NEC T3415 User Manual

Proprietary Notice and Liability Disclaimer

The information disclosed in this document, including all designs and related materials, is the valuable property of NEC Computer Systems Division, Packard Bell NEC, Inc. (hereinafter “NEC CSD”) and/or its licensors. NEC CSD and/or its licensors, as appropriate, reserve all patent, copyright and other proprietary rights to this document, including all design, manufacturing, reproduction, use, and sales rights thereto, except to the extent said rights are expressly granted to others.

The NEC CSD product(s) discussed in this document are warranted in accordance with the terms of the Warranty Statement accompanying each product. However, actual performance of each such product is dependent upon factors such as system configuration, customer data, and operator control. Since implementation by customers of each product may vary, the suitability of specific product configurations and applications must be determined by the customer and is not warranted by NEC CSD.

To allow for design and specification improvements, the information in this document is subject to change at any time, without notice. Reproduction of this document or portions thereof without prior written approval of NEC CSD is prohibited.

NEC and PowerMate are registered trademarks of NEC Corporation, used under license.

All other product, brand, or trade names used in this publication are the trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective trademark owners.

First Printing — August 1999

Copyright 1999

NEC Computer Systems Division

6000 Florin-Perkins Road

Sacramento, CA 95828-1037

All Rights Reserved

Contents

Using This Guide

Text Conventions .............................................................................	xi
Related Documents .........................................................................	xii

1 Reviewing System Features

Front Features ...............................................................................	1-2
System Controls and Lamps ..................................................	1-3
Diskette Drive A....................................................................	1-4
Universal Serial Bus Port.......................................................	1-4
CD-ROM Drive.....................................................................	1-5
DVD-ROM Drive..................................................................	1-5
Tape Backup Unit..................................................................	1-5
Zip Drive...............................................................................	1-6
PC Card Adapter ...................................................................	1-6
LS-120 SuperDisk Drive .......................................................	1-6
Rear Features ................................................................................	1-7
External Connectors ..............................................................	1-8
Power Supply Features .........................................................	1-10
Inside Features .............................................................................	1-10
System Board .......................................................................	1-11
Network Board.....................................................................	1-12
Modem Board ......................................................................	1-12
Storage Device Support ........................................................	1-12
Chassis ........................................................................................	1-12
Speakers ......................................................................................	1-13
System Features ...........................................................................	1-13
Hardware..............................................................................	1-13
Software...............................................................................	1-14
Preloaded Operating System .........................................	1-14
NEC OS Restore CD.....................................................	1-15
NEC Application and Driver CD...................................	1-15
Security ........................................................................	1-16

Contents iii

2 Setting Up the System

Cable Connections ........................................................................	2-2
Startup ..........................................................................................	2-3
Shutdown......................................................................................	2-4
Power-Saving Operation ...............................................................	2-5
System Care..................................................................................	2-6
Protecting Your System From Damage ..................................	2-6
Keeping Your System in Good Condition ..............................	2-8
Moving or Shipping Your System..........................................	2-9
More Information.........................................................................	2-10

3 Configuring the System

Configuration Tools and Utilities ..................................................	3-2
BIOS Setup Utility........................................................................	3-5
How to Start BIOS Setup.......................................................	3-6
How to Use BIOS Setup ........................................................	3-7
Main Menu............................................................................	3-7
Advanced Menu ...................................................................	3-11
Security Menu ......................................................................	3-18
Exit Menu ............................................................................	3-19
FLASH Utility .............................................................................	3-20
NEC OS Restore CD....................................................................	3-21
Introducing OS Restore Options ...........................................	3-21
Choosing a Restore Program.................................................	3-21
Launching the NEC OS Restore CD .....................................	3-22
Auto Rebuild and Restore.....................................................	3-24
Custom Rebuild and Restore.................................................	3-26
Fixing the Operating System.................................................	3-29
NEC Application and Driver CD..................................................	3-31
Launching the Application and Driver CD ............................	3-31
Installing Software ...............................................................	3-32
NEC Help Center .........................................................................	3-33
Installing the NEC Help Center ............................................	3-33
Uninstalling the NEC Help Center ........................................	3-34
Resolutions for NEC VistaScan USB Monitors ............................	3-34

iv Contents

System Board Jumper Settings .....................................................	3-35
Processor Jumper Settings ....................................................	3-37
Clear CMOS/Password.........................................................	3-38
Power On Mode ...................................................................	3-40

4 Installing Options

General Rules ...............................................................................	4-2
Safety Precautions.........................................................................	4-3
System Unit Covers ......................................................................	4-4
Removing the Left Side Cover...............................................	4-5
Replacing the Left Side Cover ...............................................	4-7
Removing the Right Side Cover.............................................	4-9
Replacing the Right Side Cover ............................................	4-11
System Board Options..................................................................	4-12
Memory Upgrade .................................................................	4-13
Checking System Memory ............................................	4-15
Removing a DIMM.......................................................	4-16
Installing a DIMM ........................................................	4-17
Processor Upgrade................................................................	4-19
Removing a Celeron or Pentium III Processor ...............	4-20
Installing a Celeron or Pentium III Upgrade Processor ..	4-22
Removing the Pentium II Processor...............................	4-24
Installing the Pentium II Upgrade Processor ..................	4-26
Expansion Boards ........................................................................	4-29
Locating Expansion Slots and Connectors ............................	4-30
Installing an Expansion Board ..............................................	4-31
Removing an Expansion Board.............................................	4-33
AGP Board ..................................................................................	4-33
Removing the AGP Graphics Board .....................................	4-33
Installing the AGP Graphics Board .......................................	4-34
Data Storage Devices ...................................................................	4-35
Locating Device Bays...........................................................	4-35
Preparing the Device ............................................................	4-37
Connecting Device Cables ....................................................	4-37
Diskette Drive Signal Cable ..........................................	4-40
IDE Signal Cables.........................................................	4-41
System Power Cables....................................................	4-41

