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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

Notebook User’s Guide

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)

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.

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

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.

Notebook User’s Guide

Left Front View (Panel Closed)

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

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.

Notebook User’s Guide

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.

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

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

Figure 1-4: Right Front View with Display Panel Open

1. LCD Screen

The screen is a color TFT or DSTN LCD.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

A Word about Ergonomics

Ergonomics is the study of how people with their different physical characteristics and ways of functioning relate to their working environment (the furnishings and machines they use). The goal of Ergonomics is to incorporate comfort, efficiency, and safety into the design of keyboards, computer desks, chairs, and other items in an effort to prevent physical discomfort and health problems in the working environment. Because more and more people are spending large amounts of time in front of computer monitors, scientists from many fields including anatomy, psychology, and occupational safety are involved in the study of ergonomically sound work environments.

If your budget permits, buy ergonomically designed furniture such as chairs, shelves, and desks that fit your physical characteristics and work methods. Most furniture manufacturers have not considered the particular shape of your body when designing workstations. If you are going to be sitting for extended periods, an ergonomically designed chair may well be worth the extra expense. You can, however, create an ergonomically improved workstation without spending much money. Following are a few tips to help you work effectively without a lot of physical discomfort:

• Place the monitor so that it is a little above eye level to prevent neck strain.

• Try to place the monitor so that there is little glare from the sun on the

monitor.

• Use a thick book as a footrest.

• Walk around the room every hour.

• Every half-hour, look away from the computer screen for a few minutes.

• Place everything that you need to work within easy reach.

Chapter 1: Introducing the Notebook

Notebook User’s Guide

Hot Keys for System Control

The following table lists the hot key functions for the Notebook computer.

Key Combinations Definitions

[Fn] +  Increases display brightness [Fn] +  Decreases display brightness [Fn] + [PageUp] Increases audio volume output [Fn] + [PageDn] Decreases audio volume output [Fn] + [F8] Switches among LCD, external monitor, and

[Fn] + [End] Toggles the mute function on and off. (no beep) [Fn] + [number] Pressing [Fn] plus any number on the keypad enables

[Fn] + [Esc] Pressing this hot key combination will cause the system

simultaneous displays

the embedded numeric keypad.

to enter Save to Disk mode (Hibernate mode). The function of this hot key is configured by the Windows 98 operating system.

When ACPI mode is enabled, all power management

hot keys, i.e., Fn + S/R/F12, are inactive. When using an external keyboard, the Fn key can be

simulated by pressing the left-Ctrl + left-Alt keys.

This concludes Chapter 1. The next chapter covers the BIOS Setup program.

HAPTER 2

THE BIOS SETUP PROGRAM

Introduction

The BIOS (Basic Input and Output System) Setup program is a menu driven utility that enables you to make changes to the system configuration and tailor the operation of your Notebook to your individual work needs. A ROM-based configuration utility displays the system’s configuration status and provides you with a tool to set system parameters. These parameters are stored in nonvolatile battery backed-up CMOS RAM, which saves this information even when the power is turned off. When the computer is turned back on, the system is configured with the values found in CMOS. Using easy-to-use menus, you can configure such items as:

• Hard drives, diskette drives and peripherals

• Video display options

• Password protection from unauthorized use

• Power Management Features

The settings made in the Setup program intimately affect how the Notebook performs. It is important, therefore, first to try to understand all the available options, and second, to make settings appropriate for the way you use the Notebook. This chapter will guide you through the Setup program by providing clear explanations for all Setup options.

A standard configuration has already been set in the Setup program by the factory technicians, so you will very likely have little to worry about for now. However, eventually you may want to customize your system to suit your own performance needs. It is recommended that you read this chapter and become familiar with the adjustments that can be made in the BIOS.

The next section explains how to move around in the Setup program, as well as how to specify and save your new settings. A brief discussion of the optional settings among the different submenus follows.

Notebook User’s Guide

Navigating through the BIOS Setup Program

The Setup program has been designed to make it as easy to use as possible. It is a menu driven program, which means you can scroll through the various directories and make your selections among the various predetermined choices. If you accidentally make a setting and do not know which one to switch back to, use the BIOS hot keys to return to the previous value. The hot keys are discussed in more detail later in this chapter.

When turning on the Notebook for the first time you may get a message prompting you to run the BIOS Setup program. A warning message may appear on the screen if the hardware configuration is changed or the POST fails. This message will inform you of any errors or invalid settings and prompt you to run the Setup program to correct the problem.

Even if you are not prompted by a message instructing you to use the Setup program, at some time in the future you may want to change the configuration of your computer. For example, you may want to make changes to the power management settings or enable the Notebook’s password function for security purposes. It will then be necessary to reconfigure your system using the Setup program so that the computer can recognize these changes.

The list below gives a few examples of reasons why you may want or need to run the BIOS Setup program.

• You have set up the computer for the first time and you got a message

stating that you should run the BIOS Setup program.

• You want to redefine the communication ports to prevent any conflicts.

• You want to make changes to the Power Management configuration.

• You want to change the password or make other changes to the security

setup.

The few examples listed above are by no means a complete list.

Accessing the BIOS Setup Program

To access the BIOS Setup program, press the F2 key after the Notebook has run through its POST.

The Menu Bar

The top of the Setup screen has a menu bar with the following selections:

Chapter 2: The BIOS Setup Program

Main

System Devices

Security Power

Boot

Exit

To move between menu bar items, use the [3] [4] arrow keys until the desired item is highlighted. For example, if you want to move from the Main menu to the System Devices menu, press the right arrow key [4] once. The System Devices menu item should now be highlighted.

Use this menu to make changes to the basic system configuration.

Use this menu to enable and make changes to the advanced features available on your system.

Use this menu to set System and Boot passwords. Use this menu to configure and enable Power Management

features. Use this menu to specify the order in which the Notebook is to

check for a device to boot the system. Use this menu to specify how to exit the Setup program.

The Legend Bar

At the bottom of the Setup screen, you will notice a legend bar. The keys in the legend bar allow you to navigate through the various individual setup menus. The following table lists the keys found in the legend bar with their corresponding functions:

Notebook User’s Guide

Legend Key Function

[F1] or [Alt] + [H] [Esc] [

] or [

3333

[

] or [

5555

[Tab]

[Shift]+[Tab]

[F5]

[F6] [F9] [F10] [Enter]

4444

6666

Displays the General Help window. Exits the current menu and moves you to the Exit menu.

] ]

Selects a different menu bar item. Moves the cursor up and down between fields. Cycles the cursor forward through the particular highlighted

field. If the field has only one value, the Tab key will move the selection cell down to the next field.

Cycles the cursor backward through the particular highlighted field. If the field has only one value, the [Shift]+[Tab] key combination will move the selection cell up to the previous field.

Scrolls backwards through the values for the highlighted field.

Scrolls forward through the values for the highlighted field. Sets the parameters to their default values. Saves any changes and exits Setup Executes commands or selects a submenu.

Launching Submenus

A submenu contains additional options for a field parameter. To call up a submenu, simply move the highlight to the desired field and press the [Enter] key. The submenu will then immediately appear. Use the legend keys to enter values and move from field to field within a submenu just as you would within a menu.

If you are a first time user or are not familiar with BIOS Setup programs, it is highly recommended that you take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with each of the legend keys and their corresponding functions. Practice navigating through the various menus and submenus. If you accidentally make unwanted changes to the current configuration, pressing the function key [F9] will return the activated menu to its factory set values.

Note that on the right side of each of the BIOS screens there is a section labeled Item Specific Help. While moving around through the Setup program, explanations for the currently highlighted field appear in the Item Specific Help window.

Chapter 2: The BIOS Setup Program

General Help

In addition to the Item Specific Help window, the BIOS Setup program also provides a General Help screen. This screen can be called up from any menu by simply pressing the function key [F1], or the [Alt] + [H] combination. The General Help screen lists the legend keys with their corresponding alternates and functions.

When a scroll bar appears to the right of a help window, this indicates that there is more information to be displayed that will not fit in the window. Use the [Page Up] and [Page Down] keys or the up and down arrow keys [5] [6] to scroll through the entire help document. Press [Home] to display the first page. Press [End] to go to the last page. To exit the help window, press the [Enter] or the [Esc] key.

