Texas Instruments 6100 User Manual

User’s Guide

TravelMate® 6100 Series Notebook Computers

Copyright

TravelMate 6100 Series Notebook Computers User's Guide TI Part No. 9814483-0001 Original Issue: January 1997

Changes may be made periodically to the information in this publication. Such changes will be incorporated in new editions of this manual.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Texas Instruments.

Record the serial number, purchase date, and model number in the spaces provided below. The serial number and model number are recorded on the label affixed to the case. All correspondence concerning your unit should include the serial number, model number, and date of purchase.

Model Number

Serial Number

Purchase Date

TravelMate is a registered trademark and DockMate, BatteryPro, livegear and ThunderLAN are trademarks of Texas Instruments. The icons in the TravelMate Notebook Center and Startup groups are copyrighted by Texas Instruments. Ethernet is a registered trademark of Xerox Corporation. Microsoft, MS-DOS, and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. Pentium is a registered trademark of Intel Corporation. PS/2 is a registered trademark of International Business Machines Corporation. Sound Blaster is a trademark of Creative Technology Ltd. Kensington is a registered trademark of Kensington Microware, Inc. SCSI is a registered trademark of Security Control Systems, Inc. Centronics is a trademark of the Centronics Corporation. AudioRack is a trademark of ESS Technology, Inc. Avatar is a registered trademark of Avatar Technologies, Inc. UNIX is a registered trademark of Novell, Inc.

Notice

This device has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This device generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.

However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this device does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the device off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna

• Increase the separation between the device and receiver

• Connect the device into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/television technician for help

Notice: Shielded Cables

All connections to other computing devices must be made using shielded cables to maintain compliance with FCC regulations.

Notice: Peripheral Devices

Only peripherals (input/output devices, terminals, printers, etc.) certified to comply with the Class B limits may be attached to this equipment. Operation with non-certified peripherals is likely to result in interference to radio and TV reception.

Caution

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer could void the user's authority, which is granted by the Federal Communications Commission, to operate this computer.

Notice

Use Conditions

This part complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Notice: Canadian Users

This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations.

Remarque à l'intention des utilisateurs canadiens

Cet appareil numérique de la classe B respecte toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le matériel brouilleur du Canada.

Notice

This equipment complies with Part 68 of the FCC rules. The following regulations apply to modems used within the United States and Canada:

For USA Users: FCC Regulations

An FCC compliant telephone cord and modular plug are provided with this equipment.

• The equipment is designed to be connected to the telephone network or premises wiring using a compatible modular jack that is Part 68 compliant. Do not use this equipment on a party line or coin line.

• Malfunctioning equipment may damage the telephone network. If this device is not functioning properly, disconnect it until the problem has been determined and the device has been reparied. Otherwise, phone service may be temporarily disconnected. If advance notice isn’t practical, the telephone company will notify you as soon as possible. The telephone company may also request that you disconnect the equipment until the problem is resolved. Be advised of your right to file a complaint with the FCC if you believe it is necessary.

• Modem repair is done by Texas Instruments or authorized third-party service providers. For information on repair, dial 1-800-TI-TEXAS.

• If you experience any problems with your phone after installing any new device, disconnect it from the telephone line to see if the device is the source of the problem.

• The telephone company may change technical operations and procedures. If these changes affect compatibility or use of this device, the telephone company is required to provide adequate notice of the changes.

Phone Company Requests

If the telephone company requests information about the equipment connected to their lines, inform them of:

• The phone number to which the device is connected.

• The Ringer Equivalence Number (REN). The REN is used to determine

Notice

the quantity of devices that may be connected to the telephone line. Excessive RENs on the telephone line may result in the devices not ringing in response to an incoming call. In most (but not all) areas, the sum of RENs should not exceed five. To be certain of the number of devices that may be connected to a line, contact the local telephone company. See the bottom of your computer for the REN.

• The USOC telephone jack required. This equipment uses the RJ11C USOC jack.

• The FCC registration number found on the FCC-68 sticker attached to the device.

Connecting to the Telephone Company

It is not necessary to notify the telephone company before using the modem. However, the telephone company may request the telephone number(s) to which the modem is connected and the FCC information printed on this page.

Be sure that the telephone line you are connecting the modem to is a standard analog line and not a digital (PBX), party, or coin telephone line.

If the modem is malfunctioning, it may affect the telephone lines. In this case, disconnect the modem until the source of difficulty is traced.

Fax Branding

The Telephone Consumer Protection Act of 1991 makes it unlawful for any person to use a computer or other electronic device, including fax machines, to send any message unless such message clearly contains in a margin at the top or bottom of each transmitted page or on the first page of the transmission, the date and time it is sent, an identification of the business or other entity, or other individual sending the message, and the telephone number of the sending machine or of such business, or other entity, or individual. (The telephone number provided may not be a 900 number or any other number for which charges exceed local or longdistance transmission charges.)

In order to program this information into your modem, refer to the manual for the communications software that shipped with your computer.

Notice

For Canadian Modem Users:

The Industry Canada (IC) label identifies certified equipment. This certification means the equipment meets certain telecommunications network protective, operational, and safety requirements. The department does not guarantee the equipment will operate to the user’s satisfaction.

Before using the modem, users should ensure that it is permissible to be connected to the facilities of the local telecommunications company. The equipment must also be installed using an acceptable method of connection. In some cases, the company’s inside wiring associated with a single-line, individual service may be extended by means of a certified connector assembly (telephone extension cord). The customer should be aware that compliance with the above conditions may not prevent degradation of service in some situations. Currently, telecommunications companies do not allow users to connect their equipment to jacks except in precise situations that are spelled out in tariffing arrangements with those companies.

Repairs to certified equipment should be made by SHL Technical Services at 905-458-9800 or another authorized Canadian maintenance facility designated by the supplier. Any repairs or alterations made by the user to this equipment, or equipment malfunctions, may give the telecommunications company cause to request the user to disconnect the equipment.

For your own protection, make sure that the electrical ground connections of the power utility, telephone lines, and internal metallic water pipe system, if present, are connected together. This precaution may be particularly important in rural areas.

Caution: Do not attempt to make such connections yourself.

Contact the appropriate electric inspection authority, or electrician.

To prevent overloading, a Ringer Equivalence Number (REN) has been assigned to each terminal device to denote the percentage of the total load to be connected to a telephone loop that is used by the device. The termination on a loop may consist of any combination of devices subject only to the requirement that the total REN of the devices not exceed five. The IC-CS03 label and REN label are located on the bottom of your computer.

Notice 5

Chapter 1: Using Documentation 1-1

Chapter 2: Getting Started 2-1

Chapter 3: Installing Internal Accessories

Chapter 4: Setting Up Your Desktop 4-1

Printed Manuals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2

Online Manuals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3

Using the TravelMate Online Manual . . . . . 1-5

Deleting the TravelMate Online Manual . . . 1-7

What You Need Before Starting . . . . . . . . . 2-3

Running the Setup Program . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4

Backing Up System Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6

Loading Windows for Workgroups . . . . . . . 2-8

Loading Windows 95 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10

Loading Windows NT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13

Running the Demo Program . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15

Preventing Damage from Static Electricity . 3-2

Installing Memory Modules . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3

Installing Modular Bay Accessories . . . . . 3-10

Installing PC Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-13

Preparing To Install External Accessories . . 4-3 Installing a DockMate Docking Solution . . . 4-5

Connecting a Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8

Connecting a Pointing Device . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9

Connecting a Monitor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10

Connecting a Numeric Keypad Accessory . 4-13 Connecting an External Floppy Disk Drive 4-14

Connecting a Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15

Connecting Sound Equipment . . . . . . . . . 4-16

Connecting the Modem. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-18

Securing the Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-19

Feature Port. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-20

Chapter 5: Installing Software 5-1

Selecting Software for the Computer. . . . . . 5-2

Loading Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4

Special Considerations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5

Contents ix

Contents

Chapter 6: Battery Operation 6-1

Chapter 7: Mobility

7-1

Chapter 8: Care and Troubleshooting 8-1

Appendix A: Where To Get Help A-1

Index 1

General Information about Batteries . . . . . 6-2

Charging Batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4

Prolonging Battery Life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6

Responding to a Low Battery Condition . . . 6-8

Overview of Mobility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2

Disconnecting from the Desktop. . . . . . . . . 7-3

Moving Around. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-4

Taking the Computer Home . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5

Traveling with the Computer . . . . . . . . . . . 7-7

Traveling Internationally with the Computer 7-8

Cleaning the Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-2

Troubleshooting Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3

Customer Support Numbers. . . . . . . . . . . . A-1

Texas Instruments Worldwide Sales Offices A-2

x Contents

Using Documentation

This chapter describes this manual and the other documentation that ships with your computer. It tells you how to use the TravelMate Manual and how to delete those files from your hard disk drive if you are running short of space.

Printed Manuals

Online Manuals

Using the TravelMate Online Manual

Deleting the TravelMate Online Manual

Contents of the User’s Guide . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2

Other printed documents . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2

Advantages of online documentation . . . . . 1-3

TravelMate Online Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3

Other online documentation. . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4

Starting from Windows 95 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5

Starting from Windows NT . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5

Starting from Windows for Workgroups . . . 1-5

Viewing a topic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5

Printing current page or range of pages . . . 1-6

If you delete . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7

How to delete in Windows 95 . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7

How to delete in Windows NT . . . . . . . . . . 1-8

How to delete in Windows for Workgroups . 1-8

Online

Using Documentation 1-1

Printed Manuals

Contents of the User’s Guide

Getting Started

This chapter supplements the Installation Poster to help you install the computer for the first time. The chapter contains information to help you make decisions during the setup process, details of the Windows 95 setup program, and a description of the multimedia demo program.

What You Need Before Starting 3

Running the Setup Program 4

Backing Up System Files 6

Loading Windows for Workgroups 8

Loading Windows 95

Read Safety Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

Sufficient time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

Access to AC power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

Drive modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

PCMCIA cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

Certificate of Authenticity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

Language . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

Which operating system to load . . . . . . . . . 2-4

Windows 95 or Windows for

Workgroups and MS-DOS . . . . . . . . . 2-4

Windows NT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5

MS-DOS and Windows for Workgroups

backup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6

Windows 95 backup. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6

Windows NT backup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6

Loading PHDISK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8

Choosing the operating system. . . . . . . . . . 2-8

Creating Recovery Disk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9

Registering your computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9

Loading PHDISK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10

Choosing the operating system. . . . . . . . . 2-10

Configuring your system . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11

Finishing Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12

Loading Windows NT

Windows NT Setup. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13

Starting Windows NT for the first time . . . 2-14

Getting Started 2-1

Getting Started

Running the Demo Program 15

Contents of the demo program . . . . . . . . . 2-15

Running the demo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15

In Windows 95 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15

In Windows for Workgroups . . . . . . . . 2-15

Stopping the demo program . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15

Deleting the demo program . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16

In Windows 95 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16

In Windows for Workgroups . . . . . . . . 2-16

2-2 Getting Started

What You Need Before Starting

Read Safety Instructions

Sufficient time

Access to AC power

Drive modules

PCMCIA cards

The Safety Instructions for your computer are in printed form so you can read them carefully before turning on your computer for the first time.

The Windows 95 setup takes up to 30 minutes. Windows NT setup takes only a few minutes. Because of the way these operating systems structure their files, stopping in the middle of the setup process can cause irreversible file damage.

Although the battery pack may have some charge, it is probably insufficient for the entire set up. Loss of power during setup can cause irreversible file damage. Ensure that the computer is powered by the AC adapter.

Ensure that an optional drive module (such as a CD-ROM or hard disk) is not installed in the module bay. The floppy disk drive module must remain in the modular bay.

Ensure that any PCMCIA cards are removed from the unit.

What You Need Before Starting

Certificate of Authenticity

Language

During the Windows 95 and Windows NT Setup, you are asked for the Certificate of Authenticity number. You will find the Certificate of Authenticity in your Microsoft documentation kit. You need this number even if you are installing Windows for Workgroups.

During initial setup you choose the following:

• Language for Windows displays

• Language for keyboard installed Your language selection is final. You will not be

able to change the language after installation is complete.

Getting Started 2-3

Running the Setup Program

Which operating system to load

The TravelMate 6100 Series is available for use

Running the Setup Program

with several operating systems including:

• Windows 95

• Windows for Workgroups and

MS-DOS

• Windows NT

Note: There are two models of the TravelMate

6100. One model is configured for Windows 95 and Windows for Workgroups and MS-DOS. The other model is configured for Windows NT.

Windows 95 or Windows for Workgroups and MS-DOS

When you first boot the TravelMate 6100 model with Windows 95 and Windows for Workgroups, you must choose which operating system to load. Procedures located in this chapter show you how to load Windows 95 or Windows for Workgroups and MS-DOS.

Caution: This choice is final. You will not be able to change the operating system after installation is complete.

2-4 Getting Started

For most users Windows 95 is the better choice. You might want to load MS-DOS and Windows for Workgroups under the following circumstances.

• Your corporation or workgroup may have

guidelines that require use of MS-DOS and Windows for Workgroups. Check with your manager to determine the policy at your company.

• The software that controls your local area

network may not be compatible with

Running the Setup Program

Windows 95. Check with your network administrator to determine whether Windows 95 is compatible.

• Some software is incompatible with

Windows 95. If you have a critical software application that you intend to copy to your new computer, check with the manufacturer of the software to determine whether your application is compatible with Windows 95.

Windows NT

The other model of the TravelMate 6100 computer comes pre-loaded with Windows NT and automatically runs setup. There are no other operating systems to select.

Getting Started 2-5

Backing Up System Files

After setting up the operating system, you should back up the operating

Backing Up System Files

system onto floppy disks. You can make your backups immediately following setup or later. When you choose to back up your operating system on floppy disks, you will need several dozen floppy disks.

MS-DOS and Windows for Workgroups backup

Windows 95 backup

To backup your operating system in Windows for Workgroups, select the DiskMaker icon from the TravelMate Notebook Center Group.

To backup your operating system in Windows 95, select Start/Programs/Accessories/ System Tools/Create System Disks. Follow instructions on the screen.

Windows NT backup

Although the computer ships with a backup copy of Windows NT on a CD-ROM, you still need to create backup disks for the remaining software that is loaded on the hard disk drive at the factory. The following backup disks are created.

Software No. of Disks

AudioRack™ 1

2-6 Getting Started

NT Enhancements 2 ESS Sound Drivers 1

Follow these steps to create backup disks.

1. From the Windows NT desktop, double-click

the Start Doing Extraordinary Things icon.

The computer displays the Start Doing Extraordinary Things screen.

2. Click on Make Backup Disks.

The computer displays the TI Backup Disk

Backing Up System Files

Maker screen.

3. Click on the program you want to back up.

The disk maker prompts you to insert a floppy disk into the floppy disk drive.

4. Follow the prompts to back up the program.

5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 for each program in

the list.

Getting Started 2-7

Loading Windows for Workgroups

If you have decided to load DOS and Windows for Workgroups, follow

Loading Windows for Workgroups

these steps. If you have decided to load Windows 95, skip this section.

Loading PHDISK

Loading PHDISK creates an area on your hard disk drive which stores information upon disk shutdown. This partition is created automatically when you startup your computer for the first time.

1. When the Welcome to Windows 95 screen

appears, read the screen and press C to continue.

You are prompted to reset your system.

2. Press any key.

Your system is reset and the Windows 95 Setup screen appears.

Choosing the operating system

1. To begin installation, select Next.

You are prompted to select an operating system.

2. To change to Windows for Workgroups or

DOS, select Change.

2-8 Getting Started

You are asked to choose the operating system you want to install.

3. Select No, I want to install MS-DOS 6.22

and Microsoft Windows for Workgroups

3.1.

An Electronic License Agreement appears.

4. Read the agreement and select I Accept.

Your computer hardware is configured. When finished, a Finishing Setup window appears.

5. Press Finish to restart your computer.

Loading Windows for Workgroups

You are prompted to remove all disks from the floppy disk drives.

6. Remove any floppy disks from the floppy

disk drive and select OK. Your computer restarts.

Creating Recovery Disk

Registering your computer

You are prompted to create a recovery disk. Follow instructions on the screen to insert the disk and copy system files.

1. At the MS-DOS 6.22 Startup Menu, select

one of the following:

• Windows for Workgroups with PC Card support

• Windows for Workgroups with Media Bay CD-ROM

2. Select OK.

You are prompted to register your computer.

3. Select OK to continue the setup or Register Now to register.

When you press OK or upon completion of registration, you are taken to the Windows desktop. Installation of your operating system is complete.

Getting Started 2-9

Loading Windows 95

If you have decided to load Windows 95, follow these steps:

Loading PHDISK

Loading PHDISK creates an area on your hard disk drive which stores information upon disk shutdown. This partition is created automatically when you startup your computer for the first time.

Choosing the operating system

Complete the following steps to the operating system and setup files for your operating system and perform system analysis.

1. When the Welcome to Windows 95 screen appears, read the screen and press C to continue.

You are prompted to reset your system.

2. Press any key. Your system is reset and the Windows 95

Setup screen appears.

3. To begin installation, select Next. You are prompted to select an operating

system.

Loading Windows 95

2-10 Getting Started

4. To accept the default of Windows 95, select Next.

You are prompted to configure your computer.

5. Press Next.

6. Follow instructions on your screen to complete Windows 95 setup.

You are prompted to finish Windows 95 setup by restarting your computer.

7. Press Finish to select the default of restarting your computer.

Loading Windows 95

You are prompted to remove all disks from the floppy disk drives.

8. Click OK to restart your computer.

Configuring your system

Since this is the first time Windows 95 has been started, the computer will advance through some initial file setup as it loads.

You are asked to make selections from the Regional Settings screen.

1. Make selections and press Next. You are prompted for the keyboard layout

you wish to use.

2. Highlight the keyboard layout you wish to use and select Next.

Your international settings are loaded. You are prompted for user information.

3. Enter your name and company and press Next.

You are prompted to accept or decline the License Agreement.

4. Select Accept and press Next. You are prompted for the Certificate of

Authenticity number.

5. Enter the number (located in your Microsoft Documentation Kit) and press Next.

6. Select Finish to complete the initial startup of Windows 95.

7. Follow any further instructions on your screen.

8. When the Date/Time Properties screen appears, select your time zone, enter the correct date and time, and press Close.

Getting Started 2-11

Loading Windows 95

9. Select Ok.

You will be asked to reboot your computer for settings to take effect.

Your computer is rebooted and Windows 95 setup continues.

Finishing Setup

The final steps to system setup create a recovery disk and load the Microsoft Plus Pack (containing backgrounds, cursors, and a system agent that provides programs for system analysis).

1. If you do not wish to tour Windows 95, select Close.

The Microsoft Plus Pack is installed. You are taken to Desktop Themes to select a theme (background, etc.) for your desktop.

2. Select a theme and press Ok.

3. You are taken to DOS and asked to create a recovery disk.

4. Follow instructions on the screen to create the recovery disk and press any key to continue.

You are returned to the Windows 95 desktop.

2-12 Getting Started

Loading Windows NT

Windows NT Setup

After gathering information, you are ready to

Loading Windows NT

run the setup program. The first time you turn on your computer, your system automatically runs the Windows NT Setup. The following steps help you through the Windows NT Setup.

1. Turn on your computer. After displaying several preparatory

screens, the computer displays the Software License Agreement.

2. Read the agreement and click I Agree to continue.

The program displays the Windows NT Setup screen.

3. Click on Next. The program displays the Name and

Organization screen.

4. Type in your name and company then click on Next.

The program prompts you for the number on your Certificate of Authenticity.

5. Enter the number (located in your Microsoft Documentation Kit) and press Next.

The program prompts you to identify your computer with a name that has 15 or fewer characters and is unique on your computer network.

6. Type in the computer name and click on Next.

The program asks you to enter and confirm a password of 14 or fewer characters for the Administrator account. The password is case sensitive.

Getting Started 2-13

Loading Windows NT

7. Type the password in the spaces next to

8. Click Back to review what you have entered

9. When you are satisfied with the information

both Password and Confirm Password, and click on Next.

You are given an opportunity to make changes before continuing.

and make changes.

you have entered, click Next to continue. The program installs Windows NT and asks

you to click to restart the computer.

Starting Windows NT for the first time

After you click on the Restart button, follow these steps to start Windows NT for the first time.

1. Click on the Restart button. The computer starts to reload Windows NT.

After some preliminary activity the computer pauses on a screen with the startup options for the computer.

2. Press Enter to continue with the default option.

The Window NT initial screen appears.

3. Press Ctrl-Alt-Del to log on. The program asks you for the Administrator

password.

4. Type the password exactly as you defined it during the setup process and press Enter.

The Windows NT desktop appears with the Windows NT welcome screen.

5. Close the welcome screen, and your computer is ready to use.

2-14 Getting Started

Running the Demo Program

Note: The demo program does not run under Windows NT.

Contents of the demo program

Running the demo

After completing setup, you can run a multimedia demo program. This program is entertaining and informative and includes the following information.

• The features of your computer and how to use them

• The livegear

™ – accessories available for

your computer

• The software loaded on your computer

• How to get service and technical support

• More about Texas Instruments

To run the demo program, do one of the following.

In Windows 95

1. Click on Start.

2. Point to TravelMate Notebook Center.

3. Click on Interactive Demo.

In Windows for Workgroups

Stopping the demo program

1. From the Program Manager double-click on the TravelMate Notebook Center icon.

2. Double-click on the TravelMate 6100 Demo icon.

To stop the demo, follow these steps.

1. Move the cursor to the middle of the screen.

2. Double-click the primary mouse button. The main demo screen appears.

Getting Started 2-15

Running the Demo Program

3. Move the cursor away from the boxes and click the primary mouse button once.

An Exit button appears.

4. Click on the Exit button and select Yes to exit.

A window with software credits appears.

5. Select Click Here to exit.

Deleting the demo program

An uninstall program helps you delete all or part of the demo program to free up space on your hard disk drive. The way you get to the program to remove the demo program depends on your operating system.

In Windows 95

1. Click on Start.

2. Point to the TravelMate Notebook Center.

3. Click on Uninstall Interactive Demo.

In Windows for Workgroups

1. In the Program Manager double-click on the TravelMate Notebook Center icon.

2. Double-click on the Uninstall Demo icon.

2-16 Getting Started

Installing Internal Accessories

This chapter describes how to install the accessories that reside inside the computer.

Preventing Damage from Static Electricity 2

Installing Memory Modules 3

Installing Modular Bay Accessories 10

Installing PC Cards

If possible, use a grounding strap. . . . . . . . 3-2

What to do if you don’t have a

grounding strap. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2

Use the antistatic bag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2

Operate the computer with something in the

modular bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2

Tools required . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3

Maximum memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3

Preparing the computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3

Locating the keyboard latches . . . . . . . . . . 3-3

Removing the keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5

Inserting the memory module. . . . . . . . . . . 3-6

Replacing the keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7

Connecting power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7

Running PHDISK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7

In Windows 95 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7

In Windows for Workgroups . . . . . . . . . 3-8

Using the modular bay. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10

Changing modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11

Using PC cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-13

Inserting a PC card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-13

Removing a PC card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-14

Configuring Ethernet PC cards. . . . . . . . . 3-14

Installing Internal Accessories 3-1

Preventing Damage from Static Electricity

If possible, use a grounding strap

What to do if you don’t have a grounding strap

Use the antistatic bag

Internal accessories, especially memory, are vulnerable to damage from static electricity while they are out of the computer. Although modular bay accessories and PC cards are hardened against static electricity, ideally, you should use a wrist grounding strap when handling memory modules or other electrostatically sensitive devices.

If you do not have a grounding strap, you still need to protect your computer and accessories from static electricity. Follow these steps before opening the computer or handling internal accessories.

1. Sit down. Static electricity builds up as you

walk around.

2. Touch a large, grounded appliance, for

example an external monitor, to discharge static electricity.

It is now safe to open the computer or handle internal accessories.

If you received the internal accessory in an antistatic bag, the accessory is sensitive to static electricity. Always keep the accessory in its antistatic bag until you are ready to install the accessory.

Preventing Damage from Static Electricity

Operate the computer with something in the modular bay

3-2 Installing Internal Accessories

Operating the computer with the modular bay empty can give static electricity access to sensitive components inside the computer. Before operating the computer, make sure the modular bay contains something: a drive module, a second battery, or a weight-reduction module.

Installing Memory Modules

Tools required

Maximum memory

Preparing the computer

• Small, flat-blade screwdriver

• Wrist grounding straps (recommended) Your computer has three slots for memory

modules and comes with a 32-MB module standard in slot 2. The other two slots hold 8-MB or 32-MB modules. This gives your computer a maximum possible memory of 96 MB.

Note: The computer is not compatible with 16-MB memory modules.

The installation procedure involves opening up the computer. Before proceeding, follow these steps to protect yourself and your computer.

1. Turn off the computer.

2. Disconnect the AC adapter from the

computer.

3. Remove all battery packs.

4. Ground yourself following the instructions

on the previous page.

Installing Memory Modules

Locating the keyboard latches

The keyboard has three small plastic latches that hold it in place. These latches are along the rear of the keyboard.

Installing Internal Accessories 3-3

Installing Memory Modules

3-4 Installing Internal Accessories

Installing Memory Modules

Removing the keyboard

Follow these steps to remove the keyboard.

1. Insert a small, flat-blade screwdriver into

the depression between the back of the keyboard and the base of the computer at the leftmost latch.

2. Carefully rotate the screwdriver backward to

move the keyboard from under the left latch.

3. Repeat steps 1 and 2 for the center and

right latches.

4. Rotate the keyboard toward you until it

rests flat on top of the hand rest. Be careful not to kink or disconnect the two ribbon cables connected to the keyboard.

5. Lift out the keyboard support.

keyboard support

Installing Internal Accessories 3-5

Installing Memory Modules

Inserting the memory module

The system board has three slots for memory modules, one of which is already occupied by the factory-installed memory. You can insert a 8-MB or 32-MB module in any of the slots.

Follow these steps to insert a memory module.

1. Remove the memory module from the

antistatic bag.

2. Insert the memory module into one of the

slots. The memory modules are keyed to insert in only one direction.

slots 1, 2, and 3

(8 or 32 MB)

3. Align the connector edge of the memory

module with the key in the connector.

4. Insert the edge of the memory module board

into the connector matching the key on the memory board with the tab near the center of the memory connector. Use a rocking motion to fully insert the module. The module should snap into the connector.

5. Push downward on each side of the memory

module until it snaps in place.

6. If you are installing two memory modules,

repeat steps 1 - 5.

3-6 Installing Internal Accessories

Installing Memory Modules

Replacing the keyboard

Connecting power

Follow these steps to put the keyboard back in place.

1. Insert the keyboard support.

2. Insert the four tabs on the bottom of the

keyboard into the corresponding slots on the top cover.

3. Rotate the keyboard back into position so

that the keyboard is resting on top of the latches.

4. Starting with the rightmost latch, lightly

press down on the keyboard to the right of each latch until the keyboard snaps into place.

After replacing the keyboard, complete the following steps.

1. Ground yourself.

2. Insert any battery packs you wish to insert.

3. Connect AC power if desired (or if you do

not have batteries inserted).

4. Turn on power to the computer.

Running PHDISK

For Windows 95 and DOS and Windows for Workgroups users only, you must run the PHDISK utility after installing additional memory to increase the size of the save-to-disk file.

Note: This procedure is not needed for the Windows NT operating system.

In Windows 95

Follow these steps if your computer is running Windows 95.

Installing Internal Accessories 3-7

Installing Memory Modules

1. From the Taskbar, select Start then Shut

Down.

2. Select Restart the Computer in MS-DOS

mode.

3. Click on Yes.

4. Type PHDISK /D /F at the DOS prompt

and press Enter. The Save to Disk partition is deleted.

5. Press any key to reset the system.

The computer restarts.

6. From the Taskbar, select Start then Shut

Down.

7. Select Restart the Computer in MS-DOS

mode.

8. Type PHDISK /C /F and press Enter.

The Save to Disk file and partition are created. You are prompted to press any key to reset the computer.

9. Press any key to reset.

In Windows for Workgroups

Follow these steps if your computer is running MS-DOS and Windows for Workgroups.

1. Close all applications and exit Windows for

Workgroups to MS-DOS.

2. At the command prompt (typically C:\) type

PHDISK /D /F and press Enter. The Save to Disk partition is deleted.

3. Press any key to reset the system.

The computer restarts.

3-8 Installing Internal Accessories

Installing Memory Modules

4. When the Startup menu appears, select

option 3, MS-DOS prompt with PC card support and press Enter.

5. Type PHDISK /C /F and press Enter.

The Save to Disk file and partition are created.You are prompted to press any key to reset the computer.

6. Press any key to reset.

Installing Internal Accessories 3-9

Installing Modular Bay Accessories

Using the modular bay

By using the modular bay on your computer,

Installing Modular Bay Accessories

you can modify your computer as your needs change. The modular bay can accept the following accessories.

Accessory Added Functionality

Floppy disk drive module*

CD-ROM drive module*

Second battery pack

Hard disk drive module

Avatar module

Weightreduction module

drive

Read from and save to standard

3.5-inch floppy disks Read from audio CD, photo CD, or

CD-ROM Doubles the time you can operate

on battery power; allows hotswapping of batteries

Substantially increases the hard disk capacity on your computer

Gives you more than 200 MB of extended storage on removable media

Reduces the carrying weight by around 1/2 pound (225 g) when a drive accessory or battery is unnecessary

Cellular Battery Charger Module

Organizer Module

* Standard in the TravelMate 6100.

3-10 Installing Internal Accessories

Recharges specified cellular phone batteries.

Provides a means to download information to your computer from a compatible TI organizer.

Installing Modular Bay Accessories

Changing modules

Follow these steps to change modules.

1. Turn off the computer.

2. Press the release latch on the right side of

the computer.

release latch

3. Lift the front of the computer slightly and

pull out the accessory currently in the modular bay.

4. Remove the new accessory from its carrying

container.

Note: If you are installing the cellular battery charger or organizer module, follow instructions to insert the product into the module first. Refer to your installation instructions.

5. Slide the new accessory into the modular

bay and push the accessory until it latches into place.

6. Place the original accessory into an optional

carrying container if available and store in a safe place.

7. Turn on the computer.

Installing Internal Accessories 3-11

Installing Modular Bay Accessories

Note: Do not insert a cellular battery into the bay while a notebook battery is installed in the computer.

3-12 Installing Internal Accessories

Installing PC Cards

Using PC cards

The computer can accept two PCMCIA Type I or

Installing PC Cards

II cards or one Type III card. The following PC cards are available from Texas Instruments.

Note: Use of the internal modem is recommended in units designed for U.S. and Canada.

PC Card Added Functionality

28.8 kB/second Speakerphone Modem

28.8 kB/second cellular modem

Token Ring Connects to a token-ring local

Ethernet twisted pair

MPEG playback card

10BaseT/

High-speed, data/fax/voice; uses computer microphone and speaker for speakerphone

High-speed, data/fax; connects to cellular phone

area network Connects to an Ethernet local

area network Full-motion video

Inserting a PC card

In Windows 95, you can insert PC cards while the computer is running. Windows for Workgroups and Windows NT users must turn off the computer before inserting PC cards. Follow these steps to insert a PC card.

Note: A 28.8 kB/second Speakerphone Modem must go in the upper slot. An

MPEG playback

card must go in the lower slot.

1. In the PC card slot, press an eject button to

eject a filler card. If you are installing a Type III card, press both eject buttons.

Installing Internal Accessories 3-13

Installing PC Cards

Removing a PC card

eject button for upper PC card PC card

2. Insert the connector end of the PC card

label-side up into the slot.

3. Gently push the PC card in as far as it can

go.

4. Save the filler card for later use.

For ease of access your computer does not cover the slots for the PC cards. For this reason it is important at all times to have both slots occupied by a PC card or a filler card.

filler cards

eject button for lower

Whenever you remove a PC card, replace it with the original filler card.

Configuring Ethernet PC cards

3-14 Installing Internal Accessories

Some Ethernet cards expect to use a portion of memory reserved for the video adapter. If this happens, you must reconfigure the Ethernet

Installing PC Cards

card. Refer to the TravelMate Online Manual for instructions.

Note: Computers running Windows NT, Windows for Workgroups, and Unix require that you disable Plug and Play functionality to recognize new cards installed.

, could

Installing Internal Accessories 3-15

Setting Up Your Desktop

Although your computer gives you high performance wherever you are, you can make your computer more usable as a workstation by setting up your desktop properly. This chapter describes your options while preparing your computer to function like a permanent workstation.

Preparing To Install External Accessories 3

Installing a DockMate Docking Solution 5

Connecting a Keyboard 8

Connecting a Pointing Device 9

Connecting a Monitor 10

Adding external accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3

Environmental considerations . . . . . . . . . . 4-3

Available accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4

Advantages of a DockMate Docking Solution4-5

DockMate models. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5

What you need before installing . . . . . . . . . 4-5

Installation procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6

Configuring the computer for a DockMate . 4-7

Required cables/connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8

Connecting to a DockMate . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8

Connecting directly to computer. . . . . . . . . 4-8

Required cables/connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9

Connecting to a DockMate . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9

Connecting directly to computer. . . . . . . . . 4-9

Required cables/connectors . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10

Connecting to a DockMate . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10

Connecting directly to computer. . . . . . . . 4-10

Supported monitors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-11

Operating the computer with an

external monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-11

Connecting a Numeric Keypad Accessory 13

Required cables/connectors . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13

Connecting to a DockMate . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13

Connecting directly to computer. . . . . . . . 4-13

Setting Up Your Desktop 4-1

Setting Up Your Desktop

Connecting an External Floppy Disk Drive 14

Connecting a Printer

Connecting Sound Equipment 16

Connecting the Modem 18

Securing the Computer 19

Feature Port 20

Required cables/connectors . . . . . . . . . . . 4-14

Connecting directly to computer. . . . . . . . 4-14

Required cables/connectors . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15

Connecting to a DockMate . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15

Connecting directly to computer. . . . . . . . 4-15

Installing a printer driver . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15

Types of sound equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-16

Connecting to a DockMate Plus . . . . . . . . 4-16

Connecting directly to computer. . . . . . . . 4-16

Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-18

Software. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-18

Connecting the modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-18

Securing your computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-19

Required lock. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-19

Connecting the Kensington lock . . . . . . . . 4-19

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-19

4-2 Setting Up Your Desktop

Preparing To Install External Accessories

Adding external accessories

Environmental considerations

There are several reasons to add external

Preparing To Install External Accessories

accessories to your computer.

Advantage Example

Increased functionality Printers, higher resolution

monitors

Improved comfort and ergonomics

Convenience DockMate™ Docking

Keyboard, pointing devices

Solution, numeric keypad, external floppy disk drive

Under most circumstances an office or home environment falls within the specifications for your computer. The one exception is relative humidity. On cold winter days the relative humidity indoors often falls below 20%. During the winter you should protect your computer and external accessories from electrostatic discharge by spraying the carpet around your work area with antistatic spray or by installing an antistatic mat.

Setting Up Your Desktop 4-3

Preparing To Install External Accessories

Available accessories

The following external accessories are available for your computer.

Accessory What it adds

DockMate Easy connect/disconnect to desktop

accessories

DockMate Plus

DockMate Net Ready

Keyboard Comfort, ease of use, better

Pointing device

Monitor Larger viewing area, increased

Monitor stand Less desk space used because

Easy connect/disconnect to desktop accessories; connection to SCSI devices

Easy connect/disconnect to desktop accessories; connection to Local Area Networks via Ethernet

ergonomics Ease of use, better ergonomics

resolution, more comfortable view height

DockMate and computer can fit below external monitor; better management of cables

Numeric keypad

Floppy disk drive cable

Printer Hard copy Sound Headphone, more powerful speakers/

Kensington lock

4-4 Setting Up Your Desktop

Convenience for entering numbers when external keyboard not attached

Access to floppy disk drive while modular bay loaded with another accessory

microphone

Theft deterrence

Installing a DockMate Docking Solution

Advantages of a DockMate Docking Solution

DockMate models

A DockMate Docking Solution connects to the back of your computer and replicates the various ports on the computer. A DockMate connected to your computer has the following advantages.

• Saves time disconnecting and reconnecting

computer to external accessories

• Adds functionality depending on DockMate

model

• Reduces risk of damage to computer

connectors

Three DockMate models allow easy connection and disconnection to external accessories. All models have two PS/2 connect both a keyboard and a mouse. The DockMate Plus and DockMate Net Ready models have additional connectivity options.

• DockMate Plus includes a fast SCSI II

connection, space for an optional small form-factor PCI card, stereo speakers, and external sound connections.

ports, allowing you to

Installing a DockMate Docking Solution

What you need before installing

• DockMate Net Ready includes a

ThunderLAN™ Ethernet connection.

Note: The DockMate Plus model has an AC adapter. When connecting the computer to a DockMate Plus, connect AC adapters to both the DockMate Plus and the computer.

A DockMate connects easily without tools to the rear of your computer.

Each external accessory needs a cable. While most accessories except for printers have builtin cables, older accessories might require

Setting Up Your Desktop 4-5

Installing a DockMate Docking Solution

pegs

latch

adapters to fit the connectors on the DockMate.

• Serial cables with 25-pin connectors require

an adapter to fit a 9-pin connector

• Older keyboards require an adapter to fit a

PS/2 port

Many connectors have screws attached to secure the connection. If you want to secure the connectors to the DockMate, you might need a small screwdriver.

Installation procedure

To connect your computer to a DockMate Docking Solution, follow these steps.

Note: You might find it easier to connect all of the external accessories to the DockMate before docking the computer.

1. Turn off the computer.

2. Open the access door on the back of the

computer.

3. Lift the latch on the DockMate.

4. Lower the back of the computer onto the

pegs on the DockMate.

5. Close the latch.

6. Follow the installation procedure

accompanying your DockMate model to complete the installation.

4-6 Setting Up Your Desktop

Installing a DockMate Docking Solution

Configuring the computer for a DockMate

Follow these steps to configure the computer to work with a DockMate docking solution.

1. Turn on the computer or restart the

computer if it is already on.

2. Before the computer starts to load the

operating system, press F2 to go into setup mode.

3. Press → to highlight the Advanced tab.

4. Press ↓ to highlight Dock B Integrated

Peripherals.

5. Press Enter.

6. Press the space bar until the Dock Type

matches your DockMate model.

7. Press Esc twice, then press Enter to save

and exit setup.

8. Press Enter to continue.

Setting Up Your Desktop 4-7

Connecting a Keyboard

Required cables/ connectors

Connecting to a DockMate

Connecting directly to computer

Keyboards almost always have a built-in cable.

Connecting a Keyboard

Most keyboards today have a PS/2 connector and can connect directly to the PS/2 port on the DockMate or on the computer.

Older keyboards have larger connectors, which require a PS/2 adapter.

Each DockMate model has two PS/2 ports — one for a keyboard and one for a pointing device. You should connect the keyboard to the PS/2 port on the side of the DockMate.

keyboard port

DockMate

DockMate Plus

The computer has one PS/2 port. Connect an external keyboard to this port.

4-8 Setting Up Your Desktop

keyboard port

Connecting a Pointing Device

Required cables/ connectors

Connecting to a DockMate

A mouse, glidepad, trackball, or other pointing

Connecting a Pointing Device

device comes with a built-in cable. Most pointing devices have a PS/2 connector, although some may have a serial connector.

If you are not connecting to a DockMate and have an external keyboard connected, you must connect the pointing device to the serial port. In this case, you might need an adapter to convert the PS/2 connector for the pointing device to a 9-pin serial connector.

Each DockMate model has two PS/2 ports — one for a keyboard and one for a pointing device. You should connect the pointing device to the PS/2 port on the rear of the DockMate.

mouse port

DockMate

DockMate Plus

Connecting directly to computer

The computer has one PS/2 port.

• If you have not connected an external

keyboard, you can connect the pointing device to the PS/2 port.

• If you have connected an external keyboard,

connect a pointing device to the serial port.

PS/2 port

serial port

Setting Up Your Desktop 4-9

Connecting a Monitor

Required cables/ connectors

Connecting to a DockMate

Connecting directly to computer

External monitors usually have a built-in cable.

Connecting a Monitor

Monitor cables use a standard connector, so an adapter is probably not required.

Connect the cable to the video out port on the rear of the DockMate.

video out

DockMate

port

DockMate Plus

Connect the cable to the video out port on the rear of the computer.

video out port

4-10 Setting Up Your Desktop

Connecting a Monitor

Supported monitors

Operating the computer with an external monitor

Your computer has built-in support for the following resolutions and colors.

Resolution No. of Colors

640 x 480 256, 64K, 16.8M 800 x 600 256, 64K 1024 x 768 256

If your monitor has special requirements, follow the directions provided by the manufacturer of your monitor to install the correct driver.

Windows 95, Windows for Workgroups, and Windows NT have utilities that allow you to select whether you want the visual image displayed on the external monitor, on the local screen, or on both.

Operating System Utility

Windows 95 Select Start/Settings/

Control Panel/Display/ NeoMagic. Select the Display Options button

to bring up a window that allows you to change your display.

Windows for Workgroups Change display from

the Control Panel by selecting Video Configuration.

Setting Up Your Desktop 4-11

Connecting a Monitor

Windows NT Y ou can use the Fn-F12

Operating System Utility

function key to toggle between viewing the image on the internal screen, an external monitor, or both.

Some external monitors use resolutions that are incompatible with the screen on the computer. When this is the case, you cannot view both the computer screen and the monitor at the same time.

Refer to the TravelMate Online Manual for instructions on using these utilities.

Note: External monitors can use many resolutions that are incompatible with the screen on the computer. When this is the case, you cannot view both the computer screen and the monitor at the same time.

4-12 Setting Up Your Desktop

Connecting a Numeric Keypad Accessory

Required cables/ connectors

Connecting to a DockMate

Connecting directly to computer

The numeric keypad accessory comes with an

Connecting a Numeric Keypad Accessory

integrated cable and is designed to connect to the keyboard PS/2 port.

You cannot use the numeric keypad accessory and an external keyboard at the same time.

Each DockMate model has two PS/2 ports — one for a keyboard and one for a pointing device. You should connect the numeric keypad accessory to the PS/2 port on the side of the DockMate.

PS/2 port

DockMate

DockMate Plus

The computer has one PS/2 port. Connect the numeric keypad accessory to this port.

PS/2 port

Setting Up Your Desktop 4-13

Connecting an External Floppy Disk Drive

Required cables/ connectors

Connecting directly to computer

With the addition of a special cable, you can

Connecting an External Floppy Disk Drive

connect the floppy disk drive module to the parallel port. This enables you to have another device in the modular bay and still use floppy disks.

The floppy disk drive can only be connected directly to the computer. You cannot connect the

floppy disk drive to the parallel port on a DockMate Docking Solution.

Follow these steps to connect an external floppy disk drive module directly to your computer.

1. Turn off the computer.

2. Connect the cable to the parallel port on the

back of the computer.

parallel port

3. Connect the other end of the cable to the

4-14 Setting Up Your Desktop

connector on the back of the floppy disk drive module.

Connecting a Printer

Required cables/ connectors

Connecting to a DockMate

Connecting directly to computer

Most printers do not ship with a cable, so you may need to buy one.

Most printers connect through the parallel port on the computer using a standard, Centronics™-type parallel cable.

If you are connecting a printer to a DockMate, connect it to the parallel port on the back of the DockMate.

parallel port

DockMate

If you are connecting a printer directly to your computer, connect it to the parallel port on the back of the computer.

DockMate Plus

Connecting a Printer

Installing a printer driver

parallel port

Your operating system supports a wide range of printers. If your printer is not supported by the operating system, follow the instructions provided with your printer to install a driver.

Setting Up Your Desktop 4-15

Connecting Sound Equipment

Types of sound equipment

Connecting to a DockMate Plus

Your computer has a 16-bit sound card, stereo

Connecting Sound Equipment

speakers, and a built-in microphone. By adding external sound equipment, you can improve the quality of sound production and increase convenience. When purchasing external sound equipment, keep the following in mind.

• Speakers and headphones— connect to the

audio-out port on a DockMate Plus or the computer; speakers must have own source of power

• Microphone — connects to the microphone

port on the computer or DockMate Plus

Note: Connecting external sound equipment disables the corresponding internal sound functions of the device to which it is connected.

The following illustrations show the audio connections on a DockMate Plus.

Connecting directly to computer

The following illustration shows the audio connection on the computer.

4-16 Setting Up Your Desktop

microphone headphones/speakers audio in

Connecting Sound Equipment

audio in

microphone

headphones/speakers

Setting Up Your Desktop 4-17

Connecting the Modem

TravelMate 6100 models developed for the U.S. and Canada contain an internal modem. International customers use the PCMCIA card and port for modem connection.

Description

Software

Connecting the modem

The internal modem supports the U.S. Robotics Sportster V.34 AT commands for:

• Data (33.6K) mode. This modem is capable

of downloading at speeds of up to 56K if the host computer supports 56K speeds.

• Class 1 Fax and Class 2 Fax (14.4K) modes

The internal modem board uses Smith-Micro’s QuickLink Message Center software. For information on software setup, refer to the QuickLink Message Center Software User’s Guide.

The internal modem is designed to work on U.S. and Canadian phone lines.

To use the modem, connect one end of the modem to the notebook and the other to the wall jack.

Connecting the Modem

4-18 Setting Up Your Desktop

Securing the Computer

Securing your computer

Required lock

Connecting the Kensington lock

The possibility of computer theft always exists.

Securing the Computer

While the computer itself can be replaced, the data it contains may be irreplaceable. An investment of a few dollars and a few moments can prevent a disaster.

You can secure your computer using a standard Kensington lock. If your computer store does not carry Kensington locks, you can buy one directly from Texas Instruments.

Follow these instructions to secure your computer using a Kensington lock.

1. Secure the looped end of the Kensington

lock cable to a permanent fixture within reach of your computer.

2. Insert the Kensington lock into the slot on

the left side of the computer.

slot for Kensington lock

3. Turn the key so that the Kensington lock is

attached to the computer.

4. Remove the key from the lock.

Setting Up Your Desktop 4-19

Feature Port

A feature port exists on your system. This port

Feature Port

is provides the capability to expand your unit as further enhancements become available.

feature port

4-20 Setting Up Your Desktop

Installing Software

Installing software on your computer is not much different than installing software on any computer. This chapter provides some guidance to help you select and install software.

Selecting Software for the Computer

Loading Software

Special Considerations

Purchasing new software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2

Using existing software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2

Loading software from floppy disks . . . . . . 5-4

Advantages of using your CD-ROM

module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4

Loading software from CD-ROM . . . . . . . . 5-4

Screen resolution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5

Sound settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5

Installing Software 5-1

Selecting Software for the Computer

Purchasing new software

Using existing software

When purchasing new software for your computer, check the carton and make sure the software is compatible with your computer in the following ways:

• Operating system — If the program is

Windows-based, make sure it matches the operating system you have loaded on your computer.

MS-DOS-based software should work regardless of the operating system you loaded on your computer.

• Minimum requirements — Make sure your

computer has enough memory, screen resolution, and processor speed for the software.

If you already have some software you want to load on the computer, you might as well try loading it.

Many software applications written for Windows for Workgroups or Windows 95 can also work under Windows NT. You may want to try loading an application that you already own.

Selecting Software for the Computer

5-2 Installing Software

Selecting Software for the Computer

• If it works without any problems, you do not

need to do anything else.

• If it fails to work, you may be able to order

an upgrade to the package that does work at only a fraction of the cost of a full software package.

Installing Software 5-3

Loading Software

Loading software from floppy disks

Advantages of using your CD-ROM module

Your computer has a standard 3.5-inch floppy disk drive. If you are loading software from floppy disks, insert disk 1 into the floppy disk drive (Drive A) and follow the directions for installing the software.

There are at least four good reasons to have access to a CD-ROM drive module for your computer.

• Many software packages are available only

on CD-ROM.

• Many others that are available on floppy

disks have additional files and reference material that is only available on the CD-ROM versions.

• Software manufacturers frequently charge

more, sometimes much more, for floppy disk versions.

• Loading software packages from floppy

disks takes longer and is more cumbersome.

Loading Software

Loading software from

CD-ROM

5-4 Installing Software

If you are loading software from a CD-ROM, insert the CD-ROM disc label-side up into the carrier for the optional CD-ROM drive module and close the CD-ROM drive (Drive D). Follow the directions for installing the software.

Special Considerations

Screen resolution

Sound settings

Some software packages require a specific

Special Considerations

screen resolution (usually VGA) for optimal performance. If you have selected a different resolution, you may need to adjust the screen resolution before running the software.

Note: The display is fixed at SVGA. For the computer to fill the screen with a VGA resolution, it must interpolate the image, which substantially reduces visual quality. If possible, run VGA displays without adjusting resolution. The image area is smaller, but the quality is much better.

Some, mostly older software packages require you to provide information about your sound card. Here is the information you might need.

Sound Card Sound Blaster™ Pro 16 Base memory 220H DMA 1 IRQ 7

Installing Software 5-5

Battery Operation

When you are using your computer away from your desktop, you are usually running on battery power. This chapter shows you how to maximize your battery life.

General Information about Batteries

Charging Batteries

Prolonging Battery Life

Responding to a Low Battery Condition

Battery characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2

Battery safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2

Disposing of used battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3

Ordering a spare battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3

Determining current charge . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4

Charging the battery in the computer . . . . 6-4

Increasing BatteryPro level . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6

Reducing screen brightness . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6

Caching the hard disk drive . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6

Lowering inactivity timeouts . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7

Removing FDD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7

Suspending operation while idle . . . . . . . . 6-7

Save to disk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-8

Saving files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-8

Turning off alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-8

Reducing screen brightness . . . . . . . . . . . 6-8

Connecting AC adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-8

Suspending operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-8

Replacing battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-9

Suspending to Disk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-9

Battery Operation 6-1

General Information about Batteries

Battery characteristics

Battery safety

The battery pack fits into either the primary

General Information about Batteries

battery slot on the left of the computer or in the modular bay on the right of the computer.

The batteries have the following characteristics.

• Type: Lithium-ion (Li-Ion)

• Maximum charge: 35 Watt Hours

• Average life of charge: 2 to 3 hours per

battery

• Conditioning is not required

The following general guidelines, as well as local codes and ordinances, must be followed when handling and replacing all batteries:

• Dispose of a used battery promptly.

• Do not dispose of a battery in fire or water.

• Keep batteries away from children.

• Do not puncture the battery case or

disassemble.

• If a battery is leaking, do not touch the

electrolyte.

6-2 Battery Operation

• Do not short-circuit the battery. Burns may

result.

• Do not expose to temperatures greater than

60°C.

General Information about Batteries

Disposing of used battery

Ordering a spare battery

Always dispose of used batteries in accordance with local regulations. Battery recycling is available in some areas.

The computer ships with a single battery. To order a second battery for use in the modular bay or simply as a spare, call your computer dealer or call Texas Instruments at

1-800-TI-TEXAS.

Battery Operation 6-3

Charging Batteries

Determining current charge

The battery has four green indicators that light,

Charging Batteries

when the computer is on, to show the charge remaining in the battery. The following table shows how to interpret the indicators.

Number of

indicators lit

None Fully charged 1 Less than 25% 2 26% - 50% 3 51% - 75% 4 76% - 99%

Charge remaining

in battery

The battery also has a red indicator with the following meanings.

On — Less the 10% charge remaining Blinking — Battery not accepting a charge

Note: The battery indicators are turned off to conserve the battery charge when the computer is disconnected from external power. To illuminate the battery indicators briefly, press the white circle on the front of the battery.

Charging the battery in the computer

6-4 Battery Operation

Follow these steps to charge the battery in the computer.

1. Insert the battery into the computer.

2. Plug in the AC adapter.

3. Connect the computer to the AC adapter.

4. Allow to charge 4 hours if computer is off or

10 hours if computer is on.

Charging Batteries

Note: If you have both batteries installed in the computer, it will take longer to charge the batteries, since the batteries charge in parallel.

Battery Operation 6-5

Prolonging Battery Life

There are a number of actions you can take to reduce the rate at which your computer depletes the battery. By taking some or all of these actions, you can substantially increase the time you can operate on battery power before recharging the battery.

Increasing BatteryPro level

Reducing screen brightness

Caching the hard disk drive

BatteryPro™ is patented software that helps control the rate at which the battery is depleted by reducing the amount of wasted energy. Use the wSetPower program to increase the battery savings level.

Note: wSetPower is not available in Windows NT.

Although the screen controller uses new technology to increase brightness without increasing energy consumption, the screen is still the largest single consumer of the battery charge. Reducing the brightness to the lowest acceptable level increases battery life.

To reduce the brightness, press Fn-↓.

By caching the hard disk drive, you can reduce the length of time the hard drive is rotating and using energy. Both Windows 95 and Windows for Workgroups use a disk-caching program by default. As long as you have not disabled these programs, you can take advantage of the battery savings.

Prolonging Battery Life

6-6 Battery Operation

Prolonging Battery Life

Lowering inactivity timeouts

Removing FDD

Suspending operation while idle

Inactivity timeouts turn off devices in the computer when you are not using them. Lowering the inactivity timeouts shortens the period of time the computer waits before turning off the device.

Inactivity timeouts are defined in the setup programs described in the TravelMate Online Manual.

Although the floppy disk drive module does not use much power while you are not accessing the drive, it does use some. Replacing the floppy disk drive module with a weight-reduction module eliminates all drain on the battery.

Although the computer goes into Suspend mode automatically after a defined period of inactivity, you can reduce energy consumption even further by pressing either Fn-F3 (Suspend) or Fn-F4 (Standby) as soon as you no longer need the computer to be active.

• Pressing Fn-F4 (Standby) turns off the

screen.

• Pressing Fn-F3 (Suspend) turns off the

screen, stops the hard disk drive, and reduces energy usage to the lowest level possible without turning off the computer.

Press the Shift key to resume activity from Suspend or Standby mode.

Battery Operation 6-7

Responding to a Low Battery Condition

Save to disk

Saving files

Turning off alarm

Reducing screen brightness

Connecting AC adapter

During longer periods of inactivity, use the 0 Volt suspend mode (Fn-F2) to save battery charge.

When you are operating the computer on battery power and the charge remaining is down to 20% of the maximum, the low-battery indicator blinks and an audible alarm sounds. When this happens you should take the following actions to conserve battery power and reduce the possibility of data loss.

Save all open files frequently while the computer is in a low-battery condition.

Turn off the audible alarm by pressing Fn-End (Mute).

Reduce screen brightness by pressing Fn-↓.

If you have access to AC power, connect the computer to the AC adapter. You can do this without turning off the computer.

Suspending operations

6-8 Battery Operation

Press Fn-F3 (Suspend) or Fn-F4 (Standby) to put the computer into Suspend or Standby mode whenever you are not actively using the computer. Press the Shift key to bring the computer out of Suspend or Standby mode.

Responding to a Low Battery Condition

Replacing battery

Suspending to Disk

If you have a spare, charged battery, you can do one of the following.

• Insert the spare battery in the modular bay.

• If you already have a battery in the modular

bay, you can replace the primary battery without turning off the computer.

• If you cannot insert the spare battery into

the modular bay, suspend operations to disk by pressing Fn-F2 and replace the battery. When you turn on the computer, the computer returns to the saved state.

When the battery power becomes critically low (less than 10% charge remaining), the computer saves the current state of the computer to disk and turns off. When you turn the computer on again, the computer restores the state that was saved to disk.

Battery Operation 6-9

Mobility

Although notebook computers can replace the desktop computer, the only reason to pay extra for a notebook computer is mobility. This chapter describes all the considerations to help you take advantage of your computer’s mobility.

Overview of Mobility

Disconnecting from the Desktop

Moving Around

Taking the Computer Home

Traveling with the Computer

Traveling Internationally with the Computer

Disconnecting from the desktop . . . . . . . . 7-2

Moving around . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2

Taking the computer home . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2

Traveling with the computer . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2

International traveling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2

Disconnecting from a DockMate . . . . . . . . 7-3

Disconnecting from external accessories . 7-3

Preparing the computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-4

What to bring for short meetings . . . . . . . 7-4

What to bring for long meetings . . . . . . . . 7-4

Preparing the computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5

What to bring with you . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5

Special considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5

Setting up a home office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-6

Preparing the computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-7

What to bring with you . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-7

Special considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-7

Preparing the computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-8

What to bring with you . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-8

Special considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-8

Mobility 7-1

Overview of Mobility

Disconnecting from the desktop

Moving around

T aking the computer home

Traveling with the computer

International traveling

No matter where you are taking your computer, you need to disconnect it from your desktop accessories.

“Moving around” refers to using your computer at different locations within the same building, for example, taking it with you to meetings.

Since you are taking the computer to the same place every night, you can save yourself time and effort by setting up a home desktop.

The farther you get away from home or office, the more important it is to bring the necessary equipment and supplies with you.

Traveling internationally with your computer creates special concerns you need to address before you leave the country.

Overview of Mobility

7-2 Mobility

Disconnecting from the Desktop

Disconnecting from a DockMate

Disconnecting from external accessories

All DockMate Docking Solutions were designed to facilitate connecting and disconnecting the computer. Follow these steps if your computer is connected to a DockMate.

1. Save your work in progress.

2. Shut down the operating system.

3. Turn off the computer.

4. Disconnect the Kensington lock if you are

using one to secure the computer.

5. Lift the release latch on the DockMate.

6. Lift the computer off the DockMate.

Note: Do not use the Eject PC button selection that appears when you select the Windows 95 Start button.

If your computer is connected directly to external accessories, follow these steps.

1. Save your work in progress.

Disconnecting from the Desktop

2. Shut down the operating system.

3. Turn off the computer.

4. Disconnect the cord from the AC adapter.

5. Disconnect the keyboard, pointing device,

printer, external monitor, and other external devices.

6. Disconnect the Kensington lock if you are

using one to secure the computer.

Mobility 7-3

Moving Around

Preparing the computer

What to bring for short meetings

What to bring for long meetings

You can carry the computer without turning off the power. Press Fn-F3 (Suspend) to blank the screen, stop the hard disk drive, and save the current state of the computer. While in Suspend mode, the computer uses only minimal battery charge.

After placing the computer in Suspend mode, close and latch the cover. You can now safely take the computer anywhere you go within the building.

To bring the computer out of Suspend mode, press the Shift key.

A fully charged battery runs the computer for 2-3 hours under most circumstances. If your meeting is shorter than that, you probably do not need to bring anything with you other than the computer.

If your meeting will last longer than 3 hours or if your battery is not fully charged, you may want to bring the AC adapter with you to plug in your computer in the meeting room.

Moving Around

7-4 Mobility

If the meeting room does not have an electrical outlet, you can do the following:

• Double the battery life by inserting a fully

charged battery in the modular bay.

• Reduce the drain on the battery by putting

the computer in Standby or Suspend mode whenever you are not actively using the computer.

Taking the Computer Home

Preparing the computer

What to bring with you

After disconnecting the computer from your desktop, follow these steps to prepare the computer for the trip home.

1. Remove all media from the drive in the

modular bay. Failure to remove the media can damage the drive head.

2. Pack the computer in a protective case that

can prevent the computer from sliding around and cushion it if it should fall.

Caution: Avoid packing items next to the top cover of the computer. Pressure against the top cover can damage the screen.

Unless you already have these items at home, bring the following items with you.

• AC adapter

• Modular bay accessories that you might

need

• The printed user’s manual

Taking the Computer Home

Special considerations

Follow these guidelines to protect your computer while traveling to and from work.

• Minimize the effect of temperature changes

by keeping the computer with you.

• If you need to stop for an extended period of

time and cannot bring the computer with you, leave the computer in the trunk of the car to avoid exposing the computer to excessive heat.

Mobility 7-5

Taking the Computer Home

• Changes in temperature and humidity can

cause condensation. Allow the computer to return to room temperature, and inspect the screen for condensation before turning on the computer. If the temperature change is greater than 18°F (10°C), allow the computer to come to room temperature slowly. If possible, leave the computer for 30 minutes in an environment with a temperature between outside and room temperature.

Setting up a home office

If you frequently work on your computer at home, it may be worthwhile purchasing a second AC adapter for use at home. With a second AC adapter, you can avoid transporting the extra weight to and from home.

If you use your computer at home for significant periods of time, you might also want to add some of the external accessories described in Chapter 4. Which external accessory to add depends on your use of the computer.

• An external pointing device usually

improves convenience and is almost essential if you are using any drawing packages.

• An external keyboard is more comfortable if

you do a lot of typing.

• An external monitor is helpful if you will be

viewing high-resolution graphics.

7-6 Mobility

Traveling with the Computer

Preparing the computer

What to bring with you

Special considerations

Prepare the computer as if you were taking it home.

Be sure that the battery in the computer is charged. Airport security frequently requires you to turn on your computer when bringing it to the gate area.

Bring the following items with you.

• AC adapter

• Modular bay accessories that you might

need

• Spare, fully-charged battery packs

• Additional printer driver files if you plan to

use another printer

• The printed user’s manual

In addition to the guidelines for taking the computer home, follow these guidelines to protect your computer while traveling.

• Always take the computer as carry-on

luggage

Traveling with the Computer

• Have the computer inspected by hand. Do

not put the computer through a security X-ray machine or a metal detector.

Mobility 7-7

Traveling Internationally with the Computer

Preparing the computer

What to bring with you

Special considerations

Prepare the computer as you would normally prepare it for traveling.

Bring the following items with you.

• AC adapter

• Power cords that are appropriate to the

country to which you are traveling

• Modular bay accessories that you might

need

• Spare, fully-charged battery packs

• Additional printer driver files if you plan to

use another printer

• Proof of purchase, in case you need to show

it to Customs officials

• The printed User’s Manual

Follow the same special considerations as when traveling with the computer.

Traveling Internationally with the Computer

7-8 Mobility

Care and Troubleshooting

Regularly take time to check your computer and clean the screen, keyboard, and case to ensure trouble-free computing. If you do experience a problem, use the troubleshooting guide in this chapter to help you correct it quickly.

Cleaning the Computer

Troubleshooting Tips

Cleaning the case . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-2

Cleaning the screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-2

Errors at startup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3

Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4

Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-5

External Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-5

Internal modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-5

Docking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-5

Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-6

Sound . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7

Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-8

Care and Troubleshooting 8-1

Cleaning the Computer

Caution: Never use alcohol, benzene, thinner, or strong chemical agents that could damage the computer case. Never apply liquid directly to the computer, only to a clean cloth. Never spray cleaning fluid or any liquid directly onto the case or screen.

Cleaning the Computer

Cleaning the case

Cleaning the screen

Keep the case of the computer free of dust. Apply a small amount of mild liquid cleaner to a dry, lint-free cloth, and wipe the case with the cloth.

The surface of the screen is covered with a protective plastic film that may become smeared and accumulate dust during use. Avoid touching the screen with your fingers.

Clean the screen regularly by applying a small amount of diluted neutral detergent to a dry, lint-free cloth. Gently rub the surface of the screen with the cloth.

8-2 Care and Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting Tips

Errors at startup

Error Corrective Action

Computer does not come on when power switch is in the on position.

Computer power is on but the screen is blank.

Save-to-disk file is too small

Troubleshooting Tips

• The battery may be low. Use the AC adapter and recharge the battery.

• Ensure the AC adapter cable and power cord are securely connected.

• Connect the AC adapter to another outlet.

• Press Fn-↑ to increase screen brightness.

• Press Shift to terminate Suspend mode.

• The computer may be set to use the external monitor. Press Fn-F12 to switch to the internal screen.

This message occurs when you add memory or compress the save-to-disk file using DRVSPACE. Use the MS-DOS program PHDISK to increase the size of the save-to-disk file. Refer to instructions in Chapter 3 to correct.

Save-to-disk file is missing

Swap file is missing Create a swap file in Windows

Use the MS-DOS program PHDISK to create a new saveto-disk file. Refer to instructions in Chapter 3 to correct.

for Workgroups (Main> Control Panel> Enhanced> Virtual Memory).

Care and Troubleshooting 8-3

Troubleshooting Tips

Keyboard

Event log indicates “Device not found” errors at startup

The special function keys do not work.

This is normal. Windows NT is determining which optional devices are available before loading drives.

The application is overriding computer BIOS interrupts. Notify your application provider.

8-4 Care and Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting Tips

Battery

External monitor

Internal modem

Error Corrective Action

Battery inserted, but LED’s not lit.

Battery Status button pressed, but indicators not lit.

Image on external monitor shifts when viewing LCD and external monitor simultaneously.

Keyboard inputs does not display in HyperTerminal using the internal modem.

Press Battery Status button.

• Make sure AC adapter is plugged into computer and power outlet.

• Insert a different battery. If problem is corrected, first battery is dead. If problem persists, battery charger is defective. Call service.

Monitor is not multisync. Use controls on the monitor to reposition the image.

Type ATE1 and press Enter so that HyperTerminal echoes the keyboard input.

•

Note: Windows for Workgroups echoes the characters by default.

Docking

DockMate does not dock to the notebook.

Computer does not recognize DockMate.

Open the port cover on the computer.

Ensure that software has been properly loaded.

Care and Troubleshooting 8-5

Troubleshooting Tips

PS/2 device connected to computer does not work with PS/2 device connected to DockMate

PS/2 Y cable does not work on DockMate

Move PS/2 device on DockMate to rear PS/2 port.

Y cables only work when connected directly to a computer. DockMate has 2 PS/2 ports, so Y cable not needed.

8-6 Care and Troubleshooting

Texas Instruments 6100 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Copyright

Notice

Contents

Using Documentation

Getting Started

Installing Internal Accessories

Setting Up Your Desktop

Installing Software

Battery Operation

Mobility

Care and Troubleshooting