Juniper Systems Allegro CE User Manual
Allegro
OWNER'S MANUAL
CE
™
Manual Part # 13076-04
Release Date: September 2003
Editor: Richard Timothy
Page-ii
Table of Contents
Chapter 1
Introduction
Welcome............................................................................... 1-3
Allegro CE Overview......................................................... 1-4
Quick Start Guide ...............................................................1-6
Chapter 2
Hardware Components
Case Design ......................................................................... 2-3
Keyboard ............................................................................. 2-5
Display ............................................................................... 2-11
Systems Tray Indicators................................................... 2-14
Batteries.............................................................................. 2-19
Communication Ports ......................................................2-34
USB/Power Dock ............................................................. 2-36
PC Card .............................................................................. 2-39
Expansion Pods ................................................................ 2-41
Chapter 3
Memory Configuration and Data Storage
Options
Internal Memory ................................................................. 3-3
Program and Data Storage Options .................................3-4
Page-iii
Chapter 4
Windows CE Operating System
Windows CE Overview ..................................................... 4-3
Starting Windows CE ................................................... 4-3
Display Touchscreen .................................................... 4-4
Windows CE Programs................................................4-6
Desktop .......................................................................... 4-7
Special Functions ..........................................................4-9
Control Panel............................................................... 4-10
Windows CE 3.0 Control Panel ................................ 4-10
Windows CE .NET Control Panel ............................ 4-25
CE .NET Viewers ........................................................ 4-46
Microsoft Image Viewer ...................................... 4-46
Microsoft PDF Viewer.......................................... 4-59
Microsoft Word Viewer ....................................... 4-62
ActiveSync Transfer Program ......................................... 4-67
Downloading ActiveSync from the Internet ........... 4-68
Installing ActiveSync.................................................. 4-69
Establishing a First Time ActiveSync Connection .4-70
ActiveSync COM 1 or 2 Connections .................4-70
ActiveSync IrDA Infrared Connections.............. 4-74
ActiveSync USB Connection................................ 4-75
Unsuccessful Connection .................................... 4-77
Establishing Additional ActiveSync Connections . 4-77
New Partnership Set Up ............................................ 4-79
USB MultiSync ............................................................ 4-91
USB MultiSync Connections ..................................... 4-95
Transferring Files........................................................ 4-99
Windows Explorer.......................................................... 4-103
Storing Files and Programs ...........................................4-105
System Save/Restore Utilities ......................................4-108
Application Command Bars ......................................... 4-112
PTab Spreadsheet Program ........................................... 4-114
Page-iv
Pocket Word/WordPad................................................. 4-140
Internet Explorer and Inbox .......................................... 4-141
Calculator Program ........................................................ 4-144
Terminal Program........................................................... 4-145
Chapter 5
Technical Reference
Specifications....................................................................... 5-3
Communication Cable Schematic .................................... 5-7
Chapter 6
Software Developer’s Guide for Allegro
CE 3.0 and CE .NET
CE 3.0 Software Development Tools ............................... 6-3
CE .NET Software Development Tools ...........................6-4
Software Development Programming Tips .................... 6-7
Options for Program and File Storage ............................ 6-9
Power Management ......................................................... 6-10
Windows CE References ................................................. 6-11
Chapter 7
FCC Information, Warranty,
and Software License Agreement
FCC Information ................................................................. 7-3
Warranties and Repair Information .................................7-4
Software License Agreement............................................. 7-7
Manufacture Agreement.............................................. 7-7
Microsoft End User License Agreement.................... 7-8
Page-v
Chapter 8
Expansion Pods
Expansion Pod .................................................................... 8-3
GPS Expansion Pod............................................................ 8-4
Bar Code Expansion Pod................................................. 8-11
802.11b Expansion Pod .................................................... 8-29
Bar Code/802.11b Expansion Pod ................................. 8-37
Index
Page-vi
Chapter 1
Introduction
Welcome
Allegro Overview
Quick Start Guide
Page 1-2 Introduction
Welcome
The Allegro CE is a rugged, waterproof Field PC built for long-term
field use. Intel’s. StrongARM 206 MHz processor provides
outstanding speed and performance. The 1/4 VGA display and nonglare touchscreen provides excellent visibility. The ergonomic,
lightweight, balanced design makes it easy to carry and use in the
field for extended periods. The Allegro CE comes with the Windows
CE operating system. It also features solid state data storage so that
your data are secure, even without power backup. Data are handkeyed on the keyboard or entered directly via instruments. Expansion
pods provide sensor integration. A user-accessible PC card slot
provides additional storage and I/O capability.
