Acer TravelMate 7000 User Manual

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TravelMate 7000
User’s Manual
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Copyright

Copyright © 1997 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
Acer Incorporated makes no representations or warranties, either expressed or implied, with respect to the contents hereof and specifically disclaims any warranties, 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. Further, Acer Incorporated reserves the right to revise this publication and to make changes from time to time in the contents hereof without obligation of Acer Incorporated to notify any person of such revision or changes.
Acer is a registered trademark of Acer Incorporated. Microsoft, MS-DOS, Windows and Windows 95 are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. IBM and OS/2 are registered trademarks of IBM Corporation. Intel and Pentium are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation. Other brand and product names are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective companies.
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IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
1. Read these instructions carefully. Save these instructions for future reference.
2. Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the product.
3. Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth for cleaning.
4. Do not use this product near water.
5. Do not place this product on an unstable cart, stand, or table. The product may fall, causing serious damage to the product.
6. Slots and openings in the cabinet and the back or bottom are provided for ventilation; to ensure reliable operation of the product and to protect it from overheating, these openings must not be blocked or covered. The openings should never be blocked by placing the product on a bed, sofa, rug, or other similar surface. This product should never be placed near or over a radiator or heat register, or in a built-in installation unless proper ventilation is provided.
7. This product should be operated from the type of power indicated on the marking label. If you are not sure of the type of power available, consult your dealer or local power company.
8. Do not allow anything to rest on the power cord. Do not locate this product where persons will walk on the cord.
9. If an extension cord is used with this product, make sure that the total ampere rating of the equipment plugged into the extension cord does not exceed the extension cord ampere rating. Also, make sure that the total rating of all products plugged into the wall outlet does not exceed the fuse rating.
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.
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11. Do not attempt to service this product yourself, as opening or removing covers may expose you to dangerous voltage points or other risks. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
12. Unplug this product from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the following conditions:
a. When the power cord or plug is damaged or frayed b. If liquid has been spilled into the product c. If the product has been exposed to rain or water d. If the product does not operate normally when the operating
instructions are followed. Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operating instructions since improper adjustment of other controls may result in damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified technician to restore the product to
normal condition. e. If the product has been dropped or the cabinet has been damaged f. If the product exhibits a distinct change in performance, indicating
a need for service
13. Replace 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! Battery may explode if not handled properly. Do not recharge, disassemble or dispose of in fire. Keep away from children and dispose of 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).
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Concerning Lithium Batteries
ADVARSEL!
Lithiumbatteri - Eksplosionsfare ved fejlagtig håndtering.
Udskiftning må kun ske med batteri af samme fabrikat og type.
Léver det brugte batteri tilbage til leverandøren.
A D V A R S E L
Eksplosjonsfare ved feilaktig skifte av batteri. Benytt samme batteritype eller en tilsvarende
type anbefalt av apparatfabrikanten.
Brukte batterier kasseres i henhold til fabrikantens instruksjoner.
Explosionsfara vid felaktigt batteribyte.
Anvãnd samma batterityp eller en ekvivalent typ som
rekommenderas av apparattillverkaren.
Kassera anvãnt batteri enligt fabrikantens instruktion
Päristo voi räjähtää, jos se on virheellisesti asennettu.
Vaihda paristo ainoastaan laitevalmistajan suosittelemaan tyyppiin.
Hävitä käytetty paristo valmistajan ohjeiden mukaisesti.
VARNING
VAROITUS
Canadian Department of Communications
Regulatory Statement
This digital apparatus does not exceed Class B limits for radio noise emissions from digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian Department of Communications.
Le présent appareil numérique n'émet pas de bruits radio-électriques dépassant les limites applicables aux appareils numériques de la classe B prescrites dans le Réglement sur le brouillage radioélectrique édicté par le ministère des Communications du Canada.
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FCC Class B Radio Frequency Interference Statement
Note:
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment 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 equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
1. Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
2. Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
3. Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
4. Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/television technician for help.
Notice 1:
The changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
Notice 2:
Shielded interface cables, if any, must be used in order to comply with the emission limits.
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About This Manual

Purpose
This manual discusses the features of the notebook and tells how to use and configure it.
Manual Structure
This manual consists of eight chapters and two appendices: Chapter 1, Getting Started, tells you how to get started with the notebook. Chapter 2, System Tour, gives a guided and in-depth “tour” of the notebook
and its features. Chapter 3, Power, discusses issues on battery use and includes information
on the unique power management system. Chapter 4, Options, tells how to connect and install hardware options. Chapter 5, Software, describes how to configure certain utilities and
applications. Chapter 6, Setup, explains how to configure the system with the BIOS
Setup utility. Chapter 7, Traveling with the Notebook, includes informative and useful tips
on travel. Chapter 8, Troubleshooting, lists the steps you can take to resolve problems
in an easy Q&A format. Appendix A, Specifications, lists the specifications of the notebook. Appendix B, Address and Interrupt Tables, shows the address and interrupt
tables.
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Conventions
The following conventions are used in this manual:
C:\setup,
[Enabled], etc.
message displayed
b,e,r, etc
Represent text input by the user, default settings and recommended selections
Denotes actual messages that appear on screen
Represent the actual keys that you have to press on the keyboard
NOTE
Gives bits and pieces of additional information related to the current topic
WARNING
Alerts you if damage may result from doing or not doing specific actions
CAUTION
Gives precautionary measures to avoid possible hardware or software problems
IMPORTANT
Reminds you to take action relevant to the accomplishment of the procedure at hand
TIP
Tells how to complete a procedure with minimum steps through little shortcuts
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Table of Contents
1 Getting Started
1.1 Item Checklist.......................................................................................1-2
1.2 Taking Care of Your Computer..............................................................1-3
1.2.1 Notebook..................................................................................1-3
1.2.2 AC Adapter...............................................................................1-6
1.2.3 Battery Pack.............................................................................1-6
1.2.4 Cleaning and Servicing.............................................................1-7
1.2.5 Diskettes...................................................................................1-7
1.3 Connecting the Notebook......................................................................1-9
1.4 Getting Help Online.............................................................................1-10
2 System Tour
2.1 Features................................................................................................2-2
2.2 Display..................................................................................................2-4
2.3 Indicator Lights......................................................................................2-7
2.4 Keyboard ..............................................................................................2-8
2.4.1 Keyboard Layout.......................................................................2-8
2.4.2 Special Keys .............................................................................2-9
2.4.3 Automatic Tilt Feature ............................................................2-16
2.4.4 Palm Rest ............................................................................... 2-17
2.5 Touchpad............................................................................................2-18
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2.6 Storage............................................................................................... 2-20
2.6.1 Hard Disk................................................................................ 2-20
2.6.2 Module Bay ............................................................................2-20
2.7 Ports...................................................................................................2-23
2.7.1 Left Panel Ports......................................................................2-23
2.7.2 Rear Panel Ports ....................................................................2-26
2.8 Audio .................................................................................................. 2-28
2.8.1 Built-in Speakers and Microphone .......................................... 2-28
2.8.2 Controlling the Audio ..............................................................2-29
2.9 Communications.................................................................................2-30
2.9.1 Serial Infrared.........................................................................2-30
2.9.2 Fax/Data Modem....................................................................2-31
2.10 Securing your Notebook......................................................................2-32
2.10.1 Security Notch........................................................................2-32
2.10.2 System Resource Lock...........................................................2-32
3 Power
3.1 Battery Power .......................................................................................3-2
3.1.1 Battery Pack Characteristics.....................................................3-2
3.1.2 Removing and Installing the Battery Pack .................................3-3
3.1.3 Charging the Battery.................................................................3-4
3.1.4 Checking the Battery Level.......................................................3-5
3.1.5 Optimizing Battery Life .............................................................3-7
3.1.6 Battery Low Condition...............................................................3-8
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3.2 Power Management............................................................................3-10
3.2.1 The Concept of Heuristics ....................................................... 3-10
3.2.2 Suspend Modes......................................................................3-11
3.2.3 Advanced Power Management (APM) .................................... 3-14
4 Options
4.1 External Monitor....................................................................................4-2
4.2 External Keyboard.................................................................................4-3
4.3 External Keypad....................................................................................4-4
4.4 External Pointing Device.......................................................................4-5
4.5 Printer...................................................................................................4-7
4.6 Audio Devices.......................................................................................4-8
4.7 Mini Dock..............................................................................................4-9
4.8 PC Cards ..............................................................................................4-9
4.9 Miscellaneous Options ........................................................................4-10
4.9.1 Additional Power Packs .......................................................... 4-10
4.9.2 Cables....................................................................................4-12
4.10 Key Component Upgrades .................................................................. 4-14
