Epson ActionNote 650, ActionNote 650C, ActionNote 660C User Manual
User’s Guide
Printed on recycled paper with at least 10% post-consumer content
IMPORTANT NOTICE
DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTY
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
Action Note is a trademark, and EPSON Connection and EPSON Direct are service marks
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.
The Energy Star emblem does not represent EPA endorsement of any product or service.
Copyright © 1995 by Epson America, Inc.
Torrance, California, USA 3/95
400387400-2
ii
Important Safety Instructions
Read all of these instructions and save them for later reference. Follow
all warnings and instructions marked on the computer.
●
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.
●
Connect all equipment to properly grounded power outlets. 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
ampere rating of the devices plugged into the extension cord does
not exceed the cord’s ampere rating. Also, make sure the total of all
devices plugged into the wall outlet does not exceed 15 amperes.
●
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 under the following conditions:
If the power cord or plug is damaged; if liquid has entered the
computer; if the computer has been dropped or the cabinet damaged;
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 over-current
protection for this computer, the building installation must be
protected by a 16 Amp circuit breaker.
Beim Anschluß des Computers an die Netzversorgung muß
sichergestellt werden, daß die Gebäudeinstallation mit einem
16 A Überstromschutzschalter abgesichert ist.
iii
Importances Instructions de Sécurité
Lire attentivement les instructions suivantes et les conserver pour les
consulter en cas de besoin. Observer soigneusement tous les
avertissements et directives marques surl’ordinateur.
● 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.
● Tout l’équipement doit être branché sur des prises de courant propre.
Ne jamais utiliser une prise sur le même circuit qu’un appareil à
photocopies ou un système de contrô1e de ventilation avec
commutation marche-arrêt automatique.
● S’assurer que le cordon d’alimentation 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 appareils
branchés sur ce cordon ne soit pas supérieure à la capacité du cordon.
S’assurer aussi que cette intensité ne dépasse jamais la somme de 15
ampères pour l’ensemble des appareils.
● Sauf dans les cas spécifiques expliqués dans ce manuel de l’usager,
ne pas essayer d’entretenir ou de réparer l’ordinateur soi-même.
● Débrancher l’ordinateur et contacter un technician qualifié dans les
circonstances suivantes:
Si le cordon ou la prise sent abîmés; si 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 difference de l’ordinaire. N‘ajuster que
les commandes décrites dans les directives.
● Pour les voyages par avion, prendre l’ordinateur avec soi dans la
cabine comme bagage à main, pour éviter qu’il soit transporté dans
une soute non pressurisée.
● Pour utiliser l’ordinateur en Allemagne, il est nécessaire que le
bâtiment soit muni d’un disjoncteur de 16 amperes pour protéger
l’ordinateur contre les courts-circuits et le survoltage.
iv
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
and 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 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 outlet on a circuit different from that to which the
receiver is connected
❑
Consult an experienced radio/ TV technician for help.
WARNING
The connection of a non-shielded equipment interface cable to this equipment will
invalidate the FCC Certification of this device 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 to operate the equipment.
FOR CANADIAN USERS
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class Blimits for radio noise emissions from
digital apparatus as set out in the radio interference regulations of the Canadian
Department of Communications.
Le présent appareil numérique n’émet pas de bruits radioé1ectriques dépassant les limites
applicable aux appareils numériques de Classe B prescrites dans le règlement sur le
brouillage radioélectrique édicté par le Ministère des Communications du Canada.