Contents v

Cabling Storage Devices.......................................................	4-41
IDE Drive Cabling ........................................................	4-42
Diskette Drive Cabling..................................................	4-43
PC Card Adapter Cabling..............................................	4-43
Network Board Wake-On LAN Cabling........................	4-44
Installing Storage Devices ....................................................	4-45
Removing the Front Panel .............................................	4-45
Replacing the Front Panel .............................................	4-48
Installing a 3 1/2-Inch Hard Drive .................................	4-48
Installing a 5 1/4-Inch Device........................................	4-51

5 Solving System Problems

Solutions to Common Problems ....................................................	5-2
System Problems ...................................................................	5-2
Diskette Drive Problems ........................................................	5-4
Monitor Problems..................................................................	5-5
Keyboard/Mouse Problems....................................................	5-6
CD-ROM Drive Problems .....................................................	5-7
Speaker Problems ..................................................................	5-8
How to Clean the Mouse...............................................................	5-9
Battery Replacement ....................................................................	5-11
How to Get Help ..........................................................................	5-14
Help From Your Company ...................................................	5-14
Help From Your NEC CSD Dealer .......................................	5-14
Help From NEC CSD Technical Support Center...................	5-15
NEC CSD Warranty/Non-Warranty Repair Service ..............	5-16

6 Getting Services and Support

NEC CSD Website........................................................................	6-2
NEC CSD FTP Site.......................................................................	6-3
Email/Fax Technical Support Service............................................	6-3
NEC CSD Bulletin Board System .................................................	6-4
NEC CSD Technical Support Services ..........................................	6-7

vi Contents

A Setting Up a Healthy Work Environment

Making Your Computer Work for You..........................................	A-2
Arrange Your Equipment ..............................................................	A-4
Adjust Your Chair.........................................................................	A-5
Adjust Your Input Devices ............................................................	A-7
Adjust Your Monitor.....................................................................	A-9
Vary Your Workday....................................................................	A-11
Pre-existing Conditions and Psychosocial Factors .......................	A-12
Checking Your Comfort: How Do You Measure Up?..................	A-13
Checking Your Chair...........................................................	A-13
Checking Your Keyboard ....................................................	A-13
Checking Your Mouse.........................................................	A-13
Checking Your Monitor.......................................................	A-13
Checking You .....................................................................	A-14

B System Specifications

System Processor ..........................................................................	B-2
Processor Support..................................................................	B-2
Secondary Cache ...................................................................	B-3
Processor Socket ...................................................................	B-3
Random Access Memory (RAM) ..................................................	B-3
Cache Memory .............................................................................	B-3
Read Only Memory (ROM) ..........................................................	B-3
Calendar Clock .............................................................................	B-4
Input/Output (I/O) Features ...........................................................	B-4
Video Memory..............................................................................	B-5
Sound System ...............................................................................	B-6
Fax/Modem Board ........................................................................	B-6
Peripherals ....................................................................................	B-6
Network Board......................................................................	B-6
AGP Graphics Board .............................................................	B-7
Diskette Drive .......................................................................	B-7
Hard Drive ............................................................................	B-8

Contents vii

CD-ROM Drive.....................................................................	B-8
DVD-ROM Drive..................................................................	B-8
PC Card Adapter ...................................................................	B-9
Zip Drive...............................................................................	B-9
Tape Backup Unit..................................................................	B-9
Speakers..............................................................................	B-10
Dimensions .................................................................................	B-10
System Unit.........................................................................	B-10
Keyboard.............................................................................	B-10
Power .........................................................................................	B-10
Operating Environment ...............................................................	B-10
Compliance.................................................................................	B-11

Index

viii Contents

Using This Guide

The PowerMate VT 300 Series User’s Guide provides a comprehensive reference to information about your computer.

The guide contains the following information:

TChapter 1, Reviewing System Features, provides a look at the front, rear, internal, and peripheral features of the system. It also gives a summary of the system’s hardware, software, and security features.

The chapter includes a quick-reference chart for finding information described more fully later in the document.

TChapter 2, Setting Up the System, explains how to set up, start up, and shut down the system. It also provides information on installing applications, and tips on caring for the system.

TChapter 3, Configuring the System, describes how to use the software utilities shipped with your system, including the BIOS Setup Utility, the NEC OS Restore CD, and the NEC Application and Driver CD. It also provides information for setting system board jumpers.

TChapter 4, Installing Options, provides detailed installation procedures for system upgrades and options.

TChapter 5, Solving System Problems, contains troubleshooting tips for solving simple problems and describes how to find help when you cannot solve a problem yourself.

Using This Guide ix

TChapter 6, Getting Services and Support, describes the services available to you for information and help, and describes how to access the services.

TAppendix A, Setting Up a Healthy Work Environment, contains guidelines to help you use your computer productively and safely. This appendix also instructs you on how to set up and use your computer to reduce your risk of developing nerve, muscle, or tendon disorders.

! WARNING

Prolonged or improper use of a computer workstation may pose a risk of serious injury. To reduce your risk of injury, set up and use your computer in the manner described in Appendix A, Setting Up a Healthy Work Environment.

TAppendix B, System Specifications, provides a technical description of your computer and its components.

x Using This Guide

Text Conventions

This guide uses the following text conventions.

TWarnings, cautions, and notes have the following meanings:

! WARNING

Warnings alert you to situations that could result in serious personal injury or loss of life.

! CAUTION

Cautions indicate situations that can damage the hardware or software.

