Elitegroup A900 User Manual

900001

Preface

Copyright 2001



All Rights Reserved.

Manual edition, November 2001

The information in this document is subject to change without prior
notice in order to improve reliability, design and function and does
not represent a commitment on the part of the manufacturer.

In no event will the manufacturer be liable for direct, indirect, special,
incidental, or consequential damages arising out of the use or inability
to use the product or documentation, even if advised of the possibility
of such damages.

This document contains proprietary information protected by
copyright. All rights are reserved. No part of this manual may be
reproduced by any mechanical, electronic, or other means in any form
without prior written permission of the manufacturer.

Trademarks

AutoCAD and Autoshade are trademarks of Autodesk, Inc. IBM,
OS/2, and VGA are trademarks of International Business Machines
Corp. Lotus, 1-2-3, and Symphony are trademarks of Lotus
Development Corp. Windows, Word, MS-DOS, and Microsoft are
trademarks of Microsoft Corp. VESA is a trademark of Video
Electronics Standards Association.

Other product names mentioned herein are used for identification
purposes only and may be trademarks and/or registered trademarks of
their respective companies.

Limitation of Liability

While reasonable efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of
this manual, the manufacturer and distributor assume no liability
resulting from errors or omissions in this manual, or from the use of
the information contained herein.

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Table of Contents

Chapter 1: Introduction--------------------------------------------------1

Welcome to the DeskNote Computer --------------------------------------- 2
Unpacking the DeskNote Computer----------------------------------------- 2
Accessories and Optional Devices------------------------------------------- 3
Getting to Know Your Computer -------------------------------------------- 3

Opening the LCD Panel ------------------------------------------------ 3
The Front ----------------------------------------------------------------- 6
The Right Side ----------------------------------------------------------- 7
The Left Side------------------------------------------------------------- 7
The Rear Side ------------------------------------------------------------ 8
The Bottom--------------------------------------------------------------10

Preparing the DeskNote for Transport -------------------------------------11

Chapter 2: Getting Started ------------------------------------------- 13

Operating Environment ------------------------------------------------------13
Connecting the AC Adapter -------------------------------------------------13

Using the AC adapter as your power source ------------------------14
Using both the battery and AC adapter as your power source ----15

Turning On Your DeskNote Computer ------------------------------------16

About the ROM BIOS -------------------------------------------------17
About the Power-On Self Test----------------------------------------17
Resetting the System ---------------------------------------------------18
Adjusting the Brightness-----------------------------------------------18

Operating on Battery Power -------------------------------------------------18

Chapter 3: Using the DeskNote Computer----------------------19

The LCD Display -------------------------------------------------------------19

Adjusting the LCD Screen Display-----------------------------------19

A Tour of the DeskNote's Keyboard ---------------------------------------20

The DeskNote’s Hot Key Controls-----------------------------------22

The TouchPad -----------------------------------------------------------------22

Using the TouchPad----------------------------------------------------22

TouchPad Precautions -------------------------------------------------23
Connecting an External Tracking Devices---------------------------------24
Data Storage and Retrieval --------------------------------------------------24

The Upgradeable HDD Module --------------------------------------24

To Upgrade Your Hard Drive-----------------------------------------24

iii

The CD-ROM -----------------------------------------------------------------26

Features of the CD-ROM Module------------------------------------26

Precautions for Handling CD-ROM Discs --------------------------26

Loading a Disc----------------------------------------------------------27
The Multimedia Sound System ---------------------------------------------27
Connecting Peripheral Devices----------------------------------------------28
Power Saving Modes ---------------------------------------------------------30
The AC Adapter---------------------------------------------------------------30
The Battery Power System (Optional) -------------------------------------30

Battery Indicators-------------------------------------------------------30

Small Battery for the Real Time Clock ------------------------------32

Chapter 4: Troubleshooting ----------------------------------------- 33

Locating a Problem -----------------------------------------------------------33
Checking Cables and Connections------------------------------------------34
The Power-On Self Test------------------------------------------------------35
General Hardware Problems-------------------------------------------------36
Contacting Your Dealer ------------------------------------------------------37

