expansion port

'''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". A new method that has been found is to remove the anti-glare film on top of the polariser which means might not need to be replaced.

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, due to the limited NeoMagic graphics. DOS gaming would perform well, however the video card does suffer from some compatibility issues. 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==
[https://archive.org/details/vaio-pcg-c-1-xn-product-recovery PCG-C1XN Recovery]

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

VPCCA

2025-06-30T17:49:13Z

StarX:

== Overview ==
[[File:Vpcca red.png|thumb|Sony VAIO VPCCA in red]]
The Sony VAIO VPCCA is a mid-range laptop released by Sony in 2011. It was primarily targeted towards home users, featuring a unique design that was offered in many colours, which were blue, pink, green, orange, white and red. The laptop used a transparent plastic design, which had coloured plastic underneath transparent plastic pieces on the lid and palmrest, giving it a unique finish. However, as a result of the 2 piece plastic design, dust and liquid can get between the pieces, which cannot be easily cleaned.
Most laptops featured AMD Radeon 6470M graphics, with other models having Intel HD 3000 graphics or the rarer Radeon 6630M graphics. High end models would also feature Blu-Ray drives, as usual for Sony, as well as a backlit keyboard, which provides a good typing experience.

== Detailed Specs ==
'''Processor:''' 2nd gen Intel i3, i5 and i7 dual core

'''Graphics:''' AMD Mobility Radeon HD 6470M (512MB VRAM) or HD 6630M (1GB VRAM), Intel HD 3000

'''Chipset:''' Intel HM65 chipset

'''Memory:''' 2GB to 8GB DDR3 1333MHz RAM (2x SODIMM, maximum 16GB)

'''Display:''' 14" 1366x768 or 1600x900 LED display

'''Storage:''' 2.5" HDD 250-750GB

'''Weight:''' 2.45-2.6kg

'''MSRP:'''

== Daily Usage Today ==
The VPCCA is still a very usable laptop today, with a RAM upgrade to 8GB and a SSD it will still run Windows 11 perfectly. Thanks to the Radeon GPU, you can also use this laptop for light or retro gaming. The Radeon GPU might need modded drivers or the original Sony drivers in order to work, as the VPCCA uses switchable graphics.

== Resources ==

== Credits ==

File:Vpcca red.png

2025-06-30T14:58:29Z

StarX:

vpcca

Recovery Discs

2025-06-29T13:00:59Z

StarX: /* More information */

'''We have launched our new all-in-one [https://archive.vaiolibrary.com/ recovery discs and drivers database].'''

== Adding new recovery discs ==

'''You can help us by dumping and uploading Recovery Media from any of the models in the [[Wanted Recovery Media|Wanted List]].'''

==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.

== Database ==

<big>The list on this page was replaced by our new database. Please access the website [https://archive.vaiolibrary.com/ here].</big>

== More information ==
'''We do not make a difference between languages''', you can sometimes change the language after the install. For XP, please use the SP3 swap method. On Vista and 7, you can use the tool Vistalizator to change the language.

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

On early XP and older machines, the discs will also usually have drivers located on the final disc.

Downloads are all on the '''Internet Archive''' or on our servers.

== Disclaimer ==

Some recovery discs are uploaded by us, some aren't, and so we offer no liability. Please see the Library's [[VAIO Library:General disclaimer|general disclaimer]].

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

PCG-FX

2025-06-29T01:53:36Z

StarX:

[[File:PCG-FX220 no background.png|thumb|PCG-FX220 booted to the Windows 2000 desktop]]
[[File:FX.png|thumb|PCG-FX]]

==Overview==
The Sony VAIO PCG-FX is a series of mid to high-end notebooks manufactured by Sony between February 2001 and November 2002.

Borrowing heavily from the [[PCG-F]], they were some of the best models of the 2001-2002 VAIO lineup.

They were offered in a 14.1" or 15" form factor, both having XGA TFT displays.

They were acclaimed upon their release because of their style, portability and build quality.

The PCG-FX is constructed fully out of plastic.[[File:PCG-FX.png|thumb|Product tour from Sony website of the PCG-FX 2001 lineup]]

On the other hand, many reviewers complained because of the difficulty in accessing the internal parts, especially the hard drive. Less-experienced users were obliged to send the notebook back to the vendor in order to change or swap parts.

They had some of the most powerful CPUs and GPUs of the market, that made them true replacements to a desktop, keeping them in the same category of the predecessor [[PCG-F]]. They were shipped with many audio and video editing programs, like Adobe Premiere and Sonic Foundry Sound Forge, and also some photo editing applications like Adobe Photoshop Elements.

The battery quality and duration were very good for the time, and they supported also dual-battery operation for an even better battery life, which would replace the modular floppy drive.

They were made for two years, the main difference between those was that the 2001 ones had Intel processors, while the 2002 versions had AMD ones.

Sony made many variations of this model, from budget models with an Intel Celeron and a 1024x768 display to high spec models featuring a 1400x1050 display and Athlon XP.
==Detailed Specs==
'''Processor''': Celeron 600MHz, Pentium III 900 MHz, 1GHz (2001 versions); AMD Duron 800MHz, AMD Athlon 4 1GHz, AMD Athlon XP 1400+ 1.4GHz, 1500+ 1.5GHz (2002 versions)

'''Graphics''': Intel 815EM with up to 11 MB SDRAM (2001 versions); ATI 3D RAGE Mobility-M1 8 MB SDRAM (2002 versions)

'''RAM''': 32 or 64 MB (expandable respectively to 160 MB and 192 MB, 2001 version); 128 MB SDRAM (expandable to 256 MB, 2002 version)

'''Display''': 14.1" or 15" XGA 1024 x 768 (SXGA 1400 x 1050 for the 2002's top-range) TFT LCD screen

'''Storage''': 2.5" Ultra ATA/66 (IDE)

'''Battery''': Lithium-Ion with dual battery operation support

'''Weight''': 14.1": 2.9 kg (102.2 oz / 6.3 pounds); 15": 3.4 kg (119.9 oz / 7.4 pounds)

'''Original OS''': Windows XP Home Edition; Windows XP Professional (models with "P" suffix); Windows 2000 Professional (models with "K" suffix)

'''MSRP (estimation):''' 1400 to 2200€
==Daily Usage Today==
These devices, due to their specs, cannot handle web browsing or running modern programs today.

Something more can be done with the Windows XP-shipped models, for example basic web browsing, thanks to many modern programs developed for that OS.

They can be used, in all the versions, 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==
[https://www.sony.jp/products/Consumer/PCOM/PCG-FX77/ Sony JP VAIO PCG-FX Series (2001) Presentation Page]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/pcg-fx/pcg-fx_presentation.pdf Sony JP VAIO PCG-FX Series Presentation PDF]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/pcg-fx/pcg-fx_windows2000usermanual.pdf Sony VAIO PCG-FX Series User Guide for Windows 2000]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/pcg-fx/pcg-fx_windowsXPusermanual.pdf Sony VAIO PCG-FX Series User Guide for Windows XP]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/pcg-fx/pcg-fx120_servicemanual.pdf Sony VAIO PCG-FX120 Service Manual]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/pcg-fx/pcg-fx210_servicemanual.pdf Sony VAIO PCG-FX210 Service Manual]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/pcg-fx/pcg-fx220-40-50-70_servicemanual.pdf Sony VAIO PCG-FX220 / PCG-FX240 / PCG-FX250 / PCG-FX270 Service Manual]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/pcg-fx/pcg-fx777-877_servicemanual.pdf Sony VAIO PCG-FX777 / PCG-FX888 Service Manual]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/pcg-fx/pcg-fx100series_specs.pdf Sony VAIO PCG-FX100 Series Specifications Sheet]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/pcg-fx/pcg-fx500series_specs.pdf Sony VAIO PCG-FX500 Series Specifications Sheet]

===== Disassembly Guide =====
[https://hotpcb.sakura.ne.jp/sony_pc/pcg_fx55s_bp/pcg_fx55s_01.html Sony VAIO PCG-FX Disassembly Guide]

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

==Downloads==
[https://archive.org/details/SonyPCGFX150Recovery Sony VAIO PCG-FX Series (PCG-FX150) Recovery Discs]

[https://archive.org/details/ucg-064-meumb-6-d-1_202405 Sony VAIO PCG-FX Series (PCG-FX200 Series) Windows Me Recovery Discs]

[https://archive.org/details/pcg-fx401405-recovery Sony VAIO PCG-FX Series (PCG-FX401 and PCG-FX405) Recovery Discs]

[https://archive.org/details/pcg-fxa36-33-32 Sony VAIO PCG-FXA Series (PCG-FXA36) Recovery Discs]

[https://archive.org/details/vaio-pcg-fxa-36-winxp-oem-00-00 Sony VAIO PCG-FXA Series (PCG-FXA36) HDD Image]

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

It is unknown if these discs are compatible with [[Sony VAIO Recovery Patcher (SVRP)|SVRP]].

Follow our [[Drivers Downloading Guides|guides]] to download and install drivers.
==Sources==
[https://sony.com/ Sony]

PCG-C2GPS

2025-06-29T01:45:46Z

StarX:

{{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 two 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-TX

2025-06-21T13:26:21Z

StarX: /* Daily Usage Today */

[[File:VGN-TX.jpg|alt=A metallic gray VGN-TX|thumb|380x380px|VGN-TX]]
==Overview==
The Sony VAIO VGN-TX is a high-end subnotebook released in 2005 by Sony. It sets its focus on portability over everything else.

The VGN-TX surprises with its quality and design, sporting a silver carbon fiber case. This results in a very sturdy and durable, yet light and comfortable laptop. With such premium materials in such a small formfactor, it's no wonder that the VGN-TX only weighs around 1.28kg.

