Acer 365 User Manual

Extensa 365 Series
Notebook Computers
User’s Guide

49.40B05.011
Printed in Taiwan

Copyright © 1998 Acer Incorporated

All Rights Reserved — Printed in Taiwan

Extensa 365 Series Notebook Computer User’s Guide
Part No. 49.40B05.011
Original Issue: Feb 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.

Extensa Notebook Computer

Model_______Serial No.____________Purchase Date________

Extensa 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.

NoticesNotices

FCC NoticeFCC 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:

n Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna
n Increase the separation between the device and receiver
n Connect the device into an outlet on a circuit different from

that to which the receiver is connected

n 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

iii

NoticesNotices

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.

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.

Usage 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

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.

iv

NoticesNotices

Important Safety InstructionsImportant 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.

v

NoticesNotices

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.

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

vi

NoticesNotices

13. Replace 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! The battery may explode if not handled properly.
Do not disassemble or dispose of it in fire. Keep it away from
children and dispose of any used battery promptly.

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).

Laser Compliance StatementLaser Compliance Statement

The CD-ROM drive in this computer is a laser product. The
CD-ROM drive’s classification label (shown below) is located on
the drive.

CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT

CAUTION:

INVISIBLE LASER RADIATION WHEN OPEN. AVOID EXPOSURE TO BEAM.

APPAREIL A LASER DE CLASSE 1 PRODUIT LASER

ATTENTION:

RADIATION DU FAISCEAU LASER INVISIBLE EN CAS D’OUVERTURE.
EVITTER TOUTE EXPOSITION AUX RAYONS.

LUOKAN 1 LASERLAITE LASER KLASSE 1

VORSICHT:

UNSICHTBARE LASERSTRAHLUNG, WENN ABDECKUNG GEÖFFNET
NICHT DEM STRAHLL AUSSETZEN.

PRODUCTO LÁSER DE LA CLASE I

ADVERTENCIA:

vii

NoticesNotices

RADIACIÓN LÁSER INVISIBLE AL SER ABIERTO. EVITE EXPONERSE A
LOS RAYOS.

ADVARSEL: LASERSTRÅLING VED ÅBNING SE IKKE IND I STRÅLEN.

VARO! AVATTAESSA OLET ALTTINA LASERSÄTEILYLLE

VARNING: LASERSTRÅLNING NÄR DENNA DEL ÄR ÖPPNAD

ÄLÄ TUIJOTA SÄTEESEEN

STIRRA EJ IN I STRÅLEN

VARNING: LASERSTRÅLNING NÄR DENNA DEL ÄR ÖPPNAD

STIRRA EJ IN I STRÅLEN

ADVARSEL: LASERSTRÅLING NÅR DEKSEL ÅPNES

STIRR IKKE INN I STRÅLEN

Lithium Battery StatementLithium 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.

VARNING

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

viii

NoticesNotices

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.

Taking Care of Your ComputerTaking Care of Your Computer

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

q Do not expose the

notebook to direct
sunlight. Do not place it
near sources of heat, such
as a radiator.

q Do not expose it to

temperatures below 0ºC
(32ºF)

or

q above 50ºC (122ºF).

ix

NoticesNotices

q Do not subject the

notebook to magnetic
fields.

q Do not expose the

notebook to rain or
moisture.

q Do not spill water or any

liquid on the notebook.

q Do not subject the

computer to heavy shock
and vibration.

q Do not expose the

notebook to dust and dirt.

x

NoticesNotices

q Never place objects on top

of the notebook to avoid
damaging the notebook.

q Never place the notebook

on uneven surfaces.

Taking Care of Your AC Adapter and Battery PackTaking Care of Your AC Adapter and Battery Pack

Here are some ways of taking care of your AC adapter.

q Do not connect the adapter to any other device.
q 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.

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

itself but pull on the plug.

q 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.

Here are some ways of taking care of your battery pack.
q Use only batteries of the same kind as replacements. Turn

the power off before removing or replacing batteries.

xi

NoticesNotices

q Do not tamper with batteries. Keep them away from children.
q Dispose of used batteries according to local regulations.

Recycle them if at all possible.

Cleaning and ServicingCleaning 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:

q Notebook has been dropped or the body has been damaged.
q Liquid has been spilled into the product.
q The notebook does not operate normally.

xii

ContentsContents

PrefacePreface

Chapter 1 Getting Familiar with your ComputerChapter 1 Getting Familiar with your Computer

