IBM PC 300PL, PC 300PL Type 6584, PC 300PL Type 6594 User Manual

PC 300PL User Guide

Types 6584 and 6594

PC 300PL User Guide

Types 6584 and 6594

IBM

Note

Before using this information and the product it supports, be sure to read the
general information under Appendix C, “Product warranties and notices” on
page 151.

First Edition (September 1999)

The following paragraph does not apply to the United Kingdom or any country where
such provisions are inconsistent with local law: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS

MACHINES CORPORATION PROVIDES THIS PUBLICATION “AS IS” WITHOUT
WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT
LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS
FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. Some states do not allow disclaimer of express or
implied warranties in certain transactions, therefore, this statement may not apply to
you.

This publication could include technical inaccuracies or typographical errors. Changes
are periodically made to the information herein; these changes will be incorporated in
new editions of the publication. IBM may make improvements and/or changes in the
product(s) and/or the program(s) described in this publication at any time.

This publication was developed for products and services offered in the United States of
America. IBM may not offer the products, services, or features discussed in this
document in other countries, and the information is subject to change without notice.
Consult your local IBM representative for information on the products, services, and
features available in your area.

Requests for technical information about IBM products should be made to your IBM
reseller or IBM marketing representative.

 Copyright International Business Machines Corporation 1999. All rights reserved.

Note to U.S. Government Users — Documentation related to restricted rights — Use,
duplication or disclosure is subject to restrictions set forth in GSA ADP Schedule
Contract with IBM Corp.

Contents

Safety information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vii

Laser compliance statement ....................... viii

Lithium battery notice ............................ x

About this book .............................. xi

Related information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xi

Chapter 1. IBM PC 300PL overview .................... 1

Identifying your computer ......................... 1

Desktop model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Tower model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Desktop model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Tower model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Chapter 2. Setting up your computer ................... 9

Selecting a location for your computer ................... 9

Connecting computer cables ....................... 10

Finish the installation ........................... 15

Arranging your workspace ........................ 15

Comfort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Glare and lighting ........................... 16

Air circulation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Electrical outlets and cable lengths .................. 17

Chapter 3. Operating and caring for your computer .......... 19

Controls and status indicators ...................... 19

Starting your computer .......................... 20

Shutting down . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Using diskettes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Handling and storing diskettes .................... 23

Inserting and removing diskettes ................... 23

Write-protecting diskettes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Using a CD-ROM drive .......................... 24

Handling a CD ............................. 25

Loading a CD .............................. 25

Using video features ............................ 25

Video device drivers .......................... 26

Changing monitor settings ....................... 26

Using audio features ............................ 27

Updating system programs ........................ 27

Managing your computer ......................... 28

Wake on LAN ............................. 28

 Copyright IBM Corp. 1999 iii

Alert on LAN .............................. 29

Remote Program Load or Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol .. 29

Remote Administration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

LANClient Control Manager ...................... 29

System Migration Assistant (SMA) .................. 30

Desktop Management Interface .................... 30

Using security features .......................... 30

Anti-intrusion features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Component protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Asset ID capability ........................... 31

IBM security solutions ......................... 32

Data protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Enhanced security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Locking the keyboard ......................... 33

Taking care of your computer ....................... 34

Basics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Cleaning your computer ........................ 34

Moving your computer ......................... 36

Chapter 4. Using the Configuration/Setup Utility program ...... 37

Starting and using the Configuration/Setup Utility program ...... 37

Viewing and changing settings .................... 38

Exiting from the Configuration/Setup Utility program ....... 39

Using passwords . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Using a power-on password ...................... 40

Using an administrator password ................... 43

Using Security Profile by Device ................... 45

Using Enhanced Security ......................... 46

Other settings in the Configuration/Setup Utility program ....... 47

Changing keyboard speed ....................... 47

Setting the startup sequence ...................... 48

Settings that affect the startup procedure ............... 49

Setting Remote Administration .................... 49

Interrupt and DMA resources ..................... 50

Power-management features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Quick reference for network-related settings ............. 54

