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i
Note
Before using this information and the product it supports, be sure to read the general information under
Appendix E, “Product Warranties and Notices” on page 255.
First Edition (March 1995)
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 ANY
WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE LIMITED
WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. Some states do not allow
disclaimer or 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 or changes in the products and the programs described in this publication at any time.
It is possible that this publication may contain references to, or information about, IBM products (machines and
programs), programming, or services that are not announced in your country. Such references or information must not
be construed to mean that IBM intends to announce such IBM products, programming, or services in your country.
Requests for technical information about IBM products should be made to your IBM authorized dealer or your IBM
marketing representative.
IBM may have patents or pending patent applications covering subject matter in this document. The furnishing of this
document does not give you any license to these patents. You can send license inquiries, in writing, to the IBM
Director of Licensing, IBM Corporation, 500 Columbus Avenue, Thornwood, NY 10594, U.S.A.
Copyright International Business Machines Corporation 1995. All rights reserved. Note to US 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.
Thank You for Selecting
an IBM ThinkPad 755CX Computer
The IBM ThinkPad 755CX
is one of the most advanced and versatile notebook computers.
With such innovative features as audio, telephony,
infrared ports, a long-life battery,
and a brilliant color display,
the ThinkPad 755CX will satisfy
all of your mobile computing needs.
iii
Distinctive System Features
1
Mwave DSP Audio, Telephony, and
Data/Fax Modem Features
11
Long-Life Battery Pack
2
10
PCMCIA Support
Infrared Communication
Support
9
TrackPoint III
3
ThinkPad Features
8
Easy-Setup
Config
Restart
7
TFT Color LCD Screen
6
Fn Key Function
Program
Thinkpad Features
4
Power Management
5
Security Features
ivIBM ThinkPad 755CX User's Guide
1Mwave DSP audio, telephony, and fax/modem features
The ThinkPad Mwave digital signal processor (DSP) provides high-quality audio, telephony and modem/fax
functions. With a built-in speaker and a microphone, they complete your multimedia computing solution.
(See page 75.)
Note: In some countries, the Mwave telephony functions are available only after the DAA/Telephony Kit
option is installed.
2Infrared communication support
Two infrared ports supplied with your computer make wireless serial communication possible.
(See page 72.)
3ThinkPad Features program
The ThinkPad Features program allows you to set various parameters either with a graphical user interface
or with commands. (See page 35.)
4 Power management
Power management sets the computer to different modes to save battery power when you are not using the
computer. It also provides a resume function, which quickly returns you to your previous operation. (See
page 50.)
5 Security features
The computer provides security passwords for the computer and hard disk drive. Lock security and a
personalization utility are also provided. (See Chapter 5.)
6Fn key function
The combination of this Fn key and a function key controls display modes, battery power-saving modes, or
other functions. (See page 48.)
7TFT color LCD screen
A brilliant TFT color LCD screen supports 65536 colors with the following display resolution for each model:
The 755CX SVGA model supports SVGA (800-by-600 resolution) video mode besides VGA (640-by-480)
mode.
The 755CX VGA model supports VGA (640-by-480) mode.
8 Easy-Setup
The built-in system programs in Easy-Setup makes the basic setup of your computer easy.
(See page 42.)
9 TrackPoint III
With TrackPoint III, pointing, selecting, and dragging all become part of a single process without your lifting
your hands from the keyboard. (See page 23.)
1PCMCIA** support
The computer provides two Personal Computer Memory Card Association (PCMCIA) slots. PCMCIA
software is also provided, so that you can use PC Card** more easily and conveniently. (See page 61.)
11Long-life battery pack
The operating time of the computer is extended with the long-life battery pack.
(See page 20.)
v
viIBM ThinkPad 755CX User's Guide
About This Book
This
User's Guide
IBM ThinkPad 755CX computer (hereafter called
computer
Chapter 1, “Getting Started,” describes the Product Map and
explains how to set up your computer.
