The information in this guide is subject to change without notice.
COMPAQ COMPUTER CORPORATION SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR TECHNICAL
OR EDITORIAL ERRORS OR OMISSIONS CONTAINED HEREIN, NOR FOR
INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES RESULTING FROM THE
FURNISHING, PERFORMANCE, OR USE OF THIS MATERIAL.
This guide contains information protected by copyright. No part of this guide may
be photocopied or reproduced in any form without prior written consent from
Compaq Computer Corporation.
Compaq, Presario Registered U. S. Patent and Trademark Office.
Microsoft, MS-DOS, and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
Windows 98 is a trademark of Microsoft Corporation.
The software described in this guide is furnished under a license agreement or
nondisclosure agreement. The software may be used or copied only in accordance with
the terms of the agreement.
Product names mentioned herein may be trademarks and/or registered trademarks of
their respective companies.
Maintenance and Service Guide
Compaq Presario 1200 Series Portable Computers
First Edition (June 1999)
Compaq Computer Corporation
This Maintenance and Service Guide is a troubleshooting guide that can be used for
reference when servicing the Compaq Presario 1200 Series Portable Computers.
Compaq Computer Corporation reserves the right to make changes to the Compaq Presario 1200
Series Portable Computers without notice.
Symbols
The following words and symbols mark special messages throughout this guide.
WARNING: Text set off in this manner indicates that failure to follow directions in the warning could result in
bodily harm or loss of life.
CAUTION: Text set off in this manner indicates that failure to follow directions could result in damage to
equipment or loss of data.
IMPORTANT:
Text set off in this manner presents clarifying information or specific instructions.
Text set off in this manner presents commentary, sidelights, or interesting points of
NOTE:
information.
Technician Notes
WARNING: Only authorized technicians trained by Compaq should repair this equipment. All troubleshooting
and repair procedures are detailed to allow only subassembly/module level repair. Because of the complexity
of the individual boards and subassemblies, the user should not attempt to make repairs at the component
level or to make modifications to any printed circuit board. Improper repairs can create a safety hazard. Any
indications of component replacement or printed circuit board modifications may void any warranty.
Serial Number
When requesting information or ordering spare parts, the computer serial number should be
provided to Compaq. The serial number is located on the bottom of the computer.
Locating Additional Information
The following documentation is available to support this product:
● Compaq Presario 1200 Series Portable Computer documentation set
Components
Bottom of Unit
Rear Connectors
Power Management
for Windows 98
Index
Compaq
Presario
Portable
Computers...
are a
continuation
of new
generation
multimedia
portable
computers
with
innovative
integrated
designs,
outstanding
audio and
video,
advanced
core
features, and
attractive
styling.
This fullfunction,
AMD-K6
portable
computer
allows full
desktop
functionality.
Illustrated Parts Catalog | Removal & Replacement Procedures|Specifications
Pin Assignments|Battery Pack Operations
Power Management for Windows 98
Power Management Settings
Depending on your patterns of computer use, you can set different levels of
power management. These different power management levels can be
activated based on the amount of time passed since the last system activity.
System activity examples include keyboard or mouse movement, CD or DVD
playback (while under program control that monitors Sleep), and modem use.
You can select different conditions or power schemes through Power
Management.The optional settings are Home/Office Desk, Portable/ Laptop, and Always On. From the default settings, you can change the
following settings:
● the System goes to Sleep (Standby) mode
● the screen times out and goes blank
● the hard drive spins down
Each of these system components goes to sleep after the selected or default
periods of inactivity.
(The setting for hard drive must be less than, or equal to, the setting for
System.)
IMPORTANT:
System Standby to Never.
If you're on a network, it's recommended that you set
There are five categories of power management settings under the Control Panel.
The default settings for each feature are listed in the following tables:
Illustrated Parts Catalog | Removal & Replacement Procedures|Specifications
Pin Assignments|Battery Pack Operations
Power Management for Windows 98
Sleep
You can select Sleep mode instead of turning off the computer when you have finished using it.
This allows the computer to wake up faster than turning it off and saves power over the active
(On) mode. Compaq Presario Notebook computers have two levels of sleep - Hibernation and
Sleep.
Hibernation - pushing the power button once causes your computer to perform a save to disk
followed by a
shut down of the computer into Off mode.
Sleep - is a low-power mode, also referred to as Standby mode. While in Sleep mode, your
computer maintains system information and open files. Unsaved information is lost if you turn off
your system before system wake-up, or if you lose power while using the AC adapter.
CAUTION: While in Sleep mode, your computer maintains system information and open files. Unsaved information is lost if you turn off your system before system
wake-up, or if you lose power while using the AC adapter
Illustrated Parts Catalog | Removal & Replacement Procedures|Specifications
Pin Assignments|Battery Pack Operations
Power Management for Windows 98
Hibernation Mode
Hibernation helps conserve battery life and protect your data. Hibernation can
be a routine power saving event, or can be the result of a low battery
condition. As it enters Hibernation, your computer displays a progress screen,
as it automatically saves the machine state before it shuts down and turns
itself off. Your computer automatically goes into Hibernation when the
battery has little power left, or when the system (operating on battery power)
has been in Sleep mode for more than an hour. You can also manually initiate
Hibernation by pressing the power button once while the system is active. To
restore the computer's previous state, simply press the power button once
again. While waking up, the computer displays a progress screen.