Enabling the Pentium III processor serial number feature ........ 57

Chapter 5. Installing options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Preparing to install options ........................ 59

Handling static-sensitive devices ................... 59

Available options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Tools required . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Installing options in the desktop model ................. 61

Removing the cover .......................... 61

Locating components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Identifying parts on the system board ................. 64

iv PC 300PL User Guide

Locating components on the riser card ................ 65

Installing adapters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Working with internal drives ..................... 68

Replacing the cover and connecting the cables ............ 76

Installing options in the tower model .................. 76

Removing the cover .......................... 77

Locating components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

Identifying parts on the system board ................. 78

Locating components on the riser card ................ 79

Installing adapters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Working with internal drives ..................... 83

Replacing the cover and connecting the cables ............ 92

Working with memory .......................... 93

Removing a memory module or continuity RIMM .......... 98

Installing a memory module or continuity RIMM .......... 99

Installing a security U-bolt ....................... 100

Completing the installation ....................... 101

Updating the computer configuration ................ 102

Configuring Plug and Play adapters ................ 102

Configuring ISA legacy adapters .................. 103

Starting the Configuration/Setup Utility program ......... 103

Configuring startup devices ..................... 104

Chapter 6. Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105

Power-on self-test (POST) ........................ 106

Troubleshooting MAP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

Diagnostic error codes and messages .................. 110

POST error messages .......................... 110

POST beep codes ............................. 114

Device troubleshooting charts ...................... 115

Diskette drive problems ....................... 117

Monitor problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118

General problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120

Intermittent problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120

Keyboard, mouse, or pointing device problems .......... 121

Memory problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122

Option problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123

Parallel port problems ........................ 124

Serial port problems ......................... 125

Printer problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125

Software problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126

Universal Serial Bus port problems ................. 126

IBM Enhanced Diagnostics program .................. 126

Other diagnostic programs ....................... 129

CoSession Remote . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129

Recovering from a POST/BIOS update failure ............. 130

Installing files from Option Diskettes .................. 131

Contents v

Replacing the battery .......................... 131

Chapter 7. Getting help, service, and information .......... 133

Service support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133

Before you call for service ........................ 135

Getting customer support and service ................. 135

Using the World Wide Web ..................... 135

Using electronic support services .................. 136

Getting information by fax ...................... 137

Getting help online .......................... 137

Getting help by telephone ...................... 137

Getting help around the world ................... 139

Purchasing additional services ..................... 139

Enhanced PC support line ...................... 140

900-number operating system and hardware support line ..... 140

Network and server support line .................. 140

Ordering support line services .................... 141

Warranty and repair services .................... 141

Ordering publications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142

Appendix A. Using the Software Selections CD ........... 143

Features of the CD ............................ 143

Starting the CD ............................. 144

Using the Software Selections program ................. 144

Appendix B. Computer records . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147

Serial numbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147

Device records . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147

Appendix C. Product warranties and notices ............ 151

Warranty Statements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151

IBM Statement of Limited Warranty for United States, Puerto Rico,

and Canada (Part 1 - General Terms) ............... 151

IBM Statement of Warranty Worldwide except Canada, Puerto Rico,

Turkey, United States (Part 1 - General Terms) .......... 154

Part 2 - Worldwide Country-Unique Terms ............ 158

Notices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161

Year 2000 readiness and instructions ................ 162

Trademarks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 163

Electronic emission notices ....................... 163

Class B Notices ............................ 164

Class A Notices ............................ 165

Other Notices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166

Power cord notice .......................... 169

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171

vi PC 300PL User Guide

Safety information

Turn ever ything OFF.

Attach signal cables to
receptacles.

First, remove power cord from
outlet.

To Disconnect

Turn device ON.

DANGER:

Turn ever ything OFF.

