HP OmniBook 2100/3100
User’s Handbook
HP OMNIBOOK 2100/3100 USER’S HANDBOOK...................................4
Using This Online Handbook.................................................................................................... 4
Finding More Information........................................................................................................4
Notice.........................................................................................................................................5
1. INTRODUCING THE OMNIBOOK ........................................................6
Identifying the Parts of the OmniBook .....................................................................................7
Learning About Windows .........................................................................................................9
Safety Information..................................................................................................................... 9
Working in Comfort................................................................................................................10
2. OPERATING THE OMNIBOOK ..........................................................11
Powering the OmniBook.........................................................................................................11
To connect ac power..............................................................................................................11
Starting and Stopping the OmniBook.....................................................................................12
To start and stop the OmniBook ............................................................................................12
To reset the OmniBook..........................................................................................................13
To transport the OmniBook................................................................................................... 13
Using the Touch Pad................................................................................................................13
To use the touch pad..............................................................................................................13
To configure the touch pad....................................................................................................14
Using the OmniBook Display.................................................................................................. 14
To adjust the display..............................................................................................................14
To extend the life of the display.............................................................................................15
Adjusting the Sound System ....................................................................................................15
To adjust the volume manually.............................................................................................. 15
To adjust the volume in Windows ..........................................................................................15
Using the OmniBook Keyboard.............................................................................................. 16
To use the Fn hot keys...........................................................................................................16
To use the Windows keys....................................................................................................... 17
To use the embedded keypad .................................................................................................17
To use the Alt Gr key ............................................................................................................17
1
Checking the Status of the OmniBook....................................................................................19
To interpret status lights........................................................................................................19
To interpret the status panel indicators ..................................................................................19
Protecting the OmniBook........................................................................................................20
To set or change a password..................................................................................................20
To delete a password .............................................................................................................21
To attach a security cable.......................................................................................................22
To install McAfee VirusScan.................................................................................................22
3. MANAGING BATTERY POWER......................................................... 23
Recharging and Replacing Batteries......................................................................................23
To respond to a low-battery warning......................................................................................23
To recharge the battery..........................................................................................................24
To replace the battery ............................................................................................................24
Conserving Battery Power......................................................................................................25
To optimize battery operating time ........................................................................................25
To get the most from your batteries........................................................................................26
To change a time-out setting..................................................................................................26
4. MAKING CONNECTIONS................................................................... 28
Using Plug-In Modules and Storage Media............................................................................28
To replace a plug-in module..................................................................................................28
To install the floppy disk drive externally.............................................................................. 29
To insert or eject a floppy disk...............................................................................................30
To insert or remove a CD ...................................................................................................... 30
To insert or eject a Zip disk ...................................................................................................31
Connecting External Devices ..................................................................................................31
To connect an external monitor .............................................................................................31
To connect a printer or other parallel device..........................................................................32
To connect a serial mouse or other serial device..................................................................... 32
To connect an external PS/2 keyboard or a PS/2 mouse .........................................................33
To connect a USB device.......................................................................................................33
To connect an audio source, a microphone, or headphones .................................................... 34
To make an infrared connection ............................................................................................34
Using PC Cards.......................................................................................................................35
To insert a PC Card...............................................................................................................35
To remove a PC Card ............................................................................................................36
Using Docking Products..........................................................................................................37
To install a docking tray........................................................................................................37
To dock the OmniBook..........................................................................................................37
To undock the OmniBook......................................................................................................39
5. MAINTENANCE AND TROUBLESHOOTING.....................................40
2
Cleaning the Computer...........................................................................................................40
To clean the case...................................................................................................................40
To clean the display...............................................................................................................40
Solving Common Problems......................................................................................................40
Accessory Problems...............................................................................................................41
Audio Problems.....................................................................................................................42
Display Problems...................................................................................................................42
Hard Disk Drive Problems.....................................................................................................43
Infrared Problems..................................................................................................................43
Keyboard and Pointing Device Problems ............................................................................... 44
Memory Problems .................................................................................................................44
PC Card (PCMCIA) Problems............................................................................................... 44
Performance Problems...........................................................................................................45
Power and Battery Problems.................................................................................................. 45
Printing Problems..................................................................................................................47
Serial and Parallel Problems..................................................................................................47
Startup Problems...................................................................................................................48
INDEX......................................................................................................49
3
HP OmniBook 2100/3100 User’s Handbook
• Using This Online Handbook.
• Finding More Information.
• Notice.
This handbook describes how to use the OmniBook with a Microsoft® Windows®
operating system. It focuses on the special Hewlett-Packard hardware and software,
not the Windows operating system itself. For questions about the use of the
operating system, refer to the Microsoft Windows manual shipped with the
OmniBook.
Using This Online Handbook
This online User’s Handbook looks similar to a printed manual—and it works like a
printed manual in many ways, too. However, you can do several handy things you
can’t do with a manual. For example, you can make the type larger or smaller. You
can click pictures to enlarge them. You can add electronic bookmarks for marking
key information. And you can print all or part of the manual on your printer.
• Press F1. You’ll see a description of the features of this online manual.
Finding More Information
This OmniBook User’s Handbook introduces the OmniBook and shows you how to
operate and troubleshoot your OmniBook. For more information about using your
OmniBook, look in these additional places:
• The printed OmniBook Reference Guide shows how to set up the operating
system, install and connect accessories, and maintain and upgrade the
OmniBook.
• The Microsoft Windows manual, shipped with your OmniBook, contains
information about using the standard features of your Windows operating
system.
• The online Help for Windows applications provides information about those
applications. Use the Help menu or Help button, or just press F1.
• The OmniBook Notes icon gives late-breaking information available after the
online manual was completed. Click Start, Programs, OmniBook Library,
OmniBook Notes.
• Many bookstores have books about Windows for people with different levels of
experience.
• For updates to the BIOS and other technical information, connect to our website
on the Internet at http://www.hp.com/omnibook.
• You can obtain a backup copy of the OmniBook Reference Guide (which came
with your OmniBook) from our website (http://www.hp.com/omnibook). You can
view or print it using an Acrobat viewer, available free of charge through our
4
website. To re-install the User’s Handbook onto your hard drive, insert the
Recovery CD and run Omnibook\Hputils\Disk1\Setup.Exe.
• OmniBook accessories may be purchased online. For the latest information, visit
our website at http://www.hp.com/omnibook.
Notice
This manual and any examples contained herein are provided “as is” and are subject
to change without notice. Hewlett-Packard Company makes no warranty of any kind
with regard to this manual, including, but not limited to, the implied warranties of
merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. Hewlett-Packard Co. shall not be
liable for any errors or for incidental or consequential damages in connection with
the furnishing, performance, or use of this manual or the examples herein.
Consumer transactions in Australia and the United Kingdom: The above disclaimers
and limitations shall not apply to Consumer transactions in Australia and the United
Kingdom and shall not affect the statutory rights of Consumers.
© Copyright Hewlett-Packard Company 1998. All rights reserved. Reproduction,
adaptation, or translation of this manual is prohibited without prior written permission
of Hewlett-Packard Company, except as allowed under the copyright laws.
The programs that control this product are copyrighted and all rights are reserved.
Reproduction, adaptation, or translation of those programs without prior written
permission of Hewlett-Packard Co. is also prohibited.
Portions of the programs that control this product may also be copyrighted by
Microsoft Corporation, SystemSoft Corp., Crystal Semiconductor Corporation,
Phoenix Technologies, Ltd., and NeoMagic Corporation. See the individual programs
for additional copyright notices.
Microsoft, MS, MS-DOS, and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft
Corporation. Pentium and the Intel Inside logo are U.S. registered trademarks and
MMX is a U.S. trademark of Intel Corporation.
For warranty information, see the Support and Service booklet.
Hewlett-Packard Company
Mobile Computing Division
19310 Pruneridge Ave.
Cupertino, CA 95014, U.S.A.
Edition 1 March 1998
5
1. Introducing the OmniBook
• Identifying the Parts of the OmniBook.
• Learning About Windows.
• Safety Information.
• Working in Comfort.
Keep in mind the following features as you learn about your OmniBook.
• The OmniBook’s modular design provides maximum expandability without
compromising portability.
• The high-performance Pentium® CPU with MMX™ technology and enhanced
IDE hard drive provide you with the processing power needed to handle complex
graphics and large sound files.
• Two PC Card slots give you the ability to use standard PC Cards, such as a LAN
adapter and memory cards.
• The floppy disk drive in the plug-in module bay can be replaced with a CD-ROM
drive, a Zip drive, or a secondary battery.
