Nec VERSA NOTE 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.
As an ENERGY star partner, NEC Computer Systems Division (NEC CSD) has determined that this product meets the ENERGY star guidelines for energy efficiency.
FaxFlash is a service mark of NEC CSD, Packard Bell NEC, Inc.
NEC and Versa are registered trademarks of NEC Corporation, used under license.
ENERGY STAR is a U.S. registered trademark.
All other product, brand, or trade names used in this publication are the trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective trademark owners.
First Printing — December 1998
Copyright 1998
NEC Computer Systems Division
Packard Bell NEC, Inc.
1 Packard Bell Way
Sacramento, CA 95828-0903
All Rights Reserved
Contents
Using This Guide
Text Setup ....................................................................................................... |
x |
Related Documents ......................................................................................... |
xi |
1 Getting Started
Your NEC Versa Note ................................................................................. |
1-2 |
Around the Front of the System.................................................................... |
1-4 |
LCD Panel............................................................................................. |
1-4 |
Control Panel......................................................................................... |
1-6 |
Status Icons ..................................................................................... |
1-7 |
Keyboard Panel and Base Unit............................................................... |
1-8 |
Around the Back of the System .................................................................... |
1-9 |
Around the Left Side of the System............................................................. |
1-11 |
Around the Right Side of the System........................................................... |
1-12 |
Around the Bottom of the System................................................................ |
1-14 |
NEC Versa Note Power Sources ................................................................. |
1-15 |
Using the AC Adapter........................................................................... |
1-15 |
Powering On / Off .......................................................................... |
1-16 |
Using the Battery Pack.......................................................................... |
1-17 |
Replacing the Battery Pack............................................................. |
1-17 |
When Battery Power is Low ........................................................... |
1-18 |
Battery Handling .................................................................................. |
1-19 |
Battery Life .......................................................................................... |
1-19 |
Extending Battery Life.......................................................................... |
1-20 |
Battery Charging .................................................................................. |
1-20 |
Battery Precautions ............................................................................... |
1-21 |
Battery Disposal ................................................................................... |
1-21 |
Internal Batteries......................................................................................... |
1-22 |
CMOS Battery...................................................................................... |
1-22 |
System Care................................................................................................ |
1-23 |
Storage Requirements ........................................................................... |
1-23 |
Routine Cleaning .................................................................................. |
1-24 |
Important Safety Instructions ...................................................................... |
1-25 |
Precautions ........................................................................................... |
1-25 |
German Language Version of Important Safety Instructions........................ |
1-28 |
Wichtige Hinweise Zur Sicherheit......................................................... |
1-28 |
Vorsichtsmaßnahmen............................................................................ |
1-29 |
Contents iii
2 Understanding the Software
Windows Introduction.................................................................................. |
2-3 |
Windows 98 .......................................................................................... |
2-3 |
Desktop Icons.................................................................................. |
2-3 |
Taskbar Icons .................................................................................. |
2-4 |
Windows 95 .......................................................................................... |
2-6 |
Active Desktop................................................................................ |
2-7 |
Internet Explorer Channel Bar ......................................................... |
2-7 |
Taskbar Icons .................................................................................. |
2-8 |
Windows NT ......................................................................................... |
2-8 |
Service Pack 4................................................................................. |
2-9 |
Guide to Online Help .................................................................................. |
2-10 |
Guide to NEC Utilities ................................................................................ |
2-10 |
Setup .................................................................................................... |
2-11 |
NEC Customize Utility ......................................................................... |
2-11 |
PHDisk................................................................................................. |
2-11 |
Other Software............................................................................................ |
2-11 |
Adobe Acrobat Reader.......................................................................... |
2-12 |
QuickLink MessageCenter III ............................................................... |
2-12 |
eSafe Protect......................................................................................... |
2-12 |
Microsoft Office 97 Professional Edition (only on selected models) ...... |
2-12 |
World Wide Web Browsers......................................................................... |
2-12 |
Netscape Navigator............................................................................... |
2-13 |
Microsoft Internet Explorer................................................................... |
2-13 |
Applications and Drivers CD ...................................................................... |
2-13 |
Launching the Applications and Drivers CD ......................................... |
2-13 |
Installing the Software .......................................................................... |
2-14 |
3 Using Setup and Power Management
Setup Utility ................................................................................................ |
3-2 |
How to Enter Setup................................................................................ |
3-2 |
How to Use Setup .................................................................................. |
3-3 |
Looking at Screens .......................................................................... |
3-3 |