You could have the VGN-TX in two monotone designs: silver or white. Three two-tone designs were also available: the aforementioned silver and gray design, or silver with copper coloured lid, as well as an extremely rare limited edition "Premium Blue" lid, which had 2 batches of 1000 units released in 2005 as well as 2006 only in Japan. These were also released in Europe as a limited edition directly from Sony, which would come with a special authenticity certificate, although the number of units is unknown.[[File:Rosegold VGN-TX.jpg|alt=A VGN-TX with a rosegold lid|thumb|380x380px|VGN-TX with a rose gold lid]]As it's a small and portable subnotebook, the VGN-TX came only equipped with a range of single-core processors. This, in combination with the small screen and absence of a dedicated GPU, makes for a very power efficient laptop. A maximum of 2GB RAM also evidences, that the 11" laptop was not made for performance. With the included 7800mAh battery, the VGN-TX could be expected to last up to 7.5 Hours on a single charge. An optional extended battery could also be fitted, which doubled the VGN-TX's battery capacity.
[[File:VAIO TX Premium Blue.png|thumb|VAIO TX in Premium Blue]]
The small subnotebook comes with an assortment of connectors and ports. Included are two USB 2.0 Ports, a VGA Out, Modem and LAN ports, headphone and microphone jacks, as well as an i-LINK Port. The Core Solo variant also added a fingerprint sensor. This doesn't make the VGN-TX a master of connectivity, but that's acceptable for an 11" laptop. Despite that, it features a DVD-RW drive, which is respectable for a subnotebook.

Heat and noise are a given, due to the VGN-TX's small size, but they are kept at a minium with the low-power CPU and the absense of a dedicated graphics card. At idle the subnotebook is barely audible, with 33dB. Under load the VGN-TX reaches a maximum of 42.3dB, as tested by NotebookCheck.

Windows XP Professional was offered as the operating system (Vista on later models), the VGN-TX came with a plethora of applications and software. Some examples being: PictureGear Studio, DVgate Plus, SonicStage, Adobe Acrobat, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Premiere and Norton Internet Security.

The VGN-TX was superseded by the VGN-TZ in April of 2007.

==Detailed Specs==
'''Processor:''' Pentium M 753 1.2GHz / 733 1.1GHz / Core Solo U1500 1.3 GHz

'''Graphics:''' Intel GMA 900/GMA 950

'''Display:''' 11.1" 16:9 1366x768 WXGA TFT

'''RAM:''' 1x SO-DIMM, 512MB or 1GB soldered (upgradable to 2GB)

'''OS:''' Windows XP Professional / Windows Vista Business

'''Weight:''' 1.3kg

==Daily Usage Today==
When combined with a lightweight operating system, such as Lubuntu, the VGN-TX is still usable for some light modern tasks, such as web browsing and text editing. Gaming, be it 2D or 3D, is not going to be a good experience, due to the low-power hardware. Due to the older connector style 1.8" IDE hard drive, SSD upgrade options are limited, so you are mostly stuck with the original hard drive, however the older 4th generation iPods do use the same connector, so solutions for those may work. (not tested)

==Resources==

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/vgn-tx/vgn-tx_userguide.pdf Sony VAIO VGN-TX Series User Guide]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/vgn-tx/vgn-tx_disassembly.pdf Sony VAIO VGN-TX Series Teardown Instructions]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/vgn-tx/vgn-tx_servicemanual.pdf Sony VAIO VGN-TX Series Service Manual (Schematics)]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/vgn-tx/vgn-tx37gp_specs.pdf Sony VAIO VGN-TX37GP Specifications Sheet]

==Downloads==
[https://archive.org/details/sony-vaio-vgn-tx600p-series-recovery-discs Sony VAIO VGN-TX Series (VGN-TX600P) Recovery Discs]

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

[https://archive.org/details/vgntx770p-recoverydiscs Sony VAIO VGN-TX Series (VGN-TX770P) Recovery Discs]

[https://archive.org/details/vaio-vgn-txn17p-winxp-disc1of2 Sony VAIO VGN-TX Series (VGN-TXN17P) Recovery Discs]

[https://archive.org/details/vaio-vgn-txn-17p-winxp-oem-with-recovery-00-00 Sony VAIO VGN-TX Series (VGN-TXN17P) HDD Image]

You (probably) 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.notebookcheck.com/Test-Sony-Vaio-VGN-TX5XN-Notebook.3740.0.html NotebookCheck][https://www.notebookcheck.com/Sony-Vaio-VGN-TX1HP.1069.0.html 2], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vaio_VGN-TX2 Wikipedia], [https://www.pcworld.idg.com.au/review/sony/vaio_vgn-tx27gp/219965/specs/ PCWorld] and [https://www.sony.com/en/ Sony]

Pictures: [https://www.notebookcheck.com/Test-Sony-Vaio-VGN-TX5XN-Notebook.3740.0.html#90209 NotebookCheck], [https://www.pcworld.idg.com.au/review/sony/vaio_vgn-tx27gp/219965/images/?image=5 PCWorld]

VGN-Z

2025-06-21T03:49:58Z

StarX:

[[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 in either 1366x768 or 1600x900.

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.

Sony 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. The T9900 variant of the VGN-Z also featured a full copper heatsink to help with cooling the powerful CPU, but good luck finding a VGN-Z in this spec as they are very rare.

==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, and even then the switching is somewhat buggy. Ideally 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. Be aware that this laptop only accepts low density dual rank modules (8 chips on each side), high-density modules (4 chips on each side) 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.

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]

VGN-FW

2025-06-04T21:23:48Z

StarX: /* Overview */

[[File:Sony VAIO VGN-FW.jpg|thumb|Standard Silver VGN-FW]]
[[File:VAIO VGN-FW in silver.jpg|alt=VAIO VGN-FW in silver|thumb|VAIO VGN-FW in silver]]

== Overview ==
The Sony VAIO VGN-FW series is a mid to high-end mainstream laptop computer range that was released by Sony in 2008. They were designed for home entertainment use.[[File:VAIO FW Nebula Upscaled.png|thumb|Nebula Signature Edition VGN-FW (upscaled)]]
[[File:VAIO FW Futuristic Upscaled.jpg|thumb|"Gaming" Signature Edition VGN-FW (upscaled)]]

The FW series were one of the first laptops that featured 1080p widescreen LCDs on certain models. They include "Penryn" Intel Core 2 Duo processors, and a optional middle-class ATI Mobility Radeon HD 3470/3650 that were later replaced by the HD 4570/4650. At the time, people wanted the FW to have a better, higher-end GPU, however Sony didn't offer that. As usual for Sony, they also featured a Blu-Ray drive on mid and high end models, either a reader or Blu-Ray writer on higher end models. Japanese FWs would also include an optional TV tuner, as well as an infrared remote.
[[File:White VGN-FW.jpg|thumb|White VGN-FW from Japan]]
They featured Sony's iconic cylinder design power button, and were mostly built out of plastic for the common silver models, only on some models the lid was made of magnesium. However, Sony offered Signature and black variants that are so rare, we couldn't find any reviews about them. It is possible that the Nebula Signature editions are made of a metal build instead of plastic. The second Signature Edition that was offered was a standard FW with a special futuristic design on the lid, known as "Gaming" by Sony. The lid has a glossy finish, and the rest of the device is just a standard silver FW. There were also white models sold only in Japan, as well as "Chocolate Brown" FWs, featuring a brown lid and black palmrest.[[File:Black VGN-FW.jpg|thumb|Black VGN-FW from Japan]]The FW series run on DDR2 RAM with support up to 8GB, so you could fill them with 2 4GB sticks that could break your bank, and later high-end FWs would actually offer this as an option. Earlier models shipped with Windows Vista while later models shipped with Windows 7.
No special security features or a fingerprint sensor were included, which makes sense for a laptop intended for home use.

== Detailed Specs ==

'''Processor:''' "Penryn" Intel Core 2 Duo (not soldered)

'''Graphics:''' Intel GMA X4500MHD or ATI Mobility Radeon HD 3470, HD 3650, or HD 4650/4570

'''RAM:''' DDR2 (2 slots, upgradable to 8GB)

'''Display:''' 1600x900, or 1920x1080 16.4" widescreen Sony X-Black dual-lamp CCFL LCD

'''Storage:''' 2.5" SATA

'''OS:''' Microsoft Windows Vista Home Premium/Ultimate (2008 models) or Windows 7 Home Premium/Professional (2009 models)

'''Weight:''' 3.1 kg

== Daily Usage Today ==
The FW series is still very usable today. Depending on your model of dedicated GPU, you can do some very light gaming or play older games. Otherwise, they are excellent for content consumption, especially the models with the 1080p display. Web browsing and office tasks are easily done on these machines. Windows 11 runs correctly, however operating systems like Windows 7 or Linux are the best choices for these devices. However, Windows 10 will be usable with an SSD upgrade, especially if you have an ATI variant. Core 2 Quad upgrades are also possible on this model, with 2 modifications just like on the AW (guide coming soon)

The VAIO Library recommends to upgrade the HDD to an SSD, and to upgrade the RAM to at least 4GB, or 8GB if you want to break the bank.

== Resources ==
YouTube videos:

[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ZzSyaR1_SM The VAIO FW Wins Over Mother and Son in Microsoft Commercial], by Sony

[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=py84XbbrAR4 The Sony VAIO FW Nebula Signature Collection VGN-FW590], by Martin L

[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d2UtFD8Py8U Hands-on With The Sony VAIO FW Signature Collection VGN-FW590FFD], by sonyinsider

[https://archive.org/details/vgn-fw_recovery VGN-FW Recovery Disks] --> These are model locked. Please use SVRP to unlock them, which can be found on the menu of the site.

==Downloads==
Follow our [[Drivers Downloading Guides|guides]] to download and install drivers. Recovery discs are also avaliable, and will be downloadable very soon.

== Sources ==
[https://www.sony.com/en/ Sony], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sony_Vaio_FW_series Wikipedia], and [https://www.notebookcheck.net/Review-Sony-Vaio-VGN-FW51MF-Notebook.23709.0.html NotebookCheck]

Flip 11

2025-05-17T00:10:43Z

StarX:

{{Infobox Specs
| name = Flip 11
| image = VAIO FIT 11a.png
| subtitle = Flip 11 in white
| series = SVF11
| rel = 2014
| cpu = Intel Celeron N2920 (1.86 GHz) or Intel Pentium N3520 (2.16 GHz), quad-core
| gpu = Intel HD Graphics (Bay Trail)
| chipset = Intel Bay Trail
| memory = 2GB, 4GB or 8GB DDR3 (soldered)
| display = 11.6" 1920x1080 (Panasonic MEI96A2) 16:9 IPS LED LCD with 10-point touch and pen input, compatible with VGP-STD2 capacitive pen
| storage = 128GB or 256GB M.2 SATA SSD
| audio = Intel Valleyview
| network = Broadcom BCM43142
| os = Windows 8 or 8.1 (64 bit)
| battery = VGP-BPS42, 23Wh Li-ion
| weight = 1.28 kg (2.82 lbs)
| size = 285 x 200 x 19 mm
| msrp = around $600 to $800 US
}}

==Overview==
The Sony VAIO Flip 11 (also called Flip 11A or Flip 11N) are a series of mid-range notebooks released by Sony in February 2014. It is the last VAIO model announced by Sony, after which the VAIO brand was sold off to JIP.

