Epson America makes no representations or warranties,
either express or implied by or with respect to anything in
this manual, and shall not be liable for any implied
warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular
purpose or for any indirect special, or consequential
damages Some states do not allow the exclusion of
incidental or consequential damages so this exclusion may
not apply to you.
COPYRIGHT NOTICE
All rights reserved No part of this publication may be
reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in
any form or by any means electronic, mechanical,
photocopying recording or otherwise, without the prior
written permission of Epson America, Inc. No patent
liability is assumed with respect to the use of information
contained herein Nor is any liability assumed for damages
resulting from the use of the information contained herein.
Further, this publication and features described herein are
subject to change without notice.
TRADEMARKS
EPSON is a registered trademark of Seiko Epson
Corporation.
ActionNote, ActionPoint, and ActionPort are trademarks of
Epson America, Inc
EPSON Connection is a service mark of Epson America, Inc
General notice: Other product names used herein are for
identification purposes only and may be trademarks of
their respective owners EPSON disclaims any and all rights
in those marks
As an ENERGY STAR
this product meets the ENERGY STAR guidelines
Read all of these instructions and save them for later
reference. Follow all warnings and instructions marked on
the computer and AC power adapter.
Turn off the computer before cleaning. Clean with a
damp cloth only. Do not spill liquid on the computer.
Use only the type of power source indicated on the
computer’s label.
Avoid using outlets on the same circuit as photocopiers
or air control systems that regularly switch on and off.
Do not let the computer’s power cord become damaged
or frayed
If you use an extension cord with the computer, make
sure the total Amp rating of the devices plugged into the
extension cord does not exceed the cord’s Amp rating
Make sure the total of all devices plugged into the wall
outlet does not exceed 15 Amps
Except as specifically explained in this User’s Guide, do
not attempt to service the computer yourself.
Unplug the computer and refer servicing to qualified
service personnel if the power cord or plug is damaged;
if liquid has entered the computer; if the computer has
been dropped or the cabinet damaged; or if the
computer does not operate normally or exhibits a
distinct change in performance. Adjust only those
controls that are covered by the operating instructions
When traveling by airplane,be sure to take your
computer into the passenger compartment as carry-on
luggage to prevent it from being stored in an
unpressurized storage area.
If you plan to use the computer in Germany, observe the
following:
To provide adequate short-circuit protection and overcurrent protection for this computer, the building
installation must be protected by a 16 Amp circuit
breaker.
iii
Page 4
I m p o r t a n t e s I n s t r u c t i o n s d e
Sécurité
Lire attentivement les instructions sulvantes et les
conserver pour les consulter en cas de besoin. Observer
soigneusement tous les avertissements et directives
marques sur l’ordinateur et I’adaptateur secteur.
Débrancher l’ordinateur avant de le nettoyer. N’utiliser
qu’un chiffon humide. Veiller à ne pas renverser de
liquides sur l’appareil.
Utiliser seulement le type de source d’alimentation
électrique indiqué sur l’étiquette.
Ne jamais utiliser une prise sur le même circuit qu’un
appareil à photocopies ou un systéme de contrôle de
ventilation avec commutation marche-arrêt
automatique.
S’assurer que le cordon d’allmentation de l’ordinateur
n’est pas abîmé ni effiloché.
Dans le cas où on utilise un cordon de rallonge avec
l'ordinateur, s’assurer que l’intensité en ampères requise
pour tous les apparells branches sur ce cordon n'est pas
supérieure à la capacité du cordon. Sassurer aussi que
cette intensité ne dépasse jamais la somme de
15 ampères pour l’ensemble des apparells branchés sur
la prise secteur.
Sauf dans les cas spécifiques expliqués dons ce manuel
de l’usager, ne pas essayer d’entretenir ou de réparer
l'ordinateur soi-même.
Débrancher l’ordinateur et contacter un technicien
qualifié dans les circonstances suivantes:
Si le cordon ou la prise sont abîmés; un liquide a
pénétré à l’intérieur de l’appareil; si on a laissé tomber
l’appareil ou si le boîtier est endommagé; si l’ordinateur
ne fonctionne pas normalement ou fonctionne d'une
manière très différente de l’ordinaire. N’ajuster que les
commandes décrites dans les directives.
Pour les voyagespar avion, prendre l’ordinateur avec
soi dans la cabine comme bagage à main, pour éviter
qu’il soit transport6 dans une soute non pressurisée.
Pour utiliser l’ordinateur en Allemagne, il est nécessaire
que le batiment soit mum d’un disjoncteur de
16 ampéres pour protéger l’ordinateur contre les courtscircuits et le survoltage.
iv
Page 5
W i c h t i g e S i c h e r h e i t s c h i n w e i s e
Bitte lesen Sie diese Sicherheitshinweise, und heben Sie sich
zur späteren Verwendung auf. Beachten Sie alle
Warnungen und Anweisungen, die auf dem Computer und
dem Wechselstromadapter angebracht sind.
Schalten Sie den Computer vor der Reinigung aus.
Verwenden Sie zur Reinigung nur ein sau beres Tuch
Achten Sie darauf, daß keine FIüssigkeiten auf dem
Computer verschüttet werden.
Verwenden Sie nur die auf dem Typenschild des
Computers angegebene Stromversorgung.
Schließen Sie den Computer nicht an denselben
Stromkreis an wie Fotokopiergeräte oder Klimaanlagen,
die sich regelmäßig ein- und ausschalten.
Achten Sie darauf, daß das Netzka bel des Computers
stets in einwandfreiem Zustand ist.
Stellen Sie bei Verw enduna eines Verlängerunaska bels
sicher, daß der gesamte Amperewert aller an das
Verlängerunaskabel angeschlossenen Geräte den
zulässign Höchstwert des Kabels nicht überschreitet.
Stellen Sie ferner sicher, daß der Gesamtwert aller an
die Wandsteckdose angeschlossenen Geräte 15 Ampere
nicht überschreitet.
Führen Sie keine Wartungsarbeiten am Computer
durch, die über das im Benutzerhandbuch beschriebene
Ausmaß hinausgehen.
Ziehen Sie den Computer heraus, und rufen Sie
qualifiziertes Wartungspersonal, wenn eine der
folgenden Bedingungen auftritt:
Das Netzkabel oder der Netzstecker ist beschädigt;
Flüssigkeit ist in den Computer eingetreten; der
Computer wurde fallengelassen oder das Gehäuse ist
beschädigt; der Computer funktioniert nicht
ordnungsgemäß oder die Leistung hat sich merklich
geändert Stellen Sie nur die Bedienelemente ein, die in
der Gebrauchsanweisung beschrieben sind.
Nehmen Sie den computer bei Flugreisen als
Handgepäck
einem drucklosen Frachtraum verstaut wird.
Beachten Sie den folgenden Hinweis, wenn Sie den
Computer in Deutschland in Betrieb nehmen:
Beim Anschluß des Computers an die Netzversorgung
muß sichergestellt werden, daß die Gebäudeinstallation
mit einem 16 Ampere Überstromschutzschalter
abgesichert ist.
mit
in den Fluggastraum, damit er nicht in
V
Page 6
FCC COMPLIANCE STATEMENT
FOR AMERICAN USERS
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with
the limits for a class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of
the FCC Rules These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a
residential installation This equipment generates uses, and
can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed
used in accordance with the instructions may cause
harmful interference to radio and television reception.
However, there is no guarantee that interference will not
occur in a particular installation If this equipment does
cause interference to radio and television reception, which
can be determined by turning the equipment off and on,
the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by
and
one or more of the following measures
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna
Increase the separation between the equipment and
receiver
Connect the equipment into an
different from that to which the receiver is connected
outlet on
a circuit
Consult an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
WARNING
The connection of a nonshielded equipment interface
cable to this equipment will invalidate the FCC
Certification of thisdevice and may cause interference
levels that exceed the limits established by the FCC for this
equipment. It is the responsibility of the user to obtain and
use a shielded equipment interface cable with this device. If
this equipment has more than one interface connector, do
not leave cables connected to unused interfaces
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the
manufacturer could void the user’s authority tooperate the
equipment.
FOR CANADlAN USERS
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for
radio noise emissions from digital apparatus as set out in
the radio interference regulations of the Canadian
Department of Communications
Le present apparell numérique n'émet pas
radioélectriques dépassant les limites applicables aux
appareils numériques de Classe B prescrites
réglement sur le brouillage radioélectrique édicté par le
Ministére des Communications
du
Canada.
de
dans
bruits
le
vi
Page 7
Contents
1 Getting Started
Opening Your Computer
Powering Your Computer
Connecting the AC Power Adapter
Turning the Computer On and Off ..............