Contents
Introduction
Computer Features .. . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Power-saving Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...3
What This Manual Covers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...3
Conventions Used in This Manual. . . . . . . . . . 4
Where to Get Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . 5
CompuServe On-line Support. . .. . . . . . . . . 6
Chapter 1
Opening the Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...1-1
Identifying the System Components. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
Connecting the AC Adapter. . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
Turning the Computer On and Off. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5
Reading the System Window Icons. . . . . . . . . . . 1-7
Making Backup Copies of Your Files. . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-8
Running the System Configuration Utility. . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-8
When to Run the System Configuration Utility. . . . . . . . . 1-9
Starting the Utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...1-9
Changing the Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...1-10
Setting, Deleting, and Changing a Password 1-13
Setting the Power Management Options . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15
Exiting the System Configuration Utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-18
Chapter 2
Caring for the Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...2-1
Protecting the Hard Disk. . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . 2-2
Using Energy Wisely . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...2-3
Using the Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...2-3
Using the Fn Key . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...2-4
Using the Embedded Keypad. . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
Setting Up the Computer
Setting a password . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . 1-14
Deleting or changing a password. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-14
Using Your Computer
v
Using the Trackball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...2-6
Cleaning the Trackball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...2-8
Resetting the Computer . . . . . . . . ... . 2-9
Changing the CPU Speed. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9
Using Password Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...2-10
Entering a Boot Password. . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
Entering an SCU Password. . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
Using Diskettes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...2-12
Using Video Drivers and Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13
Configuring PC Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...2-14
Installing Additional PC Card Drivers and Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15
Chapter 3
Using the AC Adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...3-1
Using the Battery . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . 3-2
Monitoring Battery Power. . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
Replacing the Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...3-7
Recharging the Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...3-8
Using the Power Management Features. . . . .. . . . . . . . . . 3-10
Automatic Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...3-12
Manual Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...3-13
Resuming Activity From Suspend Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-14
Using the APM Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-15
Using Suspend to Disk Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . .. 3-16
Chapter 4
Connecting an External Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
Connecting a Parallel Device. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3
Connecting a Serial Device . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4
Checking the Serial Port Settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5
Connecting an External Keyboard or Mouse. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5
Installing a PC Card .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...4-7
Installing a Memory Module. . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8
Removing and Replacing the Hard Disk Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13
Powering the Computer
Creating the Suspend to Disk data file. . . . . . . . . . . 3-17
Recreating the Suspend to Disk data file. . . . . . . . .. 3-19
Installing Optional Devices
vi
Chapter 5
Troubleshooting
Identifying Your System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Error Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The Computer Won’t Start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Battery Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
AC Adapter Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The LCD Screen Is Blank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The External Monitor Screen Is Blank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The Computer Locks Up...... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Password Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Embedded Keypad Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Trackball Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
External Pointing Device Problems. . . . . . . . . . . .
Diskette Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Diskette Drive Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hard Disk Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Software Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Printer Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Memory Module Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
PC Card Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Appendix A Specifications
CPU and Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. A-l
Controllers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. A-2
Interfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. A-3
Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. A-3
Trackball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. A-3
Mass Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. A-3
LCD Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. A-4
System Configuration Utility. . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-4
Power sources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. A-4
Environmental Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-5
Physical Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. A-5
Optional Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. A-6
5-1
5-3
5-3
5-4
5-5
5-6
5-7
5-8
5-9
5-9
5-9
5-10
5-11
5-12
5-12
5-13
5-14
5-14
5-15
Index
vii
Introduction
The EPSON® ActionNote
TM
600 Series notebook computers give
you exceptional speed, display quality, and expaddability—all
packaged in the latest in notebook computer technology.
The ActionNote computer has 4MB of standard memory on the
system board. Some systems have an additional 4MB memory
module installed (check your system startup screen). Your
ActionNote also comes with pre-installed MS-DOS,
Microsoft® Windows,
TM
and other software so you can run a
®
vast array of the latest programs, utilities, and games designed
for productivity and fun.
Your high-capacity hard disk drive will hold the hundreds of
program and data files you create as you use your computer.
And when you‘re ready to acquire more capability, your
computer’s two PCMCIA card slots allow you to quickly and
easily add flash RAM, fax/ modem, local area network (LAN),
and other PC card options.
You can even use your ActionNote like a desktop PC when
you‘re not on the road; just connect an external monitor,
keyboard, mouse, and printer.