Note: Notes give important information about the material being described.

TNames of keyboard keys are printed as they appear on the keyboard, for example, Ctrl, Alt, or Enter.

TText or keystrokes that you enter appear in boldface type. For example, type abc123 and press Enter.

TFile names are printed in uppercase letters. For example, AUTOEXEC.BAT.

Using This Guide xi

Related Documents

In addition to this guide, the following printed documentation ships with your computer.

TNEC PowerMate VT 300i Series Quick Setup/Quick Reference

The Quick Setup shows how to quickly get the system connected and powered on.

The Quick Reference briefly describes the documentation,

NEC CSD tools and utilities, software applications, and services available with the NEC PowerMate® VT 300 Series computer.

THow Does Your Workplace Measure Up?

This brochure provides information for setting up and using the computer productively and safely. Information includes guidelines to reduce the risk of injury associated with using a computer.

TNEC PowerMate VT 300 Series Release Notes

Release Notes provide additional information about the computer that was not available at the time the user’s guide was printed.

xii Using This Guide

Your system comes with the following online documentation on the NEC Application and Driver CD.

TNEC Help Center

The NEC Help Center is an online guide to PowerMate computers. It provides information about your system under the following topics: System Tour, System Information, System Upgrades, Service and Support, and Reference.

THealthy Environment

This is an online help file that complements the “How Does Your Workplace Measure Up?” brochure.

In addition, service and reference manuals are available on the Internet at the Service and Support area of the NEC CSD website (see Chapter 6 for access information).

Using This Guide xiii

1

Reviewing System

Features

TFront Features

TRear Features

TInside Features

TSpeakers

TSystem Features

! WARNING

Prolonged or improper use of a computer workstation may pose a risk of serious injury. To reduce your risk of injury, set up and use the computer in the manner described in Appendix A, Setting Up a Healthy Work Environment.

This chapter highlights system hardware and software, and describes the security features of the system.

Front Features

The following figure shows the features on the front of the system. A brief description follows the figure.

Front features

A – CD-ROM Drive	D – Power/Sleep Lamp
B – Diskette Drive	E – Hard Drive Lamp
C – Power/Sleep Button	F – USB Port

1-2 Reviewing System Features

System Controls and Lamps

System controls let you select specific system operations. Lamps let you know the status of system operation. The following describes the controls and lamps. The previous figure shows the controls and lamps on the front of the system.

TPower/Sleep button

Press this button to turn on system power. To turn off power, press the button and hold in place until the system powers down (approximately three to four seconds).

Press and immediately release the power/sleep button to suspend system operation when you plan to be away from your computer for a short time. This places the system in a power saving mode. If you have a VESA-compliant monitor, your monitor also goes into a power-saving mode.

Press any key or move your mouse to resume system operation at the point where you stopped it.

An amber system unit power lamp indicates that the system is in a power-saving mode.

TPower/Sleep lamp

The power/sleep lamp indicates whether system power is on or off. It also lets you know if the system is operating in a power-saving mode.

A steady green lamp indicates that the power is on to all system components. An amber lamp indicates that the system is in Sleep mode with full-power reduction.

Reviewing System Features 1-3

THard drive lamp

A lit lamp indicates that the hard drive is active. The green lamp tells you that the hard drive is reading or writing data.

! CAUTION

Do not turn off the system unless absolutely necessary while the hard drive lamp is lit. To do so can damage your hard drive or data.

Diskette Drive A

Use diskette drive A to copy data files to and from a diskette. You can also use it as a bootable drive for loading and starting programs from a diskette.

! CAUTION

To prevent damage to your diskette drive and data, do not turn off the system or remove a diskette while the diskette drive busy lamp is lit.

Universal Serial Bus Port

The universal serial bus (USB) port on the front of the system allows you to easily and conveniently add plug and play USB devices without opening up the system. You simply plug the USB device into the port. You can connect up to 127 devices including a mouse, monitor, keyboard, printer, scanner, speakers, and more. A second USB port is on the rear of the system.

1-4 Reviewing System Features

CD-ROM Drive

Some models come with a 32X Max or 40X Max variable speed CD-ROM drive. Use the CD-ROM drive to load and start programs from a compact disc (CD). You can also use the CD-ROM drive to play your audio CDs.

The CD-ROM drive operates at different speeds depending on whether the CD you are using contains data or music. This allows you to get your data faster and to see smoother animation and video.

DVD-ROM Drive

Some models come with a 4X or 6X digital video disc (DVD)-ROM drive (Windows 98 systems only). The drive offers many improvements over the standard CD-ROM technology, including superior video and audio playback, faster data access, and greater storage capacities.

The DVD-ROM drive uses DVD technology to read DVD discs as well as standard audio and video CDs.

Tape Backup Unit

Some models come with a tape backup unit. If your system has a tape backup unit, you can use it to quickly back up all or part of your system’s files to a high-capacity tape cartridge. Backup software helps you tailor the backup process to protect your files and applications. Files are compressed during the backup process to conserve space and to speed up the process.

Reviewing System Features 1-5

Zip Drive

Some models come with a Zip® drive. Use the Zip drive to back up work, archive old files, and transport your work. Store up to 100 MB of data on a 3 1/2-inch Zip disk.

PC Card Adapter

If your model has a PC card adapter, you can add PC cards to the system. A PC card is inserted into a PC card slot similar to inserting a diskette in a diskette drive.

Each type of PC card has a different function. With your PC card adapter, you can add a number of functions to your system with a variety of PC cards.

LS-120 SuperDisk Drive

Some models come with an LS-120 MB SuperDisk™ drive, in place of the 3 1/2-inch diskette drive. The drive offers highcapacity, removable data storage through use of SuperDisk diskettes that hold up to 120 MB of data. The SuperDisk drive is fully compatible with 1.44 MB diskettes and can read or write to the diskettes.