4.10.1 Additional Memory..................................................................4-14
4.10.2 Hard Disk................................................................................ 4-16
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5 Software
5.1 System Software...................................................................................5-2
5.2 Sleep Manager......................................................................................5-3
5.2.1 Accessing the Sleep Manager ...................................................5-3
5.2.2 Sleep Manager Functions .........................................................5-5
5.2.3 Running Sleep Manager ...........................................................5-8
5.2.4 Sleep Manager Troubleshooting Tips........................................5-9
5.2.5 Uninstalling Sleep Manager ....................................................5-10
5.3 Touchpad Driver ................................................................................. 5-12
5.3.1 Configuring the Touchpad ....................................................... 5-12
6 Setup
6.1 When to Use Setup...............................................................................6-2
6.2 Entering Setup......................................................................................6-3
6.3 About My Computer..............................................................................6-4
6.4 System Configuration ............................................................................6-7
6.4.1 Date and Time..........................................................................6-7
6.4.2 Diskette Drives .........................................................................6-8
6.4.3 Hard Disks................................................................................6-8
6.4.4 Num Lock After Boot ................................................................6-8
6.4.5 LCD Expansion Mode...............................................................6-8
6.4.6 Internal Cache ........................................................................6-10
6.4.7 External Cache.......................................................................6-11
6.4.8 Enhanced IDE Features..........................................................6-11
6.4.9 Onboard Communication Ports...............................................6-12
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6.4.10 Onboard Audio .......................................................................6-15
6.4.11 Reset PnP Resources.............................................................6-16
6.5 Power Saving Options......................................................................... 6-17
6.5.1 When Lid is Closed ................................................................. 6-18
6.5.2 Suspend to Disk on Critical Battery.........................................6-19
6.5.3 Display Always On..................................................................6-19
6.5.4 Internal Speaker ..................................................................... 6-19
6.5.5 External Mouse Location ........................................................6-19
6.5.6 Internal Modem ...................................................................... 6-20
6.5.7 Resume On Modem Ring .......................................................6-20
6.5.8 Resume On Schedule.............................................................6-20
6.5.9 Resume Date / Resume Time.................................................6-20
6.6 System Security..................................................................................6-21
6.6.1 Supervisor and User Passwords .............................................6-22
6.6.2 Diskette Drive Control ............................................................. 6-23
6.6.3 Hard Disk Drive Control.......................................................... 6-24
6.6.4 Start Up Sequences................................................................6-24
6.6.5 Flash New BIOS.....................................................................6-25
6.7 Reset to Default Settings.....................................................................6-26
7 Traveling with the Notebook
7.1 Travel Preparations...............................................................................7-2
7.2 International Traveler’s Warranty ..........................................................7-3
7.3 Worldwide Support................................................................................7-6
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8 Troubleshooting
8.1 Q & A....................................................................................................8-2
8.2 POST Error Messages ..........................................................................8-7
A Specifications
B Address and Interrupt Tables
B.1 System Memory Map ............................................................................ B-1
B.2 I/O Address Map ................................................................................... B-2
B.3 Interrupt Levels .....................................................................................B-3
B.4 DMA Channels...................................................................................... B-3
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List of Figures

1-1 Write-protecting a 3.5-inch Diskette ......................................................1-8
2-1 Display..................................................................................................2-5
2-2 Indicator Lights......................................................................................2-7
2-3 Keyboard Layout...................................................................................2-8
2-4 Palm Rest...........................................................................................2-17
2-5 Touchpad............................................................................................ 2-18
2-6 Module Bay......................................................................................... 2-20
2-7 Left Panel Ports..................................................................................2-23
2-8 Rear Panel Ports.................................................................................2-26
2-9 Built-in Speakers and Microphone ....................................................... 2-28
4-1 Connecting an External Monitor............................................................4-2
4-2 Connecting an External Keyboard.........................................................4-3
4-3 Connecting an External Keypad............................................................4-4
4-4 Connecting an External Pointing Device ...............................................4-5
4-5 Connecting a Parallel Printer.................................................................4-7
4-6 Connecting Audio Devices....................................................................4-8
4-7 Mini Dock..............................................................................................4-9
4-8 Using the File Transfer Cable..............................................................4-13
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List of Tables

2-1 Indicator Status Descriptions .................................................................2-7
2-2 Lock Key Descriptions...........................................................................2-9
2-3 Using the Embedded Keypad..............................................................2-10
2-4 Windows 95 Key Descriptions.............................................................2-11
2-5 Hot Key List ........................................................................................2-12
2-6 Eject Menu Descriptions......................................................................2-15
2-7 Touchpad Functions............................................................................2-19
2-8 Left Panel Port Descriptions ................................................................ 2-24
2-9 Rear Panel Port Descriptions..............................................................2-27
2-10 Audio Control Hot Keys.......................................................................2-29
3-1 Battery-level Chart................................................................................3-6
3-2 Course of Action for Battery-low Condition............................................3-9
4-1 Memory Configurations.......................................................................4-14
4-2 Hard Disk List......................................................................................4-16
5-1 Sleep Manager Window Items...............................................................5-4
5-2 Sleep Manager Error Messages and Solutions......................................5-9
6-1 About My Computer Item Descriptions..................................................6-5
6-2 Diskette Drive Control Settings............................................................6-23
6-3 Hard Disk Drive Control Settings......................................................... 6-24
6-4 Start Up Sequences Settings...............................................................6-24
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8-1 POST Error Messages..........................................................................8-7
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Getting Started

Congratulations on your purchase of the award-winning TravelMate 7000 notebook computer. Guaranteed and backed by Acer’s world-class support, you can be sure of top-notch performance with your new AcerNote. This chapter guides you through the first few steps on setting up your notebook computer.
Chapter 1
Getting Started 1-1
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1.1 Item Checklist
Carefully unpack the carton and remove the contents. If any of the following items is missing or damaged, contact your dealer immediately.
Notebook computer
Accessory box
AC adapter
Battery pack
Floppy drive module
External floppy drive cable
User’s manual and other documentation
Check for optional items, if any.
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1.2 Taking Care of Your Computer
Your computer will serve you well if you take care of it. This section tells you how to care for the notebook. Also, re-read the important safety instructions at the beginning of this manual.
1.2.1 Notebook
Do not expose the notebook to direct sunlight. Do not place near sources of heat, such as a radiator.
Do not expose to temperatures below 0ºC (32ºF)
or
above 50ºC (122ºF).
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Do not subject the notebook to
magnetic fields.
Do not expose the notebook to rain or moisture.
Do not spill water on the notebook.
Do not subject the computer to heavy shock and vibration.
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Do not expose the notebook to
dust and dirt.
Never place objects on top of the notebook to avoid damaging the notebook.
Never place the notebook on uneven surfaces.
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1.2.2 AC Adapter
The AC adapter provides uninterrupted power to your notebook and charges your battery pack. Here are some ways of taking care of your AC adapter.
Do not connect the adapter to any other device.
Do not step on the power cord or place heavy objects on top of it.
Carefully route the power cord and any cables away from personal traffic.
When unplugging the power cord, pull on the plug and not on the cord
itself.
1.2.3 Battery Pack
The long-lasting Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) rechargeable battery pack gives you power on-the-go. Here are some things to keep in mind regarding your battery pack.
Caution:
Replace the battery pack with the same type (Model Name: BTP-S31)
Battery pack is suitable for use only with this notebook model
Burn hazard. Do not disassemble. Handle damaged or leaking
lithium-ion battery with extreme care. If the battery is damaged, electrolyte may leak from the cells and may cause personal injury.
There may be local restrictions on the disposal or recycling of batteries;
consult your local regulations or waste disposal provider.
Do not expose to high temperatures (50°C / 122°F)
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1.2.4 Cleaning and Servicing
When cleaning the notebook, follow these steps:
1. Close the display lid to turn the notebook off.
2. Disconnect the AC adapter.
3. Remove the battery pack.
4. Use a soft cloth moistened with water. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners.
Contact your dealer or see your service technician if any of the following occurs:
Notebook has been dropped or damaged.
Liquid has been spilled into the product.
The notebook does not operate normally.
See section 7.3 for contact information.
1.2.5 Diskettes
Following are some tips on diskette management:
Always make backup copies of diskettes that contain important data or
program files.
Keep diskettes away from magnetic fields and sources of heat.
Avoid removing a diskette from a drive when the floppy drive activity
light is on.
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Write-protect your diskettes to prevent accidental erasure. To do this,
slide the write-protect tab to the write-protect position.
Write-protected
Not write-protected
Figure 1-1 Write-protecting a 3.5-inch Diskette
When you put a label on a 3.5-inch diskette, make sure that the label is
properly attached (flat on the surface) and within the labelling area (area with slight surface depression) on the diskette. An improperly attached label may cause a diskette to get stuck in the drive when you are inserting or removing it.