Checking the Indicator Lights ....................
Adjusting the Screen Controls
Using the ActionPoint Touchpad
Learning More About ActionPoint
Using the Keyboard
Using the Fn Key
Using the Embedded Numeric Keypad
Creating Software Diskettes
computer is all set
up and ready to use. This chapter gives you
the information you need to get started. You’ll
find a list of the computer’s features on the
back cover of this manual, illustrations of
your system on the inside front cover, and a
place to write important information about
your ActionNote on the inside back cover.
Before you start, take a look at the
“ActionNote Adventure” and fill out the
attached registration card.
If you haven’t chosen an operating system yet,
please see the instruction sheet “Choosing
Your Operating System.”
If you have questions, this manual or the
online version should provide you with
answers. Read the troubleshooting
information in Chapter 7 or call the EPSON
Connection
SM
at (800) 922-8911 for help.
GettingStarted 1-1
Page 12
Opening Your Computer
To open your ActionNote, slide the latches on
each side of the computer’s lid forward and
lift up the screen.
Powering Your Computer
Your computer is shipped with a charged
battery and is ready to use when you take it
out of the box. However, to keep your battery
charged, use the AC power adapter to connect
your computer to an electrical outlet
whenever possible. For more information, see
Chapter 2, “Powering the Computer.”
1-2 Getting Started
Page 13
Connecting the AC Power Adapter
The lightweight AC power adapter included
with your ActionNote operates in the input
ranges 100 to 240 VAC and 50-60 Hz.
NOTE
If you purchased your computer outside the United
States, you have the international AC power
adapter. See “Using the International AC Power
Adapter” in Appendix B of
more information.
the
online manual for
Follow these steps to connect the AC power
adapter:
1.
Plug the connector into the DC-in port on
the back of the computer.
2.
Flip the adapter’s two prongs out of their
compartment, then plug the adapter into
an electrical outlet.
Getting Started 1-3
Page 14
Recharging the battery takes about 3 hours
with the computer turned on, and about
2 hours when it is turned off. While it
recharges, the charge indicator light is orange.
When the battery is fully charged, it is green.
Turning the Computer On and Off
The on/off button is beneath the screen on
your right.
Press the button to turn on the computer. As
the computer starts, it does a complete self test
of its circuits and drives.
To turn the computer off, press and hold the
button for two seconds. Be sure to save your
work before you turn off the computer.
Checking the Indicator Lights
The indicator lights above the keyboard give
you information about your computer.
1-4 Getting Started
Page 15
Adjusting the Screen Controls
The screen contrast and brightness controls
are located at the bottom of the screen.
Slide the contrast control to the right to
increase the contrast, or to the left to decrease
it. On dual scan screens only, slide the
brightness control to the right to lighten the
screen, or to the left to darken it. On active
matrix screens, it isn’t necessary to adjust the
contrast.
Unless you need a bright screen, you can
extend battery life and save energy by
making it dimmer.
1-6 Getting Started
Page 16
Using the ActionPoint Touchpad
You can move your cursor on the screen by
sliding your finger along the built-in
ActionPoint
software application that uses PS/2
compatible mouse drivers, and has a utility
that lets you adjust its response.
To move the cursor, slide your finger along
the ActionPoint touchpad. The cursor moves
only when your finger touches the pad.
To click, gently tap the touchpad once or
quickly press and release the left touchpad
button.
TM
touchpad. It works with any
®
To
select and move an item
(click and drag),
double-tap on the touchpad and then slide
your finger across it. You can also hold down
the left touchpad button while sliding your
finger along the touchpad.
Getting Started 1-7
Page 17
When you reach the edge of the touchpad
surface, the pointer continues to move in the
same direction until you lift or move your
finger. This feature is called. “Edge Motion.”
When software manuals tell you to use your
mouse, use these ActionPoint equivalents:
Touchpad
Click and drag
movements
Mouse
Click
Double-click
Drag
Select
Right mouse button
ActionPoint
Tap
Double-tap
Slide
Double-tap, slide
Tap
Right touchpad button
Learning More About ActionPoint
For information about changing the speed
and sensitivity of your touchpad, see
“Customizing Your ActionPoint” in Chapter 6.
You can also access the online help in the
ActionPoint Configuration utility (Mouse
utility in Windows 95).
1-8 Getting Started
Page 18
Using the Keyboard
Your computer’s keyboard has 85 keys that
provide the same functions as a full-sized
101-key keyboard, thanks to function keys and
an embedded numeric keypad. The Fn key
provides a second function for other keys.
The keyboard on the ActionNote is available
with different layouts for different languages.
You can also use the operating system to
reassign the layout of your keyboard. See your
operating system documentation.
Using the Fn Key
To use special functions, hold down the Fn key
and then press the second key. A key’s special
function is labeled in blue.
Fn key functions
Key
Fn F8
Fn F9 Invert
Fn F10
Label
Set Up
Display
Function
Displays the Power Management screen
Toggles between normal and reverse
video (passive matrix only)
Toggles between displaying the image
on the LCD, external monitor, or both
I
Getting Started 1-9
Page 19
Using the Embedded Numeric Keypad
In Num Lock mode, the keys in the embedded
numeric keypad give you the number or
symbol for that key instead of the letter.
Press Num Lock to turn Num Lock mode on
and off. To enter a letter while in Num Lock,
press Fn plus the key. With Num Lock off, you
can enter a number or symbol on the numeric
keypad by pressing Fn plus the key.
Creating Software Diskettes
Your computer came with software installed;
the program diskettes are not included.
However, you may need the diskettes to set up
a new printer or re-install a program. You
have utilities that let you create these
diskettes. See the instruction sheet “Choosing
Your Operating System.”
1-10 Getting Started
Page 20
2 Powering the
Computer
This chapter describes how to conserve your
computer’s battery and save energy using the
power management tools supplied.
Using the AC Power Adapter
The AC power adapter charges the battery
and runs the computer off power from an
electrical outlet. Use the adapter whenever
you have access to an outlet, especially when
you are using a PC card.
Check the charge indicator light to monitor
charging status when you use the adapter.
Battery charging
Light
Orange
Green
Flashing orange
status
Status
Battery is charging normally
Battery is fully charged
Battery is not installed properly or is
damaged; try reinstalling it
If you plan to use the computer in countries
other than the U.S. or Canada, you’ll need to
purchase the international AC power adapter.
EPSON also offers an automobile adapter. See
Powering the Computer 2-1
Page 21
“Using the International AC Power Adapter”
and ‘Using the Automobile Adapter” in
Appendix B of the online manual for more
information.
CAUTION
To avoid damaging the computer, use only adapters
designed for the ActionNote 900 series computers.
Using the Battery
The removable NiMH battery can provide
between 4 and 6 hours of power when you use
your computer’s power management features.
How long the battery lasts depends on how
you use the computer. It consumes more
power when you do the following:
Use a bright screen display
Access the drives often
Use a PC card.
Your operating system may provide ways to
view your battery’s status and additional
power management features. Check your
operating system documentation.
2-2 Powering the Computer
Page 22
Recharging the Battery
The battery that comes with your system is
rechargeable. It takes approximately 2 hours
to charge a completely discharged battery
when the computer is off or when it is in
Suspend mode. If you use the system while the
battery is recharging, it can take up to 3 hours.
If you find that over time the battery is losing
its charge faster, the battery life may be
reaching its end. Try letting it discharge
completely; then recharge it. You can also use
the optional external battery charger to
recondition the battery.
Replacing the Battery
If you have additional batteries, keep them
fully charged so you can replace your battery
when it runs low. This is especially useful
when you’re traveling.
CAUTION
Use only the NiMH batterypack designed for the
ActionNote 900 series computers.
You can use the optional external battery
charger to charge an extra battery while
using another one in your computer. See
“Using the Battery HyperCharger/
Powering the Computer 2-3
Page 23
Conditioner” in Appendix B of the online
manual for more information.
NOTE
Contact your localgovernment waste management
agency for recycling information on rechargeable
batteries.
Follow these steps to replace the battery:
1.
Save any open files and close your
applications. Shut down or exit Windows.
2.
Press the on/off button.
3.
Close the screen and turn the computer
over.
CAUTION
To avoid a short, do not touch the battery
contacts with metal objects.
4.
Press the battery release lever, then lift the
battery up and out of the case.
2-4 Powering the Computer
Page 24
5.
Insert the new battery into the
compartment at an angle and then lower
it into place.
