Gericom N38W2, N30W User Manual
July 2000
The information in this document is subject to change without notice and
should not be construed as a commitment by the manufacturer.
The manufacturer assumes no responsibility for any errors that might appear in
this document.
The software described in this document is furnished under a license and may
be used or copied only in accordance with the terms of such license. No
responsibility is assumed for the use or reliability of software or equipment that
is not supplied by the manufacturer or its affiliated companies.
Restricted Rights: Use, duplication, or disclosure by the U.S. Government is
subject to restrictions as set forth in subparagraph (c) (1) (ii) of the Rights in
Technical Data and Computer Software clause at DFARS 252.227-7013.
© Compal Electronics 1999. All Rights Reserved.
Pentium is a registered trademark of Intel Corporation.
MS-DOS and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
Sound Blaster is a registered trademark of Creative Labs Corporation.
Macrovision is a registered trademark of Macrovision Corporation.
ATI is a registered trademark of ATI Technology Inc.
ESS and Maestro are registered trademarks of ESS Technology Inc.
All other trademarks and registered trademarks are the property of their
respective holders.
i
The FCC wants you to know...
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.
Any changes or modifications made to this equipment may void the user’s
authority to operate this equipment.
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.
• All external cables connecting to this basic unit must be shielded. For
cables connecting to PCMCIA cards, see the option manual or installation
instructions.
ii
Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
PART 68 Warning
This equipment complies with Part 68 of the FCC Rules. On the bottom of the
computer is a label that contains, among other information, the FCC
Registration Number and Ringer Equivalence Number (REN) for this
equipment. You must, upon request, provide this information to your
telephone company.
FCC Part 68 Registration Number:
REN:
The REN is useful to determine the quantity of devices you may connect to
your telephone and still have all of those devices ring when your number is
called. In most, but not all areas, the sum of the REN’s of all devices should
not exceed five (5.0). To be certain of the number of devices you may connect
to your line, as determined by the REN, you should call your local telephone
company to determine the maximum REN for your calling area.
If your MODEM causes harm to the telephone network, the local Telephone
Company may discontinue your service temporarily. If possible, they will
notify you in advance. However, if advanced notice isn’t practical, you will be
notified as soon as possible. You will be informed of your right to file a
complaint with the FCC.
Your telephone company may make changes in its facilities, equipment,
operations, or procedures the could affect the proper functioning for your
equipment. If they do, you will be notified in advance to give you an
opportunity to maintain uninterrupted telephone service.
iii
CANADIAN DOC NOTICE
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise
emissions from digital apparatus as set out in the Radio Interference
Regulation of the Canadian Department of Communications.
"Le présent appareil numérique n’èmet pas de bruits radioélectriques dépassant
les limites applicables aux appareils numériques de la class B prescrites dans le
Règlement sur le brouillage radioélectrique édicté par le ministère des
Communications du Canada"
Macrovision License of Notice
This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by
method claims of certain U.S. patents and other intellectual rights owned by
Macrovision Corporation, and other rights owners. Use of this copyright
protection technology must be authorized by Macrovision Corporation, and is
intended for home and other limited viewing uses only unless otherwise
authorized by Macrovision Corporation. Reverse engineering or disassembly
is prohibited.
Dolby License of Notice
Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories.
iv
Table of Contents
Chapter 1 ............................................................................................................. 1
Introducing the Notebook ......................................................................................................... 1
Features and Controls ............................................................................................................. 2
Optional Devices .................................................................................................................... 7
Unpacking & Checking the Equipment .................................................................................. 7
Identifying Parts of the Notebook........................................................................................... 8
Installation and Initial Setup ................................................................................................. 16
Chapter 2 ........................................................................................................... 21
The BIOS Setup Program ....................................................................................................... 21
Introduction .......................................................................................................................... 21
Navigating through the BIOS Setup Program ...................................................................... 22
The Main Menu .................................................................................................................... 26
The System Devices Menu ................................................................................................... 29
The Security Menu ............................................................................................................... 34
The Power Menu .................................................................................................................. 36
The Boot Menu..................................................................................................................... 40
The Exit Menu ...................................................................................................................... 41
Chapter 3 ........................................................................................................... 45
Operation ................................................................................................................................. 45
Introduction .......................................................................................................................... 45
Video Display Controls ........................................................................................................ 45
Some Important Keys on the Keyboard ................................................................................ 46
Cursor Control Keys and Editing Keys ................................................................................ 48
The Function Keys ............................................................................................................... 49
Embedded Numeric Keypad ................................................................................................. 50
Hot Keys for System Control ............................................................................................... 51
The System Status Indicator Panel ....................................................................................... 52
Definition Tables for the LED Status Indicators .................................................................. 54
Battery Charging Control ..................................................................................................... 56
Using the Touch Pad ............................................................................................................ 56