1.1 Features .......................................................1-2

1.2 Display .........................................................1-4

1.3 Indicators .....................................................1-6

1.4 Keyboard ......................................................1-8

1.4.1 Special Keys ...................................1-8

1.4.2 Keyboard Ergonomics ...................1-14

1.5 Touchpad ...................................................1-15

1.6 Storage .......................................................1-17

1.6.1 Hard Disk.....................................1-17

1.6.2 Internal Drive ...............................1-17

1.7 Ports...........................................................1-19

1.7.1 Left Ports......................................1-19

1.7.2 Rear Ports.....................................1-23

1.8 Audio..........................................................1-25

1.9 Securing your Computer.............................1-26

1.9.1 Security Notch..............................1-26

1.9.2 Passwords ....................................1-26

Chapter 2Chapter 2 Operating on Battery PowerOperating on Battery Power

2.1 Battery Pack .................................................2-2

2.1.1 Battery Pack Characteristics...........2-2

2.1.2 Installing and Removing the

Battery Pack...................................2-3

2.1.3 Charging the Battery ......................2-4

2.1.4 Checking the Battery Level .............2-6

2.1.5 Optimizing Battery Life ...................2-6

2.1.6 Battery-low Warning.......................2-8

2.2 Power Management.....................................2-10

2.2.1 Power Management Modes............2-11

2.2.2 Advanced Power Management.......2-17

xiii

ContentsContents

Chapter 3Chapter 3 OptionsOptions

3.1 External Monitor...........................................3-2

3.2 External Keyboard ........................................3-3

3.3 External Keypad ...........................................3-4

3.4 External Pointing Device ...............................3-5

3.5 Printer ..........................................................3-7

3.6 Audio Devices ...............................................3-8

3.7 PC Cards ......................................................3-9

3.8 USB Devices ...............................................3-10

3.9 Miscellaneous Options................................3-11

3.9.1 Additional Power Packs.................3-11

3.9.2 Cables ..........................................3-11

3.10 Key Component Upgrades...........................3-14

3.10.1 Memory Upgrade ..........................3-14

3.10.2 Hard Disk Upgrade .......................3-16

Chapter 4Chapter 4 Moving with your ComputerMoving with your Computer

4.1 Disconnecting from the Desktop ...................4-2

4.2 Moving Around .............................................4-3

4.2.1 Preparing the Computer..................4-3

4.2.2 What To Bring to Short Meetings ....4-3

4.2.3 What To Bring to Long Meetings......4-3

4.3 Taking the Computer Home ..........................4-4

4.3.1 Preparing the Computer..................4-4

4.3.2 What To Bring with You..................4-4

4.3.3 Special Considerations....................4-4

4.3.4 Setting Up a Home Office ................4-5

4.4 Traveling with the Computer.........................4-6

4.4.1 Preparing the Computer..................4-6

4.4.2 What To Bring with You..................4-6

4.4.3 Special Considerations....................4-6

xiv

4.5 Traveling Internationally with the

Computer .....................................................4-8

4.5.1 Preparing the Computer..................4-8

4.5.2 What To Bring with You..................4-8

4.5.3 Special Considerations....................4-9

Chapter 5Chapter 5 System UtilitiesSystem Utilities

5.1 Sleep Manager ..............................................5-2

5.1.1 Accessing the Sleep Manager ..........5-3

5.1.2 Sleep Manager Functions................5-6

5.2 SafeOff........................................................5-10

5.3 Setup Utility ...............................................5-11

5.3.1 Basic System Settings...................5-13

5.3.2 Startup Configuration...................5-15

5.3.3 Onboard Devices Configuration.....5-18

5.3.4 System Security............................5-20

5.3.5 Power Management Settings .........5-22

5.3.6 Load Default Settings....................5-25

ContentsContents

Chapter 6Chapter 6 TroubleshootingTroubleshooting

6.1 Q & A ...........................................................6-2

6.2 Error Messages.............................................6-7

Appendix AAppendix A SpecificatioSpecificationsns

Appendix BAppendix B Where to Get HelpWhere to Get Help

IndexIndex

xv

xvi

PrefacePreface

This manual describes features of the Extensa 365
Series notebook computer. The Extensa series of
computers incorporate such features as a
CardBus, 16-bit stereo audio, and internal
pointing device.

This manual should answer most of the questions
you have about the day-to-day operation of your
Extensa 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 Extensa computer. With
proper care, your computer will provide you with
years of productive service.

xvii

PrefacePreface

Connecting the NotebookConnecting the Notebook

Connecting the computer is as easy is 1-2-3.

1. Insert the battery pack into the battery
compartment and slide the battery
compartment cover in place. The battery pack
has a pull loop at the end for easy removal.

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.

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

xviii

3. Slide the display cover latch to the left to open

the display. Then press the power switch to
turn on the power. The POST (Power-On Self­Test) routine executes and Windows begins
loading.

Note: To turn off the power, press the power
switch for more than four seconds. If you are
using Windows 95, we recommend that 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.

11

22

PrefacePreface

33

xix

PrefacePreface

Getting Help OnlineGetting 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 has a comprehensive
online help.

Accessing Online HelpAccessing Online Help

Follow these steps to access the online
documentation:

1. Press the Windows logo key or click on the
Start button.

2. Select Programs.

xx

3. Click on Extensa Online.

The online help is easy to navigate with hypertext
and hypergraphics, so you can simply click on
highlighted items to learn more about them. Clear
illustrations help describe notebook operation as
well.

Getting OnlGetting Onlineine

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.

Getting Familiar with yourGetting Familiar with your

ComputerComputer

This computer combines high-performance,
versatility, power management features and
multimedia capabilities with 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.

