Toshiba A3X User Manual
User’s Manual
TECRA A3X
Choose freedom.
computers.toshiba-europe.com
Copyright
© 2005 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 A3X Portable Personal Computer User’s Manual
First edition September 2005
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 A3X 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.
TECRA A3X
Trademarks
Intel, Intel Speed Step, Pentium and Celeron 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.
Other trademarks and registered trademarks not listed above may be used
in this manual.
User’s Manual ii
EU Declaration of Conformity
TOSHIBA declares, that the product: PTA3X* 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 +49-(0)-2131-158-01.
For a copy of the related CE Declaration of Conformity please refer to the
following website: http://epps.toshiba-teg.com.
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.
TECRA A3X
This symbol may not stick depending on the country and region where you
purchased.
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 and
Greece ATAAB AN005,AN006 and GR01,02,03,04
Portugal ATAAB AN001,005,006,007,011 and P03,04,08,10
Spain ATAAB AN005,007,012, and ES01
Switzerland ATAAB AN002
All other countries/
regions
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.
DE03,04,05,08,09,12,14,17
ATAAB AN003,004
TECRA A3X
User’s Manual iv
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.
TECRA A3X
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
pursant to IEC 825 and EN60825 on class 1 laser product.
User’s Manual v
TECRA A3X
This computer is equipped with one of the optical drive in the following list
according to the model:
Manufacturer Type
TEAC CD-ROM CD-224E
TEAC DVD-ROM DV-28E
TEAC DVD Super Multi with ±R Double Layer
Recording DV-W28EA
TSST (TOSHIBA
DVD-ROM SD-C2732
SAMSUNG STORAGE
TECHNOLOGY)
TSST (TOSHIBA
DVD-ROM&CD-R/RW TS-L462C
SAMSUNG STORAGE
TECHNOLOGY)
Panasonic DVD-ROM&CD-R/RW UJDA770
Panasonic DVD Super Multi with ±R Double Layer
Recording UJ-841
User’s Manual vi
Table of Contents
Copyright. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ii
Disclaimer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ii
Trademarks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ii
EU Declaration of Conformity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iii
Modem warning notice. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iv
Optical disc drive safety instructions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . v
Preface
Manual contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xii
Conventions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xiii
General Precautions
Chapter 1 Introduction
Equipment checklist. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
Features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
Special features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-10
Utilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-12
Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-14
Chapter 2 The Grand Tour
Front with the display closed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1
Left side. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
Right side . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
Backside . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
Underside . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6
Front with the display open. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
System indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10
Keyboard indicators. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
USB floppy disk drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12
Fixed optical media drives. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13
AC adaptor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15
User’s Manual vii
Table of Contents
Chapter 3
Getting Started
Setting up your work space. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
Installing the battery pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
Connecting the AC adaptor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
Opening the display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
Turning on the power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8
Windows XP setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9
Turning off the power. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9
Restarting the computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-12
Restoring the preinstalled software from Product Recovery
Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-13
Chapter 4 Operating Basics
Using the Touch Pad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
Using the USB floppy disk drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2
Using optical media drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3
Writing CDs on DVD-ROM&CD-R/RW drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7
Writing CD/DVDs on DVD Super Multi drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8
RecordNow! Basic for TOSHIBA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12
DLA for TOSHIBA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13
WinDVD Creator 2 Platinum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-14
Media care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15
Sound System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-16
Modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-17
Wireless LAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-20
LAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-21
Cleaning the computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-23
Moving the computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-23
Heat dispersal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-24
Chapter 5 The Keyboard
Typewriter keys. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1
F1 … F12 function keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
Soft keys: Fn key combinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
Hot keys. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
Windows special keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6
Keypad overlay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7
Generating ASCII characters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8
User’s Manual viii
Table of Contents
Chapter 6
Power
Power conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1
Power indicators. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
Battery types. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
Care and use of the battery pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6
Replacing the battery pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-13
TOSHIBA Password Utility. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-16
Starting the computer by password . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-17
Power-up modes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-18
Panel power on/off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-18
System Auto Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-18
Chapter 7 HW Setup
Accessing HW Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1
HW Setup window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1
Starting and Ending the BIOS Setup Program. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-8
Chapter 8 Optional Devices
PC card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-2
Memory expansion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4
Additional battery pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7
Additional AC adaptor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7
Battery charger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7
USB Floppy disk drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7
External monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-8
Parallel printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-8
TV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9
i.LINK (IEEE1394) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-10
Advanced Port Replicator IIl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-11
Bluetooth USB Adaptor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-13
Mobile HDD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-13
Security lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-13
Chapter 9 Troubleshooting
Problem solving process. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-1
Hardware and system checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
TOSHIBA support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-21
User’s Manual ix
Table of Contents
Chapter 10
Disclaimers
CPU*1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-1
Battery Life*2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-2
HDD Drive Capacity*3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-2
LCD*4. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-2
Graphics Processor Unit (“GPU”)*5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3
Wireless LAN*6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3
Non-applicable Icons*7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3
Copy Protection*8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3
Images*9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3
Appendix A Specifications
Physical Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-1
Appendix B Display Controller and Modes
Display controller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-1
Video modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-2
Display Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-7
Appendix C Wireless LAN
Card Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-1
Radio Characteristics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-1
Supported Frequency Sub-bands. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-2
Appendix D AC Power Cord and Connectors
Certification agencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-1
Appendix E TOSHIBA Anti-theft Protection Timer
Appendix F If your computer is stolen
Glossary
Index
User’s Manual x
Preface
Congratulations on your purchase of the TECRA A3X 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 A3X
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.