• You can use the floppy disk drive outside the module bay by connecting it to the
parallel port using the optional HP F1380A external floppy disk drive cable.
• Battery operating time can be doubled when you carry an additional primary
battery to be installed when the first runs down, or when you install a secondary
battery in the plug-in module bay.
6
Identifying the Parts of the OmniBook
OmniBook–Front View
1. Power status light.
2. Built-in microphone.
3. Status panel.
4. Built-in speakers.
5. Touch pad (pointing device).
6. Click buttons.
7. Latch to open the OmniBook.
8. Main battery.
9. Plug-in module bay.
Can contain floppy disk drive, CD-ROM drive, Zip drive, or secondary battery.
10. Blue power button.
Turns the OmniBook on and off.
7
OmniBook–Side View
11. PC Card and CardBus slots (upper and lower).
Accepts two Type-II cards or one Type-III card.
12. PC Card eject buttons (upper and lower PC Card slots).
Press once to pop out the button, and press again to eject the card.
13. Audio jacks (left to right): audio line-in, external microphone, audio line-out.
14. AC adapter jack.
15. Kensington lock slot (security connector).
16. Hard disk drive.
OmniBook–Rear View
17. Infrared port.
Use this port for wireless data transmission between the OmniBook and another
computer or a printer with an infrared port. You must install infrared drivers. See
the OmniBook Reference Guide for instructions.
18. Universal serial bus port (USB).
19. Serial port (COM1).
Use this port for a serial mouse, a modem, a serial printer, or other serial device.
20. Parallel port (LPT1).
Use this port for a parallel printer or other parallel device.
21. System-off button (to shut down the OmniBook).
22. External monitor port (VGA).
8
23. Docking port (for a port replicator or other docking product).
24. PS/2 keyboard or PS/2 mouse port (supports Y-adapter).
Learning About Windows
This OmniBook User’s Handbook does not discuss the Windows operating system.
Rather, it introduces the OmniBook and shows you how to operate it. For information
about Windows, see the following sources:
• The Windows online Help. Click Start, then Help.
• The Microsoft Windows manual shipped with your OmniBook.
• Many bookstores have books about Windows for people with different levels of
experience.
Safety Information
AC Adapter Safety
• Use only the ac adapter shipped with the OmniBook (HP part number F1454A).
Using any other ac adapter could damage the OmniBook and may void your
warranty. Refer to the warranty statement for your product.
Battery Safety
• To avoid risk of fire, burns, or damage to your battery, do not allow a metal
object to touch across the battery contacts.
• Use only the battery designated for use with your model of the HP OmniBook.
• Do not disassemble. There are no serviceable parts inside.
• Do not dispose of the battery in fire or water.
• Handle a damaged or leaking battery with extreme care. If you come in contact
with the electrolyte, wash the exposed area with soap and water. If it contacts
the eye, flush the eye with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention.
• Do not expose the battery to high storage temperatures—above 60 °C (140 °F).
• When discarding a battery, contact your local waste disposal provider regarding
local restrictions on the disposal or recycling of batteries.
• To obtain a replacement battery, contact your local dealer or HP sales office.
• The battery cannot charge if the ambient temperature exceeds 45 °C (113 °F).
LED Safety
The infrared port located on the rear panel of the OmniBook is classified as a
Class 1 LED (light-emitting diode) device according to International Standard
IEC 825-1 (EN60825-1). This device is not considered harmful, but the following
precautions are recommended:
• If the unit requires service, contact an authorized HP service center—see the
OmniBook Support and Service booklet.
9
• Do not attempt to make any adjustment of the unit.
• Avoid direct eye exposure to the infrared LED beam. Be aware that the beam is
invisible light and cannot be seen.
• Do not attempt to view the infrared LED beam with any type of optical device.
Laser Safety
The CD-ROM drive used with the OmniBook is certified as a Class 1 laser device
according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Radiation
Performance Standard and International Standards IEC 825 / IEC 825-1 (EN60825 /
EN60825-1). This device is not considered harmful, but the following precautions are
recommended:
• Ensure proper use by reading and following the instructions carefully.
• If the unit requires service, contact an authorized HP service center—see the
OmniBook Support and Service booklet.
• Do not attempt to make any adjustment of the unit.
• Avoid direct exposure to the laser beam—do not open the unit.
Working in Comfort
Warning
Improper use of keyboards and other input devices has been associated with
ergonomic injury. For information about reducing your risk, see Working in
Comfort shipped with your OmniBook, or visit our ergonomics website,
http://www.hp.com/ergo.
10
2. Operating the OmniBook
• Powering the OmniBook.
• Starting and Stopping the OmniBook.
• Using the Touch Pad.
• Using the OmniBook Display.
• Adjusting the Sound System.
• Using the OmniBook Keyboard.
• Checking the Status of the OmniBook.
• Protecting the OmniBook.
Powering the OmniBook
To connect ac power
There are two ways to power the OmniBook: by ac adapter and by battery.
Caution
Use only the HP ac adapter intended for this product, model F1454A. Using
any other ac adapter could damage the OmniBook and may void your
warranty. Refer to the warranty statement for your product.
1. Connect the power cord to the ac adapter, then plug the cord into an ac outlet.
The light on the ac adapter shines when the adapter is powered.
2. Connect the ac adapter to the OmniBook’s left side, as shown.
3. Press the blue power button to turn on the OmniBook.
When the OmniBook is plugged into ac power and a battery is installed, it
11
automatically recharges the battery. To check the status of the battery, see
“Checking the Status of the OmniBook.”
Starting and Stopping the OmniBook
• To start and stop the OmniBook
• To reset the OmniBook.
• To transport the OmniBook.
To start and stop the OmniBook
You can easily start and stop your OmniBook using the blue power button.
However, you may want to take advantage of the power modes, which provide
alternative methods for stopping your OmniBook—depending on power
considerations, types of active connections, or start-up time.
The OmniBook enters When you To exit this mode
Standby mode
Saves minimal power.
Turns off only the display.
Restarts quickly.
Restores previous session.
Maintains network connections.
Suspend mode
Saves significant power.
Turns off the display.
Saves current session to RAM.
Restarts quickly.
Restores previous session.
May restore network connections.*
Hibernate mode
Saves maximum power.
Saves current session to disk, then
shuts down.
Restores previous session.
May restore network connections.*
Off mode
Saves maximum power.
Turns off without saving current
session.
Unsaved data will be lost.
At startup, resets everything, starts a
new session, and restores network
connections.
Press Fn+S
–or–
allow time-out.
Press blue power button
–or–
close the lid
–or–
select Start, Suspend**
–or–
allow time-out.
Press Fn+F12
–or–
allow time-out.
Select Start, Shut Down
–or–
Press and hold the blue
power button until the
display shuts down.
Press any key or
move a pointing
device to display your
current session
("Instant-On").
Press the blue power
button to display your
current session
("Instant-On").
Press the blue power
button to restart and
restore your previous
session.
Press the blue power
button to restart with a
new session.
12
* Preserving network connections. A plug-and play operating system, such as
Windows 95, can restore network connections when you turn on the OmniBook.
For Windows NT 4.0 or a different operating system, you may have to reset the
OmniBook or restart the operating system to restore them.
** Windows 95 only.
Hint
Time-out settings. In order to save power or, conversely, to increase speed, you
can change the time-out settings. Time-out settings specify when to shut down
various components after periods of inactivity. There are separate time-out settings
for each power mode.
To reset the OmniBook
If Windows or the OmniBook stops responding, you can reset the OmniBook and
restart Windows.
1. If possible, shut down Windows.
2. Insert a pen or a straightened paper clip into the system-off button.
–or, if this fails–
Press and hold the blue power button until the display shuts down.
3. After the computer shuts down, press the blue power button to turn it back on.
To transport the OmniBook
1. Save your work.
2. From the Start menu, click Shut Down.
3. Disconnect all external devices.
4. Close the lid.
Using the Touch Pad
• To use the touch pad.
• To configure the touch pad.
To use the touch pad
The touch pad, a touch-sensitive pointing device that controls the motion and speed
of the pointer on the screen, is built into your OmniBook.
13
1. Move a thumb or finger across the touch pad in the direction you want the
pointer to move.
2. Use the click buttons, which function like the left and right buttons on a mouse,
to make your selection. You can also tap on the touch pad instead of clicking a
button.
• To open an application, move the pointer over the icon, then press the left
button twice rapidly.
• To make menu selections, move the pointer to the item and press the left
button once.
• To open the shortcut menu for an item, move the pointer over the item and
click the right button.