1-6 Reviewing System Features

Rear Features

On the rear of your computer, you’ll find external connectors, the power supply socket and voltage select switch, and expansion board slots. The following figure shows the features.

Rear features

A – Power Socket	I – Line In Jack
B – Voltage Selector Switch	J – Microphone In Jack
C – Mouse Port	K – Fan
D – Keyboard Port	L – Printer Port
E – USB Port	M – MIDI Port
F – Serial Port 1	N – VGA Monitor Connector
G – Serial Port 2	O – Expansion Slots
H – Line Out Jack

Reviewing System Features 1-7

External Connectors

External connectors let you attach peripheral devices, such as a monitor, keyboard, mouse, and printer to your system. Your system has the following external connectors.

TMouse port

Attach the mouse that comes with your computer to this port. The mouse port supports a PS/2-compatible mouse.

TKeyboard port

Attach the keyboard that comes with your computer to the keyboard port.

The keyboard port supports a PS/2® -compatible (personal system/2-compatible) 101-key or 104-key keyboard (in the U.S. and Canada) or a 102-key keyboard (in the United Kingdom and Germany) with a 6-pin mini DIN connector.

TVGA monitor connector

The system comes with an accelerated graphics port (AGP) graphics board. The external video graphics array

(VGA) connector on the AGP board supports an NEC MultiSync® monitor, NEC VistaScan™ monitor, or other VGA-compatible monitor with a 15-pin connector. Attach the signal cable from your monitor to the VGA connector.

TPrinter port

Use this port to connect a parallel printer with a 25-pin connector to the system.

TSerial ports 1 and 2 (COM1 and COM2)

Attach a serial device with a 9-pin connector to these serial ports. Serial devices include a pointing device, serial printer, or a modem.

TUniversal Serial Bus port

This port adds a USB connector at the rear of the system (see “Universal Serial Bus Port” earlier in this chapter).

1-8 Reviewing System Features

TAudio connectors

The following connectors come integrated on the system board (see the preceding figure for jack locations).

Microphone in jack

The microphone in jack lets you connect a microphone for recording audio information in your data system files.

Line in jack

The line in jack lets you connect a stereo audio device such as a stereo amplifier or a cassette or minidisc player for playback or recording.

Line out jack

The line out jack allows you to connect an amplified output device, such as powered speakers or headset, a stereo tape recorder, or an external amplifier for audio output.

TMIDI/Joystick connector

The MIDI/Joystick connector lets you attach a joystick to your system for use with games.

TFax/modem ports

Some models come with a V.90 rated 56-kilobytes per second (Kbps) fax/modem board. The fax/modem board allows the connection of a phone line to the computer for fax and data communications functions.

Dual fax/modem ports let you use a telephone line for the fax/modem and your telephone.

TLAN connector

Some models come with a network board. Use the RJ-45 compatible port on the board for connecting the system to an Ethernet local-area network (LAN).

Reviewing System Features 1-9

Power Supply Features

Your system has the following power supply features:

TPower socket

Connect your power cable to this socket.

TVoltage selector switch

Sets the voltage for your system to 115 volts or 220 volts.

! CAUTION

Set the switch correctly for the voltage in your area. Most wall outlets in the United States and Canada are 115 volts. Outlets in Europe, Australia, and Asia (except Taiwan) are

230 volts. Taiwan uses 115-volt outlets.

TPower supply fan

The power supply fan cools the power supply and other system components to keep them from overheating. Keep the area near the fan clear for proper ventilation.

Inside Features

See the following figure for the location of features within the system. Feature descriptions follow.

1-10 Reviewing System Features

Inside the system

A – Power Supply	E – Diskette Drive
B – System Board	F – AGP Board Connector
C – Expansion Slots	G – Hard Drive
D – Accessible Device Bays

System Board

The system processor, memory, audio subsystem, system battery, internal connectors, and external connectors are on the system board. For information on the external connectors, see “External Connectors” earlier in this chapter.

The system board supports a diskette drive and up to four IDE devices such as IDE hard drives, IDE CD-ROM drive, IDE DVD-ROM drive, and IDE Zip drive.

Internal connectors on the system board include:

Tprimary and secondary IDE connectors

Tdiskette drive connector

Tfront panel connectors for lamp, USB, and audio signals

Reviewing System Features 1-11

Tpower connectors

TAGP graphics board connector

Tthree PCI connectors

Tone ISA connector

Tadditional connectors include the CD Audio In, Modem In, Wake-On LAN, and fan.

Network Board

Some models come with a 3Com® 10/100Base-T Ethernet network board, an Intel® EtherExpress® Pro100 +10/100 Ethernet network board, or a GVC D110G 10/100 network board installed in a PCI slot.

Modem Board

Some models come with a Robotics® 56K Python V.90 ISA modem board or a Lucent V.90 Winmodem PCI board. Connect your telephone line to this board.

Storage Device Support

Five storage device bays accommodate up to three accessible devices and two internal hard drives.

Chassis

The NEC micro tower chassis conforms to the Intel ATX form factor specification. The chassis features the following:

Tstandardized chassis size and dimensions

Tstandardized system board size and dimensions

Tstandardized ATX 145 watt power supply.

1-12 Reviewing System Features

Speakers

If ordered, some systems come with two high-quality stereo speakers. One of the speakers connects to the line out jack at the rear of the system unit.

An AC adapter comes with the speakers. Install the AC adapter along with the speakers.

Adjust the speaker volume by using the volume control on the front of the system or on the right speaker. You can also use the Windows sound software. To bring up the Windows volume control, double click the speaker icon on the taskbar (next to the system clock). Use the software to balance the sound between the left and right speakers.

