Compaq M300 User Manual

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Compaq Armada M300

Series of Personal Computers

Reference Guide

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Compaq Armada M300 Series

Reference Guide

First Edition (June 1999) Part Number 113733-001 Compaq Computer Corporation

Notice

The information in this publication 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 INFORMATION IS PROVIDED “AS IS,” AND COMPAQ

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respective companies.

Compaq Armada M300 Series Reference Guide

First Edition (June 1999) Part Number 113733-001

About This Guide

Text Conventions..................................................................................................................... xiii

Symbols in Text.......................................................................................................................xiv

Chapter 1

Getting Started

Finding Information................................................................................................................. 1-1

Identifying Packing Box Contents............................................................................................1-1

Chapter 2

Taking a Look at the Computer

Top Components......................................................................................................................2-1

Left Side Components.............................................................................................................. 2-3

Right Side Components............................................................................................................2-4

Front Components.................................................................................................................... 2-5

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

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

External Diskette Drive............................................................................................................ 2-8

Connecting the Diskette Drive..........................................................................................2-8

Disconnecting the Diskette Drive .....................................................................................2-8

Versatile Battery Pack.............................................................................................................. 2-9

Chapter 3

Using the Keyboard

Using the Pointing Device........................................................................................................3-1

Identifying Keyboard Components...................................................................................3-1

Navigating with the TouchPad.......................................................................................... 3-2

Setting TouchPad Preferences...........................................................................................3-3

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

Hotkey Quick Reference...................................................................................................3-4

Enabling the Eurocurrency Symbol..................................................................................3-5

Using the Keyboard

Using the Embedded Numeric Keypad....................................................................................3-6

Toggling the Keypad On and Off......................................................................................3-6

Operating the Keypad Keys as Standard Keys..................................................................3-6

Enabling the Keypad at Startup.........................................................................................3-7

continued

Chapter 4

Managing Power

Selecting a Power Source......................................................................................................... 4-1

Beginning, Leaving, or Resuming Your Work.........................................................................4-3

Managing Low-Battery Conditions.......................................................................................... 4-5

Identifying Low-Battery Conditions.................................................................................4-5

Resolving Low-Battery Conditions...................................................................................4-6

Restoring from Hibernation After Resolving a Critical Low-Battery Condition.............. 4-7

Charging a Battery Pack...........................................................................................................4-7

Monitoring the Charge in a Battery Pack.................................................................................4-8

Using the Battery Charge Level Lights............................................................................. 4-9

Using the Battery Status Tab.............................................................................................4-9

Using the Battery Meter or Power Meter Icon..................................................................4-9

Using the Power or Power Meter Tab............................................................................. 4-10

Calibrating a Battery Pack......................................................................................................4-11

Running a Calibration..................................................................................................... 4-12

Stopping a Calibration ....................................................................................................4-13

Changing the Primary Battery Pack....................................................................................... 4-13

Removing the Primary Battery Pack............................................................................... 4-14

Installing the Primary Battery Pack ................................................................................4-15

Storing the Battery Pack .................................................................................................4-17

Using Power Preferences .......................................................................................................4-18

Setting Power Preferences in Windows 95 or Windows NT 4.0.....................................4-19

Setting Power Preferences in Windows 98.....................................................................4-21

Turning Auto Insert Notification On or Off.................................................................... 4-22

Conserving Battery Power .....................................................................................................4-22

Battery Power Conservation Checklist............................................................................4-22

Conserving Battery Power in Windows 95..................................................................... 4-23

Conserving Battery Power in Windows 98..................................................................... 4-23

Conserving Battery Power in Windows NT 4.0.............................................................. 4-24

Chapter 5

Upgrading Your Computer

Memory....................................................................................................................................5-1

Managing Random Access Memory (RAM)....................................................................5-1

Removing or Inserting a Memory Expansion Board.........................................................5-2

Hard Drives..............................................................................................................................5-6

Removing the Primary Hard Drive...................................................................................5-6

Inserting the Primary Hard Drive......................................................................................5-7

Caring for Drives .....................................................................................................................5-9

Changing the Startup Sequence with MultiBoot...............................................................5-9

Docking Devices.................................................................................................................... 5-10

Chapter 6

Mobile Expansion Unit (available on select models)

Connecting the Computer.........................................................................................................6-1

Disconnecting the Computer....................................................................................................6-2

Docking and Undocking to a Compatible Docking Device......................................................6-3

Turning Equipment On and Off...............................................................................................6-4

Connecting the AC Adapter..................................................................................................... 6-4

Connecting External Devices...................................................................................................6-5

Operating External Devices .....................................................................................................6-6

Drive Devices...........................................................................................................................6-6

Drives Support.................................................................................................................. 6-7

Removing a MultiBay Device...........................................................................................6-7

Inserting a MultiBay Device.............................................................................................6-9

Removing the Diskette Drive from the Diskette Drive Bay..............................................6-9

Inserting the Diskette Drive into the Diskette Drive Bay................................................6-10

vii

Chapter 7

Using an Internal Modem (available on select models)

Connecting the Modem Cable.................................................................................................. 7-1

Selecting Communications Software.......................................................................................7-2

Configuring the Modem...........................................................................................................7-2

Recommended Settings..................................................................................................... 7-2

Using Modem Commands and Dial Modifiers.................................................................7-3

Setting Modem Preferences..............................................................................................7-3

Using the Modem..................................................................................................................... 7-3

viii

Using an Internal Modem

Using the Modem While Traveling Internationally..................................................................7-5

Using a Country-Specific Modem Adapter.......................................................................7-5

Selecting a Country-Specific Modem Configuration........................................................7-6

Travel Connection Checklist............................................................................................. 7-6

continued

Chapter 8

Using PC Cards

Configuring a PC Card............................................................................................................. 8-1

Inserting or Removing a PC Card............................................................................................8-1

Inserting a PC Card...........................................................................................................8-2

Removing a PC Card.........................................................................................................8-3

Chapter 9

Using Audio Features

Using the Internal Microphone and Stereo Speakers................................................................9-1

Connecting an External Audio Device.....................................................................................9-3

Selecting an Audio Connector...........................................................................................9-3

Connecting a Device to the Microphone Jack................................................................... 9-3

Connecting a Device to the Stereo Speaker/Headphone Jack ...........................................9-4

Adjusting Volume....................................................................................................................9-5

Adjusting System Volume................................................................................................9-5

Chapter 10

Using the Infrared Port

Communicating with Infrared................................................................................................ 10-1

Configuring the Infrared Port.................................................................................................10-2

Enabling the Infrared Port......................................................................................................10-2

Chapter 11

Securing the Computer

Security Features Quick Reference........................................................................................ 11-1

If You Forget a Password.......................................................................................................11-1

Using a Power-On Password.................................................................................................. 11-2

Setting, Changing, or Deleting a Power-On Password....................................................11-2

Entering a Power-On Password ......................................................................................11-3

Securing the Computer

Using Quick Controls.............................................................................................................11-3

Setting, Changing, or Deleting Quick Control Preferences.............................................11-3

Initiating QuickLock Manually....................................................................................... 11-4

Exiting QuickLock.......................................................................................................... 11-4

Using a Setup Password.........................................................................................................11-4

Setting, Changing, or Deleting a Setup Password........................................................... 11-5

Entering a Setup Password.............................................................................................. 11-5

Using DriveLock.................................................................................................................... 11-6

Protecting a Hard Drive with DriveLock........................................................................ 11-7

Accessing a Protected Hard Drive ..................................................................................11-8

Changing a DriveLock Password or Removing DriveLock Protection from a Drive..... 11-8

Disabling a Device................................................................................................................. 11-9

Securing the Computer Hard Drive in the Bay.....................................................................11-10

Connecting an Optional Cable Lock.................................................................................... 11-11

continued

Chapter 12

Intelligent Manageability

Finding Intelligent Manageability Help.................................................................................12-1

Using Fault Management Alerts.............................................................................................12-2

Identifying a Fault Management Alert............................................................................12-2

Setting Fault Management Alert Preferences..................................................................12-2

Chapter 13

Maintenance, Shipping, and Travel

Updating the System.............................................................................................................. 13-1

Obtaining Customized Update Information with Info Messenger...................................13-1

Obtaining Software Updates and Enhancements by Subscription...................................13-1

Obtaining Software Updates from the Compaq Internet Site.......................................... 13-2

Updating the System ROM............................................................................................. 13-2

Reinstalling Software.............................................................................................................13-4

Replacing the Lithium Real Time Clock Battery................................................................... 13-4

Caring for the Computer ........................................................................................................13-5

Preparing the Computer for Shipping or Travel..................................................................... 13-6

Traveling with the Computer.................................................................................................13-6

Chapter 14

Configuration and Diagnostic Utilities

Selecting Computer Setup or Compaq Diagnostics for Windows..........................................14-1

Using Computer Setup........................................................................................................... 14-2

Selecting from the File Menu..........................................................................................14-2

Selecting from the Security Menu...................................................................................14-3

Selecting from the Advanced Menu................................................................................ 14-5

Using Compaq Diagnostics for Windows.............................................................................. 14-6

Displaying System Information......................................................................................14-7

Running a Diagnostic Test..............................................................................................14-7

Chapter 15

Troubleshooting

Quick Solutions Checklist...................................................................................................... 15-1

Solving Audio Problems........................................................................................................15-2

Solving Battery Problems.......................................................................................................15-4

Solving Drive Problems......................................................................................................... 15-7

Solving Hard Drive Problems......................................................................................... 15-7

Solving CD-ROM and DVD-ROM Drive Problems.......................................................15-8

Solving Diskette and SuperDisk LS-120 Drive Problems.............................................15-10

Solving Infrared Problems ...................................................................................................15-11