Using Keys...................................................................................... |
3-4 |
Checking/Setting System Parameters ............................................... |
3-5 |
Setup Menus.......................................................................................... |
3-7 |
Main Menu...................................................................................... |
3-7 |
Advanced Menu .............................................................................. |
3-8 |
Security Menu ................................................................................. |
3-8 |
Power Menu .................................................................................... |
3-9 |
iv Contents
Boot Menu ..................................................................................... |
3-11 |
Exit Menu ...................................................................................... |
3-11 |
4 Using Your NEC Versa Note
LCD Panel ................................................................................................... |
4-2 |
Keyboard ..................................................................................................... |
4-2 |
NEC VersaGlide .......................................................................................... |
4-5 |
Making VersaGlide Adjustments ........................................................... |
4-6 |
VersaGlide Tips..................................................................................... |
4-7 |
Integrated Drives.......................................................................................... |
4-7 |
20X or 24X CD-ROM Reader................................................................ |
4-8 |
CD Loading........................................................................................... |
4-8 |
CD Care ................................................................................................ |
4-9 |
Changing the Auto Play Setting ............................................................. |
4-9 |
56K Internal Modem................................................................................... |
4-10 |
Connecting the Internal Modem ............................................................ |
4-11 |
PC Cards .................................................................................................... |
4-12 |
Type II Cards........................................................................................ |
4-12 |
Type II Extended Cards ........................................................................ |
4-12 |
Type III Cards ...................................................................................... |
4-12 |
Communication Cards .................................................................... |
4-12 |
PC Card Modems ........................................................................... |
4-13 |
Storage Cards ................................................................................. |
4-13 |
Interface Cards ............................................................................... |
4-13 |
Other Cards .................................................................................... |
4-13 |
PC Card Slots ....................................................................................... |
4-14 |
Inserting a PC Card ........................................................................ |
4-14 |
Removing a Card............................................................................ |
4-15 |
IR Port.................................................................................................. |
4-16 |
USB Port .............................................................................................. |
4-17 |
Enabling and Disabling Devices.................................................................. |
4-18 |
Increasing System Storage and Memory...................................................... |
4-19 |
Hard Disk Drive ................................................................................... |
4-19 |
Memory Module Installation................................................................. |
4-19 |
Connecting Options .................................................................................... |
4-22 |
External Monitor .................................................................................. |
4-23 |
Printer .................................................................................................. |
4-23 |
Parallel Devices.............................................................................. |
4-24 |
Serial Devices ................................................................................ |
4-24 |
External Keyboard/Mouse/Keypad........................................................ |
4-25 |
External Audio Options ........................................................................ |
4-26 |
Contents v
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NEC PortBar ........................................................................................ |
4-26 |
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Using the PortBar ........................................................................... |
4-26 |
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Updating the System BIOS ................................................................... |
4-29 |
5 |
Using Multimedia |
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Audio........................................................................................................... |
5-2 |
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Recording.............................................................................................. |
5-2 |
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Line-In .................................................................................................. |
5-3 |
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CD-ROM Input ..................................................................................... |
5-4 |
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Microphone ........................................................................................... |
5-4 |
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Playing Back ......................................................................................... |
5-4 |
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Using Headphones........................................................................... |
5-5 |
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Using the Built-In Speakers ............................................................. |
5-5 |
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Using External Stereo Speakers ....................................................... |
5-5 |
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Video........................................................................................................... |
5-5 |
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Using Digital Video Files....................................................................... |
5-6 |
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Using Animation Files ........................................................................... |
5-6 |
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Multimedia Applications.............................................................................. |
5-7 |
6 Traveling with Your NEC Versa Note |
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Power Connections ...................................................................................... |
6-2 |
