Acer Aspire 6920 Service Manual

Aspire 6920 Series

Service Guide

Service guide files and updates are available

on the ACER/CSD web; for more information,

please refer to http://csd.acer.com.tw

PRINTED IN TAIWAN

Revision History

Please refer to the table below for the updates made on Aspire6920 service guide.

Date Chapter Updates

II

Copyright

Copyright © 2008 by Acer Incorporated. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced,
transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language or computer language, in
any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, magnetic, optical, chemical, manual or otherwise, without
the prior written permission of Acer Incorporated.

Disclaimer

The information in this guide is subject to change without notice.

Acer Incorporated makes no representations or warranties, either expressed or implied, with respect to the
contents hereof and specifically disclaims any warranties of merchantability or fitness for any particular
purpose. Any Acer Incorporated software described in this manual is sold or licensed "as is". Should the
programs prove defective following their purchase, the buyer (and not Acer Incorporated, its distributor, or its
dealer) assumes the entire cost of all necessary servicing, repair, and any incidental or consequential
damages resulting from any defect in the software.

Acer is a registered trademark of Acer Corporation.
Intel is a registered trademark of Intel Corporation.
Pentium and Pentium II/III are trademarks of Intel Corporation.
Other brand and product names are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective holders.

III

Conventions

The following conventions are used in this manual:

SCREEN
MESSAGES

NOTE Gives bits and pieces of additional

WARNING Alerts you to any damage that might

CAUTION Gives precautionary measures to

IMPORTANT Reminds you to do specific actions

Denotes actual messages that appear
on screen.

information related to the current
topic.

result from doing or not doing specific
actions.

avoid possible hardware or software
problems.

relevant to the accomplishment of
procedures.

IV

Preface

Before using this information and the product it supports, please read the following general information.

1. This Service Guide provides you with all technical information relating to the BASIC CONFIGURATION
decided for Acer's "global" product offering. To better fit local market requirements and enhance product
competitiveness, your regional office MAY have decided to extend the functionality of a machine (e.g.
add-on card, modem, or extra memory capability). These LOCALIZED FEATURES will NOT be covered
in this generic service guide. In such cases, please contact your regional offices or the responsible
personnel/channel to provide you with further technical details.

2. Please note WHEN ORDERING FRU PARTS, that you should check the most up-to-date information
available on your regional web or channel. If, for whatever reason, a part number change is made, it will
not be noted in the printed Service Guide. For ACER-AUTHORIZED SERVICE PROVIDERS, your Acer
office may have a DIFFERENT part number code to those given in the FRU list of this printed Service
Guide. You MUST use the list provided by your regional Acer office to order FRU parts for repair and
service of customer machines.

V

VI

System Specifications

Features

Below is a brief summary of the computer’s many feature:

Chapter 1

Operating system: Windows Vista™

NOTE: Windowsl

to Windows
to: Microsoft.com/windowsvista.

®

VistaTM Capable PCs come with Windows® XP installed, and can be upgraded

®

VistaTM. For more information on Windows® VistaTM and how to upgrade, go

Platform and memroy

• Intel® Centrino® Duo mobile processor technology, featuring:

• Intel® Core™2 Duo mobile processor

• Mobile Intel® GM965/PM965 Express Chipset

• Intel® Wireless WiFi Link Wi-Fi CERTIFIED® network connection

• Intel® PRO/Wireless Wi-Fi CERTIFIED® network connection.

• Dual-Channel DDR2 SDRAM support

• Up to 2 GB of DDR2 667 MHz memory, upgradeable to 4 GB using two soDIMM modules

Display and graphics

• Mobile Intel® GM965/PM965 Express Chipset (for selected models)

• NVIDIA® GeForce® 9500M GS with 512MB of dedicated VRAM supporting TurboCache™ (for

selected models)

TV-tuner

• Digital TV-tuner supporting DVB-T

Audio

• Dolby® -certified surround sound system with two built-in stereo speakers and one subwoofer

supporting lowfrequency effects

• S/PDIF (Sony/Philips Digital Interface) support for digital speakers

• Built-in stereo microphones

Chapter 1 1

Storage subsystem

• 2.5" hard disk drive

• Optical drive options:

• Blu-ray Disc™ (BD) drive (for selected models)

• DVD-Super Multi double-layer drive

• 6-in-1 card reader

Input devices

• 88-/89-key keyboard

• Touchpad pointing device

• Acer CineDash media console capacitive human interface device, including: capacitive

human interface device.

Communication

• Acer Video Conference, featuring:

• Integrated Acer Crystal Eye webcam

• Acer Video Conference Manager software

• Acer PureZone technology

• Optional Acer Xpress VoIP phone

• WLAN: Intel

• WPAN: Bluetooth

• LAN: Gigabit Ethernet, Wake-on-LAN ready

• Modem: 56K ITU V.92

® Wireless WiFi Link network connection or Intel® PRO/Wireless network connection

® 2.0+EDR

I/O Ports

• ExpressCard™/54 slot

• 6-in-1 card reader (SD™, MMC, MMCplus™, MS, MS PRO, xD)

• Four USB 2.0 ports

• HDMI™ port with HDCP support (for selected models)

• Consumer infrared (CIR) port

• External display (VGA) port

• Headphone/speaker/line-out jack with S/PDIF support

• Microphone-in jack

• Line-in jack

• Ethernet (RJ-45) port

• Modem (RJ-11) port

NOTE:

2 Chapter 1

• HDCP is acronym for High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection. An encryption system for enforcing

digital rights management (DRM) over DVI and HDMI interfaces

Environment

• Temperature:

•operating: 5 C to 35 C

°°

•Non-operating: -20 C to 65 C

•Humidity (non-condensing):

•operating: 20%~80%

•Non-operating: 20%~80%

°°

Chapter 1 3

System Block Diagram

4 Chapter 1

Board Layout

Chapter 1 5

6 Chapter 1

Your Acer Notebook tour

After knowing your computer features, let us show you around your new Aspire computer.

Chapter 1 7

Closed Front View

8 Chapter 1

Left View

Chapter 1 9

Right View

10 Chapter 1

Chapter 1 11

Base view

12 Chapter 1

Indicators

The computer has several easy-to-read status indicators.

The front panel indicators are visible even when the computer cover is closed up.

NOTE: 1. Charging: The light shows amber when the battery is charging. 2. Fully charged: The light shows

green when in AC mode.

Easy-Launch Buttons

Located beside the keyboard are application buttons. These buttons are called easy-launch buttons. They are:
WLAN, Internet, email, Bluetooth and Acer Empowering Technology.

Chapter 1 13

The mail and Web browser buttons are pre-set to email and Internet programs, but can be reset by users. To
set the Web browser, mail and programmable buttons, run the Acer Launch Manager.

Touchpad Basics

The following teaches you how to use the touchpad:

14 Chapter 1

Move your finger across the touchpad (2) to move the cursor.

Press the left (1) and right (4) buttons located beneath the touchpad to perform selection and execution
functions. These two buttons are similar to the left and right buttons on a mouse. Tapping on the touchpad is
the same as clicking the left button.

Use the 4-way scroll (3) button to scroll up or down and move left or right a page. This button mimics your
cursor pressing on the right scroll bar of Windows applications.

NOTE: When using the touchpad, keep it - and your infers - 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.

Chapter 1 15

Using the Keyboard

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

Lock Keys and embedded numeric keypad

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

The embedded numeric 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.

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
cursor-control keys.

Type the letters in a normal
manner.

16 Chapter 1

Windows Keys

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

Hot Keys

The computer employs hotkeys or key combinations to access most of the computer’s controls like sreen
brightness, volume output and the BIOS utility.

To activate hot keys, press and hold the <Fn> key before pressing the other key in the hotkey combination.

Chapter 1 17

Special Key

You can locate the Euro symbol and US dollar sign at the upper-center and/or bottom-right of your keyboard.
To t y pe :

18 Chapter 1

The Euro symbol

1. Open a text editor or word processor.

2. Either directly press the <> symbol at the bottom-right of the keyboard, or hold <Alt Gr> and then
press the<5> symbol at the upper-center of the keyboard.