System Features

Your computer hardware and software deliver the performance and technologies you need for all your challenging tasks today and into the future.

Hardware

The PowerMate VT 300 Series includes the following hardware features:

TPC98 Compliance

All the hardware in the system has been certified by Microsoft® to be PC98 compliant.

TProcessor

The system comes with a Celeron® processor, Pentium® II processor, or Pentium III processor. Processor speed depends on system model. The processors are fast, powerful processors that lend themselves to computational, graphical, and networking tasks.

Reviewing System Features 1-13

TAudio on the System Board

The system board comes with an audio subsystem. The audio chipset gives you a surround sound system for threedimensional sound effects — much like a live performance. It also provides wavetable synthesis. (Wavetable synthesis uses actual recordings of real sound effects and musical instruments for a dynamic audio experience.)

TFlashable ROM BIOS

The system’s ROM BIOS features system setup configuration, Plug and Play support, and flash support for easy and economical BIOS upgrades.

TSystem Memory

Your computer comes with at least 32 MB of non-ECC synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM) and supports up to 512 MB.

TAGP Graphics Board

All models ship with an AGP graphics board. AGP enhances graphics performance, particularly for 3-D applications.

TPower Management Options

Power management options conserve energy and reduce power costs.

Software

NEC CSD provides a variety of applications and hardware utilities with your system to let you take advantage of your hardware capabilities.

Preloaded Operating System

The Microsoft® Windows NT® , Windows® 95, or Windows 98 operating system comes loaded on your system.

1-14 Reviewing System Features

NEC OS Restore CD

In the event of operating system problems, you can restore your operating system using the NEC OS Restore CD. The NEC OS Restore Program on the CD provides a “Fix OS” Restore option for reinstalling the Windows 95 or

Windows 98 operating system while leaving data files intact. This feature lets you back up your data files before performing a complete restore of the operating system.

The OS Restore program also provides options for reformatting and repartitioning the hard drive. In addition, the program automatically determines which drivers are needed for your original hardware configuration and installs them during the restore.

NEC Application and Driver CD

Your system comes with an NEC Application and Driver CD. Use this CD to install any or all of the software that comes with your system, including:

TMicrosoft® Internet Explorer

Internet Explorer provides a top-notch browser with preloaded links for easy access to the world wide web. Also use Internet Explorer to access one of the many new browser-based utilities.

TNetscape® Browser

Netscape provides a top-notch browser with preloaded links for easy access to the world wide web. Also use Netscape to access one of the many new browser-based utilities.

Reviewing System Features 1-15

TAdobe® Acrobat® Reader

Use the Adobe Acrobat Reader to read and print portable document format (PDF) files found on the Internet and PDF documents included with various software applications.

TNetwork™ Associates VirusScan® Software

Protect the system from viruses by running VirusScan.

TPartitionMagic™

Repartition your hard drive while leaving your data intact

with PartitionMagic. Includes BootMagic™ software for easily managing multiple operating systems.

TNEC Help Center

The NEC Help Center is an online guide with information about the PowerMate system.

THealthy Environment

This is an online version of the printed brochure, Setting up a Healthy Environment.

The NEC Application and Driver CD also contains a wide selection of drivers for hardware that is compatible with PowerMate series computers. These drivers are provided with the original manufacturer’s installation wizards to ensure correct installation.

Security

The system has hardware, software, and mechanical security features that offer protection against unauthorized access to your system and data. The following security features are available with the system.

TPassword security

The BIOS Setup utility includes a feature that lets you set up either a user or supervisor password, or both.

1-16 Reviewing System Features

The user password controls booting of the system and controls access to the Setup utility and the keyboard. (User access to the BIOS Setup utility is limited to a subset of all BIOS Setup parameters when a supervisor password has been set.)

The supervisor password allows full access to the system and the BIOS.

TWindows network security features

To learn more about the network security features available through the Windows operating system, refer to your Windows documentation or consult your system administrator.

TLocking tab

The system also has a locking tab on the rear of the chassis. The tab fits through a slot on the rear edge of the chassis cover when the cover is on. When a padlock is used in the tab, the system is physically protected from chassis intrusion.

Reviewing System Features 1-17

2

Setting Up the System

TCable Connections

TStartup

TShutdown

TPower-Saving Operation

TSystem Care

TMore Information

This chapter provides the information you need to set up and use your system. This includes cable connections, system startup procedures, system shutdown procedures, and system care. The chapter also includes a matrix showing where to find additional information about the computer.

Cable Connections

After unpacking the system and positioning the system unit in your work area, connect the system components using your Quick Setup poster and the following tips.

TUse the icons on the rear of the system unit to identify the keyboard, mouse, printer, USB, and monitor connectors.

TIf the system comes with a fax/modem board, connect it to the telephone line as follows:

Unplug the telephone from the telephone jack on the wall.

Plug the telephone cable that comes with the system into the line jack on the rear of the system and into the telephone jack on the wall.

Plug the cable on the telephone into the phone jack on the rear of the system.

TIf your system comes with the network board option, see your network administrator for guidelines on configuring the system for network access.

2-2 Setting Up the System

TSet the voltage switch correctly for your area. The correct setting for the U.S. and Canada is 115V.

! WARNING

Set the voltage switch correctly for your area.

TConnect system power cables to a surge protector (recommended) or a properly grounded wall outlet.

! CAUTION

NEC CSD recommends connecting the power cable to a surge protector.

Startup

Press the power button to start up your system. The power lamp lights green to indicate that the system is on. The system performs its Power-On Self-Test (POST) and several messages appear indicating that your system is checking its subsystems. To see the messages, press Tab during POST.