User’s Manual xi
Manual contents
This manual is composed of the following ten chapters, six appendixes, a
glossary and an index.
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, includes instructions on using the following
devices: Touch Pad, USB floppy disk drive, optical media drives, Sound
System, modem, wireless communication, LAN. It also provides tips on
care of the computer, floppy disks and CD/DVDs.
Chapter 5, The Keyboard, describes special keyboard functions including
the keypad overlay and hot keys.
Chapter 6, Power, gives details on the computer’s power resources and
battery save modes.
Chapter 7, HW Setup, explains how to configure the computer using the
HW Setup program.
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, Disclaimers, provides disclaimer 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.
Preface
User’s Manual xii
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.
Preface
ABC
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
ABC
User’s Manual xiii
Names of windows or icons or text generated by
the computer that appears on its display screen is
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.
Preface
User’s Manual xiv
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.
Stress injury
Carefully read the Instruction Manual for Safety & Comfort. It contains
information on prevention of stress injuries to your hands and wrists than
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.
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.
User’s Manual xv
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.
RTC battery
The following message is displayed on the LCD:
RTC battery is low or CMOS checksum is inconsistent.
Press [F1] key to set Date/Time.
The battery for RTC is wearing. Set the date and time in BIOS setup with
the following steps:
1. Press F1 key. BIOS setup will boot up.
2. Set the date in System Date.
3. Set the time in System Time.
4. Press End key. Confirmation message will appear.
Press Y key. BIOS setup will terminate and the computer will be rebooted.
After configuring the time and date for the Real Time Clock battery, we
recommend that you turn the power status of your computer to "ON" so
that the Real Time Clock battery is charged.
User’s Manual xvi
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.
* indicates an optional part that is dependant on the model purchased
Hardware
Check to make sure you have all the following items:
■ TECRA A3X Portable Personal Computer
■ Universal AC adaptor and power cord
■ Modular cable for modem *
■ Battery pack
Battery pack: 6-cell 4700 mAh (installed in the computer)
High Capacity battery pack: 12-cell 8800 mAh (bundled with the
computer) *
Chapter 1
It is necessary to install the battery to use this computer. Refer to Installing
the battery pack section in Chapter 3, Getting Started.
User’s Manual 1-1
Software
Windows XP Professional
■ The following software is preinstalled on your hard disk:
■ Microsoft
■ Microsoft
■ Modem driver
■ Display Driver for Windows
■ TOSHIBA Utilities
■ Wireless LAN driver *
■ Sound Driver for Windows
■ DVD Video Player
■ Network Driver
■ Pointing device Driver
■ TOSHIBA Power Saver
■ TOSHIBA User’s Manual
■ TOSHIBA Assist
■ TOSHIBA ConfigFree
■ TOSHIBA Touch Pad On/Off Utility
■ TOSHIBA PC Diagnostic Tool
■ TOSHIBA Controls
■ TOSHIBA Zooming Utility
■ TOSHIBA Password Utility
■ Atheros Client Utility
■ TOSHIBA Hotkey Utility for Display Devices
■ TOSHIBA Display Device Change Utility
■ TOSHIBA Mobile Extension for Windows XP
■ InterVideo WinDVD Creator 2 Platinum
■ CD/DVD Acoustic Silencer
■ Record Now! Basic for TOSHIBA
■ DLA for TOSHIBA
■ Online Manual
■ Product Recovery media and additional Software
■ Product Recovery
■ Additional Software CD *
®
Windows XP Professional
®
Internet Explorer
Introduction
User’s Manual 1-2
Features
Introduction
Documentation
■ Your computer’s documentation:
■ TECRA A3X User's Manual
■ TECRA A3X Quickstart
■ Instruction Manual for Safety & Comfort
■ Warranty Information
If any of the items are missing or damaged, contact your dealer.