Solving Keyboard and Pointing Device Problems............................................................... 15-14

Solving Memory Problems...................................................................................................15-15

Solving Modem Problems.................................................................................................... 15-15

Solving PC Card Problems...................................................................................................15-21

Solving Power Problems...................................................................................................... 15-22

Solving Screen Problems .....................................................................................................15-24

Solving USB Problems ........................................................................................................ 15-25

Appendix A

Compaq Customer Support

Using the Worldwide Web...................................................................................................... A-1

Preparing to Call Technical Support....................................................................................... A-1

Worldwide Telephone Numbers .............................................................................................A-3

Appendix B

Regulatory Notices

Regulatory Agency Series Numbers....................................................................................... B-1

Telecom Network Approvals.................................................................................................. B-2

Federal Communications Commission Notice........................................................................ B-2

Modifications................................................................................................................... B-2

Cables .............................................................................................................................. B-3

Declaration of Conformity for Products Marked with the FCC Logo

(United States only) ......................................................................................................... B-3

Canadian Notice...................................................................................................................... B-3

Avis Canadien......................................................................................................................... B-4

Japanese Notice....................................................................................................................... B-4

Airline Travel Notice.............................................................................................................. B-4

Energy Star

Power Cords............................................................................................................................ B-4

Battery Notice......................................................................................................................... B-5

Laser Safety ............................................................................................................................ B-6

European Union Notice........................................................................................................... B-7

Safety Precautions for Modems .............................................................................................. B-8

U.S. Regulations Governing the Use of Modems....................................................................B-9

Telephone Consumer Protection Act of 1991....................................................................... B-10

Canadian Regulations Governing the Use of Modems.......................................................... B-10

New Zealand Modem Statements.......................................................................................... B-12

Macrovision Corporation Notice........................................................................................... B-13

Compliance........................................................................................................ B-4

CDRH Regulations .......................................................................................................... B-6

Appendix C

Electrostatic Discharge

Preventing Electrostatic Discharge ......................................................................................... C-1

When Handling Drives..................................................................................................... C-1

When Installing Internal Components.............................................................................. C-1

Grounding Methods ................................................................................................................ C-2

xii

Appendix D

Specifications

Computer Dimensions............................................................................................................. D-1

Operating Environment...........................................................................................................D-1

Rated Input Power................................................................................................................... D-2

Port and COM Port Settings.................................................................................................... D-2

Modem Specifications............................................................................................................. D-3

Index

About This Guide

This guide is designed to be used as step-by-step instructions for installation, and as a reference for operation, troubleshooting, and future upgrades.

Text Conventions

This document uses the following conventions to distinguish elements of text:

Keys Keys appear in boldface. A plus sign (+) between two

USER INPUT User input appears in a different typeface and in

FILENAMES File names appear in uppercase italics.

xiii

keys indicates that they should be pressed simultaneously.

uppercase.

Menu Options, Command Names, Dialog Box Names

COMMANDS, DIRECTORY NAMES, and DRIVE NAMES

Type When you are instructed to type information, type the

Enter When you are instructed to enter information, type the

These appear in initial capital letters.

These always appear in uppercase.

information without pressing the Enter key.

information and then press the Enter key.

xiv About This Guide

Symbols in Text

These symbols may be found in the text of this guide. They have the following meanings.

IMPORTANT: Presents clarifying information or specific instructions.

NOTE: Presents commentary, sidelights, or additional information.

WARNING: Indicates that failure to follow directions in the warning

could result in bodily harm or loss of life.

CAUTION: Indicates that failure to follow directions could result in damage to equipment or loss of information.

Chapter 1

Getting Started

Finding Information

■ For setup instructions, refer to the setup card included with the

computer.

■ To access the online Quick Reference to the computer ❏ Select the Armada Quick Reference icon on the desktop, or ❏ Select StartÅCompaq Information CenterÅArmada

Quick Reference.

■ To access additional information about the computer ❏ Select StartÅCompaq Information Center. ❏ Go to the Compaq Internet site at http://www.compaq.com.

■ To contact Compaq customer support, refer to Appendix A in this

Reference Guide.

1-1

Identifying Packing Box Contents

The contents of the packing box vary by geographic region and by the computer hardware configuration ordered.

The following picture and component list identify the standard components included with most computer models. As you unpack the box, make sure you have received all the standard and optional components you ordered.

1-2 Getting Started

Identifying Hardware Components

Component Function

Computer Compaq Armada M300 Personal

Computer.

External diskette drive Allows a diskette to be used with the

computer.

External diskette drive cable Connects external diskette drive to the

computer parallel port.

Power cord Connects AC Adapter to AC electrical

outlet.

AC Adapter Converts AC power to DC power.

Modem cable (internal modem models only)

Connects modem to RJ-11 telephone jack or to a country-specific adapter.

Continued

1-3

Identifying Hardware Components

Country-specific modem adapter (provided with internal modem models by region as required)

3-to-2-prong plug adapter (Japan only) Adapts the power cord for use with a

Hard drive (inserted in computer hard drive bay)

Battery pack (installed on rear of computer)

Continued

Adapts modem cable for use with nonRJ-11 telephone jacks.

2-prong electrical outlet. Primary hard drive when used in

computer hard drive bay. Primary battery pack.

NOTE: The battery pack can be charged and used as shipped, but battery charge displays will not be accurate until the battery pack is calibrated.

Chapter 2

Taking a Look at the Computer

Top Components

2-1

Top Components

Component Function

Display switch Turns off the computer display if the

computer is closed while on.

Scroll lock light On: Scroll lock is on.

Caps lock light On: Caps lock is on.

Num lock light On: Num lock is on and the embedded

numeric keypad is enabled.

Hard drive light On: The primary hard drive is being

accessed.

Diskette drive light On: The external diskette drive is being

accessed.

Continued

2-2 Taking a Look at the Computer

Top Components

Internal microphone Supports audio input when the display

Suspend button** Initiates and exits Suspend.* When

Windows application key Displays shortcut menu for item

Battery light On: The battery pack is charging.

;

Power/suspend light On: Power is turned on.

Continued

is open or closed.

pressed with the Fn key, initiates Hibernation.

beneath mouse cursor.

Blinking: The battery pack that is the only available power source has reached a low-battery condition.

Off: Power is turned off. Blinking: Computer is in Suspend.* NOTE: The power/suspend light also

blinks if a battery pack that is the only source of power available to the computer reaches a critical low-battery condition while Hibernation is disabled.

Right-click button Function like the right-click and right-

click buttons of an external mouse.

Left-click button Functions like the left-click button of an

external mouse. Used with the TouchPad, drags and

highlights.

TouchPad Moves the mouse cursor, selects, and

activates.

Microsoft logo key Displays Windows Start menu.

*In Windows 98 the term **In Windows 98 the term

Standby

replaces the term

sleep button

Suspend.

replaces the term

suspend button.

Left Side Components

Component Function

RJ-45 jack* Connects the network cable.

Power connector Connects the AC power adapter.

Power button Turns the computer on or off or exits

Vents Cools internal components.

Security cable slot Attaches an optional security cable to

Hard drive bay Holds primary hard drive.

2-3

Left Side Components

NOTE: A network cable is included with

network models.

Suspend.

the computer.

*WARNING: To reduce the risk of electric shock, fire, or damage to the equipment, do not plug a telephone cable into the Ethernet RJ-45 jack.

2-4 Taking a Look at the Computer

Right Side Components

PC Card slot Supports 32-bit (CardBus) and 16-bit

Air intake vents Cool internal components.

Air exhaust vents Cool internal components.

RJ-11 jack (internal modem models only) Connects the modem cable to an

Right Side Components

Component Function

PC Cards.

internal modem. NOTE: A modem cable is included with

internal modem models.

Front Components

Display release latch Opens the computer.

Stereo speaker/headphone jack Connects stereo speakers,

Microphone jack Connects a single sound

Power/suspend light On: Power is turned on.

2-5

Front Components

Component Function

headphones, or headset audio.

channel microphone.

Off: Power is turned off. Blinking: Computer is in Suspend. NOTE: The power/suspend light also

blinks if a battery pack that is the only source of power available to the computer reaches a critical low-battery condition while Hibernation is disabled.

Continued

2-6 Taking a Look at the Computer

Front Components

Battery light On: A battery pack is charging.

Rear Components

Continued

Blinking: A battery pack that is the only available power source has reached a low-battery condition.

Rear Components

Component Function

USB connector Connects USB devices.

Serial connector Connects a serial device.

Parallel connector Connects a parallel device.

External monitor connector Connects an external monitor,

overhead projector, or TV adapter.

Infrared port Links to another IrDA-compliant device

for wireless communication.

Bottom Components

Speaker Produces sound.

2-7

Bottom Components

Component Function

Serial number Identifies computer; needed when you

call Compaq customer support.

Real-time clock battery Provides battery power to automatically

display the date and time.

Battery latches Release the primary battery pack.

220-pin docking connector Connects the computer to a

docking base.

Hard drive security screw Secures hard drive in computer hard

drive bay.

Hard drive release latch Releases a hard drive from the hard

drive bay.

Modem compartment Provides access to the internal modem

(modem models only).

2-8 Taking a Look at the Computer

External Diskette Drive

The computer comes with an external diskette drive which can be used with floppy diskettes.

IMPORTANT: If you are using Windows 95, Windows 98, or Windows NT

4.0 preinstalled by Compaq, you do not need to turn off the computer before connecting or disconnecting the external diskette drive to the computer. If you installed Windows 95, Windows 98, or Windows NT 4.0 that you purchased separately, you must obtain additional software from Compaq to support connecting or disconnecting the drive while the computer is on or in Suspend (Standby). For more information about the software, refer to the Compaq Internet site at http://www.compaq.com.