The following table shows the conditions and indicators for getting in and out
of the various power management modes - Sleep, Hibernation, and Off.
ModeTo InitiateTo EndIndicators
Sleep
Manual keys
combination
Press any keyFlashing green
Power LED
- Fn+F4
Time Out Default 15 minutes if on Battery
power (system will not
time out to sleep)
HibernateManual - Press Power
Button once
Press Power
Button once
No Power
LED, blank
screen
Time Out Default If low battery or after 1
hour of sleep (system will
not Hibernate if on AC
power)
OffPerform normal Windows
shutdown via the start
button, or press and hold
down the power button
for 4 seconds
Illustrated Parts Catalog | Removal & Replacement Procedures|Specifications
Pin Assignments|Battery Pack Operations
Power Management for Windows 98
Battery Operating Time
Battery operating time is affected by variables, such as the following:
● Power conservation
settings
● Hardware
configuration
● Software
applications
For more information on increasing battery pack operating time,
conditioning the battery pack, and disposing of a used battery pack,
refer to Battery Pack Operating Time.
Illustrated Parts Catalog | Removal & Replacement Procedures|Specifications
Pin Assignments|Battery Pack Operations
Power Management for Windows 98
Rebooting After a Lockup
Occasionally you may encounter a frozen keyboard or a locked screen. To
reboot your computer (as if from a cold start), press and hold down the Power
Button for at least four seconds, which will cause a manual shutdown. Then,
restart the computer with a single press of the Power Button. If it still does
not recover, press the
Power Button and hold it for four seconds to power off the computer. Then,
remove the battery or unplug the AC power for at least 30 seconds. Reinsert
the battery or reconnect AC power and press the Power Button once to
reboot.
Illustrated Parts Catalog | Removal & Replacement Procedures|Specifications
Pin Assignments|Battery Pack Operations
Power Management for Windows 98
Servicing Your Computer - Full Off Mode
If you need to install or replace components in your system, you must turn
the computer off completely.
Place the computer into Off mode, unplug it from the outlet, and remove the
battery
(see battery section for instruction on removing battery).
This section covers troubleshooting information
for the Compaq Presario 1200 Series Portable
Computers. The basic steps in troubleshooting
include:
1. Follow the
Steps.
2. Run the Power-On Self-Test
(POST).
3. If you are unable to run
Index
Preliminary
Contacting Compaq
Support
POST or if POST displays an
error message, follow the
recommended actions
described in the diagnostic
tables.
When following the recommended
actions in the Sections on POST
and
Diagnostic Error Codes,
perform them in the order listed.
Rerun POST after each
recommended action until the
problem is solved and no error
message occurs. Once the
problem is solved, do not
complete the remaining
recommended actions.
If the problem is
intermittent, check the
NOTE:
computer several times to
verify that the problem is
solved.
● Turn off the computer; then, turn on the computer.
● If POST does not detect any errors, the computer will not beep. This indicates successful
completion of POST test. POST has run successfully and boots from the hard drive (or from a
bootable diskette if one is installed in the diskette drive).
●If POST detects errors, the errors are indicated by screen and/or audible messages.
Refer to "Power-On Self-Test (POST) Codes" in the tables for a list of POST codes and their relevant
descriptions.
If the system is not functioning well enough to run POST, or if the display is
NOTE:
not functioning well enough to show POST error messages, refer to the
Troubleshooting tables.
Power-On Self-Test Messages
102-System Board Failure
Probable CauseRecommended Action
DMA, timers, etc.Replace the system board.
162-System Options Not Set
Probable CauseRecommended Action
Configuration incorrectRun Computer Setup.
CMOS reflects that an invalid
Run Computer Setup.
configuration has been set.
RAM failure1. Replace the memory modules.
2. Replace the system board.
Memory test data error1. Replace the memory modules.
2. Replace the system board.
XX000YZZ RAM failureReplace the system board.
XX000YZZ 201-Memory Error
Probable CauseRecommended Action
RAM failure1. Replace the memory modules.
2. Replace the system board.
Memory test data error1. Replace the memory modules.
2. Replace the system board.
XXOOOYZZ Ram failureReplace the system board.
301-Keyboard Error
Probable CauseRecommended Action
Keyboard failure1. Ensure that keys are not depressed
during POST.
2. Reconnect the keyboard with the
computer off.
3. Replace the keyboard.
304-Keyboard or System Unit Error
Probable CauseRecommended Action
Keyboard or system board error1. Replace the keyboard.
2. Replace the TouchPad or mouse.
3. Replace the system board.
601-Diskette Controller Error
Probable CauseRecommended Action
Mismatch in drive type or failure in the
diskette controller
Run Computer Checkup (TEST).
1.
