General Dynamics Itronix IX250AC750 User Manual

GoBook Users Manual

Identification

GoBook (IX250) User’s Manual

January 2001 · Revision 003

© Copyright 2001 Itronix Corporation. All rights reserved. No part of this document may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any other language or computer language in whole or in part, in any form or by any means, whether it be electronic, mechanical, magnetic, optical, manual, or otherwise, without the prior written consent of Itronix Corporation, South 801 Stevens Street, Spokane, W ashington 99204.

Disclaimer

This document is printed in the U.S.A. Itronix Corporation reserves the right to revise the manual and make periodic changes to the content without a direct or inferred obligation to Itronix to notify any person of such revision or changes. Itronix Corporation does not assume responsibility for the use of this manual, nor for any patent infringements or other rights or third parties who may use the manual.

This document contains valuable trade secrets and proprietary information of Itronix Corporation. This product is available for purchase under the terms of the Itronix Hardware Purchase and Software License

Agreement. Itronix hardware products may be reconditioned, or be manufactured from parts and components that may be new , used, rebuilt, or recycled and in some cases, the hardware product may not be new and may have been previously installed. In any event, Itronix warranty terms apply.

T rademark Notice

Itronix is a registered trademark of Itronix Corporation. Microsoft, MS, Windows, and MS-DOS are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. IBM is a trademark of International Business Machines Corporation.

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Compliance Statements

The GoBook (IX250) computer 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 communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation.

If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is

connected.

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

The GoBook (IX250) computer complies with Part 68 of the FCC Rules. On the bottom of this equipment is a label that contains, among other information, the FCC registration number and ringer equivalence number (REN) for this equipment. If requested, this information must be provided to the telephone company .

The REN is used to determine the quantity of devices which may be connected to the telephone line. Excessive RENs on the telephone line may result in the devices not ringing in response to an incoming call. In most, but not all areas, the sum of the RENs should not exceed five (5.0). T o be certain of the number of devices that may be connected to the line, as determined by the total RENs, contact the telephone company to determine the maximum REN for the calling area.

The GoBook (IX250) computer may be connected to the telephone network using the RJ-11 jack provided.

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If this equipment causes harm to the telephone network, the telephone company will notify you in advance that temporary discontinuance of service may be required. If advance notice isn’t practical, the telephone company will notify the customer as soon as possible. Also, you will be advised of your right to file a complaint with the FCC if you believe it is necessary.

The telephone company may make changes in its facilities, equipment, operations, or procedures that could affect the operation of the equipment. If this happens, the telephone company will provide advance notice in order for you to make the necessary modifications in order to maintain uninterrupted service.

If trouble is experienced with this equipment, please contact the equipment manufacturer for repair and/or warranty information. Do not attempt repairs of this equipment yourself without obtaining manufacturer authorized parts and documentation. If the trouble is causing harm to the telephone network, the telephone company may request you remove the equipment from the network until the problem is resolved.

Compliance Statement for Canada NOTICE: The Industry Canada label identifies certified equipment. This certification means that the equipment

meets certain telecommunications network protective, operational and safety requirements as prescribed in the appropriate Terminal Equipment Technical Requirements document(s). The Department does not guarantee the equipment will operate to the user’s satisfaction.

Before installing this equipment, users should ensure that it is permissible to be connected to the facilities of the local telecommunications company. The equipment must also be installed using an acceptable method of connection. The customer should be aware that compliance with the above conditions may not prevent degradation of service in some situations.

Repairs to certified equipment should be made by a representative designated by the supplier. Any repairs or alterations made by the user to this equipment, or equipment malfunctions, may give the telecommunications company cause to request the user to disconnect the equipment.

Users should ensure for their own protection that the electrical ground connections of the power utility, telephone lines, and internal metallic water pipe system, if present, are connected together. This precaution may be particularly important in rural areas.

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CAUTION! Users should not attempt to make such connections themselves, but should contact the appropriate electric inspection authority , or electrician, as appropriate.

The Ringer Equivalence Numbers (REN) are: GoBook (IX250) non-radio: 0.5B GoBook (IX250) ARDIS: 0.5B GoBook (IX250) RAM: 0.5B GoBook (IX250) CDPD: 1.3B NOTICE: The Ringer Equivalence Number (REN) assigned to each terminal device provides an indication of the

maximum number of terminals allowed to be connected to a telephone interface. The termination on an interface may consist of any combination of devices subject only to the requirement that the sum of the Ringer Equivalence Numbers of all the devices does not exceed 5.