To Connect

Remove signal cables from
receptacles.

Remove all cables from devices.

Attach power cord to outlet.

First, attach all cables to devices.

Electrical current from power, telephone, and communication
cables is hazardous. To avoid shock hazard, connect and
disconnect cables as shown below when installing, moving or
opening the covers of this product or attached devices. The
power cord must be used with a properly grounded outlet.

 Copyright IBM Corp. 1999 vii

DANGER

To avoid a shock hazard, do not connect or disconnect any cables
or perform installation, maintenance, or reconfiguration of this
product during an electrical storm.

DANGER

Pour éviter tout risque de choc électrique, ne manipulez pas de
câbles ni de cordons et n'effectuez pas d'opération d'installation,
de maintenance ou de reconfiguration pendant un orage.

Laser compliance statement

Some IBM Personal Computer models are equipped from the factory with a
CD-ROM drive or a DVD-ROM drive. CD-ROM drives and DVD-ROM
drives are also sold separately as options. CD-ROM drives and DVD-ROM
drives are laser products. These drives are certified in the U.S. to conform
to the requirements of the Department of Health and Human Services 21
Code of Federal Regulations (DHHS 21 CFR) Subchapter J for Class 1 laser
products. Elsewhere, these drives are certified to conform to the
requirements of the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 825
and CENELEC EN 60 825 for Class 1 laser products.

When a CD-ROM drive or a DVD-ROM drive is installed, note the
following.

CAUTION:
Use of controls or adjustments or performance of procedures other than
those specified herein might result in hazardous radiation exposure.

Removing the covers of the CD-ROM drive or DVD-ROM drive could result
in exposure to hazardous laser radiation. There are no serviceable parts
inside the CD-ROM drive or DVD-ROM drive. Do not remove the drive

covers.

Some CD-ROM drives and DVD-ROM drives contain an embedded Class
3A or Class 3B laser diode. Note the following.

viii PC 300PL User Guide

DANGER

Laser radiation when open. Do not stare into the beam, do not
view directly with optical instruments, and avoid direct exposure
to the beam.

Certains modèles d'ordinateurs personnels sont équipés d'origine d'une
unité de CD-ROM ou de DVD-ROM. Mais ces unités sont également
vendues séparément en tant qu'options. L'unité de CD-ROM/DVD-ROM est
un appareil à laser. Aux État-Unis, l'unité de CD-ROM/DVD-ROM est
certifiée conforme aux normes indiquées dans le sous-chapitre J du DHHS
21 CFR relatif aux produits à laser de classe 1. Dans les autres pays, elle est
certifiée être un produit à laser de classe 1 conforme aux normes CEI 825 et
CENELEC EN 60 825.

Lorsqu'une unité de CD-ROM/DVD-ROM est installée, tenez compte des
remarques suivantes:

ATTENTION
Pour éviter tout risque d'exposition au rayon laser, respectez les consignes
de réglage et d'utilisation des commandes, ainsi que les procédures
décrites.

L'ouverture de l'unité de CD-ROM/DVD-ROM peut entraîner un risque
d'exposition au rayon laser. Pour toute intervention, faites appel à du
personnel qualifié.

Certaines unités de CD-ROM/DVD-ROM peuvent contenir une diode à
laser de classe 3A ou 3B. Tenez compte de la consigne qui suit:

DANGER

Rayonnement laser lorsque le carter est ouvert. Évitez toute
exposition directe des yeux au rayon laser. Évitez de regarder
fixement le faisceau ou de l'observer à l'aide d'instruments
optiques.

Safety information ix

Lithium battery notice

CAUTION:
Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced.

When replacing the battery, use only IBM Part Number 33F8354 or an
equivalent type battery recommended by the manufacturer. The battery
contains lithium and can explode if not properly used, handled, or
disposed of.

Do not:

 Throw or immerse into water
 Heat to more than 100°C (212°F)
 Repair or disassemble

Dispose of the battery as required by local ordinances or regulations.