Connecting the Diskette Drive

CAUTION: Electrostatic discharge can damage electronic

components. Before touching the diskette drive, ensure that you are discharged of static electricity by touching a grounded metal object.

To connect the external diskette drive to the computer:

1. Attach the small end of the drive cable to the external diskette drive

2. Attach the large end of the drive cable to the parallel port on the rear of

the computer

Disconnecting the Diskette Drive

To disconnect the external diskette drive from the computer:

1. Remove the diskette from the diskette drive.

2. Unscrew the small end of the drive cable from the external diskette drive 1.

3. Unscrew the large end of the drive cable from the parallel port on the rear of the computer

2-9

Versatile Battery Pack

The primary battery pack is a multifunctional feature of the computer. In addition to providing portable power, it

■ Creates a comfortable tilt for working at the keyboard. Fold the battery

pack back and under the computer.

■ Provides a cover for the rear connectors. Place the battery pack in a

straight position while the computer is lying flat.

Chapter 3

Using the Keyboard

Using the Pointing Device

The built-in TouchPad functions with any software that supports a Microsoftcompatible mouse.

NOTE: If you are using software that does not support a Microsoft-compatible mouse, select AdvancedÅDevice Options in Computer Setup, then select the Disable Multiple Pointing Devices check box. For more information on running Computer Setup, please refer to Chapter 14.

Identifying Keyboard Components

TouchPad

Left-click button

Right-click button

3-1

3-2 Using the Keyboard

Navigating with the TouchPad

Move the mouse pointer Move your finger directionally across the

Increase or decrease cursor speed Increase or decrease finger speed across

Right-, left-, or double-click Press the right- or left-click button as you

Highlight an item* Press down on the TouchPad as you move

Select text or an object* Position the mouse pointer over the

Activate a selection* Position the mouse pointer over the

TouchPad Procedures

Task Procedure

TouchPad surface.

the TouchPad surface.

would the corresponding click button on an external mouse.

the mouse pointer over the item.

highlighted text or object, then quickly tap the TouchPad once.

selection, then quickly tap the TouchPad twice.

NOTE: To select and activate a preference, first tap the preference once to select it, then tap the preference twice to activate it.

Select, then drag and drop an item* Press down on the TouchPad as you move

the mouse pointer over the item, then drag the item to the new location. To drop the item, release the pressure.

*To perform this task exactly as you would with an external mouse, use the left-click button like an external mouse left-click button.

Setting TouchPad Preferences

To access all TouchPad features and settings including mouse trails, cursor speed, double-click pace, and Windows 98 single-click mode, select StartÅ SettingsÅControl PanelÅMouse.

Using Hotkeys

Hotkeys are preset combinations of the Fn key 2 plus a second key that take you to frequently used system functions. The icons on the function keys

(F1-F10)

■ To use hotkeys on an external keyboard which does not have an Fn

■ To close a window opened with hotkeys, use standard Windows

represent these functions.

key, press the Scroll Lock key twice, then the second key only of the hotkeys combination. For example, to use the Fn+F3 hotkeys, press

Scroll Lock+Scroll Lock+F3. NOTE: The Fn+F6 (Initiate Quick Controls) hotkeys cannot be used on an

external keyboard connected through a USB connector.

procedures or press the hotkeys again.

3-3

3-4 Using the Keyboard

Task Hotkeys

Switch the display and image. Fn+F4 Adjust system volume. Fn+F5 Initiate Quick Controls. Fn+F6 Set a power conservation level. Fn+F7 View battery charge status. Fn+F8 Adjust screen brightness. Fn+F10 Display system information. Fn+Esc Stretch text. Fn+T

Switching the Display and Image

In Windows 95 or Windows NT 4.0 toggle Fn+F4 to switch the image among the computer display, an external display, and simultaneous display. The external display can be connected through the external monitor connector.

In Windows 98 toggle Fn+F4 to switch the image between the computer display and an external display that is connected through the external monitor connector.

Hotkeys Quick Reference

■ When MultiMonitor is enabled, press Fn+F4 to turn off the external

display and disable MultiMonitor.

■ When MultiMonitor is disabled, toggle Fn+F4 to switch the image

among the computer display, the external display, and simultaneous display.

Adjusting System Volume

■ To adjust system volume with an onscreen slide button or with the

keyboard arrow keys, press Fn+F5.

■ To mute or restore volume

❏ Press Fn+F5+M

❏ Press Fn+F5, then select or clear the Mute checkbox.

Initiating Quick Controls

Quick Controls security features disable the keyboard and pointing device and clear the screen. Before you can use Quick Controls, you must set a power-on password and enable Quick Control preferences. For instructions, refer to Chapter 11.

■ To initiate Quick Controls manually, press Fn+F6.

■ To exit Quick Controls, enter your power-on password.

The Fn+F6 hotkeys cannot be used on an external keyboard connected through a USB connector on the computer or an optional docking base.

Setting a Power Conservation Level

In Windows 98 press Fn+F7 to open the Power Schemes window. In Windows 95 or Windows NT 4.0 press Fn+F7 to open the Battery

Conservation Settings window.

■ To select a preset battery conservation level, choose among

❏ High—Maximizes running time from a single charge. ❏ Medium—Balances system performance with running time. ❏ None (Drain)—Runs the computer at full power.

■ For information about the Custom level, refer to “Using Power

Preferences” in Chapter 4.

3-5

Viewing Battery Charge Status

Press Fn+F8 to view the status of all installed battery packs. Battery packs are listed by location.

■ To display the location of a listed battery pack, select the corresponding

battery icon.

■ A lightening bolt icon beside a battery icon indicates that the battery

pack in that location is charging.

3-6 Using the Keyboard

Adjusting Screen Brightness

Press Fn+F10 to adjust the brightness of the computer screen with an onscreen slide button or with the arrow keys.

Displaying System Information

Press Fn+Esc to display information about system hardware components and software version numbers.

The number beside System BIOS is the version number of your

NOTE:

system ROM.

Stretching Text

When the computer is running MS-DOS under Windows and the desktop area resolution is set lower than the display resolution, press Fn+T to toggle the image between Text Stretch, which stretches the text to fill more of the screen, and Regular. Text Stretch is the default. While Regular is selected, a graphics accelerator cannot be enabled.

Enabling the Eurocurrency Symbol

Your computer can generate the Eurocurrency symbol when pressing the Alt Gr+4, 5, e, or u key combinations. The key combination for your computer is dependent on the keyboard for your country and the keyboard language settings in the operating system. On keyboards without the Alt Gr (alternate graphics) key, use the Alt key to the right of the spacebar.

Using the Embedded Numeric Keypad

Toggling the Keypad On and Off

To convert the embedded numeric keypad section 1 of the computer keyboard to a numeric keypad, press Fn+Num Lk

❏ When the embedded numeric keypad is enabled, the characters

upper-right on the keypad keys are active and the Num Lk light is on.

❏ To disable the embedded numeric keypad, toggle Fn+Num Lk.

■ The embedded numeric keypad cannot be enabled while an optional

external keyboard or numeric keypad is connected to the computer.

3-7

Operating the Keypad Keys as Standard Keys

To use the embedded numeric keypad keys as standard keyboard keys while the keypad is enabled:

■ Press and hold Fn to type in lowercase.

■ Press and hold Fn+Shift to type in uppercase.

3-8 Using the Keyboard

Enabling the Keypad at Startup

To set the computer to start up with the embedded numeric keypad enabled:

1. Turn on or restart the computer, then press F10 when the blinking cursor appears in the upper-right corner of the screen.

❏ To change the language, press F2. ❏ For navigation instructions, press F1.

2. Select AdvancedÅDevice Options, then press Enter.

3. Toggle the field beside Num Lock State at Boot to On, then press F10.

4. To save your preferences, close Computer Setup, and restart the computer, select FileÅSave Changes and Exit, then press Enter.

5. When you are prompted to confirm your action, press F10.

To disable the embedded numeric keypad at start up, repeat the above procedure with the Num Lock State at Boot field toggled Off.

NOTE: The embedded numeric keypad can be enabled or disabled with Fn+Num Lk in either startup state.

Chapter 4

Managing Power

Selecting a Power Source

WARNING: To reduce the risk of personal injury, electric shock,

fire, or damage to the equipment:

■ Do not disable the power cord grounding plug. The

grounding plug is an important safety feature.

■ Plug the equipment into a grounded (earthed) electrical outlet

that is easily accessible at all times.

■ Disconnect power from the equipment by unplugging the

power cord from the electrical outlet.

■ Do not place anything on power cords or cables. Arrange

them so that no one may accidentally step on or trip over them.

■ Do not pull on a cord or cable. When unplugging from the

electrical outlet, grasp the cord by the plug.

4-1

Selecting a Power Source

Task Recommended Power Source

Work within installed software applications

■ Charged battery pack inserted into

the computer

■ External power supplied through

❏ AC Adapter ❏ Optional docking base ❏ Optional Automobile Power

Adapter/Charger or

❏ Optional Aircraft Power

Adapter

Continued

4-2 Managing Power

Selecting a Power Source

Continued

Charge a battery pack in the computer External power supplied through

■ AC Adapter

■ Optional docking base

■ Optional Automobile Power

Adapter/Charger

Calibrate a battery pack External power supplied through

■ AC Adapter

■ Optional docking base

Modify system software External power supplied through the AC

Adapter

Beginning, Leaving, or Resuming Your Work

You will observe the power button 1, Suspend button 2, Fn key 3, and the power/suspend light as you turn the computer on or off or place it in Suspend (Standby) or Hibernation.

