Acer 310 User Manual

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Copyright © 1998 Acer Incorporated

All Rights Reserved — Printed in Taiwan

TravelMate 310 Series Notebook Computer User’s Guide
Part No. 49.42B01.011
Original Issue: June 1998

Changes may be made periodically to the information in this
publication. Such changes will be incorporated in new editions of
this manual.

Record the serial number, purchase date, and model number in the
space provided below. The serial number and model number are
recorded on the label affixed to the case. All correspondence
concerning your unit should include the serial number, model
number, and date of purchase.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval
system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic,
mechanical, photocopy, recording, or otherwise, without the prior
written permission of Acer Incorporated.

TravelMate Notebook Computer

Model___________Serial No.____________Purchase Date_______________

TravelMate is a trademark and a product of Acer Inc., developed with Texas
Instruments Inc. All other trademarks and registered trademarks are the
property of their respective companies. Microsoft, MS-DOS, and Windows are
registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.

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Notices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . v

Preface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xiii

Connecting the Notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xiv

Getting Help Online . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xvi

Support Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xvii

Care and Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xviii

Chapter 1 Getting Familiar with your Computer. . . . . . . 1

Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

Display. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Indicators and Microphone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Touchpad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Storage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

Ports. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

Securing your Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Table of Contents

Chapter 2 Operating on Battery Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Battery Pack. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32

Power Management. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39

Chapter 3 Peripherals and Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

External Monitor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46

External Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47

External Keypad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48

External Pointing Device. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49

Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51

Audio Devices. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52

PC Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53

External PCMCIA CD-ROM (optional) . . . . . . . . . . . .54

USB Devices. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55

Miscellaneous Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56

Key Component Upgrades. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Chapter 4 Moving with your Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Disconnecting from the Desktop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62

Moving Around . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63

Taking the Computer Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64

Traveling with the Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66

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Table of Contents

Traveling Internationally with the Computer . . . . . . 67

Chapter 5 Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

System Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

PhDISK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Notebook Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Setup Utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Chapter 6 Troubleshooting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

Frequently-Asked Questions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

Error Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

Appendix A Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

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Acer Year 2000 Compliance Statement

The Travelmate 310 series notebook computer is Year 2000­compliant and carries the “NSTL Hardware Tested Year
2000 Compliant” logo. The Travelmate 310 series notebook
computer has been tested both by Acer’s internal test labs
and NSTL’s YMARK2000 certification test. These tests
certify that the Travelmate 310 series notebook computer
will successfully make the year 2000 transition.

Notices

For more details, check the Acer Year 2000 Resource Center
at http://www.acer.com/year2000

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Notices

FCC Notice

This device has been tested and found to comply with the
limits for a Class B digital device pursuant to Part 15 of the
FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference in a residential
installation. This device generates, uses, and can radiate
radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications.

However, there is no guarantee that interference will not
occur in a particular installation. If this device does cause
harmful interference to radio or television reception, which
can be determined by turning the device off and on, the
user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one
or more of the following measures:

1. Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna

2. Increase the separation between the device and receiver

3. Connect the device into an outlet on a circuit different

from that to which the receiver is connected

4. Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/television
technician for help

Notice: Shield Cables

All connections to other computing devices must be made
using shielded cables to maintain compliance with FCC
regulations.

Notice: Peripheral Devices

Only peripherals (input/output devices, terminals, printers,
etc.) certified to comply with the Class B limits may be
attached to this equipment. Operation with non-certified
peripherals is likely to result in interference to radio and TV
reception.

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Caution

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the
manufacturer could void the user’s authority, which is
granted by the Federal Communications Commission, to
operate this computer.

Use Conditions

This part complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this
device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this
device must accept any interference received, including
interference that may cause undesired operation.

Notice: Canadian Users

Notices

This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the
Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations.

Remarque à l’intention des utilisateurs canadiens

Cet appareil numérique de la classe B respected toutes les
exigences du Règlement sur le matériel brouilleur du
Canada.

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Notices

Important Safety Instructions

1. Read these instructions carefully. Save these
instructions for future reference.

2. Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the
product.

3. Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning.
Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a
damp cloth for cleaning.

4. Do not use this product near water.

5. Do not place this product on an unstable cart, stand, or

table. The product may fall, causing serious damage to
the product.

6. Slots and openings in the cabinet and the back or
bottom are provided for ventilation; to ensure reliable
operation of the product and to protect it from
overheating, these openings must not be blocked or
covered. The openings should never be blocked by
placing the product on a bed, sofa, rug, or other similar
surface. This product should never be placed near or
over a radiator or heat register, or in a built-in
installation unless proper ventilation is provided.

7. This product should be operated from the type of power
indicated on the marking label. If you are not sure of
the type of power available, consult your dealer or local
power company.

8. Do not allow anything to rest on the power cord. Do not
locate this product where persons will walk on the cord.

9. If an extension cord is used with this product, make
sure that the total ampere rating of the equipment
plugged into the extension cord does not exceed the
extension cord ampere rating. Also, make sure that the
total rating of all products plugged into the wall outlet
does not exceed the fuse rating.

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10.Never push objects of any kind into this product
through cabinet slots as they may touch dangerous
voltage points or short out parts that could result in a
fire or electric shock. Never spill liquid of any kind on
the product.

11.Do not attempt to service this product yourself, as
opening or removing covers may expose you to
dangerous voltage points or other risks. Refer all
servicing to qualified service personnel.

12.Unplug this product from the wall outlet and refer
servicing to qualified service personnel under the
following conditions:

a. When the power cord or plug is damaged or frayed
b. If liquid has been spilled into the product
c. If the product has been exposed to rain or water
d. If the product does not operate normally when the

operating instructions are followed. Adjust only
those controls that are covered by the operating
instructions since improper adjustment of other
controls may result in damage and will often require
extensive work by a qualified technician to restore
the product to normal condition.

e. If the product has been dropped or the cabinet has

been damaged

f. If the product exhibits a distinct change in

performance, indicating a need for service.

13.Replace the battery with the same type as the product's
battery we recommend. Use of another battery may
present a risk of fire or explosion. Refer battery
replacement to a qualified serviceman.

14.Warning! Batteries may explode if not handled properly.
Do not disassemble or dispose of them in fire. Keep
them away from children and dispose of used batteries
promptly.

Notices

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Notices

15.Use only the proper type of power supply cord set
(provided in your accessories box) for this unit. It
should be a detachable type: UL listed/CSA certified,
type SPT-2, rated 7A 125V minimum, VDE approved or
its equivalent. Maximum length is 15 feet (4.6 meters).

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Lithium Battery Statement

CAUTION

Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced.
Replace only with the same or equivalent type
recommended by the manufacturer. Discard used batteries
according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

ADVARSEL!

Lithiumbatteri - Eksplosionsfare ved fejlagtig håndtering.
Udskiftning må kun ske med batteri af samme fabrikat og
type. Léver det brugte batteri tilbage til leverandøren.

ADVARSEL

Eksplosjonsfare ved feilaktig skifte av batteri. Benytt
samme batteritype eller en tilsvarende type anbefalt av
apparatfabrikanten. Brukte batterier kasseres i henhold til
fabrikantens instruksjoner.

Notices

VARNING

Explosionsfara vid felaktigt batteribyte. Anvãnd samma
batterityp eller en ekvivalent typ som rekommenderas av
apparattillverkaren. Kassera anvãnt batteri enligt
fabrikantens instruktion.

VAROITUS

Päristo voi räjähtää, jos se on virheellisesti asennettu.
Vaihda paristo ainoastaan laitevalmistajan suosittelemaan
tyyppiin. Hävitä käytetty paristo valmistajan ohjeiden
mukaisesti.