• To drag an item, move the pointer over the item. Press and hold the left
button while you move the pointer to the new location. Release the button.
To configure the touch pad
To customize the operation of the touch pad (and an external PS/2 or serial mouse,
if installed), use the Windows Control Panel Mouse icon to access Mouse Properties.
Select the tab corresponding to the item you wish to configure. Among the items that
can be changed are
• Button configuration for right- or left-handed operation.
• Double-click speed, pointer speed, and pointer tail.
• Touch threshold. Click Help for more information on the use of the touch pad.
Note
The touch pad’s enhanced features are not available when an external mouse is
installed.
Using the OmniBook Display
• To adjust the display.
• To extend the life of the display.
To adjust the display
The OmniBook uses special key combinations, called hot keys, to control brightness
and contrast.
14
Brightness
• Press Fn+F1 to decrease the brightness.
• Press Fn+F2 to increase the brightness.
Contrast (for DSTN displays only)
• Press Fn+F3 to decrease the contrast.
• Press Fn+F4 to increase the contrast.
Hint
Brightness affects battery life. To maximize your battery operating time, set the
brightness to the lowest comfortable setting, so that the internal light uses less
power.
To extend the life of the display
Observe the following guidelines to extend the life of the backlight in the OmniBook
display.
• Set the brightness to the lowest comfortable setting (Fn+F1).
• When working at your desk, connect an external monitor and turn off the internal
display (Fn+F5).
• Avoid using a screen saver or other software that prevents the OmniBook from
changing to Suspend or Standby mode after a time-out period.
• Do not disable Suspend and Standby time-outs.
• If you are using ac power and have no external monitor attached, change to
suspend or standby when not in use.
Adjusting the Sound System
• To adjust the volume manually.
• To adjust the volume in Windows.
The OmniBook supports Sound Blaster Pro-compatible sound and the Microsoft
Windows Sound System.
To adjust the volume manually
• To increase the volume, press Fn+UP-ARROW.
• To decrease the volume, press Fn+DOWN-ARROW.
• To temporarily silence the speaker without changing the volume setting, press
Fn+F7. Press again to restore the speaker output.
To adjust the volume in Windows
1. Click the speaker symbol in the taskbar.
15
2. Drag the volume control bar up or down to adjust the volume.
3. To temporarily silence the speaker without changing the volume setting, click
Mute.
Using the OmniBook Keyboard
• To use the Fn hot keys.
• To use the Windows keys.
• To use the embedded keypad.
• To use the Alt Gr key.
Warning
Improper use of keyboards and other input devices has been associated with
ergonomic injury. For information about reducing your risk, see Working in
Comfort shipped with your OmniBook, or visit our ergonomics website,
http://www.hp.com/ergo.
To use the Fn hot keys
The combination of the Fn key plus another key creates a hot key—a
shortcut key sequence—for various system controls. Press and hold
Fn while pressing the desired key
Hot key Does this
Fn + F1
Fn + F2
Fn + F3
Fn + F4
Fn + F5
Fn + F6
(hold)
Fn + F7
Fn + F8
Fn + F9
Fn + F10
Fn + F12
Fn + R
Decreases the display’s brightness.
Increases the display’s brightness.
Decreases the display’s contrast (DSTN displays only).
Increases the display’s contrast (DSTN displays only).
Switches among the built-in display, an external display, and
simultaneous displays.
For use with two batteries: The battery indicator in the status panel
briefly displays the individual battery status for each battery you have
installed in the OmniBook.
Toggles the sound on and off (mutes sound).
Toggles the embedded keypad on and off. Does not affect an
external keyboard. If Num Lock is on, then the numeric functions are
active; otherwise, cursor control is active.
Toggles Num Lock (numeric functions for the keypad) on and off.
Toggles Scroll Lock on and off.
Enters Hibernate mode.
Enters Suspend mode.
16
Fn + S
Enters Standby mode.
Fn + UP-
Increases sound volume.
ARROW
Fn +
Decreases sound volume.
DOWNARROW
To use the Windows keys
Windows keys are located on the keyboard to the left and right of the spacebar.
Brings up the Windows Start menu. There are two of these, one to each
side of the spacebar.
Brings up the shortcut menu for the current application. This is the same
menu that appears when you click the right mouse button while pointing
at the application.
To use the embedded keypad
When the embedded keypad on the OmniBook's built-in keyboard is active, two
options are possible.
Num Lock on: Keys change to the numeric or arithmetic designations printed on the
slanted faces of the keys.
Num Lock off: Keys change to cursor control keys.
1. Press the Fn+F9 to turn Num Lock on or off.
2. Press Fn+F8 to turn on the embedded keypad.
–or–
To temporarily turn on the embedded keypad, hold Fn while typing a key.
Status panel icons show the status of the embedded keypad and Num Lock.
Hint
Typing numbers. Consider leaving Num Lock on all the time. Then, when you want
to use the embedded keypad on your built-in keyboard, turn it on (by pressing
Fn+F8), or press Fn with each keypad key.
To use the Alt Gr key
Non-US keyboards have an Alt Gr key to the right of the spacebar. This is a shift key
providing access to certain keyboard characters.
• For a character in the lower-right corner of a key, press and hold ALT GR to type
the character.
• For a character in the upper-right corner of a key, press and hold SHIFT and
ALT GR to type the character.
17
SHIFT
Unshifted
¬
‘
ALT GR
18
Checking the Status of the OmniBook
• To interpret the status lights.
• To interpret the status panel indicators.
To interpret status lights
The OmniBook has a power status light on the hinge, which is visible even when the
OmniBook is closed.
Steady green light. OmniBook is on.
Blinking green light. OmniBook is in Standby or Suspend mode.
No light. OmniBook is in Off or Hibernate mode.
The battery itself has four lights that indicate charge status when you press the
square button on the battery. Each light represents 25% charge.
To interpret the status panel indicators
The OmniBook status panel, located above the keyboard, contains indicators that
show the current keyboard status, drive activity, and power status of the OmniBook.
Power status indicators
AC power. The ac adapter is connected.
Battery status. Shows the approximate charge level of the
battery relative to a full charge. Each bar represents a 10%
charge (displayed from right to left).
Battery presence. The upper and lower triangles indicate
19
the presence of main (upper) and second (lower) batteries. A
triangle blinks slowly when that battery is charging.
Battery low. No battery bars showing; triangles indicate
presence of battery. The OmniBook also beeps.
Defective battery. No battery bars showing and no triangles
indicating presence of battery; no charging even though ac
power is present.
Overheated battery. The battery is too hot to charge. Not
necessarily a defective battery.
Drive status indicators
Hard disk drive, CD-ROM drive, or any plug-in module
drive The OmniBook is accessing one of these internal
drives.
Floppy disk drive. The OmniBook is accessing the floppy
disk drive.
PC Card. There is activity between the PC Card and the
computer.
Keyboard status indicators
Caps Lock. Caps Lock is active.
Num Lock. Num Lock is active.
Keypad Lock. The built-in embedded keypad is active
(Fn+F8). Num Lock must also be on for the numeric keys.
Otherwise, the cursor keys are active. See “To use the
embedded keypad.”
Scroll Lock. Scroll Lock is active (Fn+NmLk).
Protecting the OmniBook
• To set or change a password.
• To delete a password.
• To attach a security cable.
• To install McAfee VirusScan.
To set or change a password
The OmniBook provides two levels of password protection—user password
protection and administrator password protection. You cannot set the user password
until you set an administrator password.
If password protection is set, then you will be prompted to enter a password
whenever you reset or turn on the computer (depending on your setting).
20
To set, change, or delete password protection for this OmniBook, use the BIOS
Setup utility. This program is described fully in the Reference Guide that came with
your OmniBook.
1. From the Start menu, shut down, then restart the OmniBook.
2. When you see the HP logo, press F2 to enter the BIOS Setup utility.
• Pointing devices do not work in the BIOS Setup utility.
• Active keys are described along the bottom of the window.
• Help information for the highlighted item appears on the right side of the
window.
3. Select the Security menu.
4. Select Set Administrator Password, then press ENTER.
5. Type the new password, then press ENTER. The password can contain up to
eight alphanumeric characters, and it is not case-sensitive.
6. Type the password again to confirm, press ENTER, then press Continue.
7. Under Password Required To, choose when the password will be required.
• Select Boot to require password when booting the OmniBook.
• Select Resume to require password when resuming from Suspend or
Hibernate mode.
• Select Undock to require password when undocking the OmniBook.