NOTE: Some fonts and software do not support the Euro symbol. Please refer to www.microsoft.com/

typography/faq/faq12.htm for more information.

The US dollar sign

1. Open a text editor or word processor.

2. Either directly press the <> key at the bottom-right of the keyboard, or hold <Shift> and then press the
<4> key at the upper-center of the keyboard.

NOTE: This function varies by the operating system version.

Chapter 1 19

Acer Empowering Technology

Acer’s innovative Empowering Technology makes it easy for you to access frequently used functions and
manage your new Acer notebook. It features the following handy utilities:

• Acer eAudio Management allows you to easily control the enhanced sound effects of Dolby Home

Theater on your system.

• Acer ePower Management optimizes battery usage via customizable power plans.

• Acer eDataSecurity Management protects data with passwords and encryption (for selected

models).

• Acer eRecovery Management backs up and recovers data flexibly, reliablyand completely.

• Acer eSettings Management accesses system information and adjusts settings easily.

For more information, press the < > key to launch the Empowering Technology menu, then click on the
appropriate utility and select the Help or Tutorial function.

Empowering Technology password

You must set the Empowering Technology password to use the password

protection feature of Acer eRecovery Management to protect your data.

To set the Empowering Technology password:

1 Launch Acer eRecovery Management.

2 Click the Restore tab.

3 Click Password settings. The Empowering Technology Password Center dialog box pops up.

4 Click Create a new password.

5 In the Create a New Password dialog box, key in and confirm your password in the appropriate boxes.

Your password should have a minimum of 4 and a maximum of 12 characters.

6 Enter a password hint that will help you remember your password.

20 Chapter 1

7 Make sure the box Use for Acer eRecovery Management is checked.

8 Click OK to set the password.

Acer eAudio Management

Acer eAudio Management allows you to easily control the enhanced sound

effects of Dolby Home Theater on your system. Select Movie or Game mode to

experience the awesome realism of 5.1-channel audio output from the speakers

fitted to your system via Dolby Surround sound technology. Music mode lets

you enjoy your favorite tunes, in vivid detail.

Chapter 1 21

To choose your playback device, click the icon on the upper right side of

the Acer eAudio Management window.

Acer ePower Management

Acer ePower Management features a straightforward user interface for

configuring your power management options. To access this utility, select Acer

ePower Management from the Empowering Technology toolbar, run the

program from the Acer Empowering Technology program group in Start menu,

or right-click the Windows power icon in the system tray and select Acer ePower

Management.

AC Mode (Adapter mode)

The default setting is “Maximum Performance.” You can adjust CPU speed, LCD brightness and other
settings, or click on buttons to turn the following functions on/off: Wireless LAN, Bluetooth, CardBus, FireWire
(1394), Wired LAN and Optical Device if supported.

DC Mode (Battery mode)

There are four pre-defined profiles - Entertainment, Presentation, Word Processing, and Battery Life. You can
also define up to three of your own.

To create new power profile

1. Change power settings as desired.

2. Click “Save as...” to save to a new power profile.

3. Name the newly created profile.

4. Select whether this profile is for Adapter or Battery mode, then click OK.

5. The new profile will appear in the profile list.

Battery status

For real-time battery life estimates based on current usage, referto the panel on the lower left-hand side of the
window.

22 Chapter 1

For additional options, click “Settings” to:

Set alarms.

Re-load factory defaults.

Select what actions will be taken when the cover is closed or the power button is pressed.

View information about Acer ePower Management.

Acer eDataSecurity Management

(for selected models)

Acer eDataSecurity Management is an encryption utility that protects your files

from being accessed by unauthorized persons. It is conveniently integrated with

Windows Explorer as a shell extension for quick data encryption/decryption and

also supports on-the-fly file encryption for Lotus Notes and Microsoft Outlook.

On first use, the Acer eDataSecurity Management setup wizard will prompt you

to create the Master Password. You will use this password to access the Personal

Secure Disk (PSD). The Master Password may also be used to encrypt/decrypt

files by default.

If you set a different password to encrypt a file, but you forgot the encryption

password, you can use the Master Password to decrypt the file.

Chapter 1 23

24 Chapter 1

Acer eRecovery Management

Acer eRecovery Management is a versatile backup utility. It allows you to create

full or incremental backups, burn the factory default image to optical disc, and

restore from previously created backups or reinstall applications and drivers. By

default, user-created backups are stored to the D:\ drive.

Acer eRecovery Management provides you with:

• Backup:

• Back up factory default to CD/DVD

• Back up drivers and applications to CD/DVD

• Create user backup

• Manage user backups

• Restore:

• Restore system to factory default

• Reinstall applications/drivers

• Restore system from user backup

• Password settings

To use the password protection feature of Acer eRecovery Management to

protect your data, you must first set the Empowering Technology password. To

set the password, refer to the section "Empowering Technology password".

Chapter 1 25

Acer eSettings Management

Acer eSettings Management allows you to inspect hardware specifications, set

BIOS passwords and modify boot options.

Acer eSettings Management also:

26 Chapter 1

• Provides a simple graphical user interface for navigation.

• Prints and saves hardware specifications.

• Lets you set an asset tag for your system.

Windows Mobility Center

Chapter 1 27

The Windows Mobility Center collects key mobile-related system settings in one

easy-to-find place, so you can quickly configure your Acer system to fit the

situation as you change locations, networks or activities. Settings include display

brightness, volume, power plan, wireless networking on/off, external display

settings, synchronization status and presentation settings.

Windows Mobility Center also includes Acer-specific settings like sharing folders

overview/sharing service on or off, Bluetooth Add Device (if applicable), and a

shortcut to the Acer user guide, drivers and utilities.

To launch Windows Mobility Center:

• Use the shortcut key < > + <X>.

• Start Windows Mobility Center from the Control panel.

• Start Windows Mobility Center from the Accessories program group in the

Start menu.

• Launch Windows Mobility Center by right-clicking in the system tray

and select Windows Mobility Center.

28 Chapter 1

Using the System Utilities

NOTE: The system utilities work under Microsoft Windows XP only.

Acer GridVista (dual-display compatible)

NOTE: This feature is only available on certain models.

To enable the dual monitor feature of the notebook, first ensure that the second monitor is connected, then
select Start, Control Panel, Display and click on Settings. Select the secondary monitor (2) icon in the
display box and then click the check box Extend my windows desktop onto this monitor. Finally, click
Apply to confirm the new settings and click OK to complete the process.

Acer GridVista is a handy utility that offers four pre-defined display settings so you can view multiple windows
on the same screen. To access this function, please go to Start>All Programs and click on Acer GridVista.
You may choose any one of the four display settings indicated below:

Double (verticle), Triple (primary at left), Triple (primary at right), or Quad Acer Gridvista is dual-display
compatible, allowing two displays to be partitioned indepently.

Acer Gridvista is dual-display compatible, allowing two displays to be partitioned independently.

AcerGridVista is imple to set up:

1. Run Acer GridVista and select your preferred screen configuration for each display from the task bar.

2. Drag and drop each window into the appropriate grid.

3. Enjoy the convenience of a well-organized desktop.

Chapter 1 29

NOTE: Please ensure that the resolution setting of the second monitor is set to the manufacturer's

recommended value.

Launch Manager

Launch Manager allows you to set the four easy-launch buttons located above the keyboard. You can access

the Launch Manager by clicking on Start > All Programs > Launch Manager to start the application.

30 Chapter 1

Hardware Specifications and Configurations

Processor

Item Specification

CPU type Intel CPU Penryn

Core logic Intel 965PM/965GM + ICH8M

CPU package uFCPGA, Socket P

CPU core voltage 0.944~1.3V

Second Level Cache

Item Specification

Cache controller Built-in CPU

Cache size 6MB

1st level cache control Always enabled

2st level cache control Always enabled

Cache scheme control Fixed in write-back

System Memory

Item Specification

Memory controller Intel PM965 / Intel GM965

Memory size 0MB (no on-board memory)

DIMM socket number 2 sockets

Supports memory size per socket 2GB

Supports maximum memory size 4GB

Supports DIMM type DDR 2 Synchronous DRAM

Supports DIMM Speed 533/667 MHz

Supports DIMM voltage 1.8V and 0.9V

Supports DIMM package 200-pin soDIMM

LAN Interface

Item Specification

Chapter 1 31

Chipset ATHEROS_AR8121

Supports LAN protocol 10/100/1000 Ethernet

PCI-E Giga

LAN connector type RJ45

LAN connector location Left side

Features Integrated 10/100/1000 BASE-T transceiver

NOTE: Above table lists some system memory configurations. You may combine DIMMs with various

capacities to form other combinations. On above table, the configuration of slot 1 and slot 2 could be
reversed.