Computer Features
Your computer comes with the following features:
486DX2 microprocessor with 8KB of internal cache
4MB of RAM on the system board (additional 4MB memory
module installed on some systems), expandable to 20MB
512KB of video RAM
Introduction
1
❑
LCD screen supporting VGA resolutions of 640 x 480 in
256 colors or 64 gray shades
❑
High-speed, 32-bit local bus video technology supports
resolutions up to 1024 x 768 in 16 colors or 800 x 600 in 256
colors on an external monitor
❑
High-capacity hard disk drive
❑
Built-in 16 mm trackball with two buttons
❑
Two stacked PCMCIA Type II slots, supporting two Type I
or Type II cards or one Type III card
❑
Long-lasting, rechargeable NiMH battery
❑
Compact AC adapter
❑
Pre-installed software on your hard disk drive, including
MS-DOS, Microsoft Windows, and in any other programs
❑
On-line computer user’s guide, Windows manual, and
other manuals providing instructions and inform ation
while you are on the road.
Your ActionNote has been configured for you and the hard
disk drive already contains most of the software you need.
Video drivers have already been installed and you can select
whether to load your PCMCIA drivers and utilities each time
you boot your computer.
See the card titled “For Software Support” that came with your
computer for a list of the manuals, diskettes, and brochures that
are included with your software.
Also see the “About EPSON” group window in Windows for
the latest information about your ActionNote and about
EPSON’s services.
2 Introduction
Power-saving Features
The ActionNote complies with the United States
Environmental Protection Agency’s Energy Star Program,
which prom otes the manufacture of energy-efficient printers,
computers, and monitors. Your computer’s power
management features place the system in low-power standby
and suspend modes when it has been inactive for specified
periods of time. The System Configuration utility lets you
customize the way your computer saves power so you can
ensure that the power management features fit the way you
work.
Note
If you use an Energy Star compliant external monitor with
your computer, it also enters a low-power standby mode
because it is not receiving video signals from your computer.
(Screens on non-compliant monitors become blank but do
not enter a low-power mode.)
What
This
You do not need to read everything in this book to use your
computer; see the following chapter summaries:
Manual Covers
Chapter 1 provides steps for setting up your computer.
Chapter 2 covers basic information about using the computer.
Chapter 3 explains how to power your computer with the
AC adapter or the battery and how to conserve battery power.
Chapter 4 describes how to connect optional devices, install
additional memory, and remove the hard disk drive.
Introduction 3
Chapter 5 provides troubleshooting tips.
Appendix A lists the computer’s specifications.
At the end of them anual, you’ll find an
Index and a list of
EPSON U.S. and international marketing locations.
Conventions Used in This Manual
This manual uses the following type conventions in the text:
Example Meaning
Enter
Fn F12
C: \DOS
DISKCOPY A: B:
Keys you press on the keyboard
Keys you press at the same time; hold down the
key marked Fn and press the F12 key
Text as it appears on the screen
Text that you type exactly as shown
4 Introduction
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 support services through the
EPSON Connection.
(800) 922-8911.
Call the EPSON Connection for the following:
❑
Technical assistance with the installation, configuration,
and operation of EPSON products
❑
Assistance in locating your nearest Authorized EPSON
Reseller or Customer Care Center
❑
Assistance with Extra Care Road Service
❑
Customer relations
❑
EPSON technical information library fax service
❑
Product literature on current and new products.
SM
In the United States or Canada, dial
You can purchase accessories, manuals, or parts for EPSON
products from EPSON Accessories at (800) 873-7766 (U.S. sales
only). In Canada, call (800) 922-8911.
When you call for technical assistance, be ready to identify
your system and its configuration, and provide any error
messages to the support staff. See Chapter 5 for more
information.
If you purchased your computer in the United States or
Canada, EPSON also provides Extra Care Road Service. Your
ActionNote package should contain information on this
program; if not, call the EPSON Connection.