Chapter 5: Running BIOS Setup------------------------------------ 39

Introduction--------------------------------------------------------------------39
Navigating through BIOS Setup --------------------------------------------39
Accessing the BIOS Setup Program----------------------------------------39

Item Specific Help------------------------------------------------------39
The Menu Bar -----------------------------------------------------------------40
The Legend Bar ---------------------------------------------------------------40
Launching Submenus---------------------------------------------------------41
General Help-------------------------------------------------------------------41

Save Changes and Exit the Setup Program--------------------------41
The Standard CMOS Setup--------------------------------------------------42
The Advanced CMOS Setup ------------------------------------------------43
The Peripheral Setup ---------------------------------------------------------46
Change Supervisor Password------------------------------------------------48
Auto Configuration with Optimal Settings --------------------------------48
Save Settings and Exit--------------------------------------------------------49
Exit Without Saving ----------------------------------------------------------49

Chapter 6: The Software Utilities Disks-------------------------- 51

AutoRun Installation----------------------------------------------------------51

Installing VGA Display Drivers for Win98SE/2K/ME/XP -------51

iv

Intalling the Audio Driver for Win98SE/2K/Me/XP---------------52

Installing the TouchPad Driver for Win98SE/2K/Me/XP---------52

Installing the IR Driver for Win2K/XP/ME-------------------------52
Manual Installation -----------------------------------------------------------53

Installing the IR Driver for Win98SE--------------------------------53

Installing the LAN Driver for Win2K -------------------------------54

Installing the LAN Driver for Win98SE/ME -----------------------55

Installing the LAN Driver for WinXP -------------------------------55

Installing the Modem Driver for Win2K/XP------------------------56

Installing the Modem Driver for Win98SE/ME --------------------56
Windows 98SE/ME VGA Utilities -----------------------------------------57

Display Modes ----------------------------------------------------------57

Video Setting------------------------------------------------------------61

3D Settings --------------------------------------------------------------61

Gamma Correction -----------------------------------------------------62
Windows 2000/XP VGA Utilities ------------------------------------------63

Gamma Correction -----------------------------------------------------64

Video Setting------------------------------------------------------------65

Driver Mode Settings --------------------------------------------------65

Appendix: Specifications ---------------------------------------------68

Detailed DeskNote Specifications ------------------------------------------68

General-------------------------------------------------------------------68

Mass Storage ------------------------------------------------------------69

Video System -----------------------------------------------------------69

Electrical-----------------------------------------------------------------70

Mechanical --------------------------------------------------------------70

Operating Environment------------------------------------------------70

Options-------------------------------------------------------------------70

Software Specifications------------------------------------------------70

v

Notices

Federal Communications Commission Radio Frequency
Interference Statement

NOTE:

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

•

•

•

This equipment has been tested and found to comply

Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from

that to which the receiver is connected.

•

Consult the dealer or an experienced radio TV technician for help.

Notice:

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party
responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate
the equipment. Shielded interface cables and a non-shielded AC
power cord must be used in order to comply with emission limits.
This equipment is to be used with power supply: Rated input 100-240
Vac, 50-60 or 47-63Hz, 1.5A maximum; output 12 Vdc, 3.75A min.,
45W; Marked "Limited Power Source" or "LPS" on the unit. There is
no internal power supply.

Canadian DOC Notice For Class B Computing Devices

This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian
Interference - Causing Equipment Regulations. Cet appareil
numerique de la classe B repecte toutes les exigences du Règlement
sur le matèriel brouilleur du Canada.

vi

Safety Precautions

This section is designed to assist you in identifying potentially unsafe
conditions while working with this product. Required safety features
have been installed in the computer to protect you from injury.
However, you should use good judgment to identify potential safety
hazards:

1.

Please read these safety instructions carefully.

2.

Please keep this User's Manual for later reference.

3.

Please disconnect this equipment from AC outlet before cleaning.