2. Check and/or replace cables.
3. Replace the system board.
605-Diskette Drive Error
Probable CauseRecommended Action
Mismatch in drive typeRun Computer Setup.
1780-Primary Hard Drive 0 Failure
Probable CauseRecommended Action
Disk 0 failed to respond1.
Hard drive format error1. Run Computer Checkup (TEST).
Run Computer Checkup (TEST).
2. Replace the hard drive.
2. Replace the hard drive.
1782-Hard Drive Controller
Probable CauseRecommended Action
Hard drive controller failure1. Run Computer Setup.
Compaq Diagnostics is installed on the hard drive of the computer. Run the
Diagnostics utilities when you want to view or test system information and if
you have installed or connected devices. If you run Compaq Diagnostics from
a diskette, ensure that it is version 10.11 or later.
The Diagnostics menu includes the following utilities:
■ Perform Computer Checkup (TEST)
■ View System Information (INSPECT)
■ Prepare Computer for a Compaq Service Call (RemotePaq)
If you have a problem you cannot solve, run the Diagnostics utilities before
you call for support. Run Computer Checkup and save the device list to a file
and to print, or save the error log. Run the View System Information
(INSPECT) utility and print or save that information. Have the files or the
printed information available when you call for support.
Perform Computer Checkup (TEST)
Computer Checkup (TEST) determines whether the various computer
components and devices are recognized by the system and are functioning
properly. You can display, print, or save the information generated by
Computer Checkup.
Follow these steps to run Computer Checkup:
1. Plug the computer into an external power source. (A low battery condition
could interrupt the program.)
2. Turn on the external devices that you want to test. Connect the printer if
you want to print a log of error messages.
3. Insert the Compaq Diagnostics diskette in drive A.
4. Turn on or restart the computer. The computer starts from drive A, and the
Diagnostics Welcome screen appears.
5. Press Enter to continue. The Diagnostics menu appears.
6. Select Computer Checkup from the Diagnostics menu. A Test Option
menu appears.
7. Select View the Device List from the Test Option menu. A list of the
installed Compaq devices appears.
8. If the list of installed devices is correct, select OK. The Test Option menu
appears.
If the list is incorrect, ensure that any new devices are installed
NOTE:
properly.
9. Select one of the following from the Test Option menu:
■Quick Check Diagnostics. Runs a quick, general test on each device with
a minimal number of prompts. If errors occur, they display when the
testing is complete. You cannot print or save the error messages.
■Automatic Diagnostics. Runs unattended, maximum testing of each
device with minimal prompts. You can choose how many times to run
the tests, to stop on errors, or to print or save a log of errors.
■Prompted Diagnostics. Allows maximum control over testing the devices.
You can choose attended or unattended testing, decide to stop on
errors, or choose to print or save a log of errors.
10. Follow the instructions on the screen as the devices are tested. When
testing is complete, the Test Option menu appears.
11. Exit the Test Option menu.
12. Exit the Diagnostics menu.
Return to
top of this page
View System Information (INSPECT)
The View System Information (INSPECT) utility provides information about
the computer and installed or connected devices. You can display, print, or
save the information.
Follow these steps to run View System Information (INSPECT) from the
Compaq Diagnostics diskette:
1. Turn on the external devices that you want to test. Connect the printer if
you want to print the information.
2. Insert the Compaq Diagnostics diskette in drive A.
3. Turn on or restart the computer. The computer starts from drive A, and the
Diagnostics Welcome screen appears.
4. Press Enter to continue. The Diagnostics menu appears.
5. Select View System Information (INSPECT) from the Diagnostics
menu.
6. Select the item you want to view from the following list:
SystemMemory
ROMAudio
KeyboardOperating system
System portsSystem files
System storageWindows files
Graphics
7. Follow the instructions on the screen to cycle through the screens, to
return to the list and choose another item, or to print the information.
Diagnostic error codes occur if the system recognizes a problem while running the Compaq
Diagnostic program. These error codes help identify possibly defective subassemblies.
The following tables list error codes, a description of the error condition, and the action required
to resolve the error condition.
IMPORTANT:
For the removal and replacement of a particular subassembly, see
Procedures.
Retest the system after completing each step. If the problem has been resolved,
do not proceed with the remaining steps.
Removal and Replacement
Select error codes by number or type:
101 through 114
200 through 215Processor Test
300 through 304Memory Test
401 through 403Keyboard Test
600 through 699Parallel Printer Test
1101Diskette Drive Test
1701 through 1736Serial Test
501 through 516Hard Drive Test
2402 through 2456Video Test
2458 through 2480Audio Test
3206Touch Pad Pointing Device Test
8601 through 8602CD Test
3301 through 6623
Processor Test Error Codes
Error
CodeDescriptionRecommended Action
101-xx CPU test failedReplace the processor and retest.
102-xx Coprocessor or Weitek Error1. Run the Configuration and Diagnostics
Utilities.
2. Replace the processor board and retest.
103-xx DMA page registers test failedReplace the system board and retest.