Using Power Management
Your ActionNote offers a variety of power
management features to help you conserve
battery power. Your computer has three
power-saving modes: Idle, Standby, and
Suspend. These modes progressively reduce
computer functions and save battery life by
turning off various system components when
they are not in use, as described in the
following table:
Power saving modes
Mode
System idle
system
standby
system
suspend
Description
CPU clock speed reduced
CPU clock speed further reduced, screen
backlight turned off, hard disk drive and
other components in low power state
CPU clock stopped, screen and hard disk
drive turned off, and other components
suspended
The screen, diskette drive, hard disk drive, and
ports also have their own independent
timeout periods, and the screen backlight
turns off whenever you close the cover. You
can access the Power Management screen at
any time by pressing Fn F8.
Powering the Computer 2-5
Page 25
You can press the Suspend/Resume button
(located between the brightness and contrast
controls) at any time to enter Suspend mode
and temporarily stop system activity. After
you press Suspend/Resume, it takes a moment
for the computer to enter Suspend mode. Then
the Suspend indicator light comes on and the
screen becomes dark.
NOTE
In operating
background tasks, the system may appear to be
inactive when it is performing one of these tasks.
Check this possibility before pressing
Suspend/Resume.
systems
where you can perform
With a fully charged battery, the computer
can remain in Suspend mode for several hours
without losing data. To resume activity, press
the Suspend/Resume button again.
Low Battery Protection
The ActionNote’s power management
features protect your data when the battery
runs low. When you have only a few minutes
of power left, the power indicator light flashes
and the computer beeps. At this point, you
should immediately save your data and
2-6 Powering the Computer
Page 26
either connect the AC power adapter or turn
off the computer and replace the battery (as
described earlier in this chapter).
In addition, the computer can be set up to
enter Suspend mode when the battery power
reaches a minimum level. This protects the
contents of your computer’s memory for
several hours.
You can also configure your ActionNote to
save your data to the hard disk drive
whenever your battery power reaches a
minimum level. With this configuration, the
memory contents are saved on the hard disk
drive and protected indefinitely.
To resume activity where you left off after
saving to disk, replace your battery and press
the on/off button.
Your ActionNote also provides a similar
Instant On feature. When you set up your
computer to use Instant On, you can press the
Suspend/Resume button to save your data
and turn off the power at the same time. To
start up again “instantly” (without reloading
your operating system or software
applications), simply press the on/off button.
Powering the Computer 2-7
Page 27
For instructions on setting up your ActionNote
to use the Save to Disk and Instant On
features, see “Using Instant On and Saving to
Disk” in Chapter 6.
Using Energy Wisely
By purchasing this Energy Star compliant
computer, you join a growing number of users
concerned about conserving energy. Here are
a few energy-saving tips:
When using a printer and external
monitor, check to see if they are Energy
Star compliant. If not, turn them off when
you’re not using them.
Use the print preview option in your
software before you print something.
You’ll be able to catch formatting errors
before you commit them to paper.
If you have an electronic mail system
available to you, send E-mail rather than
memos. Not only is this faster, but you’ll
save paper and storage space too.
Use recycled paper and recycle your used
paper whenever you can.
2-8 Powering the Computer
Page 28
3 Getting to Work
This chapter contains practical information
about using your ActionNote. Reading it now
can save you time later.
Using Passwords
Passwords help protect data from theft. Your
ActionNote offers two types of passwords: a
Setup password that controls access to the
Setup utility, and a System password that
controls access to your computer.
For details on setting both types of passwords,
see “Setting a Password” in Chapter 6.
NOTE
The passwords described here are not related
password you may set through
system.
your
operating
to the
Getting to Work 3-1
Page 29
Entering a Password
Whether the computer is configured with a
System or Setup password, you enter the
password in the same way. When you turn on
your system (for the System password) or
access Setup (for the Setup password), you see
this prompt:
Enter password:
Type the correct password and press Enter. To
protect your password, the screen does not
display the characters you type,
If you type the password incorrectly, the
computer repeats the password prompt.
Try typing the password again. The computer
allows you three tries to enter it correctly. If
you don’t enter a System password correctly,
the system locks up. Turn off the computer,
wait 30 seconds, and try again. If you don’t
enter a Setup password correctly, the
computer loads the operating system without
letting you access Setup. See “Using Password
Security” in Chapter 6 for more information.
3-2 Getting to Work
Page 30
Using Diskettes
You can use either 720KB double-density or
1.44MB high-density, double-sided diskettes in
your 35-inch, 1.44MB diskette drive.
To insert a diskette, hold it with the label
facing up and the shutter leading into the
drive. Slide it all the way into the drive.
To remove the diskette, make sure the diskette
drive light is off. Then press the release button
and pull out the diskette.
CAUTION
Never remove a diskette or reset or turn off the
computer while the diskette drive is being accessed;
you could lose data. Also, be sure to remove the
diskette before you turn off the computer.
Getting to Work 3-3
Page 31
Resetting the Computer
Occasionally, when the computer doesn’t
respond, you may need to reset it. Resetting
clears the memory and reloads the operating
system.
To reset the computer, hold down the Ctrl key
and press the Alt and Del keys simultaneously.
Then follow any instructions you see.
Working Comfortably
It’s easy to spend a lot of time working on the
computer. But too much work time without a
break can cause repetitive motion strain on
your hands and arms. Follow these
suggestions to relieve strain:
Your ActionNote is ergonomically
designed with a palm rest and embedded
ActionPoint touchpad. Try to take
advantage of these while you’re working.
If you do a lot of typing, avoid wrist strain
by resting your forearms on an arm rest
or other surface while you type.
Keep your fingers relaxed, and don’t press
too hard on the keys.
Remove your hands from the keyboard
when you are not typing take frequent
breaks, and stretch your fingers.
3-4 Getting to Work
Page 32
4 Caring for Your
Computer
Although it has been built for years of use,
your ActionNote contains fragile circuits and
needs to be handled with care to keep it in
good working order:
Keep the computer and AC power adapter
dry, and do not subject them to extreme
heat or cold.
To prevent damage to the LCD, do not
place external devices on top of the
computer, even when it is closed.
When you are not using the serial,
parallel, video ports, or the PC card slots,
keep their covers closed to prevent
damage to the pins in the ports.
Be sure you turn off the computer before
you connect devices other than PC cards
that support hot swapping.
Caring for Your Computer 4-1
Page 33
Protecting the Hard Disk Drive
Your hard disk drive is designed for travel and
lots of use. Follow. these precautions, however,
to protect your data and prolong hard disk
life.
Never turn off or reset the computer when
it is copying data to or from the hard disk
drive (the indicator light is on).
Never remove the hard disk drive when
the computer is on.
After turning the power off, wait
20 seconds before moving the computer.
This allows the disks in the drive to stop
spinning and the read/write heads to lock
in place.
Although the hard disk drive is very
reliable, be sure to back up your files
regularly.
4-2 Caring for Your Computer
Page 34
Moving and Storing the
Computer
Before you move your ActionNote, make sure
the power is off and the screen is closed.
Remove any diskettes. Use a carrying case or
equivalent. If you have any devices attached,
make sure they are turned off and unplugged.
The ActionNote has an operating temperature
range of 42 to 95° Fahrenheit, or 5 to
35° Centigrade. You should keep your
computer well within that range to prevent
damage to the computer.
If you will not be using your ActionNote for a
while, store it in a dry place, protected from
dust and moisture.
The ActionNote can tolerate storage
temperatures from - 4 to 140° Fahrenheit, or
-20 to 60° Centigrade. Also, if temperatures
change more quickly than 5° Centigrade per
hour, it may damage your hard disk drive or
screen.
CAUTION
When traveling by air, be sure to take your computer
as carry-on luggage
in an unpressurized storage area.
to
prevent it
Caring for Your Computer 4-3
from
being stored
Page 35
Cleaning Your ActionNote
You may need to clean your ActionNote
occasionally. Clean the exterior with a soft,
damp cloth. Spray glass cleaner on a soft, lintfree cloth to clean the LCD screen; do not
spray the cleaner directly onto the screen.
Cleaning the ActionPoint Touchpad
The ActionPoint is sensitive to moisture, which
may affect your cursor movement. Use a soft,
lint-free cloth to clean the ActionPoint. If you
need something stronger, lightly moisten the
cloth with glass cleaner. Do not spray the
cleaner directly onto the ActionPoint, and
make sure its surface is completely dry before
you use it.