Memory Combinations

Slot 1 Slot 2 Total Memory

0MB 256MB 256MB

0MB 512MB 512MB

0MB 1024MB 1024MB

0MB 2048MB 2048MB

256MB 256MB 512MB

256MB 512MB 768MB

256MB 1024MB 1280MB

256MB 2048MB 2304MB

512MB 256MB 768MB

512MB 512MB 1024MB

512MB 1024MB 1536MB

512MB 2048MB 2560MB

1024MB 0MB 1024MB

1024MB 256MB 1280MB

1024MB 512MB 1536MB

1024MB 1024MB 2048MB

1024MB 2048MB 3072MB

2048MB 0MB 2048MB

2048MB 256MB 2304MB

2048MB 512MB 2560MB

32 Chapter 1

2048MB 1024MB 3072MB

2048MB 2048MB 4096MB

LAN Interface

Item Specification

Chipset ATHEROS_AR8121

Supports LAN protocol 10/100/1000 Ethernet

PCI-E Giga

LAN connector type RJ45

LAN connector location Left side

Features Integrated 10/100/1000 BASE-T transceiver

Modem Interface

Item Specification

Data modem data baud rate (bps) 56K

Supports modem protocol V.92

Modem connector type RJ11

Modem connector location Left side

Bluetooth Interface

Item Specification

Chipset Built-in ICH8M

Data throughput 723 bps (full speed data rate)

Protocol Bluetooth 1.1 (Upgradeable to Bluetooth 1.2 when SIG specifi-

cation is ratified).

Interface USB 2.0

Connector type USB

Item Specification

Chipset Built-in ICH8M

Data throughput 540 Mbps

Chapter 1 33

Protocol 802.11AGN

Interface PCI

Hard Disk Drive Interface

Item Specification

Vendor & Model Name HGST HTS541680J9SA00

WD WD800BEVS-22RST0 Seagate ST9120822AS

Toshiba MK1237GSX

HGST HTS541612J9SA00

WD WD1200BEVS-22RST0 TOSHIBA MK1637GSX

SEAGATE ST9160821AS

HGST HTS541616J9SA00

WD WD1600BEVS-22RST0

Capacity (MB) 80000

Bytes per sector 512

Data heads 2

4 for Toshiba and HGST 4

Drive Format

Disks 1

Spindle speed (RPM) 5400 RPM

Performance Specifications

Buffer size 8M

Interface SATA

Max. media transfer rate (disk-buffer,
Mbytes/s)

Data transfer rate (host~buffer, Mbytes/s)

Ultra DMA mode-5 100 MB/Sec.

Ultra DMA mode-5 100 MB/Sec.

Ultra DMA mode-5 100 MB/Sec.

100,150

DC Power Requirements

Voltage tolerance 5V(DC) +/- 5%

Data transfer rate (host~buffer, Mbytes/s)

34 Chapter 1

Ultra DMA mode-5 100 MB/Sec.

Ultra DMA mode-5 100 MB/Sec.

Ultra DMA mode-5 100 MB/Sec.

DC Power Requirements

Voltage tolerance 5V(DC) +/- 5%

DVD-SuperMulti Interface

Item Specification

Vendor & model name TOSHIBA 8X TS-L632D

PHILIPS 8X DS-8A1P

HLDS 8X GSA-T20N

Performance Specification With CD Diskette

Transfer rate (KB/sec) Sustained:Max 3.6Mbytes/sec

Sustained:Max 10.8Mbytes/sec

Buffer Memory 2MB

Interface Enhanced IDE(ATAPI) compatible

Applicable disc format

Support disc formats 1. Reads data in each CD-ROM, CD-ROM XA, CD-1, Video CD,

CD-Extra and CD-Plus

2. Reads data in super Audio CD (SACD) Hybrid type

3. Reads standard CD-DA

4. Reads and writes CD-R discs

5. Reads and writes CD-RW andHSRW discs

6. Reads and writes US & US+RW

7. Reads data in each DVD-ROM and DVD-Dual

8. Reads and writes in each DVD-R (Ver. 2.0 for general), DVD­RW and DVD+R/RW (Ver1.1)

9.Reads and writes DVD+-R Dual

10.Reads and writes DVD-RAM

Loading mechanism Load: Manual

Release: (a) Electrical Release (Release Button)

(b) Release by ATAPI command

(c) Emergency Release

Chapter 1 35

Power Requirement

Input Voltage 5 V +/- 5 % (Operating)

Audio Interface

Item Specification

Audio Controller Realtek ALC889X

Audio onboard or optional Built-in

Mono or Stereo Stereo

Resolution 24 bit stereo full duplex

Compatibility HD audio Interface; S/PDIF output for PCM or AC-3 content

Sampling rate 1Hz resolution VSR (Variable Sampling Rate)

Internal microphone Yes

Internal speaker / Quantity Yes/2(3W speakers)

Supports PnP DMA channel DMA channel 0

DMA channel 1

Supports PnP IRQ IRQ10, IRQ11

Video Interface

Item Specification

Chipset Acer MXM compatible

Video Memory

Item Specification

Chipset Acer MXM compatible

USB Port

Item Specification

Chipset Built-in ICH8M

USB Compliancy Level 2

OHCI USB 1.1 and USB 2.0 Host controller

Number of USB port 4

Location One on the left side; three on the right side

36 Chapter 1

Serial port function control Enable/Disable by BIOS Setup

Express Card Interface

Item Specification

Express card controller Built-in ICH8M

Supports card type 75mmx54mm(W)x5mm

Number of slots One

Access location Left Side

Interface PCI Express

System Board Major Chips

Item Controller

Core logic Intel PM965/GM965 + ICH8M

VGA Acer MXM compatible

LAN ATHEROS_AR8121

USB 2.0 Built in ICH8M

CardReader Jmicro JMB385

MODEM Foxconn T60M951

Bluetooth Foxconn T60H928.01

Wireless 802.11 a+b+g Built-in ICH8-M

Audio Realtek ALC889X

Keyboard

Item Specification

Keyboard controller ITE 8512E

Total number of keypads 88-/89-key

Windows logo key Yes

Internal & external keyboard work simul­taneously

Chapter 1 37

Plug USB keyboard to the USB port directly: Yes

Battery

Item Specification

Vendor & model name BATTERY PACK SANYO LI-ION 8 CELL2.4, 4800MAH

BATTRY PACK SONY LI-ION 8CELL2.4, 4800MAH

Battery Type Li-ion

Pack capacity 4800 mAH

Number of battery cell 8

Package configuration 4 cells in series, 2 series in parallel

Normal voltage 14.8V

Charge voltage 16.8+-0.2V

LCD 16.0" inch

Item Specification

Vendor & model name Samsung LTN160AT01-A01

Screen Diagonal (mm) 16.0 inches

Active Area (mm) 353.45(H) x 198.72(V) mm

Display resolution (pixels) 1366x768 WXGA

Pixel Pitch 0.25875 (H) x 0.25875(V) mm

Pixel Arrangement R.G.B. Vertical Stripe

Display Mode Normally White

Typical White Luminance (cd/m2)

also called Brightness 300

Luminance Uniformity N/A

Contrast Ratio 600

Response Time (Optical Rise Time/Fall
Time)msec

Nominal Input Voltage VDD +3.3V

Typical Power Consumption (watt) 4.5W

Weight(g) 550g

8

Physical Size(mm) 365x214x6.5

Electrical Interface Dual channel LVDS

38 Chapter 1

Support Color 262,144

Viewing Angle (degree)

Horizontal: Right/Left 65/65

Vertial: Upper/Lower 50/50

Temperature Range(C)

Operating

Storage (shipping)

0 to +50 / -20 to +60

LCD Inverter

Item Specification

Vendor & model name TDK

Brightness conditions N/A

Input voltage (V) 9~20V

Input current (mA) 360mA (max)

Output voltage (V, rms) 710V (1800V for kick off)

Output current (mA, rms) 6.5mA (max)

Output voltage frequency (k Hz) 58 KHz (max)

AC Adaptor

Item Specification

Input rating 100V AC to 240V AC, 47Hz to 63Hz

Maximum input AC current 1.5A

Inrush current 50A@115VAC

100A@230VAC

Efficiency 85% min. @115VAC input full load

System Power Management

ACPI mode Power Management

Chapter 1 39

Mech. Off (G3) All devices in the system are turned off completely.