104-xx Interrupt controller master test failed
105-xx Port 61 error
106-xx Keyboard controller self-test failed
107-xx CMOS RAM test failed
108-xx CMOS interrupt test failed
109-xx CMOS clock test failed
110-xx Programmable timer load data test failed
113-xx Protected mode test failed
114-01 Speaker test failed1. Check system configuration.
2. Verify cable connections to speaker.
3. Replace the system board and retest.
Memory Test Error Codes
200-xx Memory machine ID test failed1. Flash the system ROM and retest.
202-xx Memory system ROM checksum failed
203-xx Write/Read test failed1. Remove the memory module and retest.
204-xx Address test failed
211-xx Random pattern test failed
214-xx Noise test failed
2. Replace the system board and retest.
2. Install a new memory module and
retest.
215-xx Random address test failed
Return to the top
Keyboard Test Error Codes
300-xx Failed ID Test1. Check the keyboard connection. If
disconnected, turn off the computer and
301-xx Failed Selftest/Interface Test
302-xx Failed Individual Key Test
304-xx Failed Keyboard Repeat Test
Parallel Printer Test Error Codes
401-xx Printer failed or not connected1. Connect the printer.
connect the keyboard.
2. Replace the keyboard and retest.
3. Replace the system board and retest.
2. Check power to the printer.
402-xx Failed Port Test
403-xx Printer pattern test failed
600-xx
601-xx
602-xx
603-xx
Diskette ID drive types test
failed
Diskette format failed
Diskette read test failed
Diskette write, read, compare test failed
3. Install the loop-back connector and
retest.
4. Check port and IRQ configuration.
5. Replace the system board and retest.
Return to the top.
Diskette Drive Test
1. Replace the diskette media and retest.
2. Check and/or replace the diskette power
and signal cables and retest.
3. Replace the diskette drive and retest.
604-xx
605-xx
606-xx
609-xx
610-xx
697-xx
698-xx
699-xx
Diskette random read test failed
Diskette ID media failed
Diskette speed test failed
Diskette reset controller test failed
Diskette change line test failed
Diskette type error
Diskette drive speed not within limits
Diskette drive/media ID error1. Replace media.
4. Replace the system board and retest.
2. Run the Configuration and Diagnostics
Utilities.
Return to the top.
Serial Test Error Codes
1101-
xx
1701-xxHard drive format test failed1. Run the Configuration and Diagnostics
1702-xxHard drive read test failed
1703-xxHard drive write/read/compare test failed
1704-xxHard drive random seek test failed
1705-xxHard drive controller test failed
1706-xxHard drive ready test failed
1707-xxHard drive recalibration test failed
Serial port test failed1. Check port configuration.
2. Replace the system board and retest.
Hard Drive Test Error Codes
Utilities and verify drive type.
2. Verify that all secondary drives have
secondary drive capability.
3. Replace the hard drive and retest.
4. Replace the system board and retest.
1708-xxHard drive format bad track test failed
1709-xxHard drive reset controller test failed
1710-xxHard drive park head test failed
1715-xxHard drive head select test failed
1716-xxHard drive conditional format test failed
1717-xxHard drive ECC* test failed
1719-xxHard drive power mode test failed
1724-xxNetwork preparation test failed
1736-xxDrive monitoring test failed
* ECC = Error Correction Code
Return to the top.
Video Test Error Codes
501-xx Video controller test failedThe following apply to error codes 501-xx
502-xx Video memory test failed
503-xx Video attribute test failed
504-xx Video character set test failed
505-xx
506-xx
507-xx Video 40 × 25 mode test failed
508-xx
Video 80 × 25 mode 9 × 14 character cell
test failed
Video 80 × 25 mode 8 × 8 character cell
test failed
Video 320 × 200 mode color set 0 test
failed
through 516-xx:
1. Disconnect external monitor and test
with internal LCD display.
2. Replace the display assembly and retest.
3. Replace the system board and retest.
509-xx
510-xx Video 640 × 200 mode test failed
511-xx Video screen memory page test failed
512-xx Video gray scale test failed
514-xx Video white screen test failed
516-xx Video noise pattern test failed
2402-xxVideo memory test failedThe following steps apply to error codes
2403-xxVideo attribute test failed
2404-xxVideo character set test failed
2405-xxVideo 80 × 25 mode 9 × 14 character cell
2406-xxVideo 80 × 25 mode 8 × 8 character cell
Video 320 × 200 mode color set 1 test
failed
2402-xx through 2456-xx:
1. Run the Configuration and Diagnostics
Utilities.
2. Replace the display assembly and retest.
test failed
3. Replace the system board and retest.
test failed
2408-xxVideo 320 × 200 mode color set 0 test
failed
2409-xxVideo 320 × 200 mode color set 1 test
failed
2410-xxVideo 640 × 200 mode test failed
2411-xxVideo screen memory page test failed
2412-xxVideo gray scale test failed
2414-xxVideo white screen test failed
2416-xxVideo noise pattern test failed
2418-xxECG/VGC memory test failed
2419-xxECG/VGC ROM checksum test failed1. Run the Configuration and Diagnostics
Utilities.
