Asus X61Z User Manual

Notebook PC

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Hardware User’s Manual

E4249 / November 2008

Contents

Table of Contents

1. Introducing the Notebook PC

About This User’s Manual �� 6

Notes For This Manual �� 6

Safety Precautions �� 7 Preparing your Notebook PC��9

2. Knowing the Parts

Top Side��12 Bottom Side ��14 Left Side �� 16 Right Side ��18 Rear Side��19 Front Side ��21

3. Getting Started

Power System �� 24

Using AC Power �� 24 Using Battery Power �� 25 Battery Care �� 26 Powering ON the Notebook PC �� 27 The Power-On Self Test (POST) ��27 Checking Battery Power �� 28 Charging the Battery Pack �� 28 Power Options �� 29 Power Management Modes �� 30 Sleep and Hibernate �� 30 Thermal Power Control �� 30

Special Keyboard Functions �� 31

Colored Hot Keys �� 31 Microsoft Windows Keys �� 33 Extended Keyboard �� 33

Switches and Status Indicators �� 34

Switches�� 34

Switches and Status Indicators (cont.) �� 35

Multimedia Control Keys (on selected models) �� 37

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Contents

Table of Contents (Cont.)

4. Using the Notebook PC

Pointing Device��40

Using the Touchpad ��40 Touchpad Usage Illustrations �� 41 Caring for the Touchpad ��42 Automatic Touchpad Disabling (Synaptics) �� 42

Storage Devices ��43

Expansion Card �� 43 Optical Drive �� 44 Flash Memory Card Reader �� 46 Hard Disk Drive �� 47 Memory (RAM)�� 49

Connections��50

Network Connection �� 51 Wireless LAN Connection (on selected models) �� 52 Windows Wireless Network Connection �� 53 Bluetooth Wireless Connection (on selected models) �� 54

Appendix

Optional Accessories �� A-2

Optional Connections �� A-3 Bluetooth Mouse Setup (optional) �� A-4

Operating System and Software�� A-6

System BIOS Settings �� A-7 Common Problems and Solutions �� A-10 Windows Vista Software Recovery �� A-16

Glossary �� A-18 Declarations and Safety Statements �� A-22 Notebook PC Information �� A-32

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1. Introducing the Notebook PC

About This User’s Manual Notes For This Manual Safety Precautions Preparing your Notebook PC

There may be differences between your Notebook PC and the drawings shown in this manual. Please accept your Notebook PC as being correct.

Photos and icons in this manual are used for artistic purposes only and do not show what is actually used in the product itself.

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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.

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:

NOTE: Tips and information for special situations.

TIP: Tips and useful information for completing tasks.

IMPORTANT! Vital information that must be followed to prevent damage to data, components, or persons.

WARNING! Important information that must be followed for safe operation.

< >

Text enclosed in < > or [ ] represents a key on the keyboard; do not actually type the < > or [ ] and the enclosed letters.

[ ]

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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 qualied 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.

IMPORTANT! 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 in order to prevent discomfort or injury from heat exposure.

SAFE TEMP: This Notebook PC should only be used in environments with ambient temperatures between 10°C (50°F) and 35°C (95°F)

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.

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 elds.

DO NOT expose to or use near liquids, rain, or moisture. DO NOT use the modem during an electrical storm.

Battery safety warning: DO NOT throw the battery in re. DO NOT short circuit the contacts. DO NOT disassemble the battery.

INPUT RATING: Refer to the rat-

ing label on the bottom of the Notebook PC and be sure that your power adapter complies with the rating.

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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1 Introducing the Notebook PC

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.

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.

Models with 3G

and must be used in places that do not prohibit such devices. Take precautions while using.

WARNING! The 3G function needs to be switched OFF in areas with potentially explosive atmospheres such as petrol (gas) stations, chemical storage depots, and blasting operations.

(1)

(See end of Section 4 for denition)

(1)

: Produces radio wave emissions that may cause electrical interferences

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HDMI

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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. Open the Display Panel 4. Turn ON the Notebook PC

IMPORTANT! 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!

The power switch turns ON and OFF the Notebook PC or putting the Notebook PC into sleep or hibernation modes. Actual behavior of the power switch can be customized in Windows

Control Panel > Power Options > System Settings.

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2. Knowing the Parts

Basic sides of the Notebook PC

There may be differences between your Notebook PC and the drawings shown in this manual. Please accept your Notebook PC as being correct.

Photos and icons in this manual are used for artistic purposes only and do not show what is actually used in the product itself.

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2 Knowing the Parts

Top Side

Refer to the illustration below to identify the components on this side of the Notebook PC.

The keyboard differs for each territory.

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Knowing the Parts 2

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Camera (on selected models)

The built-in camera allows picture taking or video recording. Can be used with video conferencing and other interactive applications.

Camera Indicator

The camera indicator shows when the built-in camera is in use. The camera may be auto-activated by supported software.

Microphone (Built-in)

The built-in mono microphone can be used for video conferencing, voice narrations, or simple audio recordings.

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 ickering, so it is easier on the eyes. Use a soft cloth without chemical liquids (use plain water if necessary) to clean the display panel.

