VGN-AR - Revision history

StarX at 14:56, 4 September 2025

2025-09-04T14:56:21Z

StarX: /* Detailed Specs */

2025-08-29T14:26:24Z

Detailed Specs

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:26, 29 August 2025
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	'''RAM:''' 2x SO-DIMM DDR2 (upgradable to 4GB on early models or 8GB on Penryn refresh)		'''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)		'''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		'''OS:''' Windows XP Media Center Edition / Windows Vista Home Premium / Business / Ultimate

Resident007: /* Resources */

2025-07-06T18:27:47Z

Resources

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:27, 6 July 2025
Line 60:		Line 60:
	[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_troubleshootingguide.PDF Sony VAIO VGN-AR Troubleshooting Guide]

	[https://download.vaiolibrary.com/manuals/vgn-ar/vgn-ar_blueraydiskguide.pdf Sony VAIO VGN-AR ~~BlueRay~~ Disc 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_opticalinstructions.pdf Sony VAIO VGN-AR Optical Disk Drive Instructions]

StarX: /* Overview */

2025-01-06T01:49:50Z

Overview

← Older revision		Revision as of 03:49, 6 January 2025
Line 3:		Line 3:
	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.		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" 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).		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.		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 ~~border~~ around the lower half, and have a 1920x1200 dual-lamp LCD and are typically equipped better, 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 ~~border~~ around the lower half. These are far more common than the Premium models.		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.		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 out, Modem, Ethernet and 3x 2.0 USB 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.		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.		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.

StarX: /* Detailed Specs */

2024-11-09T21:42:49Z

Detailed Specs

StarX: /* Problems */

2024-02-05T20:03:21Z

Problems

← Older revision		Revision as of 22:03, 5 February 2024
Line 44:		Line 44:
	*Unable to boot into the operating system		*Unable to boot into the operating system

	There is no real permanent solution to this problem. One temporary solution would be a reflow ~~(see our upcoming~~ reflow ~~guide)~~, 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).		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 ==		==Daily Usage Today ==

StarX: /* Overview */

2023-12-16T00:13:22Z

Overview

← Older revision		Revision as of 02:13, 16 December 2023
Line 3:		Line 3:
	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.		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" 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 with was an optional ATI TV Wonder Digital Cable Tuner, making for an excellent multimedia device (only on high-end models).		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" 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 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).

	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.		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 border around the lower half, and have a 1920x1200 LCD and are typically equipped better, 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 border around the lower half. These are far more common than the Premium models.

	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.		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.
Line 20:		Line 22:
	'''Graphics:''' NVIDIA GeForce 8400M GT, 8600M GT, Go 7600 (earlier models)		'''Graphics:''' NVIDIA GeForce 8400M GT, 8600M GT, Go 7600 (earlier models)

	'''Display:''' 17.1" CCFL 16:10 1440 x 900 WXGA+ / 1920 x 1200 WUXGA		'''Display:''' 17.1" CCFL 16:10 1440 x 900 WXGA+ or 1920 x 1200 WUXGA on Premium models

	'''RAM:''' 2x SO-DIMM DDR2 (upgradable to 4GB or 8GB on Penryn refresh)		'''RAM:''' 2x SO-DIMM DDR2 (upgradable to 4GB or 8GB on Penryn refresh)
Line 33:		Line 35:

	==Problems==		==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 VGA-AR is not an exception to that. All NVIDIA 8 series chips on every single VGN-AR with those GPUs are affected by this problem. Models equipped with the NVIDIA GeForce 7600 Go are not affected.		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 VGA-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:'''		'''Symptoms of this problem are:'''
Line 42:		Line 44:
	*Unable to boot into the operating system		*Unable to boot into the operating system

	There is no real permanent solution to this problem. One temporary solution would be a reflow (see our upcoming reflow guide), 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-~~602~~-A2).		There is no real permanent solution to this problem. One temporary solution would be a reflow (see our upcoming reflow guide), 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 ==		==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. Though modern 3D games will either not run at all, or run very badly.		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==		==Resources==

StarX: /* Overview */

2023-12-12T22:50:18Z

Overview

← Older revision		Revision as of 00:50, 13 December 2023
Line 3:		Line 3:
	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.		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 offered with ~~features like~~ a Blu-Ray RW optical drive, 17" 16:10 ~~screens~~, which could be had in either 1440x900 for lower-end models or 1920x1200 for the higher-end offerings. Something that Sony complemented with was an optional ATI TV Wonder Digital Cable Tuner, making for an excellent multimedia device (only on high-end models).		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" 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 with was an optional ATI TV Wonder Digital Cable Tuner, making for an excellent multimedia device (only on high-end models).

	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. Sadly performance was hindered by only 2GB of RAM on most models, which could be upgraded to the maximum of 4GB. The refreshed VGN-AR with the Penryn line of CPUs can be identified by looking at the bezel, which will have a Sony logo instead of the glowing VAIO logo.		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.

	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.		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.
Line 20:		Line 20:
	'''Graphics:''' NVIDIA GeForce 8400M GT, 8600M GT, Go 7600 (earlier models)		'''Graphics:''' NVIDIA GeForce 8400M GT, 8600M GT, Go 7600 (earlier models)

	'''Display:''' 17.1" 16:10 1440 x 900 WXGA+ / 1920 x 1200 WUXGA		'''Display:''' 17.1" CCFL 16:10 1440 x 900 WXGA+ / 1920 x 1200 WUXGA

	'''RAM:''' 2x SO-DIMM DDR2 (upgradable to 4GB or 8GB on Penryn refresh)		'''RAM:''' 2x SO-DIMM DDR2 (upgradable to 4GB or 8GB on Penryn refresh)
Line 42:		Line 42:
	*Unable to boot into the operating system		*Unable to boot into the operating system

	There is no real permanent solution to this problem. One temporary solution would be a reflow (see our upcoming reflow guide), 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).		There is no real permanent solution to this problem. One temporary solution would be a reflow (see our upcoming reflow guide), 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 G84-602-A2).

