ASUS A5 User Manual
Notebook PC
Hardware User’s Manual
E2160 / Jun 2005
Contents
1. Introducing the Notebook PC ..................................................................5
About This User’s Manual..........................................................................................6
Notes For This Manual..........................................................................................6
Preparing your Notebook PC.....................................................................................9
2. Knowing the Parts...................................................................................11
Top Side ...................................................................................................................12
Bottom Side .............................................................................................................14
Left Side...................................................................................................................16
Rear Side .................................................................................................................18
Right Side ................................................................................................................20
Front Side ................................................................................................................21
3. Getting Started ....................................................................................... 23
Power System..........................................................................................................24
Using AC Power ..................................................................................................24
Using Battery Power............................................................................................24
Charging the Battery Pack ..................................................................................24
Powering ON the Notebook PC ..........................................................................26
The Power-On Self Test (POST).........................................................................26
Battery Care ........................................................................................................26
Checking Battery Power......................................................................................27
Restarting or Rebooting ......................................................................................28
Powering OFF .....................................................................................................28
Special Keyboard Functions ....................................................................................29
Colored Hot Keys ................................................................................................29
Keyboard as Cursors...........................................................................................30
Microsoft Windows™ Keys .................................................................................30
Keyboard as a Numeric Keypad .........................................................................31
Instant Launch Keys and Status Indicators .............................................................31
Instant Launch Keys............................................................................................31
Status Indicators (top–left) ..................................................................................32
Status Indicators (front).......................................................................................33
CD Player Control Buttons and Indicator (on selected models) .........................34
2
Contents
4. Using the Notebook PC ......................................................................... 35
Models with Sonoma chipset ..............................................................................36
Operating System ....................................................................................................36
Support Software.................................................................................................36
Pointing Device ........................................................................................................36
Using the Touchpad.............................................................................................37
Touchpad Usage Illustrations ..............................................................................38
Caring for the Touchpad......................................................................................39
Removing a PC Card (PCMCIA).........................................................................40
Inserting a PC Card (PCMCIA) ...........................................................................40
Storage Devices.......................................................................................................41
PC Card (PCMCIA) Socket .................................................................................41
Optical Drive........................................................................................................42
Hard Disk Drive ...................................................................................................44
Flash Memory Card Reader................................................................................44
Modem Connection .............................................................................................44
Fast-Ethernet Connection ...................................................................................47
Power Management Modes .....................................................................................47
Full Power Mode & Maximum Performance........................................................47
ACPI ....................................................................................................................47
Suspend Mode ....................................................................................................47
Power Savings ....................................................................................................47
Power State Summary ........................................................................................48
Thermal Power Control .......................................................................................48
Stand by and Hibernate.......................................................................................49
Multimedia Connections...........................................................................................50
Multimedia Remote Controller (in selected models) ...........................................51
Multimedia Card-Sized Remote Controller (in selected models) ........................52
Appendix..................................................................................................... 53
Optional Accessories ...............................................................................................54
Glossary...................................................................................................................56
Declarations and Safety Statements .......................................................................60
Notebook PC Information.........................................................................................72
3
Contents
4
1. Introducing the Notebook PC
About This User’s Manual
Notes For This Manual
Safety Precautions
Preparing your Notebook PC
5
1 Introducing the Notebook PC
About This User’ s Manual
You are reading the Notebook PC User ’s Manual. This User’s Manual provides information on the
various components in the Notebook PC and how to use them. The following are major sections of this
User’s Manuals:
1. Introducing the Notebook PC
Introduces you to the Notebook PC and this User’s Manual.
2. Knowing the Parts
Gives you information on the Notebook PC’s components.
3. Getting Started
Gives you information on getting started with the Notebook PC.
4. Using the Notebook PC
Gives you information on using the Notebook PC’s components.
5. Appendix
Introduces you to optional accessories and gives additional information.
User’s Manual
Notes For This Manual
A few notes and warnings in bold are used throughout this guide that you should be aware of in order to
complete certain tasks safely and completely. These notes have different degrees of importance as
described below:
TIP: Tips and useful information for
completing tasks.
NOTE: Tips and information for special situations.
< >
[ ]
WARNING! Important information that
must be followed for safe operation.
IMPORTANT! Vital information that
must be followed to prevent damage
to data, components, or persons.
T ext enclosed in < > or [ ] represents a key on the keyboard; do not actually type the <
> or [ ] and the enclosed letters.