The GoBook (IX250) computer may be connected to the telephone network using the RJ-11 jack provided.

Fax Branding

The Telephone Consumer Protection Act of 1991 makes it unlawful for any person to use a computer or other electronic device to send any message via a telephone fax machine unless such message clearly contains in a margin at the top or bottom of each transmitted page or on the first page of the transmission, the date and time it is sent and an identification of the business or other entity, or other individual sending the message and the telephone number of the sending machine or such business, other entity, or individual.

In order to program this information into your fax machine, you should complete the following:

This information is entered through the FAX application software you have installed. Consult your FAX software documentation for instructions about entering this information.

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Warnings and Cautions WARNING It is important that only authorized Itronix personnel attempt repairs on Itronix equipment as this might

void any maintenance contract with your company . Unauthorized service personnel might be subject to shock hazard on some Itronix equipment if removal of protective covers is attempted.

The product you have purchased is powered by a rechargeable battery. The battery is recyclable and, under various state and local laws, it may be illegal to dispose of this battery into the municipal waste stream. Do not crush the battery or place it in a fire. Check with your local solid-waste officials for details on recycling options or proper disposal.

CAUTION Internal components of the GoBook (IX250) computer will be damaged if exposed to contaminants. When dust covers, the PC card door, or the battery door are open on the computer , shield the unit from all contaminants such as liquids, rain, snow, and dust.

WARNING “In order to comply with the FCC RF exposure requirements this device must be operated with a minimum seperation distance of 20 cm between the user/nearby persons and the antenna in its intended vertical operating position.”

“The antenna location is fixed in the upper right edge of the display screen and is not to be relocated”

“The equipment has been approved to [Commission Decision “CTR21”] for pan-European single terminal connection to the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN). However, due to differences between individual PSTNs provided in different countries the approval does not, of itself, give an unconditional assurance of successful operation on every PSTN network termination point.

In the event of problems, you should contact your equipment supplier in the first instance.

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Safety Information

The following safety symbols are used in this manual to indicate potentially dangerous situations. Do not proceed beyond a WARNING or CAUTION symbol until the indicated conditions are fully understood and met.

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Contents

SECTION 1 GETTING STARTED 1

Introduction 2

Unpacking Y our System 2

Precautions 3 Checklists 4

Features 5

The First Time. . . 6

Installing the Battery 6 Connecting the AC Adapter 7 Turning the Computer On and Off 8 Adjusting the Volume 9

Calibrating the Touch Screen 9 Startup Problems? 11

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SECTION 2 GETTING FAMILIAR WITH YOUR COMPUTER 13

Introduction 14 Individual Parts 15  17

LED Activity Indicators 19 LED Power / Wireless Modem Indicators 20

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Keyboard Basics 21

Restarting the Computer 21 Primary Keys 21 Arrow Keys 23 Function Keys 24 Numeric Keypad 24 Touchpad 24 General Guidelines 26 Scrolling Buttons 27 Connecting an External Keyboard or Mouse 27

Disk Drives 27 The PC Card Slot 30 Connecting to an External Monitor 32

SECTION 3 MAKING CONNECTIONS 33

Introduction 34

Rear Connectors 35 Left Side Connectors 37 Right Side Connectors 38

SECTION 4 IF YOU HAVE A WIRELESS MODEM 39

Introduction 40 Before You Start: Register! 40

Registering Your Wireless Modem 40

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Wireless Modem LED Status 42 Installing Your Wireless Modem Software 44 Using Your Wireless Modem 46

SECTION 5 POWER MANAGEMENT 49

Power Management 50

Battery Calibration 50 Monitoring Battery Power 51 Low Battery Alarms 51

Battery Charging 52

Power Saving Modes 52 Suspend Mode 53 Initiating Suspend Mode 54 Power Button Settings 54 When to Replace the Battery 55 Heat Considerations 56