2421-xxECG/VGC 640 × 200 graphics mode test
failed
2422-xxECG/VGC 640 × 350 16 color set test
failed
2423-xxECG/VGC 640 × 350 64 color set test
failed
2424-xxECG/VGC monochrome text mode test
failed
2425-xxECG/VGC monochrome graphics mode test
failed
2431-xx640 × 480 graphics test failure
2432-xx320 × 200 graphics (256 color mode) test
failure
2448-xxAdvanced VGA Controller test failed
2451-xx132-column Advanced VGA test failed
2. Disconnect external monitor and test
with internal LCD display.
3. Replace the display assembly and retest.
4. Replace the system board and retest.
2456-xxAdvanced VGA 256 Color
test failed
2458-xxAdvanced VGA BitBLT testThe following step applies to error codes
2458-xx through 2480-xx:
2468-xxAdvanced VGA DAC test
Replace the system board and retest.
2477-xxAdvanced VGA data path test
2478-xxAdvanced VGA BitBLT test
2480-xxAdvanced VGA LineDraw test
Return to the top.
Audio Test Error Codes
3206-xxAudio System Internal ErrorReplace the system board and retest.
TouchPad/Pointing Device Interface Test Error Codes
8601-xxMouse test failed1. Replace the TouchPad and retest.
8602-xxInterface test failed
CD Drive Test Error Codes
3301-xxCD drive read test failed1. Replace the CD and retest.
This section provides information about how to identify and correct some common hardware, memory, and software
problems. It also explains several types of common messages that may be displayed on the screen. The following pages
contain troubleshooting information on:
AudioMemory
Battery/Battery gaugePC Card
CD drivePower
Diskette/Diskette drivePrinter
DisplayTouch Pad
Hard driveKeyboard/Numeric keypad
Hardware Installation
Since symptoms can be similar, carefully match the symptoms of the computer malfunction against the problem description
in the Troubleshooting tables to avoid a misdiagnosis.
WARNING: To avoid a potential shock hazard during troubleshooting procedures, disconnect all power
sources before removing the keyboard cover or the display bezel.
Before Replacing Parts
Verify that cables are connected properly to the suspected defective parts.
■ Run Computer Setup after connecting external devices.
■ Verify that all required device drivers are installed.
■ Verify that all required changes have been made to the CONFIG.SYS file.
■ Verify that all required changes have been made to the AUTOEXEC.BAT file.
■ Verify that all printer drivers have been installed for each application.
Some minor problems and possible solutions are outlined in the following tables. If the problem
appears related to a software application, check the documentation provided with the software.
The following problems and possible solutions are addressed:
● Audio Problems
● Battery Pack and Battery Gauge Problems
● CD Drive Problems
● Diskette and Diskette Drive Problems
● Display Problems
● Hard Drive Problems
● Hardware Installation Problems
● Keyboard/Numeric Keypad Problems
● Memory Problems
Solving Audio Problems
Some common audio problems and solutions are listed in the following table.
Solving Audio Problems
ProblemProbable CauseSolution(s)
Computer does not beep after the Power-On
Self-Test (POST).
This is typical; it indicates successful
completion of the Power-On Self-Test
(POST).
No action is required.
Solving Battery Pack and Battery Gauge Problems
Some common causes and solutions for battery pack problems are listed in the following table.
The "Solving Power Problems" section in this chapter may also be applicable.
Solving Battery Pack and Battery Gauge Problems
ProblemProbable CauseSolution(s)
Computer won't turn on when battery
pack is inserted and power cord is
unplugged.
Computer is beeping and battery LED
icon is blinking.
Battery pack is discharged.Connect the computer to an external
power source and charge the battery
pack.
Replace the battery pack with a fully
charged battery pack.
Check the battery connectors on the
system board to verify that they are
evenly spaced and are not bent or
broken.
Battery charge is low.Immediately save any open file(s).
Then do any one of the following:
●Connect the computer to an
external power source to charge
the battery pack.
●Turn off the computer or initiate
Hibernation until you can find
another power source or charge
the battery pack.
Computer battery LED icon (front on
the unit) blinks to indicate low battery
condition, but computer does not beep.
Battery LED icon doesn't light and
battery pack won't fast charge.
You have to set the date and time every
time you turn on the computer.
Battery charge does not last as long as
expected.
Volume is turned down too low.Adjust the volume.
Battery pack is already charged.No action is necessary.
Battery pack was exposed to
temperature extremes.
Battery pack is at end of its life.Replace battery pack.
RTC battery is dead.Replace the RTC battery.
Battery is being exposed to high
temperatures or extremely cold
temperatures.
Battery has partially self-discharged.Recharge the battery. Discharge the
Allow time for the battery pack to
return to room temperature.
Keep the battery pack within the
recommended operating temperature
range 50° F to 104° F (10° C to 40° C)
or recommended storage range -4° F to
86° F
(-20° C to 30° C ). Recharge the
battery pack.
battery completely and then recharge
it.
Battery pack is warm to the touch after
charging.
Battery pack operating time is far less
than the documented average operating
time.
Power management is disabled.Set a power management level in
Computer Setup.