Don't use liquid or sprayed detergent for cleaning. Use moisture

sheet or cloth for cleaning.

4.

For pluggable equipment, that the socket-outlet shall be installed

near the equipment and shall be easily accessible.

5.

Please keep this equipment from humidity.

6.

Lay this equipment on a reliable surface when isntall. A drop or

fall could cause injury.

7.

Make sure to use the right voltage for the power source when

connecting the equipment to the power outlet.

8.

Place the power cord in such a way that people can not setp on it.

Do not place anything on top of the power cord.

9.

All cautions and warnings on the equipment should be noted.

10.

If the equipment is not use for a long time, disconnect the

equipment from the main power outlet to avoid being damaged

by transient overvoltage.

11.

Never pour any liquid into the opening, this could cause fire or

electrical shock.

12.

Never open the equipment. For safety reason, the equipment

should only be opened by a qualified service personnel.

13.

If on the following situations arises, get the equipment checked

by a service personnel:

a.

The Power cord or plug is damaged.

b.

Liquid has penetrated into the equipment.

vii

c.

The equipment has been exposed to moisture.

d.

The equipment has not work well or you can not get it work

according to the user's manual.

e.

The equipment has dropped and damaged.

f.

If the equipment has obvious sign of breakage.

14.

Do not leave this equipment in an environment unconditioned,

storage temperature above 60°C (140°F), it may damage the

equipment.

15.

The unit can be operated at an ambient temperature of max. 35°C.

16.

The sound pressure level at the operators position according to

IEC 704-1: 1982 is equal or less than 70 dB(A).

17.

Power Cord Requirements

The power cord set used with the AC adaptor must meet the

requirements of the country where you use the AC adaptor,

whether it is 100-120 or 200-240 Vac. The following information

explains the requirements for power cord set selection.

 The cord set must be approved for the country in which it is

used.

 The appliance coupler must have a configuration for mating

with a CEE22/EN6032/IEC 320 appliance inlet.

A. For U.S. and Canada:

 The cord set must be UL Listed and CSA Certified.

 The minimum specifications for the flexible cord are No. 18

AWG.

B. For Japan:

 All components of the cord set must bear a “ T ” mark and

registration number in accordance with the Japanese Dentori
Law.

 The minimum specifications for the flexible cord are .75m ㎡

conductors.

C. For Other Countries:

viii

 The cord set fittings must bear the certification mark of the

agency responsible for evaluation in a specific country.

 The flexible cord must be of a HAR (harmonized) type

H03VV-F.

 The cord set must have a current capacity of a least 2.5

Amperes and voltage rating of 125 or 250 Vac.

18. When using your telephone equipment, basic safety precautions

should always be followed to reduce the risk of fire, electric

shock and injury to persons. These precautions includes the

following:

1. Do not use this product near water, for example, near a
bathtub, wash bowl, kitchen sink or laundry tub, in a wet
basement or near a swimming pool.

2. Avoid using a telephone (other than a cordless type) during
an electrical storm. There may be a remote risk of electric
shock from lightning.

3. Do not use the telephone to report a gas leak in the vicinity
of the leak.

4. Use only the power cord indicated in this manual.

Wichtige Sicherheitshinweise

1.

Bitte lesen Sie diese Hinweis sorgfältig durch.

2.

Heben Sie dirse Anleitung für den späteren Gebrauch auf.

3.

Vor jedem Reinigen ist das Gerät vom Stromnetz zu trennen.
Versenden Sie Keine Flüssig- oder Aerosolreiniger. Am besten
eignet sich ein angefeuchtetes Tuch zur Reinigung.

4.

Die Netzanschluβsteckdose soll nahe dem Gerät angebracht und
leicht zugänglich sein.

5.

Das Gerät ist vor Feuchtigkeit zu schützen.

6.

Bei der Aufstellung des Gerätes ist auf sicheren Stand zu achten.
Ein Kippen oder Fallen könnte Beschädigungen hervorrufen.

7.

Beachten Sie beim Anschluß an das Stromnet die Anschlußwerte.