This manual contains the information you need for using and caring
for your Allegro CE. The manual covers the hardware that either
comes with your Allegro, or optional hardware that is available for
your Allegro. Additional chapters cover storage options, the
operating system, and software development for your Allegro.
This manual also contains indepth instructions for all of our
expansions pods. These include:
GPS Pod
Barcode Pod
802.11b Pod
Barcode/802.11b Pod (combination pod)
You have the option of upgrading the Windows CE 3.0 operating
system to Windows CE .NET. This upgrade is available through your
Allegro reseller. The Allegro Owner’s Manual addresses the changes
and additions that result in this operating systems upgrade,
specifically in the Control Panel and Developers Guide sections.
If you have any questions or comments about the Allegro CE after
reviewing this manual, please feel free to contact our Technical
Support department at (435) 753-1881.
Introduction Page 1-3
Allegro CE Overview
▲▲
▲
Features
▲▲
The standard features of the Allegro CE are listed below. These
features are described in detail throughout this manual. A complete
list of specifications is in the Technical Reference section.
❏ Operating System: Windows CE 3.0
❏ Processor: 206 MHz Intel StrongArm
❏ Memory: 32 M RAM with options for 64 M and 128 M
❏ Data and Program Storage: 32 M Solid State Storage on system
motherboard with larger options
❏ PC Card Slot: User-accessible for ATA, Compact Flash and other
Type I or II 3V/5V PC cards, modem, wireless networking cards, or
other accessory cards
❏ Case: Rugged, waterproof, easy to hold, and lightweight
❏ Display: Large 4.1” diagonal, 1/4 VGA display, 320 wide x 240
high pixels, anti-reflective, equipped with a backlight (brightness
adjustable) and heater for cold weather operation
❏ Touchscreen: Pressure sensitive with keyboard accessible disable
touchscreen function for use in rainstorms and in heavy brush
❏ Keyboard: Includes all printable ASCII characters, 12 function
keys, centrally located number keys, and special coatings to
prevent the characters from rubbing off
❏ Keyboard Bezel: Protects keys from tearing; removable for cleaning
keyboard
❏ Power: NiMH battery pack lasts an average of 12 to 20 hours,
depending on the application
❏ Communication Ports: Two sealed 9-pin D serial ports, one high
and one low speed infrared IrDA port, and one external USB port
❏ Software: Windows CE Software Suite
❏ Sound: Screen taps and key beeps, programmable to associate
beeps with events. Volume is adjustable
❏ System Tray Indicators: Remaining battery status, charging status,
data storage activity, PC card activity, caps lock on, touchscreen
disable, and external power input
❏ File Synchronization between the Allegro and desktop PC
Page 1-4 Introduction
▲ ▲
▲ Standard Accessories
▲ ▲
The Allegro comes with the following accessories:
- Allegro CE Utilities CD-ROM with the Desktop PC Setup
Programs, Backups of Software Suite programs, and an
Electronic Owner's Manual
- NiMH Battery Pack
- Universal AC Adapter
- Communication Cable
- Two Mini and One Full Size Stylus
- Carrying Straps
- Hand Straps
▲▲
▲
Optional Accessories and Expansion Pods
▲▲
The accessories listed below are optional. Contact our Sales
Department if you are interested in any of the following items.
- USB/Power Dock
- Hardcopy of Owner’s Manual
- Alkaline Battery Holder
- Vehicle Power Adapter
- External Battery Charger
- Bar Code Wands and Accessories
- Digital Calipers
- ATA Flash Cards
- IrDA Adapters
- Printer Adapters
- Application Development Software
- Replacement Accessories
- ActiveSync CD-ROM
Expansion Pods
- GPS Expansion Pod
- Bar Code Expansion Pod
- 802.11b Expansion Pod
- Bar Code/802.11b Expansion Pod
Introduction Page 1-5
Quick Start Guide
A Quick Start Guide is included with the Allegro. It offers nine basic
and initial steps to get the Allegro charged and ready to take out into
the field. The instructions on the guide should be done first, before
you begin using the Allegro.