v
The FIR Module ................................................................................................................... 58
Multimedia Sound System .................................................................................................... 60
The CD-ROM Module ......................................................................................................... 62
Audio Volume Control ......................................................................................................... 63
Chapter 4 ........................................................................................................... 65
Peripherals ............................................................................................................................... 65
Additional Equipment .......................................................................................................... 65
Connecting Peripheral Devices ............................................................................................ 69
Chapter 5 ........................................................................................................... 77
The Power System.................................................................................................................... 77
The AC Adapter ................................................................................................................... 78
The Battery Power System ................................................................................................... 79
Removing the Battery Pack .................................................................................................. 81
Inserting the Battery Pack..................................................................................................... 82
Automatic Battery Pack Charging Function ......................................................................... 83
AC Power Connection .......................................................................................................... 84
Using Battery Power ............................................................................................................. 85
Battery Status Indicator ........................................................................................................ 85
Low Battery Activity ............................................................................................................ 87
Small Battery for Real Time Clock ...................................................................................... 87
Power Management Habits ................................................................................................... 87
Power Management Modes .................................................................................................. 89
Controllable Features ........................................................................................................... 93
Smart CPU Mode ................................................................................................................. 94
Cover Lid Switch .................................................................................................................. 94
Reactivating From Power Saving Modes ............................................................................. 94
Power Management Summary .............................................................................................. 95
The APM Interface ............................................................................................................... 96
The Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) .................................................. 97
vi
Chapter 6 ........................................................................................................... 97
Expansion Options .................................................................................................................. 97
System Memory Expansion .................................................................................................. 97
Installing Memory Cards ...................................................................................................... 97
Removing and Installing Modules ...................................................................................... 100
Replacing the Battery Module ............................................................................................ 102
Removing and Installing HDD Modules ............................................................................ 101
Removing and Installing the HDD Module ........................................................................ 103
Removing and Installing a Mini PCI Card ......................................................................... 106
The I/O Port Replicator ...................................................................................................... 106
The AC Adapter and Peripherals Connection..................................................................... 108
The Notebook to I/O Port Replicator Connection .............................................................. 108
Removing the Notebook from the I/O Port Replicator ....................................................... 110
I/O Replicator Specifications ............................................................................................. 111
Chapter 7 ......................................................................................................... 113
Software ................................................................................................................................. 113
Driver Installation ............................................................................................................... 113
VGA Device Driver Installation ......................................................................................... 114
Audio Device Driver Installation........................................................................................ 115
Mini PCI Modem Device Driver Installation ..................................................................... 119
Touch Pad Driver Installation ............................................................................................ 123
Chapter 8 ......................................................................................................... 129
Caring for your Notebook ..................................................................................................... 129
General Maintenance .......................................................................................................... 129
Cleaning the Computer ....................................................................................................... 130
Safety Precautions .............................................................................................................. 133
Appendix A ...................................................................................................... 135
Troubleshooting ..................................................................................................................... 135
An Approach to Troubleshooting ....................................................................................... 136
I/O Connections .................................................................................................................. 138
Appendix B ...................................................................................................... 139
Specifications ......................................................................................................................... 139
vii
Table of Figures
Figure 1-1: Right Front View with Display Panel Closed ............................................................. 8
Figure 1-2: Left Front View with Display Panel Closed ............................................................. 10
