COMPAQ and the Compaq logo Registered in U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
Microsoft and Windows are trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
All other product names mentioned herein may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective
companies.
Compaq shall not be liable for technical or editorial errors or omissions contained herein. The
information in this document is subject to change without notice.
The information in this publication is subject to change without notice and is provided “AS IS” WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND. THE ENTIRE RISK ARISING OUT OF THE USE OF THIS
INFORMATION REMAINS WITH RECIPIENT. IN NO EVENT SHALL COMPAQ BE LIABLE FOR
ANY DIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, PUNITIVE OR OTHER DAMAGES
WHATSOEVER (INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION, DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF BUSINESS
PROFITS, BUSINESS INTERRUPTION OR LOSS OF BUSINESS INFORMATION), EVEN IF
COMPAQ HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. THE FOREGOING
SHALL APPLY REGARDLESS OF THE NEGLIGENCE OR OTHER FAULT OF EITHER PARTY
AND REGARDLESS OF WHETHER SUCH LIABILITY SOUNDS IN CONTRACT, NEGLIGENCE,
TORT, OR ANY OTHER THEORY OF LEGAL LIABILITY, AND NOTWITHSTANDING ANY
FAILURE OF ESSENTIAL PURPOSE OF ANY LIMITED REMEDY.
The limited warranties for Compaq products are exclusively set forth in the documentation accompanying
such products. Nothing herein should be construed as constituting a further or additional warranty.
Compaq Presario
First Edition (November 2000)
Part Number 214905-372
Congratulations! As the owner of a new Compaq Internet PC,
you have joined the worldwide community of Presario computer
users. After your computer is set up and connected to the
Internet, you can explore vast regions of information,
entertainment, and online services.
This guide is designed to help you:
➜
Get acquainted with computer features you’ll want to try
during the first few days or weeks.
➜
Keep your computer running smoothly using the tools on
your computer.
MY P
RESARIO—GETTING STARTED
➜
Solve problems if they occur.
I
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Using This
Guide
Using This Gu ide
This guide is designed for both beginners and experienced
computer users.You can read from cover to cover to learn basic
information about your computer or scan the guide for
information on a specific topic.
Refer to the electronic Glossary on this CD for brief definitions
of computer terms in everyday language.
This chapter shows you how to use this guide and directs you to
other sources of information.
Note: The computer features, components, and the software described in
this guide may differ slightly from those in your Compaq Presario Internet
PC.
1-2 I
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MY P
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Page 12
Symbols and
Graphics Used
Symbols and Graphics Used
The following words and symbols have special meaning in this
guide and in the CD documentation:
Warnings and cautions are
displayed to protect you
from injury, your equipment
from damage, and your files
from data loss.
Failure to follow directions
Warning
could result in bodily harm or
loss of life.
▲
Caution: Failure to follow directions could result in damage to
equipment or loss of data.
Understanding the background
Did you know ...
or concept can help you solve
a problem.
Tip
Helpful hints make using your
computer easier and faster.
Another document or another
See also ...
page in this document has
related information.
Note: Comments or interesting points of information are presented.
MY P
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Where Can
I Find
Information?
Information is available in
several forms: printed
documents, electronic
documents on the CD that
came with your computer,
and the Compaq Web site.
Use this guide as your first
point of reference, and then
refer to the following
documents:
Quick Setup poster
➜
Safety and Comfort
➜
flyer
Warranty Certificate
➜
My Presario—Learning
➜
More
➜
Getting Started:
Microsoft Windows
manual
l
Where Can I Find Information
Warranty Certificate
The warranty details the Compaq commitment to repair or
replace parts during the warranty period, and it lists important
Compaq telephone numbers.
Note: In the event of a mechanical problem, contact Compaq, not the
retailer that sold you the computer.
Keep the warranty in a safe place for future reference.
Replacing Parts
The Easy Access design of your Internet PC allows you to
access internal components—in most cases, without using any
tools.
The My Presario—Learning More guide on this CD describes
procedures for upgrading and replacing computer components.
If you experience a problem and you are unable to resolve the
issue after referring to this guide and the other documents on
this CD, contact Compaq Technical Support. If a replacement
part is needed, the technician will send the replacement part,
along with illustrated instructions for removing the
factory-installed part and replacing it.
Did you know ...
The Compaq Web site is
available worldwide. As you
explore the Internet, go to
the following address for
information about products,
services, and “cool” activities:
www.compaq.com
1-4 I
NTRODUCTION
Upgrading Your Computer
Expand your Presario performance with upgrades, increased
memory and additional peripherals, digital cameras and
printers. To learn more, visit the online store:
www.compaq.com
MY P
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Safety and
Comfort
Your computer is an
electrical device. Treat it
with care to avoid personal
injury and damage to the
equipment.
Warning
To reduce the risk of electric
shock and damage to the
equipment, read the Safety and
Comfort guide on this CD
before performing any
procedures involving the
internal components of your
computer.
Did you know ...
During an electrical storm,
disconnect your computer (and
all peripherals) from the
power source. After shutting
down your computer, turn off
the power button on the surge
protector.
Safety and Comfort
The My Presario—Learning More CD contains a section on
Safety and Comfort which provides information about how to:
➜
Set up your work area for maximum comfort.
➜
Practice good posture, hand position, work habits, and
health habits while using your computer.
➜
Use a grounding plug to prevent electrical shorts, shocks, or
fires.
➜
Use a surge protector to regulate the flow of electricity to the
computer, modem, and all peripherals, such as a printer,
speakers, and monitor.
➜
Become static-free before removing the side panel.
MY P
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Using the My
Presario—
Using the My Presario-Learning More CD
Follow these procedures to navigate through the My Presario—
Learning More CD:
Learning More
CD
This CD has information on
the following topics:
➜
Advanced features of
your computer
➜
Solving computer
problems
➜
Safety and comfort
➜
Compaq service and
support
➜
Upgrading your
computer
➜
Government regulatory
information
Did you know ...
Electronic documents often
have hyperlinks to help you
find information quickly. When
you pass the cursor over a
hyperlink, a small hand
is displayed. When you click a
hyperlink, it jumps to the
referenced page. Hyperlinks
are represented by navigation
buttons, colored text, and
images.
symbol
1. Choose the topic or manual you want to learn more about by
clicking two times.
2. The screen displays the file
hierarchy in the navigation
panel on the left 1 and the
contents on the right 2.
Note: Click the Plus + sign next
to a topic in the left panel to
display subtopics
3. Click the topic you want to view. The screen displays the
topic you selected.
Note: If necessary, use the scroll bars or the scroll mouse to view the
entire page. Scrolling allows you to move right left, up, or down the
page.
4. To view additional topics, click topics from the navigation
panel 1.
Note: You can click the Show/Hide button to close the navigation panel
and enlarge the contents panel.
5. After you finish, click the word Exit (a hyperlink) in the
lower right corner of the screen or click the Close
button
in the upper right corner of the screen (on the title bar).
1-6 I
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Setting
Up Your
Computer
2
2
22
In This Chapter
In This Chapter
In This ChapterIn This Chapter
Your Computer at a
Glance, 2-2
Setting Up Your Computer,
2-3
Registration, 2-4
Setting Up an Internet
Service Provider (ISP)
Account, 2-5
Setting Up Your Printer, 2-6
Your Internet PC is designed for complete ease of use—from
setting up to adding new components. It was also designed to
allow the option of using it as a Desktop PC or Slim Tower PC,
whichever suits your needs. This chapter introduces you to the
internal and external features of your computer. It also walks you
through the process of registering your computer and setting up
an Internet Service Provider (ISP) account.
Note: Illustrations and features shown may differ slightly from your computer.
All descriptions in this reference refers to the tower position.
MY P
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S
ETTING UP YOUR COMPUTER
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Your Computer
at a Glance
Before you begin, you’ll
want to become familiar
with the components of
your Compaq Presario.
Tip
Some components, such as the
keyboard and mouse, have
color-coded connectors that
match the ports on the back of
your computer.