ATTENTION
Danger d'explosion en cas de remplacement incorrect de la batterie.

Remplacer uniquement par une batterie IBM de type 33F8354 ou d'un
type équivalent recommandé par le fabricant. La batterie contient du
lithium et peut exploser en cas de mauvaise utilisation, de mauvaise
manipulation ou de mise au rebut inappropriée.

Ne pas :

 Lancer ou plonger dans l'eau
 Chauffer à plus de 100°C (212°F)
 Réparer ou désassembler

Mettre au rebut les batteries usagées conformément aux règlements
locaux.

x PC 300PL User Guide

About this book

This book will help you become familiar with your IBM Personal
Computer and its features. It describes how to set up, operate, maintain,
and install options in your computer. In the unlikely event you experience
problems, you will find helpful troubleshooting information and
instructions for obtaining service in this book.

Related information

The following documentation contains additional information about your
computer:

 About Your Software

This publication (provided only with computers that have
IBM-preinstalled software) contains information about the preinstalled
software package.

 Understanding Your Personal Computer

This online publication (preinstalled on your computer and provided
on the Software Selections CD that comes with your computer) includes
general information about using personal computers and in-depth
information about the specific features of your computer. For
information on how to access this online publication, see About Your
Software.

 Hardware Maintenance Manual

This publication contains information for trained service technicians. It
can be found on the World Wide Web at the following Web site:
http://www.ibm.com/pc/support/us/
Type the machine type/model number into the Quick Path field and
click Go. Click Online publications and then click Hardware
Maintenance Manuals.

This manual can also be ordered from IBM. To purchase a copy, refer
to Chapter 7, “Getting help, service, and information” on page 133.

 Technical Information Manual

This publication contains information for individuals who want to
know more about the technical aspects of their computer. It can be
found on the World Wide Web at the following Web site:
http://www.ibm.com/pc/support/us/
Type the machine type/model number into the Quick Path field and
click Go. Click Online publications and then click Technical Manuals.

 Copyright IBM Corp. 1999 xi

xii PC 300PL User Guide

Chapter 1. IBM PC 300PL overview

Thank you for selecting an IBM PC 300PL. Your computer incorporates
many of the latest advances in computer technology and can be upgraded
as your needs change.

This section provides an overview of the computer features, preinstalled
software, and specifications.

Identifying your computer

In most instances, the best way to identify your computer is by the machine
type/model number. The machine type/model number indicates the
various features of the computer, such as the type of microprocessor or the
number of bays. You can find this number on the small label on the front
of your computer. An example of a machine type/model number is
6584-110.

This book describes PC 300PL models in desktop and tower versions.
These naming conventions are used only where it is appropriate.
Instructions without these naming conventions apply to both the computer
models.

 Copyright IBM Corp. 1999 1

Desktop model

The desktop model comes with four drive bays, one AGP slot with a
preinstalled video adapter, and either four PCI expansion slots or,
optionally, two PCI slots, one shared PCI and ISA slot, and one ISA slot. If
your computer comes with a CD-ROM drive, it is next to the diskette drive.
When the desktop model is in its normal position (drives horizontal), you
can place the monitor on top of it.

2 PC 300PL User Guide

Tower model

The tower model comes with six drive bays, six PCI expansion slots, and
one AGP slot with a preinstalled video adapter. The drive bays in the
tower model are aligned on top of one another. If your computer has a
CD-ROM drive, it is installed in the bay at the top of the computer. When
the tower model is in its normal position, the drives in the tower are
horizontal with the handle at the top of the computer.

Chapter 1. IBM PC 300PL overview 3

Features

System summary

The following information covers a variety of models. For a listing of
features for your specific model, refer to the System Summary screen in
the Configuration/Setup Utility program. See Chapter 4, “Using the
Configuration/Setup Utility program” on page 37 for more information.

