Compaq Armada 1100, Armada 1120 Reference Manual

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Notice

The information in this guide is subject to change without notice.
COMPAQ COMPUTER CORPORATION SHALL NOT BE LIABLE

FOR TECHNICAL OR EDITORIAL ERRORS OR OMISSIONS
CONTAINED HEREIN; NOR FOR INCIDENTAL OR
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES RESULTING FROM THE
FURNISHING, PERFORMANCE, OR USE OF THIS MATERIAL.

This guide contains information protected by copyright. No part of this
guide may be photocopied or reproduced in any form without prior written
consent from Compaq Computer Corporation.



1996 Compaq Computer Corporation.

All rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A.
Compaq, LTE, Contura, Registered U. S. Patent and Trademark Office.

Armada is a trademark of Compaq Computer Corporation.
Contura Registered in the Philippines Patent Office
Microsoft and MS-DOS are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.

Windows is a trademark of Microsoft Corporation.

The software described in this guide is furnished under a license
agreement or nondisclosure agreement. The software may be used or
copied only in accordance with the terms of the agreement.

Product names mentioned herein may be trademarks and/or registered
trademarks of their respective companies.

Reference Guide

Compaq Armada 1100 Family of Personal Computers

Second Edition (November 1996)
First Edition (June 1996)
Part Number 262446-002

Compaq Computer Corporation

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Federal Communications
Commission Notice

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the
limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC
Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference in a residential installation. This
equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy
and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions,
may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a
particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful
interference to radio or television reception, which can be
determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is
encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the
following measures:

Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

■

Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.

■

Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from

■

that to which the receiver is connected.
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio or television

■

technician for help.

Modifications

The FCC requires the user to be notified that any changes or
modifications made to this device that are not expressly approved by
Compaq Computer Corporation may void the user's authority to
operate the equipment.

Cables

Connections to this device must be made with shielded cables with
metallic RFI/EMI connector hoods to maintain compliance with
FCC Rules and Regulations.

Airline Travel Notice

Use of electronic equipment aboard commercial aircraft is at the
discretion of the airline.

v

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European Notice

Products with the CE Marking comply with both the EMC Directive
(89/336/EEC) and the Low Voltage Directive (73/23/EEC) issued by
the Commission of the European Community.

Compliance with these directives implies conformity to the
following European Norms:

EN55022 (CISPR 22)-Radio Frequency Interference

■

EN50082-1 (IEC801-2, IEC801-3, IEC801-4)-Electromagnetic

■

Immunity
EN60950 (IEC950)-Product Safety

■

Canadian Notice

This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the
Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations.

Avis Canadien

Cet appareil numérique de la classe B respecte toutes les exigences
du Règlement sur le matériel brouilleur du Canada.

Japanese Notice

vi

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Battery Notice

WARNING:

!

!

In North America, dispose of nickel metal hydride batteries by
taking advantage of the Compaq battery recycling program. You
will be provided with a postage-paid battery pack mailer
preaddressed to a reclamation facility where the metals are recycled.

In Europe, do not dispose of batteries with general
household waste. Dispose of or recycle them by
using the public collection system or returning them
to Compaq, your authorized Compaq Partners, or
their agents.

real-time clock circuit. There is a risk of explosion and injury if the
battery is incorrectly replaced or handled improperly. Do not attempt to
recharge, disassemble, immerse in water, or dispose of it in fire.
Replacement should be done by a Compaq authorized service provider
using the Compaq spare part for this computer.

WARNING:

There is a risk of fire and chemical burn if the battery pack is handled
improperly. Do not disassemble, crush, puncture, short external contacts,
dispose of in water or fire, or expose it to temperatures higher than 60
degrees C.

This computer contains an internal lithium battery-powered

The computer contains a nickel metal hydride battery pack.

Energy Star Compliance

As an Energy Star Partner, Compaq Computer Corporation has
determined that this product meets the Energy Star guidelines for
energy efficiency. The Energy Star Computers Program was created
by the EPA to promote energy efficiency and reduce air pollution
through more energy-efficient equipment in homes, offices, and
factories. Compaq products achieve this by reducing the power
consumption when not being used. Using the power-saving features
will reduce energy use and maximize battery life.

Agency vii

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Contents

Preface

Using This Guide

Chapter 1

Finding Information About Your Computer

Printed and Online References...................................................1-1

Ordering Backup Diskettes ........................................................1-2

Worldwide Telephone Numbers.................................................1-3

Chapter 2

Taking a Look at the Computer

Front and Side Components.......................................................2-2

Keyboard Components...............................................................2-3

Status Panel Indicators...............................................................2-4

Integrated Trackball...................................................................2-5

Rear Components.......................................................................2-6

Bottom Components ..................................................................2-7

........................................................................................ xv

Chapter 3

Using the Keyboard

Keyboard Components...............................................................3-2

Using the Hotkeys......................................................................3-3

Customizing the Popup Window.........................................3-5

Using the Special Function Keys ...............................................3-6

Using the Numeric Keypad........................................................3-7

Chapter 4

Managing Power

Power Button .............................................................................4-2

Standby (also called Suspend).............................................4-3

Hibernation..........................................................................4-4

When to Turn Off the Computer..........................................4-5

Contents ix

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Using AC Power ........................................................................4-6

To connect an AC Adapter ..................................................4-6

Using Battery Power..................................................................4-7

Reading the Battery Gauge..................................................4-7

Resolving a Low-Battery Condition....................................4-8

Extending Battery Pack Operating Time .............................4-9

Removing the Battery Pack...............................................4-10

Inserting the Battery Pack..................................................4-12

Charging the Battery Pack.................................................4-13

Power Properties......................................................................4-14

Turning Hibernation Off or On..........................................4-15

Battery Conservation Levels..............................................4-16

Chapter 5

Using Security

Setting Passwords Properties .....................................................5-2

Power-On Password...................................................................5-2

Establishing a Power-On Password ....................................5-2

Entering the Power-On Password........................................5-3

Deleting/Changing the Power-On Password........................5-3

If You Forget Your Power-On Password.............................5-3

Establishing a Setup Password...................................................5-4

Deleting/Changing a Setup Password..................................5-4

Identifying Quick Controls.........................................................5-5

Initiating Quick Controls.....................................................5-5

Using a Cable Lock....................................................................5-7

x Contents

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Chapter 6

Upgrading the Computer

Installing Software.....................................................................6-2

Adding Memory.........................................................................6-3

Chapter 7

Connecting External Equipment

Device Manager Utility..............................................................7-1

Add New Hardware Icon............................................................7-2

Connecting a Printer...................................................................7-2

Connecting an AC Adapter ........................................................7-3

Connecting an Auto Adapter......................................................7-4

Connecting an External Enhanced Keyboard.............................7-5

Connecting an External Monitor................................................7-6

Connecting a Mouse or External Trackball................................7-7

Chapter 8

Working with PCMCIA Devices

Types of PC Cards .....................................................................8-2

Inserting a PC Card....................................................................8-4

Removing a PC Card..................................................................8-6

Chapter 9

Caring for the Computer

Routine Care ..............................................................................9-2

Travel Guidelines.......................................................................9-3

Shipping Guidelines...................................................................9-4

Contents xi

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Chapter 10

Diagnostics

Accessing Diagnostics ..........................................10-1

Accessing Diagnostics from Windows..............................10-1

Running Computer Checkup (TEST).......................................10-2

Running the View System Information(Inspect Utility)...........10-4

Chapter 11

Troubleshooting

Checklist ..................................................................................11-1

Interpreting Messages on the Screen........................................11-2

Solving Minor Problems..........................................................11-2

Solving Battery Problems..................................................11-3

Solving Diskette/Diskette Drive Problems ........................11-6

Solving Hard Drive Problems............................................11-7

Solving Hardware Installation Problems ...........................11-8

Solving Keyboard and Embedded Numeric

Keypad Problems...............................................................11-9

Solving Memory Problems..............................................11-10

Running the Monitor Self-Test........................................11-10

Solving PC Card (PCMCIA Card) Problems...................11-11

Solving Power Problems .................................................11-13

Solving Printer Problems.................................................11-14

Solving Display Screen Problems....................................11-15

Solving Software Application Problems..........................11-17

Solving Sound Problems .................................................11-17

Solving Trackball/Mouse Problems.................................11-18

Cleaning the Trackball.....................................................11-20

Cleaning the Trackball Assembly....................................11-21

Servicing the Computer..........................................................11-23

Preparing for a Call to Customer Support..............................11-23

xii Contents

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Appendix A

Specifications .........................................................................................

Appendix B

POST Error Messages

..............................................................................B-1

Appendix C

Connector Pin Assignments

....................................................................C-1

Appendix D

Power Cord Set Requirements

General Requirements...............................................................D-1

Country-Specific Requirements ................................................D-2

Appendix E

Regulatory Agency Identification Numbers

...........................................E-1

A-1

.......................................................................................................... I-1

Index

Contents xiii

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Preface

Using This Guide

Purpose

This guide is a supplemental reference that takes you further than
Quick Setup with general information about the computer,
troubleshooting and diagnostics, and technical specifications.

Symbols and Conventions

The following format conventions distinguish elements of the text
throughout this guide:

Key names appear in a boldfaced type looking very much the

■

way they appear on the keyboard. For example,

Backspace, Tab.