Figure 1-3: Rear View of Notebook ............................................................................................ 12
Figure 1-4: Right Front View with Display Panel Open .............................................................. 13
Figure 1-5: System Status Indicator Panel ................................................................................... 14
Figure 1-6: Connecting the Power Cord and the AC Adapter ..................................................... 16
Figure 2-1: The Setup Main Menu .............................................................................................. 26
Figure 2-2: The System Devices Menu ....................................................................................... 29
Figure 2-3: The Security Menu.................................................................................................... 34
Figure 2-4: The Power Menu....................................................................................................... 36
Figure 2-5: The Boot Menu ......................................................................................................... 40
Figure 2-6: The Exit Menu .......................................................................................................... 41
Figure 3-1: The Keyboard Layout ............................................................................................... 46
Figure 3-2: Cursor Control and Text Editing Keys ..................................................................... 48
Figure 3-3: The Embedded Numeric Keypad .............................................................................. 50
Figure 3-4: The System Status Indicators .................................................................................... 52
Figure 3-5: The Touch Pad .......................................................................................................... 56
Figure 3-6: The FIR (Fast Infrared Module) ............................................................................... 58
Figure 4-1: Connecting an External Monitor to the Notebook’s VGA Port ................................ 69
Figure 4-2: Connecting a Printer to the Notebook’s Parallel Port ............................................... 70
Figure 4-3: Connecting a Mouse to the Notebook’s Serial Port .................................................. 71
Figure 4-4: Connecting an External Keyboard to the Notebook’s PS/2 Port ............................... 72
Figure 4-5: Inserting and Ejecting a PCMCIA Card ................................................................... 73
Figure 4-6: Connecting a USB Device ........................................................................................ 75
Figure 5-1: The Notebook’s AC Power Adapter ......................................................................... 78
Figure 5-2: The Notebook’s Battery System ............................................................................... 79
viii
Figure 5-3: Removing the Battery Pack....................................................................................... 81
Figure 5-4: Inserting the Battery Pack ......................................................................................... 82
Figure 5-5: Connecting the AC Adapter to the Notebook’s AC port ............................................ 84
Figure 6-1: Removing the Memory Door and Installing the Memory Card................................. 99
Figure 6-2: Removing the CD-ROM Module ............................................................................. 100
Figure 6-3: Installing the CD-ROM Module .............................................................................. 101
Figure 6-4: Removing the HDD Module (A) ............................................................................ 102
Figure 6-5: Removing the HDD Module (B) ............................................................................. 103
Figure 6-6: Replacing the HDD Module ................................................................................... 103
Figure 6-7: Removing the FDD Module (A) ............................................................................. 105
Figure 6-8: Removing the FDD Module (B) ............................................................................. 106
Figure 6-9: Installing a Mini PCI Cards .................................................................................... 108
Figure 6-10: The I/O Replicator’s Ports .................................................................................... 109
Figure 6-11: Connecting the Notebook to the I/O Port Replicator ............................................ 111
Figure 6-12: Removing the Notebook from the I/O Replicator ................................................. 112
ix
Abbreviations
Abbreviation Meaning
ACPI
APM
BIOS
CMOS
DIMM
DMA
DRAM
DVD
EDO RAM
IDE
FIR
GB
ISA
KB
LCD
MB
MIDI
MPEG
MS-DOS
PCI
PCMCIA
POST
PnP
RAM
RAMDAC
ROM
VGA
SVGA
UART
XGA
YUV
Advanced Configuration and Power Interface
Advanced Power Management (This Notebook supports APM 1.2)
Basic Input/Output System
Complementary Metal Oxide Semi-conductor
Dual In-line Memory Module
Direct Memory Access
Dynamic Random Access Memory
Digital Versatile Disc
Extended Data Out Random Access Memory
Integrated Drive Electronics (internal hard disk drive interface)
Fast Infrared
Gigabyte (1GB = 1,073,741,824 bytes or 1,024MB)
Industry Standard Architecture
Kilobyte (1KB = 1,024 bytes)
Liquid Crystal Display
Megabyte (1MB = 1,048,576 bytes or 1,024KB)
Musical Instrument Digital Interface
Motion Picture Experts Group
Microsoft Disk Operating System
Peripheral Component Interconnect
Personal Computer Memory Card International Association
Power On Self-Test
Plug and Play
Random Access Memory
Random Access Memory Digital to Analog Converter
Read Only Memory
Video Graphics Array
Super Video Graphics Array
Universal Asynchronous Receiver Transmitter
Extended Graphics Array
The video native signal format
x
ABOUT THIS GUIDE
This guide describes how to operate, configure, and troubleshoot the Notebook computer. With this easy to use guide, you will be able to quickly
familiarize yourself with all aspects of the Notebook computer.
Organization
This guide contains the following:
Chapter 1: Introducing the Notebook - This chapter identifies the external
components of the Notebook and provides a quick reference to the Notebook
functions. It also shows you how to get the Notebook up and running for the
first time and covers creating a comfortable working environment.
Chapter 2: The BIOS Setup Program - This section introduces the Setup
program, discusses how to move around in the Setup program, as well as how
to specify and save your new settings. A detailed list of the optional settings
among the different menus is also provided.
Chapter 3: Operation - This chapter provides information pertaining to the
Video Display Controls used to adjust the LCD screen’s appearance. Also
included in this chapter is a brief overview of the keyboard, the System Status
Indicator Panel, the touch pad, the FIR module, and a description of the audio
features of the Notebook.
Chapter 4: Peripheral Devices - This chapter overviews the peripherals that
can be connected to the Notebook, the necessary requirements for using these
peripherals with your Notebook and instructions on how to connect these
devices to your Notebook.
Chapter 5: Power System - This chapter contains information on the
Notebook’s power system, including the AC Adapter, the battery system,
recharging the battery, and tips for conserving battery power. Also included is
a detailed description of power management.
Chapter 6: Expansion Options - This chapter describes the optional
equipment that can be added to the basic Notebook system. Also covered in
this chapter is step-by-step information on installing and removing the optional
modules that can be inserted in the Notebook.