An external device or PC Card is
draining the battery.
Normal warming has occurred due to
charging.
Power management is turned off or
disabled.
An external device or PC Card is
draining the battery.
Battery pack has partially selfdischarged.
Turn off or disconnect external devices
when not using them.
No action is required.
Enable power management in Computer
Setup and in Windows Power
Properties.
Turn off or disconnect external devices
when not using them.
Condition the battery pack by fully
charging, fully discharging, then fully
recharging it.
To maintain the charge, leave battery
packs in the computer when it is
connected to external power.
If the computer is disconnected from
external power for more than two
weeks, remove battery packs from the
computer to reduce the discharge rate.
Battery pack is being exposed to high
temperatures or extremely cold
temperatures.
Keep the battery pack within the
recommended temperature ranges.
Operating: 50° F to 104° F
(10° C to 40° C)
Storage: -4° F to 86° F
(-20° C to 30° C )
Recharge the battery pack.
Solving CD Drive Problems
Some common causes and solutions for CD drive problems are listed in the following table.
Solving CD Drive Problems
ProblemProbable CauseSolution(s)
CD drive cannot read a compact disc.Compact disc is upside down or is
improperly inserted in the CD drive.
CD is CD Plus or Pregap/Track 0 type.Cannot read these type CDs in 24x.
Open the CD loading tray, lay the
compact disc in it (label side up), then
close the tray.
Remove the CD.
Solving Diskette and Diskette Drive Problems
Some common causes and solutions for diskette and diskette drive problems are listed in the
following table.
Solving Diskette and Diskette Drive Problems
ProblemProbable CauseSolution(s)
Diskette drive cannot write to a
diskette.
Diskette is write-protected.Disable the diskette's write-
protect feature or use a
diskette that is not writeprotected.
Computer is writing to
the wrong drive.
Not enough space is left
Check the drive letter in the
path statement.
Use another diskette.
on the diskette.
Drive error has occurred.Run Computer Checkup from
the Compaq Diagnostics
diskette.
Diskette is not formatted.Format the diskette. At
the system prompt, enter
FORMAT A:
Diskette drive cannot read a
diskette.
The wrong type of diskette is
being used.
Use the type of diskette
required by the drive.
Diskette has a bad sector.Copy files to hard drive or
another diskette. Reformat bad
floppy.
Drive error has occurred.Run Computer Checkup from
the Compaq Diagnostics
diskette.
Diskette is not formatted.Format the diskette. At the
system prompt, enter
FORMAT A:
Cannot boot from diskette.Bootable diskette is not in
drive A.
Put the bootable diskette in
drive A.
Diskette Boot has incorrect
setting in Computer Setup.
Run Computer Setup and set
diskette as first to boot.
Solving Display Problems
This section lists some common causes and solutions for computer display and external monitor
problems.
You can perform a monitor self-test on an external VGA color or monochrome monitor by
disconnecting the monitor from the computer. To do so, complete the following steps:
1. Turn off the monitor.
2. Turn off the computer.
3. Disconnect the monitor signal cable from the computer.
4. Turn on the monitor and allow it to warm up for one minute.
The display should be white. A narrow black border may also appear on the left and right sides of
the display. Either of these displays indicates that the monitor is working properly.
Solving Display Problems
ProblemProbable CauseSolution(s)
Screen is dim.Control for brightness or
contrast (if applicable) is not
set properly.
Adjust the Brightness of the
display by using Fn + F7 or
Fn + F8.
Adjust the Contrast of the
display by using Fn + F5 or
Fn + F6.
Computer screen is in direct
light.
Screen is blank.Screen save was initiated by
Power Management due to
lack of user activity.
Display has overheated.If computer is in direct
Display is blank and the Power icon
System is in Suspend mode.Press any key or touch the
is flashing, or the Suspend icon is
present.
Internal display is blank and the
screen on an external monitor
displays information.
Internal display flashes or has
Display function was
switched to the external
monitor.
Using 1024 × 768 or higher
Tilt display or move
computer.
Press any key or touch the
Touch Pad.
sunlight, move it and allow it
to cool off.
Touch Pad.
Use Fn + F3 to switch
between LCD or CRT.
Restart the computer.
garbled characters when computer is
connected to external monitor.
The light tube-s on the edge of the display
panel do not light up at all and Power-On SelfTest (POST) completes when the unit is
powered up.**
The light tubes on the edge of the display
panel do not light up at all and Power-On SelfTest (POST) does not complete when the unit
is powered up.**
resolution on external
monitor and have toggled
back to internal display,
which supports up to 800 ×
600.
Improper backlight or display cable
connections
Defective inverter board.Replace the display assembly.
Defective display cable.Replace the display assembly.
Defective display panel.Replace the display assembly.
Defective system board.Replace the system board.
Defective system board.Replace the system board.
Replace the display assembly.
Backlight (brightness) cannot be adjusted with
Fn + F7 or Fn + F8.
Contrast cannot be adjusted with
Fn + F5 or Fn + F6.
Improper display cable connections. 1. Reseat the display cable to the
system board.