VORSICHT!

Explosionsgefahr bei unsachgemäßen Austausch der
Batterie Ersatz nur durch denselben oder einem vom
Hersteller empfohlenem ähnlichen Typ. Entsorgung
gebrauchter Batterien nach Angaben des Herstellers.

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This manual describes features of the TravelMate 310
Series notebook computers. The TravelMate series
computers incorporate such features as CardBus, 16-bit
stereo audio, Fast Infrared, internal pointing device, and
Universal Serial Bus.

This manual should answer most of the questions you have
about the day-to-day operation of your TravelMate notebook
computer.

Use the Just for Starters… instructions that came with your
computer to get your computer running for the first time.

You should also take advantage of the online help files that
are available with almost all of the programs shipped with
your computer.

We hope you enjoy your TravelMate computer. With proper
care, your computer will provide you with years of
productive service.

Preface

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Preface

Connecting the Notebook

Connecting the computer is easy; just follow these steps:

Note: Make sure the cover latch is unlock before inserting
the battery pack otherwise you won’t be able to insert the
battery pack.

1. Slide out the battery compartment cover (a) and align
the battery’s clasp to the cover and slide it down until
the battery is properly seated (b). Slide the battery with
the compartment cover back into the computer (c) and
then lock the battery in place (d).

a

b

c d

Note: When using a battery pack for the first time, fully
recharge the battery, then disconnect the adapter to use
up the battery before recharging again. You only need to
do this once with a new battery.

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2. Connect one end of the AC adapter to the DC-in port on
the computer’s rear panel and the other end to a
properly grounded power outlet.

Preface

3. Open the display cover and slide the power switch
towards the rear of the computer then release it to turn
on the power. The POST (Power On Self-Test) routine
executes and Windows begins loading.

Note: To turn off power, slide the power switch again. If
you are using Windows 95 or higher version operating
system, we recommend you use the Shutdown command
to turn off the computer. If you turn off the computer and
want to turn it on again, wait at least 2 seconds before
powering up.

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Preface

Getting Help Online

This user’s guide provides clear and concise information
about the notebook, so read it thoroughly. To provide you
with help when traveling, the notebook also comes with a
comprehensive online help.

Accessing Online Help

Follow these steps to access the online documentation:

1. Press the Windows logo button or Click on the Start
button.

2. Select Programs.

3. Click on TravelMate Online.

The online help is easy to navigate with hypertext and
hypergraphics. Clear illustrations help describe notebook
operation as well.

Getting Online

If you are connected to the Internet and have World Wide
Web access, visit our home page (http://www.acer.com/)
and get the latest information about our products.

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Support Information

Your notebook is backed by an International Traveler’s
Warranty (ITW) that gives you security and peace of mind
when traveling. Our worldwide network of service centers
are there to give you a helping hand.

An ITW passport comes with your computer. This passport
contains all you need to know about the ITW program. A
list of available, authorized service centers are in this handy
booklet. Read this passport thoroughly.

Note: Always have your ITW passport on hand, especially
when you travel to receive the benefits from our support
centers. Place your proof-of-purchase in the flap located
inside the front cover of the ITW passport.

Preface

If the country you are traveling in does not have an Acer­authorized ITW service site, you can still get in contact with
our offices worldwide.

For technical assistance and support in the United States
and Canada, you can call 1-800-816-2237. You can also
contact the local dealer or distributor in the country you are
traveling in for assistance.

To view support information, follow these steps:

1. Click on Start, Settings…, Control Panel.

2. Double-click on System.

3. Click on Support Information.

Note: If you are connected to the Internet and have World
Wide Web access, visit our home page (http://
www.acer.com/) and get an updated list of our worldwide
offices, as well as information about our products.

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Preface

Care and Maintenance

Taking Care of Your Computer

Your computer will serve you well if you take care of it.

❑ Do not expose the notebook to direct sunlight. Do not

place near sources of heat, such as a radiator.

❑ Do not expose to temperatures below 0ºC (32ºF) or above

50ºC (122ºF).

❑ Do not subject the notebook to magnetic fields.
❑ Do not expose the notebook to rain or moisture.
❑ Do not spill water or any liquid on the notebook.
❑ Do not subject the computer to heavy shock and

vibration.

❑ Do not expose the notebook to dust and dirt.
❑ Never place objects on top of the notebook to avoid

damaging the notebook.

❑ Never place the notebook on uneven surfaces.

Taking Care of your AC Adapter

Here are some ways to take care of your AC adapter:

❑ Do not connect the adapter to any other device.
❑ Do not step on the power cord or place heavy objects on

top of it. Carefully route the power cord and any cables
away from personal traffic.

❑ When unplugging the power cord, do not pull on the

cord itself but pull on the plug.

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❑ The total ampere ratings of the equipment plugged in

should not exceed the ampere rating of the cord if you
are using an extension cord. Also, the total current
rating of all equipment plugged into a single wall outlet
should not exceed the fuse rating.

Taking Care of your Battery Pack

Here are some ways to take care of your battery pack:

❑ Use only batteries of the same kind as replacements.

Turn the power off before removing or replacing
batteries.

❑ Do not tamper with batteries. Keep them away from

children.

❑ Dispose of used batteries according to local regulations.

Recycle if at all possible.

Preface

Cleaning and Servicing

When cleaning the notebook, follow these steps:

1. Power off the notebook and remove the battery pack.

2. Disconnect the AC adapter.

3. Use a soft cloth moistened with water. Do not use liquid

or aerosol cleaners.

Contact your dealer or see your service technician if any of
the following occurs:

❑ Notebook has been dropped or the body has been

damaged.

❑ Liquid has been spilled into the product.
❑ The notebook does not operate normally.

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Getting Familiar with your Computer

This computer combines high-performance, versatility,
power management features and multimedia capabilities
with a unique style and ergonomic design. Work with
unmatched productivity and reliability with your new power
computing partner.

This chapter gives an in-depth "tour" of the computer’s
many features.

Contents

Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Display. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Indicators and Microphone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Special Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Lock Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Embedded Keypad. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Windows Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Hot Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Keyboard Ergonomics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Touchpad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Touchpad Basics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Storage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Hard Disk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

External Drive. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Connecting an External Floppy Drive. . . . 18

Ports. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Rear Ports. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Fast Infrared . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Universal Serial Bus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Right Ports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Fax/Data Modem. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

PC Card Slots . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Securing your Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Security Notch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Passwords. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

1

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Features

Features

This computer was designed with the user in mind. Here
are just a few of its many features:

Performance

❑ Intel Pentium® processor with MMX™ technology
❑ 64-bit main memory and external (L2) cache memory
❑ Large LCD display and PCI local bus video with 128-bit

graphics acceleration

❑ External 3.5-inch floppy drive
❑ External CD-ROM drive (optional)
❑ High-capacity, enhanced-IDE hard disk
❑ Lithium-Ion battery pack
❑ Heuristic power management system with standby and

hibernation power saving modes

Multimedia

❑ 16-bit high-fidelity stereo audio with 3-D sound
❑ Built-in speaker
❑ Built-in microphone

Connectivity

❑ High-speed fax/data modem port
❑ Fast infrared wireless communication
❑ USB (Universal Serial Bus) port

Human-centric Design and Ergonomics

❑ Lightweight and slim
❑ Sleek, smooth and stylish design

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❑ Wide and curved palm rest
❑ Ergonomically-centered touchpad pointing device

Expansion

❑ CardBus PC card (formerly PCMCIA) slots (two type II/I

or one type III) with ZV (Zoomed Video) port support

❑ Upgradeable memory and hard disk

Features

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Display

Display

The graphics display offers excellent viewing, display
quality and desktop performance graphics. The computer
supports two different display configurations — Supertwist
Nematic (STN) or Thin-Film Transistor (TFT).

