ASUS X55A, X55U User Manual
E7051
Notebook PC User Manual
January 2012
Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Introducing the Notebook PC
About This User’s Manual ................................................................................ 6
Notes for This Manual ....................................................................................... 6
Safety Precautions ............................................................................................. 7
Preparing your Notebook PC .......................................................................11
Chapter 2: Knowing the parts
Top Side ...............................................................................................................14
Bottom Side ........................................................................................................16
Right Side ............................................................................................................19
Left Side ...............................................................................................................20
Rear Side .............................................................................................................. 24
Front Side ............................................................................................................ 24
Chapter 3: Getting Started
Power System ....................................................................................................26
Using AC Power ...............................................................................................26
Using Battery Power ......................................................................................28
Battery Care ......................................................................................................29
Powering ON the Notebook PC .................................................................30
The Power-On Self Test (POST) ..................................................................30
Checking Battery Power ...............................................................................32
Charging the Battery Pack ...........................................................................33
Power Options .................................................................................................34
Power Management Modes .......................................................................36
Sleep and Hibernate ......................................................................................36
Thermal Power Control .................................................................................38
Special Keyboard Functions .........................................................................39
Colored Hot Keys (on selected models) .................................................39
Microsoft Windows Keys ..............................................................................42
Multimedia Control Keys .............................................................................43
Switches and Status Indicators ...................................................................44
Switches .............................................................................................................44
Status Indicators .............................................................................................45
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Notebook PC User Manual
Chapter 4: Using the Notebook PC
Pointing device .................................................................................................48
Using the Touchpad .......................................................................................49
Touchpad usage illustrations .....................................................................50
Caring for the Touchpad ..............................................................................52
Disabling the Touchpad automatically ...................................................53
Storage Devices ................................................................................................54
Optical Drive (on selected models) ..........................................................54
Flash Memory Card Reader .........................................................................58
Hard Disk Drive ................................................................................................59
Memory (RAM) .................................................................................................62
Connections .......................................................................................................63
Network Connection .....................................................................................63
Wireless LAN Connection (on selected models) .................................65
Windows Wireless Network Connection ................................................67
Bluetooth Wireless Connection(on selected models) .......................69
USB Charger+ ....................................................................................................72
Appendix
Optional Accessories .....................................................................................A-2
Optional Connections .................................................................................A-2
Operating System and Software ...............................................................A-3
System BIOS Settings ..................................................................................A-4
Common Problems and Solutions ......................................................A-10
Recovering Your Notebook PC ............................................................... A-16
Using Recovery Partition ....................................................................... A-16
Using Recovery DVD (on selected models) ...................................... A-17
DVD-ROM Drive Information .................................................................. A-19
Blu-ray ROM Drive Information(on selected models) .................... A-21
Internal Modem Compliancy .................................................................. A-22
Declarations and Safety Statements .................................................... A-26
Federal Communications Commission Statement ........................A-26
FCC Radio Frequency (RF) Exposure Caution Statement ............ A-27
Declaration of Conformity(R&TTE directive 1999/5/EC) .............. A-27
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3
CE Marking ................................................................................................... A-28
IC Radiation Exposure Statement for Canada ................................. A-28
Wireless Operation Channel for Different Domains ...................... A-29
France Restricted Wireless Frequency Bands ..................................A-29
UL Safety Notices .......................................................................................A-31
Power Safety Requirement ....................................................................A-32
TV Tuner Notices ........................................................................................A-32
REACH ........................................................................................................ A-32
Nordic Lithium Cautions (for lithium-ion batteries) ...................... A-33
Optical Drive Safety Information .........................................................A-34
Laser Safety Information ......................................................................... A-34
Service warning label ............................................................................... A-34
CDRH Regulations ..................................................................................... A-34
Macrovision Corporation Product Notice ......................................... A-35
CTR 21 Approval(for Notebook PC with built-in Modem) .......... A-36
European Union Eco-label ...................................................................... A-38
Global Environmental Regulation Compliance and
Declaration .................................................................................................. A-39
ASUS Recycling/Takeback Services ..................................................... A-39
Copyright Information .............................................................................. A-40
Limitation of Liability ................................................................................. A-41
Service and Support ................................................................................... A-41
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Notebook PC User Manual
Chapter 1:
Introducing the
Notebook PC
1
About This User’s Manual
You are reading the Notebook PC User’s Manual. This User’s Manual
provides information regarding the various components in the
Notebook PC and how to use them. The following are major sections
of this User’s Manual:
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.
The actual bundled operating system and applications differ by
models and territories. There may be differences between your
Notebook PC and the pictures shown in this manual. Please
accept your Notebook PC as being correct.
Notes for This Manual
A few notes and warnings are used throughout this guide, allowing
you to complete certain tasks safely and effectively. These notes have
different degrees of importance as follows:
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.