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1.3 Connecting the Notebook
After reading through the previous section, you are now ready to experience your new notebook. Connecting the notebook is as easy as 1-2-3.
Inserting the Battery Pack
Insert the battery pack into the battery compartment and slide the battery compartment cover in place.
Connecting the AC Adapter
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.
Turning on the Power
Slide the display cover latch to the right and open the display to turn on the power.
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1.4 Getting Help Online
This user’s manual 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 Help
Follow these steps to access the online documentation:
1. Press the Windows logo button or Click on the Start button.
2. Select Programs.
3. Click on TravelMate 7000.
4. Select Online Manual. The online help is easy to navigate with hypertext and hypergraphics. Clear
illustrations help describe notebook operation as well.
Getting Online
If you are connected to the Internet and have World Wide Web access, visit our home page (http://www.acer.com/) and get the latest information about our products, as well as updates on software drivers and utilities.
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System Tour

This notebook combines high-performance, versatility, multimedia capabilities and a truly advanced power management system in a unique human-centric and stylish design case. Work with unmatched productivity and reliability with your new power computing partner.
This chapter gives an in-depth “tour” of the notebook’s many features.
Chapter 2
System Tour 2-1
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2.1 Features
The notebook looks as good inside as it is outside, definitely designed with the user in mind. Here are just a few of the notebook’s many features:
Performance
High-end mobile Pentium microprocessor
64-bit main memory and 256KB external (L2) cache memory
Large display in DualScan STN or active-matrix TFT
PCI local bus video with 128-bit graphics accelerator
Flexible module bay (3.5-inch floppy drive or CD-ROM drive)
High-capacity, Enhanced-IDE hard disk
Heuristic power management with suspend-to-memory and zero-volt
suspend-to-disk power-saving modes
Lithium-Ion smart battery pack
High speed connectivity
16-bit stereo audio with built-in FM synthesizer
Built-in microphone and dual angled stereo speakers
30fps (frames per second) full-screen, true-color MPEG video playback
Infrared wireless communication
Internal 28.8Kbps modem
data) support; with speakerphone and telephone answering device features
1
This feature is available only in the U.S.
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with DSVD (digital simultaneous voice over
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Human-Centric Design and Ergonomics
Intuitive FlashStart automatic power-on
Sleek, smooth and stylish design
Automatic tilt-up, full-sized, full-function keyboard
Wide and comfortable palm rest
Ergonomically-centered touchpad pointing device
Expansion
PC Card (formerly PCMCIA) slots (two type II/I or one type III)
Mini dock option with built-in Ethernet
User-upgradeable memory
System Tour 2-3
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2.2 Display
The large graphics display offers excellent viewing, display quality and desktop performance graphics. The notebook supports two different displays — DualScan STN or active-matrix TFT LCD.
Video Performance
PCI local bus video with 128-bit graphics acceleration boost your video to desktop-performance level, and allows you to run 30fps full-screen, true­color video playback via software MPEG.
Simultaneous Display
The notebook’s large display and multimedia capabilities are great for giving presentations. If you prefer, you can connect an external monitor when giving presentations as the notebook supports simultaneous display on the LCD and external CRT. Simultaneous display allows you to control the presentation from your notebook and at the same time face your audience. For large-audience presentations, you can connect an LCD projection panel.
Power Management
The heuristic or “self-learning” power management system automatically decides the best settings for your display while providing maximum performance and power conservation. See section 3.2 for more information on power management.
Opening and Closing the Display
To open the display, slide the display lid latch to the right and lift up the display. Then tilt it to a comfortable viewing position. To close the display, fold it down gently until the display lid latch clicks into place.
To avoid damaging the display, do not slam it when closing the lid. Do not place any object on top of the notebook when the
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display is closed.
FlashStart Automatic Power-On
A noticeably unique feature about this notebook is that it has no on/off switch. Instead it employs a lid switch, located near the center of the display hinge, that tells the notebook when it should wake up or go to sleep.
Lid Switch
Figure 2-1 Display
When you close the display lid, the notebook enters suspend-to-memory or suspend-to-disk mode before turning off the power, depending on the When Lid is Closed parameter setting in Setup (see section 6.5.1). When you open the lid, the notebook resumes from where you left off before closing the lid.
Suspend-to-memory, suspend-to-disk and other power management issues are discussed in detail in section 3.2.
System Tour 2-5
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The “Lid Closed” State
When the lid is closed (i.e., the “lid closed” state), the notebook suspends its normally busy tasks to make itself electronically and mechanically more stable. When the lid is opened, the notebook briefly checks its environment and always re-initializes devices newly added in or removed from the notebook.
Though the notebook allows for various hot insertion of peripherals, the “lid closed” state provides the most stable and practical means to attach and detach peripheral components.
As a simple rule of thumb, close the lid when adding or removing peripheral components.
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2.3 Indicator Lights
Two indicator lights are found on the display panel.
Figure 2-2 Indicator Lights
Power Indicator
Battery Indicator
These indicators and their descriptions are shown in Table 2-1.
Table 2-1 Indicator Status Descriptions
Icon Indicator Light Description
Power Indicator Lights when power is on
Flashes when the notebook is in suspend-to-
memory mode
Battery Indicator Lights when battery pack is charging
Flashes when battery power is low
To know more about batteries and power management, see Chapter 3.
System Tour 2-7
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2.4 Keyboard
The full-sized keyboard includes an embedded keypad, separate cursor keys, two Windows 95 keys and twelve function keys. Special keys are highlighted in different colors.
2.4.1 Keyboard Layout
US
UK
Figure 2-3 Keyboard Layout
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2.4.2 Special Keys
Lock Keys
The notebook has the three basic lock keys which you can toggle on and off. Some keys may require using as part of a key combination.
Table 2-2 Lock Key Descriptions
Key Description
@ When Caps Lock is on, all alphabetical characters typed appear in
uppercase.
- When Num Lock is on, the embedded keypad is in numeric mode. The keys function as a numeric keypad like the one found on standard PC keyboards (complete with arithmetic operators +, -, *, and /).
Use this mode when you need to do a lot of numeric data entry. A better solution would be an external keypad. See section 4.3.
- When Scroll Lock is on, the screen moves one line up or down when you press w or y respectively. Scroll lock does not work with some applications.
System Tour 2-9
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Embedded Keypad
The embedded keypad functions like a desktop numeric keypad. It is indicated by small characters located on the upper right corner of the keycaps. To simplify the keyboard legend, the cursor-control key symbols are not printed. Table 2-3 tells how to use the embedded keypad.
Table 2-3 Using the Embedded Keypad
Desired Access Num Lock On Num Lock Off
Number keys on embedded keypad
Cursor-control keys on embedded keypad
Main keyboard keys Hold while typing letters
Type numbers in a normal manner
Hold j while using cursor­control keys
on embedded keypad
Hold while using keypad keys
Hold and j while using cursor-control keys
Type the letters in a normal manner
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Windows 95 Keys
The keyboard has two keys that perform Windows 95-specific functions.
Table 2-4 Windows 95 Key Descriptions
Key Description
Windows logo key Start button. Combinations with this key performs special
functions. Below are a few examples:
Windows + Tab Activate next Taskbar button
Windows + E Explore My Computer
Windows + F Find Document
Windows + M Minimize All
Shift + Windows + M Undo Minimize All
Windows + R Display Run dialog box
Application Key Opens the application’s context menu (same as right-click).
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Hot Keys
The notebook uses hot keys (key combinations) to access most of the notebook’s controls like screen contrast and brightness, volume output and the BIOS setup utility. Some hot keys will pop-up a corresponding icon onscreen for better visuals.
When activating hot keys, press and hold the first key before pressing the other keys in the combination.
Table 2-5 Hot Key List
Hot Key Icon Function Description
-|
-l
Suspend-to­memory
Help Displays the hotkey list
Enters suspend-to-memory mode
?
-m
-n
-o
PnP
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Setup Enters the BIOS setup utility
Plug and Play Configuration
Screen Blackout
Allows the system to re-configure itself and do self-diagnostics
Blanks the screen to save power. To wake up the screen, press any key.
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Table 2-5 Hot Key List (continued)
Hot Key Icon Function Description
-p
-q
-r
-s
-t
-b-w
Display Toggle
Fuel Gauge On/Off
Speaker On/Off
Lock System Resources
Eject Accesses the Eject menu. See the
Volume Up Increases audio volume
Switches display from LCD to CRT to both LCD and CRT
Toggles battery gauge display on/off. Also shows the following:
“plug” icon if a powered AC adapter is connected to the notebook.
“speaker” icon if speaker output is on (toggled by -r).