Chapter 7: Software - This chapter provides step-by-step instructions for
installing Windows 98 device drivers.
xi
Chapter 8: Caring for Your Notebook - This chapter covers some of the basic
maintenance procedures you may want to familiarize yourself with. It
introduces proper methods of cleaning the case, the screen, the FDD drive, as
well as some helpful tips on handling diskettes.
Appendix A: Troubleshooting - In a question and answer format, this section
provides you with solutions to possible problems that may arise.
Appendix B: Technical Specifications - This appendix lists your Notebook
computer’s operating specifications.
Special Notices
Three kinds of special notices are used in this guide to emphasize specific
information.
Provides additional information.
Indicates the presence of a hazard that can cause damage to
the Notebook or other equipment.
xii
Alerts you to a condition that may hamper the performance
of the Notebook.
C
HAPTER
INTRODUCING THE NOTEBOOK
Your new Notebook features the most innovative advances in portable
computing technology. It combines state-of-the-art ergonomics with
sophisticated architecture to provide you with a personal computer that is
compact, powerful, and easy to use.
The modular design of the Notebook provides maximum expandability without
compromising portability. The high-performance Pentium III CPU and PCI
hard drive provide you with the extra processing power needed to handle
complex graphics and large sound files. Two PCMCIA slots give you the
ability to use standard PCMCIA cards, such as a LAN adapter or memory
cards. The Notebook’s CD-ROM located on the front panel of the Notebook
for easy access provides access to a greater variety of graphics and multimedia
software.
1
This User’s Guide describes all the features of the Notebook in an easy-to-read
yet thorough manner. The primary goals of this chapter are to identify the
Notebook’s external components and to provide a quick reference of the
Notebook functions for experienced computer users.
Notebook User’s Guide
Features and Controls
This section provides an overview of the Notebook’s features. For more
detailed information see the Specifications section in Appendix B. Your
Notebook includes the following features:
CPU
The microprocessor (CPU) is the heart and brain of the computer. It performs
all the computing functions and orchestrates the actions of the system. Your
Notebook features the state-of-the-art Pentium III with the Intel 440BX system
controller chip set .
CPU upgrades are possible. Changing a CPU requires much skill and
knowledge. If you are not absolutely sure that you have the capability to
change a CPU by yourself, let your Notebook dealer do it for you. Removing
the CPU in an improper way may damage the Notebook’s main board,
resulting in costly repairs.
FDD Module
The FDD can use either 720KB double density or 1.44MB high-density 3.5inch floppy diskettes. Floppy diskettes are useful for making backups of your
program diskettes and data files. The FDD can be replaced with an optional
LS120 module.
CD-ROM Module
The Notebook is equipped with a 24X (or faster) CD-ROM drive. The CDROM can be replaced with an optional DVD or ZIP module.
Hard Drive
The Notebook comes with a 2.5"/9.5mm, or 12.7mm high hard disk (up to
16GB) installed. Features include an HDD interface with PCI Bus Master IDE
and support for Ultra 33 synchronous DMA (ATA-33) and PIO Mode 4 timing.
Consult your dealer to find out the capacity of the hard drive installed in your
Notebook.
2
Chapter 1: Introducing the Notebook
LCD VGA Display
Your Notebook’s VGA display is one of three models:
• Color TFT-14.1" LCD panel supporting 1024 x 768 XGA resolution
• Color TFT-15.0" LCD panel supporting 1024 x 768 XGA resolution
• Color TFT-15.0" LCD panel supporting 1280 x 1024 SXGA resolution
VGA Graphics Accelerator and Video Subsystem
This Notebook is equipped with ATI 3D RAGE Mobility-P for N30W and
ATI 3D RAGE Mobility-M3 for N38W2 VGA AGP controller chip offering
the following features:
• AGP 2X Bus Architecture (133MHz)
• Integrated 230MHz DAC
• Integrated ImpacTV2-quality TV output
• Integrated dual-channel 112MHz LVDS transmitter
• Supports Tri-View architecture allowing for simultaneous video output to
LCD/CRT/TV displays
• Superior 2D performance with 125MHz SGRAM
• Superior 3D acceleration achieved through a hardware setup engine and a
4KB on-chip texture cache
• Support for 4 or 8 MB of SGRAM Display Memory for N30W and supports
16 MB Display Memory for N38W2
• ACPI compliant Dynamic Power Management features
• Full motion soft DVD using motion compensation circuitry
• Capture and MPEG support with Zoom Video (ZV) port video input
• Plug and play monitor support
• Fully compliant with PC98 and PC99
87/88-key Enhanced Keyboard
The Notebook’s keyboard has a standard QWERTY layout with the addition of
special function keys. It is available in either 87 or 88-key layouts that emulate
a full-size desktop 101/102-key keyboard. The keyboard features an
embedded numeric keypad for number-intensive data entry, with independent
[Page Down], [Page Up], [Home], and [End] keys.