TIP: Tips for completing tasks.
NOTE: Information for special situations.
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Notebook PC User Manual
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.
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 expose to dirty
or dusty environments.
DO NOT operate during a
gas leak.
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 leave the
Notebook PC on your lap
or any part of the body
to prevent discomfort
or injury from heat
exposure.
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
electrical storms.
Battery safety warning:
DO NOT throw the
battery in fire. DO NOT
short circuit the contacts.
DO NOT disassemble the
battery.
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7
SAFE TEMP: This
Notebook PC should
only be used in
environments with
ambient temperatures
between 5°C (41°F) and
35°C (95°F).
INPUT RATING: Refer to
the rating label on the
bottom of the Notebook
PC and be sure that your
power adapter complies
with the rating.
DO NOT carry or cover
a Notebook PC that
is powered ON with
any materials that will
reduce air circulation
DO NOT use strong
solvents such as
thinners, benzene, or
other chemicals on or
near the surface.
such as a carrying bag.
DO NOT use damaged
power cords, accessories,
or other peripherals.
Incorrect installation
of battery may cause
explosion and damage
the Notebook PC.
DO NOT throw the Notebook PC in municipal waste. This
product has been designed to enable proper reuse of parts
and recycling. The symbol of the crossed out wheeled bin
indicates that the product (electrical, electronic equipment
and mercury-containing button cell battery) should not
be placed in municipal waste. Check local regulations for
disposal of electronic products.
DO NOT throw the battery in municipal waste. The symbol
of the crossed out wheeled bin indicates that the battery
should not be placed in municipal waste.
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Notebook PC User Manual
Sound Pressure warning
Excessive sound pressure from earphones or headphones can cause
hearing damage or loss. Adjustment of the volume control as well as
the equalizer to settings other than the center position may increase
the earphones or headphones output voltage and the sound
pressure level.
DC Fan warning
Please note that the DC fan is a moving part that may cause DANGER.
Ensure to keep your body from the moving fan blades.
Adapter Information
Input voltage: 100-240Vac
Input frequency: 50-60Hz
Rating output current: 3.42A(65W)/ 4.74A(90W)
Rating output voltage: 19Vdc
Transportation Precautions
To 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.
CAUTION! The Notebook PC’s surface is easily dulled if not
properly cared for. Be careful not to rub or scrape the Notebook
PC surfaces.
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9
Cover Your Notebook PC
Purchase a carrying bag to protect the Notebook PC from dirt, water,
shock, and scratches.
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). You can send your Notebook
PC and diskettes through airport X-ray 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.
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Notebook PC User Manual
Preparing your Notebook PC
1
2
3
110V-220V
2
1
3
These are only quick instructions for using your Notebook PC.
Installing the Battery Pack
Connecting the Power Adapter
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11
Opening the LCD display panel
1. Carefully lift up the display panel with your thumb.
2. Slowly tilt the display panel forward or backward to a
comfortable viewing angle.
Turning on the Power
1. Push and release the power button located beneath the LCD
display panel.
2. Use [Fn]+[F5] or [Fn]+[F6] to adjust the LCD brightness.
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Notebook PC User Manual
Chapter 2:
Knowing the parts
2
Top Side
2
4
3
5
7
6
1
The keyboard layout differs for each territory.
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Notebook PC User Manual
Microphone (Built-in)
1
The built-in mono microphone can be used for video
conferencing, voice narrations, or simple audio recordings.
2
Camera
The built-in camera allows picture taking or video
recording. Can be used with video conferencing and other
interactive applications.
3
Camera Indicator
The camera indicator shows when the built-in camera is in
use.
Display Panel
4
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.
5
Power Switch
The power switch allows powering ON and OFF the
Notebook PC and recovering from suspend mode. Use the
switch once to turn ON and once to turn OFF the Notebook
PC. The power switch only works when the display panel is
opened.
Keyboard
6
The keyboard provides full-sized keys with comfortable
travel (depth at which the keys can be depressed) and
palm rest for both hands. Two Windows function keys are
provided to help ease navigation in the Windows operating
system.
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15
7
Touchpad and Buttons
The touchpad with its buttons is a pointing device that
provides the same functions as a desktop mouse. A softwarecontrolled scrolling function is available after setting up the
included touchpad utility to allow easy Windows or web
navigation.
Bottom Side
The bottom side may vary in appearance depending on model.
The battery pack size varies depending on model.
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Notebook PC User Manual
WARNING! 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 USE ON SOFT SURFACES
SUCH AS BEDS OR SOFAS WHICH MAY BLOCK THE VENTS. DO
NOT PUT THE NOTEBOOK PC ON YOUR LAP OR OTHER PARTS
OF THE BODY TO AVOID INJURY FROM THE HEAT.