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Checklist Information................................................................................... |
6-2 |
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What to Take ......................................................................................... |
6-3 |
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Preparing Your NEC Versa Note for Travel ........................................... |
6-3 |
7 |
Solving Problems |
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Problem Checklist........................................................................................ |
7-2 |
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Start-up Problems ........................................................................................ |
7-3 |
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POST Error Messages............................................................................ |
7-4 |
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If You Need Assistance................................................................................ |
7-6 |
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Product Recovery CD .................................................................................. |
7-7 |
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Full/Express Restore.............................................................................. |
7-8 |
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Partition Restore ................................................................................... |
7-10 |
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If You Need Assistance............................................................................... |
7-13 |
A Setting Up a Healthy Work Environment |
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Making Your Computer Work for You......................................................... |
A-2 |
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Arrange Your Equipment ............................................................................. |
A-3 |
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Adjust Your Chair........................................................................................ |
A-3 |
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Adjust Your Input Devices ........................................................................... |
A-4 |
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vi |
Contents |
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Adjust Your Screen or Monitor .................................................................... |
A-5 |
Vary Your Workday..................................................................................... |
A-6 |
Pre-existing Conditions and Psychosocial Factors ........................................ |
A-7 |
B Specifications
System Components..................................................................................... |
B-2 |
Interrupt Controllers..................................................................................... |
B-7 |
DMA Settings .............................................................................................. |
B-8 |
C Getting Services and Support
Quick Reference Chart................................................................................. |
C-2 |
NEC NOW .................................................................................................. |
C-3 |
NEC CSD Web Site ..................................................................................... |
C-4 |
NEC CSD FTP Site...................................................................................... |
C-5 |
NEC CSD FaxFlash Service......................................................................... |
C-6 |
Email/Fax to Support Services ..................................................................... |
C-8 |
NEC CSD Bulletin Board............................................................................. |
C-9 |
NEC CSD Support Services ....................................................................... |
C-11 |
NEC CSD Customer Assistance Center...................................................... |
C-11 |
Versa Laptop Fulfillment Hotline............................................................... |
C-12 |
Glossary
Index
Contents vii
Using This Guide
The NEC Versa® Note User’s Guide gives you the information you need to use your NEC Versa Note notebook computer. The information in this guide refers to the Windows 98, Windows 95, and Windows NT operating systems. Read this guide to familiarize yourself with the system and its features. For specific information, see
TChapter 1, “Getting Started,” acquaints you with the system hardware.
TChapter 2, “Understanding the Software,” summarizes the applications loaded on your system. Software included lets you experience the full spectrum of the system, from creating vivid multimedia presentations to accessing the Internet.
TChapter 3, “Using Setup and Power Management,” explains how to customize your notebook’s parameter and power management settings.
TChapter 4, “Using Your NEC Versa Note,” describes the NEC Versa Note features and functions. You’ll also master procedures for connecting external options like a headphone, microphone or speakers.
TChapter 5, “Using Multimedia,” details how to integrate video and sound clips into impressive presentations.
TChapter 6, “Traveling with Your NEC Versa Note,” lists valuable tips for getting the most out of your system while on the road.
TChapter 7, “Solving Problems,” provides simple solutions to common problems that may arise while operating your notebook.
TAppendix A, “Setting Up a Healthy Work Environment,” provides guidelines to help promote a healthy work setting.
TAppendix B, “Specifications,” reviews NEC Versa Note system specifications.
Using This Guide ix
TAppendix C, “Getting Services and Support,” describes the variety of services available for you when you need help with your system.
Text Setup
To make this guide easy to use, text is set up in the following ways.
T Warnings, cautions, and notes have the following format:
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 system hardware or software.
Note: Notes give particularly important information on whatever is being described.
TNames of keys are printed as they appear on the keyboard, for example, Ctrl, Alt, or Enter.
TText that you must type or keys that you must press are presented in bold type. For example, type dir and press Enter.
x Using This Guide
Related Documents
See the following documents for additional information on your NEC Versa Note notebook computer:
TThe NEC Versa Note Quick Setup sheet helps you get your system up and running.
TThe NEC Versa Note Quick Reference card provides an easy-to-carry reference to LED meanings, controls, function key combinations, and NEC help numbers.
TThe NEC Versa Note User’s Guide is a fully navigational, HTMLbased document containing a full search capability and all of the information about your NEC Versa Note that you find in this printed user’s guide, and more. This is installable from the Applications and Drivers CD that ships with the system.
Using This Guide xi
1
Getting Started
TYour NEC Versa Note
TAround the Front of the System
TAround the Back of the System
TAround the Left Side of the System
TAround the Right Side of the System
TAround the Bottom of the System
TNEC Versa Note Power Sources
TInternal Batteries
TSystem Care
TImportant Safety Instructions
TGerman Language Version of Important Safety Instructions
`
Your NEC Versa Note
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.