Cleaning the Diskette Drive
It’s a good idea to clean the diskette drive
occasionally. The drive heads are exposed to
magnetic contaminants in the air and on
diskettes. Many diskette manufacturers offer
diskette drive cleaning kits. Just follow the
instructions in the kit.
4-4 Caring for Your Computer
Page 36
5 Upgrading Internal
Components
Several internal components in your
ActionNote can be upgraded, including the
hard disk drive and system memory.
Upgrading the Hard Disk Drive
If you need to remove the existing drive, just
follow the instructions below. You won’t need
any tools.
Your ActionNote supports EPSON-qualified,
IDE hard disk drives with a 2.5-inch form
factor and a maximum height of 19 mm.
Contact the EPSON Connection or your dealer
to find out about the latest upgrade options.
CAUTION
Before you replace your hard disk drive, be sure to
make backup copies of all your files andprograms.
Upgrading Internal Components 5-1
Page 37
Follow these steps to remove the drive:
1.
Turn off the computer and disconnect any
external devices or cables.
2.
Close the LCD screen and turn the
computer over.
3.
Press the latch away from the hard disk
drive cover and slide the cover back
slightly. Then lift the cover off, as shown.
5-2
Upgrading Internal
Components
Page 38
4.
Pull up on the two metal tabs to
disconnect the drive, and remove it from
the case.
5.
If you need to disconnect the connector
card, hold it by the edges and pull it away
from the drive, as shown below.
Upgrading internal Components 5-3
Page 39
Replacing a Hard Disk Drive
Follow these steps to replace a hard disk drive.
If your new drive already has the connector
card attached, start with step 3.
1.
If necessary, attach the connector card.
Align the holes in the card with the group
of 44 pins on the right side of the drive
connector.
Make sure the connector does not cover
the group of four pins on the left side of
the drive connector.
2.
When the holes and pins are properly
aligned, carefully push the card straight
onto the pins, pressing firmly on the card
until it is in place.
5-4 Upgrading Internal Components
Page 40
The hard disk drive compartment on your
ActionNote can accommodate IDE
standard drives up to 19 mm high. If the
drive that came with your computer is
less than 19 mm high, it is installed above
a black foam spacer. If you are going to
install a 19 mm drive, remove the spacer
from the compartment before you
perform step 3.
3.
Insert the drive and card into the drive
compartment, aligning the connector on
the card with the pins in the compartment. Press down on the metal tabs until
the drive is fully seated.
Upgrading Internal Components 5-5
Page 41
4.
Position the drive cover over the
compartment so that the small arrow on
the cover aligns with the first notch in the
latch Lower the cover and then slide it
until it snaps shut.
5.
Before installing the operating system, run
Setup as described under “Customizing
Computer Settings” in Chapter 6 to make
sure the computer recognizes your new
drive.
6.
Then create a 26MB partition on the drive.
See your operating system documentation
for instructions. After you install the
operating system, run PHDISK to configure
the partition. See “Using Instant On and
Saving to Disk” in Chapter 6 for more
information.
5-6 Upgrading Internal Components
Page 42
Removing and Replacing
the Keyboard
You need to remove the keyboard to install
memory. However, you don’t need to
disconnect the keyboard cables.
Removing the Keyboard
Follow these steps to remove the keyboard
Turn off the computer and disconnect the
1.
AC power adapter.
2.
Disconnect any attached external devices
and cables.
3.
Open the screen as wide as you can.
4.
Remove the plastic caps on both sides of
the case below the screen. Use a small
screwdriver to pry each cap loose and
then slide it off, as shown.
Upgrading Internal Components 5-7
Page 43
5.
Use a small screwdriver to gently pry up
the plastic strip above the keyboard. You
can pry in the center as shown here, or in
front of the left and right hinges.
6.
Lift up the strip and remove it from the
case.
5-8 Upgrading Internal Components
Page 44
7.
Gently lift the keyboard, holding it by the
top edge. Remove it from the case and
place it on a flat surface in front of the
computer. Do not pull on the keyboard
cables.
Replacing the Keyboard
When you are ready to replace the keyboard,
refer to the illustrations in the previous
section as you follow these steps:
1.
Carefully lift up the keyboard and
position it over the case.
2.
Hold the keyboard at a 45° angle and
align it so that the clips on the bottom
edge fit into the case.
3.
Gently lower the top of the keyboard until
it is securely in place. You should not have
to force it. Make sure the flat cables are
not caught under the edge of the
keyboard.
Upgrading Internal Components 5-9
Page 45
The top edge of the keyboard should not
overlap the bronze-colored ledge of the
case. If you have difficulty aligning the
keyboard, try the following approach:
hold the top of the keyboard in the center.
With the keyboard at a 45° angle, line up
the clips on the bottom of the keyboard
with the case. Gently lift up the keyboard
until the clips are aligned.
4.
Position the plastic strip above the
keyboard then push it back until it snaps
into place. The strip fits tightly but should
not obstruct the function keys.
5.
Slide the plastic caps over the screws on
each side of the case and snap them into
position Make sure you use the correct
cap for the left or right side; they do not
slide into place on the wrong side.
After you have replaced the keyboard, check
that the keys operate smoothly. If any of the
keys stick, press back again on the plastic strip
under each hinge cover and in the center of
the plastic strip. If the keys still stick, repeat
the keyboard replacement procedure.
5-10 Upgrading Internal Components
Page 46
Upgrading Your Memory
Your ActionNote has 8MB of memory on the
system board, and a socket in which you can
install a 4, 8, or 16MB snap-in memory module.
If you are using Instant On or Save to Disk,
you will need to rerun the PHDISK utility after
you have changed the amount of memory. See
Chapter 6 for more information.
CAUTION
A memory module is delicate and needs careful
handling. If you don’t fee/ confident installing it
yourself, ask your Authorized EPSON Servicer for
assistance.
Removing a Memory Module
Your computer may have a memory module
installed. If you want to replace it with a
higher-capacity module, follow the steps
below to remove the original memory module.
If it doesn’t have a module installed, see the
next section, “Installing a Memory Module,” to
install one.
1.
Remove the keyboard as described in the
previous section.
Upgrading Internal Components 5-11
Page 47
Press each of the retaining clips toward
2.
the side of the memory module socket and
lift up on the edge of the module until it is
released.
Pull the module out of the socket. You are
3.
now ready to install the new memory
module.
Installing a Memory Module
Follow these steps to install the new memory
module:
CAUTION
Computer memory modules are sensitive to static
electricity. Ground yourself by touching a metal
surface before you touch the memory module. Keep
it safe inside
ready
while you install it.
5-12 Upgrading Internal Components
its
anti-static packaging
to install it. Remain
until you are
as
stationary as possible
Page 48
1.
Holding the memory module with the
notch on the upper right corner, align it
with the connector at the edge of the
socket.
2.
Insert the memory module into the socket
at an angle, pressing along the edge until
it clicks into place.
3.
Press down on the module until it snaps
into the retaining clips on the sides.
4.
Replace the keyboard as described in the
previous section.
5.
Run Setup, as described under
“Customizing Computer Settings” in
Chapter 6, to make sure your computer
recognizes the new memory. (When you
turn on the computer, it will warn you of
a memory size mismatch)
Upgrading Internal Components 5-13
Page 49
6 Customizing Your
Computer
You can customize your ActionNote in a
variety of ways covered in this chapter.
Customizing Your ActionPoint
You can adjust the amount of pressure you
need to apply to your touchpad as well as the
speed and precision of the cursor movement.
Select the ActionPoint Configuration control
panel utility (the Mouse utility in
Windows 95). Then use the table below to
change your settings,
ActionPoint configuration
Panel
Pointer
settings
Features
Color and
size
Pointer
growth
Pointer tails
Customizing Your Computer 6-1
panels
Description
Lets you choose from nine
pointers in three color
schemes and three sizes
When enabled, medium or
large pointers grow to the
selected size while moving,
and shrink back to a small
size while at rest
When enabled, ghost
images follow the pointer to
increase visibility on LCD
screens; you can also adjust
tail length
Page 50
ActionPoint configuration panels (continued)
Panel
notion
settings
Orientation Set rotation
settings
Shortcuts
settings
Touchpad
settings
FeaturesDescription
SensitivityAdjusts the response of the
Sets the pointer to jump to
a predefined location
whenever a dialog box
opens
Sets the pointer to jump to
a predefined location when
you press a key combination
keyboard and mouse actions
Lets you extend cursor
motion when your finger
reaches the edge of the
touchpad
Controls how much finger
pressure you must apply
before the touchpad
responds
Lets the touchpad
recognize several tapping
gestures that replace right
or left mouse button clicks
6-2 Customizing Your Computer
Page 51
To select a setting click the button for that
setting, then adjust the controls.