Microprocessor

Your PC 300PL includes an Intel



Pentium III microprocessor with up to

512 KB of L2 cache memory.

Memory

 Support for:

– 2.5 V, 184-pin, Rambus inline memory module (RIMM) that

contains error correcting code (ECC) or non-ECC Rambus dynamic
random access memory (RDRAM)

– 64 MB, 128 MB, 256, and 512 MB (when available) RIMMs for a

maximum of 1 GB

– RIMM heights up to 63.5 mm (2.5 inches)

 512 KB flash memory for system programs

Internal drives

 Standard:

– One 3.5-inch, 1.44 MB diskette drive
– One internal hard disk drive

 Some models: One EIDE CD-ROM drive

Graphics subsystem

High-performance accelerated graphics port (AGP) graphics adapter with
up to 16 MB synchronous graphics RAM (SGRAM) video memory

Audio subsystem:

 Integrated audio controller compatible with Microsoft Windows Sound

System

 Supports most Sound Blaster applications

10/100 Megabits per second Ethernet adapter that supports:

 Wake on LAN



(some models)

 Alert on LAN (some models)

4 PC 300PL User Guide

System management features

 Remote Program Load (RPL) and Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol

(DHCP)

 Wake on LAN (requires Wake on LAN-supported network adapter)
 Wake on Alarm
 Remote Administration (ability to update POST and BIOS over the

network)

 Automatic power-on startup
 System Management (SM) BIOS and software
 Ability to store POST hardware test results
 Built-in system management hardware (temperature sensors, fan-speed

monitor, chassis-intrusion detector, power supply and processor voltage
monitor, and power-switch bypass)

Input/output features

 25-pin, Extended Capabilities Port (ECP)/Extended Parallel Port (EPP)

parallel port

 Two 9-pin, 16550 UART serial ports
 Two 4-pin, Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports

 Mouse port
 Keyboard port

 Monitor port (on graphics adapter)
 Three audio connectors (line out, line in, and microphone)

Expansion

 Drive bays

– Desktop model: four drive bays
– Tower model: six drive bays

 Adapter slots with support for Plug and Play adapters

– Desktop:

- Four PCI expansion slots (some models)

- Two PCI, one ISA, and one shared PCI/ISA expansion slots
(some models)

– Tower: six PCI expansion slots
PCI slot 1 supports the Alert on LAN feature for use with Alert on
LAN-supported network adapters

Power

 Manual switch between ranges, 90–137/180–265 V ac
 Automatic switching, 57–63/47–53 Hz input frequency range
 Built-in overload and surge protection
 Advanced Power Management support
 Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) support

Chapter 1. IBM PC 300PL overview 5

Security features

 Cover lock and keys
 Support for the addition of a U-bolt and lockable cable
 Power-on and administrator passwords
 Startup sequence control
 Startup without diskette drive, keyboard, or mouse
 Unattended start mode
 Diskette and hard disk I/O control
 Serial and parallel port I/O control
 Alert on LAN (requires Alert on LAN supported network adapter)
 Security profile by device
 IBM Security Solutions

IBM preinstalled software

Your computer might come with preinstalled software. If so, an operating
system, device drivers to support built-in features, and other support
programs are included. See About Your Software for a detailed description
of the preinstalled software.

Operating systems (supported)

 Microsoft



Windows NT Workstation Versions 3.51 and 4.0

 Microsoft Windows 95 and Windows 98

Operating systems (tested for compatibility)

1

 Novell NetWare Versions 3.2, 4.11, 5.0
 SCO OpenServer 5.0.4

 OS/2



 MS-DOS6.22

 IBM PC DOS 7.0
 Sun Solaris 2.5.1 or later

1

The operating systems listed here are being tested for compatibility at the time this
publication goes to press. Additional operating systems might be identified by IBM
as compatible with your computer following the publication of this booklet.
Corrections and additions to the list are available in the IBM online compatibility
report, which can be found on the World Wide Web. For World Wide Web pages,
see Chapter 7, “Getting help, service, and information” on page 133.

