Overview

EarthLink Network TotalAccess® (Windows Me only)

EarthLink Network, Inc.

An Internet Service Provider that supplies access, information, and assistance to its customers, introducing them to the Internet. Member benefits include e-mail, newsgroups, a personal start page, a free 6 MB web site, a member newsletter, and 24-hour technical support.

McAfee® VirusScan®

Network Associates, Inc.

Protect your computer from viruses. VirusScan can detect viruses from floppy disks, Internet downloads, e-mail attachments, intranets, shared files, CD-ROMs, and online services.

Media Bar™

Sony Electronics

Media Bar software is your all-in-one solution for audio/video playback. Media Bar software handles all common computer multimedia formats and controls selected Sony devices. In addition to audio/video library cataloging and playlist management, Media Bar software includes digital video quality control and effects features. Media Bar software seamlessly integrates a variety of new media formats with an easy-to-use software interface.

Microsoft® Internet Explorer

Microsoft Corporation

Internet Explorer delivers the web the way you want it. It is safe, easy to use, and you can personalize how you access the web. Outlook Express and other tools in Internet Explorer also help you have a great experience when you are on the web.

Microsoft® Word 2000

Microsoft Corporation

Microsoft Word 2000 makes it easy to create shared Web, e-mail, and print documents for use around the world. It embraces HTML as a first-class file format and extends Word’s ease-of-use to the Web and e-mail. Word 2000 also extends that ease-of-use to international users, making it simple to create multilingual documents.

MovieShaker™

Sony Electronics

Sony’s original MovieShaker software creates personal movies that have transitions, background music and text. Just import your video clips and “shake” with a click of the mouse. Your personal movies are easy to create and fun to share with family and friends. (See “MovieShaker™” below.)

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Sony PCG-FX290 manual EarthLink Network TotalAccess Windows Me only, 101

PCG-FX290 specifications

The Sony PCG-FX290 and PCG-FX290K are part of Sony's line of compact and portable laptops that were specifically designed for everyday computing needs in the early 2000s. These models were particularly popular among students and professionals who sought mobility without sacrificing essential performance attributes.

At the core of the PCG-FX290 and FX290K is an Intel Pentium 4 processor. This processor offered users a much-needed boost in performance, allowing for smooth multitasking and the ability to run various applications simultaneously. With a clock speed ranging typically from 1.5 to 2.0 GHz, users could handle basic tasks such as web browsing, word processing, and even light media consumption with relative ease.

One of the standout features of these models was their 14.1-inch LCD display, which provided a resolution of 1024x768 pixels. The screen offered vibrant colors and decent brightness, making it suitable for both productivity tasks and watching videos. The laptop's compact form factor was designed for portability, making it easy to carry to lectures or meetings.

In terms of memory, the PCG-FX290 typically came equipped with 256 MB RAM, which could be upgraded depending on user needs. This capacity allowed users to engage in standard tasks smoothly, although later applications may have expressed the need for upgrades. Storage options included a standard 40 GB hard drive, providing ample space for documents, photos, and various media files of that time.

Connectivity was well-catered for, with built-in Ethernet and modem ports facilitating easy internet access. The laptops also featured USB 2.0 ports, a PCMCIA slot for expansion, and VGA output, enabling users to connect to external displays. A CD-ROM drive was standard in the PCG-FX290 and offered users the capability to enjoy multimedia content as well as install software easily.

The design of the PCG-FX290 and FX290K also deserves mention. The laptops were known for their durability and robust build, with a stylish yet functional aesthetic. Weighing around 5 pounds, these models struck a balance between portability and usability without compromising on essential features.

In conclusion, the Sony PCG-FX290 and FX290K were notable for their blend of reliability and essential performance features. While technology has advanced significantly since their release, these laptops remain a memorable part of early 2000s computing history, providing a glimpse into the mobile computing landscape of that era.