When you’ve made changes, click OK to exit.
Your settings take effect immediately.
NOTE
If you install another pointing device and
to return to the ActionPoint, you need to reinstall
the ActionPoint drivers. Type the following
commands at the MS-DOS prompt:
CD\SYNTOUCH
INSTALL
then want
Customizing Computer Settings
Setup configures your ActionNote and stores
the settings in the computer’s CMOS ROM
(read-only memory). Because this area of
memory is backed up by a battery, it is not
erased when you turn off or reset the computer.
The current configuration is probably fine for
most of your needs. However, you may need to
run Setup when you upgrade your computer
or connect new equipment. You can also run
Setup to customize power management.
Customizing
Your Computer
6-3
Page 52
Starting Setup
To start Setup, turn on your computer. (If your
computer is already on, save any files you’ve
been working on, then restart your computer
using Ctrl Alt Del.)
During power-on diagnostics you see the
following prompt:
Press F8 to run
SETUP
As soon as you see this message, press F8.
If you do not press F8 within 5 seconds, the
computer loads the operating system. You can
restart the computer and try again.
Changing the Settings
When the computer starts Setup, you see the
Page 1 screen, which displays your computer’s
memory configuration in addition to other
settings you can change. Base memory plus
extended memory is total system memory.
Use the right, left, down, and up arrow keys to
move the cursor from option to option. Once
you have highlighted an option you want to
change, press the + or - key or the spacebar to
scroll through the settings and select the one
you want. Press PgDn or PgUp to go to the next
or previous Setup screen.
6-4 Customizing Your Computer
Page 53
Help information is available for each option.
Highlight the option and press F1 to get Help.
Setup lets you change or verify the settings
listed in the following tables.
Setup page 1 options
Setting
system
Time
system
Date
Update
Flash
Hard Disk
CPU SpeedFast*
Quick Boot Disabled*
Boot DriveC:, A
Password
Security
Boot
Display
OptionsDescription
hh:mm:ss (24Sets the time used by the
hour format)
mmm dd, yyyySets the date used by the
Enabled
Disabled*
AutoSets the type of drive
(automatically
detected)*
User
None
Slow
Enabled
A:, C*
Disabled*
Enabled
Setup*
System
Auto*
Simul
system
system
Lets you upgrade your BIOS
from a diskette
installed or allows you to
define the type
Sets the processor speed
Lets you skip non-essential
diagnostic tests at startup
Sets the drive from which
the operating system will
be loaded at startup
See ‘Using Password
Security” below
Applies password
protection to entire system
or Setup only
Sets the display mode at
startup; Auto lets the
system select the LCD
screen or monitor (if
connected); Simul displays
on both
*Default setting
Customizing Your Computer 6-5
Page 54
The table below lists the power management
options. Additional information follows.
Power management options
Setting
Power
Management
System IdleDisabled
systemDisabled
Standby
system
Suspend1 to 15
Hard DiskDisabled
Timeout
ScreenDisabled
Timeout
Low Battery
Instant OnEnabled
Serial
Timeout
Parallel
Timeout
FDD
Timeout
Options
Enabled
Disabled
Enabled*
1 to 15
minutes;
2 minutes*
Disabled
minutes;
10 minutes*
1 to 15
minutes;
5 minutes*
1 to15
minutes;
2 minutes*
Suspend*
Save to HDD
Disabled
Disabled*
Enabled*
Disabled
Enabled*
Disabled
Enabled*
Disabled
Description
Lets you enable power
management at all times
or disable it completely
Lets you disable the Idle
mode
Lets you disable or set the
period or inactivity
before the Standby mode
takes effect
Lets you disable or set the
period of inactivity
(following Standby)
before Suspend
Lets you disable or set the
period of inactivity
before the hard disk drive
turns off
Lets you disable or set the
period of inactivity
before the screen turns off
See "Customizing Power
Management" below
See "Customizing Power
Management" below
Enables or disables power
reduction when serial
device is inactive
Enables or disables power
reduction when parallel
device is inactive
Enables or disables power
reduction when diskette
drive is inactive
*Default setting
6-6 Customizing Your Computer
Page 55
The table below lists the page 3 Setup options.
Setup page 3 options
SettingOptions
InternalEnabled*
Cache
External
Cache
Serial Port 1
Serial Port 2
Parallel
Port**
Audio
Audio IRQ 5
PointingEnabled*Lets you disable the built-in
DeviceDisabledtouchpad, in case you connect a
Block IDE
Serial Port 2 IR*
* Default setting
** Autodetects ECP or EPP devices when connected and
turned on
Disabledinternal cache operation
Enabled*
Disabledexternal cache operation when
3F8h*Assigns the address for the
2F8h
3E8h
2E8h
Disabled
3F8h
2F8h*second serial port (either the IR
3E8h
2E8h
Disabled
278h*
378h
3BCh
Disabled
220h*
230h
240h
250h
Disabled
7
9*
10
Enabled
Disabledtransfers, if your hard disk drive
Replicator Serial Port 2
at
system
Description
Controls the processor’s
Controls the processor’s
external cache is installed
serial port on the computer or
serial port 1 on the replicator
Assigns the address for the
device or serial port 2 on the
replicator)
Assigns the parallel port address
Identifies the address setting
the audio card uses
Identifies the IRQ setting the
audio card uses
serial mouse
Enables support for block mode
supports it
Lets you define the operation of
start-up
Customizing Your Computer 6-7
Page 56
When you are ready to exit Setup, press Esc.
You see the exit menu. Press one of the
following keys:
Setup,
exit
command keys
Key
Esc
F4
F5
F6
Description
Returns you to the main Setup or Power
Management Setup screen
Saves your new settings and restarts the computer
Loads the default settings for all the options and
returns to Setup
Exits Setup without saving your settings
Customizing Power Management
In addition to the timeout options listed
above, you can also press one of the following
function keys to your timeout options.
Function key Description
F2
F3
Selects Maximum Performance mode;
maximizes system performance in all
power management states, but allows
some features to power down
Selects Maximum Battery mode;
minimizes battery usage and decreases
system performance in low power states
I
6-8 Customizing Your Computer
Page 57
You may want to experiment to find the
settings that work best for you. You can access
the Power Management screen (without
running Setup) by pressing Fn F8, so you can
adjust your settings at any time.
You should, however, exercise caution when
changingthe Power Management and LOW
Battery options. These features protect your
data when your battery is about to run out.
For more information about how your power
management features work, see “Using Power
Management” in Chapter 2.
Using Instant On and Saving to Disk
The LOW Battery option in Setup allows you
to select suspend or Save to HDD, which
perform the following functions:
Mode
Suspend
Save to HDD
Description
The computer continues to use a very
small amount of power. If you select
Suspend ad leave your system
suspended, the battery eventually runs
down and your data will be lost.
Contents of your system and video
memory are saved to a special partition on
your hard disk drive. Even if your battery
runs down and the computer is turned off,
your data is protected.
Customizing Your Computer 6-9
Page 58
Instant On works through the same process as
Save to HDD, except that your data is saved to
disk when you press the Suspend/Resume
button. Before you can use either of these
features, you have to configure your hard disk
drive.
The drive is already partitioned to set aside a
26MB area for the saved data (allowing space
for all memory configurations). This area is
invisible to your software, and the amount of
disk space available to you for normal data
storage is reduced.
The PHDISK program formats the partition on
your hard disk drive. After you run this
program, you can use the Save to Disk and
Instant On functions available on the Power
Management screen. These options take effect
immediately. You might need to run this
utility again if you change the memory size.
Run the PHDISK utility program by typing the
following commands at the DOS prompt:
CD\PM
PHDISK/CREATE
If you install a new hard disk drive, run FDISK
or the operating system’s installation program
to create a 26MB partition. After you install
the operating system, run PHDISK to configure
the partition.
6-10 Customizing Your Computer
Page 59
Using Password Security
This section tells you how to set up a password
to prevent unauthorized people from using
your ActionNote.
NOTE
Remember
cannot access your system unless you
correctly. Write down yourpassword and keep it in a
safe place. If you forget it, call the EPSON
Connection for assistance.
You can set two types of passwords for your
computer: a system password and a Setup
password.
If you set a system password, the computer
prompts you to enter it each time you turn on
or reset your computer. If you set a Setup
password, the computer prompts you to enter
it each time you press F8 to run Setup.
that
once
you set a system password, you
enter it
Follow the instructions in the next sections to
set, delete, or change your password See
“Entering a Password” in Chapter 3 for
information on using a password.