■ Suspend, called Standby in Windows 98, is an energy-saving feature

that reduces power to system components that are not being used. When the computer is in Suspend (Standby), your work is saved in random access memory (RAM) and the screen is cleared.

■ Hibernation is an energy-saving feature that saves all information in

RAM to a hibernation file on the hard drive, then shuts down the computer.

4-3

If you are leaving your work, consider: If you plan to resume shortly—Initiating Suspend (Standby) clears the screen,

uses less power than leaving the computer on, and your work returns instantly to the screen when you press the suspend button. A fully charged battery pack can support Suspend (Standby) for up to a week, but frequent charging and discharging may shorten battery pack life.

4-4 Managing Power

If the computer will be disconnected from external power for more than two weeks—To extend the useful life of the battery pack, shut down the

computer, then remove the battery pack and store it in a cool, dry place. If you plan to resume within two weeks—Initiating Hibernation clears the

screen, saves your work to the hard drive, and uses less power than Suspend (Standby). A fully charged battery pack supports Hibernation indefinitely.

Turn the computer on

Beginning, Leaving, or Resuming Your Work

Task Procedure Result

Press power button. Power/suspend* light turns on.

Operating system loads.

Turn the computer off

Initiate Suspend*

Exit Suspend*

*In Windows 98 the term **In Windows 98 the term

Click StartÅShut Down. Power/suspend* light turns off.

■ Press suspend button.**

■ Select Standby (Windows 98

only) on the Shut Down menu.

■ Press suspend button.**

■ Press power button.

Standby

sleep button

replaces the term

Operating system closes and turns off all power.

Computer turns off. Power/suspend* light blinks. System beeps twice. Screen clears.

Power/suspend* light turns on. System beeps once. Your work returns to the screen.

Suspend.

suspend button.

Continued

4-5

Beginning, Leaving, or Resuming Your Work

Initiate Hibernation

Restore from Hibernation

*In Windows 98 the term **In Windows 98 the term

Press Fn + suspend button.** Power/suspend* light turns off.

Press power button. Power/suspend* light turns on.

Standby

replaces the term

sleep button

replaces the term

Managing Low-Battery Conditions

Identifying Low-Battery Conditions

■ When a battery pack that is the only source of power available to the

computer reaches a low-battery condition

❏ The system beeps 5 times.

Continued

Suspend.

System beeps twice. Screen clears.

System beeps once. Your work returns to the screen.

suspend button.

❏ The battery light

■ If the low-battery condition is not resolved, the computer will enter a

blinks.

critical low-battery condition. In a critical low-battery condition,

❏ If Hibernation is enabled and the computer is on or in Suspend

(Standby)

The computer beeps twice, then initiates Hibernation.

Hibernation is enabled by default.

❏ If Hibernation is disabled and the computer is on or in Suspend

(Standby)

blinks. The computer remains briefly in Suspend (Standby), then

The computer beeps twice, and the power/suspend light

shuts down and your unsaved work is lost.

4-6 Managing Power

Resolving Low-Battery Conditions

■ If external power is available, do one of the following ❏ Connect the computer to an electrical outlet with the AC Adapter. ❏ Dock the computer and mobile expansion unit in a docking base that

is connected to external power.

❏ Plug an optional Automobile Power Adapter/Charger into the power

connector on the computer and into a vehicle cigarette lighter receptacle.

❏ Plug an optional Aircraft Power Adapter into the power connector

on the computer and into the in-seat power supply available on some commercial aircraft.

NOTE: An optional Aircraft Power Adapter can be used to run the computer but cannot be used to charge a battery pack.

■ If a charged battery pack is available Save your work, shut down the

computer, then remove the discharged battery pack and insert a charged battery pack.

■ If neither external power nor a charged battery pack is available— ❏ Press Fn + suspend button to initiate Hibernation

❏ Save your work, then shut down the computer.

Restoring from Hibernation After Resolving a Critical Low-Battery Condition

Press the power button. If the computer does not have enough power to restore your work,

1. Press Ctrl+Alt+Del to abort the restoration.

2. Attach a charged battery pack or connect the computer to external power.

3. Press the power button.

Charging a Battery Pack

4-7

When a battery pack is installed in the computer or an optional Battery Charger or docking base, the battery pack is charged whenever external power is available.

NOTE: Charging may be delayed if a battery pack is new, has not been used for 2 weeks or more, or is much warmer or cooler than a comfortable room temperature.

■ If you are charging the battery pack in the computer— ❏ External power can be supplied to the computer from an external

power source.

NOTE: An optional Aircraft Power Adapter cannot be used to charge a battery pack.

4-8 Managing Power

■ To increase the accuracy of all battery charge displays—

❏ The battery light, shown below, turns on while the battery pack is

charging and turns off when the battery pack is fully charged.

❏ Allow a battery pack to discharge to the low-battery level through

normal use before charging it.

❏ When you charge a battery pack, charge it fully. ❏ Before charging a new battery pack or a battery pack that has not

been used for 2 weeks or more, calibrate the new battery pack or check the calibration on the unused battery pack.

Monitoring the Charge in a Battery Pack

NOTE: The references in Windows 98 battery charge displays to a “standard

APM battery pack” apply to all battery packs that can be used in the computer.

Using the Battery Charge Level Lights

The battery quick check feature enables you to monitor the charge in the primary battery pack.

■ To display the percent of a full charge remaining in a battery pack, press

the button on the battery pack.

■ Each battery charge level light represents a percentage of a full charge.

For example, when all lights are on, the battery pack is fully charged.

Using the Battery Status Tab

To access the Battery Status tab, select StartÅSettingsÅControl PanelÅpower icon (named Power, Power Management, or Compaq Power, depending on your operating system)ÅBattery Status tab.

■ To display the location of a listed battery, select the corresponding

battery icon.

■ A lightning bolt icon beside a battery icon indicates that the battery pack

in that location is charging.

4-9

Using the Battery Meter or Power Meter Icon

The battery meter icon, called the power meter icon in Windows 98, indicates whether the computer is running on external power or on a full, half-full, or nearly discharged battery pack.

To display the battery meter icon in the taskbar

■ In Windows 95 select StartÅ SettingsÅControl

PanelÅPowerÅBattery Status tab, then select the Show Battery Meter on the Taskbar check box.

■ In Windows 98 select StartÅ SettingsÅControl PanelÅPower

ManagementÅPower Meter tab, then select the Show Power Meter on the Taskbar check box.

■ In Windows NT 4.0 the battery meter icon displays in the taskbar by

default. In addition, you can select StartÅSettingsÅControl PanelÅCompaq PowerÅBattery Status tab.

4-10 Managing Power

When the battery meter or power meter icon is displayed in the taskbar, the icon can also be used as follows.

In Windows 95 and Windows 98—

View the total battery power remaining in the system.

Task Procedure

Rest the cursor over the icon.

Enable/disable an on-screen critical lowbattery warning.

Access the Power tab in the Power Properties window.

Open battery meter in a popup window. Double-click the icon. Display charge information as a percent of a

full charge or as the run time remaining.

In Windows NT 4.0—

Task Procedure

View the total battery power remaining in the system.

Open the Compaq Power Properties window. Double-click or right-click the icon.

Using the Power or Power Meter Tab

Left-click the icon, select or clear the Enable Low Battery Warning check box, then select OK.

Right-click the icon, select Adjust Power Properties, then press Enter.

Left-click the icon, then select your preference in the popup window.

Rest the cursor over the icon.

The power tab, called the power meter tab in Windows 98, is available in Windows 95 and Windows 98.

■ To access the tab ❏ In Windows 95 select StartÅSettingsÅControl PanelÅ

PowerÅPower tab.

❏ In Windows 98 select StartÅSettingsÅControl PanelÅ Power

ManagementÅPower Meter tab.

■ To view the combined percent of total power remaining in all battery

packs in the system, clear the Show the Status of All Batteries check box.

■ To view the percent of total power remaining in each battery pack in the

system, select the Show the Status of All Batteries check box.

Calibrating a Battery Pack

Calibration increases the accuracy of all battery charge displays. The calibration utility supports all battery packs that can be used in the

computer. Use the calibration utility both to check the calibration of a battery pack and to

calibrate or recalibrate a battery pack.

■ A battery pack cannot be calibrated unless the utility reports that it needs

calibration.

❏ A new battery pack can be charged, then used to run the computer

before the battery pack is calibrated. However, the amount of charge in the new battery pack cannot be reported accurately until the new battery pack has been calibrated.

4-11

❏ Check the calibration of a used battery pack periodically and

whenever battery charge displays seem inaccurate.

■ While a battery pack is being calibrated, it is fully charged, then fully

discharged.

❏ A battery calibration icon in the taskbar displays an Up arrow during

the charge phase and a Down arrow during the discharge phase.

❏ A calibration cannot resume if the calibration is stopped or if the

computer is shut down during a calibration. An interrupted calibration must be restarted.

❏ After calibration, a battery pack must be charged before it can be

used to run the computer.

4-12 Managing Power

■ The calibration utility calibrates one battery pack at a time and can run in

Running a Calibration

1. To check the calibration of a battery pack—Attach the battery pack to

2. Access the Battery Calibration tab.

the background as you use the computer or overnight.

CAUTION: To prevent loss of work, ensure that the computer remains connected to AC power throughout a calibration.

the computer or insert a battery pack into the MultiBay of the mobile expansion unit. If you insert the battery pack into the expasnion unit’s MultiBay, connect the computer and expansion unit system to external power.

To calibrate a battery pack—Attach the battery pack to the computer. Then connect the computer to external power with the AC Adapter or dock the computer and mobile expansion unit in a docking base that is connected to external power

■ In Windows 95 select StartÅSettingsÅControl

PanelÅPowerÅBattery Calibration tab.