8. If desired, repeat this procedure for Set User Password.
9. Press F10 to Save and Exit the BIOS Setup utility.
Note
If an administrator password is set, but Password Required to Boot is disabled, then
the administrator password is still required to get into the BIOS Setup utility.
Caution
Be sure you record your password in a safe place. To restore operation if you
forget your password, have your proof-of-purchase available and call HewlettPackard at the number in the Support and Service booklet.
To delete a password
If you delete an administrator password, the OmniBook automatically deletes the
user password as well.
1. From the Start menu, shut down, then restart the OmniBook.
2. When you see the HP logo, press F2 to enter the BIOS Setup utility.
• Pointing devices do not work in the BIOS Setup utility.
• Active keys are described along the bottom of the window.
• Help information for the highlighted item appears on the right side of the
window.
21
3. Select the Security menu.
4. Select Set Administrator Password, then press ENTER.
5. Type the current password, then press ENTER.
6. Press ENTER at the Enter New Password prompt.
7. Press ENTER at the Confirm New Password prompt.
8. Press Continue to save changes.
9. Press F10 to Save and Exit the BIOS Setup utility.
To attach a security cable
Your OmniBook has a built-in connector that allows you to secure the OmniBook
with a cable. The Kensington MicroSaver lock system works with this connector and
is available at many computer stores.
1. Wrap the cable around a stationary object, such as a table leg.
2. Loop the cable to create a slip knot around the stationary object—make sure it
can’t slip off.
3. Insert the lock into the OmniBook security connector and release the key. Store
the key in a safe place away from the OmniBook.
To install McAfee VirusScan
The OmniBook comes equipped with McAfee VirusScan, which currently detects
over 13,500 viruses. As an HP OmniBook owner, you are entitled to 90 days free
support from McAfee and one free upgrade to VirusScan. For details, click Start,
Programs, McAfee VirusScan, Readme.
Before you can use VirusScan, you need to install it.
1. From the Start menu, click Programs, McAfee VirusScan, Setup.
2. Follow the instructions as they appear on the screen.
Once installed, you can get detailed online instructions under VirusScan Help.
22
3. Managing Battery Power
• Recharging and Replacing Batteries.
• Conserving Battery Power.
The primary portable source of power for the OmniBook is a replaceable,
rechargeable battery. Your OmniBook accepts a main battery (in the battery bay)
and, if desired, a secondary battery (in the plug-in module bay). Lithium-ion batteries
provide the same or better battery life at a reduced weight.
In addition to the replaceable batteries, there is a permanent, internal backup
battery, which recharges whenever the OmniBook is on or is connected to ac. It
maintains certain internal settings, such as the clock.
The OmniBook provides several safeguards so that you won’t be surprised by a
dead-battery condition.
• The status panel shows the remaining battery charge.
• Built-in warnings alert you to a low battery condition.
• The OmniBook automatically turns off when the battery charge gets too low—
your session continues when you start recharging the battery or insert a fresh
battery.
• Data previously saved on any of the drives is not affected by a low battery.
However, unsaved data could be affected if the battery runs down completely
while writing data to the drive.
Recharging and Replacing Batteries
• To respond to a low-battery warning.
• To recharge the battery.
• To replace the battery.
To respond to a low-battery warning
When battery power is critically low, you are alerted by one or more of the following:
• The battery indicator in the status panel appears empty.
• The computer emits a warning beep. This reminds you to save your work.
• If the OmniBook has been off, you will not be able to turn it on.
The OmniBook automatically hibernates (turns off) to preserve your current session
and data. (If Hibernate is disabled in the BIOS Setup utility, then unsaved data are
not protected.)
You won’t be able to turn the computer on again until you restore power by one of
the following actions:
• Plug in the ac adapter. See “To recharge the battery.”
–or–
23
• Replace the main battery with one that is charged. See "To replace the battery."
–or–
• Install a charged secondary battery in the plug-in module bay. See "To replace a
plug-in module."
To recharge the battery
1. Connect the power cord to the ac adapter, then plug the cord into an ac outlet.
The light on the ac adapter shines when the adapter is powered.
2. Connect the ac adapter to the ac adapter jack on the left side of the OmniBook.
The ac adapter is normally warm to the touch whenever it’s plugged into an ac
outlet. The OmniBook is normally warm while it’s charging. Don’t charge it in a
briefcase or other small space.
Charging time. Charging a depleted battery takes about 1.5 hours when the
computer is off or suspended, or about 2.2 hours when the computer is in use.
Battery life. When the computer is in use, typical battery life can range from 2 to 3
hours, depending on your level of use and your power management settings. See
“To change a time-out setting.”
Optimum charging. To get the longest battery operating time, continue charging
until the battery is fully charged. Because of rounding, a battery indicator can show a
full battery before it’s fully charged. The battery triangle stops blinking only when the
battery is actually full.
You can continue working while the battery is charging.
To replace the battery
You may never need to replace the rechargeable battery in ordinary use. Typically,
you simply connect the ac adapter to the OmniBook and recharge the battery while
you work. However, you can replace a low battery with another that is more fully
charged.
Caution
If you have any unsaved data, it (and your current work session) will be lost
when you remove the battery, unless the computer is connected to ac power, a
secondary battery is installed, or the OmniBook is in Hibernate mode.
1. Important. Save your work.
2. Plug in the ac adapter.
–or–
From the Start menu, shut down the OmniBook.
3. Slide the safety latch for the battery bay into its recess.
4. Slide and hold the release latch, then pull out the battery, as shown.
24
5. Slide the charged battery into the OmniBook until it clicks into place.
6. Close the safety latch.
Caution
Do not mutilate, puncture, or dispose of the battery in fire. The battery can
burst or explode, releasing hazardous chemicals. A rechargeable battery pack
must be recycled or disposed of properly. See “Battery Safety.”
Conserving Battery Power
• To optimize battery operating time.
• To get the most from your batteries.
• To change a time-out setting.
To optimize battery operating time
The OmniBook uses Advanced Power Management (APM) to conserve battery
power. Here are several ways to optimize your battery operating time.
• Plug in the ac adapter, especially while using the CD-ROM drive, the floppy disk
drive, or any external connections such as a PC Card.
• Put the OmniBook in Suspend mode whenever you are not using it for a short
while. Press the blue power button (or click Start, Suspend).
• Put the OmniBook in Hibernate mode whenever you want to save your current
session, but will not be using the computer for several hours or more (Fn+F12).
• Turn the OmniBook off whenever you will not be using it for several hours or
more. Click Start menu, Shut Down.
• Turn down the brightness of the display to the lowest comfortable level (Fn+F1).
This reduces the backlight power and extends the life of your OmniBook display.
• Set the automatic time-out settings to emphasize saving power. See “To change
a time-out setting.”
• If you have an I/O PC Card—that is, a PC Card having an external connection,
such as a modem or network card—remove it when you’re not using it. Some I/O
cards use significant power, even while they’re inactive.
25
• If you work with an application that uses the serial port or an I/O PC Card, exit
the application when you’re done using it.
• Install a secondary battery in the plug-in module bay to double the operating
time.
To get the most from your batteries
The following are some further suggestions for the best management of your
OmniBook batteries.
• Do not leave batteries unused for long periods of time. If you have more than
one, rotate them.
• If you normally use ac power, make a practice of at least once a week using the
battery as your power source.
• Unplug the ac adapter when the computer is not in use.
• To preserve the life of a battery, be sure to charge the battery regularly.
• For long-term storage, the battery must be charged at 20–50% to minimize
capacity loss by self-discharge and to avoid deterioration of battery
performance.
To change a time-out setting
The BIOS Setup utility includes settings for automatic time-outs after specified
periods of inactivity. (This program is described fully in the Reference Guide that
came with your OmniBook.) When enabled, these settings save power. There are
four different time-outs, inducing different levels of power shut-down and
conservation.
1. From the Start menu, shut down, then restart the OmniBook.
2. When you see the HP logo, press F2 to enter the BIOS Setup utility.
• Pointing devices do not work in the BIOS Setup utility.
• Active keys are described along the bottom of the window.
• Help information for the highlighted item appears on the right side of the
window.
3. Select the Power menu.
4. Select Power Management Mode, then select an option other than Disabled:
• Max. Power Savings: The time-out settings are predefined for best power
savings (using relatively short time-outs).
• Max. Performance: The time-out settings are set for fast performance with
some power conservation (using relatively long time-outs).
• Customized: You determine each setting for Smart CPU Mode, Standby
Time-out, Suspend Time-out, Hibernate Time-out, and Hard Disk Time-out.