Saving Changes and Exiting the Setup Program

Refer to the Exit Menu section of this chapter for detailed information on saving changes and exiting the Setup program.

Notebook User’s Guide

PhoenixBIOS Setup Utility

Exit

ESC



Select Menu

Enter

Select Sub-Menu

F10

Save and Exit

System Time: [14:06:00]

System Date: [06/07/1999]

The Main Menu

When the Setup program is accessed, the following screen appears:

System Devices

Main

Floppy Drive: 1.44MB, 31/2” Hard Disk: xxx xxxxxx

Quiet Boot: [Enabled] Video Display Device: [Simul Mode] Television Port: [Enabled] Television Type: [NTSC]

System Memory: 640 KB Extended Memory: 31 MB



Help

Select Item

Security

F5/F6

Power Exit

Change Values

Boot

Item Specific Help

<Tab>, <Shift-Tab>, or <Enter> selects field.

Setup Defaults

Figure 2-1: The Setup Main Menu

Enter the Main Menu of the BIOS setup program to make changes to the Notebook’s basic system configuration. Each of the fields displayed in this menu is covered below in detail.

System Time

Sets your system to the time that you specify (usually the current time). The format is hour, minute, and second. Insert the appropriate information. Use the tab key to move between the hour, minute, and second fields.

System Date

Sets your system to the date that you specify (usually the current date). The format is month, day, year. Type in the appropriate information. Use the tab key to move between the month, day, and year fields.

Floppy Drive

Specifies a drive type for diskette drive A. The system will automatically detect the existence of an FDD module. You do not need to make changes to this field. This is a display only field.

Chapter 2: The BIOS Setup Program

Hard Disk

The manufacturer and model name of your Notebook’s hard drive will be displayed in this field. You do not need to make changes to this field. This is a display only field.

Quiet Boot

This field allows you to display the diagnostic screen during bootup. There are two possible settings:

• Enabled

• Disabled

The default value for this field is: Enabled When set to Enabled, Diagnostic POST and the Summary Screen are disabled.

When set to Disabled, Diagnostic POST and the Summary Screen are enabled.

Video Display Device

This field allows you to specify the display type options. They are:

• CRT Mode

• LCD Mode

• Simul Mode

CRT Mode allows you to view the Notebook’s display on an external CRT monitor.

LCD Mode allows you to view the Notebook’s LCD display only. Simul Mode (Simultaneous Viewing Mode) allows you to simultaneously view

the Notebook’s LCD display and an external CRT monitor display. The default value for this field is: Simul Mode

Television Port

This field allows you to enable the Notebook’s TV port. There are two possible settings:

• Enabled

• Disabled

The default value for this field is: Enabled

Notebook User’s Guide

Television Type

This field allows you to define the protocol for the Notebook’s TV port. There are two possible settings:

• NTSC

• PAL

The default value for this field is: NTSC

System Memory

This field displays the amount of conventional memory detected by the system during bootup. You do not need to make changes to this field. This is a display only field.

Extended Memory

This field displays the amount of extended memory detected by the system during bootup. You do not need to make changes to this field. This is a display only field.

The System Devices Menu

Item Specific Help

Enable the integrated

local bus IDE adapter

Base I/O address/IRQ: [3F8 IRQ4]

Base I/O address/IRQ: [2F8 IRQ3]

PhoenixBIOS Setup Utility

Exit

ESC



Select Menu

Enter

Select Sub-Menu

F10

Save and Exit

Selecting System Devices from the menu bar displays the System Devices Menu. Please see Figure 2-2.

Chapter 2: The BIOS Setup Program

System Devices

Main

IDE Controller [Both] FDD Controller [Enabled] Serial Port: [Enabled]

Infrared Port: [Enabled]

Mode: [FIR] DMA channel: [DMA 3] Parallel Port: [Enabled] Mode: [ECP] Base I/O address: [378/ DMA Channel: [DMA1] Modem Port: [Installed]



Help

Select Item

Security

F5/F6

Power Exit

IRQ7]

Change Values

Boot

Setup Defaults

Figure 2-2: The System Devices Menu

This menu allows you to configure the Notebook’s IDE and FDD controllers, serial and parallel ports, as well as, IR (infrared) modes and the modem port. Each field on this menu is covered below.

IDE Controller

This field allows you to configure the IDE Controller for the Notebook’s installed hard drives. Available options for this field are:

• Disabled

• Primary

• Both

When Both is selected for this field, the IDE Controller will recognize both a primary and a secondary IDE channel. Select Disabled if no hard drives are installed. It is recommended that you use the default value for this field.

The default value for this field is: Both

Notebook User’s Guide

FDD Controller

This field allows you to configure the FDD Controller for the Notebook’s floppy disk drive. Available options for this field are:

• Disabled

• Enabled

Select Disabled if an FDD is not installed. The default value for this field is: Enabled

Serial Port

This field allows you to configure the Notebook’s serial port. The following options are available:

• Disabled

• Enabled

• Auto

The default value for this field is: Auto

Base I/O Address / IRQ

When the Serial Port field is set to Enabled, the “Base I/O Address” field becomes available and you can set the serial port’s IRQ and I/O address. The following options are available:

• 3F8, IRQ4

• 2F8, IRQ3

• 3E8, IRQ4

• 2E8, IRQ3

The default value for this field is: 3F8, IRQ4

Chapter 2: The BIOS Setup Program

Infrared Port

This field allows you to configure the Notebook’s Fast Infrared (FIR) communication module. The following configuration options are available:

• Disabled

• Enabled

• Auto

The default value for this field is: Disabled

Base I/O address / IRQ

Use this option to choose the I/O (port) address for the Infrared port. The available options are:

• 3F8, IRQ4

• 2F8, IRQ3

• 3E8, IRQ4

• 2E8, IRQ3

This field is only available when the Infrared port is set to Enabled. The default value is: 2F8, IRQ3

Mode

This field allows you to select the Infrared protocol when the Infrared port is enabled. The following configuration options are available:

• IrDA

• FIR

This field is only available when the Infrared port is set to Enabled or Auto. The default value for this field is: FIR

Notebook User’s Guide

DMA Channel (Only Available for Fast IR Mode)

This field allows you to configure the Infrared port’s DMA Channel. The following options are available:

• DMA 1

• DMA 3

This field is only available when the Infrared Port Mode field is set to FIR. The default setting is: DMA 3

Parallel Port

This field allows you to configure the Notebook’s parallel port. The following options are available:

• Disabled

• Enabled

• Auto

The default value for this field is: Auto

Changing the default address and IRQ settings for the

Serial, the Infrared Port and the Parallel Port can cause conflicts with other system devices or installed peripherals.

Mode

This field allows you to configure the Notebook’s parallel port transmission mode. The following options are available:

• Normal Mode

• Bi-directional

• ECP

• EPP

Normal mode allows data output only. However, EPP and ECP are Bidirectional modes, allowing both data input and output. The EPP and ECP modes are only supported with EPP and ECP aware peripherals.

The default value for this field is: ECP Mode

Chapter 2: The BIOS Setup Program

Base I/O address

Use this option to choose the I/O (port) address for the Parallel port. The available options are:

• 378/IRQ7

• 378/IRQ5

• 278/IRQ7

• 278/IRQ5

• 3BC/IRQ7

• 3BC/IRQ5

This field is only available when the Parallel port is set to Enabled. The default setting is: 378/IRQ7

DMA Channel (Only Available for ECP Mode)

This field allows you to configure the Parallel port’s DMA Channel for ECP mode. The following options are available:

• DMA 0

• DMA 1

• DMA 2

• DMA 3

This field is only available when the Parallel Port Mode field is set to ECP. The default value for this field is: DMA 3

Modem Port

This field indicates if a modem is installed or not. The following options are available:

• Installed

• Not Installed

Notebook User’s Guide

Item Specific Help

System Password is Clear

Set System Password [Enter]

PhoenixBIOS Setup Utility

Exit

ESC



Select Menu

Enter

Select Sub-Menu

F10

Save and Exit

The Security Menu

The Notebook’s advanced system of security allows you to set a password to prevent unauthorized access to system resources, data, and the BIOS Setup program. This section covers each parameter of the Security Menu. Selecting Security from the menu bar displays the following menu:

System Devices

Main

Password On Boot [Disabled]



Help

Select Item

Security

F5/F6

Power Exit

Change Values

Boot

Supervisor Password controls access to the setup utility.