Video Performance

PCI local bus video with 128-bit graphics acceleration and

1.1MB Extended Data Out (EDO) video RAM boost video
performance.

Simultaneous Display

This computer supports simultaneous LCD and CRT
display by connecting an external monitor when giving
presentations. Simultaneous display allows you to control
the presentation from your computer and at the same time
face your audience. You can even connect other output
display devices such as LCD projection panels for large­audience presentations.

Power Management

The power management system incorporates an "automatic
LCD dim" feature that automatically decides the best
settings for your display and at the same time conserve
power. See “Power Management” on page 39 for more
information on power management.

Opening and Closing the Display

To open the display, slide the display lid latch to the left and
lift up the lid. Then tilt it to a comfortable viewing position.
The computer employs a microswitch that turns off the
display (and enters standby mode) to conserve power when

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you close the display cover, and turns it back on when you
open the display cover.

Note: If an external monitor is connected, the computer
turns off the display (but does not enter standby mode)
when you close the display cover.

To close the display cover, fold it down gently until the
display cover latch clicks into place.

Caution: To avoid damaging the display, do not
slam it when closing. Do not place any object on top
of the computer when the display is closed.

Display

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Indicators and Microphone

Indicators and Microphone

The computer has six easy-to-read status indicators (LEDs)
and a microphone near the display cover.

Power
Standby
Media Activity
Battery Charge
Caps Lock
Num Lock
Microphone

The Power and Standby indicators are visible even when
you close the display cover so you can see the status of the
computer while the cover is closed. The LED panel also has
an internal microphone for multimedia purposes.

Icon Function Description

Power Lights when the computer is on.

Standby Lights when the computer enters

Media Activity Lights when the hard disk is active.

Battery Charge Lights when the battery is being

Standby mode.

charged.

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Icon Function Description

Caps Lock Lights when Caps Lock is activated

Num Lock Lights when Numeric Lock is

Microphone Use for sound input

Indicators and Microphone

activated

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Keyboard

Keyboard

The keyboard includes an embedded keypad, separate
cursor keys, three Windows keys and twelve function keys.

Special Keys

Lock Keys

The keyboard has three lock keys which you can toggle on
and off.

Lock Key Description

Caps Lock When Caps Lock is on, all alphabetic characters

typed are in uppercase.

Num Lock
(Fn-SL)

Scroll Lock When Scroll Lock is on, the screen moves one line

When Num Lock is on, the embedded keypad is in
numeric mode. The keys function as a calculator
(complete with arithmetic operators +, -, *,
and /). Use this mode when you need to do a lot
of numeric data entry. A better solution would be
to connect an external keypad.

up or down when you press
Scroll lock does not work with some applications.

↑ or ↓ respectively.

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Embedded Keypad

The embedded keypad functions like a desktop numeric
keypad. It is indicated by small characters located on the
upper right corner of the keycaps. To simplify the keyboard
legend, cursor-control key symbols are not printed on the
keys.

Keyboard

Desired Access Num Lock On Num Lock Off

Number keys on
embedded keypad

Cursor-control keys
on embedded
keypad

Main keyboard keys Hold Fn while typing

Type numbers in a
normal manner.

Hold Shift while using
cursor-control keys.

letters on embedded
keypad.

Hold Fn while
using cursor­control keys.

Type the letters
in a normal
manner.

Note: If an external keyboard or keypad is connected to
the computer, the numlock feature automatically shifts
from the internal keyboard to the external keyboard or
keypad.

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Keyboard

Windows Keys

The keyboard has three keys that perform Windows specific
functions.

Key Description

Windows logo key Start button. Combinations with this key

Application key Opens the application’s context menu

perform special functions. Below are a few
examples:

+ Tab (Activate next Taskbar button)

ÿ

+ E (Explore My Computer)

ÿ

+ F (Find Document)

ÿ

+ M (Minimize All)

ÿ

Shift +

ÿ

(same as right-click).

+ M (Undo Minimize All)

ÿ

+ R (Display Run dialog box)

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Hot Keys

The computer employs hot keys or key combinations to
access most of the computer’s controls like screen contrast
and brightness, volume output and the BIOS setup utility.

Hot Key Icon Function Description

Keyboard

Fn-F1 Help Displays a list of the hotkeys

Fn-F2 Notebook

Manager

Fn-F3 Standby Puts the computer in

Fn-F4 Hibernation Puts the computer in

and their functions.

Access the notebook
configuration utility. See
“Notebook Manager” on
page 72.

Standby mode. Press any
key to return.

See “Standby mode” on
page 40 to know more
about Standby mode.

Hibernation mode (Save to
Disk). Press the power
switch to resume.

See “Hibernation mode”
on page 41 to know more
about Hibernation mode

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Keyboard

Hot Key Icon Function Description

Fn-F5 Display

Fn-F6 Speaker on/

Fn-F7 Speaker

Fn-F8 Speaker

9 Brightness

Fn-F

Fn-F10 Brightness up Increases the screen

Fn-F11 Contrast

toggle

off

volume
down

volume up

down

down

Switches display output
between the display
screen, external monitor (if
connected) and both the
display screen and
external monitor.

Turns the speaker on and
off; mutes the sound.

Decreases the speaker’s
volume level.

Increases the speaker’s
volume level.

Decreases the screen
brightness.

brightness.

Decreases the screen
contrast (available only for
models with STN displays).

Fn-F12 Contrast up Increases the screen

contrast (available only for
models with STN displays).

↑ PgUp Page Up Scrolls the screen one

Fn-

page up.

↓ PgDn Page Down Scrolls the screen one

Fn-

page down.

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Hot Key Icon Function Description

Keyboard

Fn-→ End End Go to the end of the

← Home Home Go to the beginning of the

Fn-

Fn-D Screen blank Turns the display screen

Fn-T Touchpad

Fn-SL Num Lock When Num Lock is on, the

Fn-Ins Print Screen Prints the information

Fn-Del System

1Fn-T only works when no external PS/2 mouse or external serial
mouse is connected to the computer.

on/off

Request

1

screen.

screen.

backlight off to save
power. Press any key to
return.

Turns the internal
touchpad on and off. See
“Touchpad” on page 15.

embedded keypad is in
numeric mode.

currently displayed on
screen.

Software specific function.

Activating Hot Keys

When activating hot keys, press and hold the first key Fn
before pressing the other key in the hot key combination.

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Keyboard

Keyboard Ergonomics

Located below the keyboard, the wide and curved palm rest
gives you a place to rest your hands while you type.

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Touchpad

The built-in touchpad is a PS/2-compatible pointing device
that senses movement on its surface. This means the
cursor responds as you move your finger on the surface of
the touchpad. The central location on the palm rest
provides ample comfort and support.

Touchpad

Note: Connecting an external PS/2 mouse to the computer
will automatically disable the touchpad.

Touchpad Basics

The following items teach you how to use the touchpad:

❑ Move your finger across the touchpad to move the

cursor.

❑ Press the left and right buttons located on the edge of

the touchpad to do selection and execution functions.
These two buttons are similar to the left and right
buttons on a mouse. Tapping on the touchpad produces
similar results.