After completing the steps in the quick setup sheet that comes with your computer, your NEC Versa Note system is ready to go! To get started:
TRead Appendix A, Setting Up a Healthy Work Environment, for guidelines that help you use your computer productively and safely. Information includes how to set up and use your computer to reduce your risk of developing nerve, muscle, or tendon disorders.
TRead through this guide to familiarize yourself with the NEC Versa Note.
The NEC Versa Note notebook computer offers you a portable system filled with exciting resources for home, business or travel. Standard features include a powerful Intel® Pentium microprocessor that works together with the latest Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) architecture. Depending on the model, your NEC Versa Note is equipped with one of the following processors: Pentium Tillamook or Pentium II.
1-2 Getting Started
In addition, your all-in-one system provides a high-performance hard disk drive, diskette drive, 20X or 24X CD-ROM, PC card slots, and a V.90-compliant 56 kilobits per second (Kbps) modem (modem only available on some models). As a multimedia system, your NEC Versa Note provides the tools needed to create and present impressive images using video clips and sound.
To get comfortable with your notebook, read the following sections and take a tour around your system!
NEC Versa Note notebook computer
Getting Started 1-3
Around the Front of the System
The NEC Versa Note is compact with features on every side. First, look at the front of the system. The following sections describe front features, beginning with the liquid crystal display (LCD) panel.
LCD Panel
The NEC Versa Note comes with a color LCD panel that you can adjust for a comfortable viewing position. The LCD panel can be a
12.1-inch Dual Scan Super-Twisted Nematic (DSTN) or Thin Film Transistor (TFT), Super Video Graphics Array (SVGA) color display, or a 13.3-inch TFT, Extended Graphics Array (XGA). The features of the LCD panel are described after the figure.
LCD panel
TPower and Suspend Status LEDs — (identified by icons) are located just under the front of the LCD panel. The status LEDs are duplicated on the back of the LCD panel to allow viewing when the panel is closed.
1-4 Getting Started
Power and Suspend LEDs
1. Power LED |
2. Battery Charging LED |
3. Suspend Mode LED |
¾Power LED — lets you know that power to the system is turned on. This LED is positioned so that you see the power state whether the LCD panel is opened or closed.
–Lights green when the system is powered on using the AC adapter, battery, or PowerXtender™ Auto adapter.
–Lights green when on and has normal battery power. Lights yellow when on and low (8% to 4%) battery power. Lights amber when in Suspend mode and very low (3% or less) battery power.
¾Battery Charging LED — lights to indicate battery charging status.
–Lights amber to indicate the battery is charging.
–Lights off to indicate the battery is fully charged.
¾Suspend Mode LED — is on when the system is in Standby mode, blinks in Suspend mode and off in full on or Power off mode.
Getting Started 1-5
Control Panel
The NEC Versa Note control panel provides the features shown in the following figure. The control panel features are described after the figure.
Control Panel
1. Status LEDs |
2. Power Button |
TStatus LEDs — keep you informed of your NEC Versa Note’s current operating status. Descriptions of the status icons appear in the following section.
TPower Button — press the Power button either to power on or power off the system.
Note: If you are unable to power off the system, use the power override. Press the Power button and hold it in place until the system powers off.
1-6 Getting Started
Status Icons
The NEC Versa Note system uses status lights marked with icons to communicate system status. See the following figure and list for each icon’s meaning.
Status LED icons
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1. |
Hard Drive Access |
2. |
Diskette Drive Access |
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3. |
Caps Lock |
4. |
Scroll Lock |
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5. Num Lock
THard Drive Access — lights when the NEC Versa Note accesses the hard disk drive.
TDiskette Drive Access — lights when the NEC Versa Note writes data to or retrieves data from the diskette drive.
TCaps Lock — lights when caps lock is in effect.
TScroll Lock — lights when scroll lock is in effect.
TNum Lock — lights when Num Lock mode is active.
Getting Started 1-7
Keyboard Panel and Base Unit
The NEC Versa Note keyboard panel and base unit contain the following features. The keyboard panel and base unit features are described after the figure.