SECTION 6 CUSTOMIZING YOUR BIOS SETTINGS 57

Using the BIOS Setup Utility 58

BIOS Setup Menu 58 Starting the BIOS Setup Utility 58

The Main Menu 59

Navigating and Entering Information in BIOS 60

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Standard CMOS Setup 61 Standard Feature Description 62 Advanced CMOS Setup 64 Power Management 66 Peripheral Setup 68 Auto-Detect Hard Disk 70 Change Supervisor Password 71 Change User Password 71 Auto Configuration with Optimal Settings 71 Exiting and Saving 72

SECTION 7 OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT AND ACCESSORIES 73

Vehicle Adapter 74 Vehicle Cradle 75

PRECAUTIONS 76 Charging Batteries 76 Communicating with Other Devices 77

Surge Protection 80

Selecting the Right Surge Protection 81 Selecting the Right Equipment 82

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SECTION 8 MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE 83

Introduction 84 Touch Screen Care 84 Hard Drive Care and Handling 85

Internal Hard Drives 85 External PC Card Hard Drives 86

Battery Maintenance and Storage 87

Maintaining Batteries 87 Storing Batteries 87

Computer Maintenance and Storage 88

Maintaining Y our Computer 88 Storing Your Computer 90

APPENDIX A ERROR MESSAGES 91

Introduction 92 POST Messages 92 MS-DOS Messages 98

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Application Messages 99

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APPENDIX B TROUBLESHOOTING 101

What to Try First 102

For More Help 102

Common Solutions to Common Problems 103

Applications 104

Batteries 105

Display 107 Hard Disk 108 I/O Ports 108 Keyboard 109 Landline Modems 109 Miscellaneous 111 Mouse 113 PC Cards 113

Pen/Touch Screen 114

Wireless Modems 115

APPENDIX C GLOSSARY 119

INDEX 125

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SECTION 1

Getting Started

Introduction 2

Unpacking Y our System 2

Precautions 3 Checklists 4

Features 5

The First Time. . . 6

Installing the Battery 6 Connecting the AC Adapter 7 Turning the Computer On and Off 8 Adjusting the Volume 9

Calibrating the Touch Screen 9 Startup Problems? 11

GoBook Users Manual

Introduction

Congratulations on your purchase of the Itronix GoBook computer! Your new GoBook features the most innovative advances in portable computing technology . It combines state-of-the-art ergonomics with a rugged, durable architecture to provide you with a notebook computer that is compact, powerful, rugged and easy to use. Designed for a wide range of general, business, and personal productivity applications, the GoBook is an ideal choice for use in the office, or on the road.

For maximum expandability without compromising portability, the GoBook accommodates a number of modules, including CD-ROM/DVD/FDD drives, and one PC card slot. The high capacity hard disk drive provides you with plenty of storage space for multimedia files and applications.

The GoBook features a standard 87-key Nitevue® keyboard (89-key international). The high-resolution 12.1-inch touch screen LCD panel provides clear and crisp viewing with touch screen convenience.

This User’s Guide contains all the information you need to set up and use your new GoBook. It describes all the features of the GoBook in an easy-to-read yet thorough manner.

Unpacking Your System

Inside your packaging you will find:

• Itronix GoBook computer

• Power cord

• AC adapter

• Battery

• Stylus and T ether

• GoBook Quick Start Guide

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You may have additional components or peripherals if you ordered these items separately . Check your packing slip for a complete list of items included in your package.

Precautions

You can use your computer under a wide range of environmental conditions. However, to ensure long use and continued high performance, consider the following factors when setting up your computer:

• Follow all warnings and instructions noted in this documentation and in the Windows Help program.

• The first time you use your computer, we recommend that you carefully read Section 5 Power Management to

familiarize yourself with some battery basics to ensure optimum battery performance

• Unplug the computer from the power outlet before cleaning. Use a damp cloth for cleaning. Do not use aerosols, solvents, or strong detergents

• Slots and openings in the computer case are for ventilation purposes. Do not block or cover these openings or the system could overheat

• On the bottom of the GoBook, there is a label with information on the power requirements of this system. These requirements must be followed. If you are unsure of your local power supply, consult your dealer or local Power Company

• Do not step on or place anything on the power cord

• If you use the computer with an extension cord, ensure that the total ampere ratings of all the devices sharing the

extension do not exceed the rating of the extension cord or the rating of the wall outlet

• Never push foreign objects into the computer through any of the slots or openings. Dangerous voltages are present, which could cause electric shock or fire, or damage sensitive components

• For best results, use a power strip with a built-in surge protector. Do not use inferior extension cords as this may result in damage to your computer

Section 1. Getting Started

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Checklists

After opening the package, carefully inspect the contents. Contact your dealer if any items are missing or appear damaged. The shipping carton should contain the following:

STANDARD

• A GoBook computer

• An internal battery

• An AC adapter with power cord

• Stylus and Tether

• Quick Start Guide

OPTIONS

The following items are normally optional, but some vendors may include them in the standard package. Some items may not be available in some countries, or some vendors may choose not to carry all the items.