Windows 95/98 Enhanced Keyboard
The keyboard supports Windows 95/98 by incorporating two Windows
specific keys. With these keys you will be able to access and take advantage of
many of the time-saving features offered by Windows 95/98.
3
Notebook User’s Guide
The Touch Pad
The Notebook features a touch pad pointing device with two buttons. This
pressure-sensitive pointing device allows you to move the cursor around the
screen and make selections just as one would with a conventional mouse. A
unique function called double tapping allows you to make selections within a
software program or execute software applications without having to remove
your hands from the touch-type position. Please see the Touch Pad section in
Chapter 3 for more information on the operation of the Notebook’s pointing
device.
Connectors
The Notebook has a number of connector (Input/Output) ports for attaching
peripherals to the computer, including the following:
• A 6-pin connector for a full-size keyboard or a PS/2 mouse
• Three audio jacks: External Mic (Mic-in), Headphone-out and Line-in
• A 15-pin CRT (monitor) port
• A standard 9-pin serial port (16550 compatible) supports a variety of serial
devices such as a mouse or MODEM.
• A 25-pin parallel port that is most commonly used to connect a printer or
Pocket LAN to the computer. The parallel port supports both EPP and ECP
capabilities.
• A 240-pin docking connector with 32-bit PCI bus and hot docking support
• Two ACPI-compliant PCMCIA expansion sockets provide an interface for
two Type II cards, or one Type III card. PC cards accommodate a number
of expansion options, including memory cards, MODEMs, hard disks, and
network adapters.
• One 2-pin connector for an AC Adapter power jack
• Built-in IrDA FIR (Fast Infrared) transmitter/receivers for wireless
communications
• One built-in microphone
• Two built-in speakers
• One 4-pin Universal Serial Bus (USB) connector
• One TV-Out (S-type) port
• RJ-11 MODEM port
4
Chapter 1: Introducing the Notebook
PCMCIA Sockets
An ACPI-compliant PCMCIA R2.0 host adapter supports one type III
PCMCIA card or two type II PCMCIA cards. The PCMCIA sockets support
hot insertion and removal and can accommodate SRAM, OTPROM,
FLASHROM and Mask ROM memory cards of up to 64MB, MODEM/LAN
cards and 10.5mm removable HDD.
Battery and AC Power System
To power the Notebook, you can use an AC Adapter or the rechargeable
battery pack module. The system will automatically recharge the battery pack
in the Notebook by using the AC Adapter. For information on recharging the
battery while simultaneously using the Notebook, see the section in this chapter
on installation and initial setup. By using the power management features
described in Chapter 5, the Notebook can operate on battery power for
approximately 3 hours. The battery pack takes approximately 2 hours to
recharge when the computer is turned off. It takes 2.5 hours to recharge when
the computer is in use. For extended battery-powered operation, additional
battery modules may be purchased.
Upgradable Memory
The Notebook is equipped with two SODIMM connectors, allowing for a
maximum of 256MB of system memory to be installed. This memory
configuration is achieved by installing two 32MB, 64MB or 128MB 3.3V
SDRAM 144-pin SO-DIMM memory module. Refer to the System Memory
Expansion and Installing Memory Cards sections in Chapter 6 for detailed
information on upgrading system memory. After reviewing the appropriate
sections, if you are not completely confident that you have the skill to install
memory modules by yourself, please consult your Notebook dealer or
technician.
Built-in Level 2 Cache RAM
The Notebook provides 256KB (for Pentium III) or 128K (for Celeron) L2
Cache RAM that will enhance system performance, especially in the Windows
environment.
Keyboard Controls
The Notebook provides a host of hot key features that are a permanent part of
the computer’s operation. Some affect the LCD video display, while others
control the sound volume. A complete list of the Notebook’s hot key functions
is provided in Chapter 3.
5
Notebook User’s Guide
Power Management
The Notebook features sophisticated power management built into the BIOS
Setup program. These features are designed to conserve power and extend the
life of the battery between charges.
FIR Port
For convenience, the Notebook features an FIR Port (on the rear panel) that
allows wireless, serial communication between the Notebook and other FIR
equipped devices such as a printer or another computer. The FIR Port allows
both the sending and receiving of data.