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:
CPU
Built-in The computer is equipped with an Intel®
processor.
■ Intel
■ Intel
®
Celeron® M processor, which
incorporates a 1 MB level 2 cache memory.
®
Pentium® M processor, which
incorporates a 2 MB level 2 cache memory. It
also supports Enhanced Intel® SpeedStep™
technology.
Some models of the computers carry Intel® Centrino. technology, which is
based on three separate technologies of Intel
Wireless Network Connection, and Intel
Chipset Family is a model by whom Intel
®
Pentium® M, Intel® PRO/
®
915 Chipset Family. Intel® 915
®
Pentium® M processor is
installed.
Disclaimer (CPU)*1
For more information on the Disclaimer regarding CPU, please refer to
the Disclaimers section in Chapter 10. Click the *1.
User’s Manual 1-3
Introduction
Memory
Slots The slot accepts a 256, 512 or 1,024 MB memory
modules can be installed in the two memory slots
for a maximum of 2,048 MB system memory.
Video RAM Maximum 128 MB of RAM is provided for video
display.
Power
Battery pack The computer is powered by one rechargeable
lithium-ion battery pack.
■ High Capacity battery pack (8800 mAh)
■ Battery pack (4700 mAh)
Disclaimer (Battery Life)*2
For more information on the Disclaimer regarding Battery Life, please
refer to the Disclaimers section in Chapter 10. Click the *2.
RTC battery The internal RTC battery backs up the Real Time
Clock and calendar.
AC adaptor The universal AC adaptor provides power to the
system and recharges the batteries when they
are low. It comes with a detachable power cord.
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.
User’s Manual 1-4
Introduction
Disks
Hard disk drive Available in four sizes.
■ 40.0 billion bytes (37.26 GB)
■ 60.0 billion bytes (55.88 GB)
■ 80.0 billion bytes (74.52 GB)
■ 100.0 billion bytes (93.16 GB)
Disclaimer (HDD Drive Capacity)*3
For more information on the Disclaimer regarding HDD Drive Capacity,
please refer to the Disclaimers section in Chapter 10. Click the *3.
■ About 2GB disk space is reserved for recovery partition.
■ When re-setting up your hard disk, do not change, delete or add
partitions in a manner other than specified in the manual. Otherwise,
space for software may be destroyed.
■ In addition, if you use a third-party partitioning program to reconfigure
partitions on your hard disk, it may become impossible to re-setup your
computer.
USB floppy disk
drive (Optional)
Computers in this series can be configured with a Fixed optical media
drive. The available optical media drives are described below.
CD-ROM drive Some models are equipped with a full-size,
User’s Manual 1-5
Accommodates either 3 1/2" 1.44-megabyte or
720-kilobyte floppy disks. It connects to a
USB port.
CD-ROM drive module that lets you run CD
without using an adaptor. It reads CD-ROMs at
maximum 24 peed. 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)
■ CD-G (Audio CD only)
■ Addressing Method 2
Introduction
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 12 cm
(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)
■ CD-G (Audio CD only)
■ 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
DVD Super Multi
drive Double
Layer
This computer is equipped with a full-size DVD
Super Multi drive module that lets you record
data to rewritable CD/DVDs as well as run either
12 cm (4.72”) or 8 cm (3.15”) CDs/12 cm (4.72”)
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, CD-RW at up to 10 speed, DVD-R and
DVD+R at maximum 8 speed, DVD-R DL at
maximum 2 speed, DVD+R DL at maximum
2.4 speed, DVD-RW and DVD+RW at maximum
4 speed, DVD-RAM at maximum 5 speed. This
drive supports the following formats in addition to
DVD-ROM&CD-R/RW drive.
■ DVD+R
■ DVD+RW
■ DVD-R
■ DVD-RW
■ DVD-RAM
User’s Manual 1-6
Introduction
Display
The computer’s LCD panel supports high-resolution video graphics. The
screen can be set at a wide range of viewing angles for maximum comfort
and readability.