At the bottom of the NEC startup screen, the following message appears:

Press F2 to enter BIOS Setup

If you want to enter the BIOS Setup, immediately press F2 while the startup screen displays.

One beep indicates that the system has successfully completed the power-on test. After a short delay, Windows starts up.

Setting Up the System 2-3

If a problem occurs, a series of beeps may sound. If this happens repeatedly after powering on, power off the system and turn to Chapter 5, “Solving System Problems.” The chapter provides helpful hints for solving system problems.

Note: If the system displays a message indicating that system settings have changed, run the BIOS Setup utility (see Chapter 3, “Configuring the System”).

On systems loaded with the Windows NT® 4.0 operating system, press Ctrl Alt Del when prompted on-screen to do so. The log-on box appears for entering a password.

Shutdown

Follow these steps to power off your computer.

1.Save your work and exit all open application programs.

2.Make sure that the hard drive, diskette drive, and any other drives are not in use. A lit device lamp indicates that the device is in use.

! CAUTION

Wait until a program is finished running before powering off the system.

Unless absolutely necessary, never power off the system when the system power lamp is amber or when either the hard drive lamp, diskette drive, or other device lamp is lit. Information on the device might be lost or damaged.

2-4 Setting Up the System

3.Click Start on the taskbar, then point to and click Shut Down. Selecting Shut Down gives you several choices in the pop-up submenu. Select Shut down the

computer, then click Yes or press Enter for shut down.

4.If your system is configured with Windows 98, the system shuts down automatically after a short interval.

Note: You can also power off the system by pressing the power button and holding it in for several seconds before releasing. The system powers off after a short delay.

5.If your system is configured with Windows 95 or Windows NT, shut down the system by pressing and holding in the power button for several seconds before releasing.

6.Turn off power to your monitor.

Power-Saving Operation

If the system is running Windows 95 or Windows 98, you can put it in Sleep mode (a power-saving state) by lightly pressing and immediately releasing the power button on the front of your unit. The Sleep mode is a convenient way of conserving energy when you are going to be away from your system for a short period of time.

The system also goes into Sleep mode when it has been inactive, if the power management has been enabled in BIOS, and an inactivity timeout has been enabled. (See Chapter 3, “Configuring Your System” for information on setting power management functions.)

Setting Up the System 2-5

! CAUTION

Take care to lightly press and immediately release the power button to enter the Sleep mode. Avoid pressing and holding in the power button or you may turn off power and lose data.

When the system goes into Sleep mode, it saves data and system status and then shuts off power to all possible components. Sleep mode lets you save power without first saving your work.

An amber power lamp indicates that the system is in Sleep mode. Press a key or move the mouse to resume system operation where you left off.

System Care

Your system is a durable, dependable computer built for heavy use. With protective measures and proper care, you can prevent problems and promote the successful operation and long life span of your computer.

Protecting Your System From Damage

There are several ways that you can protect your system from possible damage. NEC CSD strongly recommends the following protective measures.

TConnect a surge suppressor between your computer and a grounded wall outlet. A surge suppressor protects your system from sudden transient increases and decreases in electrical power.

2-6 Setting Up the System

Be sure to connect all peripherals, such as your monitor and printer, to the surge suppressor. The surge protector should be the only device that you plug into the wall outlet.

TAvoid repeated power-on cycles. These subject the system components to temperature variations and stress.

TDisconnect your system from telephone and power lines when an electrical storm threatens. If you have a fax/modem, lightning can travel in on the phone line and damage both the fax/modem and the system unit. Lightning can also travel in on power lines and damage your monitor and system unit.

TBe sure that system power is off before you connect or disconnect a cable. Never make cable changes when the system power is on. Doing so can damage the system and its peripherals.

TUse BIOS Setup utility options to protect against viruses (see “Security Menu” in Chapter 3). Use appropriate virus detection software regularly to protect your system from computer viruses.

If you plan to use software programs other than NEC CSD supplied software, NEC CSD strongly recommends that you take the necessary steps, such as virus checks, to protect your system.

TPosition your computer away from direct sunlight and extreme hot and cold temperatures.

The recommended operating environment is from 50°F to 95°F (10°C to 35°C).

The recommended non-operating environment (shipping or storage) is from 14°F to 158°F (-10°C to 70°C).

Setting Up the System 2-7

TAfter turning off power, wait about five seconds for the hard drive to spin down before you power on again.

TBe sure that nothing is placed on top of your system power cables.

TPrevent dust from entering your system by covering it when it is not in use.

Keeping Your System in Good Condition

Maintain the condition of your system by periodically using the following procedures.

! WARNING

For safety, power off and unplug your system, monitor, and any external devices before cleaning them.

TClean the outside of the computer with a soft clean cloth.

You can remove stubborn stains with a cloth slightly dampened with a mild detergent. Never use a strong cleaner or solvent on any part of the system.

TKeep food and liquids away from your computer.

TPeriodically clean the keyboard with a vacuum cleaner brush attachment. Do not use any liquid cleaners on the keyboard as they can damage the keyboard.

If an object, such as a paper clip, falls into the keyboard, turn the keyboard over and gently shake it.

TClean the monitor screen with a glass cleaner and wipe it with a clean, lint-free cloth. You may use wet/dry cleaning pads manufactured for monitor screens.

2-8 Setting Up the System

Moving or Shipping Your System

Use these steps to prepare your system for moving or shipping.

1.Back up the files on the hard drive to diskettes, Zip disks, tape cartridges, or other backup devices.

Take precautions for storing and transporting Zip disks, diskettes, or tape cartridges so that they are not exposed to magnetic fields or electrical impulses.