Setup Defaults

Figure 2-3: The Security Menu

Each field of the Security Menu is covered in detail below.

A Note about Passwords

The BIOS Setup program allows you to specify passwords in the Security menu. The passwords control access to the BIOS and certain Security menu options during system startup. The passwords are not case sensitive. In other words, a password can be entered using either upper or lower case letters; it makes no difference.

System Password is

This field will show Set when you have set a System Password as described below. If you have not set the System Password, the field will show Clear. This is a display only field.

Set System Password

This field allows you to set the System Password. The System Password allows full access to the BIOS Setup menus. To set the password, highlight this field and press the [Enter] key. The following dialog box appears:

Chapter 2: The BIOS Setup Program

Set System Password

Enter New Password [ ]

Confirm New Password [ ]

Type the password and press the [Enter] key. You can type up to eight alphanumeric characters. Symbols and other keys are ignored. To confirm the password, type the password again and press the [Enter] key. The System password is now set. Note that the “System Password is” field automatically changes to Set.

To change or clear a password, highlight this field and press the [Enter] key. The following dialog box appears:

Set System Password Enter Current Password: [ ] Enter New Password: [ ] Confirm New Password: [ ]

Enter the current password, then enter the new password, and finally confirm the new password. To clear the password, enter the current password, then press the [Enter] key twice. The password is now cleared and the “System Password is” field is automatically set to Clear.

When changing or clearing the password a “Setup Notice” will inform you that changes have been saved. Press the [Enter] key to register your changes.

Password On Boot

When enabled, the system will then require the password before the system can bootup. The options for this field are:

• Disabled

• Enabled

The default value for this field is: Disabled

Notebook User’s Guide

Item Specific Help

Suspend Mode: [Save To RAM]

PhoenixBIOS Setup Utility

Exit

ESC



Select Menu

Enter

Select Sub-Menu

F10

Save and Exit

The Power Menu

The Power Menu of the Setup program allows you to enable and adjust the advanced features of the Notebook designed to conserve power. Enabling these features will extend the life of the battery pack between charges. To make changes to power management settings, select Power from the menu bar. The following menu appears:

System Devices

Main

Power Management Mode [Customized]

Smart CPU Mode: [Off] Standby Time-out: [Disabled] Suspend Time-out: [Disabled]

Resume On Modem Ring: [Disabled] Resume On Time of Day: [Disabled] Resume Time: [00:00:00]



Help

Select Item

Security

F5/F6

Power Exit

Change Values

Boot

Select Power Management Mode. Choosing modes changes system power management settings. Maximum Power Savings conserves the greatest amount of system power while Maximum Performance conserves power but allows greatest system performance. To alter these settings, choose Customize. To turn off power management, choose Disable.

Setup Defaults

Figure 2-4: The Power Menu

Power Management Mode

This menu item allows you to set power management features with pre-defined values. The available options for this field are:

• Disabled

• Customized

• Max. Power Savings

• Max. Performance

If this menu item is set to Disabled, power management features will not function regardless of other field settings on this menu.

The Customized option allows you to make your own selections from the following fields within the Power Menu.

When this field is specified as Max. Performance, optimal system performance is achieved with some power conservation. The remaining fields within

Chapter 2: The BIOS Setup Program

the Power Menu will be set to pre-defined values that ensure maximum performance.

When set to Max. Power Savings, system power will be conserved to its greatest amount. The remaining fields within the Power Menu will be set to pre-defined values that ensure maximum power savings.

The default value for this field is: Customized

Smart CPU Mode

This field allows you to enable the CPU Idle Mode. CPU Idle Mode slows down the CPU during brief periods when the system is not busy. Power Management must be enabled for this field to be active.

The available settings for this field are:

• On

• Off

The default value for this field is: Off

Standby Time-out

This menu item allows you to specify how much time of inactivity must elapse before the system automatically transits to Standby mode. In Standby mode, all devices are powered off and the system enters a low power CPU state. Available options for this field are:

• Disabled

• 1 Minutes

• 2 Minutes

• 4 Minutes

• 6 Minutes

• 8 Minutes

• 12 Minutes

• 16 Minutes

This field can only be set when the “Power Management Mode” field is set to Customized. The default value for this field is: Disabled

Notebook User’s Guide

Suspend Time-out

This field determines the amount of time the system needs to be in Standby mode before entering the Suspend to RAM mode. In this mode, all system states are saved to RAM before entering Suspend mode. When set to Disabled, the system cannot suspend operations. The possible settings for this field are as follows:

• Disabled

• 5 Minutes

• 10 Minutes

• 15 Minutes

• 20 Minutes

• 30 Minutes

• 40 Minutes

• 60 Minutes

This field can only be set when the “Power Management Mode” field is set to Customized. The default value for this field is: Disabled

Suspend Mode

This field determines if the system suspends to RAM or suspends to Disk.

The available options for this field are:

• Save To RAM

• Save To Disk

This field can only be set when the “Power Management Mode” field is set to Customized. The default value for this field is: Save To RAM

Resume On MODEM Ring

When this field is set Enabled, a MODEM ring will cause the system to resume from Suspend to RAM mode.

• Disabled

• Enabled

The default value for this field is: Disabled

Chapter 2: The BIOS Setup Program

Resume On Time of Day

This option allows you to enable the system to resume at a specific time. The possible options are:

• Disabled

• Enabled

If you set this field to Enabled, you must set the Resume Time field as well. The default value for this field is: Disabled

Resume Time

This option allows you to specify the time the system will resume. Enter the time in hours, minutes and seconds in a 24-hour format. For example, indicate that the system should resume normal operation at 1:00 p.m. by setting this field with a value of 13:00:00 hours.

Notebook User’s Guide

Item Specific Help

PhoenixBIOS Setup Utility

Exit

ESC



Select Menu

Enter

Select Sub-Menu

F10

Save and Exit

The Boot Menu

The Boot Menu allows the user to specify the order in which the Notebook is to check for a device to boot the system. To make changes, select Boot from the menu bar. The following screen appears:

System Devices

Main

1.[Legacy Devices]

2.[Hard Drive]

3.[CD-ROM Drive]

4.[Network Boot]

F1 Help



Select Item

Security

F5/F6

Power Exit

Change Values

Boot

Setup Defaults

Figure 2-5: The Boot Menu

Boot Sequence

The Boot Menu allows you to use the up and down arrow keys to select among the four possible boot devices listed. By using the [F6] and [F5] keys, it is possible to alter the priority the system uses to search for the boot device on system power up according to numerical order.

The Exit Menu

Item Specific Help

PhoenixBIOS Setup Utility

Exit

ESC



Select Menu

Enter

Select Sub-Menu

F10

Save and Exit

Once you have made all of your selections from the various menus in the Setup program, you should save your changes and exit Setup. Select Exit from the menu bar to display the following menu:

Chapter 2: The BIOS Setup Program

Main

Save Changes and Exit Discard Changes and Exit Get Load Previous Values Save Changes

System Devices

Default Values

Help



Select Item

Security

F5/F6

Power Exit

Change Values

Boot

Exit System Setup and save your changes to CMOS.

Setup Defaults

Figure 2-6: The Exit Menu

Pressing the [Esc] key does not exit this menu. You

must select one of the options from this menu or a menu bar item to exit this menu.

Each of the options on this menu is described below.

Save Changes and Exit

Once you are finished making your selections, choose this option from the Exit Menu to ensure the values you selected are saved to Non-Volatile RAM. Changes you made to the Setup program must be changed to Non-Volatile RAM in order to make them operative. Non-Volatile RAM differs from standard RAM memory in that it is sustained by an on-board battery and stays on even when the Notebook is turned off.

Notebook User’s Guide

Once your selections have been saved, the Setup program displays the following message:

The next time you bootup the Notebook, the BIOS will attempt to load the values you saved in Non-Volatile memory. If these values cause the system boot to fail, reboot and press [F2] to enter the Setup program. Once in Setup, you can try to change the values that caused the system boot to fail. If the problem persists, load the default values (see Get Default Values below).