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Touchpad

Function Left Button

Execution Click

twice
quickly

Selection Click once Tap once

Drag Click and

hold, then
use finger
to drag
the cursor
on the
touchpad

Access
context
menu

Right
Button

Click
once

Tap

Tap twice (at the same
speed as double­clicking the mouse
button)

Tap twice (at the same
speed as double­clicking the mouse
button) and hold finger
to the touchpad on the
second tap to drag the
cursor

Note: Keep your fingers dry and clean when using the
touchpad. Also keep the touchpad dry and clean.The
touchpad is sensitive to finger movements. Hence, the
lighter the touch, the better the response. Tapping too
hard will not increase the touchpad’s responsiveness.

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Storage

This computer comes with a high-capacity Enhanced-IDE
hard disk. You can also connect an external 3.5-inch,

1.44MB floppy drive to your computer.

Hard Disk

The removable hard disk module can be upgraded when
you need more storage space. See “Hard Disk Upgrade” on
page 60.

External Drive

The computer can share the parallel port with both a
printer and an external floppy drive. It can automatically
detect whether a printing device or a floppy drive has been
inserted. You can connect these two devices together using
an optional parallel cable (See “Parallel Cable” on page 57).
External 3.5-inch floppy drives come with a capacity of
720KB, 1.2MB, or 1.44MB.

Storage

You can also connect an external PCMCIA CD-ROM drive to
the computer. See “External PCMCIA CD-ROM (optional)”
on page 54 for more inforamtion on connecting an external
CD-ROM.

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Storage

Connecting an External Floppy Drive

Connect the larger end of the floppy drive cable to the
parallel port and the other end to the connector on the
external floppy drive.

Note: The external floppy drive is hot-pluggable. You do
not need to turn off the computer to connect and use the
floppy drive.

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Ports

Ports allow you to connect peripheral devices to your
computer as you would with a desktop PC.

Note: See Chapter 3 on how to connect external devices to
the computer.

Rear Ports

Ports

Caution: When opening the rear port cover, carefully
slide it under the computer using both hands.

# Icon Port Connects to...

1

2

PS/2 Port PS/2-compatible devices (e.g.,

PS/2 keyboard, keypad,
mouse)

FIR Port Infrared devices (e.g., infrared

printer, IR-aware computers)

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Ports

# Icon Port Connects to...

3

4

5

6

7

Fast Infrared

The computer’s fast infrared (FIR) port allows you to do
wireless data transfer with other IR-aware computers and
peripherals such as infrared printers. The infrared port can
transfer data at speeds of up to four megabits per second
(Mbps) at a distance of up to one meter.

Serial port Serial devices (e.g., serial

Parallel port Parallel devices (e.g., parallel

External
monitor port

USB Port USB devices

DC-in jack AC adapter and power outlet

mouse)

printer)

Display monitors (up to
1024x768 resolution, 64K-colors)

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To use FIR, position two IR-aware devices such that their IR
ports are no more than one meter apart and offset no more
than 15 degrees.

Ports

When the two computers are in position, simply begin the
data transfer as you normally would. See your file transfer
software for details.

Universal Serial Bus

The Universal Serial Bus (USB) port allows you to connect
USB peripherals without occupying system resources.

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Ports

Right Ports

# Icon Port Connects to...

1

2

3

4

5

Microphone­in jack

Speaker-out
jack

Modem jack Phone line

PC Card slots 16-bit PC Cards and 32-bit

Security Lock a Kensington-compatible

Audio line-in devices (e.g.,
external 3.5mm minijack
condenser microphone,
audio CD player, stereo
walkman)

Speakers or headphones

CardBus PC Cards (Only the
lower PC Card socket
supports ZV PC Cards)

key-based computer
security lock

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Fax/Data Modem

The computer has a built-in fax/data modem.

Caution: This modem port is not compatible with
digital phone lines. Plugging this modem into a
digital phone line will damage the modem.

To use the fax/data modem port, connect a phone cable
from the modem port to a telephone jack.

Ports

Start your communications software program. See your
communications manual for instructions.

PC Card Slots

There are two type II/I or one type III CardBus PC Card
slots found on the right panel of the computer. These slots
accept credit-card-sized cards that enhance the usability
and expandability of the computer.

PC Cards (formerly PCMCIA) are add-on cards for portable
computers, giving you expansion possibilities long afforded
by desktop PCs. Popular type II cards include flash
memory, SRAM, fax/data modem, LAN and SCSI cards.
Common type III cards are 1.8-inch ATA drives and cellular
modems. CardBus improves on the 16-bit PC card
technology by expanding the bandwidth to 32 bits.

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Ports

ZV (Zoomed Video) port support allows your computer to
support hardware MPEG in the form of a ZV PC card. Only
the lower PC Card socket supports ZV PC cards.

Note: Refer to your card’s manual for details on how to
install and use the card and its functions.

Inserting a Card

Insert the card into the desired slot and make the proper
connections (e.g., network cable), if necessary. See your
card manual for details.

For type III cards, insert card into the lower slot.

Ejecting a Card

Before ejecting a PC card:

❑ Exit the application using the card.
❑ Left-click on the PC card icon on the taskbar and stop

the card operation.

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Then press the slot eject button to eject the card.

Ports

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Audio

Audio

The standard computer configuration includes 16-bit high­fidelity stereo audio with further enhancements that
include 3D sound for true audio immersion. The speaker,
positioned beside the display, directs sound towards you
which allows for excellent sound output.

Speaker

For TFT Display Type Model

Speaker

For STN Display Type Model

Besides the built-in speaker, there is an audio port on the
right panel of the computer. See “Audio Devices” on page
52 for more information on connecting external audio
devices.

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Controlling Volume

The volume of the computer is easily controlled using
hotkeys. Press Fn-F7 to decrease the speaker’s volume level
or press Fn-F8 to increase the volume level. See “Hot Keys”
on page 11 for more information.

Audio

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Securing your Computer

Securing your Computer

Security features include hardware and software locks — a
security notch and a two-level password scheme.

Security Notch

A security notch located on the right panel of the computer
lets you connect a Kensington-compatible key-based
computer security lock.

Wrap a computer security lock cable around an immovable
object such as a table or locked drawer handle. Insert the
lock into the notch and turn the key to secure the lock.

Passwords

A two-level password scheme protects your computer from
unauthorized access. When set, no one can access the
computer without entering the correct password. See
“Security” on page 88 for more information on setting and
removing a password.

There are two types of passwords you can set:

❑ Supervisor Password secures your computer against

unauthorized use and prevents unauthorized access to
certain sections of the Setup Utility. Once set, you must
key-in this password to set certain parameters in the
Setup Utility. See “Setup Utility” on page 81 for details.

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❑ User Password secures your computer against

unauthorized use.

Important: Do not forget your password! If you
forget your password, you need to contact your
dealer.

Note: You must set the supervisor password before you

can set the user password.

Securing your Computer

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Operating on Battery Power

The computer operates on AC or battery power. This
chapter contains the information you need to know to
operate the computer on battery power. It also includes
information on how your computer manages and saves
power.

Contents

Battery Pack. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Battery Pack Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Installing and Removing the Battery Pack . . . . 33

Charging the Battery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Charging Modes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Checking the Battery Level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Using the Windows Battery Meter . . . . . . 35

Optimizing Battery Life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Battery-low Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Power Management. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Power Management Modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Display Standby Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Hard Disk Standby Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Peripheral Standby Modes . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Standby mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Hibernation mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Advanced Power Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

2

31

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Battery Pack

Battery Pack

The computer uses a battery pack that gives you long use
between charges.

