Gericom 6XA User Manual

Notice

Updating or revising this manual or making any changes to the information herein will be initiated when the company deems it necessary. The company reserves the right to take the above-mentioned actions and is under no obligation to notify any person of such actions in advance or afterwards.

1997

Trademarks

MS-DOS, Microsoft Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. IBM PC, OS/2, PS/2, EGA, and VGA are registered trademarks of International

Business Machines, Inc. Intel, Pentium are trademarks of Intel Corporation. Cyrix, 6x86 are trademarks of Cyrix Corporation. AMD, AMD-K5 are trademarks of Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. SystemSoft is a registered trademark of SystemSoft Corp. Sound Blaster Pro is a trademark of Creative Labs, Inc. Duracell is a registered trademark of Duracell Inc. Other brand and product names are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their

respective companies.

Warranty Provisions

Warranties for the Notebook Computer may vary with different areas. If you have any questions, please call your local dealer with the serial number of your unit, and you will be provided with all warranty information you need.

The manufacturer is not liable to any purchaser for damage, lost revenue, lost wages, lost savings, or any other incidental or consequential damages arising from the purchase or use of the product or inability to use the product.

FCC Notice

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 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.

CE - Certificate

This model is in compliance with the requirements of the following regulation:

EN 55 022: CLASS B

Important safety instructions

Please read and follow these important instructions.

1. Follow all warnings and instructions marked on this product.

2. Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning it or connecting peripheral

devices.

3. Use a damp cloth with mild soap to clean this product. Do not apply cleaner directly to

the unit. Do not use volatile or abrasive cleaners on this product.

4. Do not place this product on an unstable surface where it may fall.

5. Do not block or cover the system’s ventilation openings. Also, never place this product

near or over a radiator or heat register, or in a built-in installation unless adequate ventilation is provided.

6. Operate this product in accordance with its rated power specifications. If you are unsure

of your local power specifications, consult your dealer or local power company.

7. This product is equipped with a 3-wire grounding type plug. This is an important safety

feature; do not defeat its purpose. If you do not have access to such power, have a qualified electrician install a proper outlet.

8. Do not allow anything to rest on the power cord. Do not locate this product where

persons will likely walk on the cord.

9. If an extension cord is used with this product, make sure the total current drawn by the

products plugged into the extension cord do not exceed the extension cord or outlet power ratings.

10. Do not allow foreign matter to enter the system.

11. Do not attempt to service this product yourself. Opening or removing covers may expose

dangerous voltage points. Refer all repair work to qualified service personnel.

12. Unplug this product from the wall outlet, do not operate it, and immediately seek proper

servicing if:

•

The power cord or plug is damaged or frayed.

•

Liquid or foreign matter has entered this product.

•

This product has been exposed to rain or water.

•

This product has been dropped or damaged.

•

This product exhibits a distinct change in performance, indicating a need for service.

13. Do not use any battery pack other than the one specifically designed for this system.

Batteries may explode or leak if exposed to fire or improperly handled or guarded. Refer battery replacement to your dealer or qualified service personnel.

14. Only use UL listed/CSA certified, type SVT/SJT power cords rated 6A 250V minimum

(VDE approved or equivalent). It should be a detachable type with a minimum length of 6 feet.

15. Adjust only those controls that are covered by these operating instructions. Improper

adjustment of other controls may result in serious damage to the system which is not covered by the warranty.