Your Computer at a Glance
What’s in Front?
1 Power On button
2 CD-ROM, CD-RW, or DVD-
ROM drive
3 Disk drive
4 Two universal serial bus
(USB) ports for connecting
peripheral devices, such as
gamepads, joysticks, and
video cameras
What’s in Back?
1 Modem port for connecting
to a phone line
2 Microphone port
3 Audio In / Audio Out
4 Monitor port
5 Serial port for connecting a
serial device such as a printer
6 PS2 ports for connecting a
keyboard or mouse
7 A/C Power port
8 USB ports for connecting an
Internet keyboard, mouse, or
other USB device
9 Parallel port for connecting a
peripheral device such as a
printer
2-2 S
ETTING UP YOUR COMPUTER
Note: Connectors or ports may vary depending on different model releases.
MY P
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Setting Up
Your Computer
If a cable is disconnected or
you move your computer to
another location, this topic
helps you to quickly set up
again.
Setting Up Your Computer
Follow these steps to set up your computer:
Note: Do not set up the printer until your computer has been
set up.
1. Connect the monitor
according to the color
coding, icons, and the
instructions from the
monitor manufacturer.
Tip
It’s a good idea to purchase a
surge protector to protect your
computer from electrical
spikes and power surges.
See also ...
The Quick Set-Up poster that
came with your computer is a
visual guide to setting up your
computer.
Tip
If you have home networking,
refer to the home networking
documentation for instructions
on connecting your phone
lines.
2. Connect the speaker cable
and microphone cable (if
applicable).
3. Connect the power cable.
4. Connect the mouse to the
PS2 port.
5. Connect the keyboard to the
USB port at the back of the unit.
6. Connect the telephone cable
between the Modem Line In
port and the wall outlet.
7. Plug the monitor and computer power cables into the wall
outlet or surge protector.
8. Turn on the monitor, and then press the Power On button to
turn on your computer.
Note: If you are setting up your computer for the first time, follow the
on-screen instructions to register both your operating system and your
computer. The next topics discuss the registration process.
MY P
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Registration
Registration
Registering with Compaq and Microsoft
The first time you turn on
your computer, you are
guided through the
registration process before
accessing the Windows
desktop. It is very important
that you register:
➜
Windows with
Microsoft
➜
Your new computer with
Compaq
Registering with Microsoft
enables you to receive
software updates, and
important notices about new
Microsoft products.
Registering with Compaq
enables you to receive
technical support for the
hardware, software updates
for Compaq programs, and
other special offers.
The registration screen allows you to register with Microsoft
and Compaq from the same display. When you have entered
your personal information (name, address, etc.), you can choose
to register with Microsoft or with Compaq or both.
To register the Windows operating system with Microsoft, fill in
the first check box. To register your computer with Compaq, fill
the second check box. We recommend that you check both
boxes. When you’ve filled in the necessary registration
information, click the Next button to move to the next screen.
When you have finished, you are ready to set up an account
with an Internet Service Provider (ISP). Refer to the following
page.
Did you know ...
Any time you install new
software or hardware, be sure
to register it with the
manufacturer.
2-4 S
ETTING UP YOUR COMPUTER
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Setting up an
Internet Service
Setting Up an Internet Service Provider (ISP) Account
After registering with Compaq and Microsoft, you are prompted
to set up an ISP account.
Provider (ISP)
Account
An ISP gives you access to
the Internet. Just as you
need an account with a
cable company to have
cable service, you must also
have an ISP account to
access the Internet and to
use eMail.
After setting up your
Internet connection, you can
press the Instant Internet ∆
button on your Internet
keyboard, and then like
magic—you’re on the Web!
To set up your account, do one of the following:
➜
If you want
Compaq.NET powered by MSN
as your ISP,
click the Compaq.NET powered by MSN icon and follow
the on-screen instructions.
➜
If you already have
Compaq.NET powered by MSN
as your
ISP, click I already have Compaq.NET powered by MSN
and follow the on-screen instructions.
➜
If you want America Online (AOL) as your ISP, click the
America Online icon and follow the on-screen instructions.
➜
If you already have AOL as your ISP, click I already have
America Online and follow the on-screen instructions.
➜
If you already have an existing Internet account other than
Compaq.NET powered by MSN
or AOL, click
I Already Have an Internet Provider and follow the
on-screen instructions.
Note: If you do not sign up for an ISP account now, you can click the Free
Internet Trial icon on your desktop and sign up any time you like.
Did you know ...
If you have problems
connecting to an ISP, call the
ISP for assistance.
MY P
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Setting Up
Your Printer
Setting Up Your Printer
After setting up and registering your computer, you are ready to
set up your printer. Complete the following steps:
A printer allows you to print
any document from this CD,
your eMail, and Web sites.
Did you know ...
Compaq registration must be
complete before you plug in
your printer and run the
printer setup Disk.
Did you know ...
Most new computers have a
Universal Serial Bus (USB)
port for a new printer that uses
the latest technology. Older
printers, which plug into a
parallel port, cannot be
connected to a USB port. Your
printer may use a USB plug
(rather than a parallel plug
for installation.
1
2
1. Set up your computer and complete the registration
procedures, described on previous pages.
2. Set up the printer according to the printer manufacturer’s
instructions.
3. Connect the printer to the back of your computer according
to the icons.
4. Turn on your computer (if it’s not already on).
5. Turn on the printer.
6. Follow the on-screen instructions. If prompted, insert the
printer setup Disk that contains the printer drivers.
)
Note: Location and style of
connectors may vary by model.
2-6 S
ETTING UP YOUR COMPUTER
MY P
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Page 22
Using Your
Computer
3
3
33
In This Chapter
In This Chapter
In This ChapterIn This Chapter
Keyboard Basics, 3-2
Keyboard Buttons, 3-3
Scroll Mouse, 3-10
Speakers, 3-12
Diskette, Hard Drive,
CD-ROM, and DVD-ROM
Drives, 3-13
In this chapter, you learn about the following exciting,
easy-to-use features of your computer:
➜
Keyboard—Become
familiar with the keyboard
and all its capabilities,
including one-button access
to the Internet!
➜
Scroll Mouse—See how
easy it is to use the scroll
mouse, and learn shortcuts
to save time.
➜
Speakers—Enjoy the
experience of high-quality sound with your computer.
➜
Hard Drive, CD-ROM, and DVD-ROM Drives—Use the
various drives to listen to your favorite CDs or to watch
movies.
MY P
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Keyboard Basics
The standard keys perform
the following functions:
➜
Main keys are the
typewriter-style keys.
➜
Function keys are the
F1 through F12 keys.
Two of these keys are
active even without a
program running. F1
allows you to get help
on Windows-related
topics. F3 allows you to
search for files or
folders.
➜
Arrow keys can be
used for games and to
navigate in a document
or Web site. These keys
allow you to move left,
right, up, and down,
using the keyboard
instead of the mouse.
➜
Numeric keys work like
a calculator keypad.
Keyboard Basics
Getting to Know the Standard
Keyboard Keys
Some keys have special functions when used alone or combined
with other keys. These functions vary depending on the
program you are using.
No.Description
Main Keys
1
Function Keys
2
Arrow Keys
3
Numeric Keys
4
3-2 U
SING YOUR COMPUTER
Note: Style of keyboard may vary.
MY P
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Keyboard
Buttons
The keyboard buttons make
it easier and faster to access
the Internet, use your
favorite software, or listen
to your favorite CD. You
might even want to watch a
movie or send an eMail
(electronic mail).
Keyboard Buttons
The keyboard buttons are shown in the following illustration.
They are discussed in detail on the following pages.
No.ButtonNo.Description
CD/DVD controls
1
Internet Zone
2
Quick Launch Help
3
Quick Launch My Program
4
Volume/Mute buttons
5
Sleep button
6
LED status lights
7
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The CD/DVD control
buttons provide a quick and
easy way to play a CD or a
DVD movie at the touch of
a button.