Being the most portable of the [[Fit (SVF) Series]], they have a 11.6" display with a 1920x1080 resolution.

Constructed with a metal lid and plastic palmrest and available in silver, black, and pink, their strengths are their portability, unique flip system, use of high-quality materials and the touchscreen. It also features a rear 8-megapixel camera placed on the bottom of the laptop, just like on the Flip 13.

Their Celeron or Pentium CPU and HD Graphics IGP were based on the same architecture as Atom of the same generation and tuned towards efficiency, sacrificing huge performance for low heat and low power consumption.

This device wasn't produced anymore after the warning that follows was published, so the most common versions of the Fit Series are the Fit 13, 14 and 15. It was reported that around 26,000 units were sold worldwide.

⚠️'''WARNING⚠️: Sony advised not to use these laptops because of the battery that had "potential to overheat resulting in partial burns to the housing of the PC", for more info, check out the official website: [https://www.sony.com/electronics/support/laptop-pc-svf-series/svf11n13cxs/articles/S1F1502?model=SVF11N13CXS Sony Support link]; later they started a free repair program still usable today, if the PC is affected: [https://www.sony.com/electronics/support/serial-number-checker/16 Sony Support link]'''

'''If you have an affected laptop, do NOT update the BIOS, as later versions (R0260DE, R0270DE) will disable charging unless the battery has been changed with an unaffected version.'''

==Daily Usage Today==
This device is still usable today for lightweight tasks like web browsing and text editing, or cloud-gaming.

This device will fully work on Windows 11 with proper drivers, but it may experience some lags due to its weak CPU and limiting RAM amount, therefore you are better off running a lighter OS such as Linux.

When buying these machines, the pen is often not included as they get lost easily and unfortunately the VGP-STD2 pens are quite expensive used. A cheap alternative is any N-trig compatible pen (e.g Surface tablet pens), an ASUS pen was tested on the Flip 11 and it worked, including the buttons and pressure sensitivity as the VGP-STD2 uses N-trig technology.

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

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

==Sources==
[https://sony.com/ Sony], [https://www.notebookcheck.net/Sony-Vaio-SV-F-Series.92403.0.html NotebookCheck]

Flip 11

2025-05-16T20:02:47Z

StarX:

{{Infobox Specs
| name = Flip 11
| image = VAIO FIT 11a.png
| subtitle = Flip 11 in white
| series = SVF11
| rel = 2014
| cpu = Intel Celeron N2920 (1.86 GHz) or Intel Pentium N3520 (2.16 GHz), quad-core
| gpu = Intel HD Graphics (Bay Trail)
| chipset = Intel Bay Trail
| memory = 2GB, 4GB or 8GB DDR3 (soldered)
| display = 11.6" 1920x1080 (Panasonic MEI96A2) 16:9 IPS LED LCD with 10-point touch and pen input, compatible with VGP-STD2 capacitive pen
| storage = 128GB or 256GB M.2 SATA SSD
| audio = Intel Valleyview
| network = Broadcom BCM43142
| os = Windows 8 or 8.1 (64 bit)
| battery = VGP-BPS42, 23Wh Li-ion
| weight = 1.28 kg (2.82 lbs)
| size = 285 x 200 x 19 mm
| msrp = around $600 to $800 US
}}

==Overview==
The Sony VAIO Flip 11 (also called Flip 11A or Flip 11N) are a series of mid-range notebooks released by Sony in February 2014. It is the last VAIO model announced by Sony, after which the VAIO brand was sold off to JIP.

Being the most portable of the [[Fit (SVF) Series]], they have a 11.6" display with a 1920x1080 resolution.

Constructed with a metal lid and plastic palmrest and available in silver, black, and pink, their strengths are their portability, unique flip system, use of high-quality materials and the touchscreen.

Their Celeron or Pentium CPU and HD Graphics IGP were based on the same architecture as Atom of the same generation and tuned towards efficiency, sacrificing huge performance for low heat and low power consumption.

This device wasn't produced anymore after the warning that follows was published, so the most common versions of the Fit Series are the Fit 13, 14 and 15. It was reported that around 26,000 units were sold worldwide.

⚠️'''WARNING⚠️: Sony advised not to use these laptops because of the battery that had "potential to overheat resulting in partial burns to the housing of the PC", for more info, check out the official website: [https://www.sony.com/electronics/support/laptop-pc-svf-series/svf11n13cxs/articles/S1F1502?model=SVF11N13CXS Sony Support link]; later they started a free repair program still usable today, if the PC is affected: [https://www.sony.com/electronics/support/serial-number-checker/16 Sony Support link]'''

'''If you have an affected laptop, do NOT update to the BIOS version R0270DE, as it will disable charging unless the battery has been changed with an unaffected version.'''

==Daily Usage Today==
This device is still usable today for lightweight tasks like web browsing and text editing, or cloud-gaming.

This device will fully work on Windows 11 with proper drivers, but it may experience some lags due to its weak CPU and limiting RAM amount, therefore you are better off running a lighter OS such as Linux.

When buying these machines, the pen is often not included as they get lost easily and unfortunately the VGP-STD2 pens are quite expensive used. A cheap alternative is any N-trig compatible pen (e.g Surface tablet pens), an ASUS pen was tested on the Flip 11 and it worked, including the buttons and pressure sensitivity as the VGP-STD2 uses N-trig technology.

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

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

==Sources==
[https://sony.com/ Sony], [https://www.notebookcheck.net/Sony-Vaio-SV-F-Series.92403.0.html NotebookCheck]

Flip 11

2025-05-16T19:50:28Z

StarX: /* Daily Usage Today */

{{Infobox Specs
| name = Flip 11
| image = VAIO FIT 11a.png
| subtitle = Flip 11 in white
| series = SVF11
| rel = 2014
| cpu = Intel Celeron N2920 (1.86 GHz) or Intel Pentium N3520 (2.16 GHz), quad-core
| gpu = Intel HD Graphics (Bay Trail)
| chipset = Intel Bay Trail
| memory = 2GB, 4GB or 8GB DDR3 (soldered)
| display = 11.6" 1920x1080 (Panasonic MEI96A2) 16:9 IPS LED LCD with 10-point touch and pen input, compatible with VGP-STD2 capacitive pen
| storage = 128GB or 256GB M.2 SATA SSD
| audio = Intel Valleyview
| network = Broadcom BCM43142
| os = Windows 8 or 8.1 (64 bit)
| battery = VGP-BPS42, 23Wh Li-ion
| weight = 1.28 kg (2.82 lbs)
| size = 285 x 200 x 19 mm
| msrp = around $600 to $800 US
}}

==Overview==
The Sony VAIO Flip 11 (also called Flip 11A or Flip 11N) are a series of mid-range notebooks released by Sony in February 2014. It is the last VAIO model announced by Sony, after which the VAIO brand was sold off to JIP.

Being the most portable of the [[Fit (SVF) Series]], they have a 11.6" display with a 1920x1080 resolution.

Constructed with a metal lid and plastic palmrest and available in silver, black, and pink, their strengths are their portability, unique flip system, use of high-quality materials and the touchscreen.

Their Celeron or Pentium CPU and HD Graphics IGP were based on the same architecture as Atom of the same generation and tuned towards efficiency, sacrificing huge performance for low heat and low power consumption.

This device wasn't produced anymore after the warning that follows was published, so the most common versions of the Fit Series are the Fit 13, 14 and 15. It was reported that around 26,000 units were sold worldwide.

⚠️'''WARNING⚠️: Sony advised not to use these laptops because of the battery that had "potential to overheat resulting in partial burns to the housing of the PC", for more info, check out the official website: [https://www.sony.com/electronics/support/laptop-pc-svf-series/svf11n13cxs/articles/S1F1502?model=SVF11N13CXS Sony Support link]; later they started a free repair program still usable today, if the PC is affected: [https://www.sony.com/electronics/support/serial-number-checker/16 Sony Support link]'''

==Daily Usage Today==
This device is still usable today for lightweight tasks like web browsing and text editing, or cloud-gaming.

This device will fully work on Windows 11 with proper drivers, but it may experience some lags due to its weak CPU and limiting RAM amount, therefore you are better off running a lighter OS such as Linux.

When buying these machines, the pen is often not included as they get lost easily and unfortunately the VGP-STD2 pens are quite expensive used. A cheap alternative is any N-trig compatible pen (e.g Surface tablet pens), an ASUS pen was tested on the Flip 11 and it worked, including the buttons and pressure sensitivity as the VGP-STD2 uses N-trig technology.

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

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

==Sources==
[https://sony.com/ Sony], [https://www.notebookcheck.net/Sony-Vaio-SV-F-Series.92403.0.html NotebookCheck]

Flip 11

2025-05-16T19:49:10Z

StarX:

{{Infobox Specs
| name = Flip 11
| image = VAIO FIT 11a.png
| subtitle = Flip 11 in white
| series = SVF11
| rel = 2014
| cpu = Intel Celeron N2920 (1.86 GHz) or Intel Pentium N3520 (2.16 GHz), quad-core
| gpu = Intel HD Graphics (Bay Trail)
| chipset = Intel Bay Trail
| memory = 2GB, 4GB or 8GB DDR3 (soldered)
| display = 11.6" 1920x1080 (Panasonic MEI96A2) 16:9 IPS LED LCD with 10-point touch and pen input, compatible with VGP-STD2 capacitive pen
| storage = 128GB or 256GB M.2 SATA SSD
| audio = Intel Valleyview
| network = Broadcom BCM43142
| os = Windows 8 or 8.1 (64 bit)
| battery = VGP-BPS42, 23Wh Li-ion
| weight = 1.28 kg (2.82 lbs)
| size = 285 x 200 x 19 mm
| msrp = around $600 to $800 US
}}

==Overview==
The Sony VAIO Flip 11 (also called Flip 11A or Flip 11N) are a series of mid-range notebooks released by Sony in February 2014. It is the last VAIO model announced by Sony, after which the VAIO brand was sold off to JIP.

