The Sony Vaio PCG-F360 was released in 1999. It features at 14.1" screen with a Sony i.Link interface along with a DVD and floppy drive. The computer is identifiable by its model number sticker that's located under the screen on the right side of the laptop.

Laptop shuts off after unplugging power cord ¶ 

Dead battery ¶ 

Make sure that the computer is receiving power by plugging it into a powered outlet. If it will boot after this, then the battery is suspect. Several problems will cause a battery to malfunction. Sometimes older batteries may not hold a good charge due to age, or the battery might not be recognized by the system. Make sure you leave the computer plugged in for several hours to allow the battery enough time to properly charge before presuming it to be dead. If you find your battery needs replacement follow the battery replacement guide.

Optical drive/floppy drive won't read, or optical drive won't open ¶ 

Optical drive ¶ 

There can be a number of issues that can cause your optical drive to stop functioning or reading discs. First, be sure the disc is not the problem. Look for scratches and try another disc if necessary. If your drive won't open try to use a paper clip and stick it in the small hole located near the tray opening button this will eject the tray and you can put your disc in. If your drive won't read at all follow the optical drive replacement guide.

Floppy drive ¶ 

Like with the optical drive, if your floppy drive is not reading your disc, be sure the problem lies with the drive - try multiple floppies. If there is still a problem follow the floppy drive replacement guide.

Laptop shuts down without warning ¶ 

You were working on that file and didn't have time to save it...

Overheating ¶ 

This model is particularly prone to overheating, which can be a problem when you're working away and it crashes on you. Because of the age of this computer, this overheating can be caused by constant, strenuous use or possibly even a buildup of dust.

CPU Voltage Overload ¶ 

The amount of time from when you start up until it crashes is seemingly random

There are some problems with the computer randomly crashing due to the CPU's capacitors overloading, causing a failsafe mechanism to kick in, which shuts off your computer. This can be remedied by replacing the logic board.