Getac B300-G4 Owner's Manual

B300

USER’S MANUAL

Rugged Mobile Computing Solutions

.BZ 201

TRADEMARKS

The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc.

All other brand and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.

NOTE

The information in this manual is subject to change without notice. For the latest version of the manual, please visit the Getac website at www.getac.com.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1 Getting Started..................................................................	1-1
Getting the Computer Running.............................................	1-2
Unpacking ...........................................................................	1-2
Using the Tether (Optional)...............................................	1-3
Connecting to AC Power....................................................	1-4
Turning On and Off the Computer ...................................	1-5
Taking a Look at the Computer.............................................	1-7
Front Components..............................................................	1-7
Rear Components ...............................................................	1-8
Right-Side Components......................................................	1-9
Left-Side Components ......................................................	1-11
Top-open Components.....................................................	1-12
Bottom Components ........................................................	1-15

Chapter 2 Operating Your Computer................................................	2-1
Using the Keyboard ................................................................	2-2
Typewriter Keys ..................................................................	2-2
Cursor-Control Keys............................................................	2-2
Numeric Keypad .................................................................	2-3
Function Keys......................................................................	2-4
Fn Key ..................................................................................	2-4
Hot Keys ..............................................................................	2-4
Windows Keys.....................................................................	2-6
Using the Touchpad................................................................	2-7
Configuring the Touchpad.................................................	2-9
Using the Touchscreen (Optional) .......................................	2-10
Using the Quick Buttons.......................................................	2-12
Using the DVD Drive.............................................................	2-14

i

Inserting and Removing a Disc ........................................	2-15
Using the Network Features ................................................	2-17
Using the Modem .............................................................	2-17
Using the LAN ...................................................................	2-18
Using the Wireless LAN ....................................................	2-18
Using the Bluetooth Feature................................................	2-21
Turning On/Off the Bluetooth Radio ..............................	2-21
Connecting to another Bluetooth Device.......................	2-22
Using the WWAN Feature (Optional)..................................	2-24
Installing a SIM Card.........................................................	2-25
Turning On/Off the WWAN Radio ..................................	2-27
Using the Fingerprint Scanner .............................................	2-28
Chapter 3 Managing Power...............................................................	3-1
AC Adapter..............................................................................	3-2
Battery Pack.............................................................................	3-3
Charging the Battery Pack .................................................	3-3
Initializing the Battery Pack...............................................	3-4
Checking the Battery Level ................................................	3-5
Replacing the Battery Pack ................................................	3-6
Battery Low Signals and Actions .......................................	3-7
Power Management ...............................................................	3-8
Hibernation.........................................................................	3-9
Power-Saving Tips.................................................................	3-10
Chapter 4 Expanding Your Computer ...............................................	4-1
Connecting a VGA or HDMI Display Monitor .......................	4-2
Connecting a Serial Device.....................................................	4-4
Connecting a USB Device .......................................................	4-5
Connecting an eSATA Device.................................................	4-6
Connecting an IEEE 1394 Device............................................	4-7
Connecting Audio Devices .....................................................	4-8
Using Smart Cards ...................................................................	4-9
Using PC Cards.......................................................................	4-10
Using ExpressCards (Optional) .............................................	4-12
Using the MMC/SD Card Reader ..........................................	4-14
System Memory Upgrade .....................................................	4-16

ii

Installing a Secondary Battery Pack or Hard Disk Drive.....	4-18
Chapter 5 Using BIOS Setup and System Recovery..........................	5-1
BIOS Setup ...............................................................................	5-2
When and How to Use .......................................................	5-2
Information Menu ..............................................................	5-3
Main Menu..........................................................................	5-4
Advanced Menu..................................................................	5-5
Security Menu ...................................................................	5-12
Boot Menu ........................................................................	5-14
Exit Menu ..........................................................................	5-15
Quick BIOS Settings...............................................................	5-16
System Recovery....................................................................	5-17
Chapter 6 Using the TPM and P1 Utility............................................	6-1
Using TPM (Trusted Platform Module)..................................	6-2
P1 Quick Button Definition Utility.........................................	6-3
Chapter 7 Caring for the Computer...................................................	7-1
Protecting the Computer .......................................................	7-2
Using an Anti-Virus Strategy .............................................	7-2
Using Windows Action Center...........................................	7-2
Using the Cable Lock ..........................................................	7-3
Taking Care of the Computer ................................................	7-4
Location Guidelines ............................................................	7-4
General Guidelines .............................................................	7-4
Cleaning Guidelines............................................................	7-5
Battery Pack Guidelines......................................................	7-5
Touchscreen Guidelines......................................................	7-7
When Traveling.......................................................................	7-8
Chapter 8 Troubleshooting................................................................	8-1
Preliminary Checklist...............................................................	8-2
Solving Common Problems ....................................................	8-3
Battery Problems ................................................................	8-3
Bluetooth Wireless Transmission Problems ......................	8-3
Display Problems.................................................................	8-4
ExpressCard Problems.........................................................	8-5

iii

Hardware Device Problems................................................	8-5
Hard Disk Drive Problems...................................................	8-6
Keyboard and Touchpad Problems ...................................	8-6
LAN Problems......................................................................	8-7
Modem Problems................................................................	8-7
DVD Drive Problems ...........................................................	8-7
PC Card Problems................................................................	8-8
Power Management Problems ..........................................	8-8
Software Problems .............................................................	8-9
Sound Problems ..................................................................	8-9
Startup Problems ..............................................................	8-10
WLAN Problems ................................................................	8-11
Other Problems.................................................................	8-12
Resetting the Computer .......................................................	8-13
Appendix A Specifications....................................................................	A-1
Appendix B Regulatory Information ...................................................	B-1
On the Use of the System.......................................................	B-2
Class B Regulations .............................................................	B-2
Safety Notices .....................................................................	B-3
On the Use of the RF Device ..................................................	B-6
USA and Canada Safety Requirements and Notices ........	B-6
European Union CE Marking and Compliance Notices....	B-9

iv

Chapter 1

Getting Started

Congratulations on purchasing this rugged computer.

This chapter first tells you step by step how to get the computer up and running. Then, you will find a section briefly introducing the external components of the computer.

Getting Started 1-1

Getting the Computer Running

This section guides you through the procedures for getting the computer ready for operation.

Unpacking

After unpacking the shipping carton, you should find these standard items:

Rugged computer

Accessories:

−AC adapter

−AC power cord

−Document(s)

−Stylus and tether (depending on your model)

Inspect all the items. If any item is damaged or missing, notify your dealer immediately.

Keep the shipping carton and packing materials in case you need to ship or store the computer in the future.

1-2 Getting Started

Using the Tether (Optional)

A tether is provided for attaching the stylus to your computer.

1.Insert one of the tether’s loop ends through the hole of the stylus (as indicated by  below). Then, insert the other end through the first loop (as indicated by  below) and pull it tight.

2.Insert the other loop end to the hook on the computer (as indicated by  below). Then, insert the stylus end through the loop (as indicated by  below) and pull it tight.

Getting Started 1-3

Connecting to AC Power

The computer operates either on the external AC power or internal battery power. It is suggested that you use AC power when you start up the computer for the very first time.

CAUTION: Use only the AC adapter included with your computer. Using other AC adapters may damage the computer.

1.Turn off the computer.

2.Plug the DC cord of the AC adapter to the power connector of the computer ().

3.Plug the female end of the AC power cord to the AC adapter and the male end to an electrical outlet ().

4.When the AC adapter is connected, power is being supplied from the electrical outlet to the AC adapter and onto your computer. Now, you are ready to turn on the computer.

1-4 Getting Started

CAUTION:

When you disconnect the AC adapter, disconnect from the electrical outlet first and then from the computer. A reverse procedure may damage the AC adapter or the computer.

When unplugging the connector, always hold the plug head. Never pull on the cord.

NOTE: When the AC adapter is connected, it also charges the battery pack. For information on using battery power, see Chapter 3.

Turning On and Off the Computer

Turning On

1.Open the top cover by pushing on the cover latch () and lifting up the cover (). You can tilt the cover forward or backward for optimal viewing clarity.

Getting Started 1-5

2. Press the power button ( ).

3.Each time the computer is turned on, it performs a Power-On Self Test (POST), and the operating system such as Windows should start.

Turning Off

When you finish a working session, you can stop the system by turning off the power or leaving it in Sleep or Hibernation mode:

To...	Do this...
Power off	Use the Windows Start menu in the lower left and follow
(Shutdown)	the shutdown procedure.
Sleep	Press the power button* or use the Windows Start menu
	to put the computer in Sleep mode.
Hibernate	Use the Windows Start menu to put the computer in
	Hibernation mode. (See “Hibernation” in Chapter 3 for
	more information.)

* “Sleep” is the default setting of the power button. You may change what the power button does in Windows Control Panel.

1-6 Getting Started

Taking a Look at the Computer

NOTE:

Depending on the model you purchased, the appearance of your computer may not be exactly the same as those shown in this manual.

You need to open the protective covers to access the connectors. When not using a connector, make sure to close the cover completely for waterand dust-proof integrity. (Engage the locking mechanism if the cover is designed with such mechanism.)

Front Components

Ref	Component	Description	See Also
	Top Cover Latch	Locks the top cover.	P. 1-5
	WWAN Antenna	Should be pulled out for reception of	P. 2-24
		mobile telecommunications signals.
	Handle	Provides a convenient way to carry the
		computer.

Getting Started 1-7

Rear Components

Ref	Component	Description	See Also
	Power Connector	Connects the AC adapter.	P. 1-3
	USB Port	Connects a USB device, such as a USB	P. 4-5
		flash disk, printer, digital camera,
		joystick, and more.
	WWAN Pass-	Connects the external antenna for
	through Connector	WWAN (wireless wide area network)
	(option)	connectivity.
	WiFi Pass-through	Connects the external antenna for
	Connector (option)	WLAN (wireless local area network)
		connectivity.
	Docking Connector	Connects to the office or vehicle dock
		(purchased separately).
	VGA Connector	Connects an external display monitor.	P. 4-2
	Serial Connectors	Each of the two connectors connects	P. 4-4
		a serial mouse or serial
		communication device.

1-8 Getting Started

Ref	Component	Description	See Also
	Kensington Lock	Locks the computer to a stationary	P. 7-2
		object for security.

Right-Side Components

Ref	Component	Description	See Also
	Expansion Card	Depending on your model, the slot can
	Slot	be any of the following:
	ExpressCard Slot	Accepts an ExpressCard/34 or	P. 4-12
		ExpressCard/54 for additional
		functions.
	PCMCIA Slot	Accepts a PC card for additional	P. 4-10
		functions.
	Mini IEEE 1394	Connects an IEEE 1394 device such as a	P. 4-6
	Port	scanner, printer, DVCAM, and VCR.

Getting Started 1-9

Ref	Component	Description	See Also
 RF (radio		Serves as the master on/off control for	P. 2-18,
	frequency)	all the wireless modules (wireless LAN,	2-21,
	On/Off Switch	Bluetooth, and WWAN).	2-27
		NOTE: Available modules on your
		computer depend on the configuration
		you purchased.
 MMC/SD Card		Accepts a MultiMediaCard (MMC) or	P. 4-14
	Reader	Secure Digital (SD) card for removable
		storage media.
 HDMI Connector		Connects a HDMI (High-Definition Multi-	P. 4-2
		media Interface) monitor or TV set.
 RJ-11 Connector		Connects the telephone line.	P. 2-17

Hard Disk Drive Inside is the hard disk drive.

Compartment

 PCMCIA Slot	Accepts a PC card for additional	P. 4-10
	functions.
 eSATA/USB	Connects an eSATA device such as an	P. 4-6
Combo Port	external hard drive or optical drive.
	Can also function as a USB port.
 GPS Pass-through	Connects the external antenna for GPS
Connector	signal reception.
(option)
Audio Output	Connects a set of headphones or	P. 4-8
Connector	external speakers with amplifier.
Microphone	Connects an external microphone.	P. 4-8
Connector
RJ-45 Connector	Connects the LAN cable.	P. 2-18

1-10 Getting Started

Left-Side Components

Ref	Component	Description	See Also
	Battery Pack	Supplies power to your computer when	P. 3-3
		external power is not connected.
	Smart Card	Accepts a smart card for additional	P. 4-9
	Reader	security feature.
		NOTE: On your computer, the Smart
		Card reader is a part of the super multi
		drive module. If the super multi drive
		module is replaced by a secondary
		battery pack or hard disk drive, you
		cannot use the Smart Card reader.
	Super Multi	Accepts a compact disc for installing or	P. 2-14
	Drive	loading software, accessing data, and
		playing music/video.
		Can be replaced by a secondary hard disk	P. 4-18
		drive or battery pack (purchased
		separately).

Getting Started 1-11

Top-open Components

Ref	Component	Description	See Also
	LCD Screen	Displays the output of the computer.	P. 2-10
		May include the optional touchscreen
		feature.
	Quick Buttons
	P1	Toggles the “Blackout” mode on or off.	P. 2-11

1-12 Getting Started

Ref Component	Description	See Also
	Toggles ECO power saving mode on or	P. 2-11
	off when using battery power.
	Toggles the sunlight-readable mode on	P. 2-11
	or off.
	Enables or disables light sensor.	P. 2-11
 Power Button	Turns the computer power on or off.	P. 1-6
 Stylus (option)	Serves as the input device by tapping on	P. 2-10
	the screen to make selections and enter
	information.
 Touchpad	Serves as the pointing device of the	P. 2-7
	computer.
 Indicators	Show the current status of the
	computer’s devices.
Hard Disk Drive	Blinks green when computer is accessing
/ DVD Drive	the hard disk or DVD drive.
Card Reader	Blinks green when computer is accessing	P. 4-14
	the storage card.
Caps Lock	Lights green when Caps Lock is on.	P. 2-3
Num Lock / HDD	Lights green when Num Lock is on.	P. 2-18
Heater (option)	Lights amber when the optional hard
	disk heater is on.
 Microphone	Receives sound and voice for the
	computer.
 Keyboard	Serves as the data input device of the	P. 2-2
	computer.
 Fingerprint	Serves as the fingerprint verification,	P. 2-28
Scanner	preventing unauthorized access to your
	computer.
	Getting Started 1-13

Ref Component	Description	See Also
 Stereo Speaker	Sends out sound and voice from the
	computer.
Indicators	Show the current status of the
	computer’s devices.
Power	Lights green when computer is on.	P. 1-5
	Blinks green when computer is on Sleep
	mode.
Battery Charge	Lights green when the battery is fully	P. 3-3
	charged.
	Lights amber when the battery is being
	charged.
	Blinks red when the battery’s capacity is
	below 10 %.
	Blinks amber when the battery is in an
	abnormal condition.
WLAN	Lights green when WLAN radio is on.	P. 2-18
Bluetooth	Lights green when Bluetooth radio is on.	P. 2-21
WWAN	Lights green when WWAN radio is on.	P. 2-27

1-14 Getting Started

Bottom Components

Ref	Component	Description	See Also
	Memory Slots	Inside are the memory slots for	P. 4-16
		expanding the memory size of your
		computer.

Getting Started 1-15

Chapter 2

Operating Your

Computer

This chapter provides information about the use of the computer.

If you are new to computers, reading this chapter will help you learn the operating basics. If you are already a computer user, you may choose to read only the parts containing information unique to your computer.

CAUTION:

Do not expose your skin to the computer when operating it in a very hot or cold environment.

The computer can get uncomfortably warm when you use it in high temperatures. As a safety precaution in such a circumstance, do not place the computer on your lap or touch it with your bare hands for extended periods of time. Prolonged body contact can cause discomfort and potentially a burn.

Operating Your Computer 2-1

Using the Keyboard

Your keyboard has all the standard functions of a full-sized computer keyboard plus an Fn key added for specific functions.

The standard functions of the keyboard can be further divided into four major categories:

Typewriter keys

Cursor-control keys

Numeric keys

Function keys

Typewriter Keys

Typewriter keys are similar to the keys on a typewriter. Several keys are added such as the Ctrl, Alt, Esc, and lock keys for special purposes. When the lock keys (Caps Lock and Num Lk) are pressed, their corresponding indicators light up.

The Control (Ctrl) / Alternate (Alt) key is normally used in combination with other keys for program-specific functions. The Escape (Esc) key is usually used for stopping a process. Examples are exiting a program and canceling a command. The function depends on the program you are using.

Cursor-Control Keys

Cursor-control keys are generally used for moving and editing purposes.

NOTE: The word “cursor” refers to the indicator on the screen that lets you know exactly where on your screen anything you type will appear. It can take the form of a vertical or horizontal line, a block, or one of many other shapes.

2-2 Operating Your Computer

Numeric Keypad

A 15-key numeric keypad is embedded in the typewriter keys as shown next:

Numeric keys facilitate entering of numbers and calculations. When Num Lock is on, the numeric keys are activated; meaning you can use these keys to enter numerals.

NOTE:

When the numeric keypad is activated and you need to type the English letter in the keypad area, you can turn Num Lock off or you can press Fn and then the letter without turning Num Lock off.

Some software may not be able to use the numeric keypad on the computer. If so, use the numeric keypad on an external keyboard instead.

Operating Your Computer 2-3

Function Keys

On the top row of the keys are the function keys: F1 to F12. Function keys are multi-purpose keys that perform functions defined by individual programs.

Fn Key

The Fn key, at the lower left corner of the keyboard, is used with another key to perform the alternative function of a key. The letter “Fn” and the alternative functions are identified by the color of blue on the keytop. To perform a desired function, first press and hold Fn, then press the other key.

Hot Keys

Hot keys refer to a combination of keys that can be pressed any time to activate special functions of the computer. Most hot keys operate in a cyclic way. Each time a hot key combination is pressed, it shifts the corresponding function to the other or next choice.

You can easily identify the hot keys with the icons imprinted on the keytop. The hot keys are described next.

Key	Description
	Switches the keyboard backlight on and off (option).
	Switches the wireless LAN radio on and off.
	Switches the night vision feature on and off for viewing
	the display when using night vision goggles (optional).
	Decreases the sound volume.
	Increases the sound volume.

2-4 Operating Your Computer

Key	Description
	Switches the display output to the next choice if an
	external display (either VGA or HDMI) is connected.
	The hot keys are equivalent to	Windows logo key + P.
	Choices are:

LCD only

LCD + External display (Duplicate)

LCD + External display (Extend)

External display only

Decreases the LCD brightness.

The LCD still has 2 nits brightness when you reach the lowest level.

Increases the LCD brightness.

Switches the touchscreen on and off (option).

Switches the touchpad off and on.

Switches the system sound output off (mute) and on.

Switches the display on and off.

Serves as the sleep button that you can define with

Windows’ Power Options.

Operating Your Computer 2-5

Windows Keys

The keyboard has two keys that perform Windows-specific functions: Windows Logo key and Application key.

The Windows Logo key opens the Start menu and performs software-specific functions when used in combination with other keys. The

Application key usually has the same effect as a right mouse click. (See your Windows manual for more information.)

2-6 Operating Your Computer

Using the Touchpad

CAUTION: Do not use a sharp object such as a pen on the touchpad. Doing so may damage the touchpad surface.

NOTE:

Press Fn+F9 to toggle the touchpad on or off.

For optimal performance of the touchpad, keep your fingers and the pads clean and dry. When tapping on the pad, tap lightly. Do not use excessive force.

The touchpad is a pointing device that allows you to communicate with the computer by controlling the location of the pointer on the screen and making selection with the buttons.

The touchpad consists of a rectangular pad (work surface) and a left and right buttons. To use the touchpad, place your forefinger or thumb on the pad. The rectangular pad acts like a miniature duplicate of your display. As you slide your fingertip across the pad, the pointer (also called cursor) on the screen moves accordingly. When your finger reaches the edge of the pad,

Operating Your Computer 2-7

simply relocate yourself by lifting the finger and placing it on the other side of the pad.

Here are some common terms that you should know when using the touchpad:

Term	Action
Point	Move your finger on the pad until the cursor points to
	the selection on the screen.
Click	Press and release the left button.
	–or–
	Tap gently anywhere on the pad.
Double-click	Press and release the left button twice in quick
	succession.
	–or–
	Tap twice on the pad rapidly.
Drag and	Press and hold the left button, then move your finger
drop	until you reach your destination (drag). Finally, release
	the button (drop) when you finish dragging your
	selection to the destination. The object will drop into
	the new location.
	–or–
	Gently tap twice on the pad and on the second tap,
	keep your finger in contact with the pad. Then, move
	your finger across the pad to drag the selected object to
	your destination. When you lift your finger from the
	pad, the selected object will drop into place.

2-8 Operating Your Computer