“T” icon if turbo mode is on (toggled by -2).
Toggles speaker output on and off
Provides notebook security by locking system from access. Requires password input to unlock system. See section 6.6.1.
following subsection.
-b-y
-b-z
-b-x
-
-
-w
-y
Volume Down Decreases audio volume
Balance Left Shifts speaker balance to the left
Balance Right Shifts speaker balance to the right
Brightness Up
Brightness Down
Increases screen brightness
Decreases screen brightness to save power
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Table 2-5 Hot Key List (continued)
Hot Key Icon Function Description
-
-
-w
-y
-z
-x
-1
-2
-x
-z
Contrast Up Increases screen contrast
Contrast Down
Fuel Gauge Up
Fuel Gauge Down
Fuel Gauge Left
Fuel Gauge Right
CD Eject Ejects the CD-ROM drive Turbo Mode
On/Off
Using the Eject Menu
Pressing -t brings up the Eject Menu.
Eject Menu
(DSTN only) Decreases screen contrast
(DSTN only) With the fuel gauge onscreen, moves
the fuel gauge up With the fuel gauge onscreen, moves
the fuel gauge down With the fuel gauge onscreen, moves
the fuel gauge left With the fuel gauge onscreen, moves
the fuel gauge right
Toggles turbo mode on and off.
Battery (Suspend to Disk).............. Change
CD-ROM Disc (Also Fn+1)................
Power Off..............................
↑↑↓↓ = Move Highlight Bar, ↵↵ = Select, Esc = Exit
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The eject menu commands allow you to perform various eject-related functions for the notebook. See the following table for details
Table 2-6 Eject Menu Descriptions
Select… To…
Battery Change the battery.
This option forces the notebook to enter suspend-to-disk mode, so that you can replace the battery with a charged one, and then return to where you left off.
To resume, close the display lid and open the display lid again.
CD-ROM Disc Open the CD-ROM drive.
There are many ways to open the CD-ROM disc tray:
selecting this option
pressing Fn-1
pressing the CD-ROM eject button
using software controls
It is best to wait for the CD-ROM light (found on the CD-ROM eject button) to go off before ejecting the CD-ROM drive.
Power Off Turn the system off (without entering suspend mode).
When you choose this option, a “cold boot” occurs after re­starting the system (closing and opening the display). You can choose this option when you want to swap modules, or when you want to turn off the notebook without entering any of the suspend modes. Note however that the proper way to power off the system in Windows 95 is to use the Shutdown command.
To turn the notebook back on, close the display lid and open the display lid again.
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2.4.3 Automatic Tilt Feature
The keyboard has the option of automatically tilting to a six-degree angle whenever you open the lid. This automatic tilt feature brings to the notebook the comfortable typing angle provided in standard PC desktop keyboards.
Together with the palm rest (discussed in the following section), these two ergonomic features help prevent repetitive strain injury to your wrists and fingers.
Enabling and Disabling the Automatic Tilt Feature
A tilt switch, found right above the port cover on the rear of the notebook, allows you to enable or disable this feature. Follow these steps:
1. Close the lid.
2. To enable the automatic tilt feature, slide the tilt switch to the right ( ).
To disable the automatic tilt feature, slide the tilt switch to the left ( ).
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2.4.4 Palm Rest
Located below the keyboard, the wide and curved palm rest gives you a comfortable place to rest your hands while you type.
3. Open the lid.
Figure 2-4 Palm Rest
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2.5 Touchpad
The ergonomically-centered touchpad is a pointing device that senses movement on its surface. This means the cursor responds as you move your finger on the surface of the touchpad.
Figure 2-5 Touchpad
The touchpad works with most mouse drivers. However, the touchpad driver supports special functions that work uniquely with the touchpad. We recommend you use the touchpad driver instead of any other mouse driver.
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Touchpad Basics
The following two items teach you how to use the touchpad:
Move your finger across the touchpad to move the cursor.
Press the left and right buttons located on the lower edge of the
touchpad to do selection and execution functions. These two buttons are similar to the left and right buttons on a mouse. Tapping on the touchpad produces similar results. See Table 2-7.
Table 2-7 Touchpad Functions
Function Left Button Right Button Tapping on the Touchpad
Execution Click twice
quickly Selection Click once Tap once Drag Click and
hold to drag
the cursor
Access Context Menu
Click once When Corner Taps is enabled, tap
Tap twice (at the same speed as double-clicking the mouse button)
Tap twice (at the same speed as double-clicking the mouse button) and hold finger to the touchpad on the second tap to drag the cursor
on the upper right corner of the touchpad. See section 5.3 on how to configure the touchpad.
Keep your fingers dry and clean when using the touchpad. Also keep the touchpad dry and clean.
The touchpad is sensitive to finger movements. Hence, the lighter the touch, the better the response. Tapping too hard will not increase the touchpad’s responsiveness.
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2.6 Storage
2.6.1 Hard Disk
High-capacity storage comes in the form of a 2.5-inch Enhanced-IDE hard disk. The hard disk can be upgraded when you need more storage space. See section 4.9.2 for related information.
2.6.2 Module Bay
The notebook’s flexible module bay accommodates either a high-speed CD-ROM drive module or a 3.5-inch, 1.44MB floppy drive.
CD-ROM Drive Module
Floppy Drive Module
Figure 2-6 Module Bay
The modules are designed to give you flexibility in the fast-moving portable platform. The CD-ROM drive module gives you portable multimedia access. The floppy drive module serves both as an internal and external unit.
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Swapping Modules
The proper way to cleanly swap or interchange modules is to power off the notebook without the help of any suspend modes. The notebook needs to perform a “cold boot” (Windows 95 shutdown or via the Eject menu) or “warm boot” (Ctrl-Alt-Del) to correctly detect and identify the module currently installed in the module bay. Simply closing the display lid will only put the notebook in either suspend-to-disk or suspend-to-memory.
Follow these steps to swap modules:
1. Do a Windows 95 shutdown. If you are not using the
notebook under Windows 95, you can use the Power-Off option by accessing the Eject Menu (Fn-F9).
2. Close the display lid.
3. Slide the module release lock and press the module release latch and pull out the module.
4. Insert the new module securely into the module bay.
5. Open the display lid. After opening the display, the notebook automatically senses the new module.
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Ejecting a CD
To eject a CD, press the eject button on the CD-ROM drive, press
-1, or use your software to eject
the CD-ROM drive.
In Windows 95, you can right-click on the CD-ROM drive icon and select the Eject command.
Using the Floppy Drive Module Externally
You can use the floppy drive module externally when a CD-ROM drive module is installed in the module bay.
You cannot use the CD-ROM drive module externally.
Only the floppy drive module can be used externally.
If the floppy drive module is installed in the module bay, remove it by following the steps described in the previous section.
Open the port cover and connect the 25-pin connector end of the floppy drive cable to the parallel port. Connect the other end of the cable to the floppy drive module.
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2.7 Ports
Ports allow you to connect peripheral devices to your notebook computer as you would with a desktop PC. The ports are found on the left and rear panel. The following sections discuss these ports and their functions.
See Chapter 4 on how to connect external devices to the notebook.
2.7.1 Left Panel Ports
Multimedia ports and the PC card slots are found on the left panel. See Figure 2-7.
1 2 3
1 PC Card Slots 2 Microphone-in/Line-in Port 3 Speaker-out/Line-out Port
Figure 2-7 Left Panel Ports
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Table 2-8 describes these ports.
Table 2-8 Left Panel Port Descriptions
# Icon Port Connects to...
1 PC Card slots One Type III or two Type I/II PC cards 2 Microphone-in/Line-in External microphone or line input device
3 Speaker-out/Line-out Amplified speakers or headphones
PC Card Slots
There are two type II/I or one type III PC Card slots found on the left panel of the notebook. These slots accept credit-card-sized cards that enhance the usability and expandability of the notebook.
PC Cards (formerly PCMCIA) are add-on cards for portable computers, giving you expansion possibilities long afforded by desktop PCs. Common type II cards include flash memory, SRAM, fax/data modem, LAN and SCSI cards. Type III cards most often used are 1.8-inch ATA drives and cellular modems.
Inserting a Card
Insert the card into the desired slot and make the proper connections (e.g., network cable), if necessary. See your card manual for details.
For type III cards, insert the card into the lower (bottom) slot.
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Ejecting a Card
1. Exit the application using the card.
2. Flip out the slot eject button of the slot where the card is inserted.
3. Press the slot eject button to eject the card.
If you want to install a card, refer to your card’s user’s manual for details on how to install and use the card.
Multimedia Ports
Connecting external audio devices to these ports automatically shuts off the corresponding internal audio device. For example, if you connect external speakers, the internal speakers automatically shut off.
