Toshiba A120 User Manual

User’s Manual

TECRA A8 / Satellite Pro A120

Copyright

© 2006 by TOSHIBA Corporation. All rights reserved. Under the copyright
laws, this manual cannot be reproduced in any form without the prior
written permission of TOSHIBA. No patent liability is assumed, with respect
to the use of the information contained herein.

TOSHIBA TECRA A8 / Satellite Pro A120 Portable Personal Computer
User’s Manual

First edition May 2006
Copyright authority for music, movies, computer programs, data bases and

other intellectual property covered by copyright laws belongs to the author
or to the copyright owner. Copyrighted material can be reproduced only for
personal use or use within the home. Any other use beyond that stipulated
above (including conversion to digital format, alteration, transfer of copied
material and distribution on a network) without the permission of the
copyright owner is a violation of copyright or author’s rights and is subject
to civil damages or criminal action. Please comply with copyright laws in
making any reproduction from this manual.

Disclaimer

This manual has been validated and reviewed for accuracy. The
instructions and descriptions it contains are accurate for the TOSHIBA
TECRA A8 / Satellite Pro A120 Portable Personal Computer at the time of
this manual’s production. However, succeeding computers and manuals
are subject to change without notice. TOSHIBA assumes no liability for
damages incurred directly or indirectly from errors, omissions or
discrepancies between the computer and the manual.

Trademarks

IBM is a registered trademark and IBM PC is a trademark of International
Business Machines Corporation.

Intel, Intel SpeedStep, Intel Core and Centrino are trademarks or registered
trademarks of Intel Corporation or its subsidiaries in the United States and
other countries/regions.

Windows and Microsoft are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
Photo CD is a trademark of Eastman Kodak.
Sonic RecordNow! is a registered trademark of Sonic Solutions.
Bluetooth is a trademark owned by its proprietor and used by TOSHIBA

under license.
i.LINK is trademark and registered trademark of Sony Corporation.
InterVideo and WinDVD are registered trademarks of InterVideo Inc.

WinDVD Creator is trademark of InterVideo Inc.
Other trademarks and registered trademarks not listed above may be used

in this manual.

ii User’s Manual

EU Declaration of Conformity

TOSHIBA declares, that the product: PTA82*/ PTA83*/ PSAC0*/ PSAC1*
conforms to the following Standards:

This product is labelled with the CE Mark in accordance with the related
European Directives, notably Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive
89/ 336/EEC for the notebook and the electronic accessories including the
supplied power adapter, the Radio Equipment and Telecommunications
Terminal Equipment Directive 99/5/EEC in case of implemented
telecommunication accessories and the Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC
for the supplied power adapter.

CE Marking is the responsibility of TOSHIBA EUROPE GmbH,
Hammfelddamm 8, 41460 Neuss, Germany, phone [phone].

For a copy of the related CE Declaration of Conformity please refer to the
following website: http://epps.toshiba-teg.com

This product and the supplied accessories are designed to observe the
related EMC (Electromagnetic Compatibility) and safety standards.
However, Toshiba cannot guarantee that this product still observes these
EMC standards if accessories or cables not manufactured / distributed by
Toshiba are connected or implemented. To avoid in general EMC problems,
the following advice should be observed:

■ Only CE marked accessories should be connected / implemented

■ Only best shielded cables should be connected

Following information is only for EU-member states:

The use of the symbol indicates that this product may not be treated as
household waste. By ensuring this product is disposed of correctly, you will
help prevent potential negative consequences for the environment and
human health, which could otherwise be caused by inappropriate waste
handling of this product. For more detailed information about recycling of
this product, please contact your local city office, your household waste
disposal service or the shop where you purchased the product.

User’s Manual iii

Modem warning notice

Conformity Statement

The equipment has been approved to [Commission Decision “CTR21”] for
pan-European single terminal connection to the Public Switched Telephone
Network (PSTN).

However, due to differences between the individual PSTNs provided in
different countries/regions the approval does not, of itself, give an
unconditional assurance of successful operation on every PSTN network
termination point.

In the event of problems, you should contact your equipment supplier in the
first instance.

Network Compatibility Statement

This product is designed to work with, and is compatible with the following
networks. It has been tested to and found to conform with the additional
requirements conditional in EG 201 121.

Germany ATAAB AN005,AN006,AN007,AN009,AN010

Greece ATAAB AN005,AN006 and GR01,02,03,04
Portugal ATAAB AN001,005,006,007,011 and

Spain ATAAB AN005,007,012, and ES01
Switzerland ATAAB AN002
All other countries/regions ATAAB AN003,004
Specific switch settings or software setup are required for each network,

please refer to the relevant sections of the user guide for more details.
The hookflash (timed break register recall) function is subject to separate

national type approvals. It has not been tested for conformity to national
type regulations, and no guarantee of successful operation of that specific
function on specific national networks can be given.

and DE03,04,05,08,09,12,14,17

P03,04,08,10

iv User’s Manual

Optical disc drive safety instructions

The optical disc drive employs a laser system. To ensure proper use of this
product, please read the manual carefully and retain for future reference.
Should the unit ever require maintenance, contact an authorized service
location.

Use of controls, adjustments or the performance of procedures other than
those specified may result in hazardous radiation exposure.

To prevent direct exposure to the laser beam, do not try to open the
enclosure.

USE OF CONTROLS OR ADJUSTMENTS OR PERFORMANCE OF
PROCEDURES OTHER THAN THOSE SPECIFIED IN THE MANUAL
MAY RESULT IN HAZARDOUS RADIATION EXPOSURE.

The optical drive that is used in this computer is equipped with a laser
device. A classification label with the following sentence is affixed to the
surface of the drive.

The drive with the label above is certified by the manufacturer that the drive
complies with the requirement for laser product on the date of
manufacturing pursuant to article 21 of Code of Federal Regulations by the
United States of America, Department of Health & Human Services, Food
and Drug Administration.

In other countries, the drive is certified to comply with the requirement
pursuant to IEC 825 and EN60825 on class 1 laser product.

This computer is equipped with one of the optical drive in the following list
according to the model:

Manufacturer Type

Panasonic DVD Super Multi (±R Double Layer)

UJ-841BJTJ-J

Panasonic DVD-ROM&CD-R/RW

UJDA770TB-A

TEAC DVD ROM

DV-28E-RT4

TEAC CD ROM

CD 224E-NT4

User’s Manual v

vi User’s Manual

Table of Contents

Preface

General Precautions

Chapter 1 Introduction

Equipment checklist. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1

Features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3

Special features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-11

Utilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-13

Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-16

Chapter 2 The Grand Tour

Front with the display closed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1

Left side. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

Right side . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4

Back side. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4

Underside . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7

Front with the display open. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8

System indicators. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10

Keyboard indicators. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11

USB floppy disk drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12

Optical disk drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13

AC adaptor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16

Chapter 3 Getting Started

Connecting the AC adaptor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2

Opening the display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4

Turning on the power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5

Starting up for the first time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5

Turning off the power. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6

Restarting the computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10

Restoring the preinstalled software from

the Product Recovery Media. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10

User’s Manual vii

Chapter 4 Operating Basics

Using the Touch Pad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-1

Using the USB floppy disk drive. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-2

Using optical disk drives. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-3

Writing CDs on DVD-ROM&CD-R/RW drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-6

Writing CD/DVDs on DVD Super Multi drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-8

Media care. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-17

Sound system. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-18

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

Wireless communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-22

LAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-26

Cleaning the computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-27

Moving the computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-28

Using the Hard Disk Drive (HDD) Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-28

Heat dispersal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-31

Chapter 5 The Keyboard

Typewriter keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-1

Function keys: F1 … F12. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-2

Soft keys: Fn key combinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-2

Hot keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-3

Windows special keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-7

Keypad overlay. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-7

Generating ASCII characters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-9

Chapter 6 Power and Power-Up Modes

Power conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-1

Power indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-2

Battery types. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-3

Care and use of the battery pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-5

Replacing the battery pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-10

TOSHIBA Password Utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-12

Power-up modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-15

Panel power on/off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-15

System Auto Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-15

Chapter 7 HW Setup

Accessing HW Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-1

HW Setup window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-1

Starting and Ending the BIOS Setup Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-9

viii User’s Manual

Chapter 8 Optional Devices

PC card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-2

SD card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3

Memory expansion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-6

Battery pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-10

AC adaptor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-10

Battery charger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-10

USB floppy disk drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-10

External monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-10

TV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-11

i.LINK (IEEE1394) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-13

Advanced Port Replicator III Plus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-15

Serial port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-16

Security lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-17

Chapter 9 Troubleshooting

Problem solving process. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-1

Hardware and system checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3

TOSHIBA support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-22

Chapter 10 Legal Footnotes

Appendix A Specifications

Appendix B Display Controller and Modes

Display controller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-1

Video modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-1

Appendix C Wireless LAN

Card Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-1

Radio Characteristics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-1

Supported Frequency Sub-bands. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-2

Appendix D Bluetooth wireless technology Interoperability

Bluetooth wireless technology and your Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-3

Regulatory statements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-3

Using Bluetooth™ Card from TOSHIBA equipment in Japan . . . . . D-5

Appendix E AC Power Cord and Connectors

Certification agencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E-1

Appendix F TOSHIBA Anti-theft Protection Timer

Appendix G If your computer is stolen

Glossary

Index

User’s Manual ix

x User’s Manual

Preface

Congratulations on your purchase of the TECRA A8 / Satellite Pro A120
computer. This powerful notebook computer provides excellent expansion
capability, including multimedia devices, and it is designed to provide years
of reliable, high-performance computing.

This manual tells how to set up and begin using your TECRA A8 / Satellite
Pro A120 computer. It also provides detailed information on configuring
your computer, basic operations and care, using optional devices and
troubleshooting.

If you are a new user of computers or if you’re new to portable computing,
first read over the Introduction and The Grand Tour chapters to familiarize
yourself with the computer’s features, components and accessory devices.
Then read Getting Started for step-by-step instructions on setting up your
computer.

If you are an experienced computer user, please continue reading the
preface to learn how this manual is organized, then become acquainted
with this manual by browsing through its pages. Be sure to look over the

Special features section of the Introduction, to learn about features that are

uncommon or unique to the computers and carefully read HW Setup.
If you are going to install PC cards or connect external devices such as a

monitor, be sure to read Chapter 8, Optional Devices.

Manual contents

This manual is made up of the following.
Chapter 1, Introduction, is an overview of the computer’s features,

capabilities, and options.
Chapter 2, The Grand Tour, identifies the components of the computer and

briefly explains how they function.
Chapter 3, Getting Started, provides a quick overview of how to begin

operating your computer and gives tips on safety and designing your work
area.

Chapter 4, Operating Basics, describes the basic operations of your
computer and precautions when using it, as well as the handling of
CD/DVD.

Chapter 5, The Keyboard, describes special keyboard functions including
the keypad overlay and hot keys.

User’s Manual xi

Preface

Chapter 6, Power and Power-Up Modes, gives details on the computer’s
power resources and battery save modes and how to set a password.

Chapter 7, HW Setup, explains how to configure the computer using the
HW Setup program and TPM.

Chapter 8, Optional Devices, describes the optional hardware available.
Chapter 9, Troubleshooting, provides helpful information on how to perform

some diagnostic tests, and suggests courses of action if the computer
doesn’t seem to be working properly.

Chapter 10, Legal Footnotes, provides Legal Footnote information related
to your computer.

The Appendixes provide technical information about your computer.
The Glossary defines general computer terminology and includes a list of

acronyms used in the text.
The Index quickly directs you to the information contained in this manual.

Conventions

This manual uses the following formats to describe, identify, and highlight
terms and operating procedures.

Abbreviations

On first appearance, and whenever necessary for clarity, abbreviations are
enclosed in parentheses following their definition. For example: Read Only
Memory (ROM). Acronyms are also defined in the Glossary.

Icons

Icons identify ports, dials, and other parts of your computer. The indicator
panel also uses icons to identify the components it is providing information
on.

Keys

The keyboard keys are used in the text to describe many computer
operations. A distinctive typeface identifies the key top symbols as they
appear on the keyboard. For example, Enter identifies the Enter key.

Key operation

Some operations require you to simultaneously use two or more keys. We
identify such operations by the key top symbols separated by a plus sign
(+). For example, Ctrl + C means you must hold down Ctrl and at the same
time press C. If three keys are used, hold down the first two and at the
same time press the third.

ABC

xii User’s Manual

When procedures require an action such as
clicking an icon or entering text, the icon’s name
or the text you are to type in is represented in the
type face you see to the left.

Display

Preface

S ABC

Names of windows or icons or text generated by
the computer that appear on its display screen
are presented in the type face you see to the left.

Messages

Messages are used in this manual to bring important information to your
attention. Each type of message is identified as shown below.

Pay attention! A caution informs you that improper use of equipment or
failure to follow instructions may cause data loss or damage your
equipment.

Please read. A note is a hint or advice that helps you make best use of
your equipment.

Indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which could result in death or
serious injury, if you do not follow instructions.

User’s Manual xiii

Preface

xiv User’s Manual

General Precautions

TOSHIBA computers are designed to optimize safety, minimize strain and
withstand the rigors of portability. However, certain precautions should be
observed to further reduce the risk of personal injury or damage to the
computer.

Be certain to read the general precautions below and to note the cautions
included in the text of the manual.

Creating a computer-friendly environment

Place the computer on a flat surface that is large enough for the computer
and any other items you are using, such as a printer. Leave enough space
around the computer and other equipment to provide adequate ventilation.
Otherwise, they may overheat.To keep your computer in prime operating
condition, protect your work area from:

■ Dust, moisture, and direct sunlight.

■ Equipment that generates a strong electromagnetic field, such as

stereo speakers (other than speakers that are connected to the
computer) or speaker phones.

■ Rapid changes in temperature or humidity and sources of temperature

change such as air conditioner vents or heaters.

■ Extreme heat, cold, or humidity.

■ Liquids and corrosive chemicals.

Stress injury

Carefully read the Instruction Manual for Safety & Comfort. It contains
information on prevention of stress injuries to your hands and wrists that
can be caused by extensive keyboard use. Chapter 3, Getting Started, also
includes information on work space design, posture and lighting that can
help reduce physical stress.

User’s Manual xv

General Precautions

Heat injury

■ Avoid prolonged physical contact with the computer. If the computer is

used for long periods, its surface can become very warm. While the
temperature will not feel hot to the touch, if you maintain physical
contact with the computer for a long time (if you rest the computer on
your lap, or if you keep your hands on the palm rest, for example) your
skin might suffer low-heat injury.

■ If the computer has been used for a long time, avoid direct contact with

the metal plate supporting the I/O ports. It can become hot.

■ The surface of the AC adaptor can become hot when in use. This

condition does not indicate a malfunction. If you need to transport the
AC adaptor, disconnect it and let it cool before moving it.

■ Do not lay the AC adaptor on a material that is sensitive to heat. The

material could be damaged.

Pressure or impact damage

Do not apply heavy pressure to the computer or subject it to strong impact.
Excessive pressure or impact can cause damage to computer components
or otherwise cause malfunctions.

PC card overheating

Some PC cards can become hot with prolonged use. Overheating of a PC
card can result in errors or instability in the PC card operation. Also be
careful when you remove a PC card that has been used for a long time.

Mobile phone

Use of mobile phones can interfere with the audio system. Computer
operation is not impaired but it is recommended that a distance of 30 cm be
maintained between the computer and a mobile phone in use.

Instruction Manual for Safety & Comfort

All important information on the safe and proper use of this computer is
described in the enclosed Instruction Manual for Safety & Comfort. Be sure
to read it before using the computer.

xvi User’s Manual

Introduction

This chapter provides an equipment checklist, and it identifies the
computer’s features, options and accessories.

Some of the features described in this manual may not function properly if
you use an operating system that was not preinstalled by TOSHIBA.

Equipment checklist

Carefully unpack your computer. Save the box and packing materials for
future use.

An asterisk * indicates a optional part that is dependant on the model
purchased

Hardware

Check to make sure you have all the following items:

■ TECRA A8 / Satellite Pro A120 Portable Personal Computer

■ AC adaptor and power cord (2-pin plug or 3-pin plug)

■ USB floppy disk drive (Option or provided with some models)

■ Battery pack *

Chapter 1

User’s Manual 1-1

Introduction

Software

Microsoft® Windows XP

■ The following software is preinstalled:

An asterisk * indicates some software that is not preinstalled dependant on
the model purchased.

■ Microsoft® Windows XP

■ Modem Driver

■ Network Driver

■ Wireless LAN driver (Can be used only for Wireless LAN models)

■ Bluetooth Driver (Can be used only for Bluetooth models)

■ Display Drivers for Windows

■ Sound Driver for Windows

■ Pointing Device Driver

■ DVD Video Player

■ TOSHIBA Utilities

■ TOSHIBA Power Saver

■ TOSHIBA User’s Manual

■ TOSHIBA Assist

■ TOSHIBA ConfigFree

■ TOSHIBA Touch Pad On/Off Utility

■ TOSHIBA PC Diagnostic Tool

■ TOSHIBA Zooming Utility

■ TOSHIBA Controls

■ TOSHIBA Acoustic Silencer

■ TOSHIBA Hotkey Utility

■ TOSHIBA SD Memory Card Format Utility

■ TOSHIBA SD Memory Boot Utility

■ TOSHIBA HDD Protection

■ TOSHIBA Display Device Change Utility

■ TOSHIBA Password Utility

■ TOSHIBA Security Assist

■ Sun Java 2 Runtime Environment

■ Atheros Client Utility

■ Intel PROSET Utility

■ TOSHIBA Mobile Extension3 *

■ TOSHIBA Management Console *

■ TOSHIBA Fingerprint Software *

■ TPM Software *

1-2 User’s Manual

■ RecordNow!Basic for TOSHIBA *

■ DLA for TOSHIBA *

■ TOSHIBA DVD-RAM driver *

■ WinDVD Creator 2 Platinium *

Documentation

■ TECRA A8 / Satellite Pro A120 Portable Personal Computer User’s

Manual

■ TECRA A8 / Satellite Pro A120 Quickstart

■ Instruction Manual for Safety & Comfort

■ Warranty Information

Product Recover y Media and Additional Software

■ Product Recovery

■ Additional Software *

If any of the items are missing or damaged, contact your dealer
immediately.

Features

The computer uses TOSHIBA’s advanced Large Scale Integration (LSI),
Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) technology
extensively to provide compact size, minimum weight, low power usage,
and high reliability. This computer incorporates the following features and
benefits:

Introduction

Processor

Built-in The computer is equipped with one of the

following Intel

■ Intel® Core™ Duo Processor, which

incorporates a 2MB level 2 cache memory.
It also supports Enhanced Intel
Technology.

■ Intel

incorporates a 2MB level 2 cache memory.
It also supports Enhanced Intel® SpeedStep®
Technology.

■ Intel

incorporates a 1MB level 2 cache memory.

User’s Manual 1-3

®

processors.

®

SpeedStep®

®

Core™ Solo Processor, which

®

Celeron® M Processor, which

Introduction

Some models in this series carry Intel® Centrino® Duo Mobile Technology,
which is based on three separate technologies of Intel
processor, Intel

®

PRO/Wireless Network Connection, and Mobile Intel®

®

Core™ Duo

945 Express Chipset Family.

Some models of the computers carry Intel® Centrino® Mobile Technology,
which is based on three separate technologies of Intel
processor, Intel

®

PRO/Wireless Network Connection, and Mobile Intel®

®

Core™ Solo

945 Express Chipset Family.

Legal Footnote (CPU)*1

For more information on the Legal Footnote regarding CPU, please refer to
the Legal Footnotes section in Chapter 10. Click the *1.

Memory

Slots 256, 512, 1,024 or 2,048 MB memory modules

can be installed in the two memory slots for a
maximum of 4,096 MB. (Intel
Processor model)

256, 512, or 1,024 MB memory modules can be
installed in the two memory slots for a maximum
of 2,048 MB. (Intel® Celeron® M Processor model)

Video RAM Part of system memory is used for Video RAM.

®

Celeron® M Processor model:

Intel
up to 128MB

®

Intel

Core™ Duo/Solo Processor model:
up to 128MB (Main memory size: 256MB)
up to 256MB (Main memory size: 512MB,

768MB, 1,024MB or more).

®

Core™ Duo/Solo

Legal Footnote (General Main Memory)*2

For more information on the Legal Footnote regarding General Main
Memory, please refer to the Legal Footnotes section in Chapter 10. Click
the *2.

Power

Battery pack The computer is powered by one rechargeable

lithium-ion battery pack.

1-4 User’s Manual

Introduction

Legal Footnote (Battery Life)*3

For more information on the Legal Footnote regarding Battery Life, please
refer to the Legal Footnotes section in Chapter 10. Click the *3.

RTC battery The internal RTC battery backs up the Real Time

Clock (RTC) and calendar.

AC adaptor The AC adaptor provides power to the system

and recharges the batteries when they are low. It
comes with a detachable power cord which will
either have a 2-pin or 3-pin plug enclosure.

Because it is universal, it can receive a range of
AC voltage from 100 to 240 volts; however, the
output current varies among different models.
Using the wrong model can damage your
computer. Refer to the AC adaptor section in
Chapter 2, The Grand Tour.

Disks

Hard Disk Drive
(HDD) Capacity

Available in five sizes.

■ 40.0 billion bytes (37.26 GB)

■ 60.0 billion bytes (55.89 GB)

■ 80.0 billion bytes (74.53 GB)

■ 100.0 billion bytes (93.16 GB)

■ 120.0 billion bytes (111.79 GB)

Part of the space in the hard disk drive is
reserved as administration space.

Legal Footnote (Hard Disk Drive (HDD) Capacity)*4

For more information on the Legal Footnote regarding Hard Disk Drive
(HDD) Capacity, please refer to the Legal Footnotes section in Chapter 10.
Click the *4.

USB floppy disk
drive

Accommodates either 3 1/2" 1.44-megabyte or
720-kilobyte floppy disk. It connects to a USB
port. Optional or provide with some models.

Optical disk drive

Computers in this series can be configured with an optical disk drive
installed. The available optical disk drives are described below.

User’s Manual 1-5

Introduction

CD-ROM drive Some models are equipped with a full-size,

CD-ROM drive module that lets you run CD
without using an adaptor. It reads CD-ROMs at
maximum 24 speed. This drive supports the
following formats:

■ CD-DA

■ CD-Text

■ Photo CD™ (single/multi-session)

■ CD-ROM Mode 1, Mode 2

■ CD-ROM XA Mode 2 (Form1, Form2)

■ Enhanced CD (CD-EXTRA)

■ Addressing Method 2

DVD-ROM drive Some models are equipped with a full-size,

DVD-ROM drive module that lets you run either
12 cm (4.72") or 8 cm (3.15") CDs or 12cm
(4.72") DVDs without using an adaptor. It runs
DVD-ROMs at maximum 8 speed and CD-ROMs
at maximum 24 speed. The drive supports the
following formats:

■ DVD-ROM

■ DVD-Video

■ CD-DA

■ CD-Text

■ Photo CD™ (single/multi-session)

■ CD-ROM Mode 1, Mode 2

■ CD-ROM XA Mode 2 (Form1, Form2)

■ Enhanced CD (CD-EXTRA)

■ Addressing Method 2

DVD-ROM&CD-R/RW
drive

Some models are equipped with a full-size,
DVD-ROM&CD-R/RW drive module that lets you
run CD/DVDs without using an adaptor. It reads
DVD-ROMs at maximum 8 speed and CD-ROMs
at maximum 24 speed. It writes CD-R at up to
24 speed and CD-RW at up to 24 speed. This
drive supports the following formats in addition to
DVD-ROM drive.

■ CD-R

■ CD-RW

1-6 User’s Manual

Introduction

DVD Super Multi
drive

2.6GB and 5.2GB DVD-RAM discs cannot be read from or written to.

Some models are equipped with a full-size DVD
Super Multi drive module that lets you record
data to rewritable CD/DVDs as well as run either
12cm (4.72") or 8cm (3.15") CD/DVDs without
using an adaptor. It reads DVD-ROMs at
maximum 8 speed and CD-ROMs at maximum
24 speed. It writes CD-R at maximum 24 speed,
CD-RW at maximum 10 speed, DVD-R and
DVD+R at maximum 8 speed, DVD-RW and
DVD+RW at maximum 4 speed, DVD-R DL at
maximum 2 speed, DVD+R DL at maximum

2.4 speed, DVD-RAM at maximum 5 speed.This
drive supports the following formats in addition to
DVD-ROM&CDR/ RW drive.

■ DVD-R

■ DVD-RW

■ DVD-RAM

■ DVD-R DL

■ DVD+R

■ DVD+RW

■ DVD+R DL

Display

The computer’ LCD display panel supports high-resolution video graphics.
The LCD screen can be set at a wide range of viewing angles for maximum
comfort and readability.

Built-in 15.4" TFT LCD screen, 16 million colors, with

one of the following resolution:

■ WXGA, 1280 horizontal × 800 vertical pixels

Legal Footnote (LCD)*5

For more information on the Legal Footnote regarding LCD, please refer to
the Legal Footnotes section in Chapter 10. Click the *5.

Graphics controller The graphics controller maximizes display

performance. Refer to Appendix B, Display

Controller and Modes, for more information.

User’s Manual 1-7

Introduction

Legal Footnote (Graphics Processor Unit (“GPU”))*6

For more information on the Legal Footnote regarding Graphics Processor
Unit (“GPU”), please refer to the Legal Footnotes section in Chapter 10.
Click the *6.

Keyboard

Built-in

85 keys or 87 keys, compatible with IBM®
enhanced keyboard, embedded numeric overlay,

dedicated cursor control, and keys.
Refer to Chapter 5, The Keyboard, for details.

TOSHIBA Pointing Device

Built-in Touch Pad A Touch Pad and control buttons in the palm rest

enable control of the on-screen pointer and
scrolling of windows.

Ports

Serial RS-232C compatible port (16550UART

compatible).
Depending on the model, a serial port is not

present.

External monitor Analog VGA port supports VESA DDC2B

compatible functions.

Universal Serial Bus
(USB 2.0)

Docking This port enables connection of an optional

The computer has three Universal Serial Bus
ports that comply with the USB 2.0 standard.

Advanced Port Replicator III Plus described in
the Options section.

Depending on the model, a docking port is not
present.

Slots

PC card The PC card slot accommodates a Type II card.

SD card

1-8 User’s Manual

This slot lets you easily transfer data from
devices, such as digital cameras and Personal
Digital Assistants that use SD card flash memory.

Refer to Chapter 8, Optional Devices.

Multimedia

Introduction

Sound system The Windows sound system compatible sound

system provides output to internal speakers and
a microphone as well as supporting jacks for an
external microphone and headphones.

Video-out jack
(S-Video)

The video out jack lets you transfer video data to
external devices. Data output depends on the
type of device connected to the S-Video cable.

Depending on the model, a Video out jack is not
present.

Headphone jack A 3.5 mm mini headphone jack enables

connection of stereo headphones.

Microphone jack A 3.5 mm mini microphone jack enables

connection of a three-conductor mini jack for
monaural microphone input.

Communications

Modem An internal modem provides capability for data

and fax communication supporting the V.90
(V.92) standards. The speed of data transfer and
fax depends on analog telephone line conditions.
It has a modem jack for connecting to a
telephone line. It is preinstalled as a standard
device in some markets. Both the V.90 and V.92
standards are supported only in the USA,
Canada, UK, France, Germany and Australia.
Only V.90 is available in other regions.

LAN This computer has built-in support for Ethernet

LAN (10 megabits per second, 10BASE-T), Fast
Ethernet LAN (100 megabits per second,
100BASE-TX) or Gigabit Ethernet LAN
(1000 megabits per second, 1000BASE-T (only

®

for Intel

Bluetooth Some computers in this series are equipped with

Bluetooth functions. Bluetooth wireless
technology eliminates the need for cables
between electronic devices such as computers
and printers. Bluetooth provides fast, reliable,
and secure wireless communication in a small
space.

Core™ Duo/Solo Processor model)).

User’s Manual 1-9

Introduction

Wireless LAN The computers in this series are equipped with a

Wireless LAN card that is compatible with other
LAN systems based on Direct Sequence Spread
Spectrum/Orthogonal Frequency Division
Multiplexing radio technology that complies with
the IEEE 802.11 Standard (Revision A, B or G).

■ Theoretical maximum speed: 54Mbps

(IEEE802.11a, 802.11g)

■ Theoretical maximum speed: 11Mbps

(IEEE802.11b)

■ Frequency Channel Selection

(5 GHz: Revision A / 2.4 GHz: Revision B/G)

■ Roaming over multiple channels

■ Card Power Management

■ Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) data

encryption, based on 128 bit encryption
algorithm. (Intel module type).

■ Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) data

encryption, based on 152 bit encryption
algorithm. (Atheros module type)

■ Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA).

■ Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) data

encryption.

■ Wake-up on Wireless LAN (Intel module type)

■ The values shown above are the theoretical maximums for Wireless

LAN standards. The actual values may differ.

■ The transmission speed over the Wireless LAN and the distance over

which Wireless LAN can reach may vary depending on surrounding
electromagnetic environment, obstacles, access point design and
configuration, and client design and software/hardware configurations.
The transmission rate described is the theoretical maximum speed as
specified under the appropriate standard - the actual transmission
speed will be lower than the theoretical maximum speed.

Legal Footnote (Wireless LAN)*7

For more information on the Legal Footnote regarding Wireless LAN,
please refer to the Legal Footnotes section in Chapter 10. Click the *7.

Wireless
communication
switch

1-10 User’s Manual

This switch turns the Wireless LAN and
Bluetooth functions on and off.

All models are provided with Wireless
Communication switch. Some models are equipped
with both Wireless LAN and Bluetooth functions.

Security

Introduction

Security lock slot Allows the connection of a security lock to anchor

Special features

The following features are either unique to TOSHIBA computers or are
advanced features, which make the computer more convenient to use.

TOSHIBA Assist
button

TOSHIBA
Presentation button

Hot keys Hot keys are specific key combinations that let

Display automatic
power off

HDD automatic
power off

System automatic
Standby/Hibernation

Keypad overlay A ten-key pad is integrated into the keyboard.

the computer to a desk or other large object.

Press this button to automatically launch a
predefined application or perform a predefined
function. The default is TOSHIBA Assist.

This button is available on Tecra A8 models only.

Press this button to change internal display,
external display, simultaneous display,
or multi-monitor display.

This button is available on Tecra A8 models only.

you quickly change the system configuration
directly from the keyboard without running a
system program.

This feature automatically cuts off power to the
computer’s LCD display panel when there is no
keyboard input for a specified time. Power is
restored when any key is pressed. You can
specify the time in the Monitor power off item of
the Basic Setup tab in TOSHIBA Power Saver.

This feature automatically cuts off power to the
hard disk drive when it is not accessed for a
specified time. Power is restored when the hard
disk is accessed. You can specify the time in the
HDD power off item of the Basic Setup tab in
TOSHIBA Power Saver.

This feature automatically shuts down the system
into Standby Mode or Hibernation Mode when
there is no input or hardware access for a time
specified. You can specify the time and select
either the System Standby or System Hibernation
item of the Basic Setup tab in TOSHIBA Power
Saver.

Refer to the Keypad overlay section in Chapter 5,

The Keyboard, for instructions on using the

keypad overlay.

User’s Manual 1-11

Introduction

Power on password Two levels of password security, supervisor and

user, are available to prevent unauthorized
access to your computer.

Instant security A hot key function blanks the LCD screen and

disables the computer providing data security.

Intelligent power
supply

A microprocessor in the computer’s intelligent
power supply detects the battery’s charge and
calculates the remaining battery capacity. It also
protects electronic components from abnormal
conditions, such as voltage overload from an AC
adaptor. You can monitor remaining battery
capacity by using the Battery remaining item in
TOSHIBA Power Saver.

Battery save mode This feature lets you save battery power. You can

specify the Power Save Mode in the Profile item
in TOSHIBA Power Saver.

Panel power on/off This feature turns power to the computer off

when the computer’s LCD display panel is closed
and turns it back on when the computer’s LCD
display panel is opened. You can specify the
setting in the When I close the lid item of the
Setup Actions tab in TOSHIBA Power Saver.

Low battery
automatic
hibernation

When battery power is exhausted to the point that
computer operation cannot be continued, the
system automatically enters Hibernation and
shuts down. You can specify the setting in the
Setup Actions tab in TOSHIBA Power Saver.

Heat dispersal To protect from overheating, the CPU has an

internal temperature sensor. If the computer’s
internal temperature rises to a certain level, the
cooling fan is turned on or the processing speed
is lowered. Use the Cooling Method item of the
Basic Setup tab in TOSHIBA Power Saver.

HDD Protection Using the acceleration sensor built in the

computer, the HDD Protection function detects
vibration, shocks, and those signs in the
computer, and automatically moves the HDD
(Hard Disk Drive) head to the safe position to
reduce the risk of damage that could be caused
to the disk by head-to-disk contact. Refer to the

Using the Hard Disk Drive (HDD) Protection

section in Chapter 4, Operating Basics, for
details.

1-12 User’s Manual

Introduction

The HDD Protection function does not guarantee that the hard disk drive
will not be damaged.

Utilities

Hibernation This feature lets you turn off the power without

Standby If you have to interrupt your work, you can turn off

This section describes preinstalled utilities and tells how to start them. For
details on operations, refer to each utility’s online manual, help files or
readme.txt files.

TOSHIBA Power
Saver

HW Setup This program lets you customize your hardware

TOSHIBA Controls Depending on the model, TOSHIBA Controls is

exiting from your software. The contents of main
memory are saved to the hard disk so that when
you next turn the power on again, you can
continue working right where you left off. Refer to
the Turning off the power section in Chapter 3,

Getting Started, for details.

the power without exiting from your software.
Data is maintained in the computer’s main
memory. When you turn on the power again, you
can continue working right where you left off.

To access the power management program, click

start, click Control Panel, click Performance
and Maintenance and click the TOSHIBA
Power Saver icon.

settings according to the way you work with your
computer and the peripherals you use. To access
this utility, click start, click Control Panel, click

Printers and Other Hardware and click the
TOSHIBA HWSetup icon.

not present.
This utility lets you assign applications or

functions to the TOSHIBA Presentation button
(default setting is the simultaneous display on
LCD and CRT with resolution of 1,024 × 768) and
to the TOSHIBA Assist button (default setting is
the TOSHIBA Assist).

To access this utility, click start, point to Control
Panel, choose Printers and Other Hardware
and click the Toshiba Controls icon.

User’s Manual 1-13

Introduction

DVD Video Player The DVD Video Player is used to play

DVD-Videos. It has an on-screen interface and
functions. Click start, point to All Programs,
point to InterVideo WinDVD, then click

InterVideo WinDVD.

Bluetooth Stack for
Windows by Toshiba

This software enables communication between
remote Bluetooth devices.

Bluetooth cannot be used in models that do not have a Bluetooth module
installed.

TOSHIBA SD
Memory Boot Utility

The TOSHIBA SD Memory Boot utility allows you
to create a bootable SD memory card to start the
system. You can access TOSHIBA SD Memory
Boot Utility from the menu bar as follows. Click
start, point to All Programs, point to TOSHIBA,
point to Utilities and click SD Memory Boot

Utility.

TOSHIBA Zooming
Utility

This utility allows you to enlarge or reduce the
icon size on the desktop or the application
window.

RecordNow! Basic
for TOSHIBA

You can create CD/DVDs in several formats
including audio CDs that can be played on a
standard stereo CD player and data CD/DVDs to
store the files and folders on your hard disk drive.
This software can be used on a model with
DVD-ROM&CD-R/RW drive or DVD Super Multi
drive.

TOSHIBA Assist Depending on the model, TOSHIBA Assist is not

present. TOSHIBA Assist is a graphical user
interface that provides easy access to help and
services. It is the default function launched by the
TOSHIBA Assist button.

TOSHIBA PC
Diagnostic Tool

TOSHIBA PC Diagnostic Tool displays the basic
information on the computer’s configuration and
allows to test the functionality of some of the
built-in devices. To start TOSHIBA PC Diagnostic
Tool, click start, point to All Programs, point to

TOSHIBA, point to Utilities and click PC
Diagnostic Tool.

1-14 User’s Manual