Many CDs begin playing
automatically when inserted
into the drive. Refer to
Playing an Audio CD in this
chapter to play
a CD.
See also ...
Refer to Adjusting the Volume
in this chapter to adjust the
volume when playing a CD or
a DVD.
Using CD/DVD Control Buttons
Note: Buttons may vary by model.
No.DescriptionNo.Description
Play/Pause starts or
1
pauses a CD or DVD.
Rewind/Previous Track
2
skips to the previous track.
Fast Forward/Next Track
3
skips to the next track.
Stop ends CD or DVD play,
4
rewind, and fast forward
functions.
Eject/Load CD ejects or loads
5
the CD or DVD.
3-4 U
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MY P
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Page 26
With the press of a
keyboard button, you can
quickly access the Internet,
read your eMail, or check
out the latest in
entertainment.
Depending on which
Internet Service Provider
(ISP) you have, the default
options provided by the
Internet Zone buttons may
vary.
Using Internet Zone Buttons
Note: Button functions may vary by model and by region.
Did you know ...
Until you set up your Internet
Service Provider (ISP), each
Internet button takes you to a
window that guides you
through the ISP set-up process.
See also ...
Refer to the “Setting Up Your
Computer” chapter in this
guide for detailed information
about setting up your ISP.
Refer to the “Features Inside
Your Computer” section of the
“Learning More” CD for
information about customizing
the Internet Zone buttons.
No.Description
Search accesses a Web site that helps you locate news and
1
information on the Internet. Search for topics including news and
information, shopping, images, music, and video. The default Web
browser is Alta Vista.
Activity launches your favorite Internet Zone activity. The default
2
brings you to your Community center, a vibrant online community
experience with chat sessions, discussion boards, clubs, home
pages, photo albums, and more.
eMail provides one-touch access for sending and reading your
3
eMail.
Instant Internet provides your daily start point to the Internet. It
4
connects you to a Web page filled with local weather, news, sports
and financial information.
My Presario is your instant connection to Compaq for getting the
5
most out of your computer and the Internet. Learn about the top
Internet Zones or adventure into your favorite Activity Centers to
get creative using the Web.
Retail/Affinity Central provides an instant connection to your
6
computer store and a variety of leading consumer companies.
Entertainment is your online scoop on the world of entertainment
7
featuring music downloads, streaming video, Web casts,
entertainment news, and reviews.
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You can access your
favorite program, Website,
or document by pressing
one of the Quick Launch
Web buttons - Help
My Program
See also ...
Refer to “Preventive
Maintenance” on the
“Learning More” CD for
additional information on
service and support.
The CD also provides
instructions for reassigning the
Help and My Program buttons
in the “What Do I Have?”
section.
2
.
1
and
Using Quick Launch Web Buttons
No.Description
1
2
.
Note: Buttons and their function may vary by model and region.
.
Help takes you to the Help pages, for a menu of Help topics
and utilities.
My Program accesses the utility where you can program the
button to launch your favorite software, Web site, or document.
3-6 U
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Assigning the My Program Button
After you assign the
My Program 1 button
settings, pressing the button
automatically opens your
selected software, Website,
or document.
See also ...
Instructions for reassigning
this button are found in the
“Learning More” guide on the
CD.
The Volum e C ontrol
buttons allow you to
control the volume of your
computer. Or, if you want
silence, press the Mute 3
button. It’s that simple!
1. Press the My Program 1 button. A
window opens.
2. Select a program or Web site.
3. Click Next.
4. Select Program or Document.
5. Select the program or document
you want to assign to the My Program1 button.
6. Click OK to verify your selection.
7. Click OK.
Adjusting the Volume
When listening to or viewing a CD or DVD, use the following
buttons on your keyboard to adjust the volume as needed:
➜
Press the minus button 1
to decrease the volume.
Tip
You can also adjust the volume
by clicking the Speaker
icon located in the system tray
at the bottom-right corner of
the Windows taskbar.
MY P
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➜
Press the plus button 2
to increase the volume.
➜
Press the mute button 3
to turn off the sound.
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Page 29
If you’re going to be away
from your computer but
want to leave the power on,
you can let your computer
go to sleep. This process
allows you to run programs
while your computer goes
into a low-power state,
which saves energy.
However, some software
(such as DVD software)
might disable the sleep
mode.
Tip
You can wake your computer
by moving the mouse, by
clicking a mouse button, or by
pressing any of the keyboard
buttons.
Putting Your Computer to Sleep
Press the Sleep button 1 on the keyboard and your computer
goes to sleep. Or, your computer will go to sleep automatically
if no activity occurs within 20 minutes.
Waking Your Computer
Press the Sleep button 1 on the keyboard and your computer
wakes up.
Did you know ...
You can change the amount of
time that passes before your
computer goes to sleep. See the
Learning More guide CD for
instructions.
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Understanding the System Status Lights
The system lights on the
keyboard provide a quick
status of your computer and
keyboard settings.
Tip
Post Office Protocol (POP) is
a commonly used messaging
protocol. The most widely used
implementation of this
protocol is POP3. POP3 is a
retrieval protocol, used to
retrieve mail messages from a
POP server. eMail messages
received by the POP server are
delivered to a server mailbox,
and messages reside there until
you retrieve them.
The system status lights are shown in the following illustration,
and the function of each light is explained.
No.Description
eMail indicates when you have eMail waiting to be read.
1
Note: This light works only with POP3 Internet services such as
Compaq.NET powered by MSN. The light does not work with
proprietary Internet services such as AOL.
Sleep indicates the computer is in the sleep mode.
2
Num Lock indicates that you can use the numeric key pad to type
3
numbers.
Caps lock indicates all text typed will appear as capitalized letters.
4
Scroll lock indicates when the scroll-lock function is engaged,
5
allowing you to scroll through a document without moving the
cursor.
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Scroll Mouse
Scroll Mouse
Making Screen Selections
Your computer comes with
a scroll mouse. The scroll
mouse directs a cursor on
the Windows desktop. Use
the mouse to move quickly
and easily through a
document or Web site.
Instead of using the scroll
bar to display pages, move
the scroll wheel on your
mouse forward or backward
through a document or Web
site to save time.
Click by pressing and releasing the
left mouse button quickly one time.
You will hear a single clicking
sound.
Accessing Software and Files
Double-click by pressing and
releasing the left mouse button
twice, quickly.
Tip
Some mouse functions may not
work with all software.
3-10 U
SING YOUR COMPUTER
Scrolling
Click by pressing and holding
down the left mouse button
with the cursor positioned on a
scroll bar.
Click and hold down on the
scroll handle (the box in a
scroll bar area) to position text.
Or single-click the arrow
buttons to move up or down
one line at a time.
MY P
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Autoscrolling
AutoScroll allows you to
move forward and
backward through a
document without having
to move the mouse or
mouse wheel continuously.
Did you know ...
The scroll mouse can be
customized for a left-handed
user from the Mouse
Properties dialog box. (Open
the Control Panel and
right-click the mouse icon)
See also ...
Refer to the “Features Inside
You r C o mp ut e r” section of the
“Learning More” CD for
additional information about
the scroll mouse.
1. Open a program and press the
scroll wheel to begin
autoscrolling.
2. Move the mouse once in the
direction you want to scroll
(vertically, horizontally, or
diagonally). The farther you
move the cursor from the
starting point, the faster the
scrolling.
3. To stop autoscrolling, press a
mouse button.
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Speakers
Speakers
Turning on the Speakers
Speaker options depend on
which model you purchase.
The JBL Platinum Series
are the standard speakers
that come with most new
Compaq Presario monitors.
You can use the speakers
freestanding or mount them
to the side of the monitor.
For more information, see
the documentation that
came with the speakers.
To set up the speakers,
follow the directions on the
monitor Quick Set-Up
poster. If you purchased
speakers separately, follow
the included instructions.
Did you know ...
You can plug a digital MP3
portable audio player into the
Audio In port on the right side
of the speaker (on JBL
Platinum Series speakers).
