Toshiba A6 User Manual
User’s Manual
TECRA A6
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Copyright
Disclaimer
TECRA A6 Series
© 2006 by TOSHIBA Corporation. All rights reserved. Under copyright law,
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 A6 Series Portable Personal Computer User's Manual
First edition February 2006
Ownership and copyright of music, videos computer programs, databases,
etc. are protected by the copyright laws. These copyrighted materials may
be copied for private use at home only. If, beyond the limitation above, you
copy (including to transform data formats) or modify these materials,
transfer them or distribute them via the Internet without approval of
copyright owners, you may be subject to claims for compensation for
damage and/or criminal penalities due to infringements of copyrights or
personal rights. Please remember to observe the copyright laws when you
use this product to copy the copyrighted works or perform other actions.
Please note that you may infringe the owner's rights protected by the
copyright laws if you use the screen mode switching functions (e.g.Wide
mode, Wide Zoom mode, etc.) of this product to display enlarged images/
video at coffee shops or hotels for the purposes of profits or providing these
to the public.
This manual has been validated and reviewed for accuracy. The
instructions and descriptions it contains are accurate for the TECRA A6
series Portable Personal Computers 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.
User’s Manual ii
Trademarks
IBM is a registered trademark and IBM PC, OS/2, and PS/2 are trademarks
of International Business Machines Corporation. Celeron, Intel, Intel
SpeedStep, and Intel Core are trademarks or registered trademarks of Intel
Corporation.
MS-DOS, Microsoft, Windows and DirectX are registered trademarks of
Microsoft Corporation.
Centronics is a registered trademark of Centronics Data Computer
Corporation.
Photo CD is a trademark of Eastman Kodak.
Bluetooth is a trademark owned by its proprietor and used by TOSHIBA
under license.
iLINK is a trademark of Sony Corporation.
Other trademarks and registered trademarks not listed above may be used
in this manual.
Macrovision License of Notice
This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected
by methods and claims of certain U.S. patents and other intellectual rights
owned by Macrovision Corporation, and other rights owners. Use of this
copyright protection technology must be authorized by Macrovision
Corporation and is intended for home and other limited viewing uses only
unless authorized by Macrovision Corporation. Reverse engineering of
disassembly is prohibited.
TECRA A6 Series
Safety Instructions
Use the following safety guidelines to help protect yourself and your
computer.
When Using Your Computer
Do not operate your portable computer for an extended period of time with
the base resting directly on your body. With extended operation, heat can
potentially build up in the base. Allowing sustained contact with the skin
could cause discomfort or, eventually, a burn.
■ Do not attempt to service the computer yourself. Always follow
installation instructions closely.
■ Do not carry a battery in your pocket, purse, or other container where
metal objects (such as car keys) could short-circuit the battery
terminals. The resulting excessive current follow can cause extremely
high temperatures and may result in damage from burns.
■ Be sure that nothing rests on your AC adapter's power cable and that
the cable is not located where it can be tripped over or stepped on.
User’s Manual iii
TECRA A6 Series
■ Place the AC adapter in a ventilated area, such as a desk top or on the
floor, when you use it to run the computer or to charge the battery. Do
not cover the AC adapter with papers or other items that will reduce
cooling; also, do not use the AC adapter while it is inside a carrying
case.
■ Use only the AC adapter and batteries that are approved for use with
this computer. Use of another type of battery or AC adapter may risk fire
or explosion.
■ Before you connect the computer to a power source, ensure that the
voltage rating of the AC adapter matches that of the available power
source.
115 V/60Hz in most of North and South America and some Far Eastern
countries such as Taiwan.
100 V/50Hz in eastern Japan and 100 V/60Hz in western Japan.
230 V/50 Hz in most of Europe, the Middle East, and the Far East.
■ If you use an extension cable with your AC adapter, ensure that the total
ampere rating of the products that are plugged into it do not exceed the
ampere rating of the extension cable itself.
■ To help avoid the potential hazard of electric shock, do not connect or
disconnect any cables or perform maintenance or reconfiguration of this
product during an electrical storm.
■ When setting up the computer for work, place it on a level surface.
■ Do not dispose of batteries in a fire. They may explode. Check with
local authorities for disposal instructions.
■ When traveling, do not check the computer as baggage. You can put
your computer through an X-ray security machine, but never put your
computer through a metal detector. If you have the computer checked
by hand, be sure to have a charged battery available in case you are
asked to turn on the computer.
■ When traveling with the hard drive removed from the computer, wrap
the drive in a non-conducting material, such as cloth or paper. If you
have the drive checked by hand, be ready to install the drive in the
computer. Your can put the hard drive through an X-ray security
machine, but never put it through a metal detector.