Chapter 2, “Getting Familiar with Your Computer,” acquaints you
with additional features of your computer.
Chapter 3, “Operating Your Computer,” explains how to use the
various features of your computer.
Chapter 4, “Using Battery Power,” provides battery information
and describes how to operate your computer with the battery pack.
Chapter 5, “Protecting Your Computer,” provides information on
how you can secure your computer and internal devices against
unauthorized use.
Chapter 6, “Installing and Removing Options,” describes how to
install or remove IBM options.
Chapter 7, “Installing Software,” explains how to install operating
systems, device drivers, and other support software.
Chapter 8, “Solving Computer Problems,” describes what to do if
you detect a problem.
Appendix A, “Avoiding Hardware Conflicts,” describes how you
can avoid problems when you add or remove options.
Appendix B, “Advanced Information for PC Cards,” provides
advanced technical information when using PC Cards.
Appendix C, “Additional Information for Mwave DSP Features,”
provides technical information about the ThinkPad Mwave DSP
functions, audio, and telephony.
Appendix D, “Features and Specifications,” describes the
features and specifications associated with your computer.
Appendix E, “Product Warranties and Notices,” contains the
warranty statements of your computer and notices for this book.
“Glossary,” includes terms appearing in this
definitions.
).
contains information that will help you operate the
755CX
User's Guide
or
and their
Copyright IBM Corp. 1995 vii
Information Notices
This
User's Guide
contains notices that relate to specific information or text.
Note:
Provides important hints,
tips, guidance, or advice.
Warning:
Indicates possible damage
to programs, devices,
system, or data. It appears
before the related instruction
or situation in which possible
damage could occur.
Indicates situations that
are potentially hazardous
to you. It appears in text
before the instruction or
situation that could be
hazardous.
Danger:
Indicates situations that
are potentially lethal or
extremely hazardous to you.
109Chapter2. YoekfBlksdLekjf
It is indicated by the
symbol and appears
in text before the instruction
or situation that could be
dangerous.
Treatment of Icons
This
User's Guide
to the operating system installed in your computer, or pointing you to other information.
OS/2
WIN
viiiIBM ThinkPad 755CX User's Guide
contains the following icons (symbols) representing procedures or information unique
Information for IBM Operating
System/2 (OS/2) users.
Information for Microsoft**
Windows** users.
DOS
Information for DOS users.
Where to go for other information.
Electrical Safety Notice
DANGER:
Electrical current from power, telephone, and communication
cable 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 the devices.
The power cord must be used with a properly grounded outlet.
To Connect
Turn everything OFF.
First, attach all cables to devices.
Attach the signal cables to
receptacles.
Attach the power cord to an outlet.
To Disconnect
Turn everything OFF.
First, remove the power cord from
the outlet.
Remove signal cables from
receptacles.
Remove all cables from devices.
Turn the device ON.
Note: In the U.K., by law, the
telephone line cable must be
connected after the power cord.
About This Bookix
Note: In the U.K., by law, the
power cord must be disconnected
after the telephone line cable.
CAUTION:
Do not disassemble, incinerate, or short-circuit the rechargeable
battery pack. Do not put it in refuse that is disposed of in
landfills. Dispose of it as required by local ordinances or
regulations.
CAUTION:
The lithium battery (IBM P/N 84G6426, UL** recognized
component—File No. MH12210), attached by the speaker under
the keyboard can be replaced only by your IBM authorized
reseller or IBM marketing representative. It contains lithium and
can explode if not properly used, handled, or disposed of. Do
not: (1) throw or immerse into water, (2) heat to more than
100°C (212°F), or (3) repair or disassemble. Dispose of it as
required by local ordinances or regulations.
CAUTION:
The nickel metal hydride rechargeable battery attached under
the diskette drive, can be replaced only by your IBM authorized
reseller or IBM marketing representative. Do not disassemble,
incinerate, or short-circuit it. The battery can cause burns or
release toxic chemicals. Do not put it in refuse that is disposed
of in landfills. Dispose of it as required by local ordinances and
regulations.