Other portable music players
include:
CD players
➜
Cassette players
➜
AM/FM Stereo
➜
These devices connect with a
stereo cable (3.5 mm/3.5 mm
plug) available at most
electronic stores and computer
retailers.
To turn the speakers on or off,
press the Power button on the
right side of the speaker
No.Description
Power Button—conveniently allows quick power down when not
1
in use, or to mute the sound. Simply push and release the Power
button—the light indicates when the power is on.
Headphone Jack—allows you to connect most stereo
2
headphones for your personal listening pleasure.
Audio-In Port—an advanced feature that lets you quickly
3
connect your favorite digital MP3 player or any portable audio
device and play audio directly through the speakers.
Note: The speakers receive power from the monitor, even when the monitor
power is off. This allows your portable music player to be played without
turning on your computer.
.
Adjusting the Volume
If the volume is too low, use the Volu me Control on the
connected digital player to adjust the volume.
1. PC audio (keyboard, software)
2. Audio In port (keyboard)
3-12 U
SING YOUR COMPUTER
MY P
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Page 34
Diskette, Hard
Drive, CD-ROM,
and DVD-ROM
Drives
Your computer may have
one or more drives,
depending on the model you
purchased:
➜
Diskette drive
➜
Hard drive
➜
CD-ROM drive
➜
CD-RW drive
➜
DVD-ROM drive
Each drive has different size
capacities for storing
information.
Diskette, Hard Drive, CD-ROM, and DVD-ROM Drives
The Diskette Drive
The diskette drive uses a diskette to store files. After
information is copied ontoa diskette, it remains there until you
delete or overwrite it.
1. Hold a diskette with the
label facing to the right if
you have chosen the upright
configuration. Hold a
diskette upward if you have
chosen the desktop
configuration. Ensure the
diskette is pointing toward
the drive as shown in the illustration, then gently push the
diskette into the drive.
2. To remove a diskette, press
the Eject button 2
on the diskette drive.
▲
Caution: Wait until the
diskette-drive activity is
complete (the activity
light
stops glowing)
1
before removing a diskette.
Removing a diskette when
the drive is reading from or
writing to the diskette can
damage the diskette or the
information stored on it.
MY P
RESARIO—GETTING STARTED
Note: Remove the diskette from the
drive before shutting down Microsoft
Windows.
U
SING YOUR COMPUTER
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Page 35
The Hard Drive
The hard drive stores system files, software, and data files
inside your computer. When you install software, download
files from the Internet, receive eMail and attachments, or create
new files, the computer saves them on your hard drive. The
available storage space is gradually used. To regain storage
space, you can delete files or programs loaded on your
computer, or save them on external media such as diskettes, or
CD-R or CD-RW discs.
A CD-ROM drive allows
you to read data from a CD
or listen to a music CD.
A CD-RW drive allows you
to read and write data to a
disc for storage, and allows
you to listen to music or
read data CDs.
A DVD-ROM drive allows
you to view your favorite
movies, listen to music, or
read information from CDs.
If a CD doesn’t play, make
sure the drive is closed.
A CD-ROM drive reads
CDs, CD-R, and CD-RW
media. A DVD-ROM drive
reads all CD media, plus
DVD discs.
When you have finished
listening to the CD, store
the disc in its protective
case, also called a jewel
case.
CD-ROM, CD-RW, or DVD-ROM Drive
Note: Your computer must be turned on before you can insert or remove a
disc.
To insert a CD into an optical drive, follow these steps:
1. Press the Load/Eject
button to open the drive
door.
2. Carefully lift the disc from
the CD case by holding the
disc only by the edges to
avoid touching the surface.
3. Place the disc into
the round area of
the slot, label side
facing upward for
the desktop
configuration. If
you have chosen
the upright
configuration, place the disc with the label facing outward. If
the tray contains support tabs, carefully slide the disc under
the tabs to correctly position it in the tray.
4. Press the Load/Eject
1
button to close the drive door.
1
3-14 U
SING YOUR COMPUTER
MY P
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Page 36
Removing a Disc from a Drive
See also ...
To adjust the volume, refer to
Adjusting the Volume in this
chapter.
Did you know ...
If the CD-ROM, CD-RW, or
DVD-ROM drive can’t play a
disc, check to be sure that the
disc is inserted properly and
seated securely in the drive.
The DVD-ROM drive takes
longer to begin playback
because it has to determine the
type of media being played.
drive
1. Press the Load/Eject 1
button
to
open
the
door.
2. Carefully remove the CD or
the DVD from the drive.
3. Press the Load/Eject
1
button on the front of the
drive to close the door.
4. Store the disc in its protective case.
Playing an Audio CD
1. Press the Load/
Eject button to
open the drive
door. Place the
disc into the
round area of the
slot, label side
facing upward for
desktop configuration. Hold the disc with label facing
outward for the upright position. If the tray contains support
tabs, carefully slide the disc under the tabs to correctly
position it in the tray.
MY P
RESARIO—GETTING STARTED
2. Press Load/Eject button to close the drive door.
3. If, after a few seconds, the disc does not automatically start
playing, press the Play/Pause button on the keyboard.
4. Perform the following tasks using your Internet keyboard as
needed:
➜
Click the Pause button to pause play.
➜
Click the Forward and Back buttons to skip tracks.
➜
Click the Stop button to stop playing the CD.
➜
Press the Eject button on the drive to remove the disc.
U
SING YOUR COMPUTER
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Page 37
You can play a DVD movie
only from a DVD-ROM
drive. When you are
finished watching a movie,
store the DVD in its
protective case.
Tip
Playing a DVD Movie
1. For best performance, close all running programs before
inserting a DVD movie, and insert the DVD into the
DVD-ROM drive. Playback should begin automatically.
2. If playback does not begin automatically, click the Start
button on the Windows taskbar.
3. Point to Programs, and then Compaq DVD Express.
You can control the actions of
the DVD player (pause,
rewind, etc.) from the CD/DVD
control buttons on the
keyboard.
See also ...
Refer to Adjusting the Volume
in this chapter to adjust the
volume when playing a DVD.
4. Choose Compaq DVD Player and then click the Play
button.
3-16 U
SING YOUR COMPUTER
MY P
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Page 38
The CD-RW drive allows
you to create your own
CDs. You can buy two types
of media: CD-R and CDRW.
Creating Your Own CDs
CDs are created using the Adaptec Easy CD Creator (available
on select models). Various uses of the CD-RW drive are shown
below:
CD-R media can be played
on most of the newer CD
players, CD-ROM, and
DVD-ROM drives. CD-R
media can be written to only
once. However, you can
write to CD-RW media
using multiple recording
sessions until you Close out
the disc.
CD-RW media can be used
to make backups of your
personal CDs or hard disk.
These discs are reusable and
can be erased and rewritten
to numerous times.
The Adaptec Easy CD
Creator software is
intuitive. When you place
the cursor over any of the
functions, a description of
the function is displayed.
Note: Confirm that the Easy CD Creator software has been installed before
you begin creating CDs.
MediaUses
AudioCreate personal music CDs with your favorite music tracks
and MP3/WMA files.
DataCreate a data CD to store data, such as files or folders
from the hard drive. This feature is useful for backing up
important files or sharing data with other people.
Direct CDWrite files directly to a CD-R/CD-RW just like you copy files
to a diskette or to your hard drive. Drag and drop files from
one drive to another in Microsoft Explorer without
accessing Easy CD Creator.
CD CopierCreate an entire copy of a CD or a back-up of data files.
Jewel Case
Creator
Note: There is an extensive online Help built into the software. To view
online Help you must load Adobe Acrobat Reader from the My Presario—Learning More CD.
Make custom jewel case inserts and CD labels to indicate
the title and contents of a CD (labels are sold separately).
See also ...
For more information about
using the CD-ROM, CD-RW, or
DVD-ROM drives, refer to the
My Presario—Learning More
guide CD.