Customizing Your Computer 6-11
Page 60
Setting a Password
Follow these steps to set a password
Highlight the Password option.
1.
Press
2.
3.
Enter.
Type a password up to seven characters
long. As you type, you see only symbols
displayed on the screen. Note whether
Num Lock and Caps Lock are on when
you type your password.
4.
Press
Enter.
Type the password again and press
5.
(If you enter an incorrect password, you
must start the process over again. Keep
trying until you have entered the
password correctly twice in a row.)
6.
Press any key to continue. The Password
option setting is enabled
7.
You can now highlight the Security option
and select SETUP, which applies the
password to the Setup program. You can
also select SYSTEM. If you select
you are prompted to enter the password
whenever you turn on the computer or
run Setup.
6-12 Customizing Your Computer
Enter.
SYSTEM,
Page 61
Deleting or Changing a Password
If you want to delete or change a password,
follow these steps:
1. Highlight the Password option.
2. Press Enter.
3.
Type your password. You see only squares
on the screen.
4. Press Enter.
5.
If you are deleting your password, press
the I key. The Password option setting is
changed to Disabled.
If you are changing your password, type
the new password. You see only squares
displayed on the screen.
6. Press Enter.
7.
Type the password again and press Enter.
8.
Press any key to continue.
Customizing Your Computer 6-13
Page 62
Using Video Drivers and Utilities
Your system includes high-resolution video
display drivers for Windows® installed on
your hard disk drive. If you are using
Windows 3.1, you can use these drivers to
display in resolutions up to 1024 x 768 in
256 colors on an external monitor.
Windows 95 provides the Chips and
Technology® drivers to do the same thing
To select these drivers, use your operating
system’s video display or control panel utility.
If you select a higher resolution for your LCD
screen, your display is larger than the screen
itself. As you move your cursor up and down
and from side to side, the screen pans to show
the en tire display.
NOTE
Your ActionNote is configured to display in
VGA resolution on your screen or an external
monitor. You can
externalmonitor, or both by pressing
can
also
set the default video mode in Setup; see
“Changing the
toggle
Settings”
between the LCD, the
for more information.
standard
Fn F10. You
6-14 Customizing Your Computer
Page 63
To check on the availability of drivers for nonWindows applications, call the EPSON
Connection or access one of the EPSON
electronic support services, as described under
“Where to Get Help” in Chapter 7.
Using Your Audio Card
The 16-bit stereo audio card in your
ActionNote is Business Audio® and
SoundBlaster 16® compatible. You can connect
an external audio source to the input jack.
This lets you use prerecorded music, voice, or
other sounds on your computer. Use the builtin microphone or plug in an external
microphone to record your own sounds. Use
the volume control knob to adjust the sound
level.
You can connect headphones, external
speakers, or an amplifier to the audio output
jack for public or private sound production.
Your system also includes a driver and
software. These programs and utilities, located
in the Audio applications group or folder,
perform the following functions:
The Audio Recorder records, compresses,
and plays sounds in .WAV and .AUD
formats.
Customizing Your Computer 6-15
Page 64
Recording Control regulates the recording
level and stereo balance of multiple input
sources.
The Mixer combines signals from several
audio sources during playback,
controlling the volume and balance of
each source.
The Extended Recorder records,
compresses, stores, and plays sounds
directly to (or from) your hard disk drive.
The Audio Clip Library provides a variety
of music, phrases, and other sounds, and
lets you add your own sound files.
Additional sound applications are included
with your ActionNote.
For more information about the audio
software, use the Help utility available with
each application.
The following table contains the configuration
settings for your audio card
Audio card configuration
Setting
I/O address
Interrupt (IRQ)
DMA channel
6-16
Customizing
Your Computer
Value
220
9
1
Page 65
Using Your Infrared Port
The IrDA-compliant infrared port provides
“point and beam” wireless serial
communications capability for mobile
computer users, and replaces network, printer,
and other cable connections between IrDA-
compliant devices.
The IrDA infrared data link standard gives
ActionNote users the capability of
transferring data at speeds much faster than
a standard modem. You can exchange and
synchronize data files between your
ActionNote and other notebooks and desktop
PCs, printers, fax machines, network nodes,
and personal digital assistants (PDAs).
To transfer data you must have another IrDAcompliant device and run IrDA software, such
as Puma TranXit.® This software is provided
with your ActionNote.
IrDA devices constantly poll for data and
establish a communications link if they are
within each other’s line of sight. The
technology is similar to a television remote
control. The two infrared ports must be able to
“see” each other at a distance of no more than
three feet and an angle of 30° or less. The
communications software provided with your
Customizing Your Computer 6-17
Page 66
IrDA device indicates when the units are
communicating. See the Puma TranXit online
help for more information.
6-18
Customizing Your Computer
Page 67
7 Troubleshooting
You probably won’t have any problems as
you set up and use your ActionNote. If
anything out of the ordinary happens,
however, see this chapter for help.
Where to Get Help
If you purchased your computer in the United
States or Canada, EPSON provides customer
support and service through a network of
Authorized EPSON Customer Care Centers.
EPSON also provides the following services
when you dial (800) 922-8911.
Technical information on the installation,
configuration, and operation of EPSON
products
Assistance in locating your nearest
Authorized EPSON Reseller or Customer
Care Center
Customer relations
EPSON technical information library fax
service
Product literature on current and new
products.
Troubleshooting 7-1
Page 68
You can purchase printed manuals,
accessories, or parts for EPSON products from
EPSON Accessories. Call (800) 873-7766 (U.S.
sales only) from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Pacific
time. In Canada, call (800)
BUY EPSON.
If you purchased your computer outside the
United States or Canada, contact your EPSON
dealer or the marketing location nearest you
for customer support and service.
If you need help with any software
application program you are using, see the
documentation for that program for technical
support information.
Electronic Support Services
If you have a modem, the fastest way to access
helpful tips, specifications, drivers, application
notes, and bulletins for EPSON products is
through the online services below.
NOTE
To access electronic support services, you must have
a modem. You can use a fax/modem PC card or
connect an external modem to your serial
port.
7-2 Troubleshooting
Page 69
EPSON bulletin board service
You can call the EPSON bulletin board service
(BBS) 24 hours a day at (310) 782-4531. No
membership is required. Make sure your
communications software is set to 8 data bits
with no parity and 1 stop bit, and any modem
speed up to 28.8 Kbps. See the documentation
that came with your communications
software for more information.
CompuServe’s Epson America Forum
EPSON also maintains the Epson America
Forum on CompuServe.® If you have questions
about your EPSON product, this is a good place
to get them answered.
Your computer includes the CompuServe
WinCIM® Information Manager® installed on
your hard disk drive and a free trial
subscription to CompuServe’s services and
forums. The brochure that comes with your
ActionNote describes all the CompuServe
services and how to access them.
To access the Epson America Forum in
WinCIM, simply click on the green traffic light
icon and type EPSON at the menu prompt.
Troubleshooting 7-3
Page 70
Identifying Your System
When you request technical assistance, be
ready to provide the following:
EPSON product name and model (on the
logo for your ActionNote)
EPSON product code (on base of
ActionNote)
Serial number (on base of ActionNote)
System BIOS version (displayed during
startup)
System configuration (details of Setup
settings)
Operating system and version number
Hardware configuration (connections to
external devices, memory size, upgrades,
and so on)
Names and version numbers of software
you’re using
Any error message displayed.
Once you gather this information, write it
down at the back of this manual to keep it
handy whenever you need it.
7-4 Troubleshooting
Page 71
Error Messages
Your computer contains power-on diagnostics
that check internal devices every time you
turn it on. If the computer finds an error, it
displays an error message on the screen. Many
error messages suggest a remedy. For example,
if you have installed a component, you might
need to check that it was installed correctly.
If the error is serious, the error message
remains on the screen and the computer locks
up. If this happens, contact your Authorized
EPSON Servicer or the EPSON Connection.
Troubleshooting Your ActionNote
If you have trouble with your ActionNote,
look through the headings in this chapter to
see if the problem ls covered. Then follow the
suggestions to see if you can solve the problem.
If your computer is still not working correctly,
call (800) 922-8911 or access any of the
electronic support services described earlier in
this chapter.
Troubleshooting 7-5
Page 72
The Computer Won’t Start
The computer won’t start when you press
the on/off button.
If the Power light is on, check the Suspend
light. Press any key if it is on; press the
Suspend/Resume
button if it is flashing.
Check the Charge light. If it is flashing
orange, the battery may be damaged or
installed incorrectly.