6
Introducing the Notebook PC 1
Safety Precautions
The following safety precautions will increase the life of the Notebook PC. Follow all precautions and
instructions. Except as described in this manual, refer all servicing to qualified personnel. Do not use
damaged power cords, accessories, or other peripherals. Do not use strong solvents such as thinners,
benzene, or other chemicals on or near the surface.
Disconnect the AC power and remove the battery pack(s) before cleaning. Wipe the
Notebook PC using a clean cellulose sponge or chamois cloth dampened with a solution of nonabrasive detergent and a few drops of warm water and remove any extra
moisture with a dry cloth.
DO NOT place on uneven or unstable
work surfaces. Seek servicing if the
casing has been damaged.
DO NOT press or touch the display
panel. Do not place together with small
items that may scratch or enter the Notebook PC.
DO NOT expose to dirty or dusty environments. DO NOT operate during
a gas leak.
DO NOT leave the Notebook PC on
your lap or any part of the body while
the Notebook PC is turned ON or is
charging in order to prevent discomfort or injury from heat exposure.
DO NOT expose to extreme temperatures
above 50˚C (122˚F) or to direct sunlight.
Do not block the fan vents!
DO NOT place or drop objects on top
and do not shove any foreign objects
into the Notebook PC.
DO NOT expose to strong magnetic
or electrical fields.
DO NOT expose to or use near liquids, rain, or moisture. DO NOT use
the modem during an electrical storm.
DO NOT throw batteries in fires as
they may explode. Check local codes
for special battery disposal instructions.
DO NOT expose to extreme temperatures (below 0˚C (32˚F), otherwise the
Notebook PC may not boot.
SAFE TEMP: This notebook PC
should only be used in environments
with ambient temperatures between
0°C (32°F) and 35°C (95°F).
INPUT RATING: Must only receive
power input of 19VDC, 3.42A (65W).
7
1 Introducing the Notebook PC
Transportation Precautions
T o prepare the Notebook PC for transport, you should turn it OFF and disconnect
all external peripherals to prevent damage to the connectors. The hard disk
drive’ s head retracts when the power is turned OFF to prevent scratching of the
hard disk surface during transport. Therefore, you should not transport the
Notebook PC while the power is still ON. Close the display panel and check
that it is latched securely in the closed position to protect the keyboard and
display panel.
Cover Your Notebook PC
Use a carrying case such as the one supplied with your Notebook PC to protect it from dirt, water,
shock, and scratches.
NOTE: The surface glaze is easily dulled if not properly cared for. Be careful not to rub
or scrap the Notebook PC surfaces when transporting your Notebook PC.
Charge Your Batteries
If you intend to use battery power, be sure to fully charge your battery pack and any optional battery
packs before going on long trips. Remember that the power adapter charges the battery pack as long as
it is plugged into the computer and an AC power source. Be aware that it takes much longer to charge
the battery pack when the Notebook PC is in use.
Airplane Precautions
Contact your airline if you want to use the Notebook PC on the airplane. Most airlines will have
restrictions for using electronic devices. Most airlines will allow electronic use only between and not
during takeoffs and landings.
CAUTION! There are three main types of airport security devices: X-ray machines
(used on items placed on conveyor belts), magnetic detectors (used on people walking through security checks), and magnetic wands (hand-held devices used on people
or individual items). Y ou can send your Notebook PC and diskettes through airport Xray machines. However, it is recommended that you do not send your Notebook PC or
diskettes through airport magnetic detectors or expose them to magnetic wands.
8
Introducing the Notebook PC 1
Preparing your Notebook PC
These are only quick instructions for using your Notebook PC. Read the later pages for detailed
information on using your Notebook PC.
1. Install the battery pack
2. Connect the AC Power Adapter
3
2
1
3. Open the Display Panel 4. Turn ON the Notebook PC
WARNING! When opening, do not force
the display panel down to the table or else
the hinges may break! Never lift the Notebook PC by the display panel!
Press the power button and release.
(In Windows XP, this button can also be used to
safely turn OFF the Notebook PC.)
9
1 Introducing the Notebook PC
10
2. Knowing the Parts
Basic sides of the Notebook PC
11
2 Knowing the Parts
6
1
2
Top Side
Refer to the diagram below to identify the components on this side of the Notebook PC. Details are
given starting from the top and going clockwise.
10
1
9
7
5
2
3
4
5
8
7
Microphone (Built-in)
The built-in mono microphone can be used for video conferencing, voice narrations, or simple audio
recordings.
Camera (on selected models)
The built-in camera allows picture taking or video recording. Can be used with voice conferencing and
other interactive applications.