2. Replace the display assembly.
Defective inverter board.Replace the display assembly.
Defective display cable.Replace the display assembly.
Defective system board.Replace the system board.
System may have a TFT display
(which is always at maximum
contrast)
Improper display-cable connections. 1. Reseat the display cable to the
Defective inverter board.Replace the display assembly.
Defective display cable.Replace the display assembly.
No adjustment is possible.
system board.
2. Replace the display assembly.
** This problem indicates that the backlight or its power circuitry has failed. Since you cannot observe the POST result on
the display panel when the backlight is not functioning, connect the unit to an external monitor before powering the unit
up. If an external monitor is not available, verify that POST completes by opening and closing the display, listening for the
single or double beep, and watching for the LEDs to turn on at the front of the computer.
Defective system board.Replace the system board.
ProblemProbable CauseSolution(s)
This display panel has a continuous pattern
across it (e.g., a "jailbars" pattern), has a
single color on it, or has garbled graphics
across the entire panel. This failure is for
patterns across the entire panel
(not just on one section).
Improper display cable
connections
Reseat the display cable to the following
until the problem is solved:
1. System board
2. Display assembly
Ghost bars extending from graphics on the
display.
Defective display cable.Replace the display assembly.
Defective inverter board.Replace the display assembly.
Defective system board.Replace the system board.
Common characteristic of STN
displays.
1. Change the background colors.
2. Adjust the Contrast of the display by
using Fn + F5 or Fn + F6.
A single line, a small group of lines, or a block
appears on the display panel. This failure
occurs in only a section of the display panel.
Defective display panel.Replace the display assembly.
To perform a "self-test" on an external VGA color or monochrome monitor, complete the following steps: The
NOTE:
screen should be white. A narrow black border may also appear on the left and right sides of the display. Either of
these displays indicates that the monitor is working properly.
Solving Hard Drive Problems
Some common causes and solutions for hard drive problems are listed in the following table.
CAUTION:To prevent loss of information, always maintain an up-to-date backup of your hard drive at all
times, in case of errors or failures.
Solving Hard Drive Problems
ProblemProbable CauseSolution(s)
Reading hard drive takes an unusually
long time after restarting the computer.
Hard drive error occurs.Hard drive has bad sectors or has
Hard drive does not work.Hard drive is not seated properly.Turn off and unplug the computer,
System entered Hibernation due to
low battery condition and is now
exiting from it.
failed.
Give the system time to restore the
previously saved data to its exact state
before Hibernation.
Computer Checkup.
Run
remove the battery pack, and remove
and then reinstall the hard drive.
Solving Hardware Installation Problems
Some common causes and solutions for hardware installation problems are listed in the following
table.
Solving Hardware Installation Problems
ProblemProbable CauseSolutions(s)
A new device is not recognized as
part of the computer system.
Power switch of new external
Cable(s) of new external
device are loose, or
power cables are unplugged.
device is not turned on.
Ensure that all cables are
properly and securely
connected.
Turn off the computer, turn on
the external device, then turn
on the computer to integrate
the device with the computer
system.
Device is not seated properly.Turn off the computer and
reinsert the device.
Solving Keyboard/Numeric Keypad Problems
Some common causes and solutions for keyboard/numeric keypad problems are listed in the
following table.
Solving Keyboard/Numeric Keypad Problems
ProblemProbable CauseSolution(s)
Embedded numeric keypad on
computer keyboard is disabled.
Num Lock function is not
enabled.
Press the Shift+NumLk keys
to enable the Num Lock
function and embedded
numeric keypad. The Num
Lock icon on the status panel
turns on.
Embedded numeric keypad is
disabled and Num Lock function is
on.
External numeric keypad is
connected to the computer.
Disconnect the external
numeric keypad from the
computer.
Solving Memory Problems
Some common causes and solutions for memory problems are listed in the following table.
Solving Memory Problems
ProblemProbable CauseSolution(s)
Memory count during Power-On SelfTest (POST) is incorrect.
Optional memory expansion
card is installed incorrectly,
is incompatible with
Ensure that the optional
memory expansion card is
installed correctly.
"Out of Memory" message is
displayed on the screen or
insufficient memory error occurs
during operation.
Solving Minor Problems (continued)
the computer, or is defective.
System ran out of
memory for the application.
Too many TSR (terminateand stay-resident)
applications are running.
Check the application
documentation for memory
requirements.
Install additional memory.
Remove from memory any
TSR applications that you do
not need.
Illustrated Parts Catalog | Removal & Replacement Procedures|Specifications
Pin Assignments|Battery Pack Operations
Solving PC Card Problems
Some common causes and solutions for PC Card problems are listed in the following table.
Solving PC Card Problems
ProblemProbable CauseSolution(s)
When turned on, the
computer does not beep
when a PC Card is inserted.
Card is not inserted properly.
PC Card beeps are disabled.
Speaker is turned off or
volume is turned down.
PC Card drivers are not
installed.
Ensure that the card is
inserted in the correct
orientation.
Double-click the PC Card icon
in the Control Panel; click the
Global Settings tab; then,
enable PC Card sound effects.