Table of Content

Chapter 1: Getting Started

Unpacking ............................................................................................................8

Operating Environment ..............................................................................................9

Powering the System ..................................................................................................10

AC Power .......................................................................................................10

Opening the LCD Cover ............................................................................................11

Portable Operation .....................................................................................................12

Primary Battery Pack .....................................................................................12

Secondary Battery Pack (Option) ...................................................................13

Recharging by AC Power ...............................................................................14

Duracell Rechargeable Battery Compatible ...................................................15

Proper Handling of Battery Packs ..................................................................15

Power Status LED Indicators .....................................................................................16

Chapter 2: System Overview

Right-Side View .........................................................................................................18

Right-Side Stand ............................................................................................18

Microphone-in Jack .......................................................................................18

Line-in Jack ....................................................................................................18

Headphone Jack .............................................................................................18

Infrared ...........................................................................................................18

PC Card Type III Expansion Slot ...................................................................18

CD-ROM Drive .............................................................................................18

Ventilation......................................................................................................18

Left Side View ...........................................................................................................20

Left-Side Stand ..............................................................................................20

Battery Latch ..................................................................................................20

PC Card Type II Slot ......................................................................................20

2.5” Hard Disk Drive .....................................................................................20

3.5” Floppy Disk Drive ..................................................................................20

Primary Battery Pack .....................................................................................20

Rear View ............................................................................................................22

DC-in Socket ..................................................................................................22

Serial Port.......................................................................................................22

Expansion Port ...............................................................................................22

RCA Jack .......................................................................................................22

External Monitor (CRT) Port .........................................................................22

MIDI/Game Port ............................................................................................22

Parallel Port ....................................................................................................22

PS/2 Type Port ...............................................................................................22

Top-Front View .........................................................................................................24

Power Switch Button .....................................................................................24

Microphone ....................................................................................................24

LCD Panel ......................................................................................................24

System Status LCD Bar .................................................................................24

Dual Stereo Speakers .....................................................................................24

Trackpad Pointing Device ..............................................................................24

Windows 95 Keyboard ...................................................................................24

Icon Indicators in the LCD Bar ..................................................................................26

The Keyboard ............................................................................................................28

New Keys for Windows 95 ............................................................................28

Chapter 3: System Operating

Upgrading CPU ..........................................................................................................30

Setting CPU Speed .........................................................................................31

Setting CPU Power ........................................................................................32

ZIF Socket Operation .....................................................................................33

Expanding Memory ....................................................................................................34

Configuring TV-Output .............................................................................................37

Using the Fn Key .......................................................................................................38

PgUp, PgDn, Home, End Keys ......................................................................38

Embedded Numeric Keypad ..........................................................................39

Hot Keys ........................................................................................................40

Using Hard Disk Drive ..............................................................................................41

Using Floppy Disk Drive ...........................................................................................43

Using CD-ROM .........................................................................................................44

Using PC Card Sockets ..............................................................................................45

Chapter 4: BIOS Utility

Power On Self Test (POST) .......................................................................................47

POST Messages - Normal operation ..............................................................48

POST Messages - Error Detected ..................................................................49

System Configuration Utility (SCU) ..........................................................................50

Invoking the System Configuration Utility ....................................................50

Working with the Menu Bar of the SCU ...........................................51

Working with the Pull-Down Menu of the SCU ...............................52

Features of the System Configuration Utility ................................................53

System Menu......................................................................................53

Devices Menu ....................................................................................55

Power Menu .......................................................................................58

Exit Menu ..........................................................................................60

Chapter 5: Power Management

Advanced Power Management ..................................................................................62

Power Management Settings in the SCU ...................................................................62

Standby Mode ................................................................................................62

Suspend Mode ................................................................................................63

Suspend to Memory ...........................................................................63

Suspend to Disk .................................................................................64

Appendix A: Specifications Appendix B: Pin Assignment

......................................................................65

..................................................................68

Chapter 1 Getting Started

The instructions in this chapter will help familiarize you with the Notebook and show you how to quickly get it up and running. Specifically, the chapter will discuss:

 Unpacking.  Operating environment.  Powering on the Notebook.  Opening LCD cover.  Installing the primary battery pack.  Installing the secondary battery pack.  Charging the battery pack(s).  Power Status LED indicators.

Unpacking

Carefully unpack the Notebook Computer and the included accessories. If there is any discrepancy or problem, contact your dealer immediately. Be sure to save the packing materials in case you need to repack and ship the Notebook back in the future.