1
Battery Lock - Spring
The spring battery lock is used to keep the battery pack
secured. When the battery pack is inserted, it will automatically
lock. To remove the battery pack, this spring lock must be held
in the unlocked position.
2
Battery Pack
The battery pack is automatically charged when the Notebook
PC is 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 purchased as a single unit.
Battery Lock - Manual
3
The manual battery lock is used to keep the battery pack
secured. Move the manual lock to the unlocked position to
insert or remove the battery pack. Move the manual lock to
the locked position after inserting the battery pack.
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17
Memory (RAM) Compartment
4
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-On-Self-Test) 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.
Hard Disk Drive Compartment
5
The hard disk drive is secured in a compartment. Visit an
authorized service center or retailer for information on hard
disk drive upgrades for your Notebook PC. Only purchase
hard disk drives from authorized retailers of this Notebook
PC to ensure maximum compatibility and reliability.
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Notebook PC User Manual
Right Side
1 42 3
1
Optical Drive
The Notebook PC comes in various models with different
optical drives. The Notebook PC’s optical drive may support
compact discs (CD) ,digital video discs (DVD) and/or Blu-ray
discs (BD) and may have recordable (R) or re-writable (RW )
capabilities. See the marketing specifications for details on
each model.
Optical Drive Electronic Eject
2
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 “Computer” and selecting Eject.
Optical Drive Emergency Eject
3
(location varies by model)
The emergency eject 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.
4
Kensington® Lock Port
The Kensington® lock port allows the Notebook PC to be
secured using Kensington® compatible Notebook PC security
products. These security products usually include a metal
cable and lock that prevent the Notebook PC to be removed
from a fixed object. Some may also include a motion detector
to sound an alarm when moved.
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Left Side
3
5
2 41
9 106 7
3
5
6
2 41
87
5
4
6
2 31
87
17” model
15” model
14” model
20
1
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 Notebook PC and charges the
internal battery pack. To prevent damage to the Notebook
PC and battery pack, always use the supplied power
adapter.
The adapter may become warm to hot when in use. Ensure
not to cover the adapter and keep it away from your body.
Notebook PC User Manual
Air Vents
2
The air vents allow cool air to enter and warm air to exit the
Notebook PC.
LAN Port
3
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.
Display (Monitor) Output
4
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.
Ensure that paper, books, clothing, cables, or other objects
do not block any of the air vents or else overheating may
occur.
HDMI
5
HDMI Port
HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) is an
uncompressed all-digital audio/video interface between
any audio/video source, such as a set-top box, DVD player,
and A/V receiver and an audio and/or video monitor, such
as a digital television (DTV). Supports standard, enhanced,
or high-definition video, plus multi-channel digital audio
on a single cable. It transmits all ATSC HDTV standards and
supports 8-channel digital audio, with bandwidth to spare
to accommodate future enhancements or requirements.
Notebook PC User Manual
21
6
USB Port 2.0
The USB (Universal Serial Bus) port 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 some peripherals 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.
7
USB Port 3.0
The USB (Universal Serial Bus) port is compatible with USB
3.0, 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 4.8Gbits/sec (USB 3.0),
480Mbits/sec (USB 2.0), and 12Mbits/sec (USB 1.1). USB
allows many devices to run simultaneously on a single
computer, with some peripherals 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.
22
USB Charger+ (on selected models)
The feature allows you to charge your mobile phones or
digital audio players while your Notebook PC is working
under system power on mode.
8
/ Headphone Output / Microphone Input Combo Jack
This combo jack can be used to connect the Notebook PC’
s audio out signal to amplified speakers or headphones, or
can be used to connect an external microphone or output
signals from audio devices. This jack automatically detects
the connecting device and switches functions.
Notebook PC User Manual
9
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.
10
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.
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23
Rear Side
1
1
17”/ 15”/ 14” model
1
Battery Pack
The battery pack is automatically charged when the
Notebook PC is 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 purchased as a single
unit.
Front Side
17”/ 15”/ 14” model
1
Flash Memory Slot
Normally an external 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
high-speed memory card reader that can conveniently read
from and write to many flash memory cards.
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Notebook PC User Manual
Chapter 3:
Getting Started
3
Power System
1
2
3
110V-220V
Using AC Power
The Notebook PC power is comprised of two parts, the power
adapter and the battery power system. The power adapter converts
AC power from a wall outlet to the DC power required by the
Notebook PC. Your Notebook PC comes with a universal AC-DC
adapter. That means that you may connect the power cord to any
100V-120V as well as 220V-240V outlets without setting switches
or using power converters. Different countries may require that an
adapter be used to connect the provided US-standard AC power
cord to a different standard. Most hotels will provide universal
outlets to support different power cords as well as voltages. It is
always best to ask an experienced traveler about AC outlet voltages
when bringing power adapters to another country.