Soft Off (G2/S5) OS initiated shutdown. All devices in the system are turned off

completely.

Working (G0/S0) Individual devices such as the CPU and hard disc may be power

managed in this state.

Suspend to RAM (S3) CPU set power down

VGA Suspend

PCMCIA Suspend

Audio Power Down

Hard Disk Power Down

CD-ROM Power Down

Super I/O Low Power mode

Save to Disk (S4) Also called Hibernation Mode. System saves all system states

and data onto the disc prior to power off the whole system.

40 Chapter 1

System Utilities

BIOS Setup Utility

The BIOS Setup Utility is a hardware configuration program built into your computer’s BIOS (Basic Input/
Output System).

Your computer is already properly configured and optimized, and you do not need to run this utility. However, if
you encounter configuration problems, you may need to run Setup. Please also refer to Chapter 4
Troubleshooting when problem arises.

Chapter 2

To activate the BIOS Utility, press

m during POST (when “Press <F2> to enter Setup” message is prompted

on the bottom of screen).

Press m to enter setup. The default parameter of F12 Boot Menu is set to “disabled”. If you want to change
boot device without entering BIOS Setup Utility, please set the parameter to “enabled”.

Press <F12> during POST to enter multi-boot menu. In this menu, user can change boot device without
entering BIOS SETUP Utility.

Chapter 2 47

Invoking BIOS Setup

The setup function can only be invoked by pressing F2 when Press <F2> to enter Setup message is
prompted on the bottom of screen during POST.

The setup uses a menu driven interface to allow the user to configure their system. The features are divided
into 6 parts as follows:

Information Display the system informations.

Main Allows the user to specify standard IBM PC AT system parameters.

Advanced Provides advanced settings of the system.

Security Provides security settings of the system.

Boot Allows the user to specify the boot options.

Exit Allows the user to save CMOS setting and exit Setup.

NOTE: You can change the value of a parameter if it is enclosed in square brackets. Navigation keys for a

particular menu are shown on the bottom of the screen. Help for parameters are found in the Item
Specific Help part of the screen. Read this carefully when making changes to parameter values.

NOTE: Please note that system information is subject to different models.

48 Chapter 2

Information

NOTE: The system information is subject to different models.

Parameter Description

CPU Type This field shows the CPU type and speed of the system.

IDE1 Model Name This field shows the model name of HDD installed on primary IDE master.

IDE1 Serial Number This field displays the serial number of HDD installed on primary IDE master.

IDE2I Model Name This field displays the mofel name of devices installed on secondary IDE master. The hard

disk drive or optical drive model name is automatically detected by the system.

IDE2 Serial Number This field shows the serial number of devices installed on secondary IDE master.

System BIOS ver Displays system BIOS version.

VGA BIOS Ver This field displays the VGA firmware version of the system.

KBC Ver This field shows the keyboard

Serial Number This field displays the serial number of this unit.

Asset Tag Number This field displays the asset tag number of the system.

Product Name This field shows product name of the system.

Manufacturer Name This field displays the manufacturer of this system.

Chapter 2 49

Parameter Description

UUID Number This will be visible only when an internal LAN device is presenting.

UUID=32bytes

50 Chapter 2

Main

The Main screen displays a summary of your computer hardware information, and also includes basic setup
parameters. It allows the user to specify standard IBM PC AT system parameters.

NOTE: The screen above is for your reference only. Actual values may differ.

Chapter 2 51

The table below describes the parameters in this screen. Settings in boldface are the default and suggested
parameter settings.

Parameter Description Format/Option

System Time Sets the system time. The hours are displayed

with 24-hour format.

System Date Sets the system date. Format MM/DD/YYYY (month/day/

System Memory This field reports the memory size of the system.

Memory size is fixed to 640MB

Extended Memory This field reports the memory size of the

extended memory in the system.

Extended Memory size=Total memory size-1MB

VGA Memory Shows the VGA memory size. VGA Memory

size=64/128MB

Quiet Boot Determines if Customer Logo will be displayed or

not; shows Summary Screen is disabled or
enabled.

Enabled: Customer Logo is displayed, and
Summary Screen is disabled.

Disabled: Customer Logo is not displayed, and
Summary Screen is enabled.

Network Boot Enables, disables the system boot from LAN

(remote server).

F12 Boot Menu Enables, disables Boot Menu during POST.

D2D Recovery Enables, disables D2D Recovery function. The

function allows the user to create a hidden
partition on hard disc drive to store operation
system and restore the system to factory
defaults.

Format: HH:MM:SS
(hour:minute:second) System Time

year)

System Date

Enabled or Disabled

Option:

Enabled or Disabled

Option:

Disabled or Enabled

Option:

Enabled or Disabled

Option:

NOTE: The sub-items under each device will not be shown if the device control is set to disable or auto. This is

because the user is not allowed to control the settings in these cases.

52 Chapter 2

Advanced

The Advanced screen displays advanced settings in BIOS.

The table below describes the parameters in this screen. Settings in boldface are the default and suggested
parameter settings.

Parameter Description Option

Serial port Displays the settings of the serial port

Parallel port Shows the settings of the parallel port

Chapter 2 53

Enabled or Disabled

Enabled or Disabled

Security

The Security screen contains parameters that help safeguard and protect your computer from unauthorized
use.

54 Chapter 2

The table below describes the parameters in this screen. Settings in boldface are the default and suggested
parameter settings.

Parameter Description Option

User Password is Shows the setting of the user password.

Supervisor Password is Shows the setting of the Supervisor password

Set User Password Press Enter to set the user password. When

user password is set, this password protects
the BIOS Setup Utility from unauthorized
access. The user can enter Setup menu only
and does not have right to change the value of
parameters.

Set Supervisor Password Press Enter to set the supervisor password.

When set, this password protects the BIOS
Setup Utility from unauthorized access. The
user can not either enter the Setup menu nor
change the value of parameters.

HardDisk Security Enables or disables primary hard disk security

function.

Password on Boot Defines whether a password is required or not

while the events defined in this group
happened. The following sub-options are all
requires the Supervisor password for changes
and should be grayed out if the user password
was used to enter setup.

Clear or Set

Clear or Set

Disabled or Enabled

NOTE: When you are prompted to enter a password, you have three tries before the system halts. Don’t forget

your password. If you forget your password, you may have to return your notebook computer to your
dealer to reset it.

Setting a Password

Follow these steps as you set the user or the supervisor password:

1. Use the w andy keys to highlight the Set Supervisor Password parameter and press the e key. The Set
Supervisor Password box appears:

2. Type a password in the “Enter New Password” field. The password length can not exceeds 8
alphanumeric characters (A-Z, a-z, 0-9, not case sensitive). Retype the password in the “Confirm New
Password” field.

IMPORTANT:Be very careful when typing your password because the characters do not appear on the screen.

3. Press e.

After setting the password, the computer sets the User Password parameter to “Set”.

4. If desired, you can opt to enable the Password on boot parameter.

5. When you are done, press u to save the changes and exit the BIOS Setup Utility.

Removing a Password

Follow these steps:

Chapter 2 55

1. Use the w and y keys to highlight the Set Supervisor Password parameter and press the e key. The Set
Password box appears:

2. Type the current password in the Enter Current Password field and press e.

3. Press e twice without typing anything in the Enter New Password and Confirm New Password fields. The

computer then sets the Supervisor Password parameter to “Clear”.