To use Mic-in or Line in, insert the plug of the desired device and make sure to turn off the appropriate input from the mixer. See the multimedia section of your Windows 95 manual.
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2.7.2 Rear Panel Ports
The rear panel includes the notebook’s main ports and connectors. See Figure 2-8.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
1 DC-in Port 5 Mini Dock Connector 2 PS/2 Port 6 External CRT Port 3 Serial Port 7 RJ-11 Phone Jack 4 Parallel Port 8 Infrared Port
Figure 2-8 Rear Panel Ports
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Table 2-9 describes these ports.
Table 2-9 Rear Panel Port Descriptions
# Icon Port Connects to...
1 DC-in port AC adapter and power outlet
2
3 Serial port
4 Parallel port
5 Mini dock connector Mini dock
6 External CRT port External monitor
7 Modem jack (RJ-11) Phone line
8 Infrared port Infrared-aware device
PS/2 port PS/2-compatible device
(e.g., PS/2 keyboard, keypad, mouse)
Serial device
(UART16650-compatible)
(EPP/ECP-compliant)
(e.g., serial mouse) Parallel device (e.g., parallel
printer, external floppy drive)
(up to 1024x768, 256 colors )
(e.g., notebook with IR port, desktop with IR adapter, IR­capable printer)
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2.8 Audio
Standard notebook configuration includes 16-bit stereo audio with built-in FM synthesizer. Combined with the dual, angled speaker system and built­in sensitive microphone, this notebook redefines portable audio.
2.8.1 Built-in Speakers and Microphone
The dual, angled speakers found on both sides of the display hinge directs sound towards you, and its unique audio chamber design allows for better acoustics and sound reverberation resulting in excellent sound quality.
The built-in sensitive microphone provides good quality audio recording with its echo-cancellation design via the front-and-side mic pocket.
Left Speaker
Microphone
Right Speaker
Figure 2-9 Built-in Speakers and Microphone
Besides the built-in speakers and microphone, there are two audio ports on the left panel of the notebook. See section 4.6 for details on how to connect external audio devices.
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2.8.2 Controlling the Audio
There are hot keys that allow you to control various aspects of the audio output. The following table lists the audio-specific hot keys:
Table 2-10 Audio Control Hot Keys
Hot Key Icon Function Description
-r Speaker On/Off Toggles speaker output on and off
-b-w Volume Up Increases audio volume
-b-y Volume Down Decreases audio volume
-b-z Balance Left Shifts speaker balance to the left
-b-x Balance Right Shifts speaker balance to the right
These settings are only in effect for a single session (e.g., up to a power off). To let it stay in the same settings for the next power on, you need to adjust the audio volume control in Windows 95 or other operating systems.
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2.9 Communications
2.9.1 Serial Infrared
This notebook has an SIR (serial infrared) port located on the rear panel. Wireless communication support allows you to transfer data to SIR-”aware”
machines without the aid of cables. Not only can you transfer data between two SIR-capable computers, you can also send data to SIR-”aware” peripherals like infrared printers without the need to connect cables.
The infrared port is IrDA-compliant, allowing it to transfer data with speeds of up to 115.2 kilobits per second (kbps) at a distance of up to one meter.
Using the Infrared Port
Line up the SIR ports of the two SIR-”aware” devices no more than one meter apart and no greater than ±15 degrees.
Begin the file transfer program on both machines and you’re ready to go. See your file transfer software manual for details.
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2.9.2 Fax/Data Modem
The notebook has an optional state-of-the-art, 28.8Kbps V.34 fax/data modem that supports V.42bis hardware compression (115.2 kilobits per second). The modem also supports DSVD (simultaneous voice over data) technology which allows you to send data and talk at the same time.
Using the Modem
The advantage of a built-in modem is that it frees up your PC card slots for other functions.
1
Connect the phone line cable from the RJ11 modem port on the notebook’s rear panel to the telephone line jack.
Begin your communications software program. See your software manual for instructions. The software also supports speakerphone and telephone answering device features.
1
This feature is available only in the U.S.
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2.10 Securing your Notebook
Security features include hardware and software locks — a security notch and a two-level password scheme.
2.10.1 Security Notch
A security notch located on the left panel of the notebook lets you connect a standard key-based computer security lock.
2.10.2 System Resource Lock
Circle or wrap a computer security lock cable around an immovable object such as a table or locked drawer handle. Then insert the lock into the notch and turn the key to secure the lock.
A two-level password scheme protects your notebook from unauthorized access. When set, just press -s to lock all system resources. In this situation, no one can access the notebook without entering the correct password.
For information on how to set passwords, see section 6.6.1.
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Power

The notebook operates on AC or battery power. This chapter contains the information you need to know to operate the notebook on battery power. The chapter also includes information about the unique power management system.
Chapter 3
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3.1 Battery Power
The notebook uses a single high-capacity Lithium-Ion smart battery pack that gives you longer use between charges.
3.1.1 Battery Pack Characteristics
The battery pack has the following characteristics:
Lithium-Ion Technology Lithium-Ion technology does not have the
memory effect problem of Nickel Cadmium (NiCd) nor the temperature problem of Nickel Metal-Hydride (NiMH) battery types. Li-Ion batteries consistently provide the longest battery life best-suited for road warriors.
Battery Gauge Built into the battery pack is a battery gauge that allows
you to check the battery charge level even when the battery is not installed inside the notebook.
Battery-low Warning When the battery charge level becomes low, the
battery indicator flashes at regular intervals. This tells the user that the battery power is very low. You can correct this situation by recharging the battery pack.
Whenever possible, use the AC adapter. The battery will come in handy when you travel or during a power failure. It is advisable to have an extra fully-charged battery pack available for backup.
Currently, there is no defined standard for measuring battery life. Several factors have made it almost impossible to compare the battery life of different notebooks based on specifications alone. These factors include different implementations of power saving/management systems, applications in use, the user’s “usage pattern”, hard disk capacity and access frequency, LCD size and brightness, system form factor and weight.
If the notebook is to be stored for more than two weeks, we suggest that you remove the battery pack. Battery power from a fully charged battery pack depletes in roughly a week with the
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notebook in suspend-to-memory mode.
Do not expose battery packs to temperatures below 0ºC (32ºF) or above 60ºC (140ºF). This may adversely affect the battery pack.
3.1.2 Removing and Installing the Battery Pack
Removing the Battery Pack
Before removing the battery pack, make sure that you have an AC adapter connected to the notebook; otherwise turn off the notebook. The following figure illustrates how to remove the battery pack.
1. Press the battery compartment cover latch and slide it out.
2. Pull out the battery pack.
Installing the Battery Pack
Follow these steps to install the battery pack.
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Insert the battery pack into the battery compartment and slide in the battery compartment cover.
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3.1.3 Charging the Battery
To charge the battery, place the battery pack inside the battery compartment and plug the AC adapter into the notebook and an electrical outlet.
Charging Modes
The adapter has three charging modes:
Rapid charge mode
The notebook uses rapid charging when the notebook is in suspend mode and a powered AC adapter is connected to it. In rapid mode, a fully depleted battery gets fully charged in approximately two hours.
Charge-in-use mode
When the notebook is in use with the AC adapter plugged in, the notebook also charges the battery pack if installed. This mode will take longer to fully charge a battery than rapid mode. In charge-in-use mode, a fully depleted battery gets fully charged in approximately four hours.
Trickle charge mode
When the battery is fully charged, the adapter changes to trickle charge mode to maintain the battery charge level. This prevents the battery from draining while the notebook is in use.
We suggest that you charge the battery pack before you go to sleep, letting it charge overnight before traveling. This ensures a fully charged battery for use the next day.
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3.1.4 Checking the Battery Level
There are three ways to check the battery charge level:
Onscreen fuel gauge
Windows 95 battery indicator
Battery pack gauge
The fuel gauge shows the minimum guaranteed capacity to provide assurance that the system will be operational for the minimum battery life indicated.
Using the Onscreen Fuel Gauge
To access the onscreen fuel gauge, press -q. If a powered AC adapter is connected to the notebook, a plug icon also shows in the onscreen fuel gauge.
Press and hold and the cursor keys to move the fuel gauge around the screen. The onscreen fuel gauge indicates the present battery level. Press the hot key again to hide the fuel gauge.
Using the Windows 95 Battery Indicator
Rest your cursor on the battery icon on the taskbar to display the current power left. Double-clicking on the battery icon on the taskbar displays the Power dialog box. You can also access this dialog box via the Power icon from the Control Panel.
When the notebook is running on AC power, a plug icon replaces the battery icon on the taskbar.
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Using the Battery Pack Gauge
The battery pack gauge allows you to check your battery charge level even when it is not installed in the notebook.