Battery Pack Characteristics

The battery pack has the following characteristics:

❑ Employs Current Battery Technology Standards

The computer uses a Lithium-Ion battery pack. This
battery type does not have the memory effect problem of
Nickel Cadmium (NiCd). Li-Ion batteries consistently
provide the longest battery life, best-suited for road
warriors.

❑ Battery-low Warning

When the battery charge level becomes low, the
computer gives off warning beeps and the status
indicator flashes at regular intervals. This tells the user
that the battery power is critically low. You can correct
this situation by recharging the battery pack.

Whenever possible, use the AC adapter. The battery will
come in handy when you travel or during a power failure. It
is advisable to have an extra fully-charged battery pack
available as backup.

Note: When using a battery pack for the first time, fully
recharge the battery, then disconnect the adapter to use
up the battery before recharging again. You only need to
do this once with a new battery or with a battery that’s
been stored without being used for a long time. If the
computer is to be stored for more than two weeks, we
suggest that you remove the battery pack. Battery power
(from a fully charged battery pack) depletes in roughly a
day with the computer in Standby mode, or a month in
Hibernation mode or when the power is off.

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Warning: Do not expose battery packs to
temperatures below 0ºC (32ºF) or above 60ºC (140ºF).
This may adversely affect the battery pack.

Installing and Removing the Battery Pack

Before removing the battery pack, make sure that you have
an AC adapter connected to the computer; otherwise turn
off the computer.

Follow these steps:

1. Slide down the cover.

Battery Pack

2. Attach the battery to the cover. Align the battery’s clasp

to the cover and slide it down until the battery is
properly seated.

Note: Make sure the cover latch is unlock before inserting
the battery pack otherwise you won’t be able to insert the
battery pack.

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Battery Pack

3. Insert the battery into the computer.

4. Push the cover upward and then lock the cover.

To remove the battery pack, unlock the cover latch and
then slide down the battery compartment cover; pull out the
battery pack.

Charging the Battery

To charge the battery, place the battery pack inside the
battery compartment and plug the AC adapter into the
computer and an electrical outlet.

Charging Modes

The adapter has three charging modes:

❑ Rapid mode

The computer uses rapid charging when power is turned
off and a powered AC adapter is connected to it. In rapid

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mode, a fully depleted battery gets fully charged in
approximately two hours.

❑ Charge-in-use mode

When the computer is in use with the AC adapter
plugged in, the computer also charges the battery pack if
installed. This mode will take longer to fully charge a
battery than rapid mode. In charge-in-use mode, a fully
depleted battery gets fully charged in approximately six
to eight hours.

❑ Trickle mode

When the battery is fully charged, the adapter changes
to trickle mode to maintain the battery charge level.
This prevents the battery from draining while the
computer is in use.

Note: We suggest that you charge the battery pack before
retiring for the day, letting it charge overnight before
traveling. This ensures a fully charged battery for use the
next day.

Battery Pack

Checking the Battery Level

The computer features battery-low warning signals that are
both audible and visible. When the battery pack is low, the
computer emits warning beeps and the battery indicator
flashes at regular intervals. Also, you can check the battery
charge level using the Windows battery gauge.

Using the Windows Battery Meter

The Windows battery meter indicates the present battery
level. Simply rest your cursor on the battery gauge (or AC
plug) icon on the taskbar to see the present charge level of
your battery.

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Battery Pack

Optimizing Battery Life

This section helps you get the most out of battery operation.
Optimizing battery life prolongs the charge/recharge cycle
and improves recharge efficiency. Follow these suggestions
to optimize and maximize battery power:

❑ Purchase an extra battery pack.
❑ Use the PHDISK utility to reserve hard disk space for the

Hibernation function. See “PhDISK” on page 71.

❑ Use the AC adapter whenever possible so that the

battery is reserved for on-the-go computing.

❑ Keep the battery pack in the computer powered by the

AC adapter. The constant trickle charge maintains the
battery level to eliminate the battery self-discharge
effect. The charge-in-use function also charges the
battery pack.

❑ Disable the parallel and serial ports if no devices are

connected to these ports. You can do this through the
Setup Utility. See “Advanced” on page 86.

❑ Eject the PC card from the card slot when not in use,

since the PC card draws extra power.

❑ Store the battery pack in a cool, dry place. The

recommended storage temperature for battery packs
ranges from 10 to 30 degrees C. The higher the storage
temperature, the faster the battery pack self-discharges.

❑ The batteries can be recharged about 300 times when

used as directed. Excess recharging decreases battery
life.

❑ Take care of your battery pack and AC adapter. See

“Care and Maintenance” on page xviii of the Preface.

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Battery-low Warning

You never have to worry about battery power as long as you
are using the AC adapter. However, when you operate the
computer on battery power, pay extra attention to the
warning beeps and the power indicator on the display
panel.

The following signals indicate a battery-low condition:

❑ The buzzer generates four short beeps every minute, if

you enabled the Battery-low Warning Beep parameter in
Setup

❑ The power indicator flashes at regular intervals until

battery power is depleted

When you receive a battery-low warning, you have around
three minutes to save your work. If you do not connect the
AC adapter within this period, the computer enters
Hibernation mode if the Battery Low Suspend parameter in
Setup is enabled and the following conditions exist:

❑ The Hibernation file created by PHDISK is present and

valid. See “PhDISK” on page 71.

❑ There is enough battery power left to save system

information onto the hard disk.

Battery Pack

Otherwise, the computer enters Standby mode.

Warning: Connect the AC adapter to the computer as
soon as possible. Data is lost when computer power
is cut off during Standby mode.

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Battery Pack

The following table shows the recommended course of
action to take when you encounter a battery-low condition:

Situation Recommended Action

AC adapter
and power
outlet available

An extra fully­charged
battery pack
available

AC adapter or
power outlet
not available

1. Connect the AC adapter to the computer.

2. Save all necessary files.

3. Resume work.
Power off the computer if you wish to

recharge the battery rapidly.

1. Save all necessary files.

2. Exit the application.

3. Power off the computer.

4. Replace the battery pack.

5. Power on the computer and resume work.
or

1. Save all necessary files.

2. Enter Hibernation mode.

3. Install the extra battery pack.

4. Resume from Hibernation mode.

1. Save all necessary files.

2. Exit the application.

3. Power off the computer.
or

1. Save all necessary files.

2. Enter Hibernation mode.

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Power Management

This computer has a built-in power management unit that
monitors system activity. System activity refers to any
activity involving one or more of the following devices:
keyboard, mouse, floppy drive, hard disk, peripherals
connected to the serial and parallel ports, and video
memory. If no activity is detected for a period of time (called
an inactivity time-out), the computer stops some or all of
these devices in order to conserve energy.

Note: We recommend you enable power management to
prolong your battery life.

Power Management

Power Management Modes

Display Standby Mode

Screen activity is determined by the keyboard, the built-in
touchpad, and an external PS/2 pointing device. If these
devices are idle for the period specified by the Display
Timeout, the display shuts off until you press a key or move
the touchpad or external mouse.

"Automatic Dim" Feature

The computer has a unique "automatic dim" power saving
feature. When the computer is using AC power and you
disconnect the AC adapter from the computer, it
automatically dims the LCD backlight to save power. If you
reconnect AC power to the computer, it automatically
adjusts the LCD backlight to a brighter level.

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Power Management

Hard Disk Standby Mode

The hard disk enters standby mode when there are no disk
read/write operations within the period of time specified by
the Hard Disk Timeout. In this state, the power supplied to
the hard disk is reduced to a minimum. The hard disk
returns to normal once the computer accesses it.

Peripheral Standby Modes

The peripheral connections in your computer also power
down to save power if there is no activity within the period
of time specified by Timeout values for these devices. These
include audio, serial ports, floppy drive and parallel port.