MY P
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3-18 U
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Page 40
Welcome to
the Web
4
4
44
In This Chapter
In This Chapter
In This ChapterIn This Chapter
Basic Concepts, 4-2
Compaq Connection
Helper, 4-3
Internet Connection, 4-4
Web Searches, 4-5
eMail, 4-6
Content Advisor, 4-10
In just a few moments, you will
be on the world-wide Web. You
are about to enter an exciting
new world as you join the
thousands of new users
connecting to the Internet for the
very first time!
In this chapter, you begin to
explore the endless possibilities
of the Internet—eMail,
shopping, news, entertainment,
research, education, and much
more. Welcome to the World Wide
Web.
The Internet definitely has
its own terminology. Take a
few moments to understand
some basic concepts that
will help you start surfing
the Web.
To begin surfing, you need
to establish an Internet
Service Provider (ISP)
account.
See also ...
Refer to the “Setting Up Your
Computer” chapter in this
guide for information on how
to register for an ISP account.
The Internet is a world-wide
network of computers connected
through standard telephone lines.
The Internet stores and transmits
documents, pictures, music, and
movies provided by computer
users from all over the world.
Information on a particular topic
or related topics, gathered in one
location on the Internet, is called
a Web site.
What Is a Hyperlink?
Imagine you're reading a
newspaper. As you read page 1,
you may see “For more details,
see page 3, column 2.”
Hyperlinks in a Web site work
the same way. Use the mouse to
click a hyperlink, and you can
move instantly from page to
page, Web site to Web site.
Linking files together is what gives the Web its name, weaving
and connecting idea to idea, all over the world.
4-2 W
ELCOME TO THE WEB
MY P
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Page 42
Compaq
Connection
Helper
Compaq Connection Helper
Setting the Internet Buttons to AOL
1. On the Windows taskbar,
click the Start button.
After you have signed up
with an Internet Service
Provider (ISP), (see
“Setting Up Your
Computer” in Chapter 2)
there are a few things you
need to know to be able to
surf the Web.
If you choose
powered by MSN
Compaq.NET
as your
ISP, the Internet buttons on
your keyboard are
automatically set. However,
if you choose AOL as your
ISP, you need to use the
Compaq Connection Helper
to reset the following
Internet buttons on your
keyboard:
➜
Instant Internet ∆∆∆∆
➜
Search 5555
2. Point to Programs, and then
Compaq Utilities.
3. Choose Compaq
Connection Helper. The
Compaq Connection Helper
dialog box is displayed.
4. Double-click the AOL icon.
The Internet keyboard buttons
will now access AOL.
➜
Instant eMail ƒ
MY P
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W
ELCOME TO THE WEB
4-3
Page 43
Internet
Connection
See also ...
The My Presario - Learning
More guide CD has more
information on Web browsers,
eMail, and news reader
settings.
Internet Conn ection
Web pages are viewed with a Web browser, such as Microsoft
Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator. A Web browser is a
program that lets you view and explore information on the Web.
Common features of a Web browser include:
➜
Home page—your starting point for exploring the Web
➜
Bookmarks/Favorites—a list of Internet addresses you often
visit
➜
History list—a list of Web sites you have visited
Connecting with Compaq.NET
Powered by MSN
If you have chosen Compaq.NET powered by MSN as your ISP,
press the
Instant Internet
powered by MSN home page.
∆∆∆∆button to access the Compaq.NET
4-4 W
ELCOME TO THE WEB
Connecting with AOL
If you have chosen AOL as your ISP and completed “Setting the
Internet Buttons to AOL,” press the Instant Internet
access the AOL home page. Screen varies with version of AOL.
MY P
RESARIO—GETTING STARTED
∆∆∆∆ button to
Page 44
Web Searches
One way to find what
you’re looking for on the
Web is to use a search
engine—your personal
guide to the Web.
A search engine takes
information that is scattered
on Web sites all around the
world and lists it for easy
viewing and printing.
Web Searches
Searching the Web Using Compaq.NET
Powered by MSN
1. Press the Search 5555 button on the Internet keyboard.
The search page is displayed.
2. Enter a keyword in the Search box.
3. Click the Search 5555 button. The search engine displays a list
of Web pages containing your keyword.
Searching the Web Using AOL
1. Complete the “Setting the Internet Buttons to AOL”
procedure.
2. Press the Search 5555
The AOL search page is displayed.
3. Enter a keyword in the Search box.
4. Click the Search 5555
of Web pages containing your keyword.
button on the Internet keyboard.
button. The search engine displays a list
MY P
RESARIO—GETTING STARTED
W
ELCOME TO THE WEB
4-5
Page 45
eMail
eMail
Setting Up Outlook Express eMail
eMail (electronic mail) is
very similar to the mail the
postal carrier delivers to
your home or office—
except much faster.
You can send letters,
pictures, postcards—even
music and video clips—to
friends, family, and
co-workers in an instant.
Outlook Express is an eMail
program that comes with
your computer. Other eMail
programs include AOL and
Hotmail.
Tip
If you receive an error message
saying that your
eMail was undeliverable, check
the address, punctuation, and
spacing and then try sending it
again.
1. Press the Instant eMail ƒ
button on the Internet
keyboard.
2. Click the Send and Receive
button on the toolbar. A dialog box requesting your
password is displayed.
3. Type a password.
4. Click Remember Password to avoid retyping your
password each time you access the Internet.
5. Click OK. You are now set up and ready to use eMail.
Typing an eMail Message
Regardless of the eMail software you choose, creating an eMail
message is like filling out a form. When typing an eMail
message, you must complete the following:
FeatureDescription
To :eMail address of the recipient
Subject:
Cc:Person or persons receiving a copy of your message
Message:
Summary of your message in a few words
Content of your message
4-6 W
ELCOME TO THE WEB
You can also send a Bcc, known as a blind copy. The recipient
of the blind copy is not listed on the eMails received by the
other recipients.
MY P
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Page 46
Understanding eMail Addresses
To send and receive eMail,
you need an eMail address
so that your Internet Service
Provider (ISP) will know
where to “pick up” and
“deliver” mail.
See also ...
The
My Presario—Learning
guide on this CD has
More
information on finding eMail
addresses.
Did you know ...
eMail extensions identify the
type of server where an
organization resides. Some of
the most common eMail
extensions and their
descriptions are as follows:
Some ISPs allow you to pick an eMail address, but others
require you to follow a set pattern:
➜
your name
➜
@
➜
ISP server name
ISP names can be longer and more complex, but basically
anything to the right of the @sign is the ISP server name and
anything to the left is the user name. For example:
Your ISP will guide you through the process of selecting an
Internet name and address unique only to you.
ExtensionDescription
.orgorganization
.comcommercial
.netcommercial
.edueducation
MY P
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W
ELCOME TO THE WEB
4-7
Page 47
Sending an eMail Using Outlook Express
Now that you’ve connected
to an ISP, set up Outlook
Express, and have an
Internet address, it’s time to
write your first eMail
message.
Tip
eMail addresses are written in
a very specific way. Be sure the
eMail address you enter
contains no spaces and has a
period after the server name.
Dashes and underscores may
be used. Capital letters may be
required. Ask eMail recipients
exactly how to write their
eMail addresses.
See also ...
The
My Presario—Learning
guide CD has more
More
information on using eMail.
The documentation that came
with your computer provides
information about setting up a
personal address book.
1. Press the Instant eMail ƒ
button on the Internet
keyboard.
2. Click the New Mail Message icon 1.
3. Type the recipient’s eMail
address in the To... box 2.
4. Type the subject of your
message in the Subject
box 3.
5. Type your message in the
message window 4.
6. Click Send 5.
Sending an eMail Using AOL
1. Press the Instant eMail
2. Click the Write icon on the AOL toolbar.
3. Type the recipient’s eMail address in the Send To box.
4. Type the subject of your message in the Subject box.
5. Type your message in the message window.
6. Click Send Now.
ƒ button on the Internet keyboard.
