Hi, I think this is not Tails-specific but applies to any Linux distro. I own a VGN-Z5 and had trouble getting the video card(s) to work properly on Ubuntu/Mint/Kubuntu etc. too. Sometimes it worked, sometimes not. The only lasting fix I found was to flash the Insyde BIOS with an advanced version. This version unlocks some "hidden" BIOS settings and gives you the possibility to disable the automatic switching of the video cards directly in the BIOS (set it to "static"). No more blank screen, no more reboots, no more freezing.
I started with the description here: http://forum.notebookreview.com/sony/473226-insyde-hacking-new-vaio-z-advanced-menu-bios.html Be warned: Flashing the BIOS is risky and could lead to an unbootable computer. However, in my case everything worked great. I had to tweak the script advanced_menu.py though and set the offset values in the script according to my specific model. If you want to give it a try, please make sure to backup the current BIOS in case something goes wrong and make sure you know how to re-flash with the backup. Jochen On 06.02.2014 01:38, hubert depesz lubaczewski wrote: > Hi, > I have Laptop Sony Vaio Z, Model PCG-3111M. Looks like this one: > http://www.geek.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/sony_vaio_z_series_03.jpg > > When booting (from usb, didn't try from dvd, but I don't think it > matters) I get normal grub (?), then it starts X, I get blue background, > and that's all - can't move mouse, nothing else happens. > > Sometimes, it boots to system, but then it freezes in there. > > I think it could be related to the fact that this laptop has two graphic > cards - intel and nvidia, switched somehow (in windows I can use the > triangle switch that's on the left side just above F2). > > Does anyone of you have any idea on how to debug it, and possibly fix? > This machine would be perfect for me, as it's relatively fast, has nice > screen, and built-in gsm modem. > > Best regards, > > depesz > _______________________________________________ Tails-support mailing list [email protected] https://mailman.boum.org/listinfo/tails-support