Keyboard Panel and Base Unit
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1. Keyboard |
2. NEC VersaGlide |
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3. Microphone |
4. Built-in Speakers |
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TKeyboard — standard QWERTY-key layout. See “Using the Keyboard” in Chapter 4 for details about control keys, function keys, and keyboard features. (Models shipped outside of the U.S. are equipped with country-specific keyboard layouts.)
1-8 Getting Started
TNEC VersaGlide — works like a standard computer mouse. Simply move your fingertip over the VersaGlide to control the position of the cursor. Use the selection buttons below the VersaGlide to select menu items. See “NEC VersaGlide” in Chapter 4 for information about customizing VersaGlide settings.
TMicrophone — allows you to record monophonic sound directly into your notebook computer. See Chapter 5, “Using Multimedia,” for details about recording.
TBuilt-in Stereo Speakers — provides stereo sound for your multimedia presentations or listening pleasure.
Around the Back of the System
You’ll find system ports for connecting your NEC Versa Note to optional devices (like a printer or external monitor) on the back of your NEC Versa Note. The ports are described after the figure.
Back system features
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1. |
PortBar Notches |
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2. AC Power Port |
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PS/2 Port |
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Parallel Port |
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USB Port |
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Expansion Port |
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7. |
Serial Port |
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8. Monitor (Video) Port |
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Audio Ports (From left to right): Microphone, Line In & Headphones |
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TPortBar Notches — Use these notches to secure the PortBar to the back of the system. (There are two PortBar notches located at the both ends of the rear side of the system.)
Getting Started 1-9
TAC Power Port — Lets you attach the NEC Versa Note to the AC power source using the AC adapter that comes with your system. Keep the system connected to AC power whenever possible to keep the battery pack and internal CMOS battery charged.
TPS/2 Port — Use the standard PS/2 port to connect an external PS/2- style mouse, PS/2-style keyboard, or PS/2 style Numeric Keypad to the system. With an optional Y adapter, you can connect up to two of these devices at the same time.
TParallel Port — Use this port to connect a parallel printer or other parallel device. The parallel port default supports the Enhanced Capabilities Port (ECP) standard. The port also supports bi-directional and output only protocols.
Note: The default setting for the parallel port on your NEC Versa Note is set to Enhanced Capabilities Port (ECP). Some older parallel devices may not function with the ECP default setting. You may need to adjust the setting to accommodate your parallel device. Follow the instructions in Chapter 3, “Using Setup and Power Management,” to adjust the setting.
TUSB Port — The Universal Serial Bus (USB) port allows you to connect up to 127 USB-equipped peripheral devices (for example, printers, monitors, scanners) to your NEC Versa Note.
TExpansion Port — Use this port to connect the NEC PortBar.
TSerial Port — Use this port to connect a serial printer or other serial device.
TMonitor (Video) Port — Use this 15-pin port to attach an external monitor to your NEC Versa Note. You can run the LCD display and the external monitor simultaneously or run either alone.
1-10 Getting Started
TAudio Ports
¾Microphone — Allows you to connect an external microphone for monophonic recording or amplification through the unit. Plugging in an external microphone disables the built-in microphone.
¾Line In — Lets you use another audio system, like a home stereo, as an input source. Use a cable to connect to the Line-Out port on the other audio system to record or play.
¾Headphones — Lets you plug in stereo headphones or powered speakers.
Around the Left Side of the System
The left side of your NEC Versa Note provides the features shown in the following figure. The left side features are described after the figure.
Left side features
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1. IR Port |
2. |
Volume Control |
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3. CD-ROM Reader |
4. |
Diskette Drive |
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Getting Started 1-11
TIR Port — Use this port to transfer files between your NEC Versa Note and an IR-equipped desktop or notebook computer. You can also print to an IR-equipped printer without using cables. Use the IRMON utility in Windows 98 with your IR-equipped printer. With
Windows 95/NT, make sure the IR port is set properly in BIOS to use your system with an IR-equipped printer.
TVolume Control — Allows you to control the speaker volume through the thumb wheel.
TCD-ROM Reader — Allows you to load and start programs from a compact disc (CD) and play audio CDs. See Chapter 4, “Using Your NEC Versa Note Computer,” for details about using the CD-ROM reader.
TDiskette Drive — A 3.5-inch, 1.44-MB diskette drive comes installed in the NEC Versa Note system. The drive accepts 1.44-MB highdensity diskettes as well as 720-KB double-sided double-density diskettes.