CAUTION:
The fluorescent lamp in the liquid crystal display (LCD) contains
mercury. Do not put it in refuse that is disposed of in landfills.
Dispose of it as required by local ordinances or regulations.
The LCD is made of glass, and rough handling or dropping the
computer can cause the LCD to break. If the LCD breaks and
the internal fluid gets into your eyes or on your hands,
immediately wash the affected areas with water for at least 15
minutes; then get medical care if any symptoms are present
after washing.
The IBM ThinkPad 755CX is one of the most advanced computers
for your mobile computing needs. It can used both inside and
outside your office.
This chapter describes the
the computer.
About the Product Map........................ 2
Checking Your Items .......................... 2
Other Symbols on the Product Map................. 4
Setting Up Your Computer...................... 6
Product Map
and the steps for setting up
Copyright IBM Corp. 1995 1
Getting Started
About the Product Map
The Product Map is a foldout diagram that you will see first when
you unpack the computer. Using the Map will help you become
familiar with your computer. When you physically place the shipping
items and options on the Map, you will be able to check that all items
were shipped to you.
Checking Your Items
Remove the Product Map from the box and spread it on a desk or
flat surface. Next, remove each item and place it on the Map in the
position indicated by the numbers in the following figure. If any item
is missing or damaged, contact your place of purchase.
2IBM ThinkPad 755CX User's Guide
1
The keyboard template shows
function-key assignments when
placed on the keyboard.
2
The power cord connects the AC
Adapter to the electrical outlet.
3
The AC Adapter plugs into an
electrical outlet and supplies power
to the computer.
4
The User's Guide is this book. It
provides the installing and operating
information about your computer.
5
The battery pack supplies power to
the computer for mobile operation.
†
6
The Utility Diskette contains the
various system programs.
†
7
The PCMCIA FeaturesDiskette contains the
programs for the PCMCIA
function.
The Video Features Diskette
for OS/2 and Video Features
Diskette for Windows
contain the video system
programs for the different
operating systems.
The Infrared FeaturesDiskette contains the infrared
communication support
programs.
The Mwave DSP FeaturesDiskettes contain the DSP
(digital signal processor)
support programs.
Getting Started
8
Miscellaneous items are supplied
in an envelope that contains:
Spare caps for TrackPoint III
Wallet for telephone cable
PCMCIA slot cover with cable
opening
PC Card lock
Adhesive strap
Application envelope (for some
countries)
Other items
†
For some countries, the shipment contains no diskettes.
Therefore, you cannot place items on the diskette icons when checking the items shipped with your computer.
You can either create the diskettes yourself or you can purchase them. You can create diskettes with the Diskette Factory program, which is
preinstalled in your computer. Follow the prompts that appear when the computer is turned on for the first time. You can also purchase the
diskettes; call 1-800-772-2227 for purchasing information in the U.S., or contact your IBM authorized reseller or IBM marketing representative.
Follow the instructions on “Building System Diskettes” in the
Chapter 1. Getting Started3
Preload Guide
.
Getting Started
Other Symbols on the Product Map
This section describes the slots, connectors, and options that are
shown on the Product Map. To install options, refer to Chapter 6.
4IBM ThinkPad 755CX User's Guide
Getting Started
1
The serial connector is where you
connect a 9-pin, serial-device cable.
2
The parallel connector is where
you usually connect a
parallel-printer signal cable.
3
The external-display connector is
where you connect the signal cable
of a video graphics adapter (VGA),
super video graphics adapter
(SVGA), or compatible display.
4
The infrared ports are used to
make point-to-point communication
with other devices with an infrared
port.
5
The system expansion connector
is used to connect the Dock I, Dock
II, or Port Replicator option.
6
The mouse connects directly to the
external input-device connector or is
used with the external numeric
keypad.
7
The external keyboard connects
to the external input-device
connector through the
keyboard/mouse connector.