Standby mode

The computer consumes very low power in Standby mode.
All data remains intact in the system memory until the
battery is drained.

There is one necessary condition for the computer to enter
Standby mode:

❑ Heuristic Power Management must be set to [ENABLED]

There are five ways to enter Standby mode:

❑ Pressing the Standby hot key Fn-F3
❑ Allowing the waiting time determined by the Standby

Timeout to elapse without any system activity

❑ Closing the display cover
❑ Allowing the computer to enter Hibernation mode when

battery is low, but

❑ the Hibernation file is invalid or not present, or

❑ Allowing the operating system power saving modes to

invoke it

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Note: If the computer beeps but does not enter Standby
mode after pressing the Standby hot key, it means the
operating system will not allow the computer to enter the
power saving mode.

The following signals indicate that the computer is in
Standby mode:

❑ The buzzer beeps
❑ The Standby indicator lights

Warning: Unstored data is lost when you turn off the
computer power in Standby mode (by holding the
power switch for more than 4 seconds) or when the
battery is drained.

Power Management

To leave Standby mode and return to normal mode:

❑ Press any key
❑ Move the active pointing device (internal or external, PS/

2 or serial)

❑ Allow the Resume Timer to be matched
❑ Open the display cover
❑ Receive an incoming PC card modem event when the

Resume on Modem Ring is enabled

Hibernation mode

In Hibernation mode, all power shuts off (the computer does
not consume any power). The computer saves all system
information onto the hard disk before it enters Hibernation
mode. Once you turn on the power, the computer restores
this information and resumes where you left off.

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Power Management

There are two necessary conditions for the computer to
enter Hibernation mode:

❑ The Hibernation file created by PHDISK must be present

and valid. See “PhDISK” on page 71

❑ Heuristic Power Management must be set to [ENABLED]

In this situation, there are four ways to enter Hibernation
mode:

❑ Pressing the Hibernation hot key Fn-F4
❑ Allowing the Hibernation Timeout to elapse without any

system activity

❑ Experiencing a battery low condition for about a minute.

With the Battery Low Suspend parameter in Setup set to
[ENABLED]

❑ Allowing the operating system power saving modes to

invoke it

Note: If the computer beeps but does not enter
Hibernation mode after pressing the Hibernation hot key,
it means the operating system will not allow the computer
to enter the power saving mode.

To exit Hibernation mode, press the power switch. The
computer also resumes from Hibernation mode if the
Resume Timer is set and matched.

Warning: Do not change any devices (such as add
memory or swap hard disks) when the computer is in
Hibernation mode.

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Advanced Power Management

This computer supports the APM standard designed to
further reduce power consumption. APM is a power­management approach defined jointly by Microsoft and
Intel. An increasing number of software applications
support APM to take advantage of power saving features
and allow greater system availability without degrading
performance.

For more information about APM under Windows 95 or
Windows 98, refer to your Windows 95 or 98 user’s manual.

Note: If you enable Heuristic Power Management in Setup
without APM installed and enabled, the system time and
date do not display the correct settings after the computer
returns to normal operation from Standby or Hibernation
mode. To update the time and date, reboot the computer.
APM should be enabled to avoid this problem. Advanced
Power Management greatly prolongs battery life. Use APM
whenever possible.

Power Management

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Peripherals and Options

Your computer offers expansion capabilities with its built-in
ports and connectors. This chapter describes how to
connect peripherals and hardware options that help you
use your computer with ease. When connecting
peripherals, read the manual included with the peripheral
for operating instructions.

You can also add more memory or upgrade your hard disk
when you need to in order to keep your computer in step
with the latest technology. You can purchase most of these
and other options directly from Acer.

Contents

External Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

External Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

External Keypad. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

External Pointing Device. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

External PS/2 Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

External Serial Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Audio Devices. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

PC Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

External PCMCIA CD-ROM (optional) . . . . . . . . . . . 54

USB Devices. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Miscellaneous Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Additional Power Packs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Battery Pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

AC Adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

PS/2 Y-Bridge Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Parallel Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

File Transfer Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Key Component Upgrades. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Memory Upgrade. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Memory Configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Hard Disk Upgrade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

3

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External Monitor

External Monitor

To show graphical effects on a larger display, connect an
external monitor to the CRT port. Read the monitor
manual for additional instructions.

Note: If an external monitor is not connected, closing the
display cover puts the computer into standby mode.

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External Keyboard

This computer has a keyboard with full-sized keys and an
embedded keypad. If you feel more comfortable using a
desktop keyboard, you can install a PS/2-compatible
external keyboard.

To connect an external keyboard, plug the external
keyboard into the PS/2 connector.

External Keyboard

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External Keypad

External Keypad

You can also use a 17-key numeric keypad for number­sensitive data entry applications. To connect the keypad,
plug in the keypad connector to the PS/2 port.

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External Pointing Device

This computer accepts either a PS/2-compatible or serial
mouse or similar pointing device.

External PS/2 Mouse

The built-in touchpad works alternately with an external
PS/2 mouse which is hot-pluggable. To use a PS/2­compatible mouse, simply plug it into the PS/2 port.

External Pointing Device

Note: The touchpad will be automatically disabled when
using an external PS/2.

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External Pointing Device

External Serial Mouse

If you use a serial mouse, plug it into the serial port.

To enable the serial mouse, use the Add New Hardware tool
in the Windows Control Panel.

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Printer

This computer supports both serial and parallel printers.
For a serial printer, plug the printer cable into a serial port.
For a parallel printer, plug the printer cable into the parallel
port. See your printer manual for operating instructions.

Printer

Note: If the printer does not function, enter Setup and
verify that the parallel port is enabled. See “Advanced” on
page 86 for assistance.

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Audio Devices

Audio Devices

Audio devices are easy to connect with the audio ports
accessible from the right side of the computer. You can
plug in an external microphone or audio line-in device to
the microphone-in jack. Amplified speakers or headphones
connect to the speaker-out jack .

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PC Cards

The computer has two CardBus PC card slots that
accommodate two type I/II or one type III PC card(s). Please
consult your dealer for PC card options available that you
can purchase for your computer.

PC Cards

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External PCMCIA CD-ROM (optional)

External PCMCIA CD-ROM (optional)

You can also connect an external CD-ROM device using a
PC Card.

Microphone-in

jack

To connect an external CD-ROM drive:

1. Turn on your computer.

2. Plug the external CD-ROM’s power adapter into an

electrical outlet and turn the external CD-ROM on.

3. Insert the external CD-ROM PC Card into the PC Card
slot. The computer will automatically detect the PC
Card.

4. Insert one end of the audio cable into the external CD­ROM and the other end into the microphone-in jack of
the computer

or
Insert an external speaker into the line-out jack of the

external CD-ROM drive.

Note: When you connect the audio to the computer, you
have to activate the sound by unchecking the mute
function or by increasing the volume control in Windows
95/98.

Audio cable

AC adapter

Line-out

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If you want to listen to audio CDs from the external CD­ROM drive, we advise you to use amplified external
speakers for better quality sound.

For more information about the external CD-ROM, please
refer to its user’s manual.

USB Devices

USB Devices

The computer has a USB (Universal Serial Bus) port that
allows you to connect peripherals without occupying too
many resources. Common USB devices include the mouse
and keyboard.

Most USB devices also include a built-in USB port
connector which allows you to daisy-chain other USB
devices.

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Miscellaneous Options

Miscellaneous Options

Additional Power Packs

You can order spare batteries and AC adapters.