4. When you have changed the settings, press u to save the changes and exit the BIOS Setup Utility.

Changing a Password

1. Use the w and y keys to highlight the Set Supervisor Password parameter and press the e key. The Set
Password box appears:

2. Type the current password in the Enter Current Password field and press e.

3. Type a password in the Enter New Password field. Retype the password in the Confirm New Password

field.

4. Press e. After setting the password, the computer sets the User Password parameter to “Set”.

5. If desired, you can enable the Password on boot parameter.

6. When you are done, press u to save the changes and exit the BIOS Setup Utility.

If the verification is OK, the screen will display as following.

The password setting is complete after the user presses u.

If the current password entered does not match the actual current password, the screen will show you the
Setup Warning.

56 Chapter 2

If the new password and confirm new password strings do not match, the screen will display the following
message.

Chapter 2 57

Boot

This menu allows the user to decide the order of boot devices to load the operating system. Bootable devices
includes the distette drive in module bay, the onboard hard disk drive and the CD-ROM in module bay.

58 Chapter 2

Exit

The Exit screen contains parameters that help safeguard and protect your computer from unauthorized use.

The table below describes the parameters in this screen.

Parameter Description

Exit Saving Changes Exit System Setup and save your changes to CMOS.

Exit Discarding Changes Exit utility without saving setup data to CMOS.

Load Setup Default Load default values for all SETUP item.

Discard Changes Load previous values from CMOS for all SETUP items.

Save Changes Save Setup Data to CMOS.

Chapter 2 59

BIOS Flash Utility

The BIOS flash memory update is required for the following conditions:

New versions of system programs

New features or options

Restore a BIOS when it becomes corrupted.

Use the Phlash utility to update the system BIOS flash ROM.

NOTE: If you do not have a crisis recovery diskette at hand, then you should create a Crisis Recovery

Diskette before you use the Phlash utility.

NOTE: Do not install memory-related drivers (XMS, EMS, DPMI) when you use the Phlash.

NOTE: Please use the AC adaptor power supply when you run the Phlash utility. If the battery pack does not

contain enough power to finish BIOS flash, you may not boot the system because the BIOS is not
completely loaded.

Fellow the steps below to run the Phlash.

1. Prepare a bootable diskette.

2. Copy the flash utilities to the bootable diskette.

3. Then boot the system from the bootable diskette. The flash utility has auto-execution function.

60 Chapter 2

Remove HDD password Utility

This section provide you with removing HDD password method:

Remove HDD Password:

If you key in wrong HDD password for three time, “HDD password error code” would display on the screen.
See the image below.

If you need to solve HDD password locked problem, you can run unlock6.EXE

1.

Key in “unlock6 error code 205”

2. Select “2”

3. Choose one HDD password

Reboot system and key in “R6PI11X” or “MI8N4KK” to HDD user password.

Chapter 2 61

Then the HDD password will be unlocked and will auto into Windows after reboot.

62 Chapter 2

Machine Disassembly and Replacement

This chapter contains step-by-step procedures on how to disassemble the notebook computer Aspire 6920 for
maintenance and troubleshooting.

To disassemble the computer, you need the following tools:

Wrist grounding strap and conductive mat for preventing electrostatic discharge

Small Philips screw driver

hilips screwdriver

Plastic flat head screw driver

Tweezers

NOTE: The screws for the different components vary in size. During the disassembly process, group the

screws with the corresponding components to avoid mismatch when putting back the components.
When you remove the stripe cover, please be careful not to scrape the cover.

Chapter 3

Chapter 3 61

General Information

Before You Begin

Before proceeding with the disassembly procedure, make sure that you do the following:

1. Turn off the power to the system and all peripherals.

2. Unplug the AC adapter and all power and signal cables from the system.

3. Remove the battery pack.

62 Chapter 3

Disassembly Procedure Flowchart

The flowchart on the succeeding page gives you a graphic representation on the entire disassembly sequence
and instructs you on the components that need to be removed during servicing. For example, if you want to
remove the system board, you must first remove the keyboard, then disassemble the inside assembly frame in
that order.

Chapter 3 63

64 Chapter 3

Removing the Battery Pack

1. Release the battery.

2. Slide the battery latch then remove the battery.

Chapter 3 65

Removing the HDD/Memory Module/Wireless LAN Card/TV Tuner Card/ System Fan/Thermal Modules/CPU

Removing the HDD

1. Remove the six screws fastening the CTO cover

2. Detach the CTO cover from the notebook.

Removing the Wireless Cover & RAM Module

3. Remove one screw to release the Wireless cover

4. Remove the Wireless cover from the notebook.

5. Pop out the memory module from the DIMM socket then remove it (If the notebook has two memory

modules, then repeat this step).

Removing the Wireless LAN Card/TV Tunder Card and System Fan

6. Pull out the Wireless antenna.

7. Remove the two screws fastening the wireless LAN card.

66 Chapter 3

8. Disconnect the main and auxiliary antennae from the wireless LAN card.

9. Then take out the wireless LAN card from the main unit.

10. Loose two screws from the TV card.

11. Remove the TV card from the machine.

12. Remove the two screws from the Wireless card.

13. Remove the Wireless card from the machine.

14. Remove HDD module as shown.

15. Unplug power cable from the machine.

16. Remove FAN cable from the machine.

17. Loose the FAN screw.

18. Take out the system fan from the main unit as shown.

Chapter 3 67

Removing the Thermal Modules and the CPU

19. Remove the two screws holding the finger heatsink.

20. Detach the finger heatsink from the main board.

21. Then take out the CPU heatsink from the main board.

22. Use a flat screwdriver to release the CPU lock (Turn counter clock-wise) then remove the CPU carefully.

23. Remove the Express dummy card.

24. Remove the card reader dummy.

68 Chapter 3

Removing the ODD and Dummy cards

25. Remove the screw fastening the optical disk drive module on the bottom.

26. Use a tool to push the optical disk drive module outwards and remove the ODD module

Removing the Hinge cover

27. Remove two hinge cover screws.

28. Then detach the Hinge cover from both side.

Chapter 3 69

Removing the BTCB screws

29. Loose 21 screws from BTCB.

30. Detach Switch cover.

31. Disconnect Media board FFC from the Switch cover

70 Chapter 3

Disassembling the Main Unit

1. Turn over the keyboard as the image shows.

2. Disconnect the Keyboard FFC from the main board

3. Then remove the keyboard from the main unit.

4. Remove the 18 screws fastening the upper case and the lower case assembly as shown.

5. Disconnect the FFC from the main board.

6. Loose two screws from the TPCB.

7. Disconnect the LCM cable.

8. Pull out the Power cable.

9. Pull out the Wireless antenna.

10. Release four TPCB locker then remove the TCB from machine.

Chapter 3 71

Disassembling the LED boards

11. Loose the LED boards four screws.

12. Remove two LED boards from the machine.

13. Loose four LCM hinge screws.

14. Then remove LCM module from the machine.

72 Chapter 3

Remove I/O baord and Main Board.

15. Loose the daughter board screw then remove the daughter board from the machine.

16. Disconnect four cables on the M/B as shown.

17. Loose the M/B screw, remove RJ11 connector from the BTCB.

18. Remove M/B from the BTCB.

Chapter 3 73

19. Disconnect LED/B cable and USB/B FFC.

20. Remove the USB board from BTCB..

21. Loose two Modem card screws.

22. Disconnect Modem card cable.

23. Remove Modem card from the M/B.

Disassembly LCM module

1. Remove six LCM bezel mylar.

2. Loose 11 LCM bezel screws.

3. Remove LCM bezel.

4. Disconnect Inverter cable and Back LED board cable.

5. Disconnect CCD cable..

6. Loose four LCD scrws from the hinge.

7. Remove the LCD panel.

74 Chapter 3

8. Remove the Inverter board.

9. Loose four LCD hinge screws, then remove two hinges from LCD panel.

Chapter 3 75

Disassembling the External Modules

Disassembling the HDD Module

1. Remove the four screws holding the HDD (hard disk drive) foil; two on each side.

2. Carefully take out the hard disk drive from the HDD foil.

Disassembling the ODD Module

1. Remove the two screws holding the optical bracket.

2. Then remove the optical bracket from the optical disk drive.

76 Chapter 3

Troubleshooting

Use the following procedure as a guide for computer problems.

