Getac B300X Owner's Manual

Name: Getac B300X
Brand: Getac
SKU: 2004805
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B300

USER’S MANUAL

Rugged Mobile Computing Solutions

June 2011

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.

ENERGY STAR® is a government program that offers businesses and consumers energy-efficient solutions, making it easy to save money while protecting the environment for future generations.

Please reference ENERGY STAR® related information from www.energystar.gov.

As an ENERGY STAR® Partner, Getac Technology Corporation has determined that this product meets the ENERGY STAR® guidelines for energy efficiency.

An ENERGY STAR® qualified computer uses 70 % less electricity than computers without enabled power management features.

Earning the ENERGY STAR®

zWhen every home office is powered by equipment that has earned the ENERGY STAR®, the change will keep over 289 billion pounds of greenhouse gases out of the air.

zIf left inactive, ENERGY STAR® qualified computers enter a low-power mode and may use 15 watts or less. New chip technologies make power management features more reliable, dependable, and user-friendly than even just a few years ago.

zSpending a large portion of time in low-power mode not only saves energy, but helps equipment run cooler and last longer.

zBusinesses that use ENERGY STAR® enabled office equipment may realize additional savings on air conditioning and maintenance.

zOver its lifetime, ENERGY STAR® qualified equipment in a single home office (e.g., computer, monitor, printer, and fax) can save enough electricity to light an entire home for more than 4 years.

zPower management (“sleep settings”) on computers and monitors can result in much savings annually.

Remember, saving energy prevents pollution

Because most computer equipment is left on 24 hours a day, power management features are important for saving energy and are an easy way to reduce air pollution. By using less energy, these products help lower consumers’ utility bills, and prevent greenhouse gas emissions.

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
Opening the Cover .............................................................	1-5
Turning On and Off the Computer ...................................	1-6
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
Starting and Stopping the Computer....................................	2-2
Starting the Computer .......................................................	2-2
Stopping the Computer .....................................................	2-2
Using the Keyboard ................................................................	2-4
Typewriter Keys ..................................................................	2-4
Cursor-Control Keys............................................................	2-4
Numeric Keypad .................................................................	2-5
Function Keys......................................................................	2-6
Fn Key ..................................................................................	2-6
Hot Keys ..............................................................................	2-6
Using the Touchpad................................................................	2-9
Configuring the Touchpad...............................................	2-11

Using the Touchscreen (Optional) .......................................	2-12
Using the Quick Buttons.......................................................	2-14
Using the Hard Disk Drive ....................................................	2-16
Installing a Second Hard Disk Drive (Optional) ..............	2-16
Using the DVD Drive (Optional)...........................................	2-18
Inserting and Removing a Disc ........................................	2-19
Using the Network Features ................................................	2-21
Using the Modem .............................................................	2-21
Using the LAN ...................................................................	2-22
Using the Wireless LAN ....................................................	2-23
Using the Bluetooth Feature (Optional) .............................	2-26
Turning On/Off the Bluetooth Radio ..............................	2-26
Connecting to another Bluetooth Device.......................	2-28
Using the 3G Feature (Optional)..........................................	2-30
Installing a SIM Card.........................................................	2-31
Turning On/Off the 3G Radio ..........................................	2-33
Using the Fingerprint Sensor ...............................................	2-34
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
Installing a Second Battery Pack (Optional) .....................	3-7
Battery Low Signals and Actions .......................................	3-9
Power Management .............................................................	3-10
Hibernation.......................................................................	3-11
Power-Saving Tips.................................................................	3-12
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 (Optional).................................................	4-9
Using PC Cards.......................................................................	4-10
Using ExpressCards (Optional) .............................................	4-12
Using the MMC/SD Card Reader ..........................................	4-14
Using the Port Replicator (Optional)...................................	4-16
System Memory Upgrade .....................................................	4-17
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 ...................................................................	5-11
Boot Menu ........................................................................	5-13
Exit Menu ..........................................................................	5-14
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......................................................	7-6
When Traveling.......................................................................	7-8

iii

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
Hardware Device Problems................................................	8-5
Hard Disk Drive Problems...................................................	8-5
Keyboard, Mouse, 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 ................................................................	8-10
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

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:

zRugged computer

zAccessories:

−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 1BGetting 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 n below). Then, insert the other end through the first loop (as indicated by o below) and pull it tight.

2.Insert the other loop end to the hook on the computer (as indicated by n below). Then, insert the stylus end through the loop (as indicated by o 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 (n).

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

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 1BGetting Started

CAUTION:

zWhen 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.

zWhen 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.

Opening the Cover

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

Getting Started 1-5

Turning On and Off the Computer

Turning On

1.Make sure that the computer is connected to AC power or battery is fully charged.

2.Open the top cover.

3.Press the power button ( ).

4.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

To turn off the computer power, use the “Shut Down” command of your operating system.

NOTE: There are other ways you can stop the computer so that you will be back to where you left off when you next turn on the computer. (See “Stopping the Computer” in Chapter 2 for information.)

CAUTION: If you have to turn the computer on again immediately after turning it off, wait for at least five seconds. Turning the computer off and on rapidly can damage it.

1-6 1BGetting Started

Taking a Look at the Computer

NOTE:

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

zYou 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

n	Top Cover Latch	Locks the top cover.	P. 1-5

o	WWAN 3G	Should be pulled out for reception of	P. 2-30
	Antenna	mobile telecommunications signals.

p	Handle	Provides a convenient way to carry the
		computer.

Getting Started 1-7

Rear Components

Ref	Component	Description	See Also

n	Power	Connects the AC adapter.	P. 1-3
	Connector

o	USB Port	Connects a USB device, such as a USB	P. 4-5
		flash disk, printer, digital camera,
		joystick, and more.

p	Expansion Bus	Connects to a Port Replicator.	P. 4-16
	Connector

q	VGA Connector	Connects an external display monitor.	P. 4-2

r	Serial	Each of the two connectors connects a	P. 4-4
	Connectors	serial mouse or serial communication
		device.

s	Kensington	Locks the computer to a stationary	P. 7-2
	Lock	object for security.

1-8 1BGetting Started

Right-Side Components

Ref	Component	Description	See Also

n	Expansion Card	Depending on your model, the slot can
	Slot	be any of the following:

	ExpressCard	Accepts an ExpressCard/34 or	P. 4-12
	Slot	ExpressCard/54 for additional functions.

	PCMCIA Slot	Accepts a PC card for additional	P. 4-10
		functions.

o	Mini IEEE 1394	Connects an IEEE 1394 device such as a	P. 4-6
	Port	scanner, printer, DVCAM, and VCR.

p	RF (radio	Serves as the master on/off control for all	P. 2-24,
	frequency)	the wireless modules (wireless LAN,	2-26,
	On/Off Switch	Bluetooth, and WWAN).	2-30
		NOTE: Available modules on your
		computer depend on the configuration
		you purchased.

Getting Started 1-9

Ref	Component	Description	See Also
q MMC/SD Card		Accepts a MultiMediaCard (MMC) or	P. 4-14
	Reader	Secure Digital (SD) card for removable
		storage media.
r HDMI		Connects a HDMI (High-Definition	P. 4-2
	Connector	Multimedia Interface) monitor or TV set.
s RJ-11 Connector		Connects the telephone line.	P. 2-21
t Hard Disk Drive		Inside is the hard disk drive.	P. 2-16
	Compartment
u USB Port		Connects a USB device, such as a USB	P. 4-5
		flash disk, printer, digital camera, and
		joystick.
v Card Slot		Depending on your model, the slot can
		be any of the following:
	Smart Card	Accepts a smart card for additional	P. 4-9
	Reader	security feature.
	PCMCIA Slot	Accepts a PC card for additional	P. 4-10
		functions.
w 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 Antenna	Connects to the optional antenna for
	pass-through	GPS receiver.
	Connector
	(option)
	Audio Output	Connects a set of headphones or	P. 4-8
	Connector	external speakers with amplifier.
13	Microphone	Connects an external microphone.	P. 4-8
	Connector
14	RJ-45 Connector	Connects the LAN cable.	P. 2-22

1-10 1BGetting Started

Left-Side Components

Ref	Component	Description	See Also

n	Battery Pack	Supplies power to your computer when	P. 3-3
		external power is not connected.

o	Media Bay	Depending on your model, the media
		bay may contain any of the following:

	Super Multi	Accepts a compact disc for installing or	P. 2-18
	Drive	loading software, accessing data, and
		playing music/video.

	Secondary	Provides extra battery power.	P. 3-7
	Battery Pack

	Secondary Hard	Provides extra hard disk capacity.	P. 2-16
	Disk Drive

Getting Started 1-11

Top-open Components

Ref	Component	Description	See Also

n	LCD Screen	Displays the output of the computer.	P. 2-12
		May include the optional touchscreen
		feature.

1-12 1BGetting Started

Ref

Component

Description

Bottom Components

Ref	Component	Description	See Also

n	Memory Slots	Inside are the memory slots for	P. 4-17
		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: 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

Starting and Stopping the

Computer

There are a number of ways to start and stop the computer.

Starting the Computer

You always start the computer using the power button.

A computer starts up with an operating system (OS) existing on the storage device such as the hard disk. The computer will automatically load the OS after you turn it on. This process is called booting.

NOTE: An operating system is the platform for all your software application programs to run on. Your computer uses the Microsoft Windows operating system.

Stopping the Computer

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

To stop in	Do this...	To start up or
this mode...		resume again

Off	Follow the shutdown procedure of your	Press the power
	operating system. This can prevent loss	button.
	of unsaved data or damage to your
	software programs.
	If the system is locked up because of
	hardware or software problems, press
	the power button to turn off the
	computer.

2-2 Operating Your Computer

To stop in	Do this...	To start up or
this mode...		resume again

Sleep	Depending on your settings in	Press any key.
	Windows, you can place the computer
	in Sleep mode by:
	• Closing the display cover
	• Pressing the Fn+F12 hot key
	• Pressing the power button

Hibernation	Depending on your settings in	Press the power
	Windows, you can place the computer	button.
	in Hibernation mode by:
	• Closing the display cover
	• Pressing the Fn+F12 hot key
	• Pressing the power button

If you choose to stop in Sleep or Hibernation mode, you can return to where you left off the next time you start up the computer. (See “Power Management” in Chapter 3 for more information.)

Operating Your Computer 2-3

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:

zTypewriter keys

zCursor-control keys

zNumeric keys

zFunction 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.

2-4 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:

zWhen 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.

zSome 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 2-5

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 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.

2-6 Operating Your Computer

+ 118 hidden pages

Ref Component	Description	See Also
v Fingerprint	Serves as the fingerprint verification,	P. 2-34
Sensor	preventing unauthorized access to your
	computer.
w 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. 1-6
	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. 2-24
Bluetooth	Lights green when Bluetooth radio is on.	P. 2-26
3G	Lights green when 3G radio is on.	P. 2-30