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Knowing the Parts 2
3
4
567
8
010
9
Display Panel
The display panel functions the same as a desktop monitor . The Notebook PC uses an
active matrix TFT LCD, which provides excellent viewing like that of desktop monitors.
Unlike desktop monitors, the LCD panel does not produce any radiation or flickering,
so it is easier on the eyes. Use a soft cloth without chemical liquids (use plain water if
necessary) to clean the display panel.
Keyboard
The keyboard provides full-sized keys with comfortable travel (depth at which the keys can be depressed)
and palm rest for both hands. T wo W indows™ function keys are provided to help ease navigation in the
Windows™ operating system.
Stereo Speakers
The built-in stereo speaker system allows you to hear audio without additional attachments. The
multimedia sound system features an integrated digital audio controller that produces rich, vibrant
sound (results improved with external stereo headphones or speakers). Audio features are software
controlled.
Touchpad and Buttons
The touchpad with its buttons is a pointing device that provides the same functions as a desktop mouse.
A software-controlled scrolling function is available after setting up the included touchpad utility to
allow easy Windows or web navigation.
Status Indicators
Status indicator details are described in section 3.
CD Player Control Buttons
There are several CD control buttons integrated externally on the Notebook PC for convenient CD
playing. The buttons activate and control your operating system’s software audio player when the
Notebook PC is ON. When your Notebook PC is OFF, the CD control buttons activate a hardware CD
player function that allows you to listen to audio CDs without software. (See section 3 for more
information.)
Power Switch
The power switch allows powering ON and OFF the Notebook PC and recovering from STD. Use the
switch once to turn ON and once to turn OFF the Notebook PC. In Windows XP, this button can also be
used to safely turn OFF the Notebook PC. The power switch only works when the display panel is
opened.
1
Instant Keys
Instant keys allow you to launch frequently used applications with one push of a button. Details provided
later in this manual.
13
2 Knowing the Parts
3
Bottom Side
Refer to the diagram below to identify the components on this side of the Notebook PC. Details are
given starting from the top and going clockwise.
21
7
6
5 4
IMPORT ANT! The bottom of the Notebook PC can get very hot. Be careful when handling the Notebook PC while it is in operation or recently been in operation. High
temperatures are normal during charging or operation. DO NOT PUT THE NOTEBOOK
PC ON THE LAP OR OTHER P ARTS OF THE BODY T O AVOID INJURY FROM THE HEA T.
Air Vents
The air vents allow cool air to enter and warm air to exit the Notebook PC.
IMPORTANT! Make sure that paper, books, clothing, cables, or other objects do not
block any of the air vents or else overheating of the Notebook PC may occur.
14
Knowing the Parts 2
1
2
3
456
7
Memory (RAM) Compartment
The memory compartment provides expansion capabilities for additional memory . Additional memory
will increase application performance by decreasing hard disk access. The BIOS automatically detects
the amount of memory in the system and configures CMOS accordingly during the POST (Power-OnSelf-T est) process. There is no hardware or software (including BIOS) setup required after the memory
is installed. Visit an authorized service center or retailer for information on memory upgrades for your
Notebook PC. Only purchase expansion modules from authorized retailers of this Notebook PC to
ensure maximum compatibility and reliability.
Mini-PCI Compartment
An optional expansion card can be installed in the mini-PCI compartment. An optional wireless LAN
mini-PCI module enables you to stay connected to your LAN while “roaming” to meeting, conference
rooms, or other office locations. Full-time, real-time access to email, Internet, and network resources
means not only an expanded office space, but also greater productivity.
Name Card Holder
The Notebook PC has a name card holder glued to the bottom of the Notebook PC to hold identification
information on the user in case the Notebook PC is found by others.
Hard Disk Drive Compartment
The hard disk drive is secured in a compartment. Hard disk drive upgrades are to
be done by authorized service centers or dealers only.
Battery Pack
The battery pack is automatically charged when connected to an AC power source and maintains power to
the Notebook PC when AC power is not connected. This allows use when moving temporarily between
locations. Battery time varies by usage and by the specifications for this Notebook PC. The battery pack
cannot be disassembled and must be replaced as a single unit through an authorized vendor.
Battery Lock
The battery lock is used to keep the battery pack secured. Usage details are described in the battery
section later in this manual.
Central Processor Unit (CPU)
Some Notebook PC models feature a socketed-processor design to allow upgrading to faster processors
in the future. Some models feature a ULV design for compactness and may not be upgraded. Visit an
authorized service center or retailer for information on upgrades.
WARNING! End-user removal of the CPU or hard disk drive will void the warranty.