Being the most portable of the [[Fit (SVF) Series]], they have a 11.6" display with a 1920x1080 resolution.

Constructed with a metal lid and plastic palmrest and available in silver, black, and pink, their strengths are their portability, unique flip system, use of high-quality materials and the touchscreen.

Their Celeron or Pentium CPU and HD Graphics IGP were based on the same architecture as Atom of the same generation and tuned towards efficiency, sacrificing huge performance for low heat and low power consumption.

This device wasn't produced anymore after the warning that follows was published, so the most common versions of the Fit Series are the Fit 13, 14 and 15. It was reported that around 26,000 units were sold worldwide.

⚠️'''WARNING⚠️: Sony advised not to use these laptops because of the battery that had "potential to overheat resulting in partial burns to the housing of the PC", for more info, check out the official website: [https://www.sony.com/electronics/support/laptop-pc-svf-series/svf11n13cxs/articles/S1F1502?model=SVF11N13CXS Sony Support link]; later they started a free repair program still usable today, if the PC is affected: [https://www.sony.com/electronics/support/serial-number-checker/16 Sony Support link]'''

==Daily Usage Today==
This device is still usable today for lightweight tasks like web browsing and text editing, or cloud-gaming.

This device will fully work on Windows 11 with proper drivers, but it may experience some lags due to its weak CPU and limiting RAM amount, therefore you are better off running a lighter OS such as Linux.

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

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

==Sources==
[https://sony.com/ Sony], [https://www.notebookcheck.net/Sony-Vaio-SV-F-Series.92403.0.html NotebookCheck]

VGN-TZ

2025-05-14T12:57:38Z

StarX:

This page is currently WIP!!

== Overview ==
[[File:VAIO VGN-TZ from front.jpg|thumb|VAIO VGN-TZ from front]]
The Sony VAIO VGN-TZ was a high end notebook released by Sony in 2007. At the time it was praised by reviewers as the best notebook of the year. It was praised in every way possible, such as luxury design, screen, size and weight, battery life and features, except for performance, which was not the best due to the included ultra-low voltage Core 2 Duo processor and its price which ranged roughly from €1500 to €2700 and the included Sony "bloatware". The TZ came in multiple colours, including a premium carbon fiber option, with only the lid being changed just like with the TX, except for the white version which had a white palmrest. It was named by CNET as "a stunning example of what an ultra-portable laptop should be." This was even the laptop used by Steve Jobs to compare against the Macbook Air in 2008.

To celebrate the 10th anniversary of VAIO computers, Sony released the VGN-TZ91 505 10th Anniversary Edition, which was supposed to look like the first PCG-505 and came with a specially designed mouse and case. Good luck getting one as only 505 were sold in Japan, so they are very rare and almost impossible to find. More information can be found in the Resources tab.

== Detailed Specs ==
[[File:VAIO TZ from behind.jpg|thumb|VAIO VGN-TZ from behind]]
'''Processor:''' Intel Celeron M ULV, Intel Core 2 Duo U7500/U7600/U7700 ULV

'''Graphics:''' Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 950

'''Chipset:''' Intel 945GMS Express (533MHz)

'''Memory:''' 1 slot DDR2 SDRAM PC2-5300 SO-DIMM Standard: 2GB, Maximum: 2GB (4GB DIMMs not supported)

'''Display:''' 11.1" wide TFT color LCD (Anti reflective coating) WXGA 1366 x 768 pixels

'''Storage:''' 80GB, 100GB, 120GB 1.8" SATA HDD (4200RPM), 64GB SSD + 2.5" SATA HDD in place of optical drive
[[File:Tz colors.png|thumb|All standard colour combinations of the VGN-TZ]]
[[File:Anniversary VGN-TZ.png|alt=Anniversary VGN-TZ|thumb|Anniversary VGN-TZ]]
'''Weight:''' 1.22kg

'''MSRP:''' €1500 to €2700

'''Original OS:''' Windows Vista (Home Basic, Home Premium, Business or Ultimate)

== Daily Usage Today ==
[[File:Front of the Anniversary edition.png|alt=Front of the Anniversary edition|thumb|Front of the Anniversary edition]]
The Sony VAIO VGN-TZ is still usable today, to some extent. It can do office tasks, such as text editing, presentations and spreadsheets on its beautiful display and excellent keyboard and can browse the web fine. It cannot play any modern games and struggles with games of its era too, due to the small size not allowing for any dedicated graphics. Due to the low 2GB RAM, it's unlikely to run modern Windows operating systems very well, and also struggles with running the modern web, although it is manageable with a lightweight OS such as Linux. You will need an SSD to get the TZ running decently, which can be done for cheap using a ZIF to mSATA adapter, however the BIOS limits the speed to 33MB/s. This can be fixed with some workarounds but they are only for Windows, so the best option is a proper IDE SSD. Installing a ZIF adapter in the VAIO will also need a plastic piece installed in between the cable and connector to make the cable thicker, as the flex cable on the VAIO is too thin to make proper contact with most SSD adapters.

Be prepared to spend a pretty penny on this laptop though, as it isn't very common due to its high launch price.

==Downloads==

[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) Recovery Discs]

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

'''NOTE: These will work on only the specified model''', for example, VGN-TZ21WN recovery discs won't work on a VGN-TZ31MN. Please see the Compatibility Problems section on the [[Recovery Discs]] page for more information.

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

[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v51TWez3TWA VAIO TZ advert]

[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JjgdXG6UnnQ VAIO TZ Disassembly guide]

[https://new-launches.blogspot.com/2007/11/sony-vaio-10th-anniversary.html VAIO VGN-TZ Anniversary edition info]

[http://www.vaio.sony.co.jp/Products/TZlimited/ More VAIO VGN-TZ Anniversary edition info]

[https://www.nbrchive.net/xfa/vaio-sony.8/VAIO%20TZ%20Guide%20for%20SSD%20install%20or%20upgrade/ VGN-TZ SSD 33MB/s limit workaround (Windows only)]

==Credits==

[http://www.vaio.sony.co.jp/Products/TZ1/spec_retail.html#first Sony] [https://www.inversenet.co.jp/pclist/product/SONY-note/VGN%252DTZ73B.html Inversenet] [http://www.vaio.sony.co.jp/Products/TZ4/spec_vom1.html Sony] [https://www.cnet.com/reviews/sony-vaio-tz-review/ CNET] [https://www.trustedreviews.com/reviews/sony-vaio-vgn-tz31mn-ultra-portable-notebook Trusted Reviews] [https://www.notebookcheck.net/Sony-Vaio-VGN-TZ-Series.10632.0.html Notebookcheck]

Fit 15

2025-05-11T19:08:10Z

StarX:

{{Infobox Specs
| name = Fit 15
| image = SVF15E_white.jpeg
| subtitle = Fit 15 in white
| series = SVF15
| rel = 2013
| cpu = Ivy Bridge/Haswell dual-core i3, i5, i7 or Pentium
| gpu = Intel HD Graphics 4000/4400 + NVIDIA GeForce GT 735M, 740M (optional)
| chipset = Intel HM76
| memory = DDR3 (DDR3L on Haswell models), max 16GB (4GB soldered for Fit 15A)
| display = 15.6" 1366x768 (ChiMei N156BGE-L41) or 1920x1080 (ChiMei N156HGE-LB1) TN LED LCD, non-touch or touchscreen
| storage = 2.5" HDD slot, DVD/Blu-Ray Drive
| audio = Intel Panther Point PCH, Stereo speakers + subwoofer (S-FORCE Front Surround 3D, "Clear Phase", "xLOUD", ClearAudio+mode, "VPT")
| network = Realtek RTL8168/8111 Gigabit Ethernet, Broadcom BCM43142
| os = Windows 8
| battery = '''Fit 15A:''' VGP-BPS34, 41Wh Li-ion (internal)
'''Fit 15E:''' VGP-BPS35A, 40Wh Li-ion (external)
| weight = '''Fit 15A:''' 2.3 kg (5.07 lbs)
'''Fit 15E:''' 2.5 kg (5.51 lbs)
| size = '''Fit 15A:''' 379 x 255 x 22.5 mm
'''Fit 15E:''' 380 x 261 x 25 mm
| msrp = around $600 to $1200 US
}}

==Overview==
The Sony VAIO Fit 15 (SVF15, also known as Fit 15A (SVF15A) or Fit 15E (SVF15)) is a low to mid-range laptop released by Sony in 2013, along with the SVF14. These were intended to be budget notebooks that were also thin and light, featuring low voltage soldered Intel CPUs and optional switchable NVIDIA graphics unlike the SVE line of laptops. The Fit 15E consists of an all plastic build, which is fairly low quality, or for the higher-end model, the Fit 15A, a part metal build, with the lid and parts of the palmrest made out of metal.

Surprisingly for a budget laptop, it features a stereo speaker + subwoofer setup, which sounds good. High end options for the SVF15 include a backlit keyboard, Blu-Ray drive, 1920x1080 screen and a switchable NVIDIA GeForce GT 740M with 2GB GDDR3 VRAM. Most SVF15s also featured a touchscreen as did other Windows 8 VAIOs. All SVF15s also came with a built in NFC antenna on the palm-rest, which could be used to transfer data or connect to devices such as Sony NFC headphones.

The SVF15 would then get a refresh, featuring the all-new Intel 4th gen CPUs, however other than that nothing else was changed. After Sony's computer division was sold to JIP (VAIO Corporation) in 2014, the design would further be used to make other newer models, known as the VJF15. These would have CPUs ranging from low end Celerons to powerful 6th gen HQ series CPUs.

==Daily Usage Today==
The SVF15 is still usable, with good performance if upgraded to an SSD and at least 8GB RAM, although low end Pentium models may suffer from some slowdowns. The NVIDIA GeForce GT 740M was a low end GPU at the time, so will only be able to handle light gaming such as Minecraft. It is very important to check the hinges on the VAIO Fit 14E and 15E line, as they are very well known for breaking due to the low quality all plastic build. Do not buy any SVF15 if you see cracks near the hinge area on the palm-rest or the lid, this is a sign of the hinge failing.