Press the fuel gauge button on the battery pack to check the battery charge level.
Table 3-1 is a battery-level chart.
Table 3-1 Battery-level Chart
Battery LEDs LEDs Lit Charge Level
lllll
llll
¡¡
lll
¡¡¡
ll
¡¡¡¡
l
¡¡¡¡
-
¡
five 100%
four 80%
three 60%
two 40%
one 20%
one blinking <20%
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3.1.5 Optimizing Battery Life
Optimizing battery life prolongs the charge/recharge cycle and improves recharge efficiency. Follow these suggestions to optimize and maximize battery power:
Purchase an extra battery pack.
Set the When Lid is Closed parameter in Setup to [Suspend to
Disk]. See section 6.5.1.
Use the AC adapter whenever possible so that the battery is reserved
for on-the-go computing.
Keep the battery pack in the notebook powered by the AC adapter.
The constant trickle charge maintains the battery level to eliminate the battery self-discharge effect. The charge-in-use function also charges the battery pack.
Set the Internal Modem parameter to [Power-Off] to conserve
power when not using the internal modem. See section 6.5.6.
Set the Display Always On parameter to [Disabled] to save power.
See section 6.5.3.
Eject the PCMCIA card from the card slot when not in use, since the
PCMCIA card draws extra power.
Store the battery pack in a cool, dry place. The recommended storage
temperature for battery packs ranges from 10 to 30 degrees C. The higher the storage temperature, the faster the battery pack self­discharges.
The batteries can be recharged about 500 times when used as
directed.
Take care of your battery pack. See section 1.2.3 for details.
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3.1.6 Battery Low Condition
You never have to worry about battery power as long as you are using the AC adapter. However, when you operate the notebook on battery power, pay extra attention to the battery indicator ( ).
Generally speaking, a battery-low condition occurs when less than twenty percent charge left is in the battery. The following signals a battery-low condition:
The battery indicator ( ) flashes until battery power is depleted or
until AC power is applied
The fuel gauge (accessed via
When you receive a battery-low warning, you have about fifteen minutes to save your work. If you do not connect the AC adapter or install a backup battery pack within fifteen minutes, the notebook enters suspend-to-disk mode if the following conditions exist:
-q) turns red
There is enough battery power left to save system information onto the
hard disk.
The suspend-to-disk file created by the Sleep Manager is present and
valid
All suspend-to-disk conditions are matched. See section 3.2.2.
Otherwise, the notebook enters suspend-to-memory mode.
Connect the AC adapter or insert a charged battery pack into the notebook as soon as possible to prevent data loss.
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Table 3-2 lists the recommended course of action when you encounter a battery-low condition.
Table 3-2 Course of Action for Battery-low Condition
Situation Recommended Action
AC adapter and power outlet available
An extra fully-charged battery pack available
AC adapter, power outlet and extra battery pack not available
1. Connect the AC adapter to the notebook to begin charging the battery.
2. Resume work.
If you want the battery to recharge faster, close the display or press -| ( ) to enter suspend mode.
1. Press -| ( ) or close the display to enter suspend mode.
2. Open the battery compartment cover.
3. Remove the used up battery pack.
4. Install the new battery pack.
5. Press any key or open the display to resume work.
Remember to recharge the old battery pack. Close the display to enter suspend mode.
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3.2 Power Management
At the very heart of this notebook is a new way of power management called Heuristic Power Management (HPM). Part of the notebook’s overall design, this power management method allows the notebook to provide maximum power conservation and maximum performance.
3.2.1 The Concept of Heuristics
Current power management schemes or methods used by notebooks are timer-based. You have to set various time-out values for the display, the hard disk and other devices. Then based on these fixed time-outs, the system puts itself to sleep when it detects inactivity within this time frame. The problem with this is — no two users are alike. Each individual user has his or her own habits when using the computer. In short, timer-based power management is not an effective way to power-manage a system.
Heuristics suggests an idea of “self-learning”. HPM allows the system to power-manage itself depending on how you use the machine. In effect, the notebook delivers maximum power when you need it and saves power when you don’t need as much power, without requiring user intervention. There are no timers to set, nothing to enable or disable, because the system figures out everything for you.
Analogy on Heuristics
You normally walk to a grocery store. If you cross the street, you might have to walk a bit faster, or even run. Whether you walk or run depends upon situations that are not fixed.
The same should be true for computers. A computer should know when to operate at full power and when to operate at anything less than full power. Timer-based power management operates by a fixed set of rules which cannot adapt to dynamic situations. Heuristic power management allows the computer to adapt to dynamic situations.
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3.2.2 Suspend Modes
The heuristic power management system performs automatic suspend, hot­key suspend and all suspend actions resulting from various events and conditions. You only need to set the suspend mode type the notebook enters when a suspend condition occurs.
The two suspend modes are:
Suspend-to-memory mode
Suspend-to-disk mode
The suspend mode that the notebook enters into is specified in the When Lid is Closed parameter in Setup. See section 6.5.1.
The When Lid is Closed parameter can also be set to Sleep Mode. Sleep Mode maintains active modem and network connections when the display lid is closed. This power saving mode saves the least power.
If an external monitor is connected to the notebook, the notebook will not enter the desired suspend mode if you close the display. To enter suspend mode, disconnect the monitor plug, open the display and close the display again.
Suspend-to-Memory Mode
The notebook consumes very low power in suspend-to-memory mode. Data remains intact in memory. The notebook restores this information from the memory and resumes from where you left off upon leaving suspend mode.
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When battery runs out of power and the AC adapter is not connected, the notebook automatically does a suspend-to-disk operation and ignores the When Lid is Closed parameter setting in Setup. The suspend-to-disk file should be present and valid.
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Suspend-to-Memory Mode Conditions
For the notebook to enter suspend-to-memory mode, any of the following conditions should exist:
When Lid is Closed parameter is set to [Suspend To Memory]
The suspend-to-disk file is either absent or invalid
Entering Suspend-to-Memory Mode
With the suspend-to-memory conditions satisfied, there are many ways to enter suspend mode:
Closing the display
Pressing the suspend hot key
-| ( )
Sustained inactivity
Battery fail condition occurs without a powered AC adapter connected
Any suspend condition where suspend-to-disk fails
When the system enters suspend-to-memory mode, the power indicator ( ) flashes.
Leaving Suspend-to-Memory Mode
There are four ways to leave suspend-to-memory mode and return to normal mode:
If the display is closed, open the display
If the display is open, press any key.
The Resume on Modem Ring: parameter is set to [Enabled] and
the internal modem rings.
The Resume on Schedule parameter is set to [Enabled] and the
Resume Date and Time parameters have been met.
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Suspend-to-Disk Mode
In suspend-to-disk mode, power shuts off. The notebook saves all system status information onto the hard disk (in a file created by Sleep Manager) before entering suspend-to-disk mode. The next time you open the notebook, it restores this information from the hard disk and resumes from where you last left off.
Suspend-to-Disk Mode Conditions
For the notebook to enter suspend-to-disk mode, all of the following conditions should exist:
When Lid is Closed parameter is set to [Suspend To Disk]
The suspend-to-disk file created by Sleep Manager is present and valid
The Resume on Modem Ring and Resume on Schedule parameters
are disabled. See sections 6.5.5 and 6.5.6.
Entering and Leaving Suspend-to-Disk Mode
With the suspend-to-disk conditions satisfied, there are four ways to enter suspend-to-disk mode:
Closing the display
Battery fail condition occurs without a powered AC adapter connected
and Suspend to Disk on Critical Battery is set to [Enabled].
When battery is low while the notebook is in suspend-to-memory
mode, the notebook wakes up and performs a suspend-to-disk operation to prevent data loss.
To leave suspend-to-disk mode, open the display. Make sure a charged battery pack is installed and/or a powered AC adapter is connected before you open the display.
Validating the Suspend-to-Disk File
To check if the suspend-to-disk file is present and valid, rest your cursor on the Sleep Manager icon on the taskbar to show the status. See section 5.2
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3.2.3 Advanced Power Management (APM)
This notebook supports the APM standard designed to further reduce power consumption. APM is a power-management approach defined jointly by Microsoft® and Intel®. The notebook’s heuristic power management scheme works hand-in-hand with APM to take advantage of power saving features and allows greater system availability without degrading performance.
Advanced Power Management greatly prolongs battery life. Use APM whenever possible.
Setting the Optimum Power Management Level
Follow these steps:
1. Select the Start button, click on Settings... and select Control Panel.
2. Double-click on the Power icon in the Control Panel window.
3. Set the power management mode to Advanced for optimum power management.
Enabling APM
If APM under Windows 95 is not enabled, follow these steps to enable it:
1. Select the Start button, click on Settings... and select Control Panel.
2. Double-click on the System icon in the Control Panel window.
3. Select the Device Manager tab and double-click on System devices.
4. Double-click on Advanced Power Management support to display its properties. Select the Settings tab and make sure the check box for enabling power management support is selected.