NOTE: The diagnostic tests are intended to test only Acer products. Non-Acer products, prototype cards, or

modified options can give false errors and invalid system responses.

1. Obtain the failing symptoms in as much detail as possible.

2. Verify the symptoms by attempting to re-create the failure by running the diagnostic test or by repeating

the same operation.

3. Use the following table with the verified symptom to determine which page to go to.

Symptoms (Verified) Go To

Power failure. (The power indicator does not go
on or stay on.)

POST does not complete. No beep or error
codes are indicated.

POST detects an error and displayed messages
on screen.

Other symptoms (i.e. LCD display problems or
others).

Symptoms cannot be re-created (intermittent
problems).

“Power System Check” on page 81.

“Power-On Self-Test (POST) Error Message” on
page 84

“Undetermined Problems” on page 96

“Error Message List” on page 85

“Power-On Self-Test (POST) Error Message” on
page 84

Use the customer-reported symptoms and go to
“Power-On Self-Test (POST) Error Message” on
page 84

“Intermittent Problems” on page 95

“Undetermined Problems” on page 96

Chapter 4

Chapter 4 79

System Check Procedures

External Diskette Drive Check

Do the following to isolate the problem to a controller, driver, or diskette. A write-enabled, diagnostic diskette is
required.

NOTE: Make sure that the diskette does not have more than one label attached to it. Multiple labels can cause

damage to the drive or cause the drive to fail.

Do the following to select the test device.

1. Boot from the diagnostics diskette and start the diagnostics program.

2. See if FDD Test is passed as the program runs to FDD Test.

3. Follow the instructions in the message window.

If an error occurs with the internal diskette drive, reconnect the diskette connector on the system board.

If the error still remains:

1. Reconnect the external diskette drive/DVD-ROM module.

2. Replace the external diskette drive/CD-ROM module.

3. Replace the main board.

External CD-ROM Drive Check

Do the following to isolate the problem to a controller, drive, or CD-ROM. Make sure that the CD-ROM does
not have any label attached to it. The label can cause damage to the drive or can cause the drive to fail.

Do the following to select the test device:

1. Boot from the diagnostics diskette and start the diagnostics program.

2. See if CD-ROM Test is passed when the program runs to CD-ROM Test.

3. Follow the instructions in the message window.

If an error occurs, reconnect the connector on the System board. If the error still remains:

1. Reconnect the external diskette drive/CD-ROM module.

2. Replace the external diskette drive/CD-ROM module.

3. Replace the main board.

Keyboard or Auxiliary Input Device Check

Remove the external keyboard if the internal keyboard is to be tested.

If the internal keyboard does not work or an unexpected character appears, make sure that the flexible cable
extending from the keyboard is correctly seated in the connector on the system board.

If the keyboard cable connection is correct, run the Keyboard Test.

If the tests detect a keyboard problem, do the following one at a time to correct the problem. Do not replace a
non-defective FRU:

1. Reconnect the keyboard cables.

2. Replace the keyboard.

3. Replace the main board.

The following auxiliary input devices are supported by this computer:

Numeric keypad

External keyboard

80 Chapter 4

If any of these devices do not work, reconnect the cable connector and repeat the failing operation.

Memory check

Memory errors might stop system operations, show error messages on the screen, or hang the system.

1. Boot from the diagnostics diskette and start the doagmpstotics program (please refer to main board.

2. Go to the diagnostic memory in the test items.

3. Press F2 in the test items.

4. Follow the instructions in the message window.

NOTE: Make sure that the DIMM is fully installed into the connector. A loose connection can cause an error.

Power System Check

To verify the symptom of the problem, power on the computer using each of the following power sources:

1. Remove the battery pack.

2. Connect the power adapter and check that power is supplied.

3. Disconnect the power adapter and install the charged battery pack; then check that power is supplied by

the battery pack.

If you suspect a power problem, see the appropriate power supply check in the following list:

“Check the Power Adapter” on page 82

“Check the Battery Pack” on page 83

Chapter 4 81

Check the Power Adapter

Unplug the power adapter cable from the computer and measure the output voltage at the plug of the power
adapter cable. See the following figure

Pin 1: +19 to +20.5V
Pin 2: 0V, Ground

1. If the voltage is not correct, replace the power adapter.

2. If the voltage is within the range, do the following:

Replace the System board.

If the problem is not corrected, see “Undetermined Problems” on page 96.

If the voltage is not correct, go to the next step.

NOTE: An audible noise from the power adapter does not always indicate a defect.

3. If the power-on indicator does not light up, check the power cord of the power adapter for correct

continuity and installation.

4. If the operational charge does not work, see “Check the Battery Pack” on page 83.

82 Chapter 4

Check the Battery Pack

To check the battery pack, do the following:

From Software:

1. Check out the Power Management in control Panel

2. In Power Meter, confirm that if the parameters shown in the screen for Current Power Source and Total

Battery Power Remaining are correct.

3. Repeat the steps 1 and 2, for both battery and adapter.

4. This helps you identify first the problem is on recharging or discharging.

From Hardware:

1. Power off the computer.

2. Remove the battery pack and measure the voltage between battery terminals 1(+) and 6(ground). See the

following figure

3. If the voltage is still less than 7.5 Vdc after recharging, replace the battery.

To check the battery charge operation, use a discharged battery pack or a battery pack that has less than 50%
of the total power remaining when installed in the computer.

If the battery status indicator does not light up, remove the battery pack and let it return to room temperature.
Re-install the battery pack.

If the charge indicator still does not light up, replace the battery pack. If the charge indicator still does not light
up, replace the DC/DC charger board.

Touchpad Check

If the touchpad doesn’t work, do the following actions one at a time to correct the problem. Do not replace a
non-defective FRU:

1. Reconnect the touchpad cables.

2. Replace the touchpad.

3. Replace the system board.

After you use the touchpad, the pointer drifts on the screen for a short time. This self-acting pointer movement
can occur when a slight, steady pressure is applied to the touchpad pointer. This symptom is not a hardware
problem. No service actions are necessary if the pointer movement stops in a short period of time.

Chapter 4 83

Power-On Self-Test (POST) Error Message

The POST error message index lists the error message and their possible causes. The most likely cause is
listed first.

NOTE: Perform the FRU replacement or actions in the sequence shown in FRU/Action column, if the FRU

replacement does not solve the problem, put the original part back in the computer. Do not replace a
non-defective FRU.

This index can also help you determine the next possible FRU to be replaced when servicing a computer.

If the symptom is not listed, see “Undetermined Problems” on page 96.

The following lists the error messages that the BIOS displays on the screen and the error symptoms classified
by function.

NOTE: Most of the error messages occur during POST. Some of them display information about a hardware

device, e.g., the amount of memory installed. Others may indicate a problem with a device, such as the
way it has been configured.

NOTE: If the system fails after you make changes in the BIOS Setup Utility menus, reset the computer, enter

Setup and install Setup defaults or correct the error.

84 Chapter 4

Index of Error Messages

Error Code List

Error Codes Error Messages

006 Equipment Configuration Error

Causes:

1. CPU BIOS Update Code Mismatch

2. IDE Primary Channel Master Drive Error

(THe causes will be shown before “Equipment Configuration
Error”)

010 Memory Error at xxxx:xxxx:xxxxh (R:xxxxh, W:xxxxh)

070 Real Time Clock Error

071 CMOS Battery Bad

072 CMOS Checksum Error

110 System disabled.

Incorrect password is specified.

<No error code> Battery critical LOW

In this situation BIOS will issue 4 short beeps then shut down
system, no message will show.

<No error code> Thermal critical High

In this situation BIOS will shut down system, not show message.

Error Message List

Error Messages FRU/Action in Sequence

Failure Fixed Disk Reconnect hard disk drive connector.