8
The external numeric keypad
connects to the external
input-device connector.
9
The PCMCIA slots accept one or
two cards based on Personal
Computer Memory Card
International Association
(PCMCIA).
1
The security keyhole is used
with the Kensington**
MicroSaver** Security System
(hereafter called
or a compatible lock to protect the
devices inside of the computer.
11
The memory slot, which is under
the removable diskette drive,
accepts an integrated-circuit
dynamic random-access memory
(IC DRAM) card or a dual inline
memory module (DIMM) adapter
with one or two DIMM memory
options.
Kensington lock
12
The modem/fax port is where you
connect a telephone connector or
attachment.
Note: This is offered as an option
The microphone/line-in jack, a
1/8-inch (3.5-mm) diameter jack, is
where a stereo microphone or
external audio device is connected.
An externally powered dynamic
microphone or condenser
microphone, or an equivalent audio
device, can be used.
The headphone jack, a 1/8-inch
(3.5-mm) diameter jack, is where
you connect a stereo headphone or
external speakers.
)
Warning:
To avoid possible loss of
hearing, do not put on the
headphones until after you have
turned on the computer or
connected the headphones to
this jack.
in some countries.
13
14
Chapter 1. Getting Started5
Getting Started
Setting Up Your Computer
You are now ready to assemble and start your computer. The
following steps will guide you through the process.
The following conventions are used in the illustrations appearing in
this chapter:
1
Indicates a main sequence of actions.
Indicates a subsequence of actions in a main action. An arrow
accompanying the number shows the direction of movement.
1
Slide the latches on the sides of the computer
halfway toward the front; then open the liquid crystal
display (LCD).
2
Slide the same two latches forward again all the way
toward the front; then raise the keyboard.
Some pressure might be needed to slide these latches if they
are tight.
3
Install the battery pack into the middle compartment
and firmly press it in to make sure of the electrical
connection; then close the keyboard.
Sliding the latches forward while closing the keyboard makes it
easier to close the keyboard.
CAUTION:
The battery pack provided with your computer contains a
small amount of harmful substances. To avoid possible
injury:
Do not touch the battery terminals to any metal
objects.
Keep the battery pack away from fire.
Do not soak the battery pack in water or expose it to
rain.
Do not attempt to disassemble the battery pack.
Avoid mechanical shocks to the battery.
Always use battery packs recommended by IBM.
Keep the battery pack away from children.
6IBM ThinkPad 755CX User's Guide
Getting Started
RightSideView
1
2
2
1
2
1
3
2
1
Chapter 1. Getting Started7
3
Getting Started
4
Connect the AC Adapter as shown.
5
Position the speaker volume control to “3.”
6
Push and release the power switch to turn on the
computer.
The power switch automatically returns to its original position
after you push and release it.
7
Position the LCD so that it is convenient for viewing;
then position the brightness (
8
After a single beep, one of the following screens
appears, confirming that the system is operating
correctly.
(In some countries, the demonstration program runs
automatically and its associated screen appears.) If any other
screen appears, see “Screen Messages” on page 206.
An Operating System screen
If you purchased a computer with a preinstalled
operating system, the startup screen of the
operating system appears. (The screen shown is
an example of an operating system screen.)
Install your application programs by following
the instructions in the documentation that
came with the programs.
This screen instructs you to set the initial date and
time.
Note: For the 755CX SVGA model, the screen
image might look smaller than this sample.
To set the date and time, see “Using
Easy-Setup” on page 42.
Date and Time
1995
Year
23:59:59
Congratulations!
You have successfully completed the basic setup of your computer!
) as shown.
menu
.03.31
Month Day
Hour Month Second
8IBM ThinkPad 755CX User's Guide
5
Getting Started
4
1
3
2
6
7
Chapter 1. Getting Started9
Getting Started
10IBM ThinkPad 755CX User's Guide
Chapter 2.Getting Familiar with Your Computer
This chapter provides general information about your computer.
Locations and Functions ....................... 12