4-8 W
ELCOME TO THE WEB
MY P
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Page 48
Reading Your Outlook Express
eMail Messages
1. Press the Instant eMail ƒ button on the Internet keyboard.
2. Click Inbox. New messages appear in bold type.
3. Double-click the message to display the message text.
4. Click the Close
button in the upper right corner of the
screen to close the eMail, or press the Delete key on the
keyboard to delete the message. You might also choose to
move the message to (file it in) a different folder.
Reading Your AOL eMail Messages
1. Press the Instant eMail button on the Internet keyboard.
2. Click the Read icon. New messages appear in bold type.
3. Double-click the message to display the message text.
4. Click the Close
screen to close the eMail, or press the Delete key on the
keyboard to delete the message.
button in the upper right corner of the
MY P
RESARIO—GETTING STARTED
You receive eMail messages automatically, even when your
computer is shut down! Your ISP stores these messages until
you decide to open your eMail program and read them.
Your eMail status light on the keyboard glows when you have
unread eMail, even when the system is turned off.
The eMail status light works only with POP3 Internet services
such as Compaq.NET powered by MSN. The light does not work
with proprietary Internet services such as AOL.
W
ELCOME TO THE WEB
4-9
Page 49
Content
Advisor
The Internet provides you
with access to a wide
variety of information;
however, some information
may not be suitable for
every viewer.
Content Advisor
Restricting Internet Content
5. On the Windows taskbar, click Start, point to Settings, then
Control Panel, and then Internet Tools.
6. Click the Content tab.
7. In the Content Advisor area, click Enable. The Content
Advisor window is displayed.
8. Click a category in the list, and then drag the slider to set the
limits you want to use.
9. Repeat this process for each category you want to limit, and
then click OK.
10. The Create Supervisor Password window is displayed. Enter
your password, then re-enter your password to confirm.
11. Click OK, and click OK on the Internet Properties window.
With Content Advisor, you
can:
➜
Control Internet access.
➜
Set up a password.
➜
Set up a list of Web sites
that cannot be viewed
by people who use your
computer.
➜
Determine what people
who use your computer
can view with or
without your
permission.
4-10 W
ELCOME TO THE WEB
MY P
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Page 50
Common
Tasks
5
5
55
In This Chapter
In This Chapter
In This ChapterIn This Chapter
Print Basics, 5-2
.Games, 5-3
Software, 5-4
In this chapter, you learn how to
perform some of the more
common activities with your
new Internet PC.
More details about these and
other everyday activities can
be found on the My Presario—Learning More guide on this
CD.
MY P
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C
OMMON TASKS
5-1
Page 51
Print Basics
Print Basics
Using the Menu to Print
To print one or more pages
from a document file or
Web page, you have to
connect your printer and
install the necessary
software. These procedures
are detailed in the “Setting
Up Your Computer”
chapter in this guide.
Note: To see what the
document will look like when
printed, select the Print Preview option from the File
menu. This option is available
in most software packages.
.
Tip
Print options vary depending
on the printer you installed.
1. Click
File on the menu bar.
2. Click Print. The Print dialog box is displayed.
3. Select the printing options you want.
•Select or confirm the printer you want to use 1.
•Choose the page range to print 2.
•Selecting All prints all pages of a document.
•Selecting Current page prints only the page you are
viewing.
•Selecting Pages allows you to choose the individual
pages you want to print.
•Select the number of copies you want to print 3.
•Select All, Odd, or Even pages in range 4.
See also ...
For additional information
about your printer, refer to the
manufacturer’s
documentation.
5-2 C
OMMON TASKS
4. Click OK 5.
MY P
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Page 52
Games
Did you know ...
You should always use the
same disc drive (CD-ROM or
DVD-ROM) that you used to
install the game when you play
the game. If you experience
problems installing or playing
a game, contact the game
manufacturer for assistance,
or visit their Web site for
updates.
.Games
Your new Internet PC is not only a powerful tool for surfing the
Internet and running software, it also allows you to play games.
Your computer came with several Windows games preinstalled,
and many more are available for purchase or by downloading
from the Internet. You can even play games online with other
players from all over the world.
Before purchasing a game, check the computer requirements
(listed on the outside of the game box) to make sure that your
computer is configured correctly for the game you want to buy.
Playing Preinstalled Games
on Your Computer
1. From the Windows taskbar, click the Start button.
2. Point to Programs, then Accessories, and then Games.
3. Click the icon for the game you want to play.
MY P
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C
OMMON TASKS
5-3
Page 53
Software
You may want to purchase
and install additional
software. Software can be
installed from a CD, DVD,
or diskette, and it can be
downloaded from a Web
site.
Software
Installing Software from a CD, DVD, or
Diskette
1. Close all open programs.
2. From the Windows taskbar,
click the Start button, point
to Settings, and then click
Control Panel.
The installation process
should automatically begin
when you insert the CD into
the proper disc drive. If the
installation process doesn’t
automatically begin, refer to
the documentation that
came with the software. If
no documentation exists,
follow the procedure listed
here to install software from
a CD or diskette.
In the event of difficulties
with the installation, contact
the software manufacturer.
Tip
When selecting software for
your computer, make sure the
packaging states that it is
compatible with your version
of Microsoft Windows, your
computer memory, processor,
and available disk space.
3. Double-click the Add/
Remove Programs icon.
The Add/Remove Programs
Properties window is
displayed.
4. Click Install.
5. Insert the CD or diskette into
the proper drive and click
Next. Microsoft Windows
will begin the installation
process.
5-4 C
OMMON TASKS
MY P
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Page 54
If you download software
from a Web site, follow the
installation instructions
usually displayed on the
Web page. If installation
instructions are not
available, complete the
steps listed here.
Did you know ...
Installing Software Downloaded
from the Internet
1. Before you start downloading, note the location on the
hard drive where the files will be stored. Also, be sure that
you have enough drive space available.
2. After the download is
complete, terminate your
Internet connection.
Before downloading files from
the Internet, make sure that
call-waiting is disabled, and
that your anti-virus utility is
running.
If the download process is
interrupted, you must restart
the download procedure.
See also ...
For more information on
anti-virus software, see
“Preventive Maintenance” on
the
My Presario—Learning
CD.
More
Did you know ...
Some software is downloaded
in a compressed state. Most
Web sites using this technology
provide links to download the
appropriate utility to
uncompress the files.
3. Close all other open
programs.
4. From the Windows taskbar,
click Start, point to
Settings, and then click
Control Panel.
5. Double-click the Add/Remove Programs icon. This
window displays.
6. Click Install. A window displays.
7. Click Next. The Run
Installation Program window
displays.
8. Click Browse.
9. Locate and select the
Setup.exe or Install.exe file
for the downloaded
software.
10. Click Open to begin the
installation process.
MY P
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OMMON TASKS
5-5
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5-6 C
OMMON TASKS
MY P
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Page 56
Need Some
Help?
6
6
66
In This Chapter
In This Chapter
In This ChapterIn This Chapter
Helpful Hints, 6-2
Recovery CD, 6-3
Troubleshooting, 6-4
This chapter provides information on how to identify and fix
common problems that could occur with your computer. Without
contacting a technician, you can easily diagnose and fix many
computer problems on your own.
MY P
RESARIO—GETTING STARTED
N
EED SOME HELP
? 6-1
Page 57
Helpful Hints
Did you know ...
For Compaq.NET technical
support, dial (toll free)
1-800-952-3513.
For Compaq.NET customer
support, dial (toll free)
1-800-952-3512.
Helpful Hints
If you encounter problems with your computer, monitor, or
software, review the following check list before taking further
action:
➜
Check that the computer and monitor are plugged into a
working electrical outlet.
➜
Check to see that the computer is turned on and the power
light located on the front of the computer is on.
➜
Check to see that the monitor is turned on and the power
light on the front of the monitor is on.
To avoid long-distance charges
when connecting to the
Internet, always use a local
area telephone number.
See also ...
For additional troubleshooting
information relating to your
printer or monitor, see the
documentation that came with
your equipment.
➜
Turn up the brightness and contrast controls of the monitor
if the screen is dim.
➜
Check all cable connections for loose or incorrect
connections.
➜
Remove the diskette from the diskette drive before turning
on your computer.