15
2 Knowing the Parts
1
234
Left Side
Refer to the diagram below to identify the components on this side of the Notebook PC.
1 2 43 5
7
8 9
6
10
11 12
Flash Memory Slot
Normally a PCMCIA or USB memory card reader must be purchased separately in order to
use memory cards from devices such as digital cameras, MP3 players, mobile phones, and
PDAs. This Notebook PC has a built-in memory card reader that can read many flash memory
cards as specified later in this manual. The built-in memory card reader is not only convenient,
but also faster than most other forms of memory card readers because it utilizes the highbandwidth PCI bus.
Audio Video Input (no function on models without TV tuner)
The audio video input is featured on selected models and provide a way of inputting audio
and video signals through RCA jacks or S-V ideo (requires the 1/8” to RCA adapter included
with selected models). This function only works when purchased with the TV tuner hardware
and software package.
IEEE1394 Port
IEEE1394 is a high speed serial bus like SCSI but has simple connections and hotplugging capabilities like USB. The interface IEEE1394 has a bandwidth of 100-400
Mbits/sec and can handle up to 63 units on the same bus. IEEE1394 is also used in highend digital equipment and should be marked “DV” for Digital Video port.
Antenna Input (no function on models without TV tuner)
The antenna input is for TV or FM Radio (on selected models) frequency signal and allows
for use with the provided digital TV/FM antenna or input from subscription television
services. The provided antenna can receive digital TV or FM radio. Cable service connection
can receive digital TV, analog TV, or FM radio depending on paid services. The provided
adapter is necessary to change the coaxial plug to fit the slim Notebook PC.
The antenna will not be provided for models with FM radio and no TV.
Instead, the Notebook PC will receive FM radio signals through any standard 1/8 inch audio cable as those on earphones or external speakers.
16
Knowing the Parts 2
56789
010
1
212
Microphone Input Jack
The mono microphone jack (1/8 inch) can be used to connect an external microphone or output
signals from audio devices. Using this jack automatically disables the built-in microphone. Use
this feature for video conferencing, voice narrations, or simple audio recordings.
SPDIF Output Jack
This jack provides connection to SPDIF (Sony/Philips Digital Interface) compliant devices
for digital audio output. Use this feature to turn the Notebook PC into a hi-fi home
Combo
entertainment system.
Headphone Output Jack
The stereo headphone jack (1/8 inch) is used to connect the Notebook PC’s audio out signal to
amplified speakers or headphones. Using this jack automatically disables the built-in speakers.
Infrared Port (IrDA)
The infrared (IrDA) communication port allows convenient wireless data communication
with infrared-equipped devices or computers. This allows easy wireless synchronization
with PDAs or mobile phones and even wireless printing to printers. If your office supports
IrDA networking, you can have wireless connection to a network anywhere provided there
is a direct line of sight to an IrDA node. Small of fices can use IrDA technology to share a printer between
several closely placed Notebook PCs and even send files to each other without a network.
PC Card Slot
One PCMCIA 2.1 compliant PC Card socket is available to support one type I/II PC card. The
socket supports 32-bit CardBus. This allows accommodation of ASUS Notebook PC expansion
options such as memory cards, ISDN, SCSI, Smart Cards, and wireless network adapters.
PC Card Eject
Use this button to eject optional PC cards. This button is mechanical (not electronic) so a small
force is required and the ASUS Notebook PC does not have to be turned ON to eject PC cards.
1
1
1
Optical Drive
The ASUS Notebook PC comes in various models with different optical drives. The
ASUS Notebook PC’s optical drive may support compact discs (CD) and/or digital video
discs (DVD) and may have recordable (R) or re-writable (RW) capabilities. See the
marketing specifications for details on each model.
Electronic Eject (Optical Drive)
The optical drive eject has an electronic eject button for opening the tray . You can also eject
the optical drive tray through any software player or by right clicking the optical drive in
Windows™ “My Computer.”
Emergency Eject (Optical Drive)
The emergency eject can be pressed with a straightened paper clip and is used to eject the
optical drive tray in case the electronic eject does not work. Do not use the emergency
eject in place of the electronic eject.
17
2 Knowing the Parts
2.0
1
234
5
Rear Side
Refer to the diagram below to identify the components on this side of the Notebook PC.
1 2 43 5 76 8
Kensington® Lock Port
The Kensington® lock port allows the ASUS Notebook PC to be secured using
Kensington® compatible ASUS Notebook PC security products. These security products
usually include a metal cable and lock that prevent the ASUS Notebook PC to be removed
from a fixed object. Some security products may also include a motion detector to sound
an alarm when moved.