“Load Default Settings” in BIOS Setup Utility.

Hard disk drive

System board

Stuck Key see “Keyboard or Auxiliary Input Device Check” on page 80.

Keyboard error see “Keyboard or Auxiliary Input Device Check” on page 80.

Keyboard Controller Failed see “Keyboard or Auxiliary Input Device Check” on page 80.

Keyboard locked - Unlock key switch Unlock external keyboard

Monitor type does not match CMOS - Run Setup Run “Load Default Settings” in BIOS Setup Utility.

Shadow RAM Failed at offset: nnnn BIOS ROM

System board

System RAM Failed at offset: nnnn DIMM

System board

Extended RAM Failed at offset: nnnn DIMM

System board

System battery is dead - Replace and run Setup Replace RTC battery and Run BIOS Setup Utility to reconfigure

system time, then reboot system.

System CMOS checksum bad - Default
configuration used

System timer error RTC battery

RTC battery

Run BIOS Setup Utility to reconfigure system time, then reboot
system.

Run BIOS Setup Utility to reconfigure system time, then reboot
system.

System board

Chapter 4 85

Error Message List

Error Messages FRU/Action in Sequence

Real time clock error RTC battery

Run BIOS Setup Utility to reconfigure system time, then reboot
system.

System board

Previous boot incomplete - Default configuration
used

Memory size found by POST differed from
CMOS

Diskette drive A error Check the drive is defined with the proper diskette type in BIOS

Incorrect Drive A type - run SETUP Check the drive is defined with the proper diskette type in BIOS

System cache error - Cache disabled System board

CPU ID: System board

DMA Test Failed DIMM

Software NMI Failed DIMM

Fail-Safe Timer NMI Failed DIMM

Device Address Conflict Run “Load Default Settings” in BIOS Setup Utility.

Allocation Error for device Run “Load Default Settings” in BIOS Setup Utility.

Failing Bits: nnnn DIMM

Fixed Disk n None

Invalid System Configuration Data BIOS ROM

I/O device IRQ conflict Run “Load Default Settings” in BIOS Setup Utility.

Operating system not found Enter Setup and see if fixed disk and drive A: are properly identified.

Run “Load Default Settings” in BIOS Setup Utility.

RTC battery

System board

Run “Load Default Settings” in BIOS Setup Utility.

DIMM

System board

Setup Utility

See “External Diskette Drive Check” on page 80.

Setup Utility

System board

System board

System board

RTC battery

System board

RTC battery

System board

BIOS ROM

System board

System board

RTC battery

System board

Diskette drive

Hard disk drive

System board

86 Chapter 4

Error Message List

No beep Error Messages FRU/Action in Sequence

No beep, power-on indicator turns off and LCD is
blank.

No beep, power-on indicator turns on and LCD is
blank.

No beep, power-on indicator turns on and LCD is
blank. But you can see POST on an external
CRT.

No beep, power-on indicator turns on and a
blinking cursor shown on LCD during POST.

No beep during POST but system runs correctly. Speaker

Power source (battery pack and power adapter). See “Power
System Check” on page 81..

Ensure every connector is connected tightly and correctly.

Reconnect the DIMM.

LED board.

System board.

Power source (battery pack and power adapter). See “Power
System Check” on page 81..

Reconnect the LCD connector

Hard disk drive

LCD inverter ID

LCD cable

LCD Inverter

LCD

System board

Reconnect the LCD connectors.

LCD inverter ID

LCD cable

LCD inverter

LCD

System board

Ensure every connector is connected tightly and correctly.

System board

System board

Chapter 4 87

Phoenix BIOS Beep Codes

Code Beeps POST Routine Description

02h Verify Real Mode

03h Disable Non-Maskable Interrupt (NMI)

04h Get CPU type

06h Initialize system hardware

08h Initialize chipset with initial POST values

09h Set IN POST flag

0Ah Initialize CPU registers

0Bh Enable CPU cache

0Ch Initialize caches to initial POST values

0Eh Initialize I/O component

0Fh Initialize the local bus IDE

10h Initialize Power Management

11h Load alternate registers with initial POST

12h Restore CPU control word during warm boot

13h Initialize PCI Bus Mastering devices

14h Initialize keyboard controller

16h 1-2-2-3 BIOS ROM checksum

17h Initialize cache before memory autosize

18h 8254 timer initialization

1Ah 8237 DMA controller initialization

1Ch Reset Programmable Interrupt Controller

20h 1-3-1-1 Test DRAM refresh

22h 1-3-1-3 Test 8742 Keyboard Controller

24h Set ES segment register to 4 GB

26h Enable A20 line

28h Autosize DRAM

29h Initialize POST Memory Manager

2Ah Clear 215 KB base RAM

2Ch 1-3-4-1 RAM failure on address line xxxx

2Eh 1-3-4-3 RAM failure on data bits xxxx of low byte of

2Fh Enable cache before system BIOS shadow

30h 1-4-1-1 RAM failure on data bits xxxx of high byte of

32h Test CPU bus-clock frequency

33h Initialize Phoenix Dispatch Manager

36h Warm start shut down

38h Shadow system BIOS ROM

3Ah Autosize cache

3Ch Advanced configuration of chipset registers

3Dh Load alternate registers with CMOS values

42h Initialize interrupt vectors

45h POST device initialization

values

memory bus

memory bus

88 Chapter 4

Code Beeps POST Routine Description

46h 2-1-2-3 Check ROM copyright notice

48h Check video configuration against CMOS

49h Initialize PCI bus and devices

4Ah Initialize all video adapters in system

4Bh QuietBoot start (optional)

4Ch Shadow video BIOS ROM

4Eh Display BIOS copyright notice

50h Display CPU type and speed

51h Initialize EISA board

52h Test keyboard

54h Set key click if enabled

58h 2-2-3-1 Test for unexpected interrupts

59h Initialize POST display service

5Ah Display prompt “Press F2 to enter SETUP”

5Bh Disable CPU cache

5Ch Test RAM between 512 and 640 KB

60h Test extended memory

62h Test extended memory address lines

64h Jump to User Patch1

66h Configure advanced cache registers

67h Initialize Multi Processor APIC

68h Enable external and CPU caches

69h Setup System Management Mode (SMM) area

6Ah Display external L2 cache size

6Bh Load custom defaults (optional)

6Ch Display shadow-area message

6Eh Display possible high address for UMB

70h Display error messages

72h Check for configuration errors

76h Check for keyboard errors

7Ch Set up hardware interrupt vectors

7Eh Initialize coprocessor if present

80h Disable onboard Super I/O ports and IRQs

81h Late POST device initialization

82h Detect and install external RS232 ports

83h Configure non-MCD IDE controllers

84h Detect and install external parallel ports

85h Initialize PC-compatible PnP ISA devices

86h Re-initialize onboard I/O ports

87h Configure Motherboard Configurable Devices

88h Initialize BIOS Area

89h Enable Non-Maskable Interrupts (NMIs)

8Ah Initialize Extended BIOS Data Area

8Bh Test and initialize PS/2 mouse

recovery

(optional)

Chapter 4 89

Code Beeps POST Routine Description

8Ch Initialize floppy controller

8Fh Determine number of ATA drives (optional)

90h Initialize hard-disk controllers

91h Initialize local-bus hard-disk controllers

92h Jump to UserPatch2

93h Build MPTABLE for multi-processor boards

95h Install CD ROM for boot

96h Clear huge ES segment register

97h Fixup Multi Processor table

98h 1-2 Search for option ROMs. One long, two short

99h Check for SMART drive (optional)

9Ah Shadow option ROMs

9Ch Set up Power Management

9Dh Initialize security engine (optional)

9Eh Enable hardware interrupts

9Fh Determine number of ATA and SCSI drives

A0h Set time of day

A2h Check key lock

A4h Initialize Typematic rate

A8h Erase F2 prompt

AAh Scan for F2 key stroke

ACh Enter SETUP

AEh Clear Boot flag

B0h Check for errors

B2h POST done- prepare to boot operating system

B4h 1 One short beep before boot

B5h Terminate QuietBoot (optional)

B6h Check password (optional)

B9h Prepare Boot

BAh Initialize DMI parameters

BBh Initialize PnP Option ROMs

BCh Clear parity checkers

BDh Display MultiBoot menu

BEh Clear screen (optional)

BFh Check virus and backup reminders

C0h Try to boot with INT 19

C1h Initialize POST Error Manager (PEM)

C2h Initialize error logging

C3h Initialize error display function

C4h Initialize system error handler

C5h PnPnd dual CMOS (optional)

C6h Initialize notebook docking (optional)

C7h Initialize notebook docking late

C8h Force check (optional)

C9h Extended checksum (optional)

beeps on checksum failure.