If you attempt to exit the Setup program without saving

Setup Confirmation

Save configuration changes and exit now?

[Yes] [No]

your changes, the program will prompt you with a message asking if you want to save your changes before exiting.

Discard Changes and Exit

This option should only be used if you do not want to save the changes you have made to the Setup program. The default is set to No. If you have made changes to the fields other than system date, system time and password, the system will ask for confirmation when choosing Discard Changes and Exit.

Get Default Values

This option allows you to load the default values for each of the parameters on the Setup Menus. When this option is selected, the following message is displayed:

Setup Confirmation

Load default configuration now?

[Yes] [No]

Chapter 2: The BIOS Setup Program

You can now select Save Changes and Exit or make other changes before saving the values to Non-Volatile RAM.

Load Previous Values

This option allows you to discard the selections you have made and restore the values you previously saved. After selecting this option, all selections are updated, and the following message is displayed:

Setup Confirmation

Load previous configuration now?

[Yes] [No]

Save Changes

This option saves your selections without exiting the Setup program. You can then return to other menus and make changes. After selecting this option, all selections are saved, and the following message is displayed:

Setup Confirmation

Save configuration changes now?

[Yes] [No]

This concludes this chapter on the BIOS Setup program. The next chapter covers operation of the Notebook computer.

Notebook User’s Guide

OPERATION

Introduction

This chapter provides information pertaining to the Video Display Controls of the Notebook used to adjust the appearance of the LCD screen. Also included in this chapter is a brief overview of the keyboard, a description of the status indicators, as well as descriptions of the touch pad, FIR module, and the Notebook’s audio features.

HAPTER

Video Display Controls

The computer uses special key combinations to control the LCD display’s Brightness. The key combinations are called hot keys.

Brightness adjustment:

1. Press [Fn] + [F2] to increase brightness.

2. Press [Fn] + [F1] to decrease brightness.

Notebook User’s Guide

Some Important Keys on the Keyboard

Your Notebook computer features a low-profile keyboard that emulates all the functions of a full-size 101/102 key keyboard including an embedded keypad and a full array of special function keys. This section covers the Notebook’s keyboard, and identifies several keys that are commonly used when working with either the Disk Operating System or other software.

The alphanumeric keys located on the keyboard are in the same position as those found on a standard typewriter. The usage of these keys is straightforward. There are some keys such as Scroll Lock, Print Screen, etc., whose functions may be unfamiliar to you. This chapter identifies some of these keys and discusses their functions when used with either the Operating System Software or other application software, such as word processors, spread sheet applications, or database management programs.

In addition, the twelve function keys and how they relate to application software are covered. Try locating these keys on the Notebook. Figure 3-1 shows the keyboard layout.

Figure 3-1: The Keyboard Layout

1. [Esc]: The Escape key allows you to cancel any specific command you

may have just keyed in. For example, if you mistakenly hit the function key, [F1], in your word processor or spread sheet program, but want to “cancel” the command so that the computer will ignore the function key, just press [Esc].

2. [Enter]: While using application software, the purpose of this key is

similar to a typewriter’s return key, pressing this key will position the blinking cursor to the beginning of the next line on the display screen.

Chapter 3: Operation

3. [Fn]: This key is located in the lower left corner of the keyboard, next to

the [Ctrl] key. Pressing this key engages the alternate function (labeled in blue) on selected keys. For example, simultaneously pressing the [Fn] + [F1] keys decreases the display brightness.

4. [PrtSc/SysRq]: Pressing this key will cause whatever is on the screen at

the time to be printed. Note that in some software programs this key may be used in conjunction with other keys for other specific functions. Consult your software user’s manual for more information.

5. [Scr Lk/Nm Lk]: When Scroll Lock is engaged, pressing the cursor

control keys moves the cursor by fields of text. Strike the [Fn] + [Scr Lk/Nm Lk] keys to engage this mode. Striking these keys again will disengage the Scroll Lock function.

6. [Pause/Break]: The Break key is used in conjunction with the Control key

([Ctrl] + [Pause/Break]) to cancel a command.

7. [Caps Lock]: The [Caps Lock] key corresponds to a typewriter’s Shift

Lock key, but it only affects letter keys. The number keys and function keys are not affected. Even with the [Caps Lock] key engaged, if you want to generate the symbols and punctuation marks above the number keys, you must still use the [Shift] key. Note that when the [Caps Lock] key is engaged, the Caps Lock indicator comes on.

8. [Shift]: Similar to the typewriter’s Shift key, this key allows you to type

letters in “UPPER CASE.”

9. [Ctrl]: Used by itself, the Control key has no effect in carrying out any

commands. Like the [Alt] key, it is always used in combination with other keys. Its function depends mainly upon the type of software you are currently using. Refer to the user’s manual of the software you are using for details on how to use this key.

10. [Alt]: Used by itself, the Alternate Key has no effect in carrying out any

commands, but functions with the [Ctrl] + [Del] key to reboot or restart your operating system program. Refer to the user’s guide of the software you are using for more details on how to use this key.

11. [Windows 95 Keys] There are two special Windows 95 keys on the

keyboard. The key with the Windows Logo (located between the Fn key and the Alt key) activates the Start menu button on the bottom left of the screen. The other key, which looks like a menu with a small arrow, is located in the top row of keys. It activates the Properties menu and is equivalent to pressing the right mouse button while pointing at any object on the Windows desktop.

Notebook User’s Guide

Cursor Control Keys and Editing Keys

The keys listed in this section are specifically used to move the cursor on the LCD Display. When used in combination with other keys, these cursor control keys provide some very powerful editing functions.

The cursor’s location indicates where you can type text on the screen. Having the ability to quickly move the cursor around the screen while editing text will significantly improve your efficiency.

The importance of these Cursor Control keys is more apparent when using application software such as word processors, spread sheet applications, and databases. In addition, while using your operating system software (OS), several of these keys play an important role in moving the cursor or editing. Refer to your software manuals for details on how to use these keys.

Figure 3-2 highlights both the Keyboard’s Cursor Control and Text Editing keys. A brief discussion of each key follows.

Figure 3-2: Cursor Control and Text Editing Keys

1. [

] and [

3333

character at a time in the direction shown on the arrow key.

2. [

] and [

5555

line at a time in the direction shown on the arrow key.

3. [Page Up] or [Page Down]: These keys allow you to quickly move the

cursor on the screen page by page, or window by window, depending on the software you are using.

4. [Home]: Refer to your application software manual to find out how your

software specifically uses the [Home] key to quickly move the cursor to either the beginning of a document or the beginning of a line.

] Keys: Pressing either of these keys will move the cursor one

4444

] Keys: Pressing either of these keys will move the cursor one

6666

5. [End]: Refer to your application software manual to find out how to use

the End key to quickly move the cursor to the end of a line or to the end of a document.

6. [Insert]: The Insert key is used mainly for editing. It enables you to insert

characters within the text while using DOS. Some applications, however, automatically insert text while within a document, so depending upon the software you are using you may or may not need to use this key.

7. [Delete]: This key is used for editing text at either the DOS command

prompt or the text within a document. Pressing the Delete key will remove any characters to the right of the cursor and then pull from the right the remaining typed characters.

8. [Back Space]: While within a document, the Back Space Key allows you

to move the cursor to the left and simultaneously erase characters in its path. Note that this is different from the left arrow key, which will not erase any typed characters.

The Function Keys

Notice the twelve function keys at the top of the keyboard. These keys appear in sequence ([F1], [F2], [F3], . . . [F11], [F12]) from left to right. The functions these keys perform vary with respect to the operating system and software in use. Refer to the appropriate software user’s guides for more detailed information on function key definitions.

Chapter 3: Operation

Notebook User’s Guide

Embedded Numeric Keypad

An embedded numeric keypad consists of 15 keys that make number intensive input more convenient. These keys have both numeric and cursor movement functions, which are labeled in blue on the keycaps. When the numeric keypad is engaged, the Num Lock indicator comes on. The keypad is activated in one of two ways:

1. While holding down the [Fn] key, press the [F8] key to toggle the numeric

keypad on and off.