➜
Run Windows Diagnostics to determine and repair minor
problems. Refer to the
My Presario—Learning More
guide
CD for instructions.
Entering BIOS (CMOS) Setup Utility
If you need to enter the BIOS setup utility, press the F10 key
whiles the computer powers on. Before Windows starts, a
blinking cursor is displayed in the upper right corner on the
same screen with the word COMPAQ, displayed in red on a
black background. Press the F10 key when you see the blinking
cursor.
.
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Recovery CD
Recovery CD
Using the Recovery CD
The Recovery CD can
reinstall the software to the
state it was in when you
purchased the computer.
You also have the option of
restoring your computer to
the way it was when you
performed the last User
Backup.
▲
User Backup creates
USER.PQI files. These files
are read-only—you cannot edit
their contents.
Caution: Everything
added to the drive
since the last User
Backup will be lost
after you perform a
user recovery.
Tip
Restarting your computer with the Recovery CD in the drive
displays the following menu of options:
OptionDescription
Emergency
Diskette
User BackupCreates a backup of the current Windows configuration
User RestoreExtracts the data from the USER.PQI files stored on the
Factory Restore Restores the computer to its original factory condition.
Exit
Creates a recovery diskette, which stores the system
information that came with your computer. This diskette
is necessary if Windows does not start normally. You can
start the system with this diskette and access your files.
and saves it on a separate partition on your hard drive.
The backup is stored in USER. PQI files.
D drive and restores the C drive to the settings that
existed at the time of your last User Backup.
You will need to re-enter your factory registration
information again, and you may be prompted to insert
your emergency diskette.
Exits the Recovery CD.
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Troubleshooting
Information in this section is divided into three areas: Symptom,
Problem, and Solution.
If a solution does not fix
your problem, try all
solutions for the symptom
or try the solution a second
Symptom
No sound.
The Symptom line describes the symptom or warning for the
type of problem you are having. The Problem column identifies
one or more reasons why the symptom may have occurred. The
Solution column describes what you should do to try to fix the
problem.
Note: Some of the symptoms listed for certain troubleshooting problems do
not apply to your computer. For specific problems relating to the monitor or
printer, refer to the documentation that came with the equipment.
Troubleshooting
Audio
ProblemSolution
Speaker cables are
not properly
connected.
Volume has been
muted.
Computer is in Sleep
mode. This mode is
identified when the
Power Status light
on your Internet
keyboard is lit in
amber.
Shut down your computer using the normal
shutdown procedure. Reconnect the speakers.
Refer to the Quick Set-Up poster for instructions.
On the Windows taskbar, click the Volume icon and
clear the Mute check box.
See Waking Your Computer in the chapter “Using
Your Computer” in this guide.
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CD-ROM, CD-RW, or DVD-ROM
Symptom
CD-ROM, CD-RW, or DVD-ROM
drive cannot read a disc or
takes too long to start.
Recording audio CDs is difficult
or impossible.
ProblemSolution
CD has been inserted
incorrectly.
The DVD-ROM drive
takes longer to start
because it has to
determine the type of
Reinsert the CD with the label facing the proper
direction.
Wait at least 30 seconds to let the DVD-ROM
drive determine the type of media being played.
If the disc still does not start, read the other
solutions listed in this topic.
media being played,
such as audio or video.
CD or DVD disc is dirty. Clean CD or DVD with a CD cleaning kit,
available in most computer stores.
Windows does not
detect CD-ROM or
DVD-ROM driver.
1. On the Windows taskbar, click Start, point to
Settings, and then click Control Panel. The
Control Panel window is displayed.
2. Double-click the System icon. The System
Properties dialog box is displayed.
3. Click the Device Manager tab.
4. Click the plus sign next to the CD or DVD
drive, and select the installed driver.
5. Click the Remove button, and click OK twice.
6. Restart your computer, and let Windows
detect the CD or DVD driver.
Wrong or poor quality
media type.
Verify that you are using the correct media for
the drive.
Try a different brand of media. Quality varies
widely between manufacturers.
MY P
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Note: See the online Help in the Easy CD
Creator software for detailed
troubleshooting tips.
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Diskette Drive
Symptom
Not reading drive: “Abort,
Retry, Fail?” message appears.
“Non-system disk or disk
error” message is displayed.
ProblemSolution
A non-formatted
diskette has been
inserted.
To format the diskette:
1. Double-click the My Computer icon on the
Windows desktop.
2. Select the diskette (A) drive.
3. Click File, and point to Format.
4. Select desired options, and click Start to
begin formatting the diskette.
Diskette is damaged.Replace the diskette with a new one.
A diskette that does
not contain system
files needed to start
When drive activity stops, remove the diskette
and press the Spacebar. The computer should
start up.
your computer has
been inserted in drive.
Disk error has
occurred.
Restart your computer by pressing the Start/
Reset button. If the error returns, see the next
problem “System files have been damaged.”
System files have been
damaged.
1. Insert a start-up diskette into the diskette
drive.
2. Restart your computer.
3. At the A:> prompt, type SYS C: and press the Enter key. The following message is
displayed: SYSTEM TRANSFERRED. This task
restores the system files to the hard drive.
4. Restart your computer.
Hard drive has failed.Call Compaq Technical Support. Refer to your
Certificate of Warranty for details.
Diskette drive light stays on.
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Symptom
Diskette drive cannot save
information to diskette.
ProblemSolution
Diskette has been
improperly inserted.
Remove the diskette and reinsert it as follows:
Insert the edge with the sliding cover into the
drive. Push the diskette, arrow pointing toward
the computer, all the way in until the diskette
stops.
Diskette is damaged.Remove the diskette and insert a new diskette. If
a problem persists, run the Windows
Maintenance Wizard to repair the drive:
1. From the Windows taskbar, click the Start
button.
2. Point to Programs, then Accessories, then
System Tools, and then click Maintenance
Wizard.
3. Select Perform maintenance now.
4. Click OK.
Diskette is not
formatted.
To format the diskette:
1. On the Windows desktop, double-click the
My Computer icon.
2. Select the diskette (A) drive.
3. Click File, and point to Format.
4. Select the desired options, and click Start to
begin formatting the diskette.
Diskette is
write-protected.
Diskette is full or file is
too big.
File save command
does not properly
Slide the write-protection tab to the unlocked
position on the diskette.
Use another diskette or compress the file to
reduce the size.
When saving information to the diskette drive,
verify that you are using the correct drive letter.
execute.
Diskette is damaged.Replace the damaged diskette.
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Symptom
Diskette drive cannot read a
diskette.
ProblemSolution
Diskette drive has
failed.
Diskette is not
formatted.
Call Compaq Technical Support. Refer to your
Certificate of Warranty for details.
To format the diskette:
1. On the Windows desktop, double-click the
My Computer icon.
2. Select the diskette (A) drive.
3. Click File, and point to Format.
4. Select the desired options, and click Start to
begin formatting the diskette.
Diskette drive has
failed.
Call Compaq Technical Support. Refer to your
Certificate of Warranty for details.
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Display (Monitor)
Symptom
Screen is blank, and monitor
power light is not lit.
Screen is blank.
ProblemSolution
Monitor power cable is
not connected to
Reconnect the power plug on the back of the
monitor and to a grounded (earthed) wall outlet.
monitor or wall outlet.
Monitor is not turned
on.
Monitor connector
cable is not properly
connected to back of
computer.
Screen saver is
enabled.
Computer is in Sleep
mode, as shown on
Press the Power button on the front of the
monitor.
Inspect the monitor video connector for bent
pins. If bent pins do not exist, reconnect the
monitor connector cable on the back of the
computer.
Press any key, or move the mouse to display the
screen.
See Waking Your Computer in the “Using Your
Computer” chapter in this guide.
the keyboard LED
panel.
If you have a flat-panel
Refer to your Certificate of Warranty for details.
monitor (available on
select models), you
may need a Digital
Video Interface and
connector.
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Hard Drive
Symptom
Computer does not respond, or
seems to be locked up.