90 Chapter 4

Code Beeps POST Routine Description

D2h Unknown interrupt

Code Beeps

E0h Initialize the chipset

E1h Initialize the bridge

E2h Initialize the CPU

E3h Initialize the system timer

E4h Initialize system I/O

E5h Check force recovery boot

E6h Checksum BIOS ROM

E7h Go to BIOS

E8h Set Huge Segment

E9h Initialize Multi Processor

EAh Initialize OEM special code

EBh Initialize PIC and DMA

ECh Initialize Memory type

EDh Initialize Memory size

EEh Shadow Boot Block

EFh System memory test

F0h Initialize interrupt vectors

F1h Initialize Run Time Clock

F2h Initialize video

F3h Initialize System Management Mode

F4h 1 Output one beep before boot

F5h Boot to Mini DOS

F6h Clear Huge Segment

F7h Boot to Full DOS

Chapter 4 91

Index of Symptom-to-FRU Error Message

LCD-Related Symptoms

Symptom / Error Action in Sequence

LCD backlight doesn't work

LCD is too dark

LCD brightness cannot be adjusted

LCD contrast cannot be adjusted

Unreadable LCD screen

Missing pels in characters

Abnormal screen

Wrong color displayed

LCD has extra horizontal or vertical lines
displayed.

Enter BIOS Utility to execute “Load Setup Default Settings”, then
reboot system.

Reconnect the LCD connectors.

Keyboard (if contrast and brightness function key doesn't work).

LCD inverter ID

LCD cable

LCD inverter

LCD

System board

Reconnect the LCD connector

LCD inverter ID

LCD cable

LCD inverter

LCD

System board

LCD inverter ID

LCD inverter

LCD cable

LCD

System board

Indicator-Related Symptoms

Symptom / Error Action in Sequence

Indicator incorrectly remains off or on, but system
runs correctly

Reconnect the inverter board

Inverter board

System board

Power-Related Symptoms

Symptom / Error Action in Sequence

Power shuts down during operation Power source (battery pack and power adapter). See “Power

System Check” on page 81.

Battery pack

Power adapter

Hard drive & battery connection board

System board

The system doesn’t power-on. Power source (battery pack and power adapter). See “Power

System Check” on page 81.

Battery pack

Power adapter

Hard drive & battery connection board

System board

The system doesn’t power-off. Power source (battery pack and power adapter). See “Power

System Check” on page 81.

Hold and press the power switch for more than 4 seconds.

System board

92 Chapter 4

Power-Related Symptoms

Symptom / Error Action in Sequence

Battery can’t be charged See “Check the Battery Pack” on page 83.

Battery pack

System board

PCMCIA-Related Symptoms

Symptom / Error Action in Sequence

System cannot detect the PC Card (PCMCIA) PCMCIA slot assembly

System board

PCMCIA slot pin is damaged. PCMCIA slot assembly

Memory-Related Symptoms

Symptom / Error Action in Sequence

Memory count (size) appears different from
actual size.

Enter BIOS Setup Utility to execute “Load Default Settings, then
reboot system.

DIMM

System board

Speaker-Related Symptoms

Symptom / Error Action in Sequence

In Windows, multimedia programs, no sound
comes from the computer.

Internal speakers make noise or emit no sound. Speaker

Audio driver

Speaker

System board

System board

Power Management-Related Symptoms

Symptom / Error Action in Sequence

The system will not enter hibernation See “Save to Disk (S4)” on page 45.

Keyboard (if control is from the keyboard)

Hard disk drive

System board

The system doesn't enter hibernation mode and
four short beeps every minute.

The system doesn’t enter standby mode after
closing the LCD

The system doesn't resume from hibernation
mode.

The system doesn't resume from standby mode
after opening the LCD.

Press Fn+

Touchpad

Keyboard

Hard disk connection board

Hard disk drive

System board

See “Save to Disk (S4)” on page 45.

LCD cover switch

System board

See “Save to Disk (S4)” on page 45.

Hard disk connection board

Hard disk drive

System board

See “Save to Disk (S4)” on page 45.

LCD cover switch

System board

oand see if the computer enters hibernation mode.

Chapter 4 93

Power Management-Related Symptoms

Symptom / Error Action in Sequence

Battery fuel gauge in Windows doesn’t go higher
than 90%.

System hangs intermittently. Reconnect hard disk/CD-ROM drives.

Remove battery pack and let it cool for 2 hours.

Refresh battery (continue use battery until power off, then charge
battery).

Battery pack

System board

Hard disk connection board

System board

Peripheral-Related Symptoms

Symptom / Error Action in Sequence

System configuration does not match the
installed devices.

External display does not work correctly. Press Fn+F5, LCD/CRT/Both display switching

USB does not work correctly System board

Print problems. Ensure the “Parallel Port” in the “Onboard Devices Configuration” of

Serial or parallel port device problems. Ensure the “Serial Port” in the Devices Configuration” of BIOS Setup

Enter BIOS Setup Utility to execute “Load Default Settings”, then
reboot system.

Reconnect hard disk/CD-ROM/diskette drives.

System board

BIOS Setup Utility is set to Enabled.

Onboard Devices Configuration

Run printer self-test.

Printer driver

Printer cable

Printer

System Board

Utility is set to Enabled.

Device driver

Device cable

Device

System board

Keyboard/Touchpad-Related Symptoms

Symptom / Error Action in Sequence

Keyboard (one or more keys) does not work. Reconnect the keyboard cable.

Keyboard

System board

Touchpad does not work. Reconnect touchpad cable.

Touchpad board

System board

Modem-Related Symptoms

Symptom / Error Action in Sequence

Internal modem does not work correctly. Modem phone port

modem combo board

System board

NOTE: If you cannot find a symptom or an error in this list and the problem remains, see “Undetermined

Problems” on page 96.

94 Chapter 4

Intermittent Problems

Intermittent system hang problems can be caused by a variety of reasons that have nothing to do with a
hardware defect, such as: cosmic radiation, electrostatic discharge, or software errors. FRU replacement
should be considered only when a recurring problem exists.

When analyzing an intermittent problem, do the following:

1. Run the advanced diagnostic test for the system board in loop mode at least 10 times.

2. If no error is detected, do not replace any FRU.

3. If any error is detected, replace the FRU. Rerun the test to verify that there are no more errors.

Chapter 4 95

Undetermined Problems

The diagnostic problems does not identify which adapter or device failed, which installed devices are incorrect,
whether a short circuit is suspected, or whether the system is inoperative.

Follow these procedures to isolate the failing FRU (do not isolate non-defective FRU).

NOTE: Verify that all attached devices are supported by the computer.

NOTE: Verify that the power supply being used at the time of the failure is operating correctly. (See “Power

System Check” on page 81.):

1. Power-off the computer.

2. Visually check them for damage. If any problems are found, replace the FRU.

3. Remove or disconnect all of the following devices:

Non-Acer devices

Printer, mouse, and other external devices

Battery pack

Hard disk drive

DIMM

CD-ROM/Diskette drive Module

PC Cards

4. Power-on the computer.

5. Determine if the problem has changed.

6. If the problem does not recur, reconnect the removed devices one at a time until you find the failing FRU.

7. If the problem remains, replace the following FRU one at a time. Do not replace a non-defective FRU:

System board

LCD assembly

96 Chapter 4

Jumper and Connector Locations

Chapter 5

Chapter 5 97

Bottom View

98 Chapter 5

Chapter 5 99

100 Chapter 5