Press volume buttons to
turn the speaker on; then,
increase the volume.
Double click the Add New Hardware icon in the Control
Panel for installation
instructions.
PC Card modem, fax, or
network card does not work.
Card or card driver is not
supported.
Card is not fully inserted into
the slot or is not inserted
properly.
Telephone cord is not plugged
in all the way.
Necessary drivers are not
If PC Card or drivers are not
compatible with Windows,
install drivers and use the PC
Card in MS-DOS mode.
Contact your Compaqauthorized service provider
for a list of PC Cards tested
successfully in Compaq PC
Card platforms.
Ensure that the card is
inserted in the correct
orientation.
Check and secure telephone
connection.
Install drivers.
PC Card modem or fax card
does not work.
Modem network PC Card
does not work.
Memory or storage card does
installed (turned on).
You are trying to access the
card using the wrong COM
See
COM port.
Specifications to verify
port.
The card conflicts with a
serial device.
See
Specifications to verify
address.
The card is not supported.Use supported cards only.
Network driver is not
Install driver.
installed or is not set up
properly.
Telephone cord is not
Verify telephone connection.
properly connected.
SRAM and flash
Install driver.
not work.
memory cards require that
the memory card driver be
loaded (turned on).
Flash memory cards require
the that the Microsoft
FlashFile System be loaded.
Hard drives on flash
mass storage cards require
that the
PC Card ATA driver
be loaded.
You are trying to access the
hard drive card using the
wrong drive letter.
Double-click My Computer
to verify the drive letter
assigned to the card.
The card is not supported.Contact your Compaq
authorized service provider
for a list of PC Cards tested
successfully in Compaq PC
Card platforms.
Solving Power Problems
Also see "Solving Battery and Battery Gauge Problems" in this section.
Solving Power Problems
ProblemProbable CauseSolution(s)
Computer won't turn on and
Computer is not connected to
Insert battery or connect an
battery pack is not inserted.
Computer turned off while it
was left unattended and the
power icon is off.
a power source.
Power cords to the external
power source are unplugged.
external power source.
Ensure that power cords
connecting the computer and
the external power source are
plugged in properly.
Power adapter is defective.Replace AC Adapter and
restart.
System board is defective.Replace the system board.
System initiated Hibernation
due to a critical low-battery
condition.
Replace the battery pack with
a fully charged battery pack or
connect the computer to an
external power source. Then
turn on the computer.
System initiated Hibernation
Turn on the computer.
after a preset timeout.
Solving Printer Problems
If you experience problems printing, run a printer self-test. Refer to the documentation provided with your printer for
instructions. If the self-test fails, it is a printer-specific problem. Also refer to the printing section of your application
documentation.
Solving Printer Problems
ProblemProbable CauseSolution(s)
Printer will not turn on.The signal cable may not be
connected properly, or the
printer is unplugged.
Ensure that the signal cable is
properly connected and that the
power cord is connected to the
electrical outlet.
Printer will not print.Printer is not turned on or is off
line.
The device drivers for your
application are not installed.
Printer that is set up for a
network is not connected to the
network.
Printer cable is too long,
unshielded, or defective.
Paper tray is empty.Fill the paper tray with paper
Turn the printer on and set it to
on line.
Refer to the printer
documentation to install the
correct printer driver.
Connect the printer to the
network.
Replace the cable.
and set the printer to online.
Printer prints garbled
information.
Correct printer drivers are not
installed.
Refer to the printer
documentation to install the
correct printer driver.
Cable is not connected properly. Ensure that the printer signal
cable is properly connected to
the computer.
Cable is defective.Replace the printer cable and
retest.
Solving Touch Pad/Pointing Device Problems
Some common causes and solutions for Touch Pad/pointing device problems are listed in the
following table.
Solving Touch Pad/Pointing Device Problems
ProblemCauseSolution(s)
Touch Pad or mouse does not
work.
Incorrect or no device driver is
installed.
Install the device driver and add
to the AUTOEXEC.BAT file or
CONFIG.SYS file.
External mouse does not work.Mouse is not securely
The device driver is not
installed in Windows.
connected or is connected to an
incorrect external connector.
Install the Touch Pad/mouse
driver in Windows.
Ensure that the mouse is
securely connected to the
appropriate external connector.
Touch Pad or mouse does not
work even though the device is
enabled in Windows.
Mouse is not enabled.Enter MOUSE at the system
prompt to activate the mouse
device driver.
Add a line in the
AUTOEXEC.BAT file to
automatically activate the
mouse device driver each time
computer is turned on or
restarted.
Cable not properly seated in
Reseat cable.
Touch Pad board.
Defective Touch Pad board.Replace Touch Pad board.
Defective system board.Replace system board.
Device driver is not correctly
installed in Windows.
Install the appropriate device
driver in Windows.
Cursor skips or moves
abnormally when using the
Touch Pad.
The Touch Pad needs to be
cleaned.
Clean the Touch Pad with a
cloth dampened with alcohol or
an ammonia-based glass
cleaner. Wipe up liquid with a
dry cloth.