Introduction .5
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. International
marketing locations are listed at the end of this manual.
If you need help with any software application program you
are using, see the documentation that came with that program
for technical support information.
CompuServe On-line Support
Your computer includes the CompuServe® WinCIM
information manager and a free CompuServe membership.
This membership entitles you to an introductory $15 usage
credit on CompuServe’s extended services and forums. The
brochure that came with your computer describes the
CompuServe services and how to access them, as well as
providing subscription information.
Note
To access CompuServe, you must install a modem PC card
in your computer.
The fastest way to access helpful tips, specifications, drivers,
application notes, tables for DIP switch or jumper settings, and
bulletins for EPSON products is through the Epson America
Forum on CompuServe.
To access the Epson America Forum, simply click on the green
traffic light icon and type EPSON at the menu prompt.
6 Introduction
Chapter 1
Setting Up the Computer
This chapter describes how to setup your computer. It covers:
❑
Opening the screen
❑
Identifying the system components
❑
Connecting the AC adapter
❑
Turning the computer on and off
❑
Reading the System Window icons
❑
Backing up files
❑
Running the System Configuration utility (SCU).
Opening the Screen
To open the LCD screen, slide the latch on the computer’s lid to
the right and lift the lid upward.
Setting Up the Computer
1-1
ldentifying the System Components
Use the illustrations below to help you identify your system
components.
1-2 Setting Up the Computer
Connecting the AC Adapter
The AC adapter included with your computer can be used in
most countries because it operates in the input ranges
100-250 VAC with frequencies of 47-63 Hz. If you are using the
adapter in a country other than the one where you purchased
your computer, make sure you have the correct power cord
before you connect the AC adapter to an electrical outlet.
Caution
Use only the adapter designed for the ActionNote 600 Series
computer (model number TSA3), or you could damage the
computer.
To connect the AC adapter, first connect the adapter’s power
cord to the connector, as shown below.
Setting Up the Computer 1-3
Position the connector on the AC adapter cable so the side with
the arrow faces up. Then connect the cable to the AC adapter
port on the right side of the computer.
Plug the adapter’s power cord into an electrical outlet. The
green power light on the adapter comes on and the AC Power
icon (the plug) appears in the computer’s System Window. (See
page 1-7 for a description of the System Window icons.)
For more information about powering the computer with the
AC adapter, see Chapter 3. For instructions on connecting
optional equipment to your computer, see Chapter 4.
1-4 Setting Up the Computer
Turning the Computer On and Off
The first time you use your computer, the battery may not be
charged (NiMH batteries lose up to 20% of their charge each
week they aren’t recharged), so make sure the AC adapter is
connected. Then press the power button on the back panel to
turn on the computer.
The computer beeps and then begins a series of power-on
diagnostics that check the circuit boards, memory, ports,
keyboard, and disk drives.
First you see this prompt:
Press SPACEBAR to skip memory test
Press the spacebar or let the power-on diagnostic tests
continue. Then you see this prompt on the bottom of the screen
for 1 second:
<CTRL-ALT-S> to enter System Configuration
Utility
(Ignore this prompt for now.)
You then see a prompt asking if you want to load PC card
drivers. If you do not respond to the prompt within 5 seconds,
the computer loads the drivers and continues to boot. Ignore
this prompt also. (See “Configuring PC Cards” in Chapter 2 for
more information about this prompt.)
Your computer comes with MS-DOS and Microsoft Windows
installed on the hard disk, so it starts Windows next.
Setting Up the Computer 1-5
Note
If you want to adjust the brightness, contrast, or other
aspects of the display, see “Using the Fn Key” in Chapter 2
for keyboard commands you can use.
If you plan to use another operating system, such as OS/ 2,
®
UNIX®, or Windows NT, perform the necessary steps to install
the program now. See the documentation that came with it for
installation instructions.