■ In Windows 98 select StartÅSettingsÅControl PanelÅPower

ManagementÅBattery Calibration tab.

■ In Windows NT 4.0 select StartÅSettingsÅControl

PanelÅCompaq PowerÅBattery Calibration tab.

3. View the calibration reports in the Status column. The battery numbers in the Battery column correspond to the following locations:

Battery Number Battery Pack Location

1 Computer battery bay 2 Mobile expansion unit MultiBay

4. Select any location number with “Needs calibration” beside it in the

Status column.

5. Select the Start Calibration button.

Stopping a Calibration

Shut down the computer or select the Stop Calibration button on the Battery Calibration tab. The Stop Calibration button is visible only during a calibration.

Changing the Primary Battery Pack

4-13

The primary battery pack is the battery pack attached to the computer.

NOTE: For information on using a battery pack in the mobile expansion unit MultiBay, refer to Chapter 6.

CAUTION: If the computer is on, you must initiate Hibernation or shut down power before removing or installing the battery pack. Failure to do so will result in loss of information.

WARNING: To reduce the risk of personal injury or damage to the battery pack, do not crush, puncture, or incinerate the battery pack or short the metal contacts. Do not attempt to open or service the battery pack.

4-14 Managing Power

Removing the Primary Battery Pack

1. If the computer is on, save your work and initiate Hibernation or shut down the computer.

2. Turn the computer bottom side up and tilt the battery pack so it lies flat (covering all ports on the rear of the computer).

3. Slide in the two battery latches toward each other.

4. Rotate the battery pack 90 degrees 1, and lift up the battery pack from

the computer

Installing the Primary Battery Pack

1. If the computer is on, save your work and initiate Hibernation or shut down the computer.

4-15

2. Turn the computer bottom side up.

4-16 Managing Power

3. Slide in the two battery latches toward each other.

4. Push the battery pack onto the computer until the contacts connect 1, and

rotate the battery pack 90 degrees toward the back of the computer

4-17

5. Slide the two battery latches out (away from each other)

Storing the Battery Pack

If the computer will be unused and unplugged from an external power source for more than two weeks, remove and store the battery pack(s).

Proper storage procedures reduce the self-discharge rate of a battery pack. Store a battery pack in a cool, dry place within the following temperature ranges.

CAUTION: To prevent damage to a battery pack, do not expose it to high temperatures for extended periods of time.

4-18 Managing Power

Recommended Battery Pack Storage Temperatures

Storage Time Temperature Range

Less than 1 month 32°–122° 0°–50° No more than 3 months 32°–104° 0°–40° Unlimited 32°– 86° 0°–30°

Using Power Preferences

You can increase, decrease, and allocate the power used by the computer by setting power preferences.

■ Increasing power increases performance, while decreasing power

conserves energy and extends the running time from a battery pack.

■ By decreasing power to unused components and functions, you can

allocate more power to the components and functions that you are using.

Many power preferences are timeout settings.

■ A timeout is the period of inactivity before the system initiates a power

change or reduces power to a component. For example, the computer is preset to initiate Suspend (Standby) after a period of inactivity. The time interval between when you stop using the computer and the onset of computer-initiated Suspend (Standby) is a Suspend (Standby) timeout.

Temperature Range

°F

°C

■ Depending on your operating system, you can set timeouts that are

specific to various conditions, components, or procedures as well as specify the duration of those timeouts.

For additional power options, refer to your operating system documentation. For a summary of battery conservation settings that extend the running time from a single charge, refer to “Conserving Battery Power” later in this chapter.

The following tables list power procedures that are not described in your operating system documentation.

Setting Power Preferences in Windows 95 or Windows NT 4.0

Preferences Procedure from Control Panel

Select a preset level of power use that applies whenever the computer is running on a battery pack.

NOTE: A battery conservation level can also be displayed and selected with the Fn+F7 hotkeys.

4-19

Select Power (or Compaq Power in Windows NT)ÅBattery Conservation Settings tab, then select a conservation level:

■ High provides maximum battery

conservation.

■ Medium balances battery

conservation and system performance.

■ None (drain) results in maximum

battery drain because battery conservation is turned off. Recommended only for discharging the battery pack.

Create a level of power use that applies settings for the following whenever the computer is running on a battery pack:

■ Suspend timeout

■ System idle timeout

■ Processor speed

■ Screen brightness

Select Power (or Compaq Power in Windows NT)ÅBattery Conservation Settings tab. Select Custom, then enter your preferences.

NOTE: Although a battery conservation level can be displayed and selected with the Fn+F7 hotkeys, Custom level preferences must be entered on the Battery Conservation Settings tab.

Continued

4-20 Managing Power

Setting Power Preferences in Windows 95 or Windows NT 4.0

In Windows NT, create a general level of power use that applies whenever the computer is running on external AC power. You can enter settings for

■ Screen save timeout

■ Hard drive timeout

■ Energy-saving monitor timeout

1. Select Compaq PowerÅAC Energy Saver tab.

2. Select the AC Energy Saver On button.

3. To set a screen save timeout, select a timeout in the Screen Save drop-down list.

4. To set a hard drive timeout, select a timeout in the Hard Disk Idle

Continued

drop-down list.

5. To enable an external monitor to enter a low-power mode following a screen save timeout, select the Energy Save Monitor check box.

NOTE: You will not be logged off a network when the monitor enters lowpower mode.

Enable/disable low-battery warning beeps. Select Power (or Compaq Power in

Windows NT)ÅBattery Conservation Settings tab, then select the On or Off button.

Set Hibernation timeout. Select Power (or Compaq Power in

Windows NT)ÅHibernation tab, then select a timeout from the Timeout drop-down list.

NOTE: This setting does not affect system-initiated Hibernation during a critical low-battery condition.

Exit Suspend after a user-selected timeout. Select Power (or Compaq Power in

Windows NT)ÅResume Timer tab. Select the Enabled check box, then select a date from the Date drop-down list and a time from the Time drop-down list.

Continued

4-21

Setting Power Preferences in Windows 95 or Windows NT 4.0

Set computer to initiate Hibernation rather than Suspend.

In Windows 95, turn off power to an optional PC Card modem.

Change location of Hibernation file. Select Power (or Compaq Power in

Enable/Disable Hibernation. Select Power (or Compaq Power in

Select Power (or Compaq Power in Windows NT)ÅHibernation tab, then select Standby in the Timeout drop-down list.

Select PowerÅPC Card Modems tab, then select Turn Off Power to PC Card Modem When Not in Use check box.

Windows NT)ÅHibernation tab, then select the new location from the Drive for Hibernation File drop-down list.

Windows NT)ÅHibernation tab, then select the On or Off button.

CAUTION: If the computer reaches a critical low-battery condition while Hibernation is turned off, unsaved work can be lost.

Continued

Setting Power Preferences in Windows 98

To access most power settings—Select StartÅ SettingsÅControl PanelÅPower Management. For information about setting all Power Management settings except the following, refer to your Windows98 documentation.

To enable or disable hibernation—Select the hibernation tab, then select the on or off button.

To set a screen brightness level that applies when the computer is running on a battery pack—Select Power ManagementÅBattery Conservation Settings

tab, then select a percent from the Brightness drop-down list.

4-22 Managing Power

If you are accustomed to running Windows 95 or Windows NT 4.0 on a Compaq portable computer—You will find most of the power options you

formerly accessed in Power Properities in the Windows 98 Power Management Properties window. However, in windows 98

■ Processor speed is managed by the operating system.

■ The easiest way to turn off power to a PC Card is to remove the

PC Card.

■ The Fn+F7 hotkeys open the Power Schemes window.

■ The preferences you formerly set on the Resume Timer tab can be set at

StartÅProgramsÅAccessoriesÅSystem ToolsÅScheduled Tasks.

Turning Auto Insert Notification On or Off

When using the computer with the mobile expansion unit, auto insert notification runs a CD-ROM or DVD-ROM on insertion in the expansion unit MultiBay, but drains power and prevents system-initiated Suspend (Standby). To turn off auto insert notification:

■ In Windows 95 or Windows 98 select StartÅSettingsÅ Control

PanelÅSystemÅDevice ManagerÅCD-ROMÅ Properties. Clear the CD-ROM Auto Insert Notification check box.

■ In Windows NT 4.0 select StartÅSettingsÅControl PanelÅCompaq

PowerÅBattery Conservation Settings tab. Clear the CD-ROM Auto Insert Notification check box.

To turn on auto insert notification, access the CD-ROM Auto Insert Notification check box as instructed above, then select the check box.

Conserving Battery Power

Battery Power Conservation Checklist

■ Exit modem applications and turn off local area network (LAN)

connections when you are not using them.

■ Disconnect external equipment you are not using that is not connected to

an external power source.

■ If you leave your work, initiate Suspend (Standby) or Hibernation or

shut down the computer.

■ Remove PC Cards you are not using.

■ Use the Fn+F10 hotkeys to quickly raise and lower display brightness as

you work.

■ Run the computer on external power while formatting a diskette.

■ When using the computer with the mobile expansion unit and a CD-

ROM or DVD-ROM drive is in the system, select StartÅSettingsÅControl PanelÅSystemÅDevice ManagerÅCD-ROM properties, then clear the CD-ROM Auto Insert Notification check box.

Conserving Battery Power in Windows 95

■ Select StartÅSettingsÅControl PanelÅPower. Then: ❏ On the Battery Conservation Settings tab, select the High or Custom

battery conservation level. If Custom is selected, enter lower settings.

❏ On the Disk Drives tab, set a low When Powered by Batteries

timeout for the disk drive.

4-23

❏ If you are using a PC Card modem, select the PC Card Modems tab,

then click the Turn Off PC Card Modems When Not in Use check box.