• Floppy disk drive

• CD-ROM drive

• DVD-ROM drive

• Additional Li-Ion battery pack (3000 mAHr)

• Shoulder Strap

CAUTION When purchasing any of the accessories listed above, purchase only those accessories that are approved for use with your computer. The above accessories are proprietary items. Your system vendor can obtain these

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Section 1. Getting Started

approved accessories. If you use items that are not approved for use with this computer, you may cause your computer to malfunction, or to emit or receive electro-magnetic radiation in excess of local regulations. For non-proprietary accessories such as PC Cards or printers, ensure that the accessory functions properly in your computer before making the purchase. Your system vendor may be able to recommend reliable brands and models.

Features

High Capacity Hard Disk Drive

The computer has a high capacity hard disk drive, enabling you to install your favorite programs and store large multimedia files.

Full Array of Ports and Connectors

Your computer includes standard ports for connecting to peripherals such as printers and monitors. Additional ports allow you to add many other peripherals.

Large SVGA LCD

Your computer has a large, easy to view SVGA LCD panel.

Built-in Stereo Speakers and Microphone

The stereo speakers and internal microphone enable you to run a variety of multimedia applications.

Function Keys

Function keys allow you to suspend your computer, shut the LCDs of f, and give you easy control of audio and your monitor.

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Where to Look For Information

About Your Computer

This User’s Manual describes the key elements of your computer . New users can find a simple step-by-step orientation in the Quick Start section of this chapter.

About Windows

The Windows Online Help, found on the Start menu, offers extensive Windows assistance. Welcome to Windows offers an online orientation for new Windows users. Find it in: Start/Programs/Accessories/System Tools.

The First Time. . .

Using your computer for the first time involves:

• Installing the battery

• Connecting the AC adapter to the computer

• Callibrating and charging the battery

Installing the Battery

Make sure the computer is sheltered when you install the Lithium Ion battery; the computer is not weather sealed until the battery door is properly installed. The battery should be fully charged before you operate the unit on battery power. To get the most from your battery, follow the guidelines in Section 5 Power Management.

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To install the battery

1 Remove the battery door. 2 Align the battery connectors and place the battery in the computer. 3 Replace the battery door and rotate the door latches to secure the

door.

NOTE When the battery is installed and the computer is connected to AC power, see Connecting the AC Adapter below, it starts charging automatically. At moderate temperatures, approximately 70° Fahrenheit (21°C), the battery will be fully charged in four to six hours. In warmer or cooler temperatures, the battery can take much longer to fully charge. Refer to Section 5 Power Management for additional information.

Connecting the AC Adapter

To connect the AC adapter

1 Connect the AC adapter power cord to the AC adapter. 2 Connect the AC adapter to the power jack at the rear of your computer. 3 Connect the AC adapter power cord to an AC outlet. 4 Lift the display to open the LCD. 5 Open the LCD panel to a comfortable viewing angle. 6 Press the power button to turn ON the power.

Section 1. Getting Started

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Turning the Computer On and Off

You can operate the computer while the battery is charging, while on external power , or on battery power only.

To turn on the computer

• Press the ON/OFF button once, and then give the system time to respond.

To turn off the computer

1 From the Start menu, click Shut Down. 2 Select the Shut Down from the Shut Down Windows screen, then click OK.

If you need to leave the system for a short time, or if you want to conserve battery power, you can suspend the computer by pressing FN + F3, see Section 5 Power Management for additional information.

Suspend to RAM In a suspend to RAM, the contents of your computer’s memory are held intact, while practically all the rest of the components in your computer either turn off completely, or reduce power consumption to a minimum. In a Suspend to RAM, your computer remains active, but with a minimum possible power consumption. Return the computer to full power by pressing any key. A fully-char ged battery can maintain a Suspend to RAM for many hours.