Check the Power light. If it is flashing
green, it means the battery is too low to
power the computer.
Make sure the brightness and contrast
controls are not turned down. If an
external monitor is connected, make sure
it’s turned on.
If you replaced your hard disk drive,
make sure you installed it correctly.
If you are using the battery, remove it and
reinstall it. If you are using an AC power
adapter, disconnect it and then reconnect
it. Then turn the power on again.
7-6 Troubleshooting
Page 73
You have trouble running the computer
from a battery.
(Be sure to read Chapter 2 for information on
powering your system.)
The battery power may be low. If you
have a second fully charged battery, use it
to replace the one in the computer and
recharge the original battery.
If you replace the battery and the
computer does not work properly, the new
battery also may not be fully charged.
Recharge this battery until it reaches its
maximum capacity.
When the charge light is flashing orange,
the battery may not be installed properly.
Try removing and reinstalling it.
Connect the AC power adapter to the
computer and plug the adapter into an
electrical outlet. You may not have used
the battery in a long time (three months
or more), and you may need to recharge it.
When you find that, over time, the battery
is losing its charge faster, it
may
be
reaching the end of its life. You may need
to replace it with a new battery.
Troubleshooting 7-7
Page 74
NOTE
When you need to discardyour battery, contact
your local government waste management
agency for recycling information on
rechargeable batteries.
The computer doesn’t work properly with
the AC power adapter.
Make sure the AC power adapter is
securely connected to the computer and
the electrical outlet.
Make sure the electrical outlet is
supplying power. If the outlet is working,
there may be something wrong with your
AC power adapter.
The LCD Screen Is Blank
Use the brightness and contrast controls to
adjust the screen display. See “Adjusting
the Screen Controls” in Chapter 1.
You may have switched your display to
external monitor mode. Press Fn F10 until
you see the display on your LCD screen.
Make sure the default display selected in
Setup and the settings in the video display
control panel utility are correct for your
system. See “Using Video Drivers and
Utilities” in Chapter 6.
7-8 Troubleshooting
Page 75
The computer may be in Suspend mode;
press any key or the Suspend/Resume
button to resume. Press the on/off button
to resume if you are using Instant On. See
Chapter 2 for more information.
You may have set a video timeout period
in Setup or with your operating system.
This turns off the screen after a specified
period of time has elapsed with no system
activity. Press any key to restore the
display. (See ‘Wing Power Management’
in Chapter 2.)
The Computer Locks Up
Some operations take longer than others
to perform. Wait a few minutes to see if
the computer returns to normal operation.
The computer may be in Standby or
Suspend mode. Press any key or the
Suspend/Resume button to resume
activity.
Try pressing the Num Lock key. If the
Num Lock light does not come on, the
computer is probably locked up.
You may be able to resume activity by
cancelling the current operation. Press
Ctrl Alt Del. Then follow any instructions
on the screen.
Troubleshooting 7-9
Page 76
If this does not work, turn off the
computer, wait 30 seconds, and turn it
back on.
Your Password Isn’t Working
If you type the password and then see the
password prompt again, type the
password again and press
Enter.
If the computer locks up, turn it off and
wait 30 seconds before you turn it on and
try again.
Make sure the Num Lock and
Caps
Lock
keys are in the same state as when you
created the password.
If you have forgotten your password, call
the EPSON Connection for assistance.
You Can’t Access Data on a Diskette
I
Remove the diskette and insert it again,
making sure the label is facing up.
I
Make sure the diskette is either 720KB or
1.44MB.
I
If the write-protect switch is set and you
are trying to save a file to the diskette,
either use a different diskette, or move the
write-protect switch.
7-10 Troubleshooting
Page 77
If the diskette is damaged, use a backup
copy to repeat the operation. If you need
the files on the original diskette, try
copying one file at a time.
Try formatting a new blank diskette to
determine whether the problem is with
the diskette or the drive. See your
operating system documentation or
online help for instructions.
The Diskette Drive Isn’t Working
Try reading from or writing to the
diskette in another computer’s drive, if
you have access to one.
Try cleaning the diskette drive heads.
See “Cleaning the Diskette Drive” in
Chapter 4.
If the drive is making loud or unusual
noises, contact your Authorized EPSON
Servicer or the EPSON Connection.
You Can’t Access Files on the Hard Disk
Drive
If you have set a timeout for the hard disk
in Setup and the drive powered down, it
may still be coming back up to speed. Your
drive takes about 15 seconds to resume
speed.
Troubleshooting 7-11
Page 78
Make sure the Hard Disk option is set
correctly in Setup. If your hard disk drive
is not detected, you will have to configure
the appropriate hard disk drive
parameters yourself.
If you replaced or upgraded the hard disk
drive, make sure it is installed correctly
and that the operating system is installed.
See “Upgrading the Hard Disk Drive” in
Chapter 5.
A PC Card Isn’t Working
The PC card slots on your computer
support PCMCIA version 2.1 or earlier and
accept up to two Type I or II cards, or one
Type III card. If you aren’t sure your card
is compatible, call the EPSON Connection
or your Authorized EPSON Servicer for the
latest information about tested cards.
Like a diskette, a new PC RAM or hard
disk card may need to be formatted
(initialized) before you can use it. See the
documentation that came with your card
or driver for instructions.
Press the release button to remove the
card; then try inserting it again. Listen for
the beep tone indicating that the card has
7-12 Troubleshooting
Page 79
been installed correctly. See “Using PC
Cards” in Appendix B of the online
manual for instructions.
Your computer is set up to work with most
PC cards, but some cards require that you
install other software drivers, See the
documentation that came with your card.
The ActionNote comes with PCMCIA
drivers and utilities that you can use with
your card. Your operating system may
also include drivers. For details, see “Using
PC Cards” in Appendix B of the online
manual.
You may need to restart your computer
and select the appropriate option at the
PCMCIA driver prompt. Then try your PC
card operation again.
When you resume from Suspend to Disk
mode in Windows 3.11, your PCMCIA
drivers may not be reloaded or
reinitialized. Exit any application
programs you are using and restart your
computer; then, if necessary, select the
option to load your PCMCIA card drivers
at the prompt.
See the EPSON PCMCIA Card Software User’s
Guide for information about configuring PC
cards in DOS and Windows 3.11 using the
Troubleshooting 7-13
Page 80
drivers supplied with your computer. If none
of these solutions solve your problem, contact
the card manufacturer or call your
Authorized EPSON Servicer or the EPSON
Connection for assistance.
The ActionPoint Isn’t Working Correctly
Make sure the touchpad has not been
disabled in Setup. See “Changing the
Settings” in Chapter 6 for instructions.
If you use an external pointing device
connected to the mouse port, the
touchpad is automatically disabled. If you
want to use the touchpad, turn the
computer off and then on, and touch the
ActionPoint first.
Make sure the touchpad drivers are
loaded and the ActionPoint is configured
the way you want. See “Customizing Your
ActionPoint” in Chapter 6 for more
information.
If you install another pointing device and
then want to return to the ActionPoint,
you need to reinstall the ActionPoint
drivers. Type the following commands at
the MS-DOS prompt and then follow the
instructions on the screen:
7-14 Troubleshooting
Page 81
CD\SYNTOUCH
INSTALL
The touchpad is sensitive to moisture.
Clean the ActionPoint (see “Cleaning your
ActionNote” in Chapter 4); then wash and
dry your hands.
If you still have trouble with the
ActionPoint, contact your Authorized
EPSON Servicer or the EPSON Connection.
An External Monitor Is Blank
Adjust the brightness and contrast of the
monitor screen.
Check that the monitor’s power cable is
securely connected to the monitor and to
an electrical outlet.
Make sure the monitor is set for the
correct input and can support the video
mode you have selected. See your monitor
manual for more information.
You may have switched your display to
LCD mode. Press
Fn
F10 until you see the
display on your external monitor.
If the monitor still does not work, turn off
both the computer and the monitor. Then
check the electrical outlet for power.
Troubleshooting 7-15
Page 82
Contact your Authorized EPSON Servicer
or the EPSON Connection for assistance.
An External Pointing Device Doesn’t
Work
Your ActionPoint touchpad is disabled
when you connect a device to the
external keyboard/mouse port and use it
before you use the touchpad. If you used
the touchpad first, turn the computer off
and then on.
If you connect a pointing device to the
serial port (rather than the mouse port),
however, you must disable the touchpad
with the Setup program. See “Changing
the Settings” in Chapter 6 for instructions.