==Resources==

==Credits==
[https://sony.com Sony], [https://www.notebookcheck.net/Review-Sony-Vaio-SV-F15A1S2ES-Notebook.96441.0.html NotebookCheck] - [https://www.notebookcheck.net/Review-Sony-Vaio-Fit-SV-F1521V6EB-Notebook.107276.0.html 2]

SVT13

2025-04-22T00:09:40Z

StarX:

{{Infobox Specs
| name = SVT13
| image = SVT13 Touch.png
| subtitle = SVT13 Touch variant
| series = SVT13
| rel = 2012
| cpu = Intel Core i3 2367M, Intel Core i5 3317U, Intel Core i7 3517U
| gpu = Intel HD Graphics 3000/4000
| chipset = Intel HM76
| memory = 4GB soldered, 1 DDR3-1600 SODIMM slot (Maximum 8GB module, 12GB total)
| display = 1366x768 13.3" LED display, touchscreen on Windows 8 models
| storage = HDD+24GB mSATA SSD or 2.5" SSD (mSATA not soldered if it had SSD or HDD only)
| audio = Stereo speakers, microphone
| os = Windows 7, Windows 8
| weight = 1.7kg (including battery)
| size = 226.0 x 323.0 x 19.0mm
| msrp = around $400-800 USD
}}

== Overview ==
[[File:Svt13 non touch.png|thumb|SVT13 Non-touchscreen version]]
The Sony VAIO SVT13 is a 13" Ultrabook released by Sony in 2012. It was targeted towards business users, and was supposed to be a thin and light laptop with long battery life. The SVT13 featured both 2nd gen and 3rd gen Core i CPUs, the 3rd gen models using the newly introduced low voltage U series of CPUs, leading to less heat and longer battery life. As a result, the 3rd gen SVTs run very cool when idle and even under load, topping out at 75c when stressed.

The SVT13 is constructed using aluminium and plastic, featuring an aluminium lid, aluminium palmrest and plastic bottom case, so build quality was solid and the laptop feels premium to the touch. The SVT13 was also the first VAIO to feature a hybrid SSD+HDD solution, containing a 32GB mSATA SSD as a cache along with the 2.5" HDD. This was done using Intel Rapid Start Technology, which allowed the laptop to load commonly accessed data from the SSD, and also suspend to the SSD, allowing for fast wake-up times and the laptop to be completely off. There were also SSD only models released too, featuring a 2.5" SSD, however the mSATA slot is not soldered on SVTs that did not have a cache. The SVT13 had good I/O for a thin laptop, featuring a USB 3.0 port, HDMI, VGA and Ethernet.

A later update of the SVT13 was also released following the release of Windows 8, this time featuring a revamped BIOS with UEFI support and a touchscreen. These can be identified by the all glass screen, as well as the Windows 8 logo on the Windows key instead of the 7 logo.

== Daily Usage Today ==
The SVT13 is still usable today for light browsing tasks and media consumption, however games will not run very well due to the integrated graphics. Windows 11 runs good on the laptop as well, with most functions working apart from brightness keys. It is recommended to upgrade the laptop with at least 8GB total RAM and SSD for good performance with Windows 10 and above.

== Resources ==

== Credits ==

SVT13

2025-04-22T00:09:25Z

StarX:

{{Infobox Specs
| name = VGN-AW
| image = SVT13 Touch.png
| subtitle = SVT13 Touch variant
| series = SVT13
| rel = 2012
| cpu = Intel Core i3 2367M, Intel Core i5 3317U, Intel Core i7 3517U
| gpu = Intel HD Graphics 3000/4000
| chipset = Intel HM76
| memory = 4GB soldered, 1 DDR3-1600 SODIMM slot (Maximum 8GB module, 12GB total)
| display = 1366x768 13.3" LED display, touchscreen on Windows 8 models
| storage = HDD+24GB mSATA SSD or 2.5" SSD (mSATA not soldered if it had SSD or HDD only)
| audio = Stereo speakers, microphone
| os = Windows 7, Windows 8
| weight = 1.7kg (including battery)
| size = 226.0 x 323.0 x 19.0mm
| msrp = around $400-800 USD
}}

== Overview ==
[[File:Svt13 non touch.png|thumb|SVT13 Non-touchscreen version]]
The Sony VAIO SVT13 is a 13" Ultrabook released by Sony in 2012. It was targeted towards business users, and was supposed to be a thin and light laptop with long battery life. The SVT13 featured both 2nd gen and 3rd gen Core i CPUs, the 3rd gen models using the newly introduced low voltage U series of CPUs, leading to less heat and longer battery life. As a result, the 3rd gen SVTs run very cool when idle and even under load, topping out at 75c when stressed.

The SVT13 is constructed using aluminium and plastic, featuring an aluminium lid, aluminium palmrest and plastic bottom case, so build quality was solid and the laptop feels premium to the touch. The SVT13 was also the first VAIO to feature a hybrid SSD+HDD solution, containing a 32GB mSATA SSD as a cache along with the 2.5" HDD. This was done using Intel Rapid Start Technology, which allowed the laptop to load commonly accessed data from the SSD, and also suspend to the SSD, allowing for fast wake-up times and the laptop to be completely off. There were also SSD only models released too, featuring a 2.5" SSD, however the mSATA slot is not soldered on SVTs that did not have a cache. The SVT13 had good I/O for a thin laptop, featuring a USB 3.0 port, HDMI, VGA and Ethernet.

A later update of the SVT13 was also released following the release of Windows 8, this time featuring a revamped BIOS with UEFI support and a touchscreen. These can be identified by the all glass screen, as well as the Windows 8 logo on the Windows key instead of the 7 logo.

== Daily Usage Today ==
The SVT13 is still usable today for light browsing tasks and media consumption, however games will not run very well due to the integrated graphics. Windows 11 runs good on the laptop as well, with most functions working apart from brightness keys. It is recommended to upgrade the laptop with at least 8GB total RAM and SSD for good performance with Windows 10 and above.

== Resources ==

== Credits ==

Flip 14

2025-04-22T00:02:05Z

StarX: /* Daily Usage Today */

{{Infobox Specs
| name = Flip 14
| image = Flip 14 white.png
| subtitle = Flip 14 in Silver
| series = SVF14N
| rel = 2013
| cpu = Intel Pentium 3556U, i3-4005U, i5-4200U and i7-4500U, Haswell based, dual-core
| gpu = Intel HD Graphics 4400 or Intel HD Graphics for Pentium models
| chipset = Intel Lynx Point-LP
| memory = 4 or 8GB DDR3 RAM (single SODIMM slot)
| display = 14" 1920x1080 (LG Philips LP140WF1-SPU1) 16:9 TRILUMINOS IPS LED with 10-point touch and pen input, compatible with VGP-STD2 capacitive pen
| storage = 2.5" SATA, came with SSHD or SSD
| audio = Intel Lynx Point-LP
| network = Realtek RTL8168/8111 Gigabit Ethernet, Intel Wireless-N 7260
| os = Windows 8 or 8.1 (64 bit)
| battery = VGP-BPS40, 48Wh Li-ion
| weight = 1.96 kg (4.32 lbs)
| size = 336.1 x 234.9 x 19.8 mm
| msrp = around $900 to $1200 US
}}

==Overview==
The Sony VAIO Flip 14 (SVF14N, also known as Flip/Fit 14A), is a mid-range 2-in-1 laptop released by Sony in 2013. This was the smaller version of the Flip 15, featuring similar internals and looks but lacking the NVIDIA GPU and using a 14" display.

The VAIO Flip 14 used a very interesting design compared to other 2-in-1 laptops of the time, where the screen would flip over along a central hinge to allow it to be used as a tablet, hence the name of the laptop. This also had the effect of being able to prop up the screen at an angle, by flipping it partially, which made it ideal for watching movies.

It used a premium construction, consisting of mostly aluminium and a plastic bottom cover, which felt premium to the touch, and the Flip 14 was available in 3 different colours including Grey, Silver and Pink.

==Daily Usage Today==
The Flip 14 is still a very usable laptop for daily tasks, and will run Windows 11 with ease. However, do expect some fan noise as these ran very hot from the factory, just like the Pro 13. Due to the integrated graphics and limited dual core CPU, these won't run more complex tasks or games, however they are suitable for word processing, web browsing and even some older games. We recommend upgrading to the maximum of 8GB RAM, as well as upgrading to an SSD to make the most of the laptop. One common issue with the Flip 14 as well as the Flip 15 is that the internal screen cable fails due to wear from flipping the laptop over. This can result in lines on the screen and sometimes no picture at all, the only easy way to fix this is to replace the display midframe, as the flex cable is built into the mechanism and is very complicated to remove. When buying these machines, the pen is often not included as they get lost easily and unfortunately the VGP-STD2 pens are quite expensive used. A cheap alternative is any N-trig compatible pen (e.g Surface tablet pens), an ASUS pen was tested on the Flip 14 and it worked, including the buttons and pressure sensitivity as the VGP-STD2 uses N-trig technology.

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

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

==Sources==

[https://sony.com/ Sony], [https://www.notebookcheck.net/Sony-Vaio-Flip-14A-SVF14N13CXB-Convertible-Review.117055.0.html NotebookCheck]

VGN-FZ

2025-04-11T01:07:06Z

StarX: /* Overview */

[[File:Vaio VGN-FZ 1.jpg|alt=A VGN-FZ with its original factory stickers|thumb|VGN-FZ with its original factory stickers]]
==Overview==
The Sony VAIO FZ Series is a range of mid-high-end laptops released by Sony in 2007 and replaced in 2008. It replaced its predecessor, the [[VGN-FE|FE Series]]. The FZ was later replaced by the [[VGN-FW|FW Series]].

They included features like a bigger 15.4“ screen, better dedicated GPUs and on higher-end models, Blu-Ray drives. Even though most models had a 1080p Full HD sticker (this was really to advertise the 1080p HDMI port), their displays only were 1280x800, and they were criticized for being too low resolution. To truly enjoy the FZs movie-playing capabilities, one was able to use the HDMI port to connect the device to an external monitor, for the ultimate Blu-Ray experience. The FZ was only available in silver and black, although there were silver and white models released only in Japan. [[File:Vaio VGN-FZ 2.jpg|alt=Another VGN-FZ|thumb|VGN-FZ]]The FZ Series also featured a wide range of ports, including three USB 2.0, FireWire, ExpressCard, Memory Stick and an SD Card slot. The FZs biggest drawbacks where it’s short battery life, lasting only 1 hour and 38 minutes while watching DVDs. The other big issue was the NVIDIA 8000 series video cards, which are 100% guaranteed to fail (see more in Problems section).