For definitions of these power modes, see “To start and stop the OmniBook.”
5. Optional. Choose a setting for Time-out on AC. If you want the time-outs to
occur even when the OmniBook is connected to ac power, choose Enabled. To
prevent time-outs while the OmniBook is plugged in, choose Disabled.
26
6. Press F10 to save and exit the BIOS Setup utility.
27
4. Making Connections
• Using Plug-In Modules and Storage Media.
• Connecting External Devices.
• Using PC Cards.
• Using Docking Products.
Using Plug-In Modules and Storage Media
• To replace a plug-in module.
• To install the floppy disk drive externally
• To insert or eject a floppy disk.
• To insert or remove a CD.
• To insert or eject a Zip disk.
The OmniBook Plug-In Modules User’s Guide describes OmniBook accessory
modules and shows you how to install and use them. The OmniBook’s module bay
accommodates the following:
• Floppy disk drive.
• CD-ROM drive.
• Zip drive.
• Secondary battery.
To replace a plug-in module
28
Caution
If you are inserting or removing a CD-ROM drive, floppy disk drive, or Zip
drive, shut down the OmniBook.
1. From the Start menu, shut down the OmniBook. (This is not necessary if you are
removing a battery from the plug-in module bay and inserting another battery).
2. Slide the safety latch for the module bay into its recess.
3. Slide and hold the release latch, then pull out the module, as shown.
4. Slide the new plug-in module into the OmniBook until it clicks into place.
5. Close the safety latch.
To install the floppy disk drive externally
When using the plug-in floppy disk drive externally, the plug-in module bay can be
used by another plug-in module—such as a CD-ROM drive, a Zip drive, or a
secondary battery.
• Connect the external floppy disk drive cable (optional accessory, HP F1380A) to
the OmniBook parallel port.
Note
Only one floppy disk drive is supported on the OmniBook. You cannot use both an
external floppy disk drive and a plug-in floppy disk drive.
29
To insert or eject a floppy disk
When the OmniBook is reading or writing data to the floppy drive,
the floppy disk indicator appears on the status panel.
Caution
Do not insert or remove a floppy disk while the OmniBook is actively reading
or writing data. Wait until the floppy drive is done. Otherwise, you could lose
data or the OmniBook could stop responding.
• Hold the disk with its face up, then slide it into the floppy drive slot (on the right
side of the OmniBook) until it clicks into place.
• To remove the floppy disk, press the eject button next to the slot.
To insert or remove a CD
When the OmniBook is reading data from the CD-ROM drive, the
CD-ROM/hard disk drives indicator appears on the status panel.
Caution
Do not insert or remove a CD while the OmniBook is actively reading data.
Wait until the CD-ROM drive is done. Otherwise, the OmniBook could stop
responding.
1. Press the button on the face of the CD-ROM drive.
2. If you are using this drive for the first time, be sure to remove the cardboard
packing insert.
3. Place the CD into the drive (label facing up) and gently press down to seat the
CD on the spindle.
–or–
Remove the CD.
4. Slide the CD-ROM tray back into the module to close it.
If the CD-ROM drive has no power, you can still open the drawer of the CD-ROM
drive by inserting a straightened paper clip into the recessed hole as shown above.
30
To insert or eject a Zip disk
Caution
Do not insert or remove a Zip disk while the OmniBook is actively reading or
writing data. Wait until the Zip drive is done. Otherwise, you could lose data or
the OmniBook could stop responding.
• Always turn on power to the OmniBook before inserting a Zip disk.
• To insert the Zip disk, hold the disk with its face up, then gently insert it into the
Zip drive.
• To remove the Zip disk, gently press the eject button on the front of the Zip
drive. Do not use force. It takes a few seconds to eject the disk and the green
busy light blinks during this process.
• The Zip drive automatically ejects the disk when you shut down your OmniBook.
• Store all Zip disks in the protective case when not in use.
If the Zip drive has no power and you need to remove a disk from it, carefully push a
straightened paper clip into the emergency eject hole located on the eject button.
Caution
Use the manual disk eject procedure only when OmniBook power is off. Do
not try to forcibly remove a Zip disk from the drive. If the disk does not eject
immediately, repeat the manual disk eject procedure.
Connecting External Devices
• To connect an external monitor.
• To connect a printer or other parallel device.
• To connect a serial mouse or other serial device.
• To connect an external PS/2 keyboard or a PS/2 mouse.
• To connect a universal serial bus device.
• To connect an audio source, a microphone, or headphones.
• To make an infrared connection.
To connect an external monitor
1. From the Start menu, shut down the OmniBook.
2. Connect the monitor cable from the monitor to the VGA port on the rear of the
OmniBook.
3. Connect the monitor to a power source and turn it on.
4. Press the blue power button to turn on the OmniBook.
5. If the external monitor has a different resolution from the internal display, adjust
the display properties (Start, Settings, Control Panel, Display, Settings).
31
Hint
Switching Displays. Use Fn+F5 to switch among the built-in display, an external
display, and simultaneous displays.
To connect a printer or other parallel device
The most common parallel device is a printer.
• Connect the parallel printer cable or other parallel cable to the parallel port.
To connect a serial mouse or other serial device
• Connect the serial cable to the serial port.
32
If you are connecting a serial mouse, you need to select Standard Serial Mouse in
Control Panel, Mouse, General, Change.
To connect an external PS/2 keyboard or a PS/2 mouse
1. From the Start menu, shut down the OmniBook.
2. Plug the mouse or keyboard PS/2 cable into the PS/2 port on the OmniBook.
• To connect both a mouse and a keyboard, use the HP F1469A PS/2 Y-
adapter.
• To connect a device that has a PC-type jack, first connect its cable to an
adapter cable with a PS/2 jack.
3. Press the blue power button to turn on the OmniBook.
Hint
To use hot keys from an external keyboard, substitute CTRL+ALT for the OmniBook
Fn key. For example, to access Fn+F2, press CTRL+ALT+F2. If this does not work,
check that the setting for External Fn Key is enabled in the System Devices menu of
the BIOS Setup utility.
To connect a USB device
33
Note
Windows NT 4.0 does not support universal serial bus (USB) devices.
Universal serial bus (USB) provides a bidirectional serial interface for adding
peripheral devices, such as game controllers, scanners, and mice.
• Plug the USB cable into the USB port on the OmniBook. The device is
automatically recognized.
Note
If you have problems making this connection, contact the vendor of the peripheral
device, as well as Hewlett-Packard, for the latest versions of the USB drivers. The
USB technology is dynamic and continues to develop.
To connect an audio source, a microphone, or headphones
Your OmniBook has a built-in microphone above the keyboard and two stereo
speakers. The audio jacks allow you to plug in external audio devices:
• Plug a stereo input source (such as a CD player) into the input (left) jack.
• Plug the microphone into the microphone (middle) jack. The built-in microphone
turns off.
• Plug devices such as headphones or external (amplified) speakers into the
output (right) jack. The built-in speakers turn off.
Caution
Do not use mono audio plugs, which can damage the computer.
To make an infrared connection
Note
Windows NT 4.0 does not support infrared communication.
34
The OmniBook provides an infrared port on the rear panel. The infrared port
provides wireless, serial communication between the OmniBook and other infrared
devices such as printers or other OmniBooks.
By default, the infrared port is not enabled. You must install the appropriate infrared
driver and enable it in the BIOS Setup utility. Refer to the Reference Guide and the
driver's Readme file for complete information about infrared connections.
• Line up the OmniBook’s infrared port and the other infrared port in as straight a
line as possible. The two ports should be no more than 1 meter apart, with no
obstructions in between.
• Check the status of communications (Start, Settings, Control Panel, Infrared
Monitor).
Using PC Cards
• To insert a PC Card.
• To remove a PC Card.
To insert a PC Card
Note
Windows NT 4.0 does not support zoomed video.
The OmniBook PC Card slots are available for storing data and expanding the
communication capabilities of the OmniBook. The OmniBook supports standard
Type I, II, and III PC Cards (PCMCIA and CardBus). You can use two Type I or II
cards or one Type III card. The lower card slot (slot 0) supports Zoomed Video,
which allows a zoomed video card to show high-quality multimedia presentations.
For information about compatible cards, visit our website at
http://www.hp.com/omnibook. Or contact Hewlett-Packard as described in the
Support and Service booklet.
Note
Do not install Card Services or Socket Services software if it comes with your
PC Card.
Windows 95 already includes Card Services and Socket Services, which
automatically detect and set up PC Cards you install in the upper and lower card
slots. Different versions of this software will disrupt this support.