Refer to the Windows 95 user’s guide for details.
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Options

This notebook offers excellent connectivity and expansion capabilities with its built-in ports and connectors. This chapter describes how to connect peripherals and hardware options1 to the notebook. When connecting peripherals, read the manual included with the peripheral for operating instructions.
This chapter also includes information on the key components that you can upgrade. Key component upgradeability gives you the room to enhance the notebook to meet your future needs.
Chapter 4
1
For complete options available, consult your dealer.
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4.1 External Monitor
To show graphical effects on a larger display, you can connect an external monitor to the CRT port ( ) on the rear panel. Read the monitor manual for additional instructions.
Figure 4-1 Connecting an External Monitor
You can press -p to toggle the display output to the external CRT and back to the notebook display or simultaneously on both displays.
If an external monitor is connected to the notebook, the notebook will not enter the desired suspend mode if you close the display. To enter suspend mode, disconnect the monitor plug, open the display and close the display again.
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4.2 External Keyboard
This notebook has a keyboard with full-sized keys and an embedded keypad. If you feel more comfortable using a desktop keyboard, you can install a PS/2-compatible external keyboard.
To connect an external keyboard, plug the external keyboard into the PS/2 connector (
).
Figure 4-2 Connecting an External Keyboard
If you need to connect both external keyboard and PS/2 mouse simultaneously, you can purchase a PS/2 Y-cable from your dealer. See section 4.9.2.
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4.3 External Keypad
You can also use a 17-key numeric keypad for number-intensive data entry applications. To connect the keypad, plug in the keypad connector to the PS/2 port (
Figure 4-3 Connecting an External Keypad
) at the rear of the notebook.
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4.4 External Pointing Device
This notebook accepts either a serial mouse or PS/2-compatible mouse or similar pointing device.
Connecting an External Pointing Device
Plug a serial mouse into the serial port ( ) on the rear panel; plug a PS/2-compatible mouse into the PS/2 port (
To enable a serial mouse, you need to use the Add New Hardware tool in the Windows 95 Control Panel to detect and install the necessary drivers.
If you connect an external PS/2 mouse to the notebook, press
-| to enter suspend-to-memory mode. Then press any key
to return to enable the external mouse. Installing an external PS/2 mouse disables the built-in touchpad.
) on the rear panel.
(a) Serial Mouse
(b) PS/2 Mouse
Figure 4-4 Connecting an External Pointing Device
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Setting the External Mouse Location Parameter
After connecting the external mouse or similar pointing device, press -m to enter Setup and verify the location of the external pointing device. Select Power Saving Options to display the following screen:
Power Saving Options Page 1/1
When Lid is Closed ------------------ [ Suspend to Disk ] Suspend to Disk on Critical Battery - [Enabled ]
Display Always On ------------------- [Disabled] Internal Speaker -------------------- [Enabled ] External Mouse Location ------------- [PS/2] Internal Modem ---------------------- [Power-Off]
Resume On Modem Ring ---------------- [OFF] Resume On Schedule ------------------ [OFF] Resume Date --------------------- [12/31/99] Resume Time --------------------- [23:59:00]
= Move Highlight Bar, = Change Setting PgDn/PgUp = Move Screen, F1 = Help, Esc = Exit
Go to the External Mouse Location parameter and select COM1 if you connected your mouse to the serial port, and PS/2 if you connected your mouse to the PS/2 port.
The External Mouse Location parameter setting allows the notebook’s power management system to detect activity from the external pointing device. If you are using an external pointing device, make sure this parameter is set correctly.
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4.5 Printer
This notebook supports both serial and parallel printers. For a serial printer, plug the printer cable into a serial port ( ). For a parallel printer, plug the printer cable into the parallel port ( ). See your printer manual for operating instructions.
Figure 4-5 Connecting a Parallel Printer
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4.6 Audio Devices
You can connect audio devices to the line-in and line-out ports on the notebook. The line-in audio port doubles as a microphone-in port as well.
The line-in port accepts an external 3.5mm mini-jack microphone or other line-in devices. The line-out port accommodates external amplified speakers or headphones.
Figure 4-6 Connecting Audio Devices
To use Mic-in or Line in, insert the plug of the desired device and make sure to turn off the appropriate input from the mixer. See the multimedia section of your Windows 95 manual.
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4.7 Mini Dock
The mini dock serves as a docking base that allows you to connect your notebook to all the peripherals you need, even network connections with its built-in Ethernet support. Consult your dealer for details. A quick guide is included with the mini dock for easy and quick connection instructions.
Figure 4-7 Mini Dock
4.8 PC Cards
The notebook has two PC card slots that accommodate two type I/II or one type III PC card(s). Please consult your dealer for PC card options available that you can purchase for your notebook.
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4.9 Miscellaneous Options
4.9.1 Additional Power Packs
Lithium-Ion Battery Pack
It is good practice to have a spare battery pack around, especially when you travel. The Li-Ion (lithium-ion) smart battery supplies more power than a conventional NiMH (nickel metal-hydride) battery. With power management, you get even more power on-the-go.
Attaching the Battery Compartment Cover
Each battery pack comes attached with a battery compartment cover. In case the cover gets detached, follow these steps to re-attach the cover to the battery.
1. Position the battery compartment cover over the battery pack.
2. Using a little force, slide the battery compartment cover over the battery until both the cover and the battery are firmly attached.
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Detaching the Battery Compartment Cover
Gently pull up the battery compartment cover release latch and slide out the cover.
AC Adapter
You can purchase an additional AC adapter for your notebook or mini docking station.
The compact AC adapter charges your battery pack and supplies power to your notebook.
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4.9.2 Cables
Floppy Drive Cable
The floppy drive cable allows you to use your floppy drive module externally.
PS/2 Y-Bridge Cable
The PS/2 Y-bridge cable allows you to connect two PS/2 devices, mouse and keyboard, to your notebook simultaneously.
Open the port cover of the notebook and connect the 25-pin connector end of the floppy drive cable to the parallel port. Then connect the other end to the floppy drive module.
Connect the single connector end of the Y-bridge cable to the notebook’s PS/2 port and the double connector ends to the two PS/2 devices.
Take note of the icons on the double connector before connecting the devices.
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File Transfer Cable
For non SIR- (serial infrared) capable connections, you can use the file transfer cable to transfer data between the notebook and other computers. Connect the file transfer cable between the two computers and use your file transfer utility to perform the transfer.
Figure 4-8 Using the File Transfer Cable
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4.10 Key Component Upgrades
This notebook delivers the power and performance you need. However, some users and the applications they use may demand more. This notebook allows you to upgrade key components when you need increased performance.
Contact your authorized dealer if you decide to perform an upgrade.
4.10.1 Additional Memory
Memory is upgradeable from 8 to 64 MB, employing 64-bit soDIMMs (small outline Dual Inline Memory Modules) in 8, 16 and 32 MB configurations. The following table lists all possible memory configurations.
Table 4-1 Memory Configurations
Slot 1 Slot 2 Total Memory
0 MB 8 MB 8 MB 8 MB 0 MB 8 MB 8 MB 8 MB 16 MB 0 MB 16 MB 16 MB
16 MB 0 MB 16 MB
8 MB 16 MB 24 MB 16 MB 8 MB 24 MB 16 MB 16 MB 32 MB
0 MB 32 MB 32 MB 32 MB 0 MB 32 MB
8 MB 32 MB 40 MB 32 MB 8 MB 40 MB 16 MB 32 MB 48 MB 32 MB 16 MB 48 MB 32 MB 32 MB 64 MB
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Installing Memory
When installing memory, we recommend you seek the help of a qualified service technician. Improper installation may damage the memory module or the notebook, or cause a malfunction.
One of the two memory slots (Slot 2) is accessible via a memory expansion door on the base of the notebook. Follow these steps to install an additional memory module.
1. Do a Windows 95 shutdown. If you are not using the
notebook under Windows 95, you can use the Power-Off option by accessing the Eject Menu ( -t).
2. Close the display lid.
3. Turn the notebook over to
access the base.
4. Remove the screw that secure
the memory door and lift it up.
5. (1) Insert the memory module
diagonally into the slot, then (2) gently press down the module until it clicks into place.
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After new memory modules have been installed, the system automatically detects and reconfigures the total memory size.
To upgrade memory installed in the other slot (Slot 1), contact your dealer.
4.10.2 Hard Disk
You can have your hard disk upgraded to one with a higher capacity. The notebook uses a 2.5-inch Enhanced-IDE hard disk that is auto-detected by the system. The following table shows the currently supported hard disks.