When keys must be pressed at the same time, the action is

■

represented by the key names and the plus (+) symbol. For
example,

Ctrl+Alt+Delete

keys.

Home, End,

The names of files are presented in uppercase italic type

■

as shown here: FILENAME. The names of commands or
directories are presented in uppercase type as shown here:
COMMAND or DIRECTORY. Commands that are to be entered
at the system prompt are shown on a separate line.

When you need to type something without pressing the

■

key, you are directed to "type" the information.
When you need to type information and press the

■

are directed to "enter" the information.

Enter

Enter

key, you

xv

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The following words and symbols mark special messages
throughout this guide:

WARNING: Text set off in this manner indicates that failure to

!

follow directions could result in bodily harm or loss of life.

CAUTION: Text set off in this manner indicates that failure to
follow directions in the caution could result in damage to
equipment or loss of information.

IMPORTANT:

information or specific instructions.

NOTE:

or interesting points of information.

Text set off in this manner presents clarifying

Text set off in this manner presents commentary, sidelights,

xvi

Preface

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Chapter 1

Finding Information
About Your Computer

In this chapter you will learn about the references that come with
your computer and where to find them.

References are provided for you in two ways:

As printed materials

■

As online information accessible from the computer screen

■

: The printed and online references that come with the

NOTE

computer vary by model.

Printed and Online References

The following printed references come with your computer:

Quick Setup

■

Reference Guide

■

Introducing Microsoft Windows 95

■

Safety & Comfort Guide

■

Warranty and service information

■

Customer registration material

■

The following online references are preinstalled on your computer:

Compaq Reference Guide

■

Microsoft Windows 95

■

Safety & Comfort Guide

■

Compaq Dictionary

■

The online references installed on the computer include the user's
guides, application help, software utilities help, and customer
support information. Many are accessible from the Compaq
Information Center folder, an icon on the desktop screen, which is
also available from the Start menu. Others can be accessed from the
application or utility screens.

Finding Information About Your Computer

1-1

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

CAUTION: Most online references are available only through the

Windows interface. If you delete Windows, those references will
also be deleted. Therefore, Compaq recommends that you not
delete Windows software.

Ordering Backup Diskettes

Compaq recommends that you create a backup of the software
preinstalled on the computer. Or, for an additional cost, you can
order backup diskettes from Compaq for all software preinstalled on
this computer.

To order backup diskettes, refer to the "Worldwide Telephone
Numbers" listed in this chapter. If an order form is included with
your computer, complete the form and return it. Or call one of the
numbers listed on the order form.

IMPORTANT

serial number on the bottom of your computer. This number is
necessary for all backup diskette purchases.

: Before calling Compaq to place your order, find the

1-2

Finding Information About Your Computer

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Worldwide Telephone Numbers

Locate your geographical area from the following table and use one
of the telephone numbers for Compaq assistance.

General Information Numbers

—Product information, technical
assistance, and the location of your nearest Compaq authorized
dealer, reseller, or service provider.

Technical Support Numbers

—Hardware technical support in
analyzing system configuration and diagnostic problems or
troubleshooting.

Customer Support Numbers

—Information on service and support
programs including warranty, product catalogs, and white papers.

PaqFax Numbers

—Automatic facsimile response system for
technical and product specific information that is transmitted to any
fax machine. PaqFax is available 24 hours a day.

Telephone numbers are subject to change without notice.

NOTE:

Worldwide Telephone Numbers

Country

Location

Argentina

Code Telephone Number

General Information

Technical Support

Australia

General Information

Technical Support

PaqFax

Austria

General Information

Technical Support

Ordering Backup Software +31

+54

+54

-1-796-1616

-1-796-1717

61-2-9911-1999

61-2-9911-1955

61-2-9911-1982

0222/8 78-16 16

0222/8 78-16-16

-55-38-43-39

Continued

Finding Information About Your Computer

1-3

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Worldwide Telephone Numbers

Continued

Country

Location

Belgium

General Information

Compaq Care Center

Compaq Care Center Fax

General Fax

FaxPaq

QuickLine

Ordering Backup Software

Ordering Backup Software Fax

Brazil

General Information 55-11-246-7866

Canada

General Information

Code Telephone Number

+32

+32

+32

+32

+32

+32

+32

+32

-2-716-95-11

-2-716-96-96

-2-716-95-85

-2-725-22-13

-2-716-96-99

-2-716-95-92

-2-716-96-78

-2-716-96-79

1-905-707-1715

Technical Support

Customer Support

Ordering Backup Software

Battery Pack Recycling

Caribbean

General Information

Technical Support

Chile

General Information

Technical Support

China

General Information

Technical Support

Colombia

General Information

Technical Support

1-800-OKCOMPAQ
(1-800-652-6672)

1-800-263-5868

1-800-952-7689

1-800-263-5868

011-713-514-4220

011-713-518-2200

56-2-274-1911

56-2-274-3007

861-68313399

861-68346721

57-1-312-0201

57-1-345-0266

1-4

Finding Information About Your Computer

Continued

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Worldwide Telephone Numbers

Location

Czech Republic

General Information

Technical Support

Denmark

General Information

Technical Support

Finland

General Information

Technical Support

QuickLine (BBS)

France

General Information

Technical Support

Continued

Country
Code Telephone Number

+42

+42

+45

+45

+358

+358

+33

+33

-2-232-8772

-2-232-8772

-45-90-45-90

-45-90-45-45

-0-615-599

9800-206-720

-0-6155 9870

-1-41-33-41-33

-1-41-33-44-55

Germany

Menu Selection

Notebook Hotline

QuickLine

FaxPaq

Hong Kong

General Information

Technical Support

PaqFax

Hungary

General Information

Technical Support

(0,12 DM/2 sec. or 3,60 DM/min.)

0190/88 80 80

0190/88 80 82

(0,48 DM/min.)

0180/5 21 21 18

0180/5 21 21 19

852-28681382

852-90116633

852-28671648

+36

+36

-1-201-8776

-1-201-8776

Continued

Finding Information About Your Computer

1-5

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Worldwide Telephone Numbers

Location

India

General Information
PaqFax
BBS

Italy

General Information
Technical Support
Customer Support

Japan

General Information
Technical Support
Windows 95 Support
Ordering Backup Software
FaxStation

Continued

Country
Code Telephone Number

91-80-559-6023
91-80-559-8989
91-80-559-8900

+39
+39
+39

-2-57-59-03-61

-2-57-59-03-00

-1-67-82-50-12

0120-101-589
0120-101-589
0120-505-589
0120-250-589
81-3-5402-0991

Korea

General Information
Technical Support

Malaysia

General Information

Technical Support

Mexico

General Information

Technical Support

PaqFax

Netherlands

General Information

Customer Support

Fax

82-2-3470-07001
82-2-523-3575

82-082-902-77774

603-717-1188

603-718-1636

525-229-7900

525-229-7910

525-229-7920

0182-565805

06-91681616
(Dfl. 0.75/min)

06-8991116
(Dfl. 0.40/min)

QuickLine Bulletin Board

1-6

Finding Information About Your Computer

0182-572366

Continued

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Worldwide Telephone Numbers

Continued

Country

Location

New Zealand

General Information 64-9-307-3969

Norway

General Information

Technical Support

Poland

General Information

Technical Support

Portugal

General Information

Technical Support

Singapore

General Information

Code Telephone Number

+47

+47

+48

+48

+351

+351

-22-07-20-00

-22-07-20-20

-2-630-3535

-2-630-3535

-1-4120132

-1-4120132

65-753-6688

Customer Support Center

PaqFax

South Africa

General Information

Technical Support

Spain

General Information

Technical Support

Sweden

General Information

Technical Support

PaqFax (hämtfax)

QuickLine (BBS)

+34

+34

+46

+46

+46

+46

65-750-3030

65-750-4514

27-11-728-6999

27-11-728-6999

-1-640-1500

-1-640-1302

-8-703-5240

-8-703-5240

-8-703-5225

-8-703-5220

Continued

Finding Information About Your Computer

1-7

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Worldwide Telephone Numbers

Continued

Country

Location

Switzerland

Technical Support

QuickLine Bulletin Board

Ordering Backup Software

PaqFax

Taiwan

General Information

Technical Support

BBS

Thailand

General Information 62-2-679-6222

United Arab Emirates (Dubai)

General Information [phone]

Code Telephone Number

157/64-00

01/8 38-24 21

155/62-06

01/8 38-22 38

886-2-7351000

886-2-3761170

886-2-3761175

United Kingdom

General Information

FaxPaq

QuickLine Bulletin Board

United States

General Information

Technical Support

Customer Support

PaqFax

Download Facility
(modem access only)

Ordering Backup Software

Battery Pack Recycling

Venezuela

General Information 58-2-953-6944

0990-134456

0181-332-3550

0181-332-9499

1-713-514-6864

1-800-OKCOMPAQ
(1-800-652-6672)

1-800-345-1518

1-800-345-1518, Option 1

1-713-518-1418

1-800-952-7689

1-800-524-9859

1-8

Finding Information About Your Computer

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Chapter 2

Taking a Look
at the Computer

Your notebook computer is equipped with many components,
including levers, buttons, indicators, and connectors. This chapter
familiarizes you with the components on the computer and how to
use them.