26
The actual location of the power input differs by models. Refer to
the previous chapter to locate the LAN port.
You can buy travel kits for the Notebook PC that includes power
and modem adapters for almost every country.
WARNING! DO NOT connect the AC power cord to an AC outlet
prior to connecting the DC plug to the Notebook PC. Doing so
may damage the AC-DC adapter.
Notebook PC User Manual
IMPORTANT! Damage may occur if you use a different adapter
to power the Notebook PC or use the Notebook PC’s adapter to
power other electrical devices. If there is smoke, burning scent,
or extreme heat coming from the AC-DC adapter, seek servicing.
Seek servicing if you suspect a faulty AC-DC adapter. You may
damage both your battery pack(s) and the Notebook PC with a
faulty AC-DC adapter.
This Notebook PC may come with either a two or three-prong
plug depending on territory. If a three-prong plug is provided,
you must use a grounded AC outlet or use a properly grounded
adapter to ensure safe operation of the Notebook PC.
WARNING! THE POWER ADAPTER MAY BECOME WARM TO HOT
WHEN IN USE. BE SURE NOT TO COVER THE ADAPTER AND KEEP
IT AWAY FROM YOUR BODY.
Unplug the power adapter or switch off the AC outlet to
minimize the power consumption when the Notebook PC is not
in use.
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27
Using Battery Power
2
1
3
The Notebook PC is designed to work with a removable battery pack.
The battery pack consists of a set of battery cells housed together.
A fully charged pack will provide several hours of battery life, which
can be further extended by using power management features
through the BIOS setup. Additional battery packs are optional and
can be purchased separately through a Notebook PC retailer.
Installing and Removing the Battery Pack
Your Notebook PC may or may not have its battery pack installed. If
your Notebook PC does not have its battery pack installed, use the
following procedures to install the battery pack.
IMPORTANT! Never attempt to remove the battery pack while
the Notebook PC is turned ON, as this may result in the loss of
working data.
To install the battery pack:
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Notebook PC User Manual
To remove the battery pack:
3
2
1
2
1
3
IMPORTANT! Only use battery packs and power adapters
supplied with this Notebook PC or specifically approved by the
manufacturer or retailer for use with this model or else damage
may occur to the Notebook PC.
Battery Care
The Notebook PC’s battery pack, like all rechargeable batteries, has
a limit on the number times it can be recharged. The battery pack’s
useful life will depend on your environment temperature, humidity,
and how your Notebook PC is used. It is ideal that the battery be
used in a temperature range between 10˚C and 35˚C (50˚F and
95˚F). You must also take into account that the Notebook PC’s
internal temperature is higher than the outside temperature. Any
temperatures above or below this range will shorten the life of the
battery. But in any case, the battery pack’s usage time will eventually
decrease and a new battery pack must be purchased from an
authorized dealer for this Notebook PC. Because batteries also have
a shelf life, it is not recommended to buy extras for storing.
WARNING! For safety reasons, DO NOT throw the battery in fire,
DO NOT short circuit the contacts, and DO NOT disassemble the
battery. If there is any abnormal operation or damage to the
battery pack caused by impact, turn OFF the Notebook PC and
contact an authorized service center.
Notebook PC User Manual
29
Powering ON the Notebook PC
The Notebook PC’s power-ON message appears on the screen when
you turn it ON. If necessary, you may adjust the brightness by using
the hot keys. If you need to run the BIOS Setup to set or modify the
system configuration, press [F2] upon bootup to enter the BIOS
Setup. Press [ESC] and you will be presented with a boot menu with
selections to boot from your available drives.
Before bootup, the display panel flashes when the power is
turned ON. This is part of the Notebook PC’s test routine and is
not a problem with the display.
IMPORTANT! To protect the hard disk drive, always wait at least
5 seconds after turning OFF your Notebook PC before turning it
back ON.
WARNING! DO NOT carry or cover a Notebook PC that is
powered ON with any materials that will reduce air circulation
such as a carrying bag.
The Power-On Self Test (POST)
When you turn ON the Notebook PC, it will first run through a
series of software-controlled diagnostic tests called the Power-On
Self Test (POST). The software that controls the POST is installed
as a permanent part of the Notebook PC’s architecture. The POST
includes a record of the Notebook PC’s hardware configuration,
which is used to make a diagnostic check of the system. This record
is created by using the BIOS Setup program. If the POST discovers
a difference between the record and the existing hardware, it will
display a message on the screen prompting you to correct the
conflict by running BIOS Setup. In most cases the record should be
correct when you receive the Notebook PC. When the test is finished,
you may get a message reporting “No operating system found” if the
hard disk was not preloaded with an operating system. This indicates
that the hard disk is correctly detected and ready for the installation
of a new operating system.
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Notebook PC User Manual
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