•

Notebook Computer.

•

Carrying Bag.

•

Power Adapter.

•

Power Cord.

•

User Manual.

•

PS/2 Transfer Cable.

•

Utilities Diskette(s).

•

Compact Disk.

Operating Environment

As with any other precision electronic equipment, proper care and operation of your Notebook will provide long and reliable service. Be sure the computer system should not be:

•

Exposed to excessive heat or direct sunlight.

•

Subjected to shock or vibration.

•

Exposed to strong magnetic fields.

•

Left in a place where foreign matter or moisture may enter the system.

Powering the System

The first time the Notebook is opened, the AC power source should be used since the internal battery pack (if installed) may have discharged during shipment.

AC Power

Use only the power adapter that comes with your Notebook Computer. System operation with an incorrect power adapter will cause damage to the Notebook and its components. Follow these steps when connecting the AC power adapter:

1. Plug the power adapter to the DC socket on the rear of the Notebook.

2. Connect the AC power cord to the power adapter.

3. Plug the AC power cord into a properly grounded outlet.

Opening the LCD Cover

1. Slide the top cover latch to the right to release the latch.

2. Lift the top cover to reveal the LCD panel and keyboard.

3. Adjust the LCD panel to a comfortable viewing angle.

Portable Operation

Primary Battery Pack

The Notebook system can be powered by battery pack for continuous portable operation without an external power source when you take it away from the office. However, the actual operating time will be dependent upon the application you use and the configuration you set.

Inserting

1. Open the battery access door on the left side of the Notebook.

2. Slide the battery into the compartment until the latch clicks into place

3. Close the access door..

Removing

1. Open the access door.

2. Press the battery latch upward to pop up the battery pack.

3. Pull the battery pack out of the compartment.

Secondary Battery Pack (Option)

When you need prolonged use without the availability of the AC adapter, you may consider a spare battery, called Secondary Battery Pack, for optimal portable operation. Contact your dealer for more information. The Secondary Battery Pack is designed to reside in the same compartment as that of the floppy diskette drive.

1. Turn the Notebook off.

2. Turn the Notebook over.

3. Locate the FDD (Floppy Diskette Drive) latch.

4. Press the latch in the illustrated direction and pull the floppy diskette drive out of

the compartment.

5. Slide the Secondary Battery Pack all the way into the empty compartment.

Remove the Floppy Disk

Insert the Secondary Battery

Recharging by AC Power

The system’s battery pack will recharge whenever the system is plugged into the AC power supply, regardless if the system is being operated or not.

Off-Line Charge The Notebook system is powered off. Connect the AC

adapter to the unit. Its DC output will be used solely to charge the battery. It will take hours to bring a completely discharged battery to its full charge state.

Trickle Charge The Notebook system is powered on. Again, make sure the

AC adapter is connected to the unit. Its DC output will both power the system and charge the battery. It may take more hours than off-line charge to charge the battery.

DURACELL Rechargeable Battery Compatible

The Notebook system is compatible with DURACELL rechargeable battery:

 DR36 nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH) rechargeable battery  DR202 Lithium ion (Li-Ion) rechargeable battery

The DURACELL battery comes with a charge indicator button. Simply press the indicator button to get informed of the reamining battery life. Read its instrtuctions before using the battery.

You may obtain additional battery from your dealer or retail outlets worldwide. The Secondary Battery Pack must be inserted into the bracket as shown below:

Battery

Proper Handling of Battery Packs

 Do not attempt to disassemble the battery under any circumstances.  The battery may explode if exposed to fire or high temperatures.  Avoid short circuit the battery by the metal terminals (+, −).

Bracket

Power Status LED Indicators

The Power Status LED on the top-right corner of the base of the Notebook indicates the various states of battery and AC power.