Before you turn off the computer, save your data and exit the
program you are currently using. Make sure the computer is
not accessing data from the diskette drive, hard disk drive, or a
PC card by checking the icons in the System Window; see
page 1-7 for more information.
Press the power button for two seconds to turn off the
computer. This two second delay is a safety feature to prevent
you from accidentally turning off the computer.
Caution
Always make sure the computer is off before you connect or
disconnect equipment, such as an external keyboard. You
can, however, insert or remove a PC card, or connect a
printer while the computer is on.
1-6 Setting Up the Computer
Reading the System Window lcons
These icons appear in the System Window above the keyboard
to indicate the status of certain computer operations.
System Window icons
Icon Name Meaning
Caps Lock
Num Lock Num Lock is on; also helps control
Scroll Lock
Embedded
Keypad
Locked
Hard Disk Computer is accessing the hard disk drive
Activity
Diskette Computer is accessing a diskette
Drive
Activity
PC Card Computer is accessing a PC card
Activity
Suspend System is in suspend mode; see Chapter 3
Battery
Status
Battery AC adapter is charging the battery; see
Charging Chapter 3
Caps Lock is on
embedded keypad; see Chapter 2
Scroll Lock is on
Embedded keypad is locked; see
Chapter 2
Gauges charging status and power left in
the battery; see Chapter 3
AC Power
AC adapter is connected to the
computer; see Chapter 3
For more information about the AC Power, Battery Charging,
Battery Status, and Suspend icons, see Chapter 3. For
information on the Num Lock and Embedded Keypad Locked
icons, see Chapter 2.
Setting Up the Computer 1-7
Making Backup Copies of Your Files
Before you start using your computer, it’s a good idea to make
a backup copy of your hard disk drive. Use the MWBACKUP
utility in the Windows Applications group or the MS-DOS
BACKUP command to back up the contents of the drive. Refer
to your on-line Windows manual or Windows Help utility for
instructions on using MWBACKUP; use the MS-DOS help
utility for instructions on using BACKUP.
You should make backup copies of any diskettes you have that
contain programs and store the copies away from your originals.
Also be sure to regularly backup your hard disk drive in case you
need to restore the files and programs you keep there.
Running the System Configuration Utility
The System Configuration utility (SCU) defines your system’s
configuration so the computer recognizes all of its devices. The
SCU is stored in the computer’s ROM (read only memory),
where you can access it whenever you turn on or reset the
computer, or when you press Ctrl Alt S at the MS-DOS prompt.
Caution
The SCU reboots your computer when you exit the utility
and any data left in your computer’s memory at that time is
lost. If you want to run the SCU while you are using an
MS-DOS application, save your data and exit the program
before you press Ctrl Alt S. To protect you from losing any
data, you cannot run the SCU from Windows.
The configuration you define through the SCU is stored in an
area of memory called CMOS RAM, which is backed up by a
battery and is not erased when you turn off or reset the
computer.
1-8 Setting Up the Computer
Note
If you remove the computer’s battery and leave your system
without a power source for more than 10 days, the internal
battery runs out of power and does not retain your
configuration information. If this happens, you must run the
SCU again and re-enter any changes you made to the default
settings.
When to Run the System Configuration Utility
Because your computer was set up and configured for you, the
configuration information may already be correct for your
needs. However, you may want to run the SCU to enter the
correct time and date, set a password, or customize the power
management features. (You can also access the power
management features by pressing Ctrl Alt P or Fn
addition, any time you change the computer’s configuration
(by installing or removing memory, for example), you need to
run the SCU to update the configuration.
Esc.) In
Starting the Utility
You can start the SCU by pressing Ctrl Alt S at the MS-DOS
prompt or during power-on diagnostics. To start the SCU
during power-on diagnostics, make sure there is no diskette in
the diskette drive; then turn on your computer. You see the
following prompt at the bottom of your screen for 1 second:
<CTRL-ALT-S> to enter System Configuration
Utility
As soon as you see this message, press Ctrl Alt S.