■ When traveling, do not place the computer in overhead storage
compartments where it could slide around. Do not drop your computer
or subject it to other mechanical shocks.
■ Protect your computer, battery, and hard drive from environmental
hazards such as dirt, dust, food, liquids, temperature extremes, and
overexposure to sunlight.
■ When you move your computer between environments with very
different temperature and/or humidity ranges, condensation may form
on or within the computer. To avoid damaging the computer, allow
sufficient time for the moisture to evaporate before using the computer.
User’s Manual iv
TECRA A6 Series
■ When you disconnect a cable, pull on its connector or on its strain relief
loop, not on the cable itself. As you pull out the connector, keep it
evenly aligned to avoid bending any connector pins. Also, before you
connect a cable make sure both connectors are correctly oriented and
aligned.
■ Before you clean your computer, turn if off, unplug it from its power
source, and remove the battery.
■ Handle components with care. Hold a component such as a memory
module by its edges, not its pins.
When using telephone equipment in conjunction with your computer, basic
safety precautions should always be followed to reduce the risk of fire,
electric shock and injury to persons, including the following:
■ Do not use this product near water, for example, near a bathtub,
washing bowl, kitchen sink or laundry tub, in a wet basement or near a
swimming pool.
■ Avoid using a telephone (other than a cordless type) during an electrical
storm. There may be a remote risk of electric shock from lightning.
■ Do not use the telephone to report a gas leak in the vicinity of the leak.
■ Use only the power cord indicated in this manual.
■ Replace only with the same or equivalent type battery recommended by
the manufacturer.
■ Dispose of used batteries according to the manufacturer's instructions.
■ To reduce the risk of fire, use only No. 26 AWG or larger
telecommunication line cord.
Use only the battery pack that came with the computer or an optional
battery pack. Use of the wrong battery could damage your computer.
TOSHIBA assumes no liability for any damage in such case.
User’s Manual v
EU Declaration of Conformity
CE compliance
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/EC 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
This product and the original options 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 options or cables not produced by TOSHIBA are connected or
implemented. In this case the persons who have connected / implemented
those options / cables have to provide assurance that the system (PC plus
options / cables) still fulfils the required standards. To avoid general EMC
problems, the following guidance should be noted:
■ Only CE marked accessories should be connected / implemented.
■ Only best shielded cables should be connected.
TECRA A6 Series
Following information is only for EU-member states:
The symbol indicates that this product may not be treated as
household waste. Please ensure this product is properly
disposed as inappropriate waste handling of this product may
cause potential hazards to the environment and human health.
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.
This symbol may not stick depending on the country and region where you
purchased.
User’s Manual vi
Optical Disc Drive Safety Instruction
Be sure to check the international precautions at the end of this section.
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.
CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT
LASER KLASSE 1
LUOKAN 1 LASERLAITE
APPAREIL A LASER DE CLASSE 1
KLASS 1 LASER APPARAT
The drive with the above label 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.
This computer is equipped with one of the optical drive in the following list
according to the model
Manufacturer Type
Panasonic Communications Co., LTD. CD-RW/DVD-ROM UJDA770
Hitachi LG Data Storage, Inc. CD-RW/DVD-ROM GCC-4244
Panasonic Communications Co., LTD. DVD Super Multi UJ-850B
Hitachi LG Data Storage, Inc. DVD Super Multi GMA-4082N
Pioneer DVD Super Multi DVR-K16TBS
TOSHIBA Samsung Storage
Technology
TEAC DVD Super Multi DV-W28EB
NEC DVD Super Multi ND-7550
TOSHIBA Samsung Storage
Technology
DVD-ROM SDC 2732
CD-RW/DVD-ROM TS-L462C
TECRA A6 Series
User’s Manual vii
International precautions
■ This drive employs a laser system. To ensure proper use of this
product, please read this instruction 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.
Location of the required label
Sample shown below. Location of the label on the drive and manufacturing
information may vary.
TECRA A6 Series
CAUTION: This appliance contains a laser
system and is classified as a "CLASS 1 LASER
PRODUCT". To use this model properly, read the
instruction manual carefully and keep this manual
for your future reference. In case of any trouble
with this model, please contact your nearest
"AUTHORIZED service station". To prevent direct
exposure to the laser beam, do not try to open the
enclosure.
User’s Manual viii
TECRA A6 Series
VORSICHT: Dieses Gerät enthält ein LaserSystem und ist als „LASERSCHUTZKLASSE 1
PRODUKT“ klassifiziert. Für den richtigen
Gebrauch dieses Modells lesen Sie bitte die
Bedienungsanleitung sorgfältig durch und
bewahren diese bitte als Referenz auf. Falls
Probleme mit diesem Modell auftreten,
benachrichtigen Sie bitte die nächste „autorisierte
Service-Vertretung“. Um einen direkten Kontakt
mit dem Laserstrahl zu vermeiden darf das Gerät
nicht geöffnet werden.