Audio Features
The Notebook’s audio features include:
• ESS Maestro-2E digital audio controller (Sound Pro™ and Windows Sound
System™ compatible)
• 64-channel wavetable synthesizer
• Proprietary WaveCache technology
• HRTF 3-D positional audio under DirectX™ 5.0
• A sophisticated on-board 16-bit stereo FM sound generator featuring
enhanced stereo and full-duplex playback and record with internal playback
and record buffer
• Sample rate conversion from 8Khz to 48Khz
• Secondary CODEC Interface
• DVD AC-3 Speaker Virtualization
• Two integrated speakers and an internal microphone
• Stereo inputs for Line-in and Line-out and a mono input for the microphone
• Software/Hardware Master Volume Control
• Programmable Power Management
• MIDI serial port compatible with MPU401 UART mode
• I2S interface to internal stereo D/A for external ZV port or MPEG audio
• PC98 compliant with full PnP support
• Complies with Microsoft ACPI 1.0 and PPMI 1.0 (DO-D3) and APM 1.2
• Legacy DOS Game support
6
Optional Devices
There are several optional products you can purchase to further enhance the
utility and versatility of your Notebook computer.
• HDD Module (factory option)
• CD-ROM Module
• DVD Module
• LS120 Module (factory option) for N30W, N38W2 don’t support
• Zip Module
• Mini PCI 56K Data/Fax/Modem (factory option)
• TV-out Adapter
• S-Type TV Video and Audio cable
• Docking Station
(Port Replicator / Enhanced Port Replicator / Docking Station TBD)
• Extra memory modules (32, 64, 128MB 144-pin 3.3V SODIMM)
• Li-Ion Main Battery Pack
• Li-Ion Secondary Battery Pack
• External Battery Charger
Chapter 1: Introducing the Notebook
Unpacking & Checking the Equipment
Before unpacking the Notebook, prepare a clean, stable surface on which to
place the contents of your Notebook’s shipping container. Altogether, you
should find the following items in the Notebook package:
• The Notebook Computer (with one battery pack already installed)
• FDD Module
• CD-ROM Module
• An AC Adapter
• A Power Cord
• A Carrying Bag (optional)
• Support Diskettes/CD
• This User’s Manual
Remove all the items from the container. If anything is missing or broken,
inform your dealer immediately. You should save the packaging; if you ever
need to ship your Notebook or send it in for service, the shipping container
will definitely be useful.
7
Notebook User’s Guide
4
10
Identifying Parts of the Notebook
The illustrations that follow identify the various features and external
components of the Notebook computer. Familiarizing yourself with these
terms will help you as you read the rest of the manual.
Right Front View (Panel Closed)
1
2
3
Figure 1-1: Right Front View with Display Panel Closed
1. Removable Battery Module
Your Notebook comes equipped with a factory-installed battery pack module.
After the battery runs down, the module can be removed and replaced with a
charged battery. Additional battery packs can also be purchased as optional
equipment.
2. CD-ROM Module
Your Notebook comes equipped with a factory-installed CD-ROM module.
8
The CD-ROM module can be removed and replaced
with an optional DVD, ZIP or secondary battery
module. Contact your Notebook PC dealer for more
5
6
7
9
8
Chapter 1: Introducing the Notebook
information.
3. Removable HDD Module
Your Notebook comes equipped with a factory-installed HDD module. If you
find that your Notebook is running low on disk space, the HDD can be
removed an replaced with a higher capacity HDD (up to 16GB).
4. Kensington Lock
This port is for locking the Notebook PC to a desk for security.
5. LCD Panel Release Button
The Notebook has two LCD panel release buttons located on the left and right
side panels. To open the Notebook, slide these release buttons forward. This
will release the LCD panel latches. Now raise the panel to its open position as
shown in Figure 1-4. Note that the Notebook’s LCD panel can be adjusted to
an angle ranging from 0° to 180°. Adjust the LCD panel for a comfortable
viewing angle.
6. Internal Stereo Speaker
The Notebook provides three audio-output choices: wearing headphones
connected to the audio Headphone-out jack for private listening; connecting
external stereo speakers to the audio Headphone-out jack for high quality
sound; or for convenience, using the internal stereo speakers.
7. Power Kill Button
Pressing this button will shut down the system. All unsaved data will be lost.
8. PCMCIA Socket Eject Buttons
Push the upper button to release a PCMCIA Type I or Type II card from the
upper slot. Push the lower button to release a PCMCIA Type I, Type II, or a
Type III card from the lower socket.
9. PCMCIA sockets
Insert PCMCIA Type I, Type II, or Type III cards into these sockets.
10. AC Power Jack
Connect the AC Adapter power cord to this jack.
9
Notebook User’s Guide
3
4
5
6
7
8
Left Front View (Panel Closed)
1
2
10
Figure 1-2: Left Front View with Display Panel Closed
1. FDD Module or LS120 Module
Your Notebook comes equipped with a factory-installed FDD module or
LS120 Module. Insert 3.5-inch floppy diskettes into the floppy disk drive.
Press the eject button eject a diskette from the floppy disk drive. This button
only pops out when a diskette is inserted into the drive.
2. Audio Line-in Connector
This stereo jack is used to connect an external audio source to the Notebook.
3. External Mic Connector
This stereo jack is used to connect an external microphone.