■ If Infrared Monitor is enabled, select StartÅSettingsÅControl

PanelÅInfraredÅOptions tab, then clear the Search for and Provide Status for Devices in range check box.

IMPORTANT: You cannot establish an infrared link while this check box is cleared. For more information about infrared, refer to Chapter 10.

Conserving Battery Power in Windows 98

■ Select StartÅSettingsÅControl PanelÅPower ManagementÅPower

Schemes tab, then create a power scheme that conserves battery power.

■ Select StartÅSettingsÅControl PanelÅPower ManagementÅBattery

Conservation Settings. Then select a low screen brightness.

4-24 Managing Power

■ Choose the Infrared icon in the task bar, select the Options tab, then

clear the Search for and Provide Status for Devices in Range check box.

IMPORTANT: You cannot establish an infrared link while this check box is cleared. For more information about infrared, refer to Chapter 10.

Conserving Battery Power in Windows NT 4.0

Select the Start buttonÅSettingsÅControl PanelÅCompaq PowerÅBattery Conservation Settings tab, then select the High or Custom conservation level. If Custom is selected, enter lower settings.

Chapter 5

Upgrading Your Computer

Memory

Managing Random Access Memory (RAM)

To view the amount of existing random access memory (RAM) in the system

■ In Windows 95 or Windows 98 select StartÅ SettingsÅControl

PanelÅCompaq Diagnostics.

■ In Windows NT 4.0 select StartÅProgramsÅ Administrative

ToolsÅCompaq Diagnostics.

You can increase RAM with optional memory expansion boards. For ordering information, go to the Compaq Internet site at http://www.compaq.com or refer to Appendix A to contact a Compaq authorized dealer, reseller, or service provider.

When RAM increases, the hard drive space reserved for the hibernation file also increases. Windows 98 manages this increase. If the computer is running Windows 95 or Windows NT 4.0 and you experience problems with Hibernation after increasing RAM, verify that your hard drive has enough free space for the larger hibernation file.

5-1

■ To view the amount of space required by a hibernation file ❏ In Windows 95 or Windows 98 select StartÅSettingsÅControl

PanelÅPowerÅHibernation tab.

❏ In Windows NT 4.0 select StartÅSettingsÅControl

PanelÅCompaq PowerÅHibernation tab.

■ To view the amount of free space on your hard drive, select My

ComputerÅright-click your hard driveÅProperties.

5-2 Upgrading Your Computer

Removing or Inserting a Memory Expansion Board

NOTE: There is only one memory expansion slot in the computer. Before

upgrading memory, you must remove the memory board that came with the computer.

WARNING: The memory compartment and the real time clock battery compartment are the only user-accessible internal compartments on the computer. All other areas that require a tool to access should be opened only by a Compaq authorized service provider.

WARNING: Failure to unplug the power cord and remove the battery pack before installing a memory expansion board can damage the equipment and expose you to the risk of electrical shock.

CAUTION: Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can damage electronic components. Before beginning this procedure, ensure that you are properly grounded. For more information, refer to Appendix C,

“Electrostatic Discharge.”

1. Shut down the computer.

NOTE: To ensure that the computer is not in hibernation, turn the computer on, then shut it down.

2. Disconnect all external devices connected to the computer.

3. Disconnect the AC Adapter and remove the battery pack from the computer.

4. Gently press down on each of the three tabs along the top edge of the

keyboard 45-degree angle from the computer

5. If applicable, turn back the memory insulator.

, then lift along the top edge to raise the keyboard at a

5-3

5-4 Upgrading Your Computer

6. To remove the memory board, pull away the plastic retention clips on

each side of the memory expansion board board tilts upward.

7. Lift the edge of the memory expansion board and slide it gently out of the

memory expansion slot at a 45-degree angle

. The memory expansion

8. Place the removed memory expansion board in an electrostatic-safe

container.

9. To add a memory board, insert the memory expansion board into the

empty memory expansion slot at a 45-degree angle gently into place until it is seated while tilted.

NOTE: All memory expansion boards supported by the computer are keyed (notched) to ensure correct positioning.

. Then slide it

5-5

10. Push the memory expansion board down until the plastic retention clips

snap into place.

11. Replace the memory insulator, if applicable.

12. Replace the keyboard by gently pressing down on the top of the keyboard

until it clicks into place.

5-6 Upgrading Your Computer

Hard Drives

CAUTION: To prevent damage to the computer and drive and

loss of information, turn off the computer before removing or inserting the hard drive. Do not remove or insert the drive while the computer is turned on, in Suspend (Standby), or in Hibernation.

Electrostatic discharge can damage electronic components. Before touching the hard drive, ensure that you are discharged of static electricity by touching a grounded metal object.

NOTE: The primary hard drive cannot be used in the mobile expansion unit MultiBay. For information on using hard drives in the mobile expansion unit MultiBay, refer to Chapter 6.

Removing the Primary Hard Drive

1. If the computer is on, save your work and shut down the computer.

NOTE: To ensure that the computer is not in hibernation, turn the computer on, then shut it down.

2. Turn the computer bottom side up, and remove the hard drive screw

3. Pull up on the drive’s front bezel 2, and slide the hard drive from the bay

Inserting the Primary Hard Drive

1. If the computer is on, save your work and shut down the computer.

5-7

NOTE: If you are unsure whether the computer is off or in Hibernation, turn

the computer on by pressing the power button, then shut it down.

2. Turn the computer bottom side up.

5-8 Upgrading Your Computer

3. Slide the hard drive into the bay until the connector is seated 1, then push

the drive’s front bezel down to secure the drive

4. Insert the hard drive screw into the computer 3.

Caring for Drives

5-9

CAUTION: To prevent loss of work and/or damage to the

computer or a drive:

■ Shut down the computer before removing or inserting a hard

drive. Do not remove or insert a hard drive while the computer is on, in Suspend (Standby), or in Hibernation. If you are not certain whether the computer is off or in Hibernation, turn the computer on, then shut it down.

■ Before handling a drive, ensure that you are discharged of

static electricity. While handling a drive, avoid touching the connector. For more information about preventing electrostatic damage, refer to Appendix C.

■ Before traveling with, shipping, storing, or removing a drive

other than a hard drive, make sure that no media, such as a diskette or CD-ROM, is in the drive and that the media tray is closed.

■ Handle a drive carefully; do not drop it.

■ Do not use excessive force when inserting a drive.

■ Avoid exposing a hard drive to liquids, temperature extremes,

or products that have magnetic fields such as monitors or speakers.

■ If a drive must be mailed, place the drive in a bubble-pack

mailer or other suitable protective packaging and label the package “Fragile: Handle With Care.”

Changing the Startup Sequence with MultiBoot

When the computer is attached to the mobile expansion unit and more than one drive is in the system, the computer selects the drive to start from by searching for, first, a bootable CD-ROM or DVD-ROM; second, a bootable diskette; and third, a bootable hard drive.

NOTE: A bootable device contains files needed by the computer to start up and operate properly.

5-10 Upgrading Your Computer

The computer can start from

■ Any bootable hard drive in the computer or diskette in the external

diskette drive.

■ Any bootable diskette (but not a SuperDisk LS-120 drive diskette) or

hard drive in a docking base.

■ Any bootable CD-ROM or DVD-ROM in a docking base.

By default, Phoenix MultiBoot is disabled and the computer selects the startup drive by searching these locations in this sequence:

1. External diskette drive

2. Computer hard drive bay 4. Mobile expansion unit MultiBay

3. Mobile expansion unit diskette drive bay

To enable MultiBoot and change the sequence of the computer drive bay locations that the computer searches during startup:

1. Restart the computer, then press F10 when the blinking cursor appears

upper-right on the screen.

■ To change the language, press F2.

■ For navigation instructions, press F1.

2. Select AdvancedÅBoot Options, then press Enter.

3. Toggle the MultiBoot field to Enable.

4. Toggle the Boot Order fields to the boot sequence you prefer.

5. To save your preferences and exit Boot Options, press F10.

6. To confirm saving your changes close Computer Setup, and restart the

computer, select FileÅSave Changes and Exit, then press F10.

When the computer restarts and searches for a startup drive, it considers only the first drive of each type. For example, in the default boot order, the computer will not start from a bootable diskette in the diskette drive bay of the mobile expansion unit if a non-bootable diskette is in the external diskette drive connected to the computer.

IMPORTANT: Changing the boot order also changes the logical drive designations. For example, if you start up from a hard drive in the mobile expnasion base MultiBay, it becomes drive C and a hard drive in the primary hard drive bay becomes drive D. Starting up from a network card does not affect logical drive designations.

Docking Devices

The mobile expansion unit is available on select models and can be purchased as an upgrade for other models.

In addition to the mobile expansion unit, the computer can also be used with other compatible Compaq docking devices. The computer must be docked in the mobile expansion unit before docking the entire system to a docking device. For more information on the individual docking solutions, contact your local authorized Compaq reseller or provider.

5-11

Chapter 6

Mobile Expansion Unit (available on select models)

Connecting the Computer

To connect the computer to the mobile expansion unit:

1. Close computer display

2. Align the tabs in front of the computer with the computer tabs on the

mobile expansion unit ➊. Lower the computer onto the expansion connector ➋ and snap into place.

NOTE: Firmly press down on the rear of the computer to ensure the computer and the mobile expansion unit are connected.

6-1

6-2 Mobile Expansion Unit (on select models)

3. Slide the display latch ➊ to open the computer ➋.

Disconnecting the Computer

To disconnect the computer from the mobile expansion unit, follow these steps:

1. Close the computer display.

2. On the mobile expansion unit, press the docking release button ➊ to release the expansion unit from the computer ➋.

3. Lift the rear end of the computer to disconnect it from the computer expansion connector

6-3

4. Pull the computer away from the mobile expansion unit tabs

Docking and Undocking to a Compatible Docking Device

Your computer must be attached to the mobile expansion unit before the system can be docked to another docking device. Docking the system to the docking device provides a permanent desktop workstation. Consult the docking device installation and operations guide or your Compaq authorized dealer for more information about docking and undocking.