Today you can easily find many FZs with broken 8400 or 8600 GPUs, which is something that is very hard if not impossible to fix for unexperienced users. Alternatively an iGPU model was offered, which used Intel's GMA X3100 iGPU. These models are rarer nowadays since they don't suffer from GPU failure and a lot of these were parted out to fix broken NVIDIA models.

==Specs==
'''Processor:''' Intel Core 2 Duo T7100, T7250, T7500, T7700, T8100, T8300, T9300, T9500 (not soldered)

'''Graphics:''' NVIDIA GeForce 8400M GT or 8600M GS, '''or''' Intel GMA X3100

'''Display:''' 15,4“ 1280x800 CCFL single/dual-lamp

'''Memory:''' DDR2 (2 slots, not soldered) (maximum 8GB)

'''Storage:''' 2.5" SATA

'''Weight:''' 2.6 to 2.8 kg

==Problems ==
The FZ series all have a very unfourtunate problem. Most models contain an NVIDIA 8 series GPU. The NVIDIA 8 series of GPUs are known for their 100% failure rate because of a manufacturing problem from NVIDIA, and the FZ is not an exception to that. All NVIDIA 8 series chips on every single FZs with dedicated GPUs are affected by this problem. You do not have a graphics switch on the FZ, so you always run on the dedicated GPU. The GMA X3100 FZs are immune to this issue, so you could do a motherboard swap.

'''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 Linux (distros with proper GPU drivers)

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 chip) 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 G84-602-A2).

==Daily Usage Today ==
Thanks to its powerful hardware for the time, it is still pretty useful for current day usage. Web browsing and text editing is easily doable on these devices. Older games will also run fine on dedicated GPU models (when they work), though modern games will struggle or outright not work. iGPU models will struggle to run old games, but it's better to have a working laptop that is less powerful, than a broken device.

==Resources==

[http://www.vaio.sony.co.jp/Products/FZ2/ Sony JP VAIO VGN-FZ Series Presentation Page]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/vgn-fz/vgn-fz_startupguide.pdf Sony VAIO VGN-FZ Series Startup Guide]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/vgn-fz/vgn-fz_usermanual.pdf Sony VAIO VGN-FZ Series User Manual]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/vgn-fz/vgn-fz_operationguide.pdf Sony VAIO VGN-FZ Series Operation Guide]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/vgn-fz/vgn-fz_warranty.pdf Sony VAIO VGN-FZ Series Warranty Summary]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/vgn-fz/vgn-fz_accessoriesguide.pdf Sony VAIO VGN-FZ Series Accessories Guide]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/vgn-fz/vgn-fz_safety.pdf Sony VAIO VGN-FZ Series Safety Information]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/vgn-fz/vgn-fz_cpsc.pdf Sony VAIO VGN-FZ Series CPSC Tips on Notebook Computer Use]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/vgn-fz/vgn-fz_instantmode.pdf Sony VAIO VGN-FZ Series Instant Mode Guide]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/vgn-fz/vgn-fz_hddguide.pdf Sony VAIO VGN-FZ Series HDD Replacement Guide]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/vgn-fz/vgn-fz_schematics.pdf Sony VAIO VGN-FZ Series Schematics (MBX-165 Foxconn MS90 REV 1.0)]

[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/vgn-fz/vgn-fz150e_specs.pdf Sony VAIO VGN-FZ150E Specifications Sheet]

==Downloads==

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

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

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

[https://archive.org/details/vaio-vgn-fz-410e-vista-oem-with-recovery-00-00 Sony VAIO VGN-FZ410E Hard Drive Image]

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.notebookcheck.com/Sony-Vaio-VGN-FZ-Serie.5403.0.html NotebookCheck], [https://sony.com Sony] and [[wikipedia:Sony_Vaio_FZ_series|Wikipedia]]

GPU reflow guide

2025-04-05T18:50:17Z

StarX: /* Affected models */

[[File:Bga diagram.png|thumb|Diagram of a BGA chip, the underfill shown is the faulty part of the NVIDIA GPU, which breaks the connection of the solder bumps to the substrate.]]
All VAIOs equipped with a NVIDIA 8000 series GPU suffer from a very unfortunate issue, called Bumpgate. This is caused by the tiny bumps connecting the GPU die to the substrate breaking due to a faulty underfill material used by NVIDIA during that time. This is also the same issue that affects every other laptop equipped with these chips, as well as the fat PS3 consoles. Some ATI/AMD GPU/chipset equipped VAIOs (such as the VPCEE) also suffer from GPU failures, although these are less common.

There are 2 ways to fix this issue; the most ideal and longest lasting repair being a chip replacement, as the chip is the problem. However, if you do not get a fixed revision of the chip, there is a possibility of the failure occurring again, and you might not want to spend the money or have the expertise to remove and replace the GPU.

However, an alternate fix is to reflow/reball the chip (this guide will only cover the reflow process). Reflowing is when the chip is heated up to "reflow" or remelt the solder balls, ensuring a solid connection with the motherboard. Consequently, this heating up also shifts the bumps on the die back into position, allowing the GPU to work again. "Reballing" will do the same thing, although instead of heating up the solder balls, you are removing the chip from the motherboard, cleaning it and applying new solder balls to it, then reinstalling the chip back on. This fix is only temporary, and you shouldn't expect the laptop to last more than 1 or 2 months before requiring another reflow and eventually a chip replacement.

== Affected models ==
VGN-AR equipped with 8400M/8600M GT

VGN-FZ equipped with NVIDIA GPU

VGN-NR equipped with NVIDIA GPU

VGN-SZ equipped with 8400M GS

VGX-TP

VPCEE/VPCEF (AMD RS880M chipset failure)

== Symptoms of GPU failure ==
Your VAIO may experience the following symptoms that indicate a failing GPU:

* Artifacts on the screen
* Power but no display
* 1 long 2 short beep code - GPU error
* Crashing when loading in to Windows (when the GPU drivers are loaded, may work in safe mode)
* Unable to install GPU drivers

== Items needed ==

=== Compulsory items ===

* Laptop that is being worked on
* Hot air rework station, you could use a heat gun but a rework station will allow for precise temperature control. Chinese ones such as the 858D can be picked up for about £20-30 on AliExpress and are adequate for the job.
* Soldering flux (nothing particular), I used fake Amtech flux for the reflow procedure which is very cheap on online platforms such as eBay. You preferably want a syringe as it makes putting the flux on a lot easier compared to without.

=== Optional items that are helpful ===

* Kapton tape, this is to protect other components from being desoldered.
* Aluminum foil, this helps to focus the heat only on the GPU
* PCB preheater, this preheats the board to a lower temperature which puts less stress on it when reflowing.

== Procedure ==
(Images are coming soon)

# Disassemble your device so that you only have the main board left. This varies depending on the machine.
# Clean off all thermal paste on the GPU using isopropyl alcohol and a small brush to get the paste around the capacitors, also clean around the GPU as well
# Remove all tape/insulating material located around or near the GPU. It can be left on, however when the GPU is reflowed the material may melt or curl up.
# (if you have it) Cut out a square the size of the GPU on the aluminum foil, or apply kapton tape around the GPU to protect the other components.
# Apply flux around the edges of the chip
# Set the corners of the motherboard on top of something, so that there is air on the top and bottom of the board
# Turn on your heat gun and set it to 400C
# Apply heat to the GPU for about 2-3 minutes, making sure to move the heat gun around the GPU to avoid putting too much heat in 1 location.
# Once you have done that, wait for the motherboard to cool down, then reassemble and test.
# If the laptop works, you are done! Make sure to follow the tips below to prolong the life of your laptop. If not, try reheating for a couple more minutes, otherwise if it still doesn't work, your chip is fried and will require a replacement.

== Tips to prolong the lifespan of your reflowed GPU ==

* Make sure to apply a good quality thermal paste to the laptop, PTM7950 is a very good option as it completely eliminates pump-out on laptops. It is also a cheap option if you order from sites such as AliExpress. You want a thermal paste that is very viscous to prevent pump out, such as Gelid GC-Extreme.
* Slightly bend the screw points on the heatsink up slightly, this puts more pressure on the chips enabling better contact.
* Clean the cooling system of your laptop regularly, at least once a year so that it stays running cool.
* If there is no copper touching the GPU, consider getting a copper shim, this will conduct heat much better than the non-copper heatsink.

== Resources ==
[https://www.badcaps.net/forum/troubleshooting-hardware-devices-and-electronics-theory/troubleshooting-laptops-tablets-and-mobile-devices/83833-nvidia-bumpgate|More information on the NVIDIA bumpgate issue, as well as specific GPU models affected]

GPU reflow guide

2025-04-05T18:49:52Z

StarX:

[[File:Bga diagram.png|thumb|Diagram of a BGA chip, the underfill shown is the faulty part of the NVIDIA GPU, which breaks the connection of the solder bumps to the substrate.]]
All VAIOs equipped with a NVIDIA 8000 series GPU suffer from a very unfortunate issue, called Bumpgate. This is caused by the tiny bumps connecting the GPU die to the substrate breaking due to a faulty underfill material used by NVIDIA during that time. This is also the same issue that affects every other laptop equipped with these chips, as well as the fat PS3 consoles. Some ATI/AMD GPU/chipset equipped VAIOs (such as the VPCEE) also suffer from GPU failures, although these are less common.

There are 2 ways to fix this issue; the most ideal and longest lasting repair being a chip replacement, as the chip is the problem. However, if you do not get a fixed revision of the chip, there is a possibility of the failure occurring again, and you might not want to spend the money or have the expertise to remove and replace the GPU.

However, an alternate fix is to reflow/reball the chip (this guide will only cover the reflow process). Reflowing is when the chip is heated up to "reflow" or remelt the solder balls, ensuring a solid connection with the motherboard. Consequently, this heating up also shifts the bumps on the die back into position, allowing the GPU to work again. "Reballing" will do the same thing, although instead of heating up the solder balls, you are removing the chip from the motherboard, cleaning it and applying new solder balls to it, then reinstalling the chip back on. This fix is only temporary, and you shouldn't expect the laptop to last more than 1 or 2 months before requiring another reflow and eventually a chip replacement.