Battery Pack

It is good practice to have a spare battery around, especially
when you travel. The Li-Ion batteries, coupled with power
management features, supply you with more power on-the­go.

AC Adapter

The compact AC adapter charges your battery pack and
supplies power to your computer. You can order a spare AC
adapter so you do not need to carry it from the office to your
home or destination.

Cables

PS/2 Y-Bridge Cable

The PS/2 Y-bridge cable allows you to connect two PS/2
devices, mouse and keyboard, to your computer
simultaneously.

Note: The keyboard must be connected to the connector
marked keyboard and the mouse must be connected to the
connector marked mouse.

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Connect the single connector end of the Y-bridge cable to
the computer’s PS/2 port and the double connector ends to
the two PS/2 devices.

Parallel Cable

Miscellaneous Options

The Parallel cable allows you to connect a printer and an
external floppy drive to your computer simultaneously.
However, you can only use one device at a time.

Connect the single connector end of the parallel cable to the
computer’s parallel port and the double connector ends to
the two devices.

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Miscellaneous Options

File Transfer Cable

Besides using the infrared port, you can also transfer files
between computers using a file transfer cable. Connect the
file transfer cable between the parallel ports of the two
computers and use your file transfer utility to perform the
transfer.

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Key Component Upgrades

The computer delivers superior power and performance.
However, some users and the applications they use may
demand more. This computer allows you to upgrade key
components when you need increased performance.

Note: Contact your authorized dealer if you decide to
perform a key component upgrade.

Memory Upgrade

Memory is upgradeable from 16 to 80MB, employing 16-/
32-/64-MB soDIMMs (Small Outline Dual Inline Memory
Modules).

Key Component Upgrades

Memory Configurations

The following table lists the possible memory
configurations:

Important! This system can only support SDRAM
memory type.

Slot 1 Total Memory

0 MB 16 MB

16 MB 32 MB

32 MB 48 MB

64 MB 80 MB

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Key Component Upgrades

Hard Disk Upgrade

You can upgrade your hard disk with a higher capacity
drive when you need more storage space. The computer
uses a 9.5mm 2.5-inch Enhanced-IDE hard disk.

Note: Contact your authorized dealer if you decide to
perform a hard disk upgrade.

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Moving with your Computer

This chapter gives you tips and hints on things to consider
when moving around or traveling with your computer. We
have arranged these according to the following situations:

❑ Moving Around — when you are just moving within

short distances, for example, from your office desk to a
meeting room.

❑ Taking the Computer Home — when you are moving

from your office to your home or vice versa.

❑ Traveling with the Computer — when you are moving

within a larger distance, for instance, from your office
building to a client’s office building or traveling locally.

❑ Traveling Internationally with the Computer — when

you are moving from country to country.

4

Contents

Disconnecting from the Desktop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Moving Around . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Preparing the Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

What To Bring to Short Meetings. . . . . . . . . . . 63

What To Bring to Long Meetings . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Taking the Computer Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Preparing the Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

What To Bring with You . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Special Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Setting Up a Home Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Traveling with the Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Preparing the Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

What To Bring with You . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Special Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Traveling Internationally with the Computer. . . . . . 67

Preparing the Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

What To Bring with You . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Special Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

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Disconnecting from the Desktop

Disconnecting from the Desktop

Follow these steps to disconnect your computer from
external accessories:

1. Save your work in progress.

2. Shut down the operating system.

3. Turn off the computer.

4. Disconnect the cord from the AC adapter.

5. Disconnect the keyboard, pointing device, printer,

external monitor, and other external devices.

6. Disconnect the Kensington lock if you are using one to
secure the computer.

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Moving Around

Preparing the Computer

Before moving the computer, close and latch the display
cover to place it in standby mode. You can now safely take
the computer anywhere you go within the building.

To bring the computer out of standby mode, open the
display.

What To Bring to Short Meetings

A fully charged battery runs the computer for 2-3 hours
under most circumstances. If your meeting is shorter than
that, you probably do not need to bring anything with you
other than the computer.

Moving Around

What To Bring to Long Meetings

If your meeting will last longer than 2 hours or if your
battery is not fully charged, you may want to bring the AC
adapter with you to plug in your computer in the meeting
room.

If the meeting room does not have an electrical outlet,
reduce the drain on the battery by putting the computer in
standby mode. Close the display cover whenever you are
not actively using the computer.

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Taking the Computer Home

Taking the Computer Home

Preparing the Computer

After disconnecting the computer from your desktop, follow
these steps to prepare the computer for the trip home.

1. Remove all media from the drives. Failure to remove the
media can damage the drive head.

2. Pack the computer in a protective case that can prevent
the computer from sliding around and cushion it if it
should fall.

Caution: Avoid packing items next to the top cover of
the computer. Pressure against the top cover can
damage the screen

What To Bring with You

Unless you already have some items at home, bring the
following items with you:

❑ AC adapter and power cord
❑ The printed user’s manual
❑ Media bay modules (external floppy and CD-ROM drive)

Special Considerations

Follow these guidelines to protect your computer while
traveling to and from work:

❑ Minimize the effect of temperature changes by keeping

the computer with you.

❑ If you need to stop for an extended period of time and

cannot bring the computer with you, leave the computer
in the trunk of the car to avoid exposing the computer to
excessive heat.

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❑ Changes in temperature and humidity can cause

condensation. Allow the computer to return to room
temperature, and inspect the screen for condensation
before turning on the computer. If the temperature
change is greater than 18°F (10°C), allow the computer
to come to room temperature slowly. If possible, leave
the computer for 30 minutes in an environment with a
temperature between outside and room temperature.

Setting Up a Home Office

If you frequently work on your computer at home, it may be
worthwhile purchasing a second AC adapter for use at
home. With a second AC adapter, you can avoid
transporting the extra weight to and from home.

Taking the Computer Home

If you use your computer at home for significant periods of
time, you might also want to add an external keyboard,
monitor, or mouse.

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Traveling with the Computer

Traveling with the Computer

Preparing the Computer

Prepare the computer as if you were taking it home. Be
sure the battery in the computer is charged. Airport
security often requires you to turn on your computer when
bringing it into the gate area.

What To Bring with You

Bring the following items with you:

❑ AC adapter
❑ Spare, fully-charged battery packs
❑ Media bay modules (external floppy and CD-ROM drive)
❑ Additional printer driver files if you plan to use another

printer

Special Considerations

In addition to the guidelines for taking the computer home,
follow these guidelines to protect your computer while
traveling:

❑ Always take the computer as carry-on luggage.
❑ If possible, have the computer inspected by hand. The

computer can safely pass through security X-ray
machines, but never expose the computer to a metal
detector.

❑ Avoid exposing floppy disks to hand-held metal

detectors.

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Traveling Internationally with the Computer

Traveling Internationally with the Computer

Preparing the Computer

Prepare the computer as you would normally prepare it for
traveling.

What To Bring with You

Bring the following items with you:

❑ AC adapter
❑ Power cords that are appropriate to the country to which

you are traveling

❑ Media bay modules
❑ Spare, fully-charged battery packs
❑ Additional printer driver files if you plan to use another

printer

❑ Proof of purchase, in case you need to show it to

Customs officials

❑ International Traveler’s Warranty passport

Special Considerations

Follow the same special considerations as when traveling
with the computer. In addition, these tips are useful when
traveling internationally:

❑ When traveling in another country, check that the local

AC voltage and the AC adapter power cord specifications
are compatible. If not, purchase a power cord that is
compatible with the local AC voltage. Do not use
converter kits sold for appliances to power the computer.

❑ If you are using the modem, check if the modem and

connector is compatible with the telecom system of the
country you are traveling in.