6-4 Mobile Expansion Unit (on select models)

Turning Equipment On and Off

When the computer and mobile expansion unit are connected, turn the equipment on and off using the power button on the computer.

If the computer and the mobile expansion unit are docked to a docking device, follow the instructions in the docking device guide for turning equipment on and off.

Connecting the AC Adapter

WARNING: To reduce the risk of personal injury, electric

shock, fire, or damage to your equipment:

■ Do not disable the power cord grounding plug. The grounding

plug is an important safety feature.

■ Plug the equipment into a grounded (earthed) electrical outlet

that is easily accessible at all times.

■ Disconnect power from the equipment by unplugging the

power cord from the electrical outlet.

■ Do not place anything on power cords or cables. Arrange

them so that no one can accidentally step on or trip over them. Do not pull on a cord or cable. When unplugging from the electrical outlet, grasp the cord by the plug.

WARNING: To reduce the risk of electric shock, fire, or damage to the equipment, do not attempt to power the computer with a voltage converter kit sold for appliances.

To connect the AC Adapter, do the following:

1. Connect the AC adapter to the power connector on the left side of the mobile expansion unit ➊.

6-5

2. Connect the AC power cord to the adapter

3. Plug the power cord into an electrical outlet

Connecting External Devices

To connect devices to the mobile expansion unit:

1. Turn off power to the computer, expansion unit, and all devices.

2. Connect external devices to the rear connectors on the expansion unit and turn on power to all devices.

NOTE: To complete the device connections, some manufacturers require you to install a software driver. Refer to the documentation included with the device for details.

6-6 Mobile Expansion Unit (on select models)

Operating External Devices

To ensure that devices connected to the expansion base are activated, follow the guidelines below.

■ When adding a device to or removing a device from the expansion unit,

turn off power to the computer, expansion unit, and applicable devices before connecting or disconnecting the computer.

■ When the computer is connected to the mobile expansion unit, be sure all

attached devices are turned on, then turn on power to the computer.

Drive Devices

The mobile expansion unit supports a second hard drive, CD-ROM drive, DVD-ROM drive, LS-120 drive, or extra battery pack in the MultiBay on the front right side of the unit. In addition, it supports a diskette drive in the Diskette Drive Bay on the front left side of the unit.

CAUTION: Electrostatic discharge can damage electronic components. Before touching a MultiBay device or diskette drive, ensure that you are discharged of static electricity by touching a grounded metal object.

IMPORTANT: If you are using Windows 95, Windows 98, or Windows NT 4.0 preinstalled by Compaq, you do not need to turn off the computer before removing a diskette drive, CD-ROM drive, DVD-ROM drive, LS-120 drive, hard drive, or battery pack from the mobile expansion unit. If you installed Windows 95, Windows 98, or Windows NT 4.0 that you purchased separately, you must obtain additional software from Compaq to support removing these drives while the computer is on or in Suspend (Standby). For more information about the software, refer to the Compaq Internet site at http://www.compaq.com.

Drives Support

Bay Device Bay Location Insert/Remove Drive

Hard Drive Computer hard drive bay

Drives Support

or Mobile expansion unit MultiBay

6-7

While Computer Is

Off

On, Suspend, or Off

Diskette Drive External diskette drive

CD-ROM Drive Mobile expansion unit

DVD-ROM Drive Mobile expansion unit

SuperDisk LS-120 Drive Mobile expansion unit

Extra Battery Pack Mobile expansion unit

Removing a MultiBay Device

To remove a device from the MultiBay in the mobile expansion unit:

1. If the MultiBay device is a drive, remove any DVD, CD, or diskette disc from it.

On, Suspend, or Off or Mobile expansion unit diskette drive bay

On, Suspend, or Off MultiBay

6-8 Mobile Expansion Unit (on select models)

2. Slide forward the MultiBay release latch 1 on the right side of the mobile expansion unit.

3. Pull the MultiBay device from the MultiBay

Inserting a MultiBay Device

To insert a device into the MultiBay in the mobile expansion unit, be sure the drive connector is facing in, then slide the MultiBay device into the MultiBay until the connector is seated.

Removing the Diskette Drive from the Diskette Drive Bay

To remove the diskette drive from the Diskette Drive Bay in the mobile expansion unit:

6-9

1. Remove the diskette from the diskette drive.

2. Slide forward the diskette drive release latch 1.

3. Slide the diskette drive from the bay

6-10 Mobile Expansion Unit (on select models)

Inserting the Diskette Drive into the Diskette Drive Bay

To insert the diskette drive into the Diskette Drive Bay in the mobile expansion unit:

1. Remove the drive connector cord from the external diskette drive that came with the computer.

2. With the drive connector facing in, slide the diskette drive into the Diskette Drive Bay until the connector is seated.

6-11

Chapter 7

Using an Internal Modem (available on select models)

Connecting the Modem Cable

The Compaq internal modem must be connected to a standard (analog) telephone line.

IMPORTANT: Immediately disconnect an accidental connection to a digital line, such as an office PBX line.

1. Plug either end of the modem cable included with the computer into the RJ-11 jack on the computer

2. If you are connecting the cable to a telephone jack that is not an RJ-11

jack, plug the country-specific modem adapter, included with the computer, into the telephone jack.

3. Plug the other end of the modem cable into the country-specific modem adapter or into the RJ-11 telephone jack

7-1

7-2 Using an Internal Modem (available on select models)

Selecting Communications Software

You can operate the modem with preinstalled or optional software. To use preinstalled modem software, select StartÅPrograms. Then,

■ In Windows 95 select AccessoriesÅFaxÅCompose New Fax.

■ In Windows 98 or Windows NT 4.0 select RingCentral Fax.

Configuring the Modem

The settings you may be required to enter vary among communications software applications. As you enter these settings, the following information may be helpful.

Recommended Settings

■ Model— ❏ Select StartÅSettingsÅControl PanelÅModem or ❏ Enter the initialization string AT&F1&D2&C1E0V1S0=0.

NOTE: Newer initialization strings may be available from the Compaq Internet site at http://www.compaq.com.

■ COM port settings—Refer to Appendix D.

■ Fax class—Select 1.

■ Parity—Select NONE.

■ Word length—Select 8.

■ Stop bits—Select 1.

■ Hardware flow control—Select RTS/CTS.

■ Speed—Select the highest transmission speed or baud rate. ❏ The maximum connection speed is determined by the speed of the

slowest modem on the connection. The internal modem negotiates the fastest speed possible with the remote modem.

❏ The internal modem supports

Standard analog modem communication protocols (for speeds up to 33.6 Kbps).

ITU-compatible V.90 and 56K protocols (for higher speeds).

❏ The V.90 protocols allow faster downloads only from V.90

K56flex–compliant digital sources. Maximum achievable download transmission rates are currently unknown, may not reach 56Kbps, and will vary with line conditions.

Using Modem Commands and Dial Modifiers

You can configure most communications software without the use of AT commands or dial modifiers.

■ If you prefer to configure the modem using AT commands, select

StartÅProgramsÅAccessoriesÅHyperTerminal.

■ To access an AT command set including dial modifiers and instructions,

go to the Compaq Internet site at http://www.compaq.com/support/portables.

7-3

Setting Modem Preferences

The following preference is in addition to those described in your modem communication software documentation.

In Windows 95 only—To set the computer to turn on when the modem receives a telephone call, select StartÅSettingsÅControl PanelÅPowerÅPower tabÅAdvanced button, then select the Wake Up the Computer When the Phone Rings check box.

Using the Modem

The internal modem supports all operations described in most communications software documentation.

If you are using a fax application, the following supplementary information may be helpful.

7-4 Using an Internal Modem (available on select models)

■ Fax speed—Fax communication software enables the modem to send

and receive faxes at 14,400 bps.

■ Installing and loading fax communication software— ❏ Install no more than one fax application. If more than one fax

application is installed, conflicts may occur because all fax applications use similar files.

❏ When some fax applications are loaded, their fax drivers may

disrupt other modem functions. If you experience problems with the modem after installing your fax application, the drive may need to be unloaded from memory. Refer to the fax application documentation for information about unloading the driver.

■ Sending a Fax— ❏ Opening the fax application loads the application fax driver and

prepares the modem to send the fax.

❏ If you prepare the fax in another application, you may need to select

your fax driver from within the Print Setup menu of that application.

■ Receiving a Fax—For the modem to receive a fax, a fax driver must be

loaded and the fax application must be open.

❏ If you have enabled auto receive within your fax application,

opening the application loads the fax driver and prepares the modem to receive a fax.

❏ If you are using a Windows fax application, you can receive a fax

while using another application by opening, then minimizing, the Windows fax application.

Using the Modem While Traveling Internationally

Using a Country-Specific Modem Adapter

Telephone jacks vary by country. The modem cable included with the computer plugs directly into an RJ-11 telephone jack. To plug the modem cable into a different type of telephone jack, you must use a country-specific modem cable adapter. A cable adapter is provided with the computer. To obtain a different country-specific adapter(s) required for your itinerary, refer to Appendix A to contact a Compaq-authorized dealer, reseller or service provider.