Built-in 15.0" XGA/SXGA+ TFT screen, 16 M colors, with
one of the following resolutions:
■ XGA, 1024 horizontal × 768 vertical pixels
■ SXGA+, 1400 horizontal × 1050 vertical
pixels
Disclaimer (LCD)*4
For more information on the Disclaimer regarding LCD, please refer to
the Disclaimers section in Chapter 10. Click the *4.
Graphics controller
■ Graphics controller maximizes display
performance. Refer to Display Controller and
Modes section in Appendix B for more
information.
Disclaimer (Graphics Processor Unit ("GPU"))*5
For more information on the Disclaimer regarding Graphics Processor
Unit (“GPU”), please refer to the Disclaimers section in Chapter 10.
Click the *5.
Keyboard
Built-in 85 keys or 86 keys, compatible with IBM
enhanced keyboard, embedded numeric overlay,
dedicated cursor control, and keys. Refer
to Chapter 5, The Keyboard, for details.
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.
User’s Manual 1-7
Introduction
Ports
Parallel Parallel printer or other parallel device (ECP
compatible).
Serial RS-232C compatible port (16550 UART
compatible).
External monitor 15-pin, analog VGA port supports VESA DDC2B
Universal Serial Bus
(USB 2.0)
Docking interface This port enables connection of an optional
i.LINK (IEEE1394) i.LINK is provided with some models.
compatible functions.
The computer has Universal Serial Bus ports that
comply with the USB 2.0 standard, which
enables data transfer speeds 40 times faster
than the USB 1.1 standard. (The ports also
support USB 1.1.)
Advanced Port Replicator III described in the
Options section.
This port enables high-speed data transfer
directly from external devices such as digital
video cameras.
Slots
PC card The PC card slot accommodates a 5 mm Type II
card.
Multimedia
Sound system Windows sound system compatible sound
system provides microphone as well as jacks for
an external microphone and headphone.
Headphone jack This jack outputs analog audio signals.
Microphone jack A 3.5 mm mini microphone jack enables
connection of a three-conductor mini jack for
monaural microphone input.
TV-out jack
(S-Video)
User’s Manual 1-8
TV-out jack is provided with some models.
The TV-out jack lets you transfer video data to
external devices. Data output depends on the
type of device connected to the S-Video cable.
Introduction
Communications
Modem An internal modem provides capability for data
and fax communication. It supports V.90 (V.92).
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 of V.90 and V.92 are supported
only in USA, Canada and Australia. Only V.90 is
available in other regions.
LAN The computer has built-in support for Ethernet
LAN (10 megabits per second, 10BASE-T) and
Fast Ethernet LAN (100 megabits per second,
100BASE-TX).
Wireless LAN Some computers in this series are equipped with
a Wireless LAN mini-PCI 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
■ Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA).
■ Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) data
encryption, based on 152 bit encryption
algorithm. (Atheros module type)
Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) data
encryption, based on 128 bit encryption
algorithm. (Intel module type)
■ Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) data
encryption.
Disclaimer (Wireless LAN)*6
For more information on the Disclaimer regarding Wireless LAN/Intel,
please refer to the Disclaimers section in Chapter 10. Click the *6.
User’s Manual 1-9
Introduction
Security
Security lock slot Connects an optional security lock to anchor the
computer to a desk or other large object.
Software
Operating System Windows XP Professional operating system and
TOSHIBA Utilities and drivers preinstalled on the
hard disk. Refer to the Software section at the
front of this chapter.
TOSHIBA Utilities A number of utilities and drivers are preinstalled
Plug and Play When you connect an external device to the
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
Zoom out (-)/
Zoom in (+) button
Hot keys Key combinations let you quickly modify the
Display automatic
power off
to make your computer more convenient to use.
Refer to the Utilities section in this chapter.
computer or when you install a component, Plug
and Play capability enables the system to
recognize the connection and make the
necessary configurations automatically.
Press this button to launch an application
automatically. The default is TOSHIBA Assist.
Press this button to change the simultaneous
display on LCD and CRT with resolution of
1024 x 768 by default.
Press these button to reduce or enlarge the icon
size on the desktop or the application window by
default. Some models are equipped with these
buttons.
system configuration directly from the keyboard
without running a system configuration program.
This feature automatically cuts off power to the
internal display when there is no keyboard input
for a time specified. 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.