6 PC 300PL User Guide

Specifications

System specifications provide information to help you in the setup of your
computer.

Desktop model

Dimensions

 Height: 134 mm (5.3 in.)
 Width: 447 mm (17.6 in.)
 Depth: 450 mm (17.7 in.)

Weight

 Minimum configuration as shipped: 9.9

kg (22 lb)

 Maximum configuration: 11.3 kg (25 lb)

Environment

 Air temperature:

– System on: 10° to 32°C (50° to 90°F)
– System off: 10° to 43°C (50° to 110°F)

 Humidity:

– System on: 8% to 80%
– System off: 8% to 80%

 Maximum altitude: 2134 m (7000 ft)

Electrical input

 Input voltage:

– Low range:

- Minimum: 90 V ac

- Maximum: 137 V ac

- Input frequency range: 57–63 Hz

- Voltage switch setting: 115 V ac

– High range:

- Minimum: 180 V ac

- Maximum: 265 V ac

- Input frequency range: 47–53 Hz

- Voltage switch setting: 230 V ac

– Input kilovolt-amperes (kVA)

(approximately):

- Minimum configuration as
shipped: 0.05 kVA

- Maximum configuration: 0.52
kVA

Note: Power consumption and heat

output vary depending on the
number and type of optional
features installed and the power
management optional features in
use.

Heat output

 Approximate heat output in British

thermal units (Btu) per hour:
– Minimum configuration: 245 Btu/hr

(70 watts)

– Maximum configuration: 700 Btu/hr

(204 watts)

Airflow

 Approximately 0.56 cubic meters per

minute (20 cubic feet per minute)

Acoustical noise-emission values

 Average sound-pressure levels:

– At operator position:

- Idle: 34 dBA

- Operating: 41 dBA

– At bystander position–1 meter (3.3

ft):

- Idle: 29 dBA

- Operating: 34 dBA

 Declared (upper limit) sound power

levels:
– Idle: 4.5 bels
– Operating: 5.0 bels

Note: These levels were measured in
controlled acoustical environments
according to procedures specified by the
American National Standards Institute
(ANSI) S12.10 and ISO 7779 and are
reported in accordance with ISO 9296.
Actual sound-pressure levels in your
location might exceed the average values
stated because of room reflections and
other nearby noise sources. The declared
sound power levels indicate an upper
limit, below which a large number of
computers will operate.

Chapter 1. IBM PC 300PL overview 7

Tower model

Dimensions

 Height: 492 mm (19.4 in.)
 Width: 200 mm (7.9 in.)
 Depth: 445 mm (17.5 in.)

Weight

 Minimum configuration as shipped: 15

kg (33 lb)

 Maximum configuration: 17.3 kg (38 lb)

Environment

 Air temperature:

– System on: 10° to 32°C (50° to 90°F)
– System off: 10° to 43°C (50° to 110°F)

 Humidity:

– System on: 8% to 80%
– System off: 8% to 80%

 Maximum altitude: 2134 m (7000 ft)

Electrical input

 Input voltage:

– Low range:

- Minimum: 90 V ac

- Maximum: 137 V ac

- Input frequency range: 57-63 Hz

- Voltage switch setting: 115 V

– High range:

- Minimum: 180 V ac

- Maximum: 265 V ac

- Input frequency range: 47-53 Hz

- Voltage switch setting: 230 V

– Input kilovolt-amperes (kVA)

(approximately):

- Minimum configuration as
shipped: 0.08 kVA

- Maximum configuration: 0.51
kVA

Note: Power consumption and heat

output vary depending on the
number and type of optional
features installed and the power
management optional features in
use.