Suspend to Disk (Hibernate) Suspend to Disk is similar to turning off the computer, except that the current state of the computer is copied to the hard disk as a special file. In a Suspend to Disk there is no power consumption. When the computer returns from suspend mode, the desktop appears with the same files and programs open as when the computer was suspended. Suspend to Disk is very useful when you don’t want to take the time to shut down all open programs one by one to shut off the computer . This mode is also called hibernation mode.

CAUTION Shutting down the computer improperly could result in lost or corrupted data.

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Adjusting the Volume

Volume for the computer is adjusted by using function key combinations.

• FN + F8 decreases the volume

• FN + F9 increases the volume

• FN + F10 mutes the volume

You can also adjust the volume with the Windows volume control applet, which is located on the taskbar and looks like this .

NOTE Adjusting the volume using the function keys produces only a slight change with each press. It may take several presses to increase or decrease the volume to a level that you desire.

Calibrating the Touch Screen

Your GoBook computer has a touch screen display . Follow the guidelines below to calibrate the touch screen for optimum use.

CAUTION

Section 1. Getting Started

• Always use an approved stylus.

• Never use sharp, hard, or abrasive implements on the touch screen such

as ball point pens, pencils, or keys. They could damage the screen.

• To clean the touch screen panel, apply a household glass cleaner to a

soft, clean, dry cloth and wipe the screen.

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GoBook Users Manual

Calibrating the touch screen

T o calibrate the touch screen click the Start menu, select Programs, UPDD or Touch screen, and then select “Cali- brate”, which opens the touch screen calibration program.

Calibrating the touch screen involves touching and releasing on the X with the stylus on your screen. This action aligns the background image with the screen.

NOTE If you cannot select objects accurately with the stylus you may need to re-calibrate the touch screen. This can be accomplished by revisiting the procedure above.

Adjusting the Screen

You can adjust the display brightness for better viewing. Use the following keys to make adjustments:

To Do This... Press

Lighten the display FN+F7 Darken the display FN+F6

Setting the Date and Time

To set the date and time

1 Click the Start button, select Settings, select Control Panel, and double-click the Date / Time icon. 2 From the Date / Time Properties menu, make changes to the Time and Date, and then close this screen by

clicking OK.

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Startup Problems?

If your computer does not operate, try these solutions.

• Connect the AC adapter to charge the battery if it is not charged.

• If the AC adapter is connected, make sure the electrical outlet you are using works.

• Check to make sure the battery is installed and charged properly.

• If the battery doesn’t begin charging, remove the battery, connect the AC adapter, and turn on the computer by

pressing ON. Reinstall the battery . The indicator light is solid while the battery is char ging.

The Appendix B Troubleshooting section of this manual lists additional solutions you can try.

Section 1. Getting Started

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S E C T I O N 2

Getting Familiar with Your Computer

Introduction 14 Individual Parts 15  17

LED Activity Indicators 19 LED Power / Wireless Modem Indicators 20

Keyboard Basics 21

Restarting the Computer 21 Primary Keys 21 Arrow Keys 23 Function Keys 24 Numeric Keypad 24 Touchpad 24 General Guidelines 26 Scrolling Buttons 27 Connecting an External Keyboard or Mouse 27

Disk Drives 27 The PC Card Slot 30 Connecting to an External Monitor 32

GoBook Users Manual

Introduction

The GoBook computer is a ruggedized, weather-sealed laptop computer system built for the demanding environment of the mobile worker. Designed for use by mobile workforces, this computer is one of the most practical work tools for collecting, managing, and communicating information in the field.

The following pages describe the external and internal features of your GoBook computer.

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Individual Parts

The following diagrams and descriptions provide an overview of your GoBook computer.

Front View

Section 2. Getting Familiar with Your Computer

Activity indicators

1 T ouch screen display 2 T ouchpad buttons 3 Scrolling button 4 Speakers 5 Power / wireless modem indicators 6 Touchpad 7 Nitevue™ Keyboard 8 Internal Microphone 9 Activity indicators 10 On / Off power button

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Power / wireless modem indicators

GoBook Users Manual

Back View

1 Cooling fan 2 Power jack 3 15-Pin VGA port 4 25-Pin parallel port 5 9-Pin serial port 6 PS2 port 7 RJ-11 modem jack 8 RJ-45 network jack 9 USB port 10 D-Rings

1010

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