Hard drive error message is
displayed.
Hard drive fault protection error
message is displayed.
ProblemSolution
Program in use has
stopped responding to
commands.
Attempt a normal Windows shutdown. If this
fails, press the Reset button for four or more
seconds to turn off the power. To restart your
computer, press the Reset button again.
Part of hard drive has
failed.
Run the Windows Maintenance Wizard to repair
the drive:
1. From the Windows taskbar, click the Start
button.
2. Point to Programs, then Accessories, then
System Tools, and then click Maintenance
Wizard.
3. Select Perform maintenance now.
4. Click OK.
Part of hard drive has
potential to fail or
Call Compaq Technical Support. Refer to your
Certificate of Warranty for details.
could already have
failed.
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Internet Access
Symptom
Cannot connect to the Internet.
Cannot automatically launch
Internet programs.
Internet takes too long to
download Web sites.
ProblemSolution
Internet Service
Provider (ISP) account
Verify Internet settings, or contact your ISP for
assistance.
is not properly set up.
Modem is not properly
set up.
Reconnect the modem, verifying the following
connections: telephone line to telephone (for
external phone sets) and telephone line to wall
jack (from computer to wall).
Web browser is not
properly set up.
You must log in to your
ISP before certain
Verify that the Web browser is installed and set
up to work with your ISP.
Log in to your ISP and launch the desired
program.
programs will start.
Modem is not properly
set up.
Verify that correct modem speed and COM port
are selected:
1. Click Start and point to Settings.
2. Click Control Panel. The Control Panel
window is displayed.
3. Double-click Modems. Windows detects the
modem(s) you have installed.
4. Click the Properties button. An identification
window is displayed.
5. Verify that the correct modem port is set and
the maximum speed of your modem is
selected. Reset these settings if necessary.
6. Click OK to close the identification window.
7. Click Close to close the Modems Properties
Window.
8. Click The Close
corner of the Control Panel window to return
to the Windows desktop.
button in the upper right
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Keyboard and Scroll Mouse
Symptom
Keyboard commands and
typing are not recognized by
computer.
Mouse does not respond to
movement or is too slow.
ProblemSolution
Keyboard connector is
not properly
connected.
1. On the Windows taskbar, click the Start
button.
2. On the Start menu, click Shut Down... The
Shut Down Windows dialog box is displayed.
3. Select the Shut down option.
4. Click OK.
5. After the shutdown is complete, reconnect
the keyboard to the back of your computer
and restart your computer.
Program in use has
stopped responding to
commands.
Shut down your computer using the mouse.
Refer to the problem below, “Mouse connector is
not properly connected.”
Keyboard needs repair.Refer to your Certificate of Warranty for details.
Mouse connector is
not properly
connected.
Shut down your computer using the keyboard:
1. Press the Ctrl and Esc keys at the same time
to display the Start menu.
2. Use the up or down arrow key to select Shut Down..., and then press the Enter key.
3. Select the Shut down option. You may need
to use the up or down arrow key.
4. Press the Enter key to select OK.
5. After the shutdown is complete, reconnect
the mouse connector on the back of your
computer (or the keyboard) and restart your
computer.
Mouse will only move vertically
or horizontally.
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Mouse roller ball is
dirty.
Remove the roller ball cover from the bottom of
the mouse, and clean with mouse cleaning kit
(available in most computer stores).
Program in use has
stopped responding to
commands.
Shut down your computer using the keyboard.
Refer to the preceding problem “Mouse
connector is not properly connected” for details
on how to shut down using the keyboard.
Mouse needs repair. Call Compaq Technical Support. See your
Certificate of Warranty for details.
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Memory
Symptom
Insufficient memory message
is displayed.
ProblemSolution
All memory in
computer is being
used by open
programs, and
memory is needed for
desired task.
To avoid Windows automatically running
unnecessary programs at startup:
1. From the Windows desktop, click the Start
button.
2. Select Run.
3. In the Open box, type MSCONFIG.
4. Click OK. The System Configuration Utility
dialog box is displayed.
5. Click the Startup tab, and clear the check
box(es) for any unnecessary programs.
Close one or more programs, and restart
Windows to recover memory. If the error
message is displayed again, repeat the
preceding steps and close one or more
programs.
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Power
Symptom
Computer will not turn on.
“Illegal Operation has
Occurred” error message is
displayed.
ProblemSolution
Line voltage selection
switch is not in the
proper position for
your region (115V/
230V).
Wall outlet is bad.Test the outlet by connecting a different
Software being used is
not Microsoft-certified
for your version of
Windows.
Configuration files are
corrupt.
Set the line voltage selection switch to the
correct setting for your region, or call Compaq
Technical Support for assistance. Refer to your
Certificate of Warranty for details.
electrical device to outlet.
Verify that the software is certified by Microsoft
for your version of Windows (see program
packaging for this information).
If possible, save all data, close all programs, and
restart your computer. If the error message
returns, you may need to back up your data files
and use the Recovery CD. Refer to the Recovery
CD table in this chapter for details.
▲
Caution: Factory Restore reformats
your hard drive; all data files will be
lost.
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Symptom
Computer will not start.
ProblemSolution
System files may have
been damaged. Insert
a start-up diskette or
Windows Start-Up
diskette to restart your
computer.
1. Insert a start-up diskette into the diskette
drive.
2. Restart your computer.
3. At the A:> prompt, type SYS C: and press the
Enter key. The following message will be
displayed: SYSTEM TRANSFERRED. This task
restores the system files to your hard drive.
4. Restart your computer.
If this task does not restart your computer, call
Compaq Technical Support. Refer to your
Certificate of Warranty for details.
Wrong memory
modules were used in
upgrade, or memory
Verify the installation of memory modules by
calling Compaq Technical Support. Refer to your
Certificate of Warranty for details.
modules were installed
in the wrong location.
Hard drive has been
damaged.
Call Compaq Technical Support. Refer to your
Certificate of Warranty for details.
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Index
I
Symbols
@ sign 4-7
A
Activity button, described 3-5
Adaptec Easy CD Creator, creating CDs 3-17
Add/Remove Programs 5-4
Alta Vista, Web brouser 3-5
America Online, see AOL
AOL
connecting with
icon 4-3
searching
arrow keys 3-2
audio
playing a CD 3-15
speaker port 2-2
Audio-In port, described 3-12
autoscrolling 3-11
B
BIOS setup 6-2
buttons
Activity 3-5
application launch 3-6
Back 3-15
Close 4-9
customizing keyboard 3-5
Eject 3-15
eMail 3-5
Entertainment 3-5
Forward 3-15
Help 3-6
Instant eMail 4-6, 4-8
Instant Internet 2-5, 3-5
Mute 3-7
My Presario 3-5
My Program 3-6, 3-7
Play/Pause 3-15
Quick Launch 3-6
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Retail/Affinity Central 3-5
Search 3-5, 4-5
Send and Receive 4-6
Sleep 3-8
Start 4-3
Stop 3-15
volume
controlling 3-7
down 3-7
up 3-7
C
cables
power 2-3
speaker and microphone 2-3
telephone 2-3
CD/DVD-ROM drive
Compaq DVD Player 3-16
control buttons
described 3-4
Eject/LoadCD 3-4
Fast Forward/Next Track 3-4
Play/Pause 3-4
Rewind/Previous Track 3-4
Stop 3-4
functions 3-16
inserting a CD or DVD 3-15
playing a movie 3-16
Windows does not detect driver 6-5
CD-R drive, described 3-17
CD-ROM drive
location, illustrated 2-2
removing a disc 3-15
CD-RW drive
backup disc 3-17
described 3-17
CDs
cleaning 6-5
creating 3-17
inserting into drive 3-14
playing audio CD 3-15
removing from drive 3-15
Compaq
My Presario button 3-5
registration 2-3, 2-4
Web site 1-4
Compaq.NET powered by MSN 2-5, 4-3, 4-5
components, described and illustrated 2-2
connectors, color-coded 2-2
Content Advisor