Getac Technology S400 Users manual
S400
USER’S MANUAL
Rugged Mobile Computing Solutions
August 2010
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®
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.
If left inactive, ENERGY STAR
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.
®
qualified computers enter a low-power
Spending a large portion of time in low-power mode not only saves
energy, but helps equipment run cooler and last longer.
Businesses that use ENERGY STAR
®
enabled office equipment may
realize additional savings on air conditioning and maintenance.
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.
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
Getting Started ......................................................................................................................................... 1-1
Getting the Computer Running ............................................ 1-2
Unpacking ............................................................................ 1-2
Connecting to AC Power .................................................. 1-3
Opening the Cover ............................................................ 1-4
Turning On and Off the Computer ................................... 1-5
Taking a Look at the Computer ............................................ 1-7
Rear Components ............................................................... 1-7
Right-Side Components ..................................................... 1-8
Left-Side Components........................................................ 1-9
Top-open Components ................................................... 1-10
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 ....................................................................... 2-3
Fn Key .................................................................................... 2-3
Hot Keys ................................................................................ 2-3
Using the Touchpad ................................................................ 2-6
Configuring the Touchpad ................................................ 2-8
Using the Touchscreen (Optional) ........................................ 2-9
Using Multi-touch Gestures (Windows 7 Only) .............. 2-10
Using the Input Panel ............................................................ 2-13
Using the DVD Drive .............................................................. 2-14
i
Inserting and Removing a Disc ....................................... 2-14
Using the Network Features ................................................. 2-16
Using the Modem (Optional) .......................................... 2-16
Using the LAN ..................................................................... 2-17
Using the Wireless LAN ...................................................... 2-18
Using the Bluetooth Feature ................................................ 2-22
Turning On/Off the Bluetooth Radio .............................. 2-22
Connecting to another Bluetooth Device .................... 2-24
Using the Fingerprint Sensor (Optional) .............................. 2-26
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 ............................................... 3-4
Replacing the Battery Pack .............................................. 3-5
Battery Low Signals and Actions ....................................... 3-7
Power Management .............................................................. 3-8
Hibernation ........................................................................... 3-9
Power-Saving Tips .................................................................. 3-10
Expanding Your Computer ................................................................................................................ 4-1
Connecting an External Monitor (Optional) ....................... 4-2
Connecting a Serial Device .................................................. 4-3
Connecting a USB Device ..................................................... 4-4
Connecting an eSATA Device .............................................. 4-5
Connecting an IEEE 1394 Device ......................................... 4-6
Connecting Audio Devices ................................................... 4-7
Using Smart Cards (Optional) ................................................ 4-8
Using PC Cards ......................................................................... 4-9
Using ExpressCards (Optional) ............................................. 4-11
Using Storage Cards .............................................................. 4-13
Using BIOS Setup and System Recovery .................................................................................... 5-1
BIOS Setup ................................................................................ 5-2
ii
When and How to Use ........................................................ 5-2
Information Menu................................................................ 5-3
Main Menu ........................................................................... 5-4
Advanced Menu ................................................................. 5-5
Security Menu ...................................................................... 5-7
Boot Menu ............................................................................ 5-9
Exit Menu ............................................................................ 5-10
System Recovery ................................................................... 5-12
Caring for the Computer .................................................................................................................... 6-1
Protecting the Computer ....................................................... 6-2
Using an Anti-Virus Strategy ............................................... 6-2
Using Windows Action Center ........................................... 6-2
Using the Cable Lock ......................................................... 6-3
Taking Care of the Computer ............................................... 6-4
Location Guidelines ............................................................ 6-4
General Guidelines ............................................................. 6-4
Cleaning Guidelines ........................................................... 6-5
Battery Pack Guidelines ..................................................... 6-5
Touchscreen Guidelines ..................................................... 6-6
When Traveling ........................................................................ 6-8
Troubleshooting ..................................................................................................................................... 7-1
Preliminary Checklist ............................................................... 7-2
Solving Common Problems .................................................... 7-3
Battery Problems ................................................................. 7-3
Bluetooth Wireless Transmission Problems ....................... 7-3
Display Problems ................................................................. 7-4
ExpressCard Problems ........................................................ 7-5
Hardware Device Problems .............................................. 7-5
Hard Disk Drive Problems ................................................... 7-6
Keyboard, Mouse, and Touchpad Problems ................. 7-6
LAN Problems ....................................................................... 7-7
Modem Problems ................................................................ 7-7
DVD Drive Problems ............................................................ 7-7
PC Card Problems ............................................................... 7-8
iii
Power Management Problems ......................................... 7-9
Software Problems .............................................................. 7-9
Sound Problems ................................................................. 7-10
Startup Problems ............................................................... 7-10
WLAN Problems ................................................................. 7-11
Other Problems .................................................................. 7-12
Resetting the Computer ....................................................... 7-13
Specifications ............................................................................................................................................. 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 .. 8
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
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
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. Plug the DC cord of the AC adapter to the power connector of the
computer ().