2. A second way is to temporarily activate the numeric keypad by holding

down the [Fn] key when the Num Lock state is on. The numeric keys will be active as long as you hold down the [Fn] key.

Figure 3-3: The Embedded Numeric Keypad

After rebooting, the pad lock is set to OFF and the Num

Lock is set to ON. In this state, the Notebook’s embedded numeric keypad is disabled.

Hot Keys for System Control

The following table lists the hot key functions for the Notebook computer.

Key Combinations Definitions

simultaneous displays [Fn] + [End] Toggles the mute function on and off. (no beep) [Fn] + [number] Pressing [Fn] plus any number on the keypad enables

the embedded numeric keypad. [Fn] + [Esc] Pressing this hot key combination will cause the system

to enter Save to Disk mode (Hibernate mode). The

function of this hot key is configured by the Windows

98 operating system.

Chapter 3: Operation

When ACPI mode is enabled, all power management

hot keys, i.e., Fn + S/R/F12, are inactive. When using an external keyboard, the Fn key can be

simulated by pressing the left-Ctrl + left-Alt keys.

Notebook User’s Guide

The System Status Indicator Panel

Located above the keyboard, the System Status LED Indicators inform you of the Notebook’s current operating status at a glance. Please see Figure 1-4 to locate this panel. Upon activating a certain function, the LED corresponding to that function will light until you deactivate that feature. The symbol will remain lit, indicating that the feature is engaged.

Figure 3-4 shows the System Status Indicator Panel with all of the indicator icons. A description of each of the icons is listed below.

Figure 3-4: The System Status Indicators

The icons are explained in detail in the order in which they appear.

AC Power

This indicator lights when the Notebook is being powered by an external AC source. If the LED is OFF, the system is off and the battery is not being charged. If the icon is ON, the system is on and the battery is being charged. When the AC Power indicator is blinking, the system is in Sleep or Suspend to RAM mode.

HDD/FDD/CD-ROM/PCMCIA Activity

When this indicator lights, it indicates that the CD-ROM/FDD/PCMCIA or the hard disk is being accessed.

Chapter 3: Operation

Battery Status Indicator

This indicator is a single dual-color LED: green and amber. Green indicates the battery is charging from the AC source. Amber indicates the battery discharging state.

Num Lock

Upon pressing the [Scr Lk/Nm Lk] key, this indicator lights indicating the embedded keypad’s numeric feature is activated. Press the [Scr Lk/Nm Lk] key again to deactivate this feature and turn off the indicator.

Caps Lock

Upon pressing the [Caps Lock] key, indicator lights indicating that the Caps Lock feature is engaged. Press the [Caps Lock] key again to deactivate this feature and turn off the indicator.

Scroll Lock

Upon pressing the [Fn] + [Scr Lk/Nm Lk] key, this indicator lights indicating the scroll lock is engaged. Press the [Fn] + [Scr Lk/Nm Lk] key again to deactivate this feature and turn off the indicator.

Notebook User’s Guide

Definition Tables for the LED Status Indicators

The Notebook has six LED indicators. The following tables summarize each of these indicators.

Power Indicator

The following table describes this status indicator.

Color State Meaning

Green On The Notebook’s power is on and the battery is being

charged.

Orange Blinking The system is in Sleep or Suspend to RAM mode.

HDD/FDD/CD-ROM/PCMCIA Access Indicator

The following table describes this status indicator.

Color State Meaning

Green On The HDD/FDD/CD-ROM/PCMCIA is being

accessed.

Green Off The HDD/FDD/CD-ROM/PCMCIA is not being

accessed.

Chapter 3: Operation

Battery Status Indicator

The following table describes this status indicator.

Color State Meaning

Green Blinking Battery is charging from the AC source. Green On The battery is fully charged. Green Off Battery discharging or an abnormal stop charge due

to bad cell or over temperature state.

Amber Blinking When the indicator is blinking (at a rate of once

every second), it indicates that the battery is in the critical low state with approximately 3 minutes of battery power remaining. System beeps when the critical low state is first reached.

Amber On Indicates the battery is in the low state with

approximately 12 minutes of battery power remaining.

Amber Off Battery is charging from the AC source.

Num Lock Indicator

The following table describes this status indicator.

Color State Meaning

Green On Num Lock is activated. Green Off Num Lock is off.

Caps Lock Indicator

The following table describes this status indicator.

Color State Meaning

Green On Caps Lock is activated. Green Off Caps Lock is off.

Notebook User’s Guide

Scroll Lock Indicator

The following table describes this status indicator.

Color State Meaning

Green On Scroll Lock is activated. Green Off Scroll Lock is off.

Battery Charging Control

When the AC Adapter is plugged in, the system automatically begins charging the battery. If an over 60°C temperature condition occurs while charging the battery, the process will be stopped. If the battery temperature falls below 45°C, the system will resume the battery charging process.

Using the Touch Pad

The touch pad is a touch-sensitive pointing device that provides all the features of a mouse. Please refer to Figure 3-5 and the following explanation for the touch pad’s operating instructions.

Figure 3-5: The Touch Pad

Chapter 3: Operation

Please refer to the following for instructions on how to operate the touch pad.

1. Place your fingers on the keyboard in the normal typing position.

2. The touch pad is easily accessible by moving either your left or right thumb

off the space bar and on to the touch pad.

3. Gently move your thumb across the touch pad in the direction you want the

cursor to move. The pad detects the change in pressure and moves the cursor in the corresponding direction.

4. With a conventional mouse, selections are usually made by double-clicking

the mouse’s left button. The touch pad also supports this feature. It is described in detail below. If you are familiar with the operations of a mouse you may only need to scan the information below as a review.

The touch pad buttons have essentially the same function as mouse buttons. Clicking these buttons makes selections, drags objects, or performs a variety of other functions depending on the software. To select an object, first move the pointer over the object you want to select, and then press the lower button one time and release it. The functionality of these buttons depends on your software. Refer to your software user’s manuals for specific information on the touch pad (mouse) functions.

Double-clicking is a common technique for selecting objects or launching programs from icons. Move the pointer over the object you wish to select, then rapidly press the left button two times. This action is commonly referred to as “double-clicking on an object.”

Double-tapping is another technique for selecting objects or executing applications from icons. For the most part double-tapping is very similar to the double-clicking technique of a mouse. The difference is that instead of double-clicking on a mouse button, you double-tap on the pressure sensitive touch pad to make the selection. Once the cursor has been moved to the object you want to select, lightly double-tap the pressure sensitive touch pad itself. This double-tapping will select the desired item and prompt the software to perform the related operation.

Many of the functions within Windows 95 can also be launched by using Single-tapping. Once the cursor has been moved to the object you want to select, lightly single-tap on the pressure sensitive touch pad. This singletapping will select the desired item and prompt the software to perform the related operation.

When working with programs that employ a graphical user interface (GUI), such as Windows, dragging objects from one point on the screen to another is a technique you will have to master. To drag an object, first move the pointer over the object, then press and hold down the left button. Now without

Notebook User’s Guide

releasing the button, move the object to a new location on the screen by moving your finger across the touch pad. Once the object is in the desired position, release the button to drop the object in place.

The FIR Module

The Notebook is equipped with one FIR module located on the rear panel of the Notebook. Please see Figure 3-6 if you are having trouble finding this module. The FIR (Serial Infrared) module consists of one Light Emitting Diode (LED) and one photo sensor. The operation of the FIR module is similar to the operation of a television remote control device. The LED functions as a transmitter and the photo sensor acts as a receiver. The transmitter emits a signal stream consisting of data as pulses of infrared light. The receiver picks up pulses of infrared light transmitted by other FIR modules.

Figure 3-6: The FIR (Fast Infrared Module)

The FIR module allows wireless, serial communication between the Notebook and other FIR equipped devices such as a printer or another computer. Use an IR-specified application to transmit or receive data via the Notebook’s FIR module.

Chapter 3: Operation

Follow the guidelines listed below when using the FIR module to transmit or receive data.