8.

Verlegen Sie die Netzanschlußleitung so, daß niemand darüber
fallen kann. Es sollte auch nichts auf der Leitun abgestellt
werden.

ix

9.

Alle Hinweise und Warnungen, die sich am Gerät befinden, sind
zu beachten.

10.

Wird das Gerät üeinen längeren Zeitraum nicht benutzt, sollten
Sie es vom Stromnetz trennen. Somit wird im Falle einer
Überspannung eine Beschädigung vermieden.

11.

Durch die Lüftungsöffnungen dürfen niemals Gegenstände oder
Flüssigkeien in das Gerät gelangen. Dies könne einen Brand
bzw. Elektrischen Schlag auslösen.

12.

Öffnen Sie niemals das Gerät. Das Gerät darf aus Gründen der
elektrischen Sicherheit nur von authorisiertem Servicepersonal
geöffnet werden.

13.

Wenn folgende Situationen auftreten ist das Gerät vom
Stromnetz zu trennen und von einer qualifizierten Servicestelle
zu Überprüfung.:

a.

Netzlabel oder Netzstecker sind beschädigt.

b.

Flüssigkeit ist in das Gerät eingedrungen.

c.

Das Gerät war Feuchtigkeit ausgesetzt.

d.

Wenn das Gerät nicht der Bedienungsanleitung entsprechend
funktioniert oder Sie mit Hilfe dieser Anleitung keine
Verbesserung erzielen.

e.

Das Gerät ist gefallen und/oder das Gehäuse ist beschädigt.

f.

Wenn das Gerät deutliche Anzeichen eines Defektes aufweist.

14.

VORSICHT: Explosiongsgetahr bei unsachgemäßen Austausch
der Batterie. Ersatz nur durch denselben oder einem vom
Hersteller empfohlenem ähnlichen Typ. Entsorgung gebrauchter
Batterien nach Angaben des Herstellers.

15.

Dieses Schaltnetzteil kann bis zu einer Außentemperatur von
maximal 35ºC.

16.

Die Ausgangswerte dürfen nicht die auf dem Label angegebenen
Werte überschreiten.

17.

Anforderungen an das Stromkabel

x

Das Kabel-Set, das an das Netzteil angeschlossen wird, muss den
Anforderungen des Landes, in dem Sie das Netzteil einsetzen,
genügen, je nachdem, ob die Netzspannung 100-120 oder 200­240V Wechselspannung beträgt.

 Das Kabel-Set muss für das Land, in dem es eingesetzt wird,

zugelassen sein.

 Der Gerätestecker des Kabels muss in eine CEE22/ EN603/

IEC 320 Buchse passen.

A. Für die USA und Kanada:

 Das Kabel-Set muss UL-gelistet und CSA zertifiziert sein.
 Die Minimalanforderungen für das Kabel entsprechen No. 18

AWG.

B. Für Japan:

 Alle Teile des Kabel-Sets müssen entsprechend dem

japanischen Dentori Law mit einem “T”-Symbol markiert
sein

 Die Minimalanforderungen für das Kabel sind .75m ㎡ Leiter.

C. Für andere Länder:

 Die Zubehörteile des Kabel-Sets müssen das Prüfsiegel

derjenigen Stelle, die in dem jeweiligen Land für die
Sicherheitsprüfung zuständig ist, tragen.

 Das Kabel muss vom HAR (harmonisierten) Typ H03VV-F

sein.

 Das Kabel-Set muss eine Stromkapazität von mindestens 2,5

Ampere haben und Spannungen von 125 oder 250 V
Wechselstrom gestatten.

xi

Personal Inventory

This DeskNote computer system is designed for years of productive
and pleasurable computing. Use this section to keep notes about
details of your purchase. Update this section when you add new
options.

Date of Purchase:

Dealer’s Name:

Phone:

Address:

E-Mail Address:

WWW Site:

Serial Number:

CPU Type:

Hard Disk Capacity:

Memory Capacity:

Optional Equipment:

xii

CChhaapptteerr 11

Introduction

r

UUsseer

amounts of time in front of computer monitors now that scientists from
many fields including anatomy, psychology, and occupational safety are
involved in the study of ergonomically sound work environments.