2. Plug the female end of the AC power cord to the AC adapter and the
male end to an electrical outlet ().
3. 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:
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
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 the Cover
CAUTION: Be gentle when opening and closing the cover. Opening it vigorously
or slamming it shut could damage the computer.
Open the top cover by pulling the cover latch and lifting up the cover.
You can tilt the cover forward or backward for optimal viewing clarity.
1-4 Getting Started
To...
Do this...
Power off
(Shutdown)
Use the Windows Start menu in the lower left and follow
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
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
When you finish a working session, you can stop the system by turning off
the power or leaving it in Sleep or Hibernation mode:
Getting Started 1-5
To...
Do this...
more information.)
* “Sleep” is the default setting of the power button. You may change
what the power button does in Windows Control Panel.
Press the power button to resume or turn on the system from any of these
modes.
1-6 Getting Started
Ref
Component
Description
Power Connector
Connects the AC adapter.
USB Port
Connects a USB device, such as a USB flash disk,
printer, digital camera, joystick, and more.
RS232 Serial
Connector
Connects a serial mouse or serial
communication device. (The available of the
serial port on the right depends on the model.)
RJ-45 Connector
Connects the LAN cable.
RJ-11 Connector
(optional)
Connects the telephone line.
VGA Connector
Connects an external display monitor.
Kensington Lock
Locks the computer to a stationary object for
security.
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 water- and
dust-proof integrity.
Rear Components
Getting Started 1-7
Ref
Component
Description
SIM Card Slot
(optional)
Accepts a 3G SIM card. But this configuration has
no 3G feature.
Smart Card
Reader
Accepts a smart card for additional security
feature.
PCMCIA Slot (left)
Accepts a PC card for additional functions.
ExpressCard Slot
(right)
Accepts an ExpressCard/34 or ExpressCard/54 for
additional functions.
NOTE: Can be a PCMCIA Slot depending on the
model.
Battery Pack
Supplies power to your computer when external
power is not connected.
Super Multi Drive
Accepts a compact disc for installing or loading
software, accessing data, and playing
music/video.
Right-Side Components
1-8 Getting Started
Ref
Component
Description
Audio Output
Connector
Connects a set of headphones or external
speakers with amplifier.
Microphone
Connector
Connects an external microphone.
eSATA/USB Combo
Port
Connects an eSATA device such as an external
hard drive or optical drive.
Can also function as a USB port.
RF (radio
frequency)
Switch
Serves as the master on/off control for all the
wireless modules (wireless LAN, Bluetooth, and
WWAN).
Storage Card
Reader
Accepts a MultiMediaCard (MMC), Secure Digital
(SD), Memory Stick (MS) or Memory Stick PRO (MS
PRO) card for removable storage media.
USB Port
Connects a USB device, such as a USB flash disk,
printer, digital camera, joystick, and more.
NOTE: These two connectors support USB power
share feature.
Mini IEEE 1394 Port
Connects an IEEE 1394 device such as a scanner,
printer, DVCAM, and VCR.
Left-Side Components
Getting Started 1-9
Ref
Component
Description
Top Cover Latch
Locks the top cover.
Camera Lens
(optional)
Allows you to use the camera function.
LCD Screen
Displays the output of the computer. May include
the optional touchscreen feature.
Quick Buttons
Activates specific functions.
Power Button
Turns the power on or off (Sleep mode by default).
Top-open Components
1-10 Getting Started
Ref
Component
Description
Keyboard
Serves as the data input device of the computer.
Microphone
Receives sound and voice for the computer.