2.Remove any diskette from the diskette drive. If you have a CD in the CD-ROM drive, remove the CD.

3.Turn off the system unit and any external options connected to it.

4.Unplug the system unit power cable from the wall outlet or surge suppressor, then from the unit itself.

5.Unplug any external options from the wall outlets or surge suppressor, then disconnect them from the system unit.

6.Pack the system components in the original shipping materials and cartons. If these are not available, be sure to use adequate packing materials to protect the components.

To set up your system, follow the steps on the

PowerMate VT 300i Series Quick Setup poster that comes with the computer.

Setting Up the System 2-9

More Information

Once you have your system up and running, we suggest that you do the following:

TInstall applications provided by NEC CSD on the NEC Application and Driver CD.

TSee “Setting Up a Healthy Work Environment” in Appendix A.

TInstall any of your own applications. See the documentation that comes with the application.

See the following quick reference chart to find information about using the computer.

Quick Reference to Information About the Computer

Information	Where to Find It
Installing the applications provided by	“Installing Applications” in Chapter 3
NEC CSD
Installing the NEC Help Center online	“Installing the NEC Help Center” in
documentation	Chapter 3
Uninstalling the NEC Help Center	“Uninstalling the NEC Help Center” in
	Chapter 3
Setting a password	Chapter 3
Adding options	Chapter 4
Accessing the world wide web	Chapter 6
Protecting the system from viruses	Chapter 1
Using support services	Chapter 6
Taking care of the system	“System Care” in Chapter 2
Troubleshooting tips	Chapter 5

2-10 Setting Up the System

3

Configuring the System

TConfiguration Tools and Utilities

TBIOS Setup Utility

TFlash Utility

TNEC OS Restore CD

TNEC Application and Driver CD

TNEC Help Center

TResolutions for NEC VistaScan USB Monitors

TSystem Board Jumper Settings

This chapter provides information on configuring your computer. The chapter includes information on the

TAmerican Megatrends, Inc. (AMI) BIOS Setup utility for configuring hardware and the system

TFlash utility for BIOS updates

TNEC OS Restore CD for rebuilding the hard drive and/or restoring the operating system

TNEC Applications and Driver CD for installing the NEC supplied applications and optional drivers

Tjumper settings for physically configuring devices in the system.

See the following table for a quick guide to the utilities, tools, or procedures required in configuring the system. For detailed information about these and other tools, see the sections following the table.

Configuration Tools and Utilities

The following table lists ways you can configure the system, and the utility, tool, or procedure to use for the configuration.

3-2 Configuring the System

Configuration Tools and Utilities

Configuration	Method, Tool, or Utility
BIOS, updating	FLASH utility
Boot devices, determining	BIOS Setup (Advanced menu)
Boot order, changing	BIOS Setup (Advanced menu)
Clearing CMOS and password	Jumper Settings
Configuring processor jumpers on system	Jumper Settings
board
DIMM memory, checking	BIOS Setup (Main menu)
Diskette drive, enabling	BIOS Setup (Main menu)
Drivers for NEC CSD hardware, installing	NEC Application and Driver CD
Hard drive, reformatting	NEC OS Restore CD
Hard drive, repartioning	NEC OS Restore CD
Hard drive, setting a pre-delay	BIOS Setup (Advanced menu)
Hard drive, subjecting to power management	BIOS Setup (Advanced menu)
Healthy Environment (online document),	NEC Application and Driver CD
installing
Inactivity timeout, setting	BIOS Setup (Advanced menu)
Keyboard options	BIOS Setup (Advanced menu)
Memory, checking	BIOS Setup (Main menu)
NEC Help Center, installing	NEC Application and Driver CD
	(see “Installing the NEC Help
	Center”)
NEC Help Center, uninstalling	see “Uninstalling the NEC Help
	Center”
Operating system, restoring	NEC OS Restore CD

Configuring the System 3-3

Configuration Tools and Utilities

Configuration	Method, Tool, or Utility
Parallel port, enabling, configuring	BIOS Setup (Advanced menu)
Password, setting or clearing (user,	BIOS Setup (Security menu)
supervisor, or both)	Jumper Settings
Plug and Play, enabling	BIOS Setup (Advanced menu)
Power management, enabling, configuring	BIOS Setup (Advanced menu)
Processor speed, changing	Jumpers
Serial ports, enabling	BIOS Setup (Advanced menu)
Software provided through NEC, installing	NEC Application and Driver CD
Sound, enabling	BIOS Setup (Advanced menu)
Time and date, setting	BIOS Setup (Main menu)
USB functions	BIOS Setup (Advanced menu)
Video device, subjecting to power	BIOS Setup (Advanced menu)
management
Windows 95, Windows 98, or Windows NT,	NEC OS Restore CD
restoring

3-4 Configuring the System

BIOS Setup Utility

The AMI BIOS Setup utility program is used to configure the main components of your computer.

Your system ships from the factory with the correct system parameters for your configuration. Unless you add optional hardware, you do not need to run the BIOS Setup utility to operate your system. However, you might wish to run the Setup utility to set features that customize your system, such as security features.

System configuration information is stored in nonvolatile memory. A nonvolatile memory device retains its data when system power is turned off. Nonvolatile memory in your system is stored in a complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) memory chip backed up by a battery on the system board. The battery supplies continuous power to CMOS memory and maintains configuration information when system power is off (see “Battery Replacement” in Chapter 5).

NEC CSD recommends that you print out or write down your current BIOS Setup parameters and store the information in a safe place. This lets you restore your system to the current parameters if you ever need to replace the battery.

Configuring the System 3-5

How to Start BIOS Setup

To start the BIOS Setup utility, follow these steps.

1.Turn on or reboot the system.