If you have disabled the pointing device
in Setup, make sure your new pointing
device driver is installed and loaded. See
the documentation that came with your
device for instructions.
Make sure you connected the device to
the external keyboard/mouse port or
serial port before you turned on the
computer, as described in “Using an
External Keyboard, Mouse, or Other
Pointing Device” in Appendix B of the
online manual.
7-16 Troubleshooting
Page 83
If the device is connected to the
computer’s serial port, make sure the
device and the serial port options in Setup
are set to use the same memory address or
COM port. See “Changing the Settings” in
Chapter 6 for more information.
If you still have trouble with an external
device, check the manual that came with
it or contact the manufacturer.
Your Printer Isn’t Working
If you have just connected the printer,
check that it has power and is properly
connected to the computer.
If you have a serial printer or if you have
problems feeding paper, check the printer
manual for the correct DIP switch settings
and settings for serial operation.
Check the settings in your software to
make sure the correct port is selected.
The Memory Count Is Incorrect
Reinsert the memory module following the
instructions under “Installing a Memory
Module” in Chapter 5.
Troubleshooting 7-17
Page 84
Your Software Isn’t Working Correctly
If the application program does not start,
check that you are following the correct
procedure for starting the program, and
that it is installed correctly.
If the program is running, see the online
help to assist you in diagnosing the
problem.
If you have entered a command that you
want to stop, press Ctrl Alt Del and follow
the instructions on the screen.
If none of these solutions solves your
software problem, contact the software
manufacturer for technical support.
Your Infrared Port Isn’t Communicating
Make sure you have the infrared utility
software running and check the software
utility’s communications indicator to see
if the port is active. The IrDA device polls
for data until it finds another IrDA signal.
Check that there is no obstruction
between the ActionNote IrDA port and
the receiving device’s IrDA port. There
must be a clear line of sight between the
two communicating ports.
7-18 Troubleshooting
Page 85
Make sure the other drvice is IrDAcompliant.
Make sure that the communicating IrDA
ports are within three feet of each other,
and are positioned at an angle of 30° or
less.
Check that the IrDA port’s COM
assignment is correct. The default setting
is COM2.
Check that the Serial Port 2 options are set
to IR and to the correct address.
Troubleshooting 7-19
Page 86
A Specifications
CPU and Memory
CPU
Cyrix 5th generation 5x86
microprocessor installed as a
QFP chip with Level 2 cache on
a daughterboard
System speed
Memory
ROM
Video
RAM
Cache
Clock/calendar
Fast and slow speeds selected in
Setup
8MB RAM on the system board
expandable up to 24MB using a
4, 8, or 16MB memory expansion
module
l28KB Flash memory device
containing the system and video
BIOS and Setup program code.
The BIOS is shadowed in DRAM
for faster access.
1MB DRAM supports resolutions
up to 640 by 480 in 256 colors on
LCD and up to 1024 by 768 in
256
colors or 800 by 600 in
64K colors on external monitor
16KB internal, write-back unified
data/instruction cache; 256KB
external cache; both can be
enabled /disabled in Setup.
Real-time clock calendar, and
CMOS RAM; backed up by
internal battery
Specifications A-1
Page 87
Controllers
Video
Chips and Technology 65545 or
65548 video controller; 1MB
DRAM; 32-bit VL local bus;
supports 640 by 480 in 256 colors
on LCD; 800 by 600 In 64K colors
or 1024 by 768 in 256 colors on
external monitor; automatic
external monitor detection;
simultaneous display with LCD
screen using Fn F10 command or
software
Diskette
Hard disk
PCMCIA
drive
Super I/O controller for one
Internal 3.5-inch diskette drive;
supports 720KB and 1.44MB
formats
Super I/O controller has interface
for one internal hard disk drive;
automatically recognizes and
configures drives that support the
IDE or Enhanced IDE interface
Built-In Vadem® VG-468
controller for two stacked slots;
supports two Type I or II cards, or
one Type III; PCMCIA version 2.01
and JEIDA 4.1 compatible;
supports low power and suspend
modes; supports hot Insertion
(including ExCA standards)
register compatible with Intel®
82365SL
A-2 Specifications
Page 88
Interfaces
External
video
Auto-sensing, 15-pin, D-sub,
female connector for analog
monitor; supports
simultaneous display with
LCD using
Fn F10
hot key
sequence or software
command
Parallel
Serial
External
keyboard/mouse
Infrared
Speaker
Centronics® compatible;
25-pin, D-sub, female
connector; bidirectional 8-bit
parallel; autodetects ECP or
EPP devices when connected
and turned on at system
start-up
Auto-sensing, 6-pin, mini-DIN
connector for a PS/2-type
external keyboard, keypad or
pointing device
IrDA-compliant interface; up
to 115.2 kbits/second up to a
distance of 1 meter (3.3 feet)
within a 30 degree viewing
angle. The IrDA Interface can
be set up to use COM1(3F8h) or
COM2 (2F8h) addresses or can
be
disabled using
Setup
Internal; automatically
disabled when line-out is used
Specifications A-3
Page 89
Audio input and
output
Port replicator
Connectors for stereo line-in,
stereo line-out and for
monaural microphone;
IRQ9 (default), 5, 7, or 10;
address of 220 (default1 230,
240, or 250
Connector for ActionPort
TM
Replicator
Security
Connector for security cable
Keyboard
85 keys; 101-key keyboard compatible; embedded
numeric keypad; Fn key for hot key commands
ActionPoint Touchpad
Built-In pointing device with two buttons
compatible with PS/2 mouse driver software; can
be disabled with Setup
Volume Control
Knob adjusts sound of internal speaker and
audio card output
A-4 Specifications
Page 90
Mass Storage
Hard disk
drive
Removable Internal IDE hard
disk drive, 2.5-inch form factor;
maximum height 19 mm;
Setup automatically
recognizes and configures
drives that support IDE or
enhanced IDE Interfaces
Diskette Drive
Internal 3.5-inch diskette
drive; 720KB or 1.44MB format;
supports lower power
consumption
LCD Screen
10.4
Active area,
diagonal
measurement
inches
Setup Program
Stored in ROM;
system startup; includes power management
utilities
accessible by
pressing
F8
at
Software
See the Software Support icon in the About Your
ActionNote folder or group for the latest
information about the software Included with
your system and installed on the hard disk drive
Specifications A-5
Page 91
Power Sources
Sources include internal removable battery,
lightweight AC power adapter, or optional
international AC power adapter, and
automobile adapter
Battery
Rechargeable 12 Volt NiMH battery, current
regulation by thermistor
AC Power Adapters
Specification
AC connection2 folding
DC cable
Input voltage
Input frequency
Output voltage
Length
Width
Height
Weight
Lightweight AC
power adapterpower adapter
connectorscable
6 ft (1.8 meters)
100 VAC to100 VAC to
240 VAC240 VAC
50-60 Hz
19 VDC,
1.23 Amp
maximum
3.4 inches
(86 mm)
2.2 inches
(56 mm)
1.1 inches
(28 mm)
7.8 oz
(220 g)
A-6 Specifications
International AC
I
6 ft (1.8 meter)
6 ft (1.8 meters)
50-60 Hz
19 VDC,
1.5 Amp
maximum
4.7 inches
(120 mm)
2.04 inches
(60 mm)
1.5 inches
(37 mm)
9 oz
(255
g)
Page 92
CAUTION
Use
only
the adapters and
replacement
batteries
designed for use with the ActionNote 900 series.
Environmental Requirements
Condition
Temperature
Humidity
(non-condensing)
Altitude-200 to 12,000 ft-200 to 30,000 ft
Acoustical noise
OperatingNon-operating
42° to 95° F-4° to 140° F
(5° to 35° C)(-20° to 60° C)
30% to 90%
(-67 to 4,000 m)
35 dB at 1 meter
(maximum)
5% to 95%
(-67 to 9,000 m)
N/A
CAUTION
When traveling by airplane, take the computer into
the passenger compartment as carry-on luggage to
prevent it from being stored in an unpressurized
storage
compartment.
Physical Dimensions
Dimensions
Depth
Width
Height
Weight
U. S.
8.8 in
11.7 in
1.7 in
6 lb2.5 kg
Metric
220 mm
292 mm
43 mm
Specifications A-7
Page 93
Index
A
AC adapter
automobile, B-10
connecting 1-3
dimension& A-6
input ranges, 1-3
international 1-3, 2-2, B-8
model numbers, 2-2
precautions, 4-1
specifications A-6
using 1-2, 2-1
ActionPort replicator, using B-3
Adapter, see AC adapter
AUD sound format, 6-15
Audio card