If the Quick Start Guide is disgarded or misplaced after setting up the
Allegro and you discover you need the guide again, you can access a
copy of it from the Allegro CD.
To Access the Quick Start Guide from the Allegro CD complete the
following steps:
1) Place the Allegro CD into the desktop PC’s CD-ROM drive. The
following splash page appears:
2) Click on the Browse CD option. The CD opens up in a W indows
Explorer program displaying the contents of the CD.
3) Double-click on the Quick Start Guide file to open in Acrobat
Reader.
4) Read and/or print the Quick Start Guide.
Page 1-6 Introduction
Chapter 2
Hardware
Components
Case Design
Keyboard
Display
System Tray Indicators
Batteries
Communication Ports
USB / Power Dock
PC Card Slot
Sound Generator
Expansion Pods
Page 2-2 Hardware Features
Case Design
▲▲
▲
Case Features
▲▲
The case has the following features:
❏ The polycarbonate ABS material is rugged, shock resistant, and
formulated to resist damage from chemicals.
❏ The ergonomic shape and smooth edges make
it easy to hold, maximizing comfort and
usability in the field.
❏ The weight distribution is balanced.
❏ There are three gaskets used to seal the case
from water and dust:
- between the top and bottom case halves
- around the battery compartment
- around the PC card slot compartment
In most circumstances, these gaskets are not
field replaceable. Contact our Service
Department if a gasket needs to be replaced.
❏ There are two doors: one for the battery compartment and one for
the PC card slot. These doors are user-replaceable. Contact our
Sales Department for ordering information.
PC Card Slot
Battery Compartment
Hardware Features Page 2-3
▲▲
▲
Hand Strap and Shoulder Strap
▲▲
There are four metal cleats, one on each corner of the Allegro CE case.
Each cleat has two metal rings that are used to attach the hand strap
and shoulder strap onto the Allegro.
The straps can be attached in numerous configurations, depending
on your preference and whether you are right-handed or left-handed.
The shoulder strap can be used as a neck strap for hands-free
operation. The tension on the hand strap is adjustable.
Page 2-4 Hardware Features
Keyboard
▲▲
▲
Keyboard Features
▲▲
The keyboard on the Allegro CE is designed to maximize data entry
efficiency and to withstand rugged, wet conditions.
❏ Careful planning went into the placement, size, and space between
keys to increase efficiency and ease of use.
❏ The number keys are large and placed in the center of the Allegro
for easy access from either side.
❏ Some keys have standard functions as well as special functions
accessed with the GOLD and BLUE shift keys.
❏ Five function keys are located below the display. With the use of
the GOLD and BLUE shift keys, twelve function keys are available.
❏ Two special coatings prevent the key labels from rubbing off after
extended use.
❏ The keyboard bezel helps protect the keys from tearing. It is
removable for cleaning purposes.
Hardware Features Page 2-5
▲▲
▲
Special Keys and Key Sequences
▲▲
The standard keyboard letters, numbers, and functions are printed in
dark brown on the off-white keys and in off-white on the dark brown
keys. These standard options are operational unless a GOLD or BLUE
shift key is pressed.
Blue Shift Key Usage
To access the keyboard characters printed in blue, press and release
the BLUE shift key followed by the key with the desired blue-lettered
character. To activate several blue-lettered keys before returning to
standard mode, continue to hold the BLUE shift key down while you
press the desired keys. Once the BLUE shift key is released, the
keyboard reverts back to the standard mode.
Gold Shift Key Usage
To access the gold shift key options, press and release the GOLD shift
key followed by the key with the desired gold symbol. To activate
several gold-lettered options before returning to standard mode,
continue to hold the GOLD shift key down while you press the
desired keys. Once the GOLD shift key is released, the keyboard
reverts back to the standard mode.
Circular Key Usage
The circular key located in the center of the keyboard has two
functions:
1) Standard (no shift keys): Up, Down, Right, and Left arrow keys
2) BLUE shifted functions: Page Up, Page Down, Home, and End
Page 2-6 Hardware Features
Shifted Options
The shifted options and the associated key sequences are listed
below.