User’s Manual 1-10
Introduction
HDD automatic
power off
This feature automatically cuts off power to the
hard disk drive when it is not accessed for a time
specified. 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.
System automatic
Standby/Hibernation
This feature automatically shuts down the system
in 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 Standby or Hibernation in the System
standby and System hibernation item of the Basic
Setup tab in TOSHIBA Power Saver.
Keypad overlay A ten-key pad is integrated into the keyboard.
Refer to the The Keyboard section in Chapter 5,
The Keyboard, for instructions on using the
keypad overlay.
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 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. Use 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 display panel is closed and turns it back
on when the panel is opened. You can specify the
setting in the When I close the lid item of the
Setup Action 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 Action tab in TOSHIBA Power Saver.
User’s Manual 1-11
Introduction
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.
Utilities
■ Maximum
Performance
■ Performance Uses a combination of
■ Battery optimized Lowers the CPU
Hibernation This feature lets you turn off the power without
exiting from your software. The contents of main
memory are saved to the hard disk, when you
turn on the power 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.
Standby If you have to interrupt your work, you can turn off
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.
Turns on fan first, then if
necessary lowers CPU
processing speed.
fan and lowering the
CPU processing speed.
processing speed first,
then if necessary turns
on the fan.
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 Assist 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 Power
Saver
User’s Manual 1-12
To access this power savings management
program, click start, click Control Panel, click
Performance and Maintance and select the
TOSHIBA Power Saver icon.
Introduction
HW Setup This program lets you customize your hardware
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 select the
TOSHIBA HWSetup icon.
TOSHIBA Controls This utility have a section to let you do the
following:
Buttons: Assign applications or functions to the
TOSHIBA Assist button, the TOSHIBA
Presentation button, the Zoom out button and to
the Zoom in button.
To open TOSHIBA Controls properties, click
start, click Control Panel, click Printers and
Hardwares, and click TOSHIBA Controls.
DVD Video Player The DVD Video Player is used to play
DVD-Video. It has an on-screen interface and
functions. Click Start, point to All Programs, point
to InterVideo WinDVD, then click InterVideo
WinDVD.
TOSHIBA Zooming
Utility
RecordNow! Basic
for TOSHIBA
This utility allows you to enlarge or reduce the
icon size on the desktop or the application
window.
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, DVD-R/-RW drive
and DVD Super Multi drive.
DLA for TOSHIBA DLA (Drive Letter Access) is the packet writing
software which provides the function which writes
files and/or folders to DVD+RW, DVD-RW or
CD-RW disc via a drive letter like a floppy disk or
other removable disks.
TOSHIBA PC
Diagnostic Tool
TOSHIBA PC Diagnostic Tool displays the basic
information on PC, and the test of built-in devices
can also be performed.To start TOSHIBA PC
Diagnostic Tool, click start, point to All
Programs, point to TOSHIBA, point to Utilities
and click PC Diagnostic Tool.
User’s Manual 1-13
Introduction
TOSHIBA ConfigFree ConfigFree is a suite of utilities to allow easy
control of communication device and network
connections. ConfigFree also allows you to find
communication problems and create profiles for
easy switching between location and
communication networks. To start ConfigFree,
click start, point to All Programs, point to
TOSHIBA, point to Networking and click
ConfigFree.
TOSHIBA Touch Pad
On/Off Utility
TOSHIBA Password
Utility
CD/DVD Drive
Acoustic Silencer
Pressing Fn + F9 in a windows environment
enables or disables the Touch Pad function.
When you press these hot keys, the current
setting will change and be displayed as an icon.
This utility lets you set a password that restricts
access to the computer.
This utility has the function to set up the read
speed of CD.
It is ineffective in DVD.
You can set up one of the modes: [Normal Mode]
can read data early, and [Quiet Mode] can lessen
noise.
Options
You can add a number of options to make your computer even more
powerful and convenient to use. Refer to Chapter 8 Optional Devices, for
details.
The following options are available:
Memory expansion A 256, 512 or 1,024 MB memory module (DDR2
Battery pack An additional battery pack can be purchased
AC adaptor If you use your computer at more than one site
Battery charger The battery charger lets you charge extra
User’s Manual 1-14
PC4200) can easily be installed in the computer.
from your TOSHIBA dealer. Use it as a spare or
replacement.
■ High Capacity battery pack (8800 mAh)
■ Battery pack (4700 mAh)
frequently, it may be convenient to purchase an
additional AC adaptor for each site so you will not
have to carry the adaptor with you.
batteries outside the computer.
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