Windows NT 4.0 requires that you install Phoenix Card Executive drivers. See the
OmniBook Reference Guide for instructions.
35
The OmniBook automatically detects and sets up a card when you insert it in a card
slot. See the card’s instructions for additional information.
Caution
Never insert or remove a plug-in card while an OmniBook PC Card drive is
actively reading or writing data. Wait until the PC Card drive is done.
Otherwise, you could lose data or the OmniBook could stop responding.
1. Hold the card with its face up with its connector holes toward the card slot.
2. Slide the card into a PC Card slot until it won’t go any further. A double beep
signals that the card has been recognized and is successfully configured by your
computer.
To remove a PC Card
Caution
Never remove an I/O card while an application is open that’s set up to use that
card. If you remove the card, the application (or the OmniBook) might behave
unpredictably or stop responding until you reset the OmniBook. Exit the
application first.
Never insert or remove a plug-in card while the PC Card drive is actively
reading or writing data. Check the PC Card indicator in the status panel and
wait until the PC Card drive is done. Otherwise, you could lose data or the
OmniBook could stop responding.
1. Stop the PC Card by clicking the PC Card indicator in the taskbar, then clicking
Stop.
This protects your data and avoids unexpected problems. You can restart the
card by removing it, then inserting again.
2. Press the ejector button once to pop the button out.
3. Press the ejector button again to pop the card out.
36
Using Docking Products
• To install a docking tray.
• To dock the OmniBook.
• To undock the OmniBook.
The OmniBook docking products provide external connections for the OmniBook
that you can leave in place whenever you remove the OmniBook from your desk.
Instead of disconnecting and reconnecting peripheral devices, you simply undock
and dock the OmniBook.
Refer to the User’s Guide for OmniBook docking products for more information.
To install a docking tray
Your dock requires a tray that accommodates your specific OmniBook model. You
must ensure that this tray is installed prior to docking the OmniBook.
1. Select the tray labeled with the letter C.
2. Slide the rear of the tray into the dock as shown on the label on the dock.
3. Push down firmly on both sides of the tray until it snaps into place.
To remove a tray from the dock, pull the latch (near the center front of the dock)
towards you until the tray pops free.
To dock the OmniBook
37
1. From the Start menu, shut down the OmniBook.
If you have a plug-and-play operating system, such as Windows 95, you do not
need to turn off the OmniBook before inserting it into the dock.
Caution
Use only the HP F1454A ac adapter (shipped with OmniBooks compatible with
this dock) . Using any other ac adapter could damage the OmniBook and may
void your warranty. Refer to the warranty statement for your product.
2. Plug the power cord into the ac adapter, then into an ac outlet. Plug the ac
adapter into the dock.
3. On the rear of the OmniBook, slide the docking door to the left.
4. Place the OmniBook on the dock platform, with the rear of the computer facing
the dock's docking connector.
5. Position your fingers on the platform grips as shown below. Use your thumbs to
push the computer into the dock until the computer slides into place.
38
To undock the OmniBook
1. From the Start menu, shut down the OmniBook.
If you have a plug-and-play operating system, such as Windows 95, you do not
need to turn off the OmniBook before removing it from the dock.
2. Press the undock button on the front of the dock and wait for the undock light to
turn green.
3. Position your thumb as shown and pull the release lever forward.
4. Remove the OmniBook from the dock.
39
5. Maintenance and Troubleshooting
• Cleaning the Computer.
• Solving Common Problems.
Cleaning the Computer
• To clean the case.
• To clean the display.
To clean the case
Use a soft, lint-free cloth to clean the case. You can use a mild detergent, but do not
use abrasives or solvents, such as thinner, benzene, or isopropyl alcohol.
Apply the cleaner to the cloth, and not directly onto the computer.
To clean the display
Use a soft, lint-free cloth to clean the display glass. You can use a glass cleaner, but
avoid ammonia-based cleaners.
Apply the cleaner to the cloth, and not directly onto the display.
Solving Common Problems
• Accessory Problems.
• Audio Problems.
• Display Problems.
• Hard Disk Drive Problems.
• Keyboard and Pointing Device Problems.
• Infrared Problems.
• Memory Problems.
• PC Card (PCMCIA) Problems.
• Performance Problems.
• Power and Battery Problems.
• Printing Problems.
• Serial and Parallel Problems.
• Startup Problems.
If you have troubleshooting questions that this handbook doesn’t answer, you can
40
• See the printed OmniBook Reference Guide. You can obtain a backup copy of
this guide from the OmniBook website (http://www.hp.com/omnibook).
• Check OmniBook Notes for the most current troubleshooting suggestions (Start,
Programs, OmniBook Library, OmniBook Notes).
• Look at the online Help for Windows and other applications.
• Check with your computer system administrator, if you have one.
• Check your local library or bookstore for other books about Windows, MS-DOS,
and other applications.
• Contact your dealer, or contact Hewlett-Packard. See the OmniBook Support
and Service booklet or open OmniBook Support in the online OmniBook Library.
• Click Start and Help to use the Windows “troubleshooters” provided for several
types of common problems. On the Contents tab, open the Troubleshooting
book, then start the desired troubleshooter.
Accessory Problems
If a port on a dock isn’t working
• Check that ac power is connected.
• Try using the corresponding OmniBook port while undocked.
If you can’t boot from a CD in the CD-ROM drive
• Make sure the CD is a bootable CD, such as the Recovery CD.
• Make sure the CD-ROM drive is seated correctly in the OmniBook—remove and
reinsert.
• If you always want to boot from a CD, check boot order in the BIOS Setup utility.
1. From the Start menu, shut down, then restart the OmniBook.
2. When you see the HP logo, press F2 to enter the BIOS Setup utility.
3. Open the Boot menu. The default boot order is
• Diskette Drive
• Hard Drive
• CD-ROM Drive
4. If CD-ROM Drive is not option 1, use the arrow keys to select CD-ROM
Drive.
5. Press F6 to move up (or F5 to move down) in the list.
6. Press F10 to Save and Exit the BIOS Setup utility.
• Make sure you are using an internal OmniBook CD-ROM drive module. You
cannot boot from an external CD-ROM drive, which you can connect to the
OmniBook via a PC Card SCSI connection.
• Reset the OmniBook.
If a Zip drive isn’t working
41
• Make sure the Zip disk is inserted correctly.
• Reset the OmniBook.
• Make sure the Zip drive module is seated correctly—remove and reinsert.
Audio Problems
If sounds aren’t audible
• Check that the volume is not muted. Press Fn+F7 to toggle muting on and off.
• Press Fn+UP-ARROW to increase the volume.
• Check settings in BIOS Setup.
1. From the Start menu, shut down, then restart the OmniBook.
2. When you see the HP logo, press F2 to enter the BIOS Setup utility.
3. From the System Devices menu, check that Audio is enabled.
If you hear a loud high-pitched whine (feedback) from the speakers
• Press Fn+F7 to stop the noise.
• Try reducing the Master volume (Start, Programs, Accessories, Multimedia,
Volume Control).
If sound doesn’t record
• Check settings in the BIOS Setup utility.
1. From the Start menu, shut down, then restart the OmniBook.
2. When you see the HP logo, press F2 to enter the BIOS Setup utility.
3. From the System Devices menu, check that Audio is enabled.
• Check software controls for recording sound (click Start, Program, Accessories,
Multimedia, Sound Recorder).
Display Problems
If the OmniBook is on, but the screen is blank
• Press the space bar to see if the computer is in Standby mode.
• Press Fn+F1 or Fn+F2 to adjust the display.
• Press Fn+F5 in case the internal display was disabled. (Do this three times to
return to the state you started from.)
• If the OmniBook is cold, allow it to warm up.
If the screen is difficult to read
• Check whether the display resolution is set to its default setting, 1024 × 768
(XGA) or 800 × 600 (SVGA). Check this in Start, Settings, Control Panel,
Display, Settings.
• Check brightness (Fn+F2 to increase brightness).
42
Hard Disk Drive Problems
If the OmniBook’s hard drive doesn’t spin
• Check the power source.
• Remove and reinsert the hard drive. See the OmniBook Reference Guide for
instructions.
If the hard disk makes buzzing or whining noise
• Back up the drive immediately.
• Check for alternate noise sources, such as the fan or a PC Card drive.
If files are corrupted
For Windows 95 and Windows NT 4.0
• Run the McAfee VirusScan program; see "To install McAfee VirusScan."