	==Daily Usage Today ==		==Daily Usage Today ==

StarX: /* Detailed Specs */

2023-12-11T17:22:03Z

Detailed Specs

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:22, 11 December 2023
Line 3:		Line 3:
	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.		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 offered with features like a Blu-Ray RW optical drive, 17" 16:10 screens, which could be had in either 1440x900 for lower-end models or 1920x1200 for the higher-end offerings. Something that Sony complemented with an optional ATI TV Wonder Digital Cable Tuner, making for an excellent multimedia device (only on high-end models).		At launch the full-spec VGN-AR was offered with features like a Blu-Ray RW optical drive, 17" 16:10 screens, which could be had in either 1440x900 for lower-end models or 1920x1200 for the higher-end offerings. Something that Sony complemented with was an optional ATI TV Wonder Digital Cable Tuner, making for an excellent multimedia device (only on high-end models).

	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. Sadly performance was hindered by only 2GB of RAM on most models, which could be upgraded to the maximum of 4GB.		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. Sadly performance was hindered by only 2GB of RAM on most models, which could be upgraded to the maximum of 4GB. The refreshed VGN-AR with the Penryn line of CPUs can be identified by looking at the bezel, which will have a Sony logo instead of the glowing VAIO logo.

	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.		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.
Line 13:		Line 13:
	In addition to the choice between Windows XP Professional (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.		In addition to the choice between Windows XP Professional (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.		The VGN-AR was replaced by the [[VGN-AW]] and [[VGN-FW]] Series.

	==Detailed Specs==		==Detailed Specs==
	'''Processor:''' Intel Pentium M T2370 / Intel Core (2) Duo ~~T2500,~~ T2500, T5450, T7100, T7200, T7250, T7300, T7700, T8100, T8300, T9300		'''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 (earlier models)		'''Graphics:''' NVIDIA GeForce 8400M GT, 8600M GT, Go 7600 (earlier models)
Line 22:		Line 22:
	'''Display:''' 17.1" 16:10 1440 x 900 WXGA+ / 1920 x 1200 WUXGA		'''Display:''' 17.1" 16:10 1440 x 900 WXGA+ / 1920 x 1200 WUXGA

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

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

	'''OS:''' Windows XP Professional / Windows Vista Home Premium / Business / Ultimate		'''OS:''' Windows XP Professional / Windows Vista Home Premium / Business / Ultimate
Line 45:		Line 45:

	==Daily Usage Today ==		==Daily Usage Today ==
	Thanks to its high-end hardware of the time, most VGN-AR 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. Though modern 3D games will either not run at all, or run very badly.		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. Though modern 3D games will either not run at all, or run very badly.

	==Resources==		==Resources==

StarX: /* Overview */

2023-12-10T00:53:47Z

Overview

← Older revision		Revision as of 02:53, 10 December 2023
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	At launch the full-spec VGN-AR was offered with features like a Blu-Ray RW optical drive, 17" 16:10 screens, which could be had in either 1440x900 for lower-end models or 1920x1200 for the higher-end offerings. Something that Sony complemented with an optional ATI TV Wonder Digital Cable Tuner, making for an excellent multimedia device (only on high-end models).		At launch the full-spec VGN-AR was offered with features like a Blu-Ray RW optical drive, 17" 16:10 screens, which could be had in either 1440x900 for lower-end models or 1920x1200 for the higher-end offerings. Something that Sony complemented with an optional ATI TV Wonder Digital Cable Tuner, making for an excellent multimedia device (only on high-end models).

	With a range of Intel Core 2 Duos, Core Duos and a Pentium M 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 ~~therms~~ of performance, making image and video editing, as well as gaming a simple enough task. Sadly performance was hindered by only 2GB of RAM on most models, which could be upgraded to the maximum of 4GB.		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. Sadly performance was hindered by only 2GB of RAM on most models, which could be upgraded to the maximum of 4GB.

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

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

← Older revision		Revision as of 23:42, 9 November 2024
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	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.		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" 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 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).		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" 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).

	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.		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 border around the lower half, and have a 1920x1200 LCD and are typically equipped better, 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 border around the lower half. These are far more common than the Premium models.		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 border around the lower half, and have a 1920x1200 dual-lamp LCD and are typically equipped better, 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 border around the lower half. These are far more common than the Premium models.

	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.		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.
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	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 out, Modem, Ethernet and 3x 2.0 USB 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.		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 out, Modem, Ethernet and 3x 2.0 USB 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 ~~Professional~~ (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.		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.		The VGN-AR was replaced by the [[VGN-AW]] and [[VGN-FW]] Series.
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	'''Processor:''' Intel Pentium M T2370 / Intel Core (2) Duo T2500, T5450, T7100, T7200, T7250, T7300, T7700, T8100, T8300, T9300		'''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 (earlier models)		'''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+ or 1920 x 1200 WUXGA on Premium 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 or 8GB on Penryn refresh)		'''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)		'''Storage:''' 2.5" SATA HDD, optional 2nd hard drive configured in RAID (high-end models)

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

	'''Weight:''' 3,8kg - 4,1kg		'''Weight:''' 3,8kg - 4,1kg
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	==Problems==		==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 ~~VGA~~-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.		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:'''		'''Symptoms of this problem are:'''