• Make sure the “Infrared Port” field under the System Devices menu in the

BIOS Setup program is enabled and set to an available address. The “MODE” field should be set to FIR and the “FIR DMA Channel” should be configured for DMA 3. Refer to Chapter 2 for information on the BIOS Setup program.

As the factory default, the Infrared Port is disabled in

system BIOS. In order to use the FIR module the “Infrared Port” field under the System Devices menu in the BIOS Setup program must be enabled and set to an available address. The “MODE” field should be set to FIR and the “FIR DMA Channel” should be configured for DMA 3.

• Ensure that the Notebook’s FIR module is properly lined up with the other

device’s FIR module. The FIR baud rate can reach 115,200 at a distance of 1 meter and a bias angle of 15°. The transmission distance can be further lengthened by reducing the baud rate or by perfectly aligning the two devices.

• There should be a clear, unobstructed path between the two FIR modules;

otherwise, the optical signal will be blocked. Likewise, do not place anything between the two FIR modules during data transmission.

• Do not move either the Notebook or the other device during transmission of

data. Moving either the Notebook or the other device during transmission distorts the optical signal resulting in loss of data or a system crash.

• An error can occur in FIR transmission if subjected to an environment with

high levels of noise. To avoid transmission errors, do not transmit FIR signals near equipment with compressors, such as refrigerators or air conditioners.

Notebook User’s Guide

Multimedia Sound System

The Notebook Computer’s built-in audio capabilities allow you to take advantage of a wide range of education and entertainment multimedia software available on today’s growing market without the additional costs of add-on cards and peripheral hardware. The multimedia sound system features a sophisticated on-board FM sound generator that produces realistic music and human voice sounds in 16-bit stereo. The integrated speakers are located on the front sides of the Notebook. The internal microphone is located in the middle of the System Status Indicator Panel as shown in Figure 1-4. The Notebook is also equipped with both input and output audio ports for external audio units. They are located on the left-hand side of the Notebook next to the AC Adapter port. Please see the illustrations in Chapter 1 if you are having trouble locating any of these components. An external microphone can be connected to the microphone jack. External speakers or headphones can be connected to the Notebook’s Headphone-out jack.

All audio features are software controlled. The Master volume is both hardware and software controlled. The audio utility diskette bundled with the Notebook contains several AudioDrive application programs that run under the Windows environment. These applications are compatible with Sound Blaster Pro, and the Microsoft Windows Sound System. With these programs, you can record, store, compress, edit, and playback a variety of sounds and music.

Chapter 3: Operation

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

Notebook User’s Guide

The CD-ROM Module

The CD-ROM provides you with the hardware basics to turn your Notebook computer into a fully functioning multimedia computer. Beyond its audio capabilities, since many software packages are coming out solely on CD-ROM, the addition of this module gives the user more choices in the purchase of software applications.

In recent years, CD-ROMs have become increasingly popular as a mass storage media. One reason is clearly their large storage capacity; CD-ROM disks can hold up to 640 MB of data. And because they are randomly accessible, data can be easily organized for quick retrieval during a search. CD-ROMs can also store a large variety of information, including audio and video data, as well as text files and programs.

Precautions to Follow when Handling CD-ROM Discs

• Always hold the disc by the edges. Avoid touching the surface of the disc.

• Use a clean, dry, cloth to remove dust, smudges, or fingerprints. Wipe from

the center outward.

• Do not write on the surface of the disc

• Extremes in temperature may damage discs. Store discs in a cool dry place.

• Do not use benzene, thinners, or cleaners

• Do not bend or drop the discs

• Do not place objects on top of discs

Loading a Disc

To play a CD disc, follow the instructions listed below.

1. Press the eject button. The tray ejects from the drive.

2. Place the disc into the tray with the disc’s label facing up.

3. Push the tray back into the drive.

Do not insert any foreign objects into the disc tray. Do

not force the tray to open or close manually. When not in use, keep the tray closed to prevent dust or dirt from entering the drive unit. Some CD-ROM drives are equipped with an Audio CD play button. Press this button to play music CDs.

Before using your CD-ROM for the first time, you must install the CD-ROM device driver found on the diskette that came in your CD-ROM optional module package.

Installing Device Drivers

Windows 98 automatically installs and configures plug and play hardware devices including your CD-ROM drive. You do not have to install the driver. If you need to reinstall the driver for some reason, please refer to Chapter 7 of this manual for the driver installation procedure. The device drivers are located on the Utility CD that came bundled with your Notebook.

Audio Volume Control

The Notebook supports the following hot key combinations to control the audio output volume:

Chapter 3: Operation

[Fn] + [PgUp] [Fn] + [

[Fn] + [End]

PgDn

]

Increases audio output volume Decreases audio output volume

Mutes stereo speaker output

Hardware Master Volume Control

In addition to the above hot key combinations, the Notebook is also equipped with a 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.

This concludes Chapter 3. The next chapter covers attaching peripherals such as a printer or an external monitor.

Notebook User’s Guide

PERIPHERALS

Your Notebook computer is equipped with several ports for connecting a number of peripheral devices such as a printer, a MODEM, or an external monitor. There are also two PCMCIA Card Bus sockets for connecting industry standard PCMCIA Card Bus cards and stereo jacks for connecting external audio equipment. For added expansion and versatility, you can connect your Notebook to a proprietary I/O Replicator (optional) via the 240pin connector located on the rear of the Notebook.

This chapter covers the following topics:

• An overview of the peripherals that can be connected to the Notebook

• The necessary requirements for using these peripherals with your Notebook

• Instructions on how to connect these devices to your Notebook

HAPTER

The peripheral devices covered in this chapter are listed below:

• Serial device

• Parallel device

• External monitor

• External keyboard or PS/2 mouse

• PCMCIA interface

• Microphone, stereo equipment, headphones and external speakers

• USB devices

• Phone line to RJ-11 MODEM port

Television to TV-out port Additional Equipment

• Before attempting to connect a peripheral device to the computer, make sure

you are familiar with the Notebook’s various I/O ports. Refer to the

Notebook User’s Guide

of the enhanced parallel port's greater throughput.

illustrations in Chapter 1 to identify the following I/O ports. The first seven ports in the following list are located on the rear panel of the Notebook.

• One serial port

• One parallel port

• TV-out port

• An external monitor connector

• 240-pin docking connector

• A USB connector

• An external keyboard or PS/2 mouse connector

• Two PCMCIA ports

• An audio Line-in connector

• An external microphone connector

• An audio Headphone-out connector

• RJ-11 MODEM port (optional)

External Monitor

The Notebook has a port for connecting an external VGA monitor. The port is a standard 15-pin analog connector commonly used with these monitors. The display output of the computer supports standard VGA color and resolution on a color monitor.

Parallel Device

This parallel port uses a 25-pin connector, allowing you to attach any equipment that is compatible with this connector standard. This port is most commonly used for connecting a printer. Most printers have a parallel interface. These include dot matrix, ink-jet, and laser printers. The parallel port supports both EPP and ECP capabilities.

Your application must be EPP aware to take advantage

Likewise, your application must be ECP aware to make use of the parallel port’s ECP capabilities.

Serial Device

This is a standard 9-pin serial port. Any device that uses this standard can be connected to the Notebook. For example, most pointing devices such as a serial mouse or graphics tablet, can be directly connected to the computer. External MODEMs or fax/MODEMs will usually employ a standard cable. If you have any doubts about the cables required for equipment you plan to

Chapter 4: Peripherals

terminal mono plugs.

purchase, you should consult technical support to ensure you have the correct cables.

240-pin Docking Port

This port is for the connection of a replicator. A replicator extends the capabilities of the Notebook. The replicator is discussed in Chapter 6 of this manual under the section Optional Equipment.

External Keyboard or PS/2 Mouse

This 6-pinned port allows you to attach a full size enhanced keyboard to the Notebook. You can use any standard desktop computer 101/102-key enhanced keyboard. If you attach an external keyboard and reboot, the computer will automatically detect it. This port also allows you to attach a PS/2 compatible mouse. The PS/2 mouse and the external keyboard share the same auxiliary port. When using the external keyboard, you will need to make the connection before powering on the Notebook. This will prevent recognition failure.

The external keyboard needs to be equipped with a PS/2 connector. You should be able to obtain a keyboard adapter from your dealer if your external keyboard is not equipped with a PS/2 connector.