2.Press F2 as soon as you see the following message at the bottom of the NEC startup screen.

Press F2 to enter BIOS Setup

You have about five seconds to press F2 before the system boot continues.

3.Setup’s Main Menu appears and looks similar to the following.

Setup Main Menu

Main Menu

Main	Advanced	Security		Exit
	BIOS Version		VI.xxxx							Setup Help
	Processor Type		Pentium				Month:				Jan-Dec
	Processor Speed		450 MHz
							Day:				01-31
	Cache RAM		512 KB
							Year:				1901-2099
	Total Memory		32 Mb
	DRAM Bank 0		SDRAM
	DRAM Bank 1		None
	System Date		Wed Aug 11 1999
	System Time		10:17:59
	Floppy Drive A		1.44 MB 3 1/2
	Floppy Drive B		Not Installed
	Primary IDE Master		Auto
	Primary IDE Slave		Auto
	Secondary IDE Master		Auto							Previous Item
	Secondary IDE Slave		Auto							Next Item
										Select Menu
Esc: Exit	Enter: Select		F5: Setup Defaults		F6: Original Values					F10: Save & Exit

3-6 Configuring the System

How to Use BIOS Setup

Use the keys shown on the bottom of the Main Menu to make your selections or exit the current menu. The following table describes the navigation keys.

	Navigation Keys
Key	Function
Esc	Exits the menu.
Enter	Executes Command or brings up
	a submenu.
F5	Loads the Default Configuration
	values for this menu.
F6	Selects the Original Values for the
	field.
F10	Saves changes and Exits the
	BIOS Setup utility.
Up or down arrow keys	Moves cursor up and down in the
	menu.
Left or right arrow keys	Selects next menu.

Help Setup information displays on the right side of the Setup screen.

Main Menu

The BIOS Setup utility usually comes up displaying the Main Menu. If BIOS is displaying another menu, choose the Main Menu by selecting Main in the legend bar.

See “How to Start BIOS Setup” for a look at a typical Main Menu screen.

Configuring the System 3-7

Main Menu options are available by selecting submenus. Use the arrow keys to select a Main Menu option. Press Enter to display the submenu. Explanations of typical Main Menu options and suboptions appear in the following tables. Actual explanations and settings may vary between systems.

	Main Menu Items
Menu Item	Settings (default is bold)
BIOS Version	This field is read-only and cannot be changed
	from the BIOS Setup utility.
	Example: V1.001
Processor Type	This field is read-only and cannot be changed
	from the BIOS Setup utility.
	Example: Celeron
Processor Speed	This field is read-only and cannot be changed
	from the BIOS Setup utility.
	Example: 433 MHz
Cache RAM	This field is read-only and cannot be changed
	from the BIOS Setup utility.
	Example: 128 KB
Total Memory	This field is read-only and cannot be changed
	from the BIOS Setup utility.
	Example: 32 MB
DRAM Bank 0	These fields are read-only and cannot be
DRAM Bank 1	changed from the BIOS Setup utility.
	Example:
	DRAM Bank 0 32 MB SDRAM
	DRAM Bank 1 None
System Date	Set system date in this field. Press Tab or
	Enter to move between month, date, and
	year fields.
	Example:
	Aug 10 1999

3-8 Configuring the System

	Main Menu Items
Menu Item	Settings (default is bold)
System Time	Set system time in this field. Press Tab or
	Enter to move between hour, minute, and
	second fields.
	Example: 09:30:00
Floppy Drive A:	Disabled
	360 KB 5 1/4"
	1.2 MB 5 1/4"
	720 KB 3 1/2"
	1.44/1.25 MB 3 1/2"
	2.88 MB 3 1/2"
Floppy Drive B	Not Installed
Primary IDE Master	Device type, Auto
Primary IDE Slave	Device type, Auto
Secondary IDE Master	Device type, Auto
Secondary IDE Slave	Device type, Auto
	Each device menu item displays the Hard
	drive or CD-ROM identifier if a device is
	installed.
	If you install a hard drive that does not feature
	auto IDE type detection or your IDE hard
	drive was formatted on another system with
	parameters different from those reported by
	the drive, enter a parameter for each of the
	fields in the device submenu.
	Bring up a device submenu by pressing
	Enter. The submenus include Type,
	Cylinders, Heads, Sectors, LBA Mode, Block
	Mode, Fast Programmed I/O Modes, and
	32-Bit Transfer Mode. Each mode is briefly
	described in the following.

Configuring the System 3-9

	Main Menu Items
Menu Item	Settings (default is bold)
Type	None, CD-ROM, IDE Removable, User,
	ATAPI Removable, Auto
	Defaults to Disabled and changes at boot
	time based on auto-detection. When set to
	Auto, the values for Cylinders, Heads,
	Sectors, and Maximum Capacity are
	displayed but are read only.
	When set to Auto, the BIOS detects what the
	drive is capable of, not the translation
	mechanism that was used to format the drive.
	If a drive is run in a mode other than the
	mode in which it was partitioned and
	formatted, unpredictable results may occur,
	including data loss.
Cylinders	When Type is Auto, value in the Cylinders
	field is auto-detected and field is read only.
Write Precompensation	When Type is Auto, value in Write Pre-
	compensation field is auto-detected and field
	is read only.
Heads	When Type is Auto, value in Heads field is
	auto-detected and field is read only.
Sectors	When Type is Auto, value in Sectors field is
	auto-detected and field is read only.
Maximum Capacity	xxxx MB
LBA Mode	On, Off
	When On is selected, it causes logical block
	addressing to be used in place of cylinders,
	heads, and sectors.
	When Type is set to Auto, the value in the
	LBA Mode field is auto-detected and the field
	is read only.

3-10 Configuring the System