Option Key Sequence
Function keys F6, F7, F8, F9 BLUE key + desired
and F10 function key
Function keys F11 and F12 GOLD key + desired
function key
Enable/Disable touchscreen BLUE key + TS
View Windows CE Start BLUE key + Start
Menu
Page up BLUE key + PgUp
Page down BLUE key + PgDn
End BLUE key + End
Home BLUE key + Home
Toggle caps lock on and off BLUE key + CapLk
Toggle display backlight GOLD key + F3 (see
gold light bulb symbol
above function key)
Display Contrast Lighten GOLD key + F4 (see
gold symbol above
function key)
Display Contrast Darken GOLD key + F5 (see
gold symbol above
function key)
Perform a reset On/Off (hold down for
eight seconds)
Hardware Features Page 2-7
Keyboard Options
The following keys and key sequences are functional in Windows CE.
On/Off (Reset)
This key is used to turn the Allegro on and off. The ridge around the
key helps prevent the Allegro from being accidently turned on
without your knowledge (while it is in a backpack, for example).
A reset is performed by holding down the On/Off key for about eight
seconds. Release the key when the reset process begins.
Contrast Keys
+
To make the display darker, press the GOLD key and the F5 key. To
make the display lighter, press the GOLD key and the F4 key.
Backlight On/Off
+
The backlight is toggled on and off by pressing the GOLD key and the
F3 key.
Tab, Forward and Backward
The tab keys are used primarily for cursor movement between fields.
Touchscreen Disable/Enable
+
The touchscreen key allows you to disable and enable the
touchscreen. This feature allows you to wipe off the screen without
inadvertently making selections on the screen. Press the BLUE shift
key and the TS key to disable the screen. A system tray icon will
appear showing that the touch screen has been disabled. Once the
screen has been cleaned, use the same key sequence to enable the
touchscreen. (For instructions on how to clean the screen, refer to
Display, Touchscreen later in this section.)
Page 2-8 Hardware Features
Task Manager
Press the Task Manager key to view all of the programs that are
currently running. Select which program you want to be in by using
the up and down arrow keys to highlight the desired program and
pressing ENTER.
Start Menu
+
Press the BLUE shift key and the <Start> key to view the Windows CE
Start Menu. Use the arrow keys to move up and down the menu. Press
the ENTER key to make your selection.
The Task Manager and Start Menu functions have been provided to
speed up operation. You do not have to use the touchscreen and
stylus to bring up the Start Menu or to change tasks. These keys are
also handy when the Taskbar has been hidden.
Right Mouse Click
Press the Alt key and touch the screen with a stylus to achieve a right
mouse click. In many Windows CE programs, when you right click on
an item a menu is displayed listing functions and options that
pertain to the item.
Hardware Features Page 2-9
▲▲
▲
Cleaning the Keyboard
▲▲
Dirt and debris can get underneath the keyboard bezel. To clean, use
a coin (do not use a screwdriver) to pull the bezel up at the recess
located at the bottom of the keyboard and remove it. We recommend
that you use warm water, mild detergent, and a toothbrush to clean
the keyboard or simply brush it out. The Allegro remains sealed
during this process. (Do not direct a high pressure stream of water at
the keyboard to clean it. This action could break the seal, causing
water to get inside the Allegro.)
Reattach the bezel by carefully inserting the top ridge under the
function keys and lowering the bezel down flat onto the case. Press
down along the sides while aligning the keys through the holes.
❖ Note: After you reattach the bezel, check each key to make sure it is
completely free from the bezel. If any part of a key is caught underneath the
bezel, you may not be able to turn the Allegro on or you may hear a
continuous string of beeps.
Page 2-10 Hardware Features
Display
The Allegro CE has a high-contrast liquid crystal display. The active
viewing area is 3.3" wide x 2.5" high. The display resolution is 320 x
240 pixels. The display is shock-mounted and sealed.
Display Features:
- Contrast: The display contrast can be lightened or darkened and
automatically adjusts the contrast to compensate for temperature.
- Heater: The display heater allows you to use the Allegro in
temperatures below freezing.
- Backlight: The backlight enhances visibility in low-light
conditions. The brightness of the backlight is adjustable.
- Position: The display is slightly tilted up to reduce glare and
enhance visibility.
- Touchscreen: A 1/4 VGA display touchscreen with an anti-reflective
coating to eliminate reflective glare and is used to make selections
and enter data in Windows CE.