A few tips to help you work effectively without a lot of physical
discomfort:

•

•

•

•

•

''ss IInnffoo::

Purchase a chair with armrests and good back support. Don't
slouch when sitting; keep your back straight.

Try to place the LCD panel or external monitor so that there is
little glare from the sun on the monitor.

Walk around the room every hour.
Every half hour look away from the computer screen for a few

minutes.
Place everything that you need to work within easy reach.

There are more and more people spending large

1

Welcome to the DeskNote Computer

Congratulations on your purchase of the DeskNote computer. Your
DeskNote features the latest advances in portable computing
technology. The DeskNote is designed for those who need the full
power of a desktop PC with a modular design to provide maximum
expandability without compromising portability.

The high-performance CPU and enhanced IDE hard drive provide you
with extra processing power for handling complex graphics and
running large programs.

The DeskNote features a factory fixed expansion module; a 5¼" CD­ROM or DVD-ROM/CD-RW drive.

To keep pace with the accelerated advances in technology, your
DeskNote provides extensive upgrade options, an upgradeable hard
disk drive and an upgradeable DIMM.

Unpacking the DeskNote Computer

The DeskNote comes securely packaged in a sturdy cardboard
shipping carton. If anything is missing or damaged, please contact
your DeskNote dealer immediately.

The shipping carton should contain the following items:

•

The DeskNote computer

•

An AC/DC adapter

•

An AC power cord

•

SPDIF cable

•

Phone cable

•

The User's manual/Software Drivers CD title

Do not throw the packaging materials away. You may need them later
if you have to ship the computer for repairs.

2

Accessories and Optional Devices

•

USB Key pad

•

USB FDD

•

TV-Out cable

•

External Battery (optional)

Getting to Know Your Computer

Opening the LCD Panel

At the front of the DeskNote you will find a retaining latch on the
display panel, which locks the display in closed position when the
DeskNote is not in use.

1.

Slide the display panel latches on both sides to the direction
facing you until the display panel releases, and then raise the
LCD screen.

2.

At any time you can tilt the display toward or away from you to a
comfortable viewing position.

CCaauuttiioonn::

1. Try not to slam the display upon closing it.

2. Try not to place any object on top when it is closed or open.

3. Be sure the system is turned off or in suspend mode before
you close the display panel.

With the LCD screen open, you will see several features important for
operating your DeskNote computer.

To avoid damage to the display panel:

3

Each of these features is briefly described below.

LCD Cover Release Latch

11..

Allows you to open the display panel and reveal the LCD screen and
the keyboard.

LCD Screen

22..

Your DeskNote computer is equipped with a replaceable color 14.1"
Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) screen that supports up to 1024 x 768
LCD resolution.

Volume Button

33..

Use these two buttons to increase or decrease the hardware volume of
your audio output.

4

Internet Button

44..

Press this button to launch Microsoft Internet Explorer or your default
browser.

E-Mail Button

55..

Use this key to open the Microsoft's Outlook Express to send/receive
your mail.

Power/Resume Button

66..

Pressing this button for 1-2 seconds will turn on the system or
pressing this button when the computer is in Suspend mode will
resume normal operation.

Pressing this button for 4 seconds will also turn off the system.

Built-in Speaker

77..

The internal speakers provide true stereo sound.

System Status Indicator Panel

88..

The system status indicator panel keeps you informed of the
computer’s operating status.

Indicates that the computer is accessing the hard disk drive.

Indicates that the computer is accessing the CD-ROM drive.

Indicates that the keyboard is in Num Lock mode.

Indicates when the keyboard is in Caps Lock mode. In this
mode, the keyboard produces uppercase text when you press a
key. When you press the Caps Lock key again, the indicator
goes off and the keyboard produces lowercase text.

Indicates when the keyboard is in Scroll Lock mode. Some
applications will move information across the screen
differently when Scroll Lock is on.