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This chapter discusses the important system utilities
bundled with your computer.

Contents

System Software. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

PhDISK. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Notebook Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Information Viewer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Boot Sequence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Password . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

Setting the Supervisor Password . . . . . . . 76

Setting the User Password . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

Power Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

Display Device. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

Setup Utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Navigating the Setup Utility. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Main . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

Hard Disk 0 Submenu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

Boot Device Priority Submenu . . . . . . . . . 85

Advanced . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88

Setting a Password . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

Removing a Password . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

Power Saving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

Exit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

5

Software

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System Software

System Software

The computer comes preloaded with the following software:

❑ Windows 95 or later operating system
❑ System utilities, drivers and application software

Note: To access Windows software applications, click on
the Start button and select the application folder. Then
click on the application icon to run the selected application.
To learn about the software and utility, make use of the
online help provided by the software.

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PhDISK

The PhDISK utility allows your computer to enter
hibernation mode. Before entering hibernation mode, your
computer saves all necessary information into a file or
partition created by PhDISK, then shuts off power to all
system components. On the next startup, the computer
reloads the information from the PhDISK file or partition
and resumes from where you left off.

Note: By default, this program is automatically loaded
and set up on your computer so you do not need to run
this program by yourself. You only need to run this if you
upgrade your memory. You can find PhDISK in the
\windows\command\ directory.

PhDISK

The program accepts the following parameters:

Syntax

PHDISK [options]
where options:

❑ /CREATE (/FILE or /PARTITION) creates the

hibernation file or partition

❑ /DELETE (/FILE or /PARTITION) deletes the

hibernation file or partition

❑ /INFO displays information on the hibernation file or

partition

❑ /REFORMAT PARTITION reformats the existing

hibernation file or partition

Caution: The Hibernation file is a hidden file named
SAVE2DSK.BIN; DO NOT delete or alter this file in
any way except by using the PHDISK utility.
Improper deletion or alteration of this file could
cause you to lose all access to your computer.

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Notebook Manager

Notebook Manager

The computer has a built-in system setup program called
Notebook Manager. The Windows-based Notebook Manager
allows you to set passwords, the startup sequence of the
drives and power management settings. It also shows
current hardware configurations.

Note: Certain hot key functions are disabled when you
access the notebook manager, because these functions are
also found in the notebook manager.

To start the Notebook Manager, press Fn-F2 or follow these
steps:

1. Click on Start, Programs, then Notebook Manager.

2. Select the Notebook Manager application to run the

program.

Note: Changes made to most settings in the Notebook
Manager take effect the next time the computer restarts. If
you make changes in the Power Management and Display
Device screen, these changes take effect immediately.

Notebook Manager consists of five sections:

❑ Information Viewer
❑ Boot Sequence
❑ Password
❑ Power Management
❑ Display Device

To select a section, click on the tab of the section you want
to view.

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Information Viewer

Information Viewer summarizes and lists information about
the specifications and settings of the different components
of your computer.

Notebook Manager

Note: Items in this table may differ slightly from the ones
onscreen.

Item Description

CPU Brand, type and clock speed of the CPU

(Central Processing Unit)

Total Memory Total amount of main memory (in megabytes)

Video RAM Total amount of video memory (in megabytes)

Hard Disk Size of hard disk (in megabytes)

Serial Port 1 Resource settings of serial port 1

Serial Port 2 Resource settings of serial port 2

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Notebook Manager

Item Description

Parallel Port Resource settings of the parallel port

External
Cache

Touchpad Setting of the internal pointing device

Pointing
Device

The current version of the computer’s BIOS is shown above
the Device-Configuration table.

Boot Sequence

Boot Sequence defines the boot sequence to follow when
your computer boots up.

Total amount of external cache memory (in
kilobytes)

Type(s) of the pointing device(s) detected,
internal and external

The Boot Sequence screen displays the bootable devices in
your computer and the order in which the booting sequence
will occur. The devices include the following:

❑ Floppy Drive

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❑ IDE Hard Drive

Simply drag and drop the devices to change the booting
order. Click on Apply to accept the sequence.

Password

Password is used to set, modify or delete the password(s) for
your computer.

Notebook Manager

There are two passwords used in the system:

❑ Supervisor Password. The supervisor password

prevents unauthorized access to sensitive parameters in
the Notebook Manager and BIOS Utility. It also prevents
unauthorized access to your computer at system startup
and at resume from standby/hibernation mode.

❑ User Password. The user password prevents

unauthorized access to your computer at system startup
and at resume from standby/hibernation mode.

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Notebook Manager

Setting the Supervisor Password

Note: Before you can set the User Password, you need to
set the Supervisor Password.

To set the Supervisor Password, follow these steps:

1. Click on the Change Supervisor Password button. The
following dialog box displays:

2. Click on the Enable Supervisor Password checkbox.

3. Click in the New Password textbox and type in up to

seven alphanumeric characters (A-Z, a-z, 0-9) which you
want to be your Supervisor Password.

4. Click in the Confirm Password textbox and retype the
password.

5. Click on OK to accept it.

Note: To change a password, follow the same steps used
to set a password. To remove a password, follow the
same steps used to set a password but leave both fields
blank.

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Setting the User Password

To set the User Password, follow these steps:

1. Click on the Change User Password button.

2. Click on the Enable User Password checkbox.

3. Click in the New Password textbox and type in up to

seven alphanumeric characters (A-Z, a-z, 0-9) which you
want to be your User Password.

4. Click in the Confirm Password textbox and retype the
password.

5. Click on OK to accept it.

Note: To change a password, follow the same steps used
to set a password. To remove a password, follow the
same steps used to set a password but leave both fields
blank.

Notebook Manager

You can also set password checks when the computer boots
up and/or when the computer resumes from standby/
hibernation mode. Simply click on the desired checkbox(es)
and click on Apply.

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Notebook Manager

Power Management

Power Management is used to set various settings related to
power management.

This includes the following power-saving-related features:

❑ Enable Heuristic Power Management. Select to enable

heuristic power management. See “Power Management”
on page 39 for more information on heuristic power
management.

❑ Enable display always on. Select to leave your display

always turned on, useful when you need to make
presentations on your computer.

❑ Enable modem ring resume on indicator. Select to allow

the computer to wake-up from standby mode when an
incoming modem ring is detected.

❑ Enable battery low warning beep. Select to allow the

computer to give off warning beeps when the computer
runs low on battery.

❑ Enable sleep upon battery low. Select to allow the

computer to enter standby or hibernation mode when
the computer runs low on battery.

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❑ Enable system resume timer. Select to allow the

computer to wake-up from standby mode if the resume
timer is set and matched.

❑ System Resume Timer. When Enable system resume

timer is selected, click on the button to set the System
Resume Timer.

Display Device

Display Device is used to control various settings related to
display device(s), such as the display brightness/contrast
levels.

Notebook Manager

The items in this screen include:

❑ Boot Display Device. Sets the default display device on

boot-up.

❑ Switching Display Device. Sets the current display

device.

Note: Make sure an external monitor is connected before
External monitor is selected.

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Notebook Manager

❑ Brightness for LCD Panel/Contrast for LCD Panel. Click

and drag to set the LCD screen brightness and contrast
levels.

Note: TFT active-matrix LCDs have fixed and optimized
contrast levels.

Click on the radio button of the desired item, then click on
Apply to accept. To modify the brightness and/or contrast
levels, click and hold the slider control and move to the
right to increase, move to the left to decrease the setting.
You can also click on the item, and use the cursor keys to
set the desired level.

80 User’s Guide