Setting Up the Computer 1-9
If you do not press Ctrl Alt S within 1 second, the computer
loads Windows. If this happens, exit Windows and press
Ctrl Alt S at the MS-DOS prompt to start the SCU.
Changing
When the computer starts the SCU, you see the System
Configuration screen which lists the current configuration
option settings. To select the options you want to change, use
the pull-down menus that you open from the menu bar at the
top of the screen. Some of the menu bar options access other
screens, such as the Power Management option (PowerMgmt).
Use the and keys to highlight the menu bar option you
want to select; then press Enter. If you prefer, you can also
press the key for the highlighted letter in the menu option to
select it. (The Defaults and Exit options do not have
pull-down menus; see the table below for more information.)
Once you see a pull-down menu, use the or keys to
highlight the option you want to change and press Enter.
You ’ll notice two ways to change a particular option’s setting:
Select a setting or respond to a prompt displayed in a
Press Enter to enable or disable the option; a check mark
the Settings
dialog box on the screen
indicates an enabled option.
To close a pull-down menu or dialog box, press E
1-10
Setting Up the Computer
SC.
The SCU screen displays the detected size of your system
memory areas, including base, extended, and shadow memory.
It also lets you change or verify the settings listed in the
following table. An asterisk (*) next to an option indicates the
default setting.
SCU options
Option
Standard menu
Date
Time
Trackball Enables or disables the
COM Port Assigns the built-in serial COM2 (2F8h) *
Parallel Mode (1) Assigns the operation Normal *
Diskette Drive Specifies a diskette drive
Hard Disk (2)
Preferences menu
Description Settings
Sets the date used by the
system
Sets the time used by the
system (24 hour format)
built-in trackball (assigned
as COM1 )
port address (the COM4 (2E8h)
PCMCIA slots are COM3)
mode of the parallel port Bidirectional
type for drive A (drive B 1.2 MB
option is inoperable) None
Automatically detects the Custom
drive type or allows you Auto *
to define the parameters
mm/old/yyyy
hh:mm:ss
= Enabled*
No = Disabled
Disable
Disable
1..44MB *
None
Quick Boot
Num Lock
Allows you
non-essential diagnostic
tests at startup
Sets whether Num Lock
mode is on or off when
you turn on or reset the
computer
to skip
Setting Up the Computer
=
No = Disabled*
No = Off*
Enabled
= On
1-11
SCU options [continued)
Option
Typematic Rate
Typematic Delay Sets the amount of time it 250 ms
Boot Password
SCU Password
Boot Drive
VGA menu
Display Mode Selects the display mode LCD *
Description Settings
Sets the speed at which
characters repeat when
you hold down a key; in
characters per second 15 CPS
(Cps)
takes before a key 500 ms *
repeats input when you 750 ms
hold it down; in 1000 ms
milliseconds (ins)
See "Setting, Deleting,
and Changing a
Password" below
See "Setting, Deleting,
and Changing a
Password" below
Selects the drive the
computer should check Drive C
first as it boots the system
the computer uses when
you boot the system BOTH (active matrix and
2 CPS
6 CPS
10 CPS*
20 CPS
30 CPS
No = Disabled *
= Enabled
No = Disabled *
Drive A *
CRT
= Enabled
monochrome only)
LCD
(appears display text and graphics Reverse
only on against the background
monochrome on your screen;
models)
Sets the mode used to
normal = white on a
black background,
reverse = black on a
white background
1-12 Setting Up the Computer
Normal *
SCU options [continued)
Option
Memory menu
Cache Enable Controls the processor’s
PowerMgmt
menu
Defaults
Exit See “Exiting the SCU, ” below
* Default setting
(1) The parallel port is always LPT1. Some hardware diagnostic programs may
only be able to read the parallel port in Normal mode.