For Windows 95 Only
• If you’re using Windows 95, you can run the Scandisk surface scan to check the
platter. (This is not available in Windows NT 4.0). From the Start menu, click
Programs, Accessories, System Tools, Scandisk.
• Use the Recovery CD to restore the original files.
Infrared Problems
If you have problems with infrared communications
• Windows NT 4.0 does not support infrared devices.
• Make sure the infrared light path is not blocked.
• Check settings in the BIOS Setup utility.
1. From the Start menu, shut down, then restart the OmniBook.
2. When you see the HP logo, press F2 to enter the BIOS Setup utility.
3. From the System Devices menu, check that Infrared Port is enabled.
4. Press F10 to save and exit the BIOS Setup utility.
• For infrared communications, an infrared driver must be installed and a BIOS
Setup setting must be enabled. For details, refer to the driver’s Readme file
located in \OmniBook\drivers.
• Check that only one application is using the infrared port.
• If you have Standard IR and Fast IR computers communicating with each other,
make sure that they are set to the highest common speed (115200 baud).
• Remove any PC Cards. An infrared IRQ conflict is possible if two PC Cards are
plugged in at the same time.
If an infrared printer doesn’t print
• Make sure the infrared light path is not blocked.
43
• An infrared driver must be installed and the BIOS Setup setting must be
enabled. For details, refer to the driver’s Readme file located in
\OmniBook\drivers.
• In Windows Help, use the Print Troubleshooter.
Keyboard and Pointing Device Problems
If the embedded numeric keypad doesn’t work
• Make sure Num Lock is on (Fn+F9).
• Make sure the embedded Keypad Lock (Fn+F8) is on—or that you press and
hold the Fn key to temporarily access the embedded keypad.
If the pointer is difficult to control
• To customize all pointing devices, use the Mouse icon in Control Panel to go to
Mouse Properties.
• If the touch pad driver has been installed, Mouse Properties includes a tab that
allows you to customize the operation of the touch pad.
• Reset the OmniBook.
If the touch pad doesn’t work
• Make sure that there is not an external mouse connected to the OmniBook.
• If you just disconnected an external mouse, try exiting and restarting Windows to
make the internal touch pad active again.
• Press the blue power button to turn off the OmniBook, then turn it on again
without moving the pointer.
• Reset the OmniBook.
Memory Problems
If a message says you are out of memory
• In Windows Help, use the memory troubleshooter.
• If you are having memory problems running MS-DOS programs, in Windows
Help use the MS-DOS troubleshooter.
PC Card (PCMCIA) Problems
If the OmniBook doesn’t recognize a PC Card
• Remove and reinsert the PC Card.
• If the card requires an IRQ, check that there is one available and that there are
no conflicts. Look in Windows Device Manager.
• Check the OmniBook website for information about supported PC Cards.
• Try the card in another computer.
44
• Windows NT 4.0 requires that you install Phoenix Card Executive drivers. See
the OmniBook Reference Guide for instructions.
Performance Problems
If the OmniBook gets hot
• It is normal for the computer to get warm.
• Make sure the air vents are clear.
• DOS games and other programs that drive CPU usage toward 100% can
contribute to the temperature.
If the OmniBook pauses or runs sluggishly
• This may be normal Windows behavior (background processing can affect
response time).
• Check the BIOS Setup settings.
1. From the Start menu, shut down, then restart the OmniBook.
2. When you see the HP logo, press F2 to enter the BIOS Setup utility.
3. From the Power menu, set the Power Management Mode to Max.
Performance.
4. Press F10 to Save and Exit the BIOS Setup utility.
• Certain background operations (such as virus scans) can affect performance
while they’re running.
• Some file browsers may be unresponsive while they’re processing a graphic
image or waiting for broken network connections to time out.
• Install additional memory if Windows is spending a lot of time swapping to disk.
• Check amount of available free disk space.
Power and Battery Problems
If the OmniBook turns off immediately after it turns on
• Battery power is probably extremely low. Plug in the ac adapter, insert a new
charged battery module, or insert a secondary battery module.
If the OmniBook keeps beeping
• The OmniBook beeps for 15 seconds when the battery is low. Save your work,
quit immediately, and insert a charged battery or plug in the ac adapter.
If the OmniBook has a short operating time
• Try conserving power using any of the suggestions listed under “To optimize
battery operating time.”
• If the operating time has gotten shorter and the battery is more than a year or
two old, you may need to replace the battery.
• Turn down the display brightness (Fn+F1).
45
• Check the Power Management settings in the BIOS Setup utility.
1. From the Start menu, shut down, then restart the OmniBook.
2. When you see the HP logo, press F2 to enter the BIOS Setup utility.
3. From the Power menu, make sure the Power Management Mode is set to
Max. Power Savings.
4. Press F10 to Save and Exit the BIOS Setup utility.
If battery indicator is inaccurate
• After extended use with ac power, the battery indicator may no longer reliably
report the actual charge on the battery. To improve the accuracy of this
indicator, use the following procedure to run 2 to 4 cycles of battery
charging/discharging.
1. Connect the ac adapter and charge the battery to full capacity.
2. Unplug the ac adapter and leave the OmniBook on until the battery is fully
discharged and the system turns off. If you are not using the OmniBook
during this step, you can temporarily customize the time-out settings in the
BIOS Setup utility to speed up the discharging.
If the battery doesn’t charge
• Make sure the ac adapter is plugged into the power source.
• Check that the battery module is fully installed and locked in place.
• Turn off the OmniBook, then check that the battery contacts are clean and that
the ac adapter cables are fully plugged in.
• Move the OmniBook away from any nearby heat source. Unplug the ac adapter
and allow the battery to cool down. An elevated battery temperature prevents
charging.
• If available, try another battery and ac adapter.
If a secondary battery doesn’t charge
• A secondary battery doesn’t charge until the main battery is fully charged.
• Make sure the ac adapter is plugged into the power source.
• Check that a seconary battery module is fully installed and locked in place.
If the OmniBook stops responding
• Press the blue power button and wait a few moments until the icons on the
status panel stabilize. Then press the power button again to turn the OmniBook
back on.
• If nothing happens, insert a paper clip into the system-off button; see "To reset
the OmniBook."
If the OmniBook doesn’t suspend as expected
• If you have a connection to another computer, the OmniBook doesn’t suspend if
the connection is actively in use.
46
• If the OmniBook is performing an operation, it normally waits for the operation to
finish.
• Check the Power Button Mode in the BIOS Setup utility (Power menu). You can
configure the power button to either suspend or shut down the OmniBook.
Printing Problems
Hint
For most printing problems, use the Print Troubleshooter in Windows Help.
If a serial or parallel printer doesn’t print
• Check that you are using a proper cable or cable adapter, and that the printer is
on.
• Check for paper in the printer or other printer errors.
• Make sure the printer cable is secure at both ends.
If an infrared printer doesn’t print
• Windows NT 4.0 does not support infrared devices.
• Make sure the infrared light path is not blocked.
• Check for paper in the printer or other printer errors.
• Make sure Windows is running—infrared printing is supported only while
Windows is running.
• An infrared driver must be installed and the BIOS Setup setting must be
enabled. For details, refer to the driver’s Readme file (located in
\Omnibook\DriversWin95\Irda\Fastir).
• In Windows Help, use the Print Troubleshooter.
If the left edge of printed output is missing
• If the printer you are using is a 600-dpi (dots per inch) printer, try selecting a
compatible printer driver for a 300-dpi printer. For example, for a 600-dpi
HP LaserJet printer, try using the HP LaserJet IIIsi driver (300-dpi). Certain
applications may not work properly with 600-dpi printers.
Serial and Parallel Problems
If the serial mouse doesn’t work
• First, confirm that you have followed the manufacturer’s installation instructions
completely and have installed the mouse properly.
• Check the port connection (may be loose).
If a serial modem doesn’t work properly
• In Windows Help use the modem troubleshooter.
• Check the port connection (may be loose).
47
If an I/O card stops communicating properly
• It may have been reset if the OmniBook suspended or turned off. Exit and
restart the application.
If the serial or parallel port is not working
• Check the port connection (may be loose).
• Check settings in BIOS Setup.
1. From the Start menu, shut down, then restart the OmniBook.
2. When you see the HP logo, press F2 to enter the BIOS Setup utility.
3. From the System Devices menu, check that Parallel Port or Serial Port is
enabled.
Startup Problems
If the OmniBook doesn’t respond at turn-on
• Connect the ac adapter.
• Press blue power to try turning on the unit.
• Reset the OmniBook.
If you get no response, remove the battery and ac adapter—then plug in the ac
adapter and try resetting. If you still get no response, the unit requires service.