Line-in , External Mic , and Audio Headphone-out

There is a built in microphone located just below the LCD screen. You can use it to record voice, sound, and music. There are also three audio jacks, an Line-in, External Mic, and Headphone-out, located under the PCMCIA sockets on the left side of the Notebook. The external microphone jack is used for connecting an external microphone. You can connect external stereo speakers or headphones to the stereo Headphone-out jack. The Line-in jack allows you to connect an output line from stereo equipment such as a tape player to the Notebook.

The Audio jacks are three-terminal stereo jacks. They

are not compatible with twoConnecting a mono plug into the Speaker Out jack, may damage the Notebook.

The interrupt used is IRQ 11.

Notebook User’s Guide

USB Devices

The Notebook is equipped with a Universal Serial Bus (USB) connector. USB devices are PnP compliant as defined by the Universal Serial Bus Specification

1.0. Any device that complies with this standard can be connected to this port.

TV Display

The Notebook’s video signal can be converted to a standard video signal and displayed on a TV for viewing or recording to video tape.

RJ-11 MODEM port

To use the Notebooks RJ-11 connector.

MODEM

you must first connect a phone line to the

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.

Connecting Peripheral Devices

Connecting an External Monitor

Please refer to Figure 4-1 and the following instructions for an external monitor connection:

1. Make sure the Notebook and the monitor are powered off.

2. Ensure that the monitor is the correct type. Do not use a monitor that does

not match the VGA standard.

3. Connect the monitor cable to the monitor before connecting the cable to the

Notebook’s VGA port.

4. Connect the monitor to a power source.

5. Turn on the computer. Turn on the monitor.

Chapter 4: Peripherals

Figure 4-1: Connecting an External Monitor to the Notebook’s VGA Port

To activate the external monitor you will need to press the hot key combination. Press [Fn] + [F5] on the Notebook’s keyboard to toggle between the Notebook’s LCD display, simul-scan (simultaneously viewing the Notebook’s LCD and external monitor screen) and an external monitor. The Notebook’s display panel will be turned off and the external monitor will become the active display.

Notebook User’s Guide

Connecting Parallel Devices

To connect a parallel device to the computer you will need the standard parallel 25-pinned connector cable mentioned earlier. Before you connect any device, check the documentation that came with the equipment to see if you need to make any settings or adjustments to the equipment before using it. This might include setting switches to configure the equipment so that it will operate properly with the Notebook and the software you plan to use. Once the equipment is ready, all you will probably need to do is attach the connecting cable. Please refer to Figure 4-2.

Figure 4-2: Connecting a Printer to the Notebook’s Parallel Port

When using a printer device, it is recommended that

you turn on the Notebook first before turning on the printer.

Connecting Serial Devices

The Notebook has one Serial Port. Please refer to Figure 4-3. Its address can be set via the BIOS Setup program. Refer to Chapter 2 for information on BIOS Setup.

Chapter 4: Peripherals

Figure 4-3: Connecting a Mouse to the Notebook’s Serial Port

Connecting an External Keyboard

The Notebook has a connection for a full-size enhanced 101/102-key keyboard commonly used with desktop computers. A PS/2 mouse can also be connected to the same port. The external keyboard needs to be equipped with a PS/2 connector. You should be able to obtain a keyboard adapter from your dealer if your external keyboard is not equipped with a PS/2 connector.

Notebook User’s Guide

To connect a keyboard, perform the following steps:

1. Make sure the computer is turned off.

2. If the keyboard has a PS/2 type connector, plug it into the Notebook’s

keyboard connector port. If the keyboard has a PC-type jack, connect it to the adapter cable and then plug the other end of the adapter cable into the computer.

Figure 4-4: Connecting an External Keyboard to the Notebook’s PS/2 Port

PCMCIA Card Bus Cards and Expansion Sockets

Your Notebook computer features two PCMCIA expansion sockets designed to interface with two Type II cards or one Type III card. This sophisticated innovation allows you to expand and customize your Notebook computer to meet a wide range of computing needs without sacrificing portability. PC cards accommodate a number of expansion options. Memory cards, MODEMs, hard disks, and network (LAN) adapters are just a small sample of the PC card products available on today’s market.

Inserting and Ejecting PCMCIA Cards

The PCMCIA (Personal Computer Memory Card International Association) Card Bus is a widely accepted industry standard that defines the design and operation of PC Card Bus cards. PC cards that conform to the PCMCIA standard are plug-and-play devices, i.e., they can be inserted into the PCMCIA expansion sockets while the computer is powered on. This type of hot insertion does not apply to all PC cards. Refer to the documentation that came with your PC card for detailed information on insertion and operation of PC cards.

Please refer to Figure 4-5 and the following instructions for inserting and ejecting a PCMCIA card:

Chapter 4: Peripherals

1. Some PCMCIA cards do not support hot-plugging. Refer to your PCMCIA

card’s manual for verification. If hot-plugging is not supported, save your data and turn off the Notebook before inserting the PCMCIA card.

2. Hold the PCMCIA card with the arrow side up and the connector side

toward the socket.

3. Align the card connectors with the appropriate socket and carefully slide

the card into the socket until it locks into place.

4. Locate the two PCMCIA eject buttons. Note that there are two eject

buttons, one per slot.

5. To remove a PC card simply push the respective eject button once; the

eject button pops out. Push the button again to eject the PC card. The upper switch will eject a Type I or Type II PCMCIA card from the upper socket. The lower switch will eject a Type I, Type II, or Type III card from the lower socket.

6. Remove the card and store it properly.

Figure 4-5: Inserting and Ejecting a PCMCIA Card

Notebook User’s Guide

When inserting a Type III PC card, make sure the

Zoomed Video Port

As part of the Notebook’s advanced architecture, the Zoomed Video port (ZV port) feature provides you with hardware MPEG support. This feature allows you to insert a ZV Port-compliant MPEG PC Card into one of the Notebook’s PCMCIA expansion sockets. The ZV port is an extension to the PC Card (PCMCIA) standard that provides a high transfer rate for your computer’s video applications. The ZV port achieves this performance enhancement by routing video data directly to the display controller, bypassing the CPU and system bus. This allows for full-screen, full-motion playback of digital video. But for N38W2 don’t support ZV port.

connector is inserted in the lower socket. Before ejecting a PC card, ensure that it is not being accessed by the system. Memory card users must never change a card’s write protect switch while the card is inserted into a PCMCIA socket. For example, if the DOS message “Write protect error writing Drive x” is displayed, the user has to change the write protect switch setting on the memory card. To change the switch setting, (a) eject the card, (b) change the switch setting, and (c) re-insert the card.

To take advantage of this feature, your MPEG PC Card

must be ZV Port-compliant. For installation instructions and details on how to use a ZV Port-compliant MPEG PC Card, refer to the user’s manual that comes with the PC Card. The ZV port feature is supported in the lower socket only.

Chapter 4: Peripherals

Connecting a USB Device

The Notebook is equipped with a Universal Serial Bus (USB) connector. The USB connector and its supporting circuitry were designed in full compliance with the Universal Serial Bus Specification 1.0. Any device that uses this standard can be connected to this port. These devices are PnP compliant.

Figure 4-6: Connecting a USB Device

Notebook User’s Guide

Connecting a Phone Line to the RJ-11 MODEM Port

To use the Notebook’s MODEM you must first connect a phone line to the RJ11 connector. The Fax/MODEM port is located on the left side of the Notebook (see Figure 1-2). To connect a phone line to the Fax/MODEM Line connector, follow the instructions listed below:

1. Connect the phone line to the Fax/MODEM Line connector. You should

test the line first with a telephone to make sure you hear a dial tone.

2. Now install the Fax/MODEM device driver to activate the Fax/MODEM

Module. The Fax/MODEM device driver is located on the support disk (CD).

Connecting a TV Display to the TV-out Port

The Composite TV-out port is located on the rear side of the Notebook (see Figure 1-3). To connect a television set to the TV-out port, follow the instructions listed below:

1. Turn off the computer.

2. Connect the video in/out cable to the Notebook TV-out port; then connect

the other end to the video input of your television.