Fingerprint
Sensor
(optional)
Serves as the fingerprint verification, preventing
unauthorized access to your computer.
P1 Button
Starts G-Manager by default.
10
Stylus
Serves as the input device by tapping on the screen
to make selections and enter information.
11
Touchpad
Serves as the pointing device of the computer.
12
Indicators
Power
Lights green when computer is on.
Blinks green when computer is in Sleep mode.
Battery
Charge
Lights green when the battery is fully 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.
Hard Disk/
DVD Drive
Blinks green when computer is reading / writing data
to the hard disk or DVD drive.
Num Lock /
HDD Heater
(option)
Lights green when Num Lock is on.
Caps Lock
Lights green when Caps Lock is on.
WLAN
Lights green when WLAN radio is on.
Bluetooth
Lights green when Bluetooth radio is on.
Getting Started 1-11
Ref
Component
Description
13
Stereo Speaker
Sends out sound and voice from your computer.
1-12 Getting Started
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
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.
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 alternative function is
identified by a framed-up letter, number, or icon. 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.
Operating Your Computer 2-3
Key
Description
Switches the wireless LAN radio on and off.
Decreases the sound volume.
Increases the sound volume.
Switches the display output to one of the following
when external devices are connected.
Upon booting the system with CRT:
LCD CRT
LCD & CRT
NOTE: This function only applies to Plug & Play display
devices.
Decreases the LCD brightness (16 levels).
Increases the LCD brightness (16 levels).
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 backlight on and off.
You can easily identify the hot keys with the icons imprinted on the keytop.
The hot keys are described next.
2-4 Operating Your Computer
Key
Description
Serves as the sleep button that you can define with
Windows’ Power Options.
Switches the keyboard backlight on and off (option).
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.)
Operating Your Computer 2-5
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.
2-6 Operating Your Computer
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.
Work surface
within the red
frame
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, 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:
Operating Your Computer 2-7
Term
Action
Drag and
drop
Press and hold the left button, then move your finger
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.
Scroll
To scroll is to move up and down or left and right in the
working area on the screen.
To move vertically, place your finger on the right or left
edge of the pad and slide your finger up and down
along the edge. To move horizontally, place your
finger on the top or bottom edge of the pad and slide
your finger left and right.
This function works only after you install the touchpad
driver supplied with the computer and it may not work
for all applications.
TABLE NOTE: If you swap the left and right buttons, “tapping” on the
touchpad as an alternative method of pressing the left button will no
longer be valid.
Configuring the Touchpad
You may want to configure the touchpad to suit your needs. For example,
if you are a left-handed user, you can swap the two buttons so that you
can use the right button as the left button and vice versa. You can also
change the size of the on-screen pointer, the speed of the pointer, and so
on.
To configure the touchpad, go to Control Panel Mouse Properties.
2-8 Operating Your Computer
Using the Touchscreen (Optional)
NOTE:
Make sure the touchscreen driver has been installed properly.
Press Fn+F8 to toggle the touchscreen on or off.
CAUTION: Do not use a sharp object such as a ballpoint pen or pencil on the
touchscreen. Doing so may damage the touchscreen surface. Use your finger or
the included stylus.
The touchscreen is a touch-sensitive device that allows you to navigate
on the screen without using a keyboard, touchpad, or mouse.
Use the included stylus to select objects on the screen. The stylus can be
stretched for better grip and handling.
Operating Your Computer 2-9
Term
Action
Click/Point
Tap gently on the touchscreen.
Double-click
Tap twice on the touchscreen rapidly.
Drag and
drop
Press lightly on the touchscreen and move your finger
until you reach your destination (drag). Finally, release
your finger (drop) when you finish dragging your
selection to the destination. The object will drop into
the new location.
Gestures
Actions
( = finger down; = finger up)
Descriptions
Pan
(Scroll)
or
Drag 1 or 2 fingers up or down.
Use panning to see
another part of a
page that has scroll
bars.
Here are some common terms that you should know when using the
touchscreen:
Using Multi-touch Gestures (Windows 7 Only)
If your computer model comes with multi-touch-capable screen and
Windows 7, you can interact with your computer by placing two fingers on
the screen. The movement of the fingers across the screen creates
“gestures,” which send commands to the computer.
Here are the multi-touch gestures that you can use:
2-10 Operating Your Computer
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