Heat output

 Approximate heat output in British

thermal units (Btu) per hour:
– Minimum configuration: 245 Btu/hr

(70 watts)

– Maximum configuration: 969 Btu/hr

(285 watts)

Airflow

 Approximately 0.56 cubic meters per

minute (20 cubic feet per minute)

Acoustical noise-emission values

 Average sound-pressure levels:

– At operator position:

- Idle: 33 dBA

- Operating: 35 dBA

– At bystander position–1 meter (3.3

ft):

- Idle: 29 dBA

- Operating: 32 dBA

– Declared (upper limit) sound power

levels:

- Idle: 4.5 bels

- Operating: 4.8 bels

Note: These levels were measured in
controlled acoustical environments
according to procedures specified by the
American National Standards Institute
(ANSI) S12.10 and ISO 7779 and are
reported in accordance with ISO 9296.
Actual sound-pressure levels in your
location might exceed the average values
stated because of room reflections and
other nearby noise sources. The declared
sound power levels indicate an upper
limit, below which a large number of
computers will operate.

8 PC 300PL User Guide

Chapter 2. Setting up your computer

This section provides information for connecting cables to your computer.

Before you begin

Read “Safety information” on page vii before setting up your computer.

You will need the following:
 Computer

 Computer power cord
 Keyboard
 Mouse

 Monitor (sold separately with signal cable and power cord)

If you are missing an item, contact your place of purchase.

Selecting a location for your computer

Make sure you have an adequate number of properly grounded electrical
outlets for the computer, monitor, and any other devices. Select a location
for the computer where it will remain dry. Leave about 50 mm (2 in.) of
space around the computer for proper air circulation.

For information about arranging your computer for comfort and ease-of-use,
see “Arranging your workspace” on page 15.

 Copyright IBM Corp. 1999 9

Connecting computer cables

When you set up your computer, you will need to know where to find the
connectors.

The following illustration shows the location of the connectors on the back
of the desktop model computer. You might not have all of the devices
shown here.

2

2

1

1

USB 1

Parallel

Microphone

Line

In

Line

Out

Keyboard

Mouse

Serial 1

Serial 2

USB 2

DVI
Monitor

SVGA
Monitor

Notes:

1. The connectors on the rear of the computer have color-coded icons.
You can use the icons to determine where to connect cables on your
computer.

2. Some models might come with a digital visual interface (DVI)
connector instead of a super video graphics array (VGA) connector.
See page 12.

10 PC 300PL User Guide

The following illustration shows the location of the connectors on the back
of the tower model computer. You might not have all of the devices shown
here.

2

2

1

1

USB 2

Parallel

Line In

Microphone

Line Out

Keyboard

Mouse

Serial 1

Serial 2

USB 1

DVI
Monitor

SVGA
Monitor

Notes:

1. The connectors on the rear of the computer have color-coded icons.
You can use the icons will help you to determine where to connect
cables on your computer.

2. Some models might come with a digital visual interface (DVI)
connector instead of a super video graphics array (VGA) connector.
See page 12.

Chapter 2. Setting up your computer 11

Use the following steps to set up your computer:

1. Check the position of the voltage-selection switch. Use a ballpoint pen
to slide the switch, if necessary.

 If the voltage supply range is 90–137 V ac, set the voltage switch to

115 V.

 If the voltage supply range is 180–265 V ac, set the voltage switch

to 230 V.

Voltage Switch

115

2. Connect the monitor cable to the monitor (if it is not already attached)
and then to the monitor connector; tighten the attachment screws.

SVGA
Monitor

DVI
Monitor

SVGA
Monitor
Converter

Desktop

SVGA
Monitor

SVGA
Monitor
Converter

DVI
Monitor

Tower

Note: If your computer has an SVGA monitor converter, it might

already be connected and it might look different than the one
shown here.

12 PC 300PL User Guide

3. Connect the keyboard cable to the gray keyboard connector. Connect
the mouse cable to the green mouse connector.

Mouse

Keyboard

Desktop

Keyboard Mouse

Tower

Note: If your computer comes with Windows NT Workstation and a

ScrollPoint



mouse, the first time you start up your computer,
your mouse will not have its ScrollPoint function. You must
shut down and restart the computer to enable the ScrollPoint
function.