ADVARSEL: Denne mærking er anbragt
udvendigt på apparatet og indikerer, at apparatet
arbejder med laserstråler af klasse 1, hviket
betyder, at der anvendes laserstrlier af svageste
klasse, og at man ikke på apparatets yderside kan
bilve udsat for utilladellg kraftig stråling.
APPARATET BOR KUN ÅBNES AF FAGFOLK
MED SÆRLIGT KENDSKAB TIL APPARATER
MED LASERSTRÅLER!
Indvendigt i apparatet er anbragt den her
gengivne advarselsmækning, som advarer imod
at foretage sådanne indgreb i apparatet, at man
kan komme til at udsætte sig for laserstråling.
OBS! Apparaten innehåller laserkomponent som
avger laserstråining överstigande gränsen för
laserklass 1.
VAROITUS. Suojakoteloa si saa avata. Laite
sisältää laserdiodin, joka lähetää näkymätöntä
silmilie vaarallista lasersäteilyä.
CAUTION: USE OF CONTROLS OR
ADJUSTMENTS OR PERFORMANCE OF
PROCEDURES OTHER THAN THOSE
SPECIFIED IN THE OWNER'S MANUAL MAY
RESULT IN HAZARDOUS RADIATION
EXPOSURE.
VORSICHT: DIE VERWENDUNG VON
ANDEREN STEURUNGEN ODER
EINSTELLUNGEN ODER DAS DURCHFÜHREN
VON ANDEREN VORGÄNGEN ALS IN DER
BEDIENUNGSANLEITUNG BESCHRIEBEN
KÖNNEN GEFÄHRLICHE
STRAHLENEXPOSITIONEN ZUR FOLGE
HABEN.
User’s Manual ix
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 confirm 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 P03, 04,
Spain ATAAB AN005, 007, 012, and ES01
Switzerland ATAAB AN002
Norway ATAAB AN002, 005, 007 and NO01, 02
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.
TECRA A6 Series
and DE03, 04, 05, 08, 09, 12, 14, 17
08, 10
ATAAB AN003, 004
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.
User’s Manual x
Stress injury
Carefully read the Instruction Manual for Safety and 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.
Heat injury
■ Avoid prolonged physical contact with the bottom of 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, 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 adapter can become hot when in use. This
condition does not indicate a malfunction. If you need to transport the
AC adapter, disconnect it and let it cool before moving it.
■ Do not lay the AC adapter 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 damage computer components or
otherwise cause malfunctions.
TECRA A6 Series
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 phones
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.
LCD
Over a period of time, and depending on the usage of the computer, the
brightness of the LCD screen will deteriorate. This is an intrinsic
characteristic of LCD technology. Maximum brightness is only available
when operating in AC power mode. The screen will dim when the computer
is operated on battery power and you may not be able to increase the
brightness of the screen.
User’s Manual xi
Working environment
This product was designed to fulfill the EMC (Electromagnetic
Compatibility) requirements for "residential, commercial and light industry
environments".
The following environment is not approved:
■ Industrial Environments (e.g. environments where a with a mains
voltage of 380V threephase is being used).
In the following environments the use of this product can be restricted:
■ Medical Environments: This product is not certified as a medical
product according to the Medical Product Directive 93/42/EEC, but can
be used in office areas where the use is not restricted. Please disable
the wireless LAN or Bluetooth hardware in such areas as long this
feature is not official supported by the operator of the related medical
facility.
■ Vehicle Environments: Please read operator’s manual of the vehicle
manufacturer for further restrictions of use.
■ Aircraft Environments: Please following the advices of the flight
personnel regarding restrictions of use.
Any consequences resulting from the use of this product in working
environments that are not approved or the use is restricted are not the
responsibility of Toshiba Corporation. The consequences of the use of this
product in those working environments may be:
■ Interference with other devices or machines in the nearby surrounding
area.
■ Malfunction of, or data loss from, this product caused by disturbances
generated by other devices or machines in the nearby surrounding
area.
Furthermore, for general safety reasons, the use of this product in
environments with explosive atmospheres is not permitted.
TECRA A6 Series
Network connection (Class A warning)
If this product has networking capabilities and will be connected to a
network, Class A radiation limits will be observed (in accordance with
technical conventions). This means that if the product will be used in a
domestic environment, other devices in the near surrounding area may
suffer interference. Consequently, please do not use this product in such
environments (for example a living room), otherwise you could be held
responsible for any ensuring interference.