Hardware Features Page 2-11
▲ ▲
▲ Adjusting the Display
▲ ▲
The display features can be enabled, disabled, or controlled through
the Control Panel (see Chapter 4). Some display features can be
adjusted using the special key sequences shown below:
Display Function Key Sequence
Increase Contrast GOLD + F5
Decrease Contrast GOLD + F4
Backlight Toggle GOLD + F3
On and Off
Backlight
The display backlight is used to enhance visibility in low-light
conditions in the field. The backlight can enhance visibility indoors.
The brightness of the display backlight is adjustable from dim to
bright (the default). This adjustment is made from the Control
Panel|Display Properties|Backlight.
Contrast and Automatic Temperature Compensation
Once you have set the contrast, you seldom need to readjust it.
▲▲
▲ Touchscreen
▲▲
The Allegro display has a touchscreen used to activate programs and
functions. The touchscreen can be operated with a stylus, finger, or
other pointed object (avoid using sharp objects that may scratch the
screen). Three styli are provided: two mini styli that snap into a
holding bay built into the top of the case and a pen-size stylus. For
more details on how to use the touchscreen, refer to Chapter 4,
Windows CE Operating System, Display Touchscreen.
Page 2-12 Hardware Features
Cleaning the Touchscreen
Disable the touchscreen before you wipe it off or clean it to avoid
inadvertently making selections on the screen (see instructions
below). Use a clean cotton cloth to gently wipe off the screen. Do not
use anything abrasive that could scratch the screen (including tissues
and paper towels).
❖ Note: petroleum-based cleaners and solvents should not be used. They can
damage polycarbonate.
Touchscreen Disable/Enable Key
+
The touchscreen key disables and enables the touchscreen. Press the
BLUE shift key and the TS key to disable the screen. Once the screen
has been cleaned, use the same key sequence to enable the
touchscreen.
Hardware Features Page 2-13
System Tray Indicators
System tray indicators specify applications that are running on your
computer. The Allegro CE system tray indicators are located in the
bottom right corner system tray.
These system tray indicators are active while the Allegro is running
specific tasks. These indicators provide you with the following
information:
System Tray Indicator
Indicators Description
Remaining Battery Charge Status: shows the
percent of charge remaining in the batteries
External Power Input: indicates that you are
connected to an external power source and
not drawing power from the internal
batteries
Charging Indicator: appears in the system
tray while the rechargeable batteries are
being charged up
Data Storage Activity: appears when data
are being read from or written to the solid
state disk
PC Card Activity: indicates that the
application program is accessing the PC
card (do not remove the card when this icon
is on)
Caps Lock On: appears when the all capital
letters option is activated
Touchscreen Disable: appears when the
touchscreen is disabled for cleaning
purposes, or for use in heavy rain storms.
PC Connection: appears when there is an
active connection between the Allegro and
the desktop PC.
Page 2-14 Hardware Features
▲ ▲
▲ Making Space in the System Tray
▲ ▲
The system tray is a feature limited by the amount of space it has to
show which features are currently active. The following are ways of
freeing up space in the system tray to make room for the system tray
indicators:
Clock Removal
AM / PM Removal
Clock Removal
To remove the clock from the system tray, complete the following
steps:
1) Select Start|Settings|Taskbar on the Allegr o and the following
screen appears:
2) T ap on the check mark next to the Show Clock option to deselect
this option and tap on OK. The clock is now removed from the
system tray .
System tray with clock:
System T ray without clock:
Hardware Features Page 2-15
AM / PM Removal
You may have need for a clock on the Allegro desktop, but to conserve
on the amount of space it takes up in the system tray you can remove
the AM/PM setting after the clock. This function will shift the time
into military time (2:00 PM = 14:00). To do this complete the following
steps:
1) Select Start|Settings|Control Panel, the following screen will
appear:
2) Double tap on the Regional Settings icon:
Page 2-16 Hardware Features
The following screen appears:
3) T ap on the arrow next to the tabs to get them to scr oll over until the
Time tab appears and tap on that, the following scr een appears:
Hardware Features Page 2-17
4) T ap on the down arr ow in the Time style in the Appearance box and
select the H:mm:ss or HH:mm:ss option:
5) T ap on OK.
The clock in the system tray no longer has the AM/PM sign next to
the clock:
Page 2-18 Hardware Features
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