5

TouchPad

99..

The TouchPad is hardware-compatible with the IBM PS/2 mouse and
software-compatible with the Microsoft mouse.

.

TouchPad Buttons

1100.

The buttons below the TouchPad correspond to the left and right
buttons on a standard mouse. The PS/2 compatible mouse will work
with the DeskNote TouchPad simultaneously.

.

Power LED Indicators

1111.

These two LED indicators are separately
programmed for the following functions: Power on
and Suspend mode.

Power On

This indicator will lit when the DeskNote is powered on.

Suspend mode

This indicator will lit when the DeskNote is in suspend mode.

The Front

The CD-ROM/DVD-ROM/CD-RW Drive

11..

Your DeskNote comes with a swappable 24X (or higher) 5.25" IDE
CD-ROM or 8X DVD-ROM or CD-RW drive.

6

The Right Side

USB Ports

11..

Your computer includes four Universal Serial Bus (USB) port. USB
is the latest development in Plug and Play technology.

It will eventually replace the need for separate connectors for external
keyboards, serial ports, and parallel (printer) port.

The Left Side

TV Out Connector

11..

You can connect an external television via the TV out connector.

Infrared Data Port

22..

The Infrared Data Port allows your DeskNote to become truly
wireless.

You can use this port to transfer large amounts of data very quickly to
any other machine (DeskNote computers, printers, etc.), which is also
equipped with an IrDA-compliant IR port. This allows you to print
documents without any inconvenient cable hookups.

7

Headphone\SPDIF Jack

33..

This is for headphone output. You can plug an external headphone
into your DeskNote.

S/PDIF engine receives the digital format data from either DVD­ROM or CD-ROM, regroup the date to be synchronous signal and de­multiplexes audio and other digital data.

External Microphone Jack

44..

This mono microphone jack is used to connect an external
microphone.

Modem Port

55..

You will able to connect your computer to your phone line through
this port.

CCaauuttiioonn::

outlet before servicing or disassembling this equipment. To
reduce the risk of fire use only No. 26 AWG or larger
telecommunication line cord.

LAN Port

66..

Always disconnect all telephone lines from the wall

This port provides a standard RJ-45 connection with an existing
network via a network cable.

The Rear Side

DC IN Connector

11..

Plug the AC adapter into this connector. Refer to Chapter Two,
Connecting to a Power Source for more information.

8

Kensington Lock

22..

Your computer includes a keyhole to be used with a standard
Kensington lock. You can connect the DeskNote lock to a large
object with the Kensington lock to prevent theft of your DeskNote.

Cooling Fan Vent

33..

This fan prevents the DeskNote CPU and other internal components
from becoming overheated. Keep this fan unobstructed to allow
proper ventilation to the DeskNote's internal components.

Parallel Port

44..

This port allows you to easily connect a parallel printer or plotter
using this 25-pin bi-directional female port.

Serial Port

55..

This port is used to connect RS-232 serial devices to the DeskNote.
Three types of serial devices are external mice, serial printers, and
fax/modems.

External CRT Port

66..

This port allows you to easily connect an external VGA/SVGA
display monitor into your DeskNote using the 15-pin female
connector.

9

The Bottom

Cooling Fan Vent

11..

This fan prevents the DeskNote CPU and other internal components
from becoming overheated. Keep this fan unobstructed to allow
proper ventilation to the DeskNote's internal components.

Expansion Compartment

22..

This compartment house the DIMM module.

Hard Disk Drive Compartment

33..

Your computer includes a 2.5-inch IDE hard disk drive (9.5mm in
height) with 10GB or more storage capability. The DeskNote BIOS
automatically detects IDE drive types.

10

Preparing the DeskNote for Transport

To prepare the computer for transport, you should first disconnect all
peripherals. Make sure the computer is turned off before you do this.
After disconnecting all peripherals, close the rear port covers to
protect the connectors. The DeskNote hard disk head is self-parking.
This means that the DeskNote can be directly turned off from the
DOS prompt.

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