If the OmniBook doesn’t boot from battery power
• Make sure the battery is properly inserted.
• Check battery level on status panel and battery LEDs.
• Check battery contacts. If available, try another battery.
If the OmniBook doesn’t boot from the floppy disk drive
• Check the boot order in the BIOS Setup utility.
1. From the Start menu, shut down, then restart the OmniBook.
2. When you see the HP logo, press F2 to enter the BIOS Setup utility.
3. Open the Boot menu. The default boot order is
• Diskette Drive
• Hard Drive
• CD-ROM Drive
4. If Diskette Drive is not option 1, use the arrow keys to select Diskette Drive.
5. Press F6 to move up (or F5 to move down) in the list.
6. Press F10 to Save and Exit the BIOS Setup utility.
• Check that the Floppy Boot option in the BIOS Setup utility is enabled.
48
Index
A
from floppy disk drive, 48
brightness, 14
ac adapter
charging battery, 24
connecting, 11, 24
docking product, 37
jack, 8
safety, 9
status, 19
accessories
CD-ROM drive, 28
floppy disk drive, 28
problems, 41
secondary battery, 28
Zip drive, 28
adjusting
brightness, 14
volume, 15
Alt Gr key, 17
audio
adjusting volume, 15
connections, 34
problems, 42
audio jacks
location, 8
using, 34
backlight
life, 15
backlight life, 15
backup battery, 23
battery
backup, 23
brightness affects, 15
charging, 24
charging time, 24
life, 24
low warning, 23
operating time, 15, 25
permanent, 23
problems, 45
replacing, 24
safety, 9
saving power, 25
status, 19
beeping, 23
BIOS Setup utility
deleting password, 21
setting password, 20
setting time-outs, 26
booting
from CD-ROM drive, 41
B
C
cable
floppy disk drive, 29
security lock, 22
Caps Lock, 20
CardBus, 35
cards
inserting, 35
removing, 36
CD-ROM drive
booting from, 41
inserting CDs, 30
opening manually, 30
removing CDs, 30
status, 20
CDs, 30
charging
optimum, 24
starting, 24
status, 19, 24
time, 24
CHKDSK, 43
cleaning
computer, 40
display, 40
COM1 port, 8
connecting
ac adapter, 24
audio source, 34
external keyboard or mouse, 33
external monitor, 31
microphone, 34
mouse, 32
parallel device, 32
printer, 32
serial device, 32
speakers, 34
USB device, 33
contrast, 14
corrupted files, 43
CTRL+ALT (external keyboard), 33
CTRL+ALT+DEL, 13
cursor (pointer), 13
cursor control, 17
D
data storage device status, 20
disks
CDs, 30
floppy, 30
49
display
activating, 31
adjusting, 14
extending life, 15
external, 31
port location, 8
problems, 42
properties, 31
docking port, 8
docking products
tray, 37
using, 37
documentation, 4, 40
dragging items, 13
drive C
booting from, 13
drive status, 20
E
embedded keypad
problems, 44
using, 17
external
keyboard, 33
keyboard port, 8
monitor, 31
F
F1 through F12, 16
fast infrared, 34
FIR
port location, 8
using, 34
floppy disk drive
booting from, 48
connecting externally, 29
inserting disks, 30
status, 20
Fn key
+ DOWN-ARROW (decrease volume), 17
+ F1 (decrease brightness), 16
+ F10 (Scroll Lock), 16
+ F12 (Hibernate), 12, 16
+ F2 (increase brightness), 16
+ F3 (decrease contrast), 16
+ F4 (increase contrast), 16
+ F5 (display selection), 15, 16, 31
+ F6 (battery status), 16
+ F7 (mute speakers), 16
+ F8 (keypad lock), 16
+ F9 (Num Lock), 16
+ R (Suspend), 16
+ S (Standby), 12, 17
+ UP-ARROW (increase volume), 17
external keyboard, 33
using, 16
function keys
F1 (help), 4
F2 (BIOS Setup utility), 20
hot keys, 16
G
getting help
information sources, 4
online manual, 4
H
hard disk drive
problems, 43
status, 20
headphones, 34
help
information sources, 4
online manual, 4
Windows, 9
Hibernate mode
low battery, 23
using, 25
hot keys, 16
I
icons (status panel), 19
indicators (status panel), 19
infrared
communications, 34
light path, 43
port location, 8
printing problems, 43
problems, 43
setting up, 34
installing
PC Cards, 35
plug-in modules, 28
instant-on, 12
K
Kensington lock, 22
keyboard
embedded keypad, 17
external, 33
port location, 8
problems, 44
status, 20
keypad
cursor control, 17
embedded, 17
numeric, 17
Keypad Lock, 20
keys
Windows, 17
50
L
laser safety, 10
learning Windows, 9
LED safety, 9
lid switch, 12
lights
ac adapter, 11
infrared, 43
status, 19
lock-up, 13
low battery
charging, 24
replacing, 24
warning, 23
LPT1 port, 8
M
maintenance
computer, 40
display, 40
McAfee VirusScan, 22
memory problems, 44
microphone
built-in, 7
connecting, 34
MicroSaver lock, 22
monitor
external, 31
mouse
(PS/2) port location, 8
connecting, 33
serial, 32
settings, 14
moving the pointer, 13
N
Num Lock
status, 20
using, 17
numeric keypad, 17
O
on/off button
action, 12
location, 7
online User’s Handbook, 4
P
setting, 20
PC Cards
inserting, 35
problems, 44
removing, 36
saving power, 25
slots for, 8, 35
status, 20
types, 35
performance problems, 45
plug-in modules
CD-ROM drive, 28
floppy disk drive, 28
location, 7
replacing, 28
secondary battery, 28
Zip drive, 28
pointer
customizing, 14
pointing devices
customizing, 14
location, 7
problems, 44
settings, 14
ports
ac (docking product), 37
locations, 8
power
button, 12
button location, 7
connecting ac, 11, 24
conserving, 26
cord, 24
indicator location, 7
modes, 12
on and off, 12
problems, 45
saving, 25
status, 19
suspending, 12
power management
status, 19
strategies, 25
printer
connecting, 32
infrared, 43
problems, 47
protection
security cable, 22
PS/2
connection, 33
mouse port, 8
parallel port
connecting device, 32
location, 8
problems, 47
password
clearing, 21
R
RAM
troubleshooting, 44
rebooting
from drive C, 13
51
rebooting the computer, 13
recharging battery, 24
Reference Guide, 4, 40
removing
battery, 24
PC Cards, 36
plug-in modules, 28
replacing
battery, 24
plug-in modules, 28
reset, 13
restart, 13
S
safety information, 9
saving battery power, 25
Scandisk, 43
Scroll Lock, 20
secondary battery
installing, 28
using, 25
security cable, 22
selecting
items, 13
serial port
connecting device, 32
conserving power, 25
location, 8
problems, 47
service, 9, 10
Setup utility, 26
shift keys, 16, 17, 33
shortcut keys, 16
shut down, 12
slow infrared, 34
sound
connections, 34
volume, 15
Sound Blaster Pro, 15
speakers
connecting, 34
location, 7
volume, 15
Start menu, 12
startup
problems, 48
status
battery, 19
drive, 20
keyboard, 20
power, 19
status lights
interpreting, 19
location, 8
status panel
indicators, 19
location, 7
stereo input/output, 34
support, 9, 10
Suspend mode, 25
suspending power, 12
system
password, 20
status, 19
system-off button
location, 7
using, 13
T
tapping items, 13
technical support, 4
time-out settings, 26
touch pad
location, 7
moving, 13
problems, 44
settings, 14
using, 13
tour of Windows, 9
transporting the computer, 13
tray
dock, 37
troubleshooting
accessory problems, 41
audio problems, 42
battery problems, 45
display problems, 42
embedded keypad, 44
hard disk drive problems, 43
infrared problems, 43
keyboard problems, 44
memory problems, 44
no response, 13
parallel problems, 47
PC Card problems, 44
performance problems, 45
pointing devices, 44
power problems, 45
printing problems, 47
serial problems, 47
startup problems, 48
touch pad problems, 44
turning off
automatically, 23
manually, 12
turning on, 12
typing numbers, 17
U
undocking, 39
universal serial bus (USB)
connecting, 33
port location, 8
USB, 33
52
VGA output, 8
virus detection, 22, 43
volume, 15
V
Windows
keys, 17
learning about, 9
Z
W
warning (low battery), 23
website, 4
Zip drive
installing, 28
problems, 41
Zoomed Video, 35
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