Emergency Shutdown Button
In case your operating system cannot properly turn OFF or restart, the emergency shutdown
button can be pressed with a straightened paper clip.
Display (Monitor) Output
The 15-pin D-sub monitor port supports a standard VGA-compatible device such as a
monitor or projector to allow viewing on a larger external display.
TV-Out Port
The TV-Out port is an S-Video connector that allows routing the ASUS
Notebook PC’s display to a television or video projection device. You can
choose between simultaneouly or single display. Use an S-Video cable (not
provided) for high quality displays or use the provided RCA to S-V ideo adapter
for standard video devices. This port supports both NTSC and PAL formats.
USB Port (2.0/1.1)
The Universal Serial Bus is compatible with USB 2.0 or USB 1.1 devices such as
keyboards, pointing devices, cameras, hard disk drives, printers, and scanners connected
in a series up to 12Mbits/sec (USB 1.1) and 480Mbits/sec (USB 2.0). USB allows
many devices to run simultaneously on a single computer, with peripherals such as USB keyboards and
some newer monitors acting as additional plug-in sites or hubs. USB supports hot-swapping of devices
so that most peripherals can be connected or disconnected without restarting the computer.
18
Knowing the Parts 2
678
Parallel Port
The 25-pin D-sub parallel/printer port supports native parallel devices such as laser/inkjet
printers, or parallel-adapted device such as external hard drives, removable drives, or
scanners.
LAN Port
The RJ-45 LAN port with eight pins is larger than the RJ-11 modem port and supports
a standard Ethernet cable for connection to a local network. The built-in connector
allows convenient use without additional adapters.
Modem Port
The RJ-11 modem port with two pins is smaller than the RJ-45 LAN port and supports
a standard telephone cable. The internal modem supports up to 56K V.90 transfers.
The built-in connector allows convenient use without additional adapters.
IMPORTANT! The built-in modem does not support the voltage used in digital
phone systems. Do not connect the modem port to a digital phone system or else
damage will occur to the Notebook PC.
19
2 Knowing the Parts
2.0
1
2
3
Right Side
Refer to the diagram below to identify the components on this side of the Notebook PC.
1 2 3
USB Port (2.0/1.1)
The Universal Serial Bus is compatible with USB 2.0 or USB 1.1 devices such as
keyboards, pointing devices, cameras, hard disk drives, printers, and scanners connected
in a series up to 12Mbits/sec (USB 1.1) and 480Mbits/sec (USB 2.0). USB allows
many devices to run simultaneously on a single computer, with peripherals such as USB keyboards and
some newer monitors acting as additional plug-in sites or hubs. USB supports hot-swapping of devices
so that most peripherals can be connected or disconnected without restarting the computer.
Power (DC) Input
The supplied power adapter converts AC power to DC power for use with this jack.
Power supplied through this jack supplies power to the ASUS Notebook PC and char ges
the internal battery pack. To prevent damage to the ASUS Notebook PC and battery
pack, always use the supplied power adapter.
Air Vents
The air vents allow cool air to enter and warm air to exit the Notebook PC.
IMPORTANT! Make sure that paper, books, clothing, cables, or other objects do not
block any of the air vents or else overheating of the Notebook PC may occur.
20
Knowing the Parts 2
1
2
Front Side
Refer to the diagram below to identify the components on the front side of the Notebook PC.
1 2
Display Panel Latch
One spring-loaded latch on the front of the Notebook PC locks the display panel in the closed position
when the Notebook PC is not in use. T o open the display panel, negotiate the latch with your thumb and
lift up the display panel with the same thumb. Slowly tilt the display panel forward or backward to a
comfortable viewing angle.
WARNING! When opening, do not force the display panel down to the table or else
the hinges may break! Never lift the Notebook PC by the display panel!
CIR (Consumer Infrared) Port
The consumer infrared (IrDA) communication port allows convenient wireless control of the
provided multimedia software in selected models using the provided wireless remote control in
selected models.
ON/OFF TV MUSIC
PICTURES VIDEO
BACK SELECT
VOL CH
DVD/MENU
SETUP MENU
RADIO
OK
PLAY/PAUSE
STOP FWDREW
RECORD
FULL SCREENMUTE
JUMP
21
2 Knowing the Parts
22
3. Getting Started
Using AC Power
Using Battery Power
Powering ON the Notebook PC
Checking Battery Power
Restarting or Rebooting
Powering OFF the Notebook PC
Special Keyboard Functions
Instant Keys and Status Indicators
23
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