== Affected models ==
VGN-AR equipped with 8400M/8600M GT
VGN-FZ equipped with NVIDIA GPU
VGN-NR equipped with NVIDIA GPU
VGN-SZ equipped with 8400M GS
VGX-TP
VPCEE/VPCEF (AMD RS880M chipset failure)

== Symptoms of GPU failure ==
Your VAIO may experience the following symptoms that indicate a failing GPU:

* Artifacts on the screen
* Power but no display
* 1 long 2 short beep code - GPU error
* Crashing when loading in to Windows (when the GPU drivers are loaded, may work in safe mode)
* Unable to install GPU drivers

== Items needed ==

=== Compulsory items ===

* Laptop that is being worked on
* Hot air rework station, you could use a heat gun but a rework station will allow for precise temperature control. Chinese ones such as the 858D can be picked up for about £20-30 on AliExpress and are adequate for the job.
* Soldering flux (nothing particular), I used fake Amtech flux for the reflow procedure which is very cheap on online platforms such as eBay. You preferably want a syringe as it makes putting the flux on a lot easier compared to without.

=== Optional items that are helpful ===

* Kapton tape, this is to protect other components from being desoldered.
* Aluminum foil, this helps to focus the heat only on the GPU
* PCB preheater, this preheats the board to a lower temperature which puts less stress on it when reflowing.

== Procedure ==
(Images are coming soon)

# Disassemble your device so that you only have the main board left. This varies depending on the machine.
# Clean off all thermal paste on the GPU using isopropyl alcohol and a small brush to get the paste around the capacitors, also clean around the GPU as well
# Remove all tape/insulating material located around or near the GPU. It can be left on, however when the GPU is reflowed the material may melt or curl up.
# (if you have it) Cut out a square the size of the GPU on the aluminum foil, or apply kapton tape around the GPU to protect the other components.
# Apply flux around the edges of the chip
# Set the corners of the motherboard on top of something, so that there is air on the top and bottom of the board
# Turn on your heat gun and set it to 400C
# Apply heat to the GPU for about 2-3 minutes, making sure to move the heat gun around the GPU to avoid putting too much heat in 1 location.
# Once you have done that, wait for the motherboard to cool down, then reassemble and test.
# If the laptop works, you are done! Make sure to follow the tips below to prolong the life of your laptop. If not, try reheating for a couple more minutes, otherwise if it still doesn't work, your chip is fried and will require a replacement.

== Tips to prolong the lifespan of your reflowed GPU ==

* Make sure to apply a good quality thermal paste to the laptop, PTM7950 is a very good option as it completely eliminates pump-out on laptops. It is also a cheap option if you order from sites such as AliExpress. You want a thermal paste that is very viscous to prevent pump out, such as Gelid GC-Extreme.
* Slightly bend the screw points on the heatsink up slightly, this puts more pressure on the chips enabling better contact.
* Clean the cooling system of your laptop regularly, at least once a year so that it stays running cool.
* If there is no copper touching the GPU, consider getting a copper shim, this will conduct heat much better than the non-copper heatsink.

== Resources ==
[https://www.badcaps.net/forum/troubleshooting-hardware-devices-and-electronics-theory/troubleshooting-laptops-tablets-and-mobile-devices/83833-nvidia-bumpgate|More information on the NVIDIA bumpgate issue, as well as specific GPU models affected]

Recovery Discs

2025-03-29T13:32:24Z

StarX: /* SV */

'''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 see the Library's [[VAIO Library:General disclaimer|general disclaimer]].

'''<big>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'''

== 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/vaio-pcg-v505ac-winxp-oem PCG-V505AC (HDD Image)]

[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/vaio-pcg-frv37-winxp-oem-with-recovery PCG-FR (PCG-FRV37) (HDD Image)]

[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/vaio-n505a-windows98-oem-japan PCG-N505A (HDD Image)]

[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/vaio-vgn-cr140f-vista-spanish-recovery2of3 VGN-CR (VGN-CR140F) (Spanish)]

[https://archive.org/details/vaio-vgn-cr140f-vista-oem-spanish-with-recovery VGN-CR (VGN-CR140F) (Spanish) HDD Image]

[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/vaio-vgn-fz-410e-vista-oem-with-recovery-00-00 VGN-FZ (VGN-FZ410E) HDD Image]

[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]

[https://archive.org/details/vaio-svf15n17cxb-win8-disk4of5 SVF15N17CXB Flip 15A (Windows 8)]

[https://archive.org/details/vaio-svf-15n-17cxb-win-8-oem-with-recovery-00-00 SVF15N17CXB Flip 15A (Windows 8 HDD Image)]

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

Fit 14

2025-03-29T13:14:42Z

StarX: /* Overview */

{{Infobox Specs
| name = Fit 14E
| image = SVF14E_white.jpeg
| subtitle = Fit 14E in White
| series = SVF14
| rel = 2013
| cpu = Ivy Bridge/Haswell dual-core i3, i5, i7 or Pentium
| gpu = Intel HD Graphics 4000/4400 and optional NVIDIA GT 740M
| chipset = Intel HM77/HM87
| memory = DDR3 (DDR3L on Haswell models), max 16GB
| display = 14" 1366x768 LED display
| storage = 2.5" HDD slot, DVD/Blu-Ray Drive
| audio = Stereo speakers (S-FORCE Front Surround 3D, "Clear Phase", "xLOUD", ClearAudio+mode, "VPT")
| os = Windows 8 Home
| weight = 2.5 kg
| size = 380.3 x 25.1 x 260.8 mm
| msrp = around $300 to $500 US
}}

== Overview ==
The Sony VAIO Fit 14E (SVF14) is a low-mid range laptop released by Sony in 2013, along with the SVF15E. These were intended to be budget notebooks that were also thin and light, featuring low voltage soldered Intel CPUs and optional switchable NVIDIA graphics unlike the SVE line of laptops. The SVF14 consists of an all plastic build, which is fairly low quality. The main difference between the SVF14 and the SVF15 are the 14" screen as well as the lack of a subwoofer that is installed in the SVF15.

High end options for the SVF14 include a backlit keyboard, Blu-Ray drive, 1920x1080 screen and a switchable NVIDIA GeForce GT 740M with 2GB GDDR3 VRAM. Most SVF14s also featured a touchscreen as did other Windows 8 VAIOs. All SVF14s also came with a built in NFC antenna on the palm-rest, which could be used to transfer data or connect to devices such as Sony NFC headphones.

The SVF14 would then get a refresh, featuring the all-new Intel 4th gen CPUs, however other than that nothing else was changed. After Sony's computer division was sold to JIP (VAIO Corporation) in 2014, the SVF14 design would be discontinued and only the SVF15 design would be produced as the VJF15.

== Daily Usage Today ==
The SVF14 is still usable, with good performance if upgraded to an SSD and at least 8GB RAM, although low end Pentium models may suffer from some slowdowns. The NVIDIA GeForce GT 740M was a low end GPU at the time, so will only be able to handle light gaming such as Minecraft. The SVF14 provides decent performance on Windows 11 (assuming you don't have a Pentium) and is fully compatible, with all drivers working. The GPU switching is handled by NVIDIA Optimus, so standard NVIDIA drivers will work fine on the laptop. It is very important to check the hinges on the VAIO Fit 14E and 15E line, as they are very well known for breaking due to the low quality all plastic build. Do not buy any SVF14 if you see cracks near the hinge area on the palm-rest or the lid, this is a sign of the hinge failing.

== Resources ==

== Credits ==

Fit 14

2025-03-29T13:11:57Z

StarX: Created page with "{{Infobox Specs | name = Fit 14E | image = SVF14E_white.jpeg | subtitle = Fit 14E in White | series = SVF14 | rel = 2013 | cpu = Ivy Bridge/Haswell dual-core i3, i5, i7 or Pentium | gpu = Intel HD Graphics 4000/4400 and optional NVIDIA GT 740M | chipset = Intel HM77/HM87 | memory = DDR3 (DDR3L on Haswell models), max 16GB | display = 14" 1366x768 LED display | storage = 2.5" HDD slot, DVD/Blu-Ray Drive | audio = Stereo speakers (S-FORCE Front Surround 3D, "Clear Phase",..."

{{Infobox Specs
| name = Fit 14E
| image = SVF14E_white.jpeg
| subtitle = Fit 14E in White
| series = SVF14
| rel = 2013
| cpu = Ivy Bridge/Haswell dual-core i3, i5, i7 or Pentium
| gpu = Intel HD Graphics 4000/4400 and optional NVIDIA GT 740M
| chipset = Intel HM77/HM87
| memory = DDR3 (DDR3L on Haswell models), max 16GB
| display = 14" 1366x768 LED display
| storage = 2.5" HDD slot, DVD/Blu-Ray Drive
| audio = Stereo speakers (S-FORCE Front Surround 3D, "Clear Phase", "xLOUD", ClearAudio+mode, "VPT")
| os = Windows 8 Home
| weight = 2.5 kg
| size = 380.3 x 25.1 x 260.8 mm
| msrp = around $300 to $500 US
}}

== Overview ==
The Sony VAIO Fit 14E (SVF14) is a low-mid range laptop released by Sony in 2013, along with the SVF14E. These were intended to be budget notebooks that were also thin and light, featuring low voltage soldered Intel CPUs and optional switchable NVIDIA graphics unlike the SVE line of laptops. The SVF14 consists of an all plastic build, which is fairly low quality. The main difference between the SVF14 and the SVF15 are the 14" screen as well as the lack of a subwoofer that is installed in the SVF15

High end options for the SVF15 include a backlit keyboard, Blu-Ray drive, 1920x1080 screen and a switchable NVIDIA GeForce GT 740M with 2GB GDDR3 VRAM. Most SVF15s also featured a touchscreen as did other Windows 8 VAIOs. All SVF15s also came with a built in NFC antenna on the palm-rest, which could be used to transfer data or connect to devices such as Sony NFC headphones.

The SVF15 would then get a refresh, featuring the all-new Intel 4th gen CPUs, however other than that nothing else was changed. After Sony's computer division was sold to JIP (VAIO Corporation) in 2014, the SVF14 design would be discontinued and only the SVF15 design would be produced.

== Daily Usage Today ==
The SVF14 is still usable, with good performance if upgraded to an SSD and at least 8GB RAM, although low end Pentium models may suffer from some slowdowns. The NVIDIA GeForce GT 740M was a low end GPU at the time, so will only be able to handle light gaming such as Minecraft. The SVF14 provides decent performance on Windows 11 (assuming you don't have a Pentium) and is fully compatible, with all drivers working. The GPU switching is handled by NVIDIA Optimus, so standard NVIDIA drivers will work fine on the laptop. It is very important to check the hinges on the VAIO Fit 14E and 15E line, as they are very well known for breaking due to the low quality all plastic build. Do not buy any SVF14 if you see cracks near the hinge area on the palm-rest or the lid, this is a sign of the hinge failing.