Around the Right Side of the System
The right side of the NEC Versa Note offers the features shown in the following figure. The right side features are described after the figure.
1-12 Getting Started
Right side features
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1. |
Battery Bay |
2. Modem Port |
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3. |
Fan |
4. PC Card Slots |
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5. |
Kensington Lock |
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TBattery Bay — Depending upon the model, the battery bay contains a rechargeable Nickel-Metal-Hydride (NiMH) or Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) battery pack.
TModem Port (modem only available on some models) — NEC includes a 56K internal voice/fax/data modem. It keeps you connected to the outside world!
TFan — Allows your system to cool properly and maintain a safe operating environment.
CAUTION
Do not block the fan while the NEC Versa Note is in use.
Getting Started 1-13
TPC Card Slots — Two PC card slots allow you to insert two Type II PC cards or one Type III PC card in the bottom slot. Card BUS cards are supported and Zoom Video is supported in the top slot.
TKensington Lock — Lets you provide added security by installing an optional Kensington Lock.
Around the Bottom of the System
The bottom of the NEC Versa Note offers the following features. The features are described after the figure.
Bottom of the system
1. Battery Bay |
2. Battery Release Latch |
3. Memory Module Bay Cover 4. Tilt Foot
TBattery Bay — Equipped with a rechargeable Nickel-Metal-Hydride (NiMH) or (depending on the model) Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) battery.
TBattery Release Latch — Slide the latch to the other end and hold it. While holding the latch, slide the battery bay outwards to remove the battery.
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TMemory Module Bay Cover — Remove the screw to find two SO-DIMM slots. One is inserted with SDRAM memory board configured by the factory. The other is empty for upgrade use.
TTilt Foot — Adjust to provide flexible keyboard angle.
NEC Versa Note Power Sources
The NEC Versa Note can be powered using different sources, making it a truly portable system. Operate your NEC Versa Note system just about anywhere using one of the following power sources:
Tthe AC adapter connected to an electrical wall outlet (using AC power).
Tthe battery pack.
Tthe PowerXtender Auto Adapter.
Read the following sections for specific steps on powering on the system.
Using the AC Adapter
Use the AC adapter and power cable that came with your NEC Versa Note to run your computer on alternating current (AC) power, or to recharge the battery pack. Use the AC adapter whenever a wall outlet is nearby.
WARNING
Do not attempt to disassemble the AC adapter. The AC adapter has no user-replaceable or serviceable parts inside. Dangerous voltage in the AC adapter can cause serious personal injury or death. The AC adapter is intended for use with a computer. Both must meet EN60950 standards.
When connected, the AC adapter charges the battery whether or not the NEC Versa Note is powered on.
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Note: The AC outlet voltage should be in the range of 100–240 Volts AC. Verify that the cord and plug are appropriate for your AC source.
Connect the AC adapter as follows:
CAUTION
Use only the AC adapter that comes with your NEC Versa Note system. Although other AC adapters may look similar, using them can damage the system.
1.Connect the AC adapter cable to the power port on the rear side of your NEC Versa Note system.
2.Plug one end of the AC power cable into the AC adapter and the other end into a 120or 240-volt wall outlet.
WARNING
Do not cover or place objects on the AC adapter.
Doing so can cause the adapter to overheat.
Powering On / Off
To power on, locate the Power button on the left hand side of the control panel above the keyboard and press it. To power off the system, press the Power button. In Windows, the computer automatically shuts down, when “Shut Down” is selected from the Start menu. That is, you do not need to press the Power button to switch off the computer.
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Using the Battery Pack
The NEC Versa Note system comes with a rechargeable Nickel MetalHydride (NiMH) or Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) battery pack. You can run your system on battery power for approximately 2.5 hours with power management features enabled. Battery packs are easy to install and remove.
Note: Although the battery is fully charged at the factory, transit and shelf time may reduce the initial battery charge. We recommend that the first time you use your system, connect it to AC power using the AC adapter. This also recharges your battery.
When battery power drops to the level where the Battery Warning is activated, the power LED lights yellow.
When battery power reaches 8%, the power LED lights amber and the system beeps a warning and the system goes into Suspend/Save to File mode.
Replacing the Battery Pack
Install the battery pack in your system as follows:
CAUTION
Be sure to save your data before replacing the battery pack or connecting the AC adapter. Failure to do so can result in data loss.
1.If your system is on, save your data, power down the system.
2.Close the LCD and turn the system over.
3.Release the battery bay latch, slide the battery away from the system, and lift it off.
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4.Align the terminals on the new battery with the terminal connector in the bay. Insert the battery into the bay, until the battery bay latch locks the battery in place.
5.Press down on the battery to secure the terminal connection.
6.Turn the system over and press the Power button to power on the system.
When Battery Power is Low
When battery power gets low, connect your system to the AC adapter. If an AC adapter is not available, change the battery pack using the Replace Battery Pack procedure. See the section, “Replacing the Battery Pack.”
WARNING
To prevent accidental battery ignition or explosion, adhere to the following:
Keep the battery away from extreme heat.
Keep metal objects away from the battery terminals to prevent a short circuit.
Make sure the battery is properly installed in the battery bay.
Read the precautions printed on the battery.
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Battery Handling
Review the following before handling the system battery.
CAUTION
Use the NiMH or Li-Ion batteries only in the NEC Versa Note computer for which they are designed. Mixing other NEC Versa Note batteries, other manufacturer’s batteries, or using a combination of very old and new batteries can deteriorate battery and equipment performance.
TTurn off power to the system after use.
TClean the battery terminals with a dry cloth if they get dirty.
TWhen not in use, store the battery in a cool dry area.
The following symptoms indicate that battery life is nearing an end. Discard batteries that display these symptoms:
Tshorter work times
Tdiscoloration, warping
Thot to the touch
Tstrange odor.
Battery Life
The NEC Versa Note NiMH or Li-Ion battery has an approximate life of 2.5 hours under the following conditions:
TWhen it is new and fully charged.
TWhen no peripherals are connected to your NEC Versa Note.
TWhen you have no options installed.
Enabling power management features increases battery life.
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Extending Battery Life
While on the road, it is important to be aware of the simple things you can do to extend the life of the system’s main battery. Turning down the screen brightness (Fn + F9) and contrast (Fn + F11) extends battery life. Press to toggle through different power management modes and extend battery life. Chapter 3 “Using Setup and Power Management” gives details about power management features and the modes available.
Battery Charging
Charge time depends on whether or not you are using the system. There are two ways to charge your battery while it is installed in the NEC Versa Note:
TWhen the system is off or in Suspend mode and the AC adapter is connected, charge time is approximately 3 hours.
TWhen the system is powered on and the AC adapter is connected, charge time is approximately 4 hours.
For maximum battery performance, fully discharge the battery before recharging it. To do so, unplug the AC adapter, turn off power management features (through BIOS Setup (Fn + F7) and Windows power management), and turn on the system. Once the battery is fully discharged, plug in the AC adapter and recharge the battery.
If you do not discharge the battery completely, it not only fails to accept a full recharge, but also sends incorrect information to the Battery Gauge utility. The utility may indicate that you have plenty of battery power when you actually have very little. This can result in data loss when the battery suddenly dies.
The warning beep that sounds when battery power becomes critically low is always a true indicator that battery power is low. Be sure to save your data when you hear the beep and take proper steps to provide power to your system.
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Battery Precautions
To prevent accidental battery ignition, rupture, or explosion, adhere to the following precautions.
WARNING
There is a danger of explosion if the battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Discard used batteries according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Keep the battery away from heat sources including direct sunlight, open fires, microwave ovens, and high-voltage containers. Temperatures over 60ºC (140ºF) may cause damage.
Do not drop or impact the battery.
Do not disassemble the battery.
Do not solder the battery.
Do not puncture the battery.
Do not use a battery that appears damaged or deformed, has any rust on its casing, is discolored, overheats, or emits a foul odor.
Keep the battery dry and away from water.
Keep metal objects away from battery terminals. Metal objects in contact with the terminals can cause a short circuit and damage.
If the battery leaks onto skin or clothing, wash the area immediately. Battery fluid can cause a skin rash and damage fabric.
If battery fluid gets in eyes, DO NOT rub; rinse with clear water immediately and see a doctor.
Battery Disposal
Before disposing of the battery, put adhesive tape on the terminals. Depending upon the NEC Versa Note model, the main battery is made of Nickel Metal-Hydride (NiMH) or Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion).
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