Table 4-2 Hard Disk List
6. Replace the memory door and secure it with the screw.
7. Open the display to turn on the notebook.
Vendor Model Capacity Cylinders Heads Sectors
IBM DPRA-21215 1.2 GB 2358 16 63 IBM DMCA-21440 1.44 GB 2800 16 63 IBM DCRA-22160 2.0 GB 4200 16 63
Consult your dealer for additional hard disks that will be available in the future. You may use the empty spaces in the table to record these additional drives and their information.
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Software

This notebook comes pre-loaded with application software and system utilities. This chapter discusses some of these applications and how to make use of them.
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5.1 System Software
The notebook comes preloaded with the following software1:
Windows 95 or other operating systems
System utilities and applications
Suspend-to-disk utility (Sleep Manager)
Touchpad driver
Display driver
Audio driver
Modem driver and application
System core logic driver
File-transfer utility
PC Card slot driver and application
Other application software
The following sections discuss the software and how they work. For most of the software, make use of the online help provided by the software.
2
Accessing the Applications
To access most of the software applications, click on the Start button and select the application folder. Then click on the application icon to run the selected application.
1
The pre-loaded software may differ.
2
The modem driver and software are optimized for use only with the internal modem, and may not function properly with a different modem. For PCMCIA modems, use the software that came with your PC card modem. This driver is only preloaded on notebooks for the U.S. market.
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5.2 Sleep Manager
Notebooks usually feature built-in power-saving functions. In addition to the normal standby mode for power-saving, our notebooks are also capable of a power management feature called 0-volt suspend to hard disk. When a suspend event occurs, this built-in function saves all the system’s current status onto your hard disk in the form of a file. The system then shuts off the power. When the user resumes (e.g., opening the display), the system will restore the data from the hard disk and resume from where you left off upon leaving suspend mode.
Sleep Manager is a utility that reserves hard disk space needed to successfully perform the suspend-to-disk feature. The user can use this utility to create a contiguous area that resides on the hard disk. Once the reserved space is created, the notebook will be capable of the “0-Volt Suspend to Hard Disk” feature. User can also use this utility to remove the reserved space from the disk. In this case, the machine will not be able to enter 0-volt suspend mode.
Sleep Manager is functionally-connected with the Advanced Power Management (APM) system of Microsoft Windows. Sleep Manager uses many advanced APM functions. Sleep Manager is capable of auto-create and auto-recover features. If the system memory size was changed or the reserved space on the hard disk was corrupted, Sleep Manager will reallocate the hard disk space for you automatically.
5.2.1 Accessing the Sleep Manager
There are two ways to bring up the Sleep Manager:
Taskbar. Double-click on the Sleep Manager status icon if enabled.
Start menu
1. Click on the Start button.
2. Select Programs.
3. Select 0V Suspend Utility.
4. Select Sleep Manager.
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The Sleep Manager displays below:
Table 5-1 Sleep Manager Window Items
Item Description
Buttons Click to access the Sleep Manager functions Current Setting Displays the drive and size of the current reserved space
created by Sleep Manager.
On Board Information
Displays the different areas of system memory and their respective values. These system resources need to be stored before the system can enter 0-volt suspend mode, so the system can resume to the previous state successfully.
These system resources are the contents of:
Onboard memory (DRAM or dynamic memory)
Video RAM (VRAM or video memory)
SMRAM (static memory)
Others
The total size of these system resources is displayed as the recommended size in the dialog box.
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Table 5-1 Sleep Manager Window Items (continued)
Item Description
Recommended Size
Enable Indicator on the Taskbar
Displays the minimum size of the contiguous space you need for the 0-volt suspend-to-disk feature. The actual size may be a little bit more due to file system alignment.
When this checkbox is checked, the Sleep Manager status appears on the taskbar.
Double-click on the Sleep Manager status icon on the taskbar to bring up the main program, or simply rest your mouse pointer on the icon to display the current status.
5.2.2 Sleep Manager Functions
Create
The main purpose of Sleep Manager is to find and reserve a contiguous area on the hard disk. The user can allocate the space themselves by using the ‘Create’ function on the Sleep Manager utility. Once a suspend event occurs, the system will enter the suspend mode. If the user did not create the space or the system DRAM size been changed, Sleep Manager is invoked and begins the process of creating a space for the system.
When you click on the Create button, a dialog box pops up:
You can select OK to automatically create space for the 0-volt suspend feature. Sleep Manager displays the recommend size based on onboard system information. You can also choose Advance>>> to manually set the space settings and size. The advanced screen shows.
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Sleep Manager automatically checks the system configuration and displays the recommended size. The drive where the space will be created is defined by the system and will be the first available logical drive which has the requested contiguous free disk space on it. The recommended size is the minimum size needed to save the current system status.
If the program cannot find the required space on the hard disk during the space creation process, it shows a message box to inform the user.
Not Enough Space for Allocation
This is a common error message that appears when Sleep Manager is creating the space on the hard disk. There are several different reasons that may cause this error. One of the reasons is that the size of the free disk space on the specific drive is less than the required size. For example, if the onboard memory is 4MB and the VGA memory is 512KB, the total free disk space required will be 4608KB. If the total free disk space is less than 4608KB, the user has to delete some unnecessary files from the hard disk.
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Another possible reason is that the hard disk has enough free space, but this free space exists as small fragments. The free disk space that Sleep Manager requires needs to be contiguous. To solve this problem, the user can use tools such as SpeedDisk (Norton Utilities) or Disk Defragmenter (Windows 95) to compact these free disk spaces. The user can then run Sleep Manager utility again to reserve the space.
Another factor that causes the error is when the user employs disk compression utilities. Sleep Manager can work with most compression software. However, Sleep Manager can only create the space on a host drive. A host drive stores original file information and will not be compressed. The free space on the host drive is usually very small, so the user should use the command provide by these compression software to enlarge the size of the host (uncompressed) drive for Sleep Manager.
Remove
If you want to use or take back the reserved space, use the delete function of Sleep Manager by clicking on the Remove button. This deletion will result in the system not being able to enter 0-volt suspend mode. Instead, the system will only be able to enter standby mode.
Minimize
The user can minimize Sleep Manager by selecting the Minimize button. If the Enable indicator on taskbar is checked, Sleep Manager will then switch to the background by locating itself on the taskbar. You can pop-up the main program of Sleep Manager again by double-clicking whenever needed. If the Enable indicator on the taskbar is not checked, you have to select the Sleep Manager item from 0-Volt Suspend Utilities menu of Start button.
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Exit
The user can exit Sleep Manager by selecting the Exit button. Sleep Manager will then quit and disable the capability of auto-adjusting the reserved space size. Disconnecting this feature is NOT recommended.
5.2.3 Running Sleep Manager
Once Sleep Manager is installed on the disk, the system automatically loads this utility every time you start Windows 95. Sleep Manager resides in the background by appearing on the taskbar.
To change the settings of Sleep Manager, simply double-click on the Sleep Manager icon ( ) on the taskbar, or run the Sleep Manager program from the 0-Volt Suspend to Disk Utilities in the Programs menu.
The Sleep Manager icon may or may not appear on the taskbar. A checkbox in the Sleep Manager main screen determines whether to enable or disable the icon on the taskbar. When Sleep Manager has not created the space to be used for 0-volt suspend or if APM is not enabled, the exclamation icon will appear. If both Sleep Manager has not created the space to be used for 0-volt suspend and APM is not enabled, the icon appears with a red crossed circle .
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5.2.4 Sleep Manager Troubleshooting Tips
The following table lists the error messages you may receive with their corresponding solutions:
Table 5-2 Sleep Manager Error Messages and Solutions
Error Message Solution
BIOS not compliant with Sleep Manager.
This machine does not have a power management unit. You cannot run Sleep Manager without PMU.
The APM driver for Windows is not installed. Use Windows Setup to install the APM driver before you run Sleep Manager.
Requested disk space is not enough / The created file is not contiguous.
The [directory name] directory cannot be created. Enter another directory or try another drive.
The software has not been successfully installed. You must run Setup again.
Sleep Manager can only run on notebooks with a BIOS compatible with this computer.
Sleep Manager can only work on notebooks installed with a PMU.
See section 3.2.3 for steps on how to enable APM on your notebook.
If the free space is actually greater than the requested free space but not contiguous, use the Windows 95 defragment utility Disk Defragmenter to compact the hard disk drive space. Then run Sleep Manager again. If you run Sleep Manager under a DoubleSpace environment, make sure the free space on the host drive is larger than the required size for Sleep Manager.
The directory name that the user specified is not valid. Note that the user can create only one subdirectory at a time.
Sleep Manager is not completely installed. Try to install again.
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