11

1-1

Getting Familiar with yourGetting Familiar with your
ComputerComputer

1.11.1 FeaturesFeatures

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

PerformancePerformance

q Intel Pentium

technology

q 64-bit main memory and external (L2) cache

memory

q Large LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) and PCI

(Peripheral Component Interconnect) local
bus video with graphics acceleration

q Internal CD-ROM drive and external 3.5-inch

floppy drive (CD-ROM drive model)

q Internal 3.5-inch floppy drive (FDD model)

q High-capacity, Enhanced-IDE (Integrated

Device Electronics) hard disk

q Nickel Metal-Hydride battery pack

q Power management system with standby and

hibernation power saving modes

®

processor with MMX

1-2

MultimediaMultimedia

q 16-bit high-fidelity stereo audio with 3-D

sound

q Built-in dual speakers

Getting Familiar with yourGetting Familiar with your

ComputerComputer

q Ultra-slim, high-speed CD-ROM drive

ConnectivityConnectivity

q High-speed fax/data modem port1 (on some

models)

q USB (Universal Serial Bus) port

Human-centric Design and ErgonomicsHuman-centric Design and Ergonomics

q Lightweight and slim

q Sleek, smooth and stylish design

q Full-sized keyboard

q Wide and curved palm rest

q Ergonomically-centered touchpad pointing

device

ExpansionExpansion

q CardBus PC card (formerly PCMCIA) slots

(two type II/I or one type III) with ZV (Zoomed
Video) port support on upper slot

q User-upgradeable memory and hard disk

1

This feature is available only in the U.S., Canada, Japan and
Taiwan. For other regions, you can connect a PC Card modem.
Consult your dealer for details.

1-3

Getting Familiar with yourGetting Familiar with your
ComputerComputer

1.21.2 DisplayDisplay

The large graphics display offers excellent viewing,
display quality and desktop performance graphics.
The computer supports two different display
configurations — high contrast DSTN or TFT.

Video PerformanceVideo Performance

PCI local bus video with graphics accelerator and

1.1MB EDO video RAM to boost video

performance.

Simultaneous DisplaySimultaneous Display

The computer’s large display and multimedia
capabilities are great for giving presentations. If
you prefer, you can also connect an external
monitor when giving presentations. This computer
supports simultaneous LCD and CRT display.
Simultaneous display allows you to control the
presentation from your computer and at the same
time face your audience. You can even connect an
LCD projection panel for large-audience
presentations.

1-4

Power ManagementPower 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 conserves power. See section 2.2
for more information on power management.

Getting Familiar with yourGetting Familiar with your

ComputerComputer

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

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

Warning: 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.

1-5

Getting Familiar with yourGetting Familiar with your
ComputerComputer

1.31.3 IndicatorsIndicators

The computer has six easy-to-read indicator lights
(LEDs) near the display cover.

11
22
33
44
55
66

1-6

Two of these LEDs, Power and Standby, are visible
even when you close the display cover so you can
see the status of the computer while the cover is
closed.

Getting Familiar with yourGetting Familiar with your

ComputerComputer

## IconIcon FunctionFunction DescriptionDescription

1 Power Lights when the computer is

on.
Flashes when the battery is
low.

2 Standby

3 Media Activity Lights when the hard disk

4 Battery Charge Lights when the battery is

5 Caps Lock Lights when Caps Lock is

6 Num Lock Lights when Num Lock is

Flashes when the computer

enters Standby mode.

or CD-ROM drive is active.

being charged.

activated.

activated.

1-7

Getting Familiar with yourGetting Familiar with your
ComputerComputer

1.41.4 KeyboardKeyboard

The keyboard has full-sized keys and includes an
embedded keypad, separate cursor keys, two
Windows 95 keys and twelve function keys.

1.4.11.4.1 Special KeysSpecial Keys

Lock KeysLock Keys

1-8

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

Lock KeyLock Key DescriptionDescription

Caps
Lock

Fn­NumLk

Fn-ScrLk When Scroll Lock is on, the screen moves one

When Caps Lock is on, all alphabetic
characters typed are in uppercase.

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.

line up or down when you press ↑↑ or ↓↓

respectively. However, Scroll Lock does not

Getting Familiar with yourGetting Familiar with your

ComputerComputer

work with some applications.

Embedded KeypadEmbedded 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, cursor­control key symbols are not printed on the keys.

Desired AccessDesired Access Num Lock OnNum Lock On Num Lock OffNum Lock Off

Number keys on
embedded
keypad

Cursor-control
keys on
embedded
keypad

Main keyboard
keys

Type numbers in a
normal manner.

Hold Shift while
using cursor­control keys.

Hold Fn while
typing 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.

1-9

Getting Familiar with yourGetting Familiar with your
ComputerComputer

Windows 95 KeysWindows 95 Keys

The keyboard has two keys that perform Windows
95-specific functions.

KeyKey DescriptionDescription

Windows
logo key

Application
key

Start button. Combinations with this key
perform special functions. Below are a few
examples:

q Windows + Tab Activates next Taskbar

button

q Windows + E Explore My Computer
q Windows + F Find Document
q Windows + M Minimize All
q Shift + Windows + M Undo Minimize All
q Windows + R Displays Run dialog box

Opens the application’s context menu (same
as right-click).

1-10