The FDD module can be removed and replaced with an
optional LS120 module. Contact your Notebook PC
dealer for more information.
Chapter 1: Introducing the Notebook
4. Audio Headphone-out Connector
This stereo jack is used to connect external speakers or headphones. Please
refer to Chapter 3 for information on using Audio control hot keys.
5. RJ-11 MODEM Port
Connect a phone line to this port to make use of the Notebook’s optional
Fax/MODEM MiniPCI card. Refer to Chapter 4, Peripherals for more
information.
6. Internal Stereo Speaker
The Notebook provides three audio-output choices: wearing headphones
connected to the audio Headphone-out jack for private listening; connecting
external stereo speakers to the audio Headphone-out jack for high quality
sound; or for convenience, using the internal stereo speakers.
7. LCD Panel Release Button
The Notebook has two LCD panel release buttons located on the left and right
side panels. To open the Notebook, slide these release buttons forward. This
will release the LCD panel latches.
The Audio jacks are three-terminal stereo jacks but are
used as two terminal mono jacks. They are not
compatible with two-terminal mono plugs.
An optional MiniPCI MODEM module must be installed
in order for the MODEM to function. The RJ-11
MODEM Port will be disabled if the optional MiniPCI
MODEM module is not installed.
Rear View
8. Hardware Master Volume Control
This control regulates the audio volume output. Press the right side of the
control to increase the volume by increments. Press the left side of the control
to decrease the volume by increments.
11
Notebook User’s Guide
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2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Several I/O ports are located on the rear side of the Notebook. Starting from
left to right, the rear-side ports are introduced below. Please refer to Figure 1-
3 for assistance in locating these ports.
Figure 1-3: Rear View of Notebook
1. Serial (COM) Port
This port is used to connect RS-232 serial devices to the Notebook. Three
types of serial devices are mice, serial printers, and MODEMs.
2. Parallel (LPT1) Port
This port is normally used to connect a printer to the Notebook.
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3. TV-out Port
Connect a Television set to this port to view the Notebook’s display output on
your TV.
4. VGA Display Port
This port is used to connect an external monitor (CRT) to the Notebook.
5. I/O Port Replicator Connector
This port is for connecting the Notebook to its proprietary I/O Port Replicator.
6. FIR Port
The FIR Module allows wireless communication (transmission and receiving)
between the Notebook and another FIR-equipped computer or between the
Notebook and another FIR-equipped device, such as a printer.
7. Universal Serial Bus (USB) Port
Connect any USB compliant device to this port.
8. External Keyboard or PS/2 Mouse Port
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2
3
4
5
7
This port is for connecting either an external keyboard or a PS/2 mouse.
Right Front View (Panel Open)
The Notebook has two LCD panel release buttons located on the left and right
side panels. To open the Notebook, slide these release buttons forward. This
will release the LCD panel latches. Please refer to Figure 1-1 and Figure 1-2
to locate the LCD panel release button. Raise the cover to its open position.
Figure 1-4 shows the Notebook in the open position with the external parts
labeled. As mentioned earlier, the cover can be adjusted to an angle of 0° to
180°. Adjust the LCD cover for a comfortable viewing angle.
Chapter 1: Introducing the Notebook
6
Figure 1-4: Right Front View with Display Panel Open
1. LCD Screen
The screen is a color TFT or DSTN LCD.
13
Notebook User’s Guide
2. System Status Indicators
The System Status indicators inform you of the Notebook’s current operating
status at a glance. The different LED indicators are from left to right: AC
Power, Battery Power, HDD Activity, Numlock, Caps Lock, and Scroll Lock.
Refer to chapter 3 for a detailed description of these indicators.
Figure 1-5: System Status Indicator Panel
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3. Built-in Microphone
The microphone can be used to record music, voice, and sound files.
4. Power Button
Press this button to turn the computer on or off.
5. Keyboard
Your keyboard is either an 87-key US version or an 88-key international
version depending on the Notebook you purchased.
The AC Power, Battery Power, and HDD Activity LED
indicators can be viewed near the panel hinge when
the panel cover is closed.
Chapter 1: Introducing the Notebook
6. Touch Pad
The touch pad is a pressure sensitive pointing device that provides all the
features of a mouse. Although its operation differs from a mouse, its function
is quite the same: to move the cursor around the screen. Please refer to Using
the Touch Pad, in Chapter 3 for more information.
7. Suspend/Resume Lid Switch
There are three ways to enter the system into Suspend mode. One is to
automatically enter Suspend mode. The system will enter Suspend mode based
upon the settings made in the Basic Input Output System (BIOS) Setup
program. Although it sounds intimidating, Setup is a simple program to use. It
is covered in detail in Chapter 2.
In the second method, the Suspend/Resume is activated by using the cover
switch. Assuming an external monitor is not connected to the Notebook and
the Notebook is powered on, closing the lid will cause the system to
automatically enter the Suspend mode.