Information on the secure writing to optical disc media
Even if your software gives no indication that any problems have occurred,
you should always check to ensure that information has been successfully
stored on recordable optical media (CD-R, CD-RW and so forth).
User’s Manual xii
Wireless LAN and your Health
Wireless LAN products, like other radio devices, emit radio frequency
electromagnetic energy. The level of energy emitted by Wireless LAN
devices however is far less than the electromagnetic energy emitted by
other wireless devices such as mobile phones.
Because Wireless LAN products operate within the guidelines found in
radio frequency safety standards and recommendations, TOSHIBA
believes Wireless LAN is safe for use by consumers. These standards and
recommendations reflect the consensus of the scientific community and
result from deliberations of panels and committees of scientists who
continually review and interpret the extensive research literature.
In some situations or environments, the use of Wireless LAN may be
restricted by the proprietor of the building or responsible representatives of
the organisation. These situations may for example include:
■ Using the Wireless LAN equipment on board of aeroplanes.
■ In any other environment where the risk of interference to other devices
or services is perceived or identified as harmful.
If you are uncertain of the policy that applies on the use of wireless devices
in a specific organisation or environment (e.g. airports), you are
encouraged to ask for authorisation to use the Wireless LAN device prior to
turning on the equipment.
Safety Instruction for Wireless Products
If your computer has a wireless function, all safety instructions must be
read carefully and must be fully understood, before you attempt to use it.
This manual contains the safety instructions that must be observed in order
to avoid potential hazards that could result in personal injuries or could
damage your wireless products.
TECRA A6 Series
Limitation of Liability
For damage occurring due to an earthquake or thunder, fire beyond our
responsibility, action by third party, other accident, intentional or accidental
mistakes by a user, misuse or use under abnormal conditions, we do not
take any responsibility.
For incidental damage (loss of business profit, business interruption, etc.)
occurring due to use or disability of the product, we do not take any
responsibility.
For damage occurring due to non observance of the contents described in
the instruction manual, we do not take any responsibility.
For damage occurring due to erroneous operation or hang up caused by
use in combination with products not related to our company, we do not
take any responsibility.
User’s Manual xiii
TECRA A6 Series
Usage Restrictions
Do not use the Wireless Products for controlling the following equipment:
■ Equipment directly linked with human life corresponding to the
following.
■ Medical equipment such as life support systems, equipment used in
operations, etc.
■ Exhaust systems for gases such as poisonous gas etc. and exhaust
systems for smoke.
■ Equipment that must be set up in compliance with various laws such
as the Fire Services Act, the Construction Standard Act, etc.
■ Equipment corresponding to that mentioned above.
■ Equipment linked with human safety or having a serious influence on
the safe maintenance of public function, etc., because it is not designed
or manufactured for this type of use.
■ Traffic control equipment for air, railroad, road, marine transport, etc.
■ Equipment used in atomic power plants etc.
■ Equipment corresponding to that mentioned above.
User’s Manual xiv
TECRA A6 Series
Warning
Turn OFF the Wireless Communication switch of wireless products in a
congested place, such as a crowded commuter train.
Keep this product away from a cardiac pacemaker at least 22 cm.
Radio waves can potentially affect cardiac pacemaker operation, thereby
causing respiratory troubles.
Turn OFF the Wireless communication switch inside a medical facility or
near medical electric equipment. Do not bring medical electric equipment
close to the product.
Radio waves can potentially affect medical electric equipment, thereby
causing an accident due to malfunction.
Turn OFF the Wireless communication switch near an automatic door, fire
alarm or other automatic control equipment.
Radio waves can potentially affect automatic control equipment, thereby
causing an accident due to malfunction.
Do not turn ON the Wireless communication switch in aircraft or in places
that generate or can generate radio interference.
Radio waves can potentially affect equipment, such as that used on-board
aircraft, causing an accident due to malfunction.
You should monitor possible radio interference or other issues that may
arise with other equipment while the product is used. If any effect is noted,
turn OFF the Wireless communication switch.
Otherwise, radio waves can potentially affect other equipment, thereby
causing an accident due to malfunction.
When using the product in a car, check with the automobile dealer if the
car has an adequate electromagnetic compatibility (EMC).
Radio waves of the product can potentially hamper safe driving.
Depending on car model, the product can rarely affect car electronic
equipment if it is used in a car.
Note
Do not use this product in the following places:
Near a microwave oven or other environment which generates a magnetic
field.
Near any place or equipment that generates static electricity or radio
interference.
Depending on the environment, in a place where radio waves cannot reach
the product.
User’s Manual xv
Table of Contents
Chapter 1 TECRA A6 Features
Features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-1
Special features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-9
Utilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-11
Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-13
Chapter 2 The Grand Tour
Front with the display closed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-1
Right side . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
Left side