External devices such as a printer, serial device, monitor, keyboard,
and mouse can be connected to your computer to enhance its
functionality. The icons located on the rear of the computer help
you identify these connectors. See Chapter 7, "Connecting External
Equipment," for more details.

Illustrations and tables on the following pages identify the
computer's primary components, including:

Front and side components

■

Keyboard components

■

Status panel indicators

■

Integrated trackball

■

Rear components

■

Bottom components

■

Taking a Look at the Computer

2-1

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Front and Side Components

1

5

7

2

Front and Side Components

3

4

6

Front and Side of the Computer

Ref. Component Function

n

o
p
q

r
s

Handle bracket (2) Allows the handle to be attached

NOTE: To attach the handle, move

the tilt feet aside and rotate the
concealed handle brackets toward the
rear of the computer

Keyboard tilt feet (2) Tilt the keyboard 4 degrees

Diskette drive Internal drive for 3.5-inch diskettes

PC Card slots Accept one Type III, or two Type II, or

two Type I PC Cards

Display latches (2) Open the computer

PC Card release levers Release PC Cards

t

2-2

Taking a Look at the Computer

Battery compartment button Opens battery compartment

NOTE: Before releasing a card, click the
PC Card indicator on the taskbar. Click
Stop for the card you want to remove.
When the system prompts you to remove
the card, swing the top or bottom release
lever to the left until the card ejects.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

4

77

1

2

3

5

6

Keyboard Components

Keyboard

Keyboard Components

Ref Component Function

Power button When pressed the first time, turns on the computer.

n

When pressed once after the computer is on, initiates
Standby (Suspend). When pressed the second time,
exits Standby. See Chapter 4, “Managing Power,” for
details.

NOTE: To turn off the computer, use Windows Shut

Down from the Start menu. In case of a severe
system lock-up, when the mouse doesn't work and

Ctrl+Alt+Del is not recognized by the unit, use
Ctrl+Alt + the power button to shut down the unit.

Status panel Displays computer status indicators.

o

Function keys

p

F1–F12
Embedded numeric

q

keypad
Cursor keys Allows cursor to move up, down, right, left.

r
s

Integrated trackball Moves the pointer around the screen; functions as a

Palm Rest (2) Designed to rest the part of your palms closest to the

t

Used for a specific functions in applications and
operating systems.

Allows two operating modes, numeric (if Fn+NumLk
key is on) and edit (if Fn+NumLk key is off).

mouse.

wrist when you pause at the keyboard. Do not use the
palm rest while you are typing.

Taking a Look at the Computer

2-3

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1

3

5

7

2

4

6

8

Status Panel Indicators

Status Panel Indicators

Status Panel Indicators

Ref. Indicator Function

n

Power/
standby

Turns on when power to the computer is turned on.
Blinks when computer is in Standby (Suspend). Turns off
when computer is in Hibernation or powered off.

2-4

o

p
q

r

s
t
u

Taking a Look at the Computer

Battery
charge

Hard drive Turns on when hard drive is being accessed.

Diskette
drive

Battery
gauge

Caps Lock Turns on when Caps Lock function is on.

Scroll Lock Turns on when the Scroll key is pressed.

Num Lock Turns on when the NumLk function is on.

Turns on when computer is turned on and when battery
is fast charging. Blinks for low-battery condition. Turns
off when battery pack is fully charged.

Turns on when diskette drive is being accessed.

Shows voltage remaining in battery pack when running
on battery power. Indicators do not represent equal
quantities of time. Only one indicator is on at a time.
Computer is in a low-battery condition when the
indicator next to the - (minus) icon comes on.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3

4

2

1

Integrated Trackball

Integrated Trackball

The integrated trackball eliminates the need to carry a mouse when
traveling.

The trackball n is designed to be used with either hand for cursor
movement and button selection. The top button o functions as a left
mouse button, and the bottom button p functions as a right mouse
button. The ball q controls the pointer when rolled with your thumb.

Button functions and other trackball features can be customized
using the mouse utility located on the Control Panel. To access the
mouse utility, click Start, click Settings, click Control Panel, then
double-click the Mouse/Trackball icon. Refer to the online Compaq

Reference Guide

NOTE:

For information about cleaning the trackball, refer to

for more information.

Chapter 11, "Troubleshooting."

Taking a Look at the Computer

2-5

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1

2

3

4

5

Rear Components

Rear Components

Components on the Rear of Computer

Ref. Component Function

n
o

p

q

Power connector Connects the AC Adapter cable.

Parallel connector Connects optional parallel devices,

such as a printer.

Serial connector Connects optional serial devices, such

as a mouse or CD-ROM drive.

Keyboard/mouse connector Connects an external keyboard, mouse,

or other pointing device.

r

2-6

Taking a Look at the Computer

External monitor
connector

Connects an external monitor.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1

2

Bottom Components

Bottom Components

Bottom Components

Ref Component Function

n
o

Battery compartment Contains the battery pack.

Memory compartment Contains the optional memory

expansion board.

Taking a Look at the Computer

2-7

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Chapter 2

Taking a Look at the Computer

2-8

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Chapter 3

Using the Keyboard

Keyboard features on the computer are designed to enhance its
functionality. This chapter familiarizes you with the parts of the
keyboard and how to use the following features:

Keyboard components

■

Hotkeys

■

Special function keys

■

Embedded numeric keypad

■

Using the Keyboard

3-1

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Keyboard Components

3

77

Keyboard

1

2

6

Keyboard Components

Ref Component Function

Power button When pressed the first time, turns on the computer.

n

When pressed once after the computer is on, initiates
Standby (Suspend). When pressed the second time,
exits Standby. See Chapter 4, “Managing Power,” for
details.

NOTE: To turn off the computer, use Windows Shut

Down from the Start menu. In case of a severe system
lock-up, when the mouse doesn't work and

Ctrl+Alt+Del is not recognized by the unit, use
Ctrl+Alt + the power button to shut down the unit.

Status panel Displays computer status indicators.

o

Function keys

p

F1–12

Embedded

q

numeric keypad
Cursor keys Allows cursor to move up, down, right, left.

r
s

Integrated
trackball

Palm Rest (2) Designed to rest the part of your palms closest to the

t

Used for a specific function in applications and
operating systems.

Allows two operating modes, numeric (if Fn+NumLk
key is on) and edit (if Fn+NumLk key is off).

Moves the pointer around the screen; functions as a
mouse.

wrist when you pause at the keyboard. Do not use the
palm rest while you are typing.

4

5

3-2

Using the Keyboard

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Using the Hotkeys

The hotkey combinations (

Fn+F4

through F9) simplify special
computer operations. These hotkeys
external keyboard.

Hotkeys

cannot

be accessed from an

Hotkey Assignments and Functions

Feature Hotkeys Function

Switching to the
External Monitor

System Beeps Fn+F5 Turns on or off the system beeps, such as

Fn+F4 Toggles three ways between computer

display, external monitor display, or both
displays simultaneously.

for Standby, low battery, and POST.

Continued

Using the Keyboard

3-3

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Hotkey Functions and Assignments

Feature Hotkeys Function

Quick Lock/
QuickBlank

Battery Conservation
Level

Contrast Control Fn+F8 Adjusts the display contrast. Press right

Brightness Control Fn+F9 Adjusts the brightness. Press right

Fn+F6 Initiates QuickLock, which disables the

Fn+F7 Displays the battery conservation

Continued

keyboard and mouse, and QuickBlank,
which clears the screen. Enter power-on
password to reactivate keyboard, mouse,
and screen.

setting in a pop-up window. Use the left
and right arrow keys to select a different
setting.

NOTE: See Chapter 4, "Managing
Power," for more information.

arrow key to increase contrast; press left
arrow key to decrease contrast.

NOTE: On models with color TFT
displays, contrast control is not
applicable.

arrow key to increase light intensity;
press left arrow key to decrease light
intensity.

Extended Text Fn+T Duplicates blank lines so text fills the

screen; the size of the displayed
characters doesn't change.

NOTE: Extended text is supported only
in text mode and only on the computer
display, not on an external monitor.

3-4

Using the Keyboard

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Customizing the Popup Window

Windows allows you to set the size and location of the popup window.
To access this feature, double-click the Hotkey Popup icon in the
Control Panel.

1. Click the option that sets the size/location of the popup window.

2. Make the desired changes.

3. Click OK to save your changes.

IMPORTANT

applications that support the video popup mode. If a popup does not
display correctly, exit the application and press the Hotkeys again to
invoke the popup window.

: This popup window can be accessed only from within the

Using the Keyboard

3-5

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Using the Special Function Keys

Some keys on the keyboard provide special functions, depending on
the application you are using. These keys are described in the
following table:

Special Function Keys

Key Function

Alt Application dependent, used in combination with another

key for a specific function. Check the application software
documentation you are using.

Backspace Moves the cursor left and deletes characters as it moves to the

left.

Caps Lock When the CapsLock indicator is on, capitalizes all letters typed.

Ctrl Application dependent; used in combination with other keys for

specific functions. Check the documentation for the application
software you are using.

Esc Often assigned a specific task by the application. Frequently used

as an exit key.

F1–F12 Used for a specific function in applications and operating systems.

Check the application software documentation you are using.