4. Connect any additional devices you have.
 Any printer or parallel device to the parallel port connector.

Parallel

Desktop

Parallel

Tower

 Any serial device or external modem in the serial connector.

Serial
Device

Desktop

Serial
Device

Tower

Chapter 2. Setting up your computer 13

 Any Universal Serial Bus (USB) devices.

USB
Device

Desktop

USB

Tower

 Any optional devices, such as speakers, microphones, or

headphones, for models with an audio device.

Desktop

Audio

Tower

 Connect the power cord to the power connector. If there is a label

covering the power connector, remove it. Connect the power cords
to the computer, monitor, and other devices first, and then plug
the cords into properly grounded electrical outlets.

Power

Important:

 When you first plug in the power cord, the computer turns

on for a few seconds, then turns off. This is normal
operation.

 In some circumstances, the computer might not turn off

immediately when you press the power switch. In this
case, hold the power switch down until the computer
turns off.

14 PC 300PL User Guide

 Connect the Ethernet cable (for models with an Ethernet adapter).

Ethernet

Finish the installation

Locate identification numbers (serial and model/type) and record this
information in Appendix B, “Computer records” on page 147.

See “Related information” on page xi for sources of other information about
your computer. For information about IBM-installed software, see About

Your Software in your applications package. Additional programs are on the
Software Selections CD and in some cases on other CDs and diskettes. If you

install your own operating system, make sure you install the device drivers
after installing your operating system. Device drivers are provided on the
Product Recovery CD or at http://www.ibm.com/pc/us/ on the Word Wide
Web. Installation instructions are provided with the media or in README
files on the diskettes or CDs.

Arranging your workspace

To get the most from your computer, arrange the equipment you use and
your work area to suit your needs and the kind of work you do. Your
comfort is of foremost importance, but light sources, air circulation, and the
location of electrical outlets also can affect the way you arrange your
workspace.

Comfort

Although no single working position is ideal for everyone, the following
guidelines will help you find a position that suits you best.

Choose a good chair to reduce the frequency of fatigue from sitting in the
same position for a long time. The backrest and seat should adjust
independently and provide good support. The seat should have a curved
front to relieve pressure on the thighs. Adjust the seat so that your thighs
are parallel to the floor and your feet are either flat on the floor or on a
footrest.

Chapter 2. Setting up your computer 15

When using the keyboard, keep your forearms parallel to the floor and your
wrists in a neutral, comfortable position. Try to keep a light touch on the
keyboard and your hands and fingers relaxed. You can change the angle of
the keyboard for maximum comfort by adjusting the position of the
keyboard feet.

Viewing Distance

Lower
Back
Support

Seat
Height

Adjust the monitor so that the top of the screen is at, or slightly below, eye
level. Place the monitor at a comfortable viewing distance, usually 51 to 61
cm (20 to 24 in.), and position it so that you can view it without having to
twist your body.

Glare and lighting

Position the monitor to minimize glare and reflections from overhead lights,
windows, and other light sources. Place the monitor at right angles to
windows and other light sources whenever possible. Reduce overhead
lighting, if necessary, by turning off lights or using lower wattage bulbs. If
you install the monitor near a window, use curtains or blinds to block the
sunlight. You might have to adjust the Brightness and Contrast controls on
the monitor as the room lighting changes throughout the day.

Where it is impossible to avoid reflections or to adjust the lighting, place an
antiglare filter over the screen. These filters might affect the clarity of the
image on the screen; try them only after you have exhausted other methods
of reducing glare.

Dust buildup compounds problems associated with glare. Remember to
clean your monitor screen periodically using a soft cloth moistened with a
nonabrasive liquid glass cleaner.

16 PC 300PL User Guide