3. Now power on both the Notebook and the television.

This concludes Chapter 4. The next chapter covers matters related to the Notebook’s power system.

THE 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 and each of the power modes.

The power system is comprised of two parts, the AC Adapter and the battery system. The AC Adapter converts AC power from a wall outlet to the DC power required by the computer. There are two packs inserted in the battery housing located at the left side of the computer’s front panel. Refer to Figure 1-1.

HAPTER

This section covers AC and battery power operation and also explains the software power saving features that are built into the computer.

Notebook User’s Guide

The AC Adapter

The AC Adapter’s primary function is to provide power to the computer. Refer to Chapter 1 for instructions on how to connect the AC Adapter to the computer. When the Adapter is connected to the computer, it provides power as long as it is plugged into an electrical outlet.

Figure 5-1: The Notebook’s AC Power Adapter

The Adapter has a built-in indicator light that turns on when you plug the Adapter into a power source. If this light does not come on, the Adapter may not be properly connected, or may not be functioning properly. If the Adapter is not functioning properly, please consult your dealer immediately for support.

Power Cord Set The German Power Set is not a basic accessory for

this product; it must be purchased at an additional cost from you dealer. Compatible items are:

1. Power Cord, manufactured by I Sheng, type SP12N/IS033 SPT-2

2. Power Plug, manufactured by I Sheng, type SP021A, 2.5A, 250Vac.

The Battery Power System

The Notebook’s removable battery pack is found in the battery compartment bay. Please see Figure 1-1 if you are having trouble locating this bay.

A new battery pack should be fully discharged and re-

charged one time before being used.

A fully charged pack will provide approximately 3 hours of battery life for an Li-Ion battery before you have to recharge or replace the battery. Additional battery packs are optional pieces of equipment and can be purchased separately.

Chapter 5: The Power System

Figure 5-2: The Notebook’s Battery System

Charging the battery takes about 2.5 hours when the system is off or suspended, or 3.5 hours when the system is turn on. If possible, always charge the battery completely.

Notebook User’s Guide

A safety feature automatically stops the charging process after the battery has reached its full charging capacity. This prevents dangerous conditions from occurring if there is a fault somewhere in the charging circuitry.

There is another built-in protector preventing the battery from over charging by using a temperature parameter. When the temperature of the battery exceeds 60° Celsius the system will automatically cease charging the battery. When the battery temperature falls below 50° Celsius the system will resume charging the battery.

Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type

recommended by the manufacturer. Dispose of used batteries according to the

manufacturer’s instructions.

Removing the Battery Pack

To remove the battery pack from its housing, refer to Figure 5-3 and the following instructions:

1. Turn off the Notebook’s power. Never remove a battery module while the

Notebook is on.

2. Close the Notebook’s cover, ensuring that it snaps into place. Turn the

Notebook so the bottom is facing you.

3. Slide the latch lock in the direction of the arrow, as shown in Figure 5-3.

4. Now, gently pull the module out of its housing. The release latch is spring-

loaded and will snap back into place when you release it.

Chapter 5: The Power System

Figure 5-3: Removing the Battery Pack

Notebook User’s Guide

Inserting the Battery Pack

To insert the battery pack into the Notebook, refer to Figure 5-4 and the following instructions:

1. Slide the battery into the battery bay as shown in Figure 5-4.

2. When the battery has been properly seated, you should hear it click into

place. The release latch is spring-loaded and will snap back into place.

Figure 5-4: Inserting the Battery Pack

Chapter 5: The Power System

Automatic Battery Pack Charging Function

When running the Notebook on AC power, the inserted battery pack will automatically be recharged while you are working on your Notebook. There are two charge speeds. When the computer is turned off or in Suspend mode, the charge time is about 2.5 hours. Otherwise, the charge time is approximately 3.5 hours.

When the AC Adapter is plugged in, the main battery will always be the first to receive a charge. After being charged to full capacity, the secondary battery, assuming it is installed, will then be charged.

If the Notebook is not being charged by AC power, the secondary battery, assuming one is installed, will be the first battery to be discharged. After the secondary battery runs down, the system will begin using the main battery.

If an over 60°C temperature condition occurs while charging the battery, the process will be stopped. If the battery temperature falls below 50°C, the system will resume the battery charging process.

Notebook User’s Guide

AC Power Connection

The Notebook can be powered by AC current by connecting the AC Adapter to the external AC port on the Notebook. When the Notebook is operating on AC power, the battery or batteries installed in the Notebook will be charged simultaneously. Please refer to the previous section for information about automatic battery charging. To make an external AC connection, please refer to the following instructions:

Figure 5-5: Connecting the AC Adapter to the Notebook’s AC port

1. Insert the end of the AC Adapter output cable into the Notebook’s AC port.

Please refer to Figure 5-5.

2. Connect the power cable to the port on the AC Adapter module. Please

refer to Figure 5-5.

3. Plug the Notebook into its power source and press the power 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.

4. 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.

Chapter 5: The Power System

The best power source that you can connect any computer device to is a UPS (uninterruptable power supply). A UPS protects your system against electrical surges as well as protecting your data during a sudden loss of power. Your Notebook dealer will be able to provide you with specifics as far as the price and performance of different UPS brands.

Using Battery Power

The battery system will provide approximately 3 hours of power to the Notebook when Power Management is disabled. This figure will vary depending on how you use the power saving features, your general work habits, and the type of CPU and LCD that your Notebook has. We recommend you use the AC Adapter as often as possible to conserve battery power.

The Battery Status indicator will indicate the status of the battery pack when you are using battery power.

Battery Status Indicator

The following table describes this status Battery Status indicator.

Color State Meaning

Green Blinking Battery is charging from the AC source. Green On The battery is fully charged. Green Off Battery discharging or an abnormal stop charge due

to bad cell or over temperature state.

Amber Blinking When the indicator is blinking (at a rate of once

every second), it indicates that the battery is in the critical low state with approximately 3 minutes of battery power remaining. System beeps when the critical low state is first reached.

Amber On Indicates the battery is in the low state with

approximately 12 minutes of battery power remaining.

Amber Off Battery is charging from the AC source.

Notebook User’s Guide

Low Battery Activity

When the battery has entered the critical battery state, the system will begin to beep, prompting you to save your data. Failure to save at this time may result in data loss.

To extend battery power, we recommend you make full use of the Notebook’s built-in power saving features discussed later in this chapter.

Use the [Fn] + [End] hot key combination to turn off the system beep.

Small Battery for Real Time Clock

There is a small, built-in battery pack that supplies power to the system in order to maintain certain system information while the power is off.

Never remove the battery pack while the power is on

as this may result in data loss when the system loses power.

Chapter 5: The Power System

Power Management Habits

While operating the Notebook on battery power, it is important to develop good power saving habits to maximize battery life. Although the Notebook provides automatic power saving features that can be enabled, you can still improve on them by keeping power conservation in mind.

The AC Adapter

The most obvious way to conserve battery power is to avoid using the battery when there is an available AC power source. The AC Adapter is lightweight and compact, so it is very convenient to bring while traveling. By using the AC Adapter as much as possible, you can ensure you will have a charged battery whenever you really need it.

Notebook User’s Guide

The Suspend/Resume Feature

The Suspend/Resume is one of the Notebook’s most useful non-automatic features. If you need to temporarily step away from the computer, simply press one of the two hot key combinations to put the computer into its maximum power saving mode while maintaining your work.

[Fn] + [Esc] Pressing this hot key will cause the system to enter the

When you return, just press the Power On button to restore the system to the point where you stopped.

Screen Brightness

The brighter the LCD display screen is, the more electricity it requires. Avoid setting the screen brightness level higher than necessary to extend the duration of battery power.

The Serial Ports

The computer has one serial port that draws some power if Enabled, even though no serial device is being used with the computer. If you are not using a serial device, you can turn the COM port off to conserve battery power by using the BIOS program. Please see Chapter 2 for information on enabling and disabling the Notebook’s ports.

Power mode determined by ACPI and the Windows 98 operating system.

The Floppy Disk Drive

The floppy disk drive consumes a substantial amount of battery power. Use the FDD as little as possible when you are operating the computer on battery power.

Gericom N38W2, N30W User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual