Getac Technology 035 User Manual

V100 Operation Manual

(This version is for Safety Approval only)

(October 2008)

TRADEMARKS All brand and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.

NOTE The information in this manual is subject to change without notice.

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 determined that this product meets the ENERGY STAR

Partner, MiTAC Technology Corporation has

guidelines for

energy efficiency.

An ENERGY STAR

qualified computer uses 70 % less electricity than

computers without enabled power management features.

Earning the ENERGY STAR®

z When 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.

z If 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.

z Spending a large portion of time in low-power mode not only saves

energy, but helps equipment run cooler and last longer.

z Businesses that use ENERGY STAR

enabled office equipment may

realize additional savings on air conditioning and maintenance.

z Over 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.

z Power 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

Table of Contents........................................................................i

Preface v

Notational Conventions.......................................................vi

Getting Started........................................................................1-1

Getting the Computer Running ............................................ 1-2

Unpacking ........................................................................ 1-2

Connecting to AC Power ................................................. 1-2

Opening and Closing the Cover ....................................... 1-4

Operating in Tablet Mode ................................................ 1-4

Turning On and Off the Computer................................... 1-5

Attaching the Hand Strap ................................................. 1-7

Taking a Look at the Computer............................................ 1-8

Right-Side Components ................................................... 1-8

Left-Side Components ..................................................... 1-9

Rear Components ........................................................... 1-10

Front Components.......................................................... 1-11

Bottom Components....................................................... 1-12

Top-open Components ................................................... 1-13

Where to Go from Here...................................................... 1-15

Operating Your Computer......................................................2-1

Starting and Stopping the Computer .................................... 2-2

Starting the Computer ...................................................... 2-2

Stopping the Computer .................................................... 2-2

Using the Internal Keyboard ................................................ 2-4

Typewriter Keys............................................................... 2-4

Cursor-Control Keys ........................................................ 2-5

Numeric Keypad .............................................................. 2-5

Function Keys .................................................................. 2-6

Fn Key.............................................................................. 2-6

Hot Keys .......................................................................... 2-6

Using the Software Keyboard .............................................. 2-9

Using the Touchpad ........................................................... 2-10

Configuring the Touchpad ............................................. 2-11

Using the Touchscreen (Optional) ..................................... 2-12

Using the Active Digitizer Feature (Optional) ................... 2-13

Using the Hard Disk Drive................................................. 2-15

Using the Video Features ................................................... 2-16

Configuring the Display Modes ..................................... 2-16

Using the Audio Features................................................... 2-18

Connecting Audio Devices ............................................ 2-18

Using the Communication Features ................................... 2-19

Using the Modem........................................................... 2-19

Using the LAN ............................................................... 2-19

Using the Wireless LAN ................................................ 2-20

Using the GPS ................................................................ 2-23

Managing Power......................................................................3-1

AC Adapter .......................................................................... 3-2

Battery Pack ......................................................................... 3-3

Charging the Battery Pack ............................................... 3-3

Battery Automatic Calibration Utility.............................. 3-4

Checking the Battery Level.............................................. 3-6

Replacing the Battery Pack .............................................. 3-7

Battery Low Signals and Actions..................................... 3-9

Power Management............................................................ 3-10

Hibernation..................................................................... 3-11

Power-Saving Tips ............................................................. 3-12

Expanding Your Computer.....................................................4-1

Connecting an External Monitor (Optional) ........................ 4-2

Connecting a Serial Device .................................................. 4-3

Connecting a USB Device.................................................... 4-4

Using Smart Cards (Optional).............................................. 4-5

Inserting and Removing a Smart Card ............................. 4-5

Using PC Cards .................................................................... 4-6

Inserting and Removing a PC Card.................................. 4-6

Using ExpressCards (Optional)............................................ 4-7

ExpressCard Type ............................................................ 4-7

Inserting and Removing an ExpressCard ......................... 4-8

Using the Card Reader ......................................................... 4-9

Using the Port Replicator (Optional).................................. 4-10

System Memory Upgrade................................................... 4-11

Using BIOS Setup ...................................................................5-1

When to Use BIOS Setup..................................................... 5-2

When to Use..................................................................... 5-2

When and How to Use the System Recovery Feature.......... 5-3

When to Use..................................................................... 5-3

Starting System Recovery ................................................ 5-3

Installing Software Drivers.....................................................6-1

How to Use the Driver Disc ................................................. 6-2

Caring for the Computer.........................................................7-1

Protecting the Computer....................................................... 7-2

Using the Windows Security 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

When Traveling.................................................................... 7-6

Troubleshooting......................................................................8-1

Preliminary Checklist........................................................... 8-2

Solving Common Problems.................................................. 8-3

iii

Battery Problems.............................................................. 8-4

Display Problems ............................................................. 8-4

Hardware Device Problems.............................................. 8-5

Hard Disk Drive Problems ............................................... 8-6

Keyboard, Mouse, and Touchpad Problems .................... 8-6

LAN Problems ................................................................. 8-7

WLAN Problems.............................................................. 8-7

Modem Problems ............................................................. 8-8

PC Card Problems ............................................................ 8-9

Power Management Problems.......................................... 8-9

Software Problems ......................................................... 8-10

Sound Problems ............................................................. 8-10

Startup Problems ............................................................ 8-11

Other Problems............................................................... 8-12

Resetting the Computer...................................................... 8-13

Specifications.........................................................................A-1

Regulatory Information..............................................................1

On the Use of the System.........................................................2

Class B Regulations .............................................................2

Safety Notices ......................................................................3

On the Use of the RF Device....................................................6

USA and Canada Safety Requirements and Notices............6

European Union CE Marking and Compliance Notices ......9

Preface

This manual contains information that will help you operate the computer. It is divided into 8 chapters and 2 appendices.

z Chapter 1, Getting Started, takes you through the process of setting

up the computer and identifying its external components.

z Chapter 2, Operating Your Computer, tells you how to use the

computer’s components and features.

z Chapter 3, Managing Power, provides information on power. z Chapter 4, Expanding Your Computer, provides information on

installing and using peripheral devices.

z Chapter 5, Using BIOS Setup, describes the BIOS Setup program

that configures the computer’s BIOS settings.

z Chapter 6, Installing Software Drivers, describes how to install the

drivers and utilities supplied with the computer.

z Chapter 7, Caring for the Computer, gives you tips in care and

maintenance.

z Chapter 8, Troubleshooting, gives solutions to common problems

you may encounter when using the computer.

z Appendix A, Specifications, gives a brief specification of the

computer.

z Appendix B, Regulatory Information, provides regulatory

statements and safety notices on your computer.

Notational Conventions

Throughout this manual, the following conventions are used to distinguish elements of text.

NOTE: identifies additional information that requires special attention. CAUTION: identifies important information that, if not followed, may result in loss of

data or damage to the computer.

Keyboard keys are shown in a bold typeset. For example:

Press the

Enter key to complete.

When keys are joined by a plus sign (+), press the first key, and, while keeping the first key down, press the remaining keys, finally release all the keys. When necessary, keys are also shown in graphics.

A title, command, setup item, or button that you can see on the screen is shown in boldface. A value or an option that you can select for a setup item is shown in italic. For example:

Select Power Schemes, set it to Portable/Laptop, and then click

OK button.

the

Chapter 1

CHAPTER

Getting Started

Congratulations on purchasing this rugged computer.

This chapter first tells you step by step how to get the computer up and running. You will find instructions for these procedures:

z Unpacking

z Connecting to AC power

z Opening and closing the cover

z Turning on the computer

z Turning off the computer

z Attaching the grid-type hand strap

Then, you will find a section briefly introducing the external components of the computer. And the last section navigates you to the information you may need after the computer is ready for use.

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:

z Notebook computer

z Accessories:

− AC adapter

− AC power cord

− Grid-type hand strap

− Driver disc

− Stylus (option)

− Digitizer pen (option)

− Size “AAAA” battery (option)

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.

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

Getting Started 1-2

adapters may damage the computer.

1. Make sure that the computer is turned off.

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.

CAUTION:

z 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.

Getting Started 1-3

z 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.

Opening and Closing the Cover

Open the top cover by pulling up on latch A and releasing latch B and lifting up the cover. You can tilt the cover forward or backward for optimal viewing clarity.

Close the top cover by closing the display. Then position latch B on the display side and bring latch A down to fix the display in place.

Operating in Tablet Mode

In addition to being used as a regular notebook computer (Laptop mode), your computer can also be operated in Tablet mode. In Tablet mode, the computer can be operated using the touchscreen or active digitizer feature with the software keyboard (see chapter 2), and the tablet buttons (see later section on “Front Components”), instead of the internal keyboard and the touchpad.

1. Open the top cover so that it is almost perpendicular with the

keyboard of the computer.

2. Turn the display counter-clockwise by 180

Getting Started 1-4

CAUTION: Do not rotate the display more than 180o, or attempt to rotate the display clockwise.

3. Close the computer with the display facing up. Then pull up on the

latch A.

4. Position the latch B on the display side, then bring latch A down to fix

the display in place.

In Tablet mode, the computer can be operated while holding it as shown.

To return to Laptop mode, perform the steps for changing the computer into Tablet mode in reverse order.

Turning On and Off the Computer

Turning On

1. Make sure that the computer is connected to AC power.

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

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

Getting Started 1-6

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.

Attaching the Hand Strap

The hand strap can be attached to any two sides of the four (option) corners of your computer.

Standard setup: two buckles on the left/right front side of your computer.

To release, press on the right spring latch first to detach the right side. Then release the left side.

Optional setup: buckles on four corners of your computer.

CAUTION:

z The strap has been designed to carry only the weight of the computer. Therefore,

be sure that the strap does not carry a weight that exceeds the weight of the computer. The strap may accidentally come loose from the computer.

z Do not use a strap that is damaged or about to tear.

Getting Started 1-7

Taking a Look at the Computer

This section identifies the external components of the computer and briefly describes the function of each component.

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

Right-Side Components

Ref Component Description

Battery Pack

Compartment

Hard Disk Drive

Compartment

Getting Started 1-8

Inside is the battery pack that supplies power to your computer when external power is not connected.

Inside is the hard disk drive.

Left-Side Components

Ref Component Description

Power Connector

USB Ports

RJ-11 Connector

RJ-45 Connector

ExpressCard Slot

(upper)

PCMCIA Slot

(lower)

PCMCIA Slot (upper)

Smart Card Reader (lower)

Card Reader

Connects the AC adapter.

Each of the two ports connects a USB device, such as a flash disk, printer, digital camera, joystick, and more.

Connects the telephone line.

Connects the LAN cable.

Accepts an ExpressCard for additional functions (option).

Accepts a PC card for additional functions.

Accepts a smart card for additional security feature (option).

Accepts a SD (Secure Digital) card for removable storage media.

Getting Started 1-9

Rear Components

Ref Component Description

Hand Strap

Holder Audio Output

Connector Microphone

Connector Kensington Lock

VGA Connector

Serial Connector

The hand strap can be attached to the two holders for convenient handling of your computer.

Connects a set of headphones, external speakers with amplifier, or an audio recording device.

Connects an external microphone.

Locks the computer to a stationary object for security.

Connects an external display monitor.

NOTE: Depending on your model, this port could be a serial

connector.

Connects a serial mouse or serial communication device.

Getting Started 1-10

Front Components

Ref Component Description

Hand Strap

Holder EasyTap Utility

Button Sunlight-

readable Button Reset Button

Software

Keyboard Button

RF Button

Top Cover Latch

Power Button

The hand strap can be attached to the two holders for convenient handling of your computer.

Toggles the “EasyTap” utility ON and OFF.

Toggles the sunlight-readable function ON and OFF.

Serves as the Ctrl+Alt+Del keyboard buttons.

Shows or hides the software keyboard on your LCD display.

Toggles the wireless LAN ON and OFF.

Locks the top cover.

Turns the computer power ON and OFF.

Getting Started 1-11

Bottom Components

Ref Component Description

Antenna Connector

Expansion Bus

Connector Wireless LAN

(WLAN) Card Slot Speaker

Memory Slot

Getting Started 1-12

Inside is the connector for using an external antenna.

Inside is the expansion bus connector for using a Port Replicator.

Inside is the mini PCI-E slot for using a mini PCI-E WLAN card.

Sends out sound and voice from your computer.

Inside is the memory slot for expanding the memory size of your computer.

Top-open Components

Ref Component Description

CMOS Camera

WLAN Antenna

LCD Screen

Light Sensor

Keyboard

Touchpad

Indicators

Getting Started 1-13

Allows you to use your computer’s camera function.

Inside is the antenna for wireless LAN (local area network) transmission.

Displays the output of the computer.

Adjusts the LCD brightness and optional keyboard backlight automatically surrounding.

Serves as the data input device of the computer.

Serves as the pointing device of the computer.

Show the current status of the computer’s devices.

Ref Component Description

Stylus

AC Power indicator

Lights green when the computer is turned on and using AC power.

Battery Charge indicator

Lights green when the battery is fully charged.

Lights yellow when the battery is being charged.

Blinks yellow when the battery’s capacity is below 10 %.

Blinks green when battery’s temperature is too high (over 60

Hard disk drive in-use indicator

Lights green when computer is accessing the hard disk drive.

Lights red when optional hard disk drive heater is on for low temperature operation.

RF (wireless LAN ) indicator

Num Lock indicator

Caps Lock indicator

Provides a convenient way to use the touchscreen. Can be stretched for better grip and handling.

C).

Getting Started 1-14

Where to Go from Here

As your computer is ready for operation, you may want to do any of the following now:

For this purpose... Do this...

To know more about the computer... Go on to the next chapter.

To install the operating system if your dealer has not already done so...

To know more about the operating system...

To install the drivers if your dealer has not already done so...

To charge the battery pack for the first time...

See the operating system manual.

Read the operating system manual.

See Chapter 6.

See “Charging the Battery Pack” in Chapter 3.

Getting Started 1-15

Chapter 2

CHAPTER

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 but are new to notebook computers, you may choose to read only the parts containing information unique to your computer.

Described in this chapter are the operating basics of these components:

z Keyboard

z Touchpad

z Touchscreen

z Active Digitizer (option)

z Hard disk drive

And these features:

z Starting and stopping the computer

z Video features

z Audio features

z Communication features

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 Vista 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

this mode...

Off Follow the shutdown procedure of your

operating system. This can prevent loss 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.

Sleep Depending on your settings in Windows,

you can place the computer in Sleep mode by:

• Closing the display cover

• Pressing the Fn+F10 hot key

• Pressing the power button

Operating Your Computer 2-2

Do this... To start up or

resume again

Press the power button.

Press any key.

To stop in

this mode...

Hibernation Depending on your settings in Windows,

you can place the computer in

Do this... To start up or

resume again

Press the power button.

Hibernation mode by:

• Closing the display cover

• 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 Internal Keyboard

Your keyboard has all the standard functions of a full-sized computer keyboard plus a

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

z Typewriter keys

z Cursor-control keys

z Numeric keys

z Function keys

Typewriter Keys

Typewriter keys are similar to the keys on a typewriter. Several keys are added such as the the lock keys ( indicators light up.

Fn key added for specific functions.

Ctrl, Alt, Esc, and lock keys for special purposes. When

Caps Lock and Num Lk) are pressed, their corresponding

The Control ( with other keys for program-specific functions. The Escape (

Ctrl) / Alternate (Alt) key is normally used in combination

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.

Operating Your Computer 2-4

Cursor-Control Keys

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.

Numeric Keypad

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

Operating Your Computer 2-5

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