In the third method, the user can activate suspend or resume by pressing a hot
key. Pressing [Fn] + [R] suspends to RAM, and pressing [Fn] + [F12]
suspends to disk. The user can press the power button to resume full power
operation.
For more information on Suspend modes, please see Chapter 5, Power
Management Modes.
15
Notebook User’s Guide
Installation and Initial Setup
If you are unfamiliar with computers, this section guides you through turning
on your Notebook for the first time. This section also explains what you need
to do after turning on your Notebook. Experienced computer users may need
only read this section while using the rest of the manual merely as a reference.
Connecting the AC Power Adapter
There are two possible ways of powering the Notebook. One is by an internal
battery module and the second is by connecting the Notebook’s AC Adapter.
This chapter will focus on the AC connection. Figure 1-6 illustrates this
connection. For information on using battery power, please refer to Chapter 5.
Figure 1-6: Connecting the Power Cord and the AC Adapter
An AC Connection
To power the Notebook by using the external AC Adapter, please refer to
Figure 1-6 and the following instructions:
1. Insert the end of the AC Adapter output cable into the Notebook’s AC port.
Figure 1-6 illustrates this connection. Do not force a connection.
2. The port on the AC Adapter module is shaped like a figure eight with two
pins protruding from it. Connect the power cable to this port.
3. The best power source that you can connect any computer device to is a
UPS (uninterruptable power supply). Your Notebook dealer will be able to
provide you specifics as far as the price and performance of different
brands of UPS devices. If you do not own a UPS and have no desire to
purchase one, your next best power source is an extension cord that has its
own built-in electrical surge protector. If you don’t have an extension cord
with a built-in electrical surge protector, you can plug the AC Adapter
directly into a grounded electrical outlet.
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4. Plug the Notebook into its power source and press the On/Off button. If
the Notebook does not power up, check the connections between the wall
outlet, the AC Adapter, and the Notebook. If the Notebook still does not
power up, please refer to Appendix A, Troubleshooting.
5. To turn the Notebook off, save your work and close all open applications,
click on Start, then Shut Down. In the Shut Down Windows dialog box
select Shut down the computer and click Yes.
If you travel to an area with a different electric power standard, check to make
sure whether that voltage system is compatible with your Notebook’s power
requirements before plugging it into an AC power source. You can use an
adapter plug that interfaces between your system cables and the electrical wall
outlet of the foreign country you are visiting. If you are unsure about this,
please consult your Notebook dealer or support technician.
Your Notebook is equipped with one rechargeable battery pack, which has
already been installed. Please refer to the Power Management section of
Chapter 5 for further coverage of the rechargeable battery and how to optimize
you Notebook PC for battery operation.
The Power On Self Test (POST)
Chapter 1: Introducing the Notebook
When you turn on the computer, it will first run through a series of softwarecontrolled diagnostic tests called the Power On Self Test (POST). The
software that controls the POST is installed as a permanent part of the
computer’s architecture. The POST includes a record of the computer’s
hardware that is used to make a diagnostic check of the system. This record is
created by using the BIOS Setup program. If the POST discovers a difference
between the record and the existing hardware, it will display a message on the
screen prompting you to correct the conflict by running the BIOS Setup
program. Refer to Chapter 2, for instructions on how to run the BIOS Setup
program.
In most cases, the record should be correct when you receive the computer. If
so, the POST will finish and the computer will look for an Operating System to
load into memory. The self test will run every time you turn on the computer.
When the test is finished, you should get a message indicating that there is a
non-system disk or disk error. This indicates that the hard disk is ready to be
prepared for use with the operating system you intend to use. After you
prepare the hard disk for use, you should not see this message again unless you
try to start the computer with a non-system floppy disk inserted in the floppy
drive.
17
Notebook User’s Guide
Installing an Operating System
When starting the computer for the first time, please be aware that you must
have an Operating System (OS) program installed on the hard drive. You
probably have an OS program already installed on your Notebook. If your
dealer did not install an OS for you, please consult your OS Software manuals
for instructions on how to install an OS onto your hard disk drive.
Preparing the Notebook for Transport
To prepare the computer for transport, you should first disconnect all
peripherals. Make sure the computer is turned off before you do this. Make
sure the floppy drive does not contain a diskette. When a diskette is inserted in
the floppy drive, the eject button pops out. If you attempt to transport the
Notebook with a diskette in the drive, you risk damaging the eject button.
The computer has an optional soft carrying case. It will keep out dirt and dust
and protect the casing of your Notebook from becoming scratched or cracked.
If you intend to use battery power, be sure to fully charge the battery pack and
any spares. Remember the Adapter charges the battery pack as long as it is
plugged into the computer and an AC power source.
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