To connect the modem using a country-specific modem adapter:

1. Plug either end of the modem cable included with the computer into the

RJ-11 jack on the computer

2. Plug the country-specific modem adapter into the telephone jack

3. Plug the modem cable into the country-specific modem adapter

7-5

7-6 Using an Internal Modem (available on select models)

Selecting a Country-Specific Modem Configuration

First, determine which type of modem is installed in your computer. To do so, select StartÅSettingsÅControl PanelÅModem. If the label "3Com" is at the end of the modem name, use the instructions for internal modems by 3Com below. If that label is not there, use the instructions for all other internal modems below.

■ 3Com internal modems—select StartÅProgramsÅCompaq internal

modemÅWorldPortÅGeneral tab, then select the country in which you will be using the modem.

■ All other internal modems—select StartÅSettingsÅControl

PanelÅModemÅDialing Properties, then select the country where you will be using the modem.

Travel Connection Checklist

If you experience connection problems while using the modem outside your home country, the following suggestions may help.

■ Check the telephone line type—The modem requires an analog, not a

digital, telephone line. A telephone line described as a data line, fax machine line, modem line, or standard telephone line is probably an analog line.

■ Check for pulse or tone dialing—Dial a few digits on the telephone

and listen for clicks (pulses) or tones. Then make sure your communication software is set to the corresponding dialing mode (pulse or tone).

■ Check the telephone number you are dialing and the response of the

remote modem—Dial the telephone number on the telephone, wait for the remote modem to answer, then hang up.

■ Set the modem to ignore dial tones—If the modem receives a dial tone

it does not recognize, it will not dial and will display a No Dial Tone error message. To set the modem to ignore all dial tones before dialing:

1. Select StartÅSettingsÅControl PanelÅModems.

2. Select your modem, then select PropertiesÅConnections tab, then

clear the Wait for Dial Tone Before Dialing check box.

NOTE: If you have a 3Com modem (see "Selecting a Country-Specific Modem Configuration," above) and continue to receive the No Dial Tone error message after clearing the checkbox, select StartÅ ProgramsÅCompaq ModemÅWorldPort. Select USA, then again clear the Wait for Dial Tone Before Dialing check box.

7-7

Chapter 8

Using PC Cards

A PC Card is a credit card–sized accessory designed to conform to the standard specifications of the Personal Computer Memory Card International Association (PCMCIA). The computer supports both 32-bit CardBus cards and 16-bit PC Cards.

Configuring a PC Card

CAUTION: If you install card and socket services or enablers

provided by a PC Card manufacturer, you may not be able to use other PC Cards. If you are instructed by PC Card documentation to install device drivers

■ Install only the device drivers for your operating system.

■ Do not install card services, socket services, or enablers.

■ In Windows 95 or Windows 98 the operating system configures plug

and play PC Cards.

■ In Windows NT 4.0 with CardWare provided by Compaq you can

configure a PC Card in the CardWare window:

8-1

❏ First, insert the PC Card as instructed later in this chapter. ❏ Then, open the CardWare window by selecting

StartÅProgramsÅCardWare.

❏ For additional instructions, refer to the Help program within

CardWare.

Inserting or Removing a PC Card

■ In Windows 95 or Windows 98— ❏ If you insert a PC Card while the computer is on, the computer

beeps twice when the card is ready for use.

❏ If you remove a PC Card while the computer is on, the computer

beeps twice when the card is removed.

8-2 Using PC Cards

■ In Windows NT 4.0 with CardWare provided by Compaq—

Inserting a PC Card

1. With the connector facing the computer and the label facing up, push the

2. Gently push the card into the slot until the card is seated.

❏ When a PC Card is in the system, the PC Card icon displays on the

taskbar.

❏ If you insert a PC Card while the computer is on, the computer

beeps three times when the card is recognized.

❏ If you remove a PC Card while the computer is on, the computer

beeps three times when the card is removed.

❏ The PC Card icon displays in the taskbar whether or not a PC Card

is in the system.

CAUTION: To prevent damage to the connectors, use minimal pressure as you insert a PC Card into the PC Card slot.

PC Card through the PC Card doors, aligning the card on the two guide rails within the PC Card slot.

3. In Windows NT 4.0 with CardWare provided by Compaq only—

Restart the computer if you are instructed to do so by the PC Card documentation or an on-screen prompt.

■ If you are inserting a LAN, SCSI, or multifunction PC Card, you must

restart the computer.

■ If you are inserting a modem, ATA, flash, or SRAM PC Card, it is

usually not necessary to restart the computer.

Removing a PC Card

■ First, prepare the system for the removal:

❏ In Windows 95 or Windows 98—If the computer is on, stop the

PC Card before you remove it. To stop a PC Card, select the PC Card icon in the taskbar, then select the PC Card you want to stop. A message displays when the PC Card can be safely removed.

8-3

CAUTION: If the computer is on and running Windows 95,

failure to stop a PC Card before removing it may cause loss of data.

❏ In Windows NT 4.0 with CardWare provided by Compaq

only—If the computer is on, you must shut it down before removing some PC Cards. Refer to the PC Card documentation for removal requirements.

Note: You must shut down the computer before removing a LAN, SCSI, or multifunction PC Card. It is usually not necessary to shut down the computer before removing a modem, ATA, flash, or SRAM card.

8-4 Using PC Cards

■ Second, remove the PC Card:

1. Push the PC Card eject button

2. Gently grasp the card and pull it out

Chapter 9

Using Audio Features

Using the Internal Microphone and Stereo Speakers

9-1

■ The microphone

audio input when the display is open or closed.

has a standard sensitivity of -50 dB and supports

9-2 Using Audio Features

■ The speaker

provides audio playback for multimedia applications. When the computer is docked in the mobile expansion unit, these speakers are disabled and system sound plays through the mobile expansion unit’s bass speakers.

Connecting an External Audio Device

CAUTION: To prevent possible damage to an external device,

do not plug a single-sound channel (monaural) connector into the stereo speaker/headphone jack.

Selecting an Audio Connector

To Connect This Device Use This Jack

Stereo speakers, headphones, or headset

Single sound channel microphone

Stereo speaker/headphone jack

Microphone jack

9-3

Connecting a Device to the Microphone Jack

The microphone jack supports a single sound channel (monaural) microphone with a 3.5-mm plug. A powered, single sound channel, electret condenser microphone is recommended.

■ If you use a stereo microphone, only the left channel will be recorded.

9-4 Using Audio Features

■ If you use a dynamic microphone, the recommended sensitivity will not

be achieved.

When an external microphone is connected to the computer, the computer microphone is disabled.

Connecting a Device to the Stereo Speaker/Headphone Jack

WARNING: To reduce the risk of personal injury, turn down the

volume control before putting on headphones.

■ Use only a 3.5-mm stereo plug. For best sound quality, ❏ Headphones should be 32 ohms. ❏ External speakers should be at least 8 ohms.

■ Connecting an external audio device to the stereo speaker/ headphone

jack disables the computer speaker.

Adjusting Volume

Adjusting System Volume

■ Using the Fn+F5 hotkeys— ❏ To raise or lower volume, press Fn+F5, then move the onscreen slide

button or press a keyboard arrow key.

❏ To mute or restore volume, press Fn+F5+M or press Fn+F5, then

select or clear the Mute check box.

9-5

■ Using the Windows Volume Control window— ❏ Double-click the volume icon in the taskbar, then enter your

preferences.

To activate the Windows Volume Control window while it is open but inactive, press the Fn+F5 hotkeys.

NOTE: Volume can also be adjusted within some applications.

Chapter 10

Using the Infrared Port

Communicating with Infrared

■ If the computer is running Windows 98 or a preinstalled Windows 95

operating system, the computer is IrDA-compliant (4Mbps standard) and can communicate with any another infrared-equipped device that is also IrDA-compliant.

■ Infrared communication is supported by Windows 95 and Windows 98.

To operate infrared on computers running Windows NT 4.0, you will need to purchase optional third-party software.

10-1

NOTE: The infrared port supports both low speed connections up to

115 kilobits per second (Kbps) and high speed connections up to 4 megabits per second (Mbps). Infrared performance may vary depending on performance of infrared peripherals, distance between infrared devices, and applications used.

10-2 Using the Infrared Port

Configuring the Infrared Port

As you set up your infrared software, the following information may be helpful.

■ The infrared port default settings are: Port, COM3; address, 3; Interrupt

Request (IRQ), 3.

■ If you use Direct Cable Connection and the utility asks you to choose a

port for the infrared connection, you can select Serial Cable on COM5 or, if the computer is running a preinstalled Windows 95 or Windows 98 operating system, Parallel Cable on LPT3.

Enabling the Infrared Port

In Windows 95 the infrared port must be enabled each time the computer is turned on or restarted. To enable the infrared port, select StartÅSettingsÅControl PanelÅInfrared.

In Windows 98 the infrared port is enabled by default each time the computer starts up.

■ When the infrared port is enabled, the infrared icon appears on

the taskbar and Infrared Monitor search is enabled by default.

■ While the Infrared Monitor search is enabled ❏ You can establish an infrared link. ❏ The system cannot initiate Suspend (Standby). User-initiated

Suspend (Standby) is not affected.

■ When the Infrared Monitor search is disabled ❏ Power is conserved. ❏ You cannot establish an infrared link. ❏ The system can initiate Suspend (Standby).

■ To enable or disable Infrared Monitor search

1. Open the Infrared Monitor dialog box by selecting the Infrared icon

in the taskbarÅOptions tab.

❏ To enable Infrared Monitor search, select the Search For and

Provide Status for Devices in Range check box.

❏ To disable Infrared Monitor search, clear the check box.

2. Select OK to save your preference and close the Options dialog box.

10-3

Compaq M300 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Notice

Contents

About This Guide

Getting Started

Taking a Look at the Computer

Using the Keyboard

Managing Power

Upgrading Your Computer

Mobile Expansion Unit (available on select models)

Using PC Cards

Using Audio Features

Using the Infrared Port