Icon Color of Light Status

Green System power on (either by AC or by battery)

Red Battery being charged

Orange Battery being charged while system powered on

Green Primary battery fully charged

Red Secondary battery fully charged

Orange Both batteries fully charged

Chapter 2 System Overview

This Chapter identifies various features of the Notebook that are important to the proper operation of the system. It will discuss the following topics:

 Identifying all devices and ports.  Identifying the system status LCD bar codes.  Getting familiar with the keyboard.

Right Side View

Right-Side Stand

Slide this stand outward (together with the left-side stand) to adjust the viewing angle.

When a high speed CPU is installed, erecting the stands on both sides will help heat dissipation during operation.

Microphone-in Jack

This audio port accepts sound source to record or to playback when externally connected microphone is used instead of the built-in one.

Line-in Jack

External sound source can be fed into the Notebook through this jack to record or to playback.

Headphone Jack

Headphone can be attached to the system through this jack, so can external speakers that have their own built-in output power amplifier.

Infrared

The wireless communications capabilities are based on IrDA (Infrared Data Association) standards for cordless connection between the Notebook Computer and an IrDA-compliant device.

PC Card Type III Expansion Slot

The Type III PC Card slot is located inside a flip-down panel. It allows you to conveniently attach numerous accessories to the Notebook Computer. It is equivalent to two Type II PC Cards slots. The ejection button for the upper slot is located on the left. The ejection button for the lower slot is on the right.

CD-ROM Drive

The 5.25” IDE CD-ROM drive uses the tray loading mechanism for ease of use. Press the ejection button to load the tray from the drive unit.

Ventilation

The Notebook features a ventilation to dissipate the system’s operating heat. Do not block or obstruct it during operation.

Right

side stand

Microphone

-in

Line

-in

Headphon

Infrared

PC card Type III

CD-ROM drive

Ventilation

Left Side View

Left-Side Stand

Slide this stand outward (together with the right-side stand) to adjust the viewing angle. When a high speed CPU is installed, erecting the stands on both sides will

help heat dissipation during operation.

Battery Latch

Sliding the battery latch upward will unload the battery pack.

PC Card Type II Slot

The PC Card slot will accommodate a Type II format for system expansion capability.

2.5” Hard Disk Drive

The system’s 2.5” hard disk features a high capacity for data storage providing high access time for excellent performance.

3.5” Floppy Disk Drive

This is the location of the Notebook Computer’s 3.5” high density 1.44MB floppy diskette drive. You may press the button on its top-right side for diskette ejection.

Primary Battery Pack

The Notebook Computer’s primary rechargeable battery pack provides the system with the power for long run time.

Left-side stand

Primary battery pack

3.5” floppy diskette drive

Battery latch

PC card Type II

2.5” hard disk drive

Rear View

DC-in Socket

This socket is where the Notebook Computer’s universal AC/DC power adapter is connected to the system. To disconnect the power adapter, pull the plug (not the cord) directly back.

Serial Port

This RS233 port is 16C550 compatible to connect an external mouse for example.

Expansion Port

This port is used to connect the proprietary Port Replicator or Docking Station. All of the features of the Docking Station are available through the plug-in process offering the Notebook Computer access to a desktop system.

RCA Jack

Use this jack to transmit video signal to a TV set. You may need to select the video standard (NTSC/PAL) for video display.

External Monitor (CRT) Port

This port allows the connection of an external monitor to the system. It uses a 15-pin connector and supports super-VGA, and simultaneous display of LCD and CRT.

MIDI/Game Port

This port is used to either connect any MIDI device such as a MIDI instrument or keyboard, or connect an external standard joystick.

Parallel Port

This is a parallel port to connect a printer for example. It supports EPP (Enhanced Parallel Port) and ECP (Extended Capabilities Port) modes, but required as well is the use of the connected parallel device’s software driver.

PS/2 Type Port

An external keyboard is able to be connected to the system via this port. So is an external PS/2 mouse to the system as another pointing device choice.

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