Status Indicators (top)

Status indicators represent various hardware/software conditions. See indicator details in section 3.

Instant Keys

Instant keys allow you to launch frequently used applications with one push of a button. Details are described in section 3.

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Power Switch

The power switch turns ON and OFF the Notebook PC or putting the Notebook PC into sleep or hibernation modes. Actual behavior of the power switch can be customized in Windows Control Panel “Power Options.”

Keyboard

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.

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.

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2 Knowing the Parts

Bottom Side

Refer to the illustration below to identify the components on this side of the Notebook PC.

The bottom side may vary in appearance depending on model.

The battery pack size varies depending on model.

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.

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Knowing the Parts 2

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Battery Lock - Manual

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.

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 specications for this Notebook PC. The battery pack cannot be disassembled and must be purchased as a single unit.

Hard Disk Drive Compartment

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.

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 congures accordingly. 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.

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2 Knowing the Parts

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Left Side

Refer to the illustration below to identify the components on this side of the Notebook PC.

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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.

USB Port (2.0/1.1)

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.

Wireless Switch

Enables or disables the built-in wireless LAN and Bluetooth (selected models). When enabled, the wireless status indicator will light. Windows software settings are necessary before use.

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Knowing the Parts 2

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ExpressCard Slot

One 26pin Express card slot is available to support one ExpressCard/34mm or one ExpressCard/54mm expansion card. This new interface is faster by using a serial bus supporting USB 2.0 and PCI Express instead of the slower parallel bus used in the PC card slot. (Not compatible with previous PCMCIA cards.) The dummy expansion card that comes with the Notebook PC can function as a memory card holder (on selected models), which protects the conductors of your ash memory card.

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- 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 amplied speakers or headphones. Using this jack automatically disables the built-in speakers.

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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.

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2 Knowing the Parts

Right Side

Refer to the illustration below to identify the components on this side of the Notebook PC.

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Optical Drive

The Notebook PC comes in various models with different optical drives. The 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 specications for details on each model.

Optical Drive Electronic Eject

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. This eject also functions as the optical drive activity indicator which shows when data is being transferred by the optical disk drive. This indicator will light in proportion to the data size transferred.

Optical Drive Emergency Eject (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.

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Knowing the Parts 2

2.0

Rear Side

Refer to the illustration below to identify the components on this side of the Notebook PC.

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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 xed object. Some may also include a motion detector to sound an alarm when moved.

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. CAUTION: MAY BECOME WARM TO HOT WHEN IN

USE. BE SURE NOT TO COVER THE ADAPTER AND KEEP IT AWAY FROM YOUR BODY.

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 may occur.

USB Port (2.0/1.1)

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 plugin sites or hubs. USB supports hot-swapping of devices so that most peripherals can be connected or disconnected without restarting the computer.

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2 Knowing the Parts

HDMI

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HDMI Port

HDMI (High-Denition 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-denition video, plus multichannel 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.

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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.

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Knowing the Parts 2

Front Side

Refer to the illustration below to identify the components on this side of the Notebook PC.

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Audio Speaker

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.

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 ash memory cards as mentioned later in this manual.

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3. Getting Started

Using AC Power Using Battery Power Powering ON the Notebook PC Checking Battery Power Powering Options Power Management Modes Special Keyboard Functions Switches and Status Indicators

There may be differences between your Notebook PC and the drawings shown in this manual. Please accept your Notebook PC as being correct.

Photos and icons in this manual are used for artistic purposes only and do not show what is actually used in the product itself.

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HDMI

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3 Getting Started

Power System

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.

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.

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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Getting Started 3

Using Battery Power

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:

IMPORTANT! Only use battery packs and power adapters supplied with this Notebook PC or specically approved by the manufacturer or retailer for use with this model or else damage may occur to the Notebook PC.

Ensure that the pull tab of the battery pack is not blocked when installing the battery pack, or there might be trouble removing the battery pack.

To remove the battery pack:

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3 Getting Started

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 re, 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.

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Getting Started 3

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 conguration, press [F2] upon bootup to enter the BIOS Setup. If you press [Tab] during the splash screen, standard boot information such as the BIOS version can be seen. Press [ESC] and you will be presented with a boot menu with selections to boot from your available drives.

Before bootup, the display panel ashes 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 rst 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 conguration, 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 conict by running BIOS Setup. In most cases the record should be correct when you receive the Notebook PC. When the test is nished, 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.

Self Monitoring and Reporting Technology

The S.M.A.R.T. (Self Monitoring and Reporting Technology) checks the hard disk drive during POST and gives a warning message if the hard disk drive requires servicing. If any critical hard disk drive warning is given during bootup, backup your data immediately and run Windows disk checking program. To run Window’s disk checking program: click Start > select Computer > right-click a hard disk drive icon > choose Properties > click the Tools tab > click Check Now > click Start. You can also select “Scan ... sectors” for more effective scan and repair but the process will run slower.

IMPORTANT! If warnings are still given during bootup after running a software disk checking utility, you should take your Notebook PC in for servicing. Continued use may result in data loss.

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