== Resources ==

== Credits ==

Fit (SVF) Series

2025-03-29T13:06:43Z

StarX: /* The Fit (SVF) Series contains 4 subseries: */

===The Fit (SVF) Series contains 4 subseries:===
<big>[[Fit 11|Fit/Flip 11]]</big>

<big>Fit/Flip 13</big>

<big>Fit 14</big>

<big>[[Fit 14E]]</big>

<big>[[Flip 14|Fit/Flip 14]]<big>

<big>Fit 15</big>

<big>[[Fit 15E]]</big>

<big>[[Fit/Flip 15A]]</big>

Fit 15

2025-03-28T21:17:10Z

StarX:

{{Infobox Specs
| name = Fit 15E
| image = SVF15E_white.jpeg
| subtitle = Fit 15E in White
| series = SVF15
| rel = 2013
| cpu = Ivy Bridge/Haswell dual-core i3, i5, i7 or Pentium
| gpu = Intel HD Graphics 4000/4400 and optional NVIDIA GT 740M
| chipset = Intel HM77/HM87
| memory = DDR3 (DDR3L on Haswell models), max 16GB
| display = 15.6" 1366x768 or 1920x1080 LED display
| storage = 2.5" HDD slot, DVD/Blu-Ray Drive
| audio = Stereo speakers + subwoofer (S-FORCE Front Surround 3D, "Clear Phase", "xLOUD", ClearAudio+mode, "VPT")
| os = Windows 8 Home
| weight = 2.5 kg
| size = 380.3 x 25.1 x 260.8 mm
| msrp = around $300 to $500 US
}}

== Overview ==
The Sony VAIO Fit 15E (SVF15) is a low-mid range laptop released by Sony in 2013, along with the SVF14E. These were intended to be budget notebooks that were also thin and light, featuring low voltage soldered Intel CPUs and optional switchable NVIDIA graphics unlike the SVE line of laptops. The SVF15 consists of an all plastic build, which is fairly low quality.

Surprisingly for a budget laptop, it features a stereo speaker + subwoofer setup, which sounds good. High end options for the SVF15 include a backlit keyboard, Blu-Ray drive, 1920x1080 screen and a switchable NVIDIA GeForce GT 740M with 2GB GDDR3 VRAM. Most SVF15s also featured a touchscreen as did other Windows 8 VAIOs. All SVF15s also came with a built in NFC antenna on the palm-rest, which could be used to transfer data or connect to devices such as Sony NFC headphones.

The SVF15 would then get a refresh, featuring the all-new Intel 4th gen CPUs, however other than that nothing else was changed. After Sony's computer division was sold to JIP (VAIO Corporation) in 2014, the design would further be used to make other newer models, known as the VJF15. These would have CPUs ranging from low end Celerons to high power 6th gen HQ series CPUs.

== Daily Usage Today ==
The SVF15 is still usable, with good performance if upgraded to an SSD and at least 8GB RAM, although low end Pentium models may suffer from some slowdowns. The NVIDIA GeForce GT 740M was a low end GPU at the time, so will only be able to handle light gaming such as Minecraft. It is very important to check the hinges on the VAIO Fit 14E and 15E line, as they are very well known for breaking due to the low quality all plastic build. Do not buy any SVF15 if you see cracks near the hinge area on the palm-rest or the lid, this is a sign of the hinge failing.

== Resources ==

== Credits ==

File:SVF15E white.jpeg

2025-03-28T21:16:23Z

StarX: svf15 white

== Summary ==
svf15 white

Fit 15

2025-03-28T21:16:09Z

StarX:

{{Infobox Specs
| name = Fit 15E
| image = SVF15E_white.jpeg
| subtitle = VAIO Fit 15E
| series = SVF15
| rel = 2013
| cpu = Ivy Bridge/Haswell dual-core i3, i5, i7 or Pentium
| gpu = Intel HD Graphics 4000/4400 and optional NVIDIA GT 740M
| chipset = Intel HM77/HM87
| memory = DDR3 (DDR3L on Haswell models), max 16GB
| display = 15.6" 1366x768 or 1920x1080 LED display
| storage = 2.5" HDD slot, DVD/Blu-Ray Drive
| audio = Stereo speakers + subwoofer (S-FORCE Front Surround 3D, "Clear Phase", "xLOUD", ClearAudio+mode, "VPT")
| os = Windows 8 Home
| weight = 2.5 kg
| size = 380.3 x 25.1 x 260.8 mm
| msrp = around $300 to $500 US
}}

== Overview ==
The Sony VAIO Fit 15E (SVF15) is a low-mid range laptop released by Sony in 2013, along with the SVF14E. These were intended to be budget notebooks that were also thin and light, featuring low voltage soldered Intel CPUs and optional switchable NVIDIA graphics unlike the SVE line of laptops. The SVF15 consists of an all plastic build, which is fairly low quality.

Surprisingly for a budget laptop, it features a stereo speaker + subwoofer setup, which sounds good. High end options for the SVF15 include a backlit keyboard, Blu-Ray drive, 1920x1080 screen and a switchable NVIDIA GeForce GT 740M with 2GB GDDR3 VRAM. Most SVF15s also featured a touchscreen as did other Windows 8 VAIOs. All SVF15s also came with a built in NFC antenna on the palm-rest, which could be used to transfer data or connect to devices such as Sony NFC headphones.

The SVF15 would then get a refresh, featuring the all-new Intel 4th gen CPUs, however other than that nothing else was changed. After Sony's computer division was sold to JIP (VAIO Corporation) in 2014, the design would further be used to make other newer models, known as the VJF15. These would have CPUs ranging from low end Celerons to high power 6th gen HQ series CPUs.

== Daily Usage Today ==
The SVF15 is still usable, with good performance if upgraded to an SSD and at least 8GB RAM, although low end Pentium models may suffer from some slowdowns. The NVIDIA GeForce GT 740M was a low end GPU at the time, so will only be able to handle light gaming such as Minecraft. It is very important to check the hinges on the VAIO Fit 14E and 15E line, as they are very well known for breaking due to the low quality all plastic build. Do not buy any SVF15 if you see cracks near the hinge area on the palm-rest or the lid, this is a sign of the hinge failing.

== Resources ==

== Credits ==

Fit 15

2025-03-28T21:13:06Z

StarX: Created page with "{{Infobox Specs | name = Fit 15E | image = VGN-AW 1.jpg | subtitle = VAIO Fit 15E | series = SVF15 | rel = 2013 | cpu = Ivy Bridge/Haswell dual-core i3, i5, i7 or Pentium | gpu = Intel HD Graphics 4000/4400 and optional NVIDIA GT 740M | chipset = Intel HM77/HM87 | memory = DDR3 (DDR3L on Haswell models), max 16GB | display = 15.6" 1366x768 or 1920x1080 LED display | storage = 2.5" HDD slot, DVD/Blu-Ray Drive | audio = Stereo speakers + subwoofer (S-FORCE Front Surround 3..."

{{Infobox Specs
| name = Fit 15E
| image = VGN-AW 1.jpg
| subtitle = VAIO Fit 15E
| series = SVF15
| rel = 2013
| cpu = Ivy Bridge/Haswell dual-core i3, i5, i7 or Pentium
| gpu = Intel HD Graphics 4000/4400 and optional NVIDIA GT 740M
| chipset = Intel HM77/HM87
| memory = DDR3 (DDR3L on Haswell models), max 16GB
| display = 15.6" 1366x768 or 1920x1080 LED display
| storage = 2.5" HDD slot, DVD/Blu-Ray Drive
| audio = Stereo speakers + subwoofer (S-FORCE Front Surround 3D, "Clear Phase", "xLOUD", ClearAudio+mode, "VPT")
| os = Windows 8 Home
| weight = 2.5 kg
| size = 380.3 x 25.1 x 260.8 mm
| msrp = around $300 to $500 US
}}

== Overview ==
The Sony VAIO Fit 15E (SVF15) is a low-mid range laptop released by Sony in 2013, along with the SVF14E. These were intended to be budget notebooks that were also thin and light, featuring low voltage soldered Intel CPUs and optional switchable NVIDIA graphics unlike the SVE line of laptops. The SVF15 consists of an all plastic build, which is fairly low quality.

Surprisingly for a budget laptop, it features a stereo speaker + subwoofer setup, which sounds good. High end options for the SVF15 include a backlit keyboard, Blu-Ray drive, 1920x1080 screen and a switchable NVIDIA GeForce GT 740M with 2GB GDDR3 VRAM. Most SVF15s also featured a touchscreen as did other Windows 8 VAIOs. All SVF15s also came with a built in NFC antenna on the palm-rest, which could be used to transfer data or connect to devices such as Sony NFC headphones.

The SVF15 would then get a refresh, featuring the all-new Intel 4th gen CPUs, however other than that nothing else was changed. After Sony's computer division was sold to JIP (VAIO Corporation) in 2014, the design would further be used to make other newer models, known as the VJF15. These would have CPUs ranging from low end Celerons to high power 6th gen HQ series CPUs.

== Daily Usage Today ==
The SVF15 is still usable, with good performance if upgraded to an SSD and at least 8GB RAM, although low end Pentium models may suffer from some slowdowns. The NVIDIA GeForce GT 740M was a low end GPU at the time, so will only be able to handle light gaming such as Minecraft. It is very important to check the hinges on the VAIO Fit 14E and 15E line, as they are very well known for breaking due to the low quality all plastic build. Do not buy any SVF15 if you see cracks near the hinge area on the palm-rest or the lid, this is a sign of the hinge failing.

== Resources ==

== Credits ==

Fit (SVF) Series

2025-03-28T20:50:41Z

StarX: /* The Fit (SVF) Series contains 4 subseries: */

===The Fit (SVF) Series contains 4 subseries:===
<big>[[Fit 11|Fit/Flip 11]]</big>

<big>Fit/Flip 13</big>

<big>Fit 14</big>

<big>Fit 14E</big>

<big>[[Flip 14|Fit/Flip 14]]<big>

<big>Fit 15</big>

<big>[[Fit 15E]]</big>

<big>[[Fit/Flip 15A]]</big>