Sony Walkman NWZ-B172/B173 Series Quick Start Guide

About the Manuals

This Quick Start Guide provides essential information. For comprehensive details, refer to the User Guide (HTML document) accessible via the WALKMAN Guide. See "How to Install the Bundled Software (User Guide included)" for more information.

Contents

• "WALKMAN" (1)
• Headphones (1)
• Clip (1)
• Quick Start Guide (this manual) (1)
• Software: Includes WALKMAN Guide and User Guide, etc.

Installation details are in "How to Install the Bundled Software (User Guide included)."

About Windows Operating System

Ensure your computer runs Windows 7 (Service Pack 1 or later), Windows XP (Service Pack 3 or later), or Windows Vista (Service Pack 2 or later) with Windows Media Player version 11 or 12 installed.

How to Install the Bundled Software (User Guide included)

1. Connect your Walkman to your computer.
2. On the computer, navigate: [start] -> [My Computer] or [Computer] -> [WALKMAN] -> [Storage Media].
3. Double-click [Setup.exe]. Follow the on-screen instructions. The WALKMAN Guide will be installed.
4. A shortcut for WALKMAN Guide will appear on your desktop. Double-click it to start.

Music transfer details are available in the User Guide within WALKMAN Guide.

[Hint] You can also launch WALKMAN Guide from the [Start] menu.

Installing the software creates a backup of [Setup.exe] on your C: drive for reinstallation on other computers. The backup path is typically C:\Program Files\Sony\WALKMAN Guide\NWZ-B170\Backup.

What can you do with the WALKMAN Guide?

• User Guide: Detailed instructions on using your Walkman and software.
• Troubleshooting information.
• Links for customer registration, support, and other useful resources.

Charging the Battery

The battery recharges when the Walkman is connected to a running computer.

Approximate charging time: 70 minutes for a full charge.

[Note] For first-time use or after long periods of inactivity, charge fully. The power illuminator blinks during charging. If the display remains blank for over 5 minutes, press the [RESET button] to reset the device.

[Note] Disconnect the Walkman before turning on, restarting, shutting down, or waking your computer from sleep/hibernate mode to prevent malfunctions.

[Note] To prevent battery deterioration, charge at least once every six months to a year.

Parts and Controls

Front

• [REC/STOP button]: Starts/stops recording. Can record FM programs (NWZ-B172F/B173F only).
• [VOL +/- button]: Adjusts volume.
• [ZAP/BASS button]: Switches between normal and ZAPPIN playback, or emphasizes bass.
• [power button]: Starts/pauses playback or recording.
• [Shuttle switch]: Navigates menus, fast-forwards/rewinds tracks.
• [(Headphone) jack]: Connects headphones.
• [Display]: Shows information.
• [Power illuminator]: LED indicator.
• [MIC (Microphone)]: For sound recording.
• [Strap holes]: For attaching a strap.
• [RESET button]: Use a small pin to press.
• [BACK/HOME button]: Returns to the previous screen or displays the Home menu.
• [HOLD switch]: Locks buttons to prevent accidental operation.
• [Clip holes]: For attaching the supplied clip.
• [USB cap]: Remove for USB connection.

Turning Your "WALKMAN" On and Off

• To turn on: Press the [power button].
• To turn off: Press and hold the [power button].

[Hint] The Walkman turns off automatically if playback is paused and no operation is performed for a certain period.

How to Use Your "WALKMAN"

The Home menu is the starting point for all applications.

• To display the Home menu: Press and hold the [BACK/HOME button].
• To select an item: Rotate the [shuttle switch] to highlight an item, then press the [power button] to confirm.
• To return to the previous screen: Press the [BACK/HOME button].

Home menu

Icons appear in the Home menu; the selected icon's color is inverted.

• [Voice]: Plays/deletes sound files recorded with the built-in microphone.
• [Music Library]: Plays transferred songs.
• [FM]: Plays FM radio or recorded FM programs. (NWZ-B172F/B173F only)
• [Settings]: Configures music, FM, voice recording, and device settings.

Importing and Transferring Music

Transfer songs using Windows Media Player 11 or 12.

1. Import songs from CDs into Windows Media Player 11 or 12 on your computer. Refer to the WMP Help for details.
2. Connect your Walkman to your computer by inserting the USB connector fully.
3. Transfer songs from Windows Media Player 11 or 12 to your Walkman. The display shows [DATA ACCESS] during transfer.

[Note] Do not disconnect the Walkman during file transfer to avoid file damage.

[Note] Copyright-protected content cannot be transferred.

[Hint] You can also drag and drop files in Windows Explorer.

To delete songs: Connect to your computer and delete audio files using Windows Media Player or Windows Explorer.

Troubleshooting

If your Walkman is not functioning correctly, try these steps:

1. Consult the "Troubleshooting" section in the User Guide for symptoms and corrective actions.
2. Connect your Walkman to your computer to charge the battery, which may resolve some issues.
3. Press the [RESET button] with a small pin. Note: This may erase stored data and settings. After resetting, press the [power button] to turn on.
4. Check software Help for problem information.
5. Search customer support websites (see "For the latest information").
6. If problems persist, contact your nearest Sony dealer.

Common Issues:

Battery Cannot Be Charged

• Cause: Not connected properly to USB. Remedy: Disconnect and reconnect.
• Cause: Ambient temperature out of range (5°C - 35°C). Remedy: Charge within the specified temperature range.
• Cause: Computer is off or in Sleep/Hibernate mode. Remedy: Turn on or wake the computer.

[CONNECTED USB] Not Appearing

• Cause: Not connected properly to USB. Remedy: Disconnect and reconnect.
• Cause: Using a USB hub (unless it provides power). Remedy: Connect directly to the computer's USB port.
• Cause: Another application is running. Remedy: Disconnect, wait, reconnect. If issues persist, restart the computer.
• Cause: Computer USB port issue. Remedy: Try a different USB port.
• Cause: Insufficient battery power. Remedy: Charge for at least 5 minutes.

Walkman Becomes Unstable While Connected

• Cause: Using a USB hub (unless it provides power). Remedy: Connect directly to the computer's USB port.

To Initialize (Format) Your "WALKMAN"

Formatting erases all data, including the User Guide, and resets settings. Back up necessary files before formatting.

1. Press and hold the [BACK/HOME button] until the Home menu appears.
2. Select [Settings] -> [Initialize] -> [Format] -> [OK].
3. Confirm the action. [FORMATTING...] will appear, followed by [COMPLETE].

[Note] Do not format in Windows Explorer. If accidental formatting occurs, reformat on the Walkman.

[Note] If formatted accidentally, download the User Guide from the website mentioned in "For the latest information."

Precautions

About the headphones

• Avoid listening at excessively loud volumes to protect your hearing.
• At high volumes, external sounds may be inaudible. Do not use in situations requiring awareness of surroundings (e.g., driving, cycling).
• The open-air design of the headphones allows sound to escape; be mindful of others nearby.

Do not expose batteries to excessive heat (sunlight, fire, etc.).

Rated current consumption: 500 mA.

For users in France: Refer to the specified headphone models (e.g., MDR-E804YLA) when replacing.

Prolonged listening at high volume can damage hearing.

For the latest information

Visit the Sony support websites for questions, issues, or compatible product information:

• USA: http://www.sony.com/walkmansupport
• Canada: http://www.sony.ca/ElectronicsSupport/
• Europe: http://support.sony-europe.com/DNA
• Latin America: http://www.sony-latin.com/index.crp
• Other countries/regions: http://www.sony-asia.com/support
• Overseas models: http://www.sony.co.jp/overseas/support/