(2) Select Auto so the computer can try to automatically configure your hard
disk drive; select
you removed your hard disk drive.
Description Settings
internal cache operation
See "Setting the Power Management Options," below
Sets all options to their default values
Custom
to enter the specific parameters; select
= Enabled*
No = Disabled
Setting, Deleting, and Changing a Password
You can set two types of passwords on your system: a Boot
password and an SCU password. The Boot password prevents
an unauthorized user from accessing any programs or data on
your computer, including the System Configuration utility. The
SCU password prevents access only to the SCU and your
system configuration information.
None
if
If you set a Boot password, the computer prompts you to enter
it each time you turn on or reset your computer. If you set an
SCU password, the computer prompts you to enter it each time
you press Ctrl Alt S to run the SCU.
Follow the instructions in the next sections to set, delete, or
change your password. See the instructions in Chapter 2 for
entering your password when the system prompts you for it.
Setting Up the Computer
1-13
Setting a password
Follow these steps to set a password:
1.
Highlight the Boot Password or SCU Password option.
2.
Press Enter. You see the password entry screen. (Press E
exit this screen, if necessary.)
3.
Type a password from 4 to 8 characters long. As you type,
you see only asterisks (*) displayed on the screen.
4.
Press Enter. You see another password entry screen asking
you to verify the password by entering it again.
5.
Type the password again and press Enter. (If you enter an
incorrect password, you see an error message; start over
again at step 1.)
6.
You see a message verifying that a password is set. Press any
key to continue. The selected password option setting is
changed to (Enabled).
Deleting or changing a password
If you want to delete or change a password, follow these steps:
1. Highlight the Boot Password or SCU Password option.
2. Press Enter; the disappears and the password is disabled.
SC to
3. If you want to change the password, press Enter again. You
see the password entry screen.
4. Type a new password from 4 to 8 characters long. You see
only asterisks (*) displayed on the screen.
5. Press Enter. You see another password entry screen asking
you to verify the password by entering it again.
1-14 Setting Up the Computer
6. Type the password again and press Enter. (If you enter an
incorrect password, you see an error message; start over
again at step 1.)
7. You see a message verifying that a password is set. Press any
key to continue. The selected password option setting is
changed to (Enabled).
Setting the Power Management Options
When you select the PowerMgmt option from the SCU menu
bar, the screen changes to the Power Management screen. Use
the menu bar and pull-down menu options the same way you
use them on the SCU screen.
Note
You can also access this screen outside of the SCU by
pressing Ctrl Alt P or Fn
pressing Fn
E SC from Windows. Then when you exit the
Power Management screen, you return to the MS-DOS
prompt or to Windows, depending on where you were
when you brought up the screen.
ESC at the MS-DOS prompt or by
Setting Up the Computer
1-15
The table below lists the power management options. For a
complete description of how these options work, see Chapter 3.
Caution
If you use your ActionNote on a network, you should
disable the computer’s power management features because
they can interfere with your network software and prevent
proper connection to the network.
Power management options
Option
Controls menu
Power Savings
Battery Low
Alarm Resume
(1)
System menu
CPU Standby
Global Standby
Description
Selects when the power
management features are
enabled; set Battery = enable
when using battery power only
Selects whether to warn you of
a low battery and enter
suspend mode or to warn you
and not enter suspend mode
Sets a time in which the system
automatically resumes activity
after entering suspend mode; if
enabled, select a time
Sets an inactivity time period
after which the system slows
down the CPU (in seconds)
Sets an inactivity time period
after which the system turns off
all devices and slows down the
CPU (in minutes)
Settings
Always *
Battery
Disable
Suspend *
4=
No = Warn only
= Enable
No = Disable *
4 Sec *
8 Sec
16 Sec
Disable
1
Min
2 Min
4 Min
6 Min*
8 Min
12 Min
16 Min
Disable
1-16
Setting Up the Computer
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