NumLk Activate this function by pressing Fn+End/NumLk. When the

NumLk indicator lights up, the embedded numeric keypad is

activated. NOTE: To change keyclick volume, activate the numeric
keypad. Then press Ctrl+Alt and the plus key (colon, semi-colon
key) repeatedly to increase keyclick volume. Press Ctrl+Alt and
the minus key (the letter "P") repeatedly to decrease keyclick
volume. (Keyclick volume can be heard only in MS-DOS sessions.)

Pause Temporarily suspends screen scrolling. Activate this function by

pressing Fn+Pause.

PrtSc Prints the information on the screen line-by-line to a local printer.

Using this key will print only the information on the screen.
Activate this function by pressing Fn+PrtSc.

Scroll When the Scroll Lock indicator is on, prevents the screen from

scrolling. Access this function by pressing Fn+Scroll.

Ctrl+Alt+Delete Restarts the system after the computer has been turned on.

Ctrl+Alt + power

button

Fn + power button Initiates Hibernation.

Turns off the computer if the system locks up.
NOTE: Shut Down on the Windows Start menu is the

recommended way to turn off the computer.

3-6

Using the Keyboard

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Using the Numeric Keypad

The embedded numeric keypad is a section of the keyboard that
converts to a numeric keypad when the
pressing
disable the embedded numeric keypad.

Fn+NumLk.

Use this toggle key function to enable and

NumLk

function is activated by

Embedded Numeric Keypad

Using the Keyboard

3-7

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Chapter 3

Using the Keyboard

3-8

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Chapter 4

Managing Power

Your computer is equipped with power features that allow you to
manage power usage, extend battery operating time, and conserve
battery power. Most power settings are controlled in Power
Properties, located in the Control Panel.

This chapter describes the following power management functions:

Power button

■

AC power

■

Low-battery condition

■

Battery power

■

Power properties

■

Managing Power

4-1

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Power Button

The power button performs the following functions:

Turns on the computer

■

—Press the power button once when the
computer is off, in Standby (also called Suspend), or in Hibernation.
When you turn on the computer, the power/standby indicator on the
status panel lights up.

Power Button and Power/Standby Indicator Light

Initiates Standby (Suspend)—Press the power button once when

■

the computer is on.

: Suspend can also be accessed from the Start menu.

NOTE

Initiates Hibernation—Press

■

Exits Standby or Hibernation—Press the power button after the

■

+ power button.

Fn

computer has entered Standby or Hibernation.

4-2

Managing Power

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Standby (also called Suspend)

When you finish working, or if you want to pause in the middle of
your applications, press the power button once to initiate Standby.
This feature puts the computer to sleep (for up to 168 hours with a
fully charged battery pack), uses very little power, and saves your
place in your applications.

During Standby, most of the major components (hard drive,
processor, and display) shut down after a period of inactivity. Press
the power button once and the computer returns your work to the
screen exactly where you left off.

How Standby is initiated

Automatically when a pre-defined timeout has been reached.

■

(You can set the Standby timeout period in Power Properties.)
Manually at any time by pressing the power button.

■

Manually at any time by clicking Suspend from the Start menu.

■

When Standby is initiated

The computer beeps (once if system initiated; twice if user

■

initiated).
The screen goes blank.

■

The power/standby indicator blinks.

■

When exiting Standby

Press the power button once.

■

The computer beeps once.

■

The power/standby indicator turns on.

■

The "instant-on" feature lets you pick up your work right where

■

you left off. No information is lost.

IMPORTANT

battery is low or dead. In this case, install a fully charged battery pack
or plug in an external power source. When a new power source is
connected to the computer, press the power button to exit Standby and
display your information on screen. (See "Resolving a Low-Battery
Condition" in this chapter.)

: The computer will not exit Standby (Suspend) if the

Managing Power

4-3

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Hibernation

Hibernation is a safeguard condition during which all the
information in system memory is saved to the hard drive and power
to the computer is turned off. When you resume work, your
information is returned to the screen exactly where you left off. No
information is lost.

Hibernation has the following benefits:

Since the computer is turned off and there is no drain on the

■

battery pack, your computer can remain in Hibernation for an
unlimited time.

You can manually save your place in any application or when

■

making a presentation
Information is automatically saved when the computer reaches a

■

low-battery condition (as long as Hibernation has not been
turned off).

How Hibernation is initiated

To save your place in your applications and turn power off
completely to your computer, press

the power button to initiate

Fn +

Hibernation.
System-initiated Hibernation occurs when the computer reaches a

critical low-battery condition. To protect against loss of
information, the computer automatically saves all information in
system memory to the hard drive and then turns off. Press the power
button once to resume work.

When exiting Hibernation

To resume work after Hibernation is initiated, do the following:

1. While the computer is still in Hibernation, install a fully charged
battery pack or connect to an external power source.

2. Turn on the computer by pressing the power button.
The computer exits Hibernation. The information that was saved

to the hard drive returns to the screen at the point where
Hibernation was initiated.

: To stop the restoration of information, press

NOTE
Fn+Ctrl+Break.

4-4

Managing Power

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

When to Turn Off the Computer

If you plan to store the computer for an extended period, turn off the
computer and remove the battery pack. This reduces the battery
pack's discharge rate and extends its life.

If you use the computer frequently, and you want "instant-on"
convenience, you do not have to turn off the computer. Simply
initiate Standby (Suspend) when you're not using it.

: The battery continues to drain while the computer is in

NOTE

Standby. If you want to charge a battery pack while you are not
using the computer, connect the computer to external power and
turn it off. The battery pack charges whether the computer is on
or off.

To turn off the computer when in Windows applications, click
Shut Down from the Start menu. When the power/standby indicator
light goes off, the computer has been successfully shut down.

: In case of a severe system lock-up, when the mouse doesn't

NOTE

work and
power button to shut down the unit. This method can also be used if
you are working in DOS mode (an option chosen from the Shut Down
menu). In this instance, Shut Down is not available because Windows
isn't running.

Ctrl+Alt+Del

is not recognized by the unit, use

Ctrl+Alt +

the

Managing Power

4-5

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1

2

3

Using AC Power

They way you connect the AC Adapter to the computer depends on
the type of adapter that came with your computer.

To connect the AC Adapter

Follow these steps to connect the AC Adapter:

1. Connect the power cord to the AC Adapter n.

2. Plug the AC Adapter cable o into the computer.

3. Plug the power cord p into an electrical outlet.

4. Turn on the computer.

Connecting an AC Adapter with Power Cord to the Computer

4-6

Managing Power

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Using Battery Power

Reading the Battery Gauge

The battery gauge, located on the status panel, has five indicator lights
that represent the amount of power remaining in the battery pack.

The indicators do not represent equal amounts of time. Instead, one
indicator at a time turns on to indicate how much battery power
remains. The computer is fully charged when the indicator next to
the plus (+) sign turns on. The computer is in a low-battery
condition when the indicator next to the minus (-) sign turns on.

Battery Gauge

Managing Power

4-7

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Resolving a Low-Battery Condition

When you operate the computer on battery power and the battery
charge runs low, the computer beeps and the battery charge
indicator on the status panel begins to blink. These signs indicate a
low-battery condition. When this occurs, you need to stop work
immediately and resolve the low-battery condition with external
power or a new battery pack.

Resolving a low-battery condition
with external power

If you are near a power source, connect the AC Adapter or Auto
Adapter to the computer.

Resolving a low-battery condition
with a charged battery pack

If a fully charged battery pack is available, do the following:

1. To avoid interrupting work, initiate Hibernation by pressing

the power button. Hibernation is complete when the battery

Fn +

charge indicator and power/standby lights turn off.

2. Remove the discharged battery pack.

3. Insert a fully charged battery pack.

4. Exit Hibernation by pressing the power button once.

Resolving a low-battery condition
when a battery pack is unavailable

If a fully charged battery pack is not available, do the following:

1. Save your information.

2. Exit your applications.

3. Turn off the computer by clicking Shut Down from the Start
menu until external power or a fully charged battery pack is
available.

4-8

Managing Power

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Extending Battery Pack Operating Time

Battery pack operating time can be extended by following these
guidelines:

Select the high level of power conservation. See "Selecting a

■

Battery Conservation Level" in this chapter.
Initiate Standby or Hibernation or turn off the computer when

■

not in use.
Reduce the brightness of the display.

■

Select a shorter screen save timeout.

■

Avoid unnecessary fast charge cycles, which reduce the life of

■

the battery.
Keep a battery pack in the computer when using it with external

■

power to supply it with a constant trickle (low-level) charge.
Disconnect any external equipment without its own power source

■

to avoid draining the battery pack.
Exit modem programs when not in use.

■

Remove the PC Card when not in use. These cards may drain the

■

battery more quickly than expected, even if the computer is in
standby. See Chapter 8, "Working with PCMCIA Devices," for
more information about PC Cards.

Store the battery pack in a cool, dry place when not in use. High

■

temperatures cause a battery pack to reduce its life and lose its
charge more quickly.

If you are storing the battery for less than one month, the

recommended storage temperature is -4°F to 122°F (-20°C to
50°C); for no more than 3 months, the recommended temperature
is -4°F to 104°F (-20°C to 40°C); for an unlimited time,
the recommended temperature range is -4°F to 86°F
(-20°C to 30°C).

Use the AC Adapter whenever possible.

■

Managing Power

4-9

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2

1

Removing the Battery Pack

Before removing the battery pack, complete the following steps:

1. To prevent loss of data, save your work and exit all applications.

2. If the computer is on, initiate Hibernation by pressing

Fn +

the
power button or turn it off by pressing Shut Down on the
Windows Start menu.

CAUTION:

computer can lead to loss of data.

Failure to save your work and turn off power to the

3. Lift up the front of the computer n. (The battery compartment is
on the bottom of the computer.) Slide the battery release button
to the right o to open the battery compartment.

Opening the Battery Compartment

4-10

Managing Power

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2

1

4. The battery compartment pops down n. Remove the battery

pack o.

Removing the Battery Pack

: Battery packs should be recycled or disposed of according to

NOTE

local regulations.

Managing Power

4-11

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3

1

2

4

Inserting the Battery Pack

To insert the battery pack, complete the following steps:

1. If the computer is on, turn it off by pressing Shut Down on the

Windows Start menu, or initiate Hibernation by pressing
power button.

2. Lift up the front of the computer n. (The battery compartment is

on the bottom of the computer.) Slide the battery release button
to the right o to open the battery compartment.

3. Insert the battery pack, flat side up, into the battery compartment

with the metal battery contacts facing the back of the battery
compartment p.

4. Close the battery compartment q. Ensure that the compartment

is fully closed and latched.

Fn +

the

Installing the Battery Pack

5. Press the power button to turn the computer back on.

IMPORTANT:

Use only the Compaq Extended Life NiMH (Nickel
Metal Hydride) Battery Pack, which comes standard in the
computer, or use the Duracell DR-31 NiMH Battery Pack with the
computer.

4-12

Managing Power

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Charging the Battery Pack

Follow these steps to fully charge the battery pack:

1. Connect the AC Adapter to the computer and plug it into an

electrical outlet.

2. Turn on the computer if you want to use it while the battery pack

is charging.

When the battery charge indicator turns off, the battery pack is no
longer being fast-charged. It takes about 1.5 hours to fast-charge the
battery pack if the computer is turned off and longer if the computer
is turned on.

NOTE:

local regulations.

Battery packs should be recycled or disposed of according to

Managing Power

4-13

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Power Properties

Power Properties is a series of features that allows you to monitor
how AC and battery power are used in your computer. It controls
most of the computer components, including hard drive, processor,
and display.

To conserve the battery, the computer can be preset to shut down
power to a component after a specified period of inactivity (called a
timeout). In addition to other features, Power Properties allows you
to preset timeouts.

To get to Power Properties:

1. Click Start.

2. Click Settings.

3. Click Control Panel.

4. Double-click the Power icon.
Power Properties contains several tabs that allow you to view or set

the following:

If you want to: Click this tab:

Set battery conservation levels and
enable/disable warning beeps.

Select power settings for PC Card slots PC Card Power

Select Hibernation Settings Hibernation

Enable and disable the AC Energy Saver
and customize Energy Save monitor
values

NOTE:

To get to Standby (also called Suspend), click Suspend on

Conservation Settings

AC Energy

the Windows Start menu.

4-14

Managing Power

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Turning Hibernation Off or On

Hibernation is automatically turned on when you first set up your
computer. If you want to turn off Hibernation, click the Hibernation
tab in Power Properties. You can also turn it back on through the
Hibernation tab. When you restart the computer, the system
automatically allocates or updates your computer's disk space to
adjust to the amount of current memory.

CAUTION:

computer reaches a low-battery condition, unsaved information is lost.

Turning off Hibernation is not recommended. If the

Setting a timeout

Timeouts are specified periods of system or component inactivity.
Timeouts work with battery conservation to conserve power. When
a timeout period has expired, battery conservation shuts down the
system or components to save power.

For example, the hard disk idle default timeout is two minutes.
Therefore, if an application does not access information on the
hard disk for two minutes, the hard disk shuts down until it is
accessed again.

Timeouts are set through the Conservation Settings or Hibernation
tabs in Power Properties. Use timeouts in the following ways:

1. Use a preset timeout provided with the medium (default) or high

level of battery conservation.

2. Set your own timeouts through the custom level of battery

conservation so that the computer works more efficiently with
your applications.

Managing Power

4-15

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1

3

2

4

Battery Conservation Levels

Selecting a Battery Conservation Level

To extend the life of your battery, customize your own level of battery
conservation or click one of three preset conservation levels. Medium is
the default setting.

n High Conservation—Saves the most battery power. This level

supplies the most battery life from a single charge.

o Medium Conservation—Provides a balance between system

performance and battery life. This is the default setting.

p None (Drain)—Turns off battery conservation and drains the

battery pack. Hibernation will initiate and turn off the computer
while the computer is in this mode. Before setting the None
(Drain) level, disable Hibernation by clicking the Hibernation tab
in Power Properties.

q Custom—Saves battery power according to your specifications.

This setting remains in effect until you change it.

: High, Medium, or Custom conservation settings remain in effect

NOTE

until you change them. If the None (Drain) level is selected, it remains in
effect until the computer is turned off or restarted. When the computer is
turned on or restarted, the setting reverts to the default, Medium
conservation.

4-16

Managing Power

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Selecting a Battery Conservation Level
with Hotkeys

You can also change the default levels of battery conservation by
pressing

Fn+F7

level. Use the left or right arrow keys to select a different level.

Using the AC Energy Saver

The AC Energy Saver feature allows the hard disk idle and screen
save timeouts to initiate after a period of computer inactivity while
the computer is connected to AC power. Enabling this feature saves
money on your electric bill.

You can turn the Energy Saver feature on or off through the AC
Energy Saver tab in Power Properties. The Energy Saver feature is
supported in MS-DOS, Windows 3.1, and Windows 95 operating
systems.

to display a popup window indicating the current

The Energy Saver feature is network compatible when using
network PC Cards, when the PC Card power setting is set to the
"on" position.

The Energy Saver feature, when used in conjunction with an
external Energy Star compliant monitor, will support the power­down features of the monitor. Enabling the Energy Save Monitor
feature allows the external monitor to go into low-power mode
when the screen save timeout occurs.

To take advantage of this energy savings, the external monitor
feature has been preset to power down after 10 minutes. This setting
can be modified or disabled by accessing the Energy Saver menu.

CAUTION:

compliant monitors may cause video distortion when the Screen Save
timeout occurs.

Using the Energy Save Monitor feature with non-Energy Star

Managing Power

4-17

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Chapter 5

Using Security

The security features installed on your computer allow you to
customize the security measures you prefer. The computer provides
security features to set passwords, QuickLock the pointing device
and keyboard, and QuickBlank the screen.

This chapter describes how to set and modify the following security
features:

■ Passwords properties

■ Power-on password

■ Setup password

■ Quick controls

■ Cable lock

Using Security

5-1

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Setting Passwords Properties

The Passwords icon allows you to select various software security
to protect your computer against unauthorized use. To ensure
privacy and security, you can set or change passwords, disable the
keyboard and pointing device, or blank the screen while you are
away from your computer.

To get to the Passwords icon:

1. Click Start.

2. Click Settings.

3. Click Control Panel.

4. Double-click Passwords icon.
Passwords Properties lets you set the following:

If you want to: Click this tab:

Set or delete the power-on
password, QuickLock, and
QuickBlank

Computer Security

Power-On Password

Power-on password is a security feature that prevents use of the
computer when it is turned on until a secret word or code is entered.
This prevents unauthorized access to your information.

Once you establish a power-on password, you must enter it each
time you turn on the computer.

IMPORTANT:

on password. Therefore, Compaq recommends that you record your
password and put it in a safe place.

You cannot use the computer if you forget your power-

5-2

Using Security

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Establishing a Power-On Password

To establish your power-on password, follow these steps:

1. Click the Computer Security tab in Passwords Properties.

2. Click the Set button.

3. Enter your new password twice, then click OK.

You may enter up to seven alphanumeric characters for the
password. The next time you restart the computer, you will be
prompted to enter your power-on password.

IMPORTANT:

display as you type it. The password is not case sensitive.
However, you must use the same keys each time you enter the
password. For example, the numbers at the top of the keyboard
are not recognized as being the same as the numbers in the
embedded numeric keypad.

Type carefully, because the password does not

Entering the Power-On Password

To enter a power-on password, follow these steps:

1. Turn on the computer.

2. When the power-on password prompt is displayed, type your

power-on password carefully. (The prompt symbol is a key.) If
you enter your password incorrectly, an incorrect password
prompt (a key with an "X" over it) is displayed.

3. Try again to enter the password. After three unsuccessful

attempts, you must turn the computer off and back on again
before you can continue.

Deleting/Changing the Power-On Password

Once your power-on password has been established, you can delete
or change it using your computer keyboard. Typically, the slash
mark (/) is the key character used, but the syntax for
deleting/changing the power-on password varies according to the
keyboard purchased with your computer. Each computer keyboard
is designed to meet specific country requirements. As a result, you
may have to substitute another key character. Refer to the online
Compaq

Reference Guide

for more information.

Using Security

5-3

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

If You Forget Your Power-On Password

If you forget your power-on password, the computer must be
disassembled and the memory cleared. Contact your Compaq
authorized dealer, reseller, or service provider for assistance.

Establishing a Setup Password

A setup password allows you to protect your system configuration.
Once this password is established, you cannot change the
configuration until you enter the password. The setup password
should be used by network administrators or anyone who needs to
protect the system configuration from unauthorized use.

The setup password can only be set, changed, or deleted from the

Setup utility. To establish the setup password for the first time

F10

follow these steps:

1. Restart the computer by clicking Shut Down from the Windows

Start menu.

2. When the Configuration and Diagnostics menu appears, click the

Compaq Security option.

3. Click the Advanced option, then click the Password Protect

Computer setup option.

4. In the window that appears, type the password in the New

Password field. Type it again in the Retype Password field and
exit the utility by clicking OK.

IMPORTANT:

display as you type.

CAUTION: If you forget your setup password, you will need to clear the
password from memory before you can reconfigure the system. Call
your Compaq authorized dealer, reseller, or service provider for
assistance if needed.

Type carefully, because the password does not

5-4

Using Security

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Deleting/Changing a Setup Password

To delete/change a Setup Password, follow these steps:

1. Restart the computer by clicking Shut Down from the Windows

Start menu.

2. When the cursor (a small white box) moves to the upper-right

corner of the screen, press
displayed.

The password prompt is

F10.

IMPORTANT

you type do not appear on the screen.

To delete your password

appropriate syntax for your computer keyboard. For example, if you have
a Belgian keyboard, type the following to delete the password:

current password=

To change your password

enter the new password twice, typing the appropriate syntax for
your computer keyboard between the passwords. For example, if
you have a Belgian keyboard, you will type the following:
current password=new password=new password. The new password
takes effect the next time you turn on the computer.

NOTE:

keyboard purchased with your computer. Refer to the online

Compaq Reference Guide

The syntax for changing the password varies according to the

: Type carefully, for security reasons, the characters

—enter your current password, followed by the

—enter your current password, then

to find the syntax for your computer.

Identifying Quick Controls

QuickLock

■

computer is running. It leaves your data on the screen, but
prevents it from being accessed by the keyboard until a power-on
password is entered.

—Locks the keyboard and pointing device while the

QuickBlank

■

screen when the keyboard and pointing device are disabled.

QuickLock on Standby

■

machine enters Standby (Suspend).

—Used in conjunction with QuickLock, clears the

—Locks the keyboard when the

Using Security

5-5

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Initiating Quick Controls

Quick Controls establish security measures when your computer is
turned on but not in use. After setting the power-on password in
Passwords Properties, Quick Controls can be initiated in two ways:

1. With

2. With the key combination

NOTE:

enter your power-on password.

Fn+F6

keyboard.

computer and external keyboards.

To exit QuickLock/QuickBlank once it has been activated,

hotkeys, which work only on the computer

Ctrl+Alt+L,

which works on both the

5-6

Using Security

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Using a Cable Lock

In order to secure your computer and prevent it from being stolen or
accidentally disconnected, you may want to use a cable lock. A
cable lock can be purchased from Kensington Microware Limited
and major dealers worldwide. Ask for the Kensington MicroSaver
Security System Model 64068.

Using a Cable Lock

To attach the cable lock:

1. Loop the cable around a fixed object to which you want to secure

the computer.

2. Insert the lock end of the cable through the loop end of the cable.

3. Insert the key into the lock and turn it.

4. Remove the key.

Using Security

5-7

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Chapter 6

Upgrading the Computer

Upgrade components can increase the functionality and
performance of your computer. Compaq upgrades are easy to
install.

Contact your Compaq authorized reseller to determine which
upgrades are available for your model computer. For detailed
installation procedures, refer to the installation documentation
included with the optional equipment or contact your Compaq
authorized reseller.

Installing software

■

Adding memory

■

Upgrading the Computer

6-1

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Installing Software

An application software program performs a specific task, such as
database management, word processing, financial management, or
graphic illustration.

Application software is different than system software or operating
systems, which maintain and organize the system. Each application
program usually includes its own installation program and
documented installation procedures.

Before installation, read the documentation that came with the
application to ensure that your computer meets the disk space,
memory, operating system, and monitor requirements of the
application.

6-2

Upgrading the Computer

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Adding Memory

The computer comes standard with 8 or 16 megabytes of random
access memory (RAM). Memory can be expanded with 8-, 16-, or
32-Megabyte Memory Expansion Boards.

CAUTION: Electrostatic discharge can damage electronic components.
Before touching a memory expansion board, ensure that you are
discharged of static electricity by touching a grounded metal object.

To install memory, follow these steps:

1. Turn the computer off by clicking Shut Down from the Windows

Start menu. Remove all external devices, including the battery
pack and the AC Adapter.

2. Close the computer and turn it over, bottom side up.

3. Slide open the memory compartment cover.

4. Lift and remove the cover from the computer base.

Upgrading Memory

Upgrading the Computer

6-3

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2

1

5. Slide the memory boards into the memory slot n. The connector

will snap into place when the board is correctly seated o.

Sliding Memory Boards Into Place

6. Replace the memory compartment cover.

Replacing the Memory Compartment Cover

6-4

Upgrading the Computer

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

7. Replace the battery pack.

8. Connect the computer to electrical power and turn it on. The

computer automatically recognizes the new memory and
reconfigures the system.

CAUTION: The connectors on the memory expansion board are all
similar in appearance but do not have the same number of connector
pins. Be sure you match each connector to its corresponding system
board connector. Incorrect insertion could result in damage to the
memory expansion board or the system board.

Upgrading the Computer

6-5

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Chapter 7

Connecting External
Equipment

This chapter familiarizes you with the procedures and utilities
needed to connect external equipment to your computer, including:

Device Manager utility

■

Add New Hardware icon

■

Printer

■

AC Adapter

■

Automobile Adapter

■

External keyboard

■

External monitor

■

Mouse or external trackball

■

Device Manager Utility

Device Manager is the primary tool for viewing and manipulating
your system configuration. It allows you to view your external
equipment and internal devices, including keyboard, modem, disk
drives, and monitor. To get to the Device Manager, click the
Control Panel on the Start menu and double-click the System icon.

The Device Manager allows you to view and change your system
configuration in the following ways:

If you want to: Click this tab:

Look at system resources or
print out a system summary.

Change drivers; install drivers; learn
the status and compatibility of
installed devices

View Devices by Type

View Devices by Connection

Connecting External Equipment

7-1

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Add New Hardware Icon

Add New Hardware helps you install a new piece of hardware
quickly. Also, it will automatically detect installed hardware. To get
to Add New Hardware, go to the Control Panel, double-click the
Add New Hardware icon, and follow the instructions on the screen.

Connecting a Printer

To connect a printer to your computer, follow these steps:

1. Shut down the computer and printer by pressing Shut Down on

the Windows Start menu.

2. Plug the printer end of the printer signal cable into the printer.

Connecting a Printer to the Computer

3. Plug the printer power cord into a properly grounded electrical

outlet.

4. Turn on the printer.

5. Turn on the computer

: Before using the printer for the first time, consult the

NOTE

printer documentation and printer device driver configuration
information and instructions.

7-2

Connecting External Equipment

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Connecting the AC Adapter

To connect the AC Adapter cable to the computer:

1. Connect the AC Adapter cable to the AC power connector on the

computer.

2. Plug the AC Adapter power cord into an electrical outlet that is

easily accessible and located near the computer.

3. Turn on the computer.

Connecting an AC Adapter to the Computer

: For more information on connecting the AC Adapter, see

NOTE

Chapter 4, "Managing Power."

Connecting External Equipment

7-3

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3

2

1

Connecting the Automobile Adapter

To connect the Automobile Adapter to the computer:

1. Turn on the vehicle’s engine

2. Plug one end of the power cord into the automobile adapter ❶

and the other end into the AC Adapter ❷.

3. Connect the AC Adapter cable ❸ to the power connector on the

computer.

4. Insert the Automobile Adapter cable into the cigarette lighter

socket.

Connecting an Automobile Adapter to the Computer

7-4

Connecting External Equipment

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Connecting an External Enhanced Keyboard

To connect an external enhanced keyboard, complete the following steps:

1. With the computer turned on, initiate Standby (Suspend) by
pressing the power button on the computer.

2. Connect the keyboard cable to the keyboard connector on the
computer.

3. Exit Standby by pressing the power button. The external
keyboard will be enabled and the computer keyboard will be
disabled.

Connecting an External Keyboard to the Computer

Connecting External Equipment

7-5

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Connecting an External Monitor

An external VGA monitor can be connected to the computer.
To connect an external monitor to the computer, follow these steps:

1. With the computer turned on, initiate Standby (Suspend) by
pressing the power button on the computer.

2. Turn off the monitor.

3. Plug the monitor signal cable into the VGA connector.

4. Plug the monitor power cord into a properly grounded electrical
outlet.

5. Turn on the monitor, then exit Standby by pressing the power
button.

NOTE:

resolution with 256 colors when the required Microsoft Windows
device drivers are installed. The 132-bit column mode is
supported only on external monitors that are capable of
displaying advanced resolution. The driver and the utility that
installs the driver are preinstalled on this computer. To adjust
screen resolution, double-click the Display icon on the Control
Panel on the Start menu, and click the Settings tab.

The computer supports advanced VGA (1024 × 768)

Connecting an External VGA Monitor to the Computer

7-6

Connecting External Equipment

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Connecting a Mouse or External Trackball

CAUTION: To prevent damage to the computer, place the computer in

Standby (Suspend) before connecting or disconnecting the mouse.

To connect a mouse or trackball to the computer, follow these steps:

1. For a PS/2 mouse or trackball, with the computer turned on,
initiate Standby (Suspend) by pressing the power button on the
computer. To connect a serial mouse, turn off power to the
computer.

2. Connect a serial mouse to the serial connector. Connect a PS/2
mouse or external trackball to the keyboard/mouse connector.

3. Exit Standby by pressing the power button.

: The integrated trackball is automatically disabled when a

NOTE

mouse or external trackball is connected to the computer and
becomes active. Both the mouse and trackball need software device
drivers to operate. The necessary drivers should be preinstalled with
Microsoft Windows.

Connecting a PS/2 Mouse or Trackball to the Computer

Connecting External Equipment

7-7

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Chapter 7

Connecting External Equipment

7-8

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Chapter 8

Working with PCMCIA Devices

PC Card devices (also called PCMCIA Cards) are credit card-sized
option cards that enhance the functionality of your computer.
Examples of PC Cards include modems, network interface cards,
memory storage cards, and hard drive storage cards.

This chapter provides an overview of PC Cards, including:

Types of PC Cards

■

Inserting a PC Card

■

Removing a PC Card

■

PC Card Software

■

Working with PCMCIA Devices

8-1

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Types of PC Cards

Your computer is equipped with a versatile feature that allows you
to connect portable external devices, such as modem, memory, or
network PC Cards. PC Cards are available in various types,
according to the thickness of the card:

Type I 3.3 mm

■

Type II 5.0 mm

■

Type III 10.5 mm

■

1

2

3

Three Most Common Types of PC Cards

This computer has two PC Card slots that can accommodate one
Type III, or two Type II , or two Type I PC Cards. A Type III PC
Card fits only in the bottom slot, slot 1.

8-2

Working with PCMCIA Devices

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

IMPORTANT

: Before buying a non-Compaq PC Card, be sure it

conforms to standards set by the Personal Computer Memory Card
International Association (PCMCIA). For a list of PC Cards
supported on this computer, contact your Compaq authorized
reseller or service provider.

Also, look for this Compaq PC Card Solution seal. Cards with this
logo on their packaging and advertising are supported on most
Compaq computers.

Compaq PC Card Solution Logo

Working with PCMCIA Devices

8-3

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Inserting a PC Card

The computer does not need to be turned off or placed in Standby
(Suspend) when inserting a PC Card.

To insert a PC Card, follow these steps:

1. Insert the PC Card, label side up, and gently push the card into one
of the available slots. Forcing a card into the slot can damage the
connector pins.

:

IMPORTANT

2. In most cases, the computer automatically configures the card. For
example, a modem PC Card is configured to a COM port, or a hard
disk PC Card is assigned a drive letter. If the computer is turned off
or in Standby (Suspend), the card will not be configured until the
computer is turned back on.

3. When the card is inserted, a popup displays configuration

information and options. The computer then beeps (low-high
tone) to indicate that the card is configured and ready for use.
Each subsequent time that card is inserted, you will hear beeps
and see a popup, indicating that the card has configured.

A Type III card fits only in the bottom slot, slot 1.

8-4

Working with PCMCIA Devices

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

If the card does not go in easily, make sure you are inserting it label
side up. The following illustration shows the correct way to insert
the card.

Inserting a PC Card

Working with PCMCIA Devices

8-5

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Removing a PC Card

The computer does not need to be turned off or placed in Standby
(Suspend) to remove a PC Card. To remove a card:

1. Click the PC Card indicator on the taskbar and click "Stop" for
the card you want to remove.

2. When the system prompts you to remove the card, swing the top
or bottom release lever to the left until the card ejects. (The PC
Card release levers are located on the front of the computer on
the left side.)

3. Gently grasp the card and pull it out. The computer beeps
(high-low tone) to indicate card removal.

: If the speakers are turned off, system beeps are not

NOTE

audible.

Removing a PC Card with Attached Cable

PC Card Software

To manage and configure PC Cards effectively, your computer
provides PC Card software. This software includes drivers for the
most popular PC Cards and other features designed to make PC
Cards simple to use. For information about this software, refer to
the online Compaq Reference Guide.

8-6

Working with PCMCIA Devices

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Chapter 9

Caring for
the Computer

This chapter provides Compaq recommended guidelines for taking
care of your computer. These guidelines, aimed at improving your
computer's longevity and reducing the risk of damage, include:

Routine care

■

Travel guidelines

■

Shipping guidelines

■

Caring for the Computer

9-1

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Routine Care

You can keep the computer in good condition and working properly
by following these guidelines:

Operate the computer with a battery pack installed, even when

■

you're using external power. This supplies the battery with a
constant trickle charge and ensures a fully charged battery pack
the next time you turn on the computer.

Keep the computer away from excessive moisture and

■

temperature extremes. Do not expose the computer to liquids or
precipitation.

Remove the battery pack from the computer if the computer will

■

not be used for an extended period (more than two weeks). Store
the battery pack in a cool, dry place when it is not in use.

To prevent possible damage to the display, do not place anything

■

on top of the computer when it is closed. Store the computer in
the slipcase.

Occasionally wipe the exterior of the computer and the screen

■

with a soft, damp cloth moistened only with water.
Avoid exposing the computer to direct sunlight or strong

■

ultraviolet light for extended periods of time. Also avoid
scratching the surface of the screen and banging it against hard
objects.

CAUTION: Using soap or other cleaning products on the screen

may discolor the finish and damage the screen. Do not spray
liquid directly on the computer screen. Excess liquid may drip
down inside the computer and cause damage to the components
or result in electrical shock.

9-2

Caring for the Computer

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Travel Guidelines

For safety and convenience when traveling, follow these guidelines:

Safeguard your data before you leave on a trip by backing it up

■

onto diskettes or tape media.
Take an extra backup copy of the data with you.

■

Remove the diskette from the diskette drive.

■

Disconnect the AC Adapter from the computer. Take the AC

■

Adapter or an extra fully charged battery pack with you.
Disconnect external equipment, including cables, from the computer.

■

Hand-carry the computer in the slipcase. Do not check it with

■

your luggage.

IMPORTANT:

There are three types of airport security devices: X-ray
machines (the device you set your bags on), magnetic detectors (the
device you walk through), and security magnetic wands (the hand­held device used by security personnel). You can send your
computer and diskettes through airport X-ray machines. However,
Compaq recommends that you do not send your computer and
diskettes through airport magnetic detectors or expose them to
security magnetic wands.

Check with the airline if you plan to use the computer on the

■

plane. In-flight computer use is at the discretion of the airline.

Before traveling internationally with the computer:

Check local customs regulations.

■

In accordance with the guidelines outlined in Appendix D of this

■

guide, purchase a power cord from a Compaq authorized dealer,
reseller, or service provider in the country where you will be
using the computer. These power cords are designed to meet the
voltage and frequency requirements of each country.

Make sure you have the correct modem for the country you'll be

■

visiting. Telephone line standards and modem protocols differ
from country to country.

Warning: To reduce the risk of electrical shock, fire or damage to
the equipment, do not use the converter kits sold for appliances to
power the computer.

Caring for the Computer

9-3

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Shipping Guidelines

Should you need to ship the computer, follow these guidelines:

Safeguard your data before shipping by backing it up onto

■

diskettes or tape media. Be sure that diskettes or tapes are
not exposed to electrical or magnetic impulses while stored
or in transit.

Remove the diskette from the diskette drive.

■

Remove all PC Cards from the PC Card slots.

■

Turn off the computer and external devices.

■

Close the computer.

■

Disconnect external equipment from the computer.

■

Pack the computer and external devices in their original packing

■

boxes or similar packaging with sufficient packing material to
protect them.

9-4

Caring for the Computer

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Chapter 10

Diagnostics

The configuration and diagnostic utilities described in this chapter
should be used in the following instances:

To change factory default settings and to set or change the

■

system configuration, which is sometimes necessary when you
add or remove optional equipment.

When a system configuration error is detected during the Power-

■

On Self-Test (POST).
To determine information about the operating environment of the

■

system.

Accessing Diagnostics

By pressing
accessed immediately after the computer has been turned on and the
Power-On Self-Test (POST) has been completed. Because this
menu is accessed before the operating system takes effect, it is
available to all computer users, no matter which operating system
they typically use (for example, MS-DOS, Windows, or OS/2).

, the Configuration and Diagnostics menu can be

F10

Accessing Diagnostics from Windows

You can also access configuration and diagnostics information from
the desktop by following these steps:

1. Click Start.

2. Click Settings.

3. Click Control Panel.

4. Double-click the Compaq Diagnostics for Windows icon.

Diagnostics

10-1

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Running Computer Checkup (TEST)

Computer Checkup (TEST)
is a utility that determines if the various computer devices are

recognized by the system and functioning properly. Running
Computer Checkup is optional but advisable after installing or
connecting a new device

You can display, print, or save the information generated by
Computer Checkup. Your Compaq authorized reseller or service
provider may ask you to run this utility to assist in analyzing the
system. This information allows the service provider to reproduce
the same environment on another computer for testing.

It is also recommended that you run Computer Checkup and have
the printed report available before placing a call to Compaq
Customer Support.

To run Computer Checkup, follow these steps:

1. Connect the AC Adapter and use it with the computer during

these procedures. A low-battery condition could initiate Standby
(Suspend) and interrupt the program.

2. Turn on only the external devices that you want to test. Connect

the printer if you want to use it to log error messages.

3. Turn on or restart the computer by pressing

4. As soon as the cursor is displayed in the upper-right corner of

the screen, press

IMPORTANT

seconds. If you do not press
restart the computer and try again.

5. If prompted, select a language.

The Configuration and Diagnostics menu is displayed.

6. Select Computer Checkup (TEST). A test option menu is

displayed.

7. Select the View Device List option. A list of the installed

Compaq devices is displayed.

F10.

The cursor is displayed on the screen for about two

:

during this time, you must

F10

Ctrl+Alt+Delete.

10-2

Diagnostics

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

8. Verify that Computer Checkup correctly detected the devices

installed.

Devices from other manufacturers may not be detected or

:

NOTE

may be reported inaccurately.

If the list is correct, select OK. The test option menu is

■

displayed again. Go to step 9.
If the list is incorrect, ensure that any new devices are

■

installed properly. If you do not find an installation problem,
call your Compaq authorized service provider.

9. Select one of the following from the test option menu:

■

Quick Check Diagnostics

—Runs a quick, general test on each
device with a minimal number of prompts. If errors occur,
they are displayed when the testing is complete.

■

Automatic Diagnostics

—Runs unattended, maximum testing
of each device with minimal prompts. You can choose how
many times to run the tests, to stop on errors, or to print or
file a log of errors.

■

Prompted Diagnostics

—Allows maximum control over the
device testing process. You can choose attended or
unattended testing, decide to stop on errors, or choose to print
or file a log of errors.

10. Follow the instructions on the screen as the devices are tested.
When the testing is complete, the test option menu is displayed
again.

: When you run Computer Checkup, record any error

NOTE

message numbers and have them available when you contact
your Compaq authorized reseller or service provider for
assistance.

11. Exit to the Configuration and Diagnostics menu.

Diagnostics

10-3

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Running the View System Information
(Inspect Utility)

The View System Information (INSPECT) utility provides
information about the system once it has been configured. This
utility provides the following information about the system
operating environment:

Contents of the operating system startup files

■

Current memory configuration

■

ROM versions

■

Type of processor

■

Diskette and hard drives

■

Active printer and communications interfaces

■

Modem

■

Video

■

Windows

■

Windows

■

WIN.INI
SYSTEM.INI

file

file

You can display, print, or save the information. Your Compaq
authorized reseller or service provider may ask you to run this
utility to assist in analyzing the system. This information allows the
service provider to reproduce the same environment on another
computer for testing. It is recommended that you run View System
Information and have the printed results available before placing a
call to Compaq Customer Support.

This utility is not available from Windows. It must be

:

NOTE

accessed from the Configuration and Diagnostics menu. However,
in Windows, the Compaq Diagnostics for Windows utility provides
similar information about the computer. To run Compaq
Diagnostics for Windows, click the Windows Start menu, then click
Settings, then click Control Panel, then double-click the Compaq
Diagnostics for Windows icon.

10-4

Diagnostics

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

To run View System Information (INSPECT), follow these steps:

1. Turn on or restart the computer by pressing the power button.

2. As soon as the cursor is displayed in the upper-right corner of the
screen, press

IMPORTANT

seconds. If you do not press
restart the computer and try again.

3. If prompted, select the desired language.
The Configuration and Diagnostics menu is displayed.

4. Select View System Information (INSPECT).

.

F10

The cursor is displayed on the screen for about two

:

during this time, you must

F10

Diagnostics

10-5

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Chapter 11

Troubleshooting

This chapter provides information on how to identify and correct
some common hardware, memory, and software problems. It also
explains several types of common messages that can be
displayed on the screen. Troubleshooting information is provided
on the following pages for:

Battery

■

Diskette/Diskette drive

■

Hard drive

■

Hardware installation

■

Keyboard/Numeric keypad

■

Memory

■

Monitor

■

PCMCIA (PC Card)

■

Power

■

Printer

■

Display screen

■

Software application

■

Sound

■

Trackball/Mouse

■

Checklist

If you encounter some minor problem with your computer or
software application, go through the following checklist for pos­sible solutions before running the diagnostic utilities:

Is the computer connected to an external power source, or

■

does it have a fully charged battery pack installed?
Is the computer turned on and the power/standby indicator

■

light on?
Are all cables connected properly and securely?

■

Have you installed printer drivers for each application?

■

Did the diskette drive contain a non-bootable diskette when

■

you turned on the computer?

If correcting the items on this checklist does not solve the
problem, you may wish to run the Computer Checkup utility.
Refer to Chapter 10, "Diagnostics."

Troubleshooting

11-1

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Interpreting Messages
on the Screen

Many times a message or prompt is displayed on the screen.
However, a message does not necessarily mean that an error con­dition exists. It may be nothing more than an information mes­sage about what the computer is doing or a prompt reminding
you to enter information or press a key. The following list shows
typical examples of information messages:

A number might be displayed.

■

The number indicates the amount of memory in the computer.
Backing up files to drive A:

■

This message indicates that MS-DOS is backing up a file to
the diskette in drive A.

Exit this utility.

■

This message prompts you to exit a utility by following the
additional instructions on the screen.

A:> or A:

■

This prompt indicates that you are working from drive A.
C:> or C:

■

This prompt indicates that you are working from the hard
drive.

For error messages during the Power-On Self-Test (POST), see
Appendix B, "POST Error Messages."

Solving Minor Problems

While your computer is configured just for you, problems you
encounter while working may not be unique. Eliminating the
typical problems described in this section may save you time and
money. If you have a problem with your computer, consider the
causes and possible solutions outlined in the following tables.

If the problem appears related to a software application, also
check the documentation provided with the software. You may
discover something you can resolve easily yourself. If the condi­tion persists, contact your Compaq authorized service provider or
Compaq Customer Support.

11-2

Troubleshooting

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

A

Solving Battery Problems

Some common causes and solutions for battery problems are
listed in the following table. The "Solving Power Problems"
section in this chapter also may be helpful to you.

Battery Problems and Solutions

Problem Possible Cause Solution

Computer won't turn on
when battery pack is
inserted and AC

dapter is unplugged.

Computer beeped
and battery indicator
is blinking.

Battery pack is
discharged.

Battery charge is low or
computer has entered a
low-battery condition.

Connect the computer to
an external power
source and charge the
battery pack.

Replace the battery pack
with a fully charged
battery pack.

Save any open files and
do one of the following:

■

Connect the computer
to an external power
source, and then
charge the battery
pack.

■

Initiate Hibernation
(press Fn + power
button) to halt the
battery drain until you
can find another
power source or
charge the battery
pack.

Troubleshooting

Continued

11-3

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

A

Battery Problems and Solutions

Continued

Problem Possible Cause Solution

Battery charge
indicator blinks for
low-battery condition,
but computer didn't
beep.

Battery charge
indicator doesn't
turn on.

Battery charge
indicator is on, but
battery pack is not
fast charging.

Every time the
computer is turned
on, you have to set
the date and time.

Low-battery beeps are
turned off.

System beeps are off.

Battery pack is already
charged.

Battery pack was exposed
to temperature extremes.

Real-time clock battery is
at the end of its life.

Click the Conservation tab
on the Power icon in the
Control Panel and enable
low-battery warning
beeps.

Press Fn+F5 to turn on the
system beeps.

No action is necessary.

llow time for the battery
pack to return to room
temperature.

Call your Compaq
authorized service provider
to replace the real-time
clock battery.

Continued

11-4

Troubleshooting

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

A

Battery Problems and Solutions

Continued

Problem Possible Cause Solution

Battery charge doesn't
last as long as expected.

Battery pack is warm to
the touch after charging.

Battery pack is being
exposed to high
temperatures.

Battery pack is being
exposed to cold
temperatures.

Battery pack has partially
self-discharged.

Battery conservation is
disabled or set to
"None."

n external device (such
as a CD-ROM or PC Card)
is draining the battery.

Warming occurs due to
charging.

Keep computer at a
cooler temperature and
recharge battery pack.

Put computer in a
warmer place and
recharge battery pack.

Recharge the battery
pack.

Press Fn+F7 to set a new
battery conservation
level.

Turn off or remove the
external device when it is
not in use.

No action is required.

:

NOTE

The recommended operating temperature range for the

battery pack is between 50°F to 104°F (10°C to 40°C).

Store the battery pack in a cool, dry place when not in use. High

temperatures reduce the life of the battery pack and cause it to
lose its charge more quickly. If you are storing the battery for
less than one month, the recommended storage temperature is

-4°F to 122°F (-20°C to 50°C); for no more than three months,
the recommended temperature is -4°F to 104°F (-20°C to 40°C);
for an unlimited time, the recommended temperature is -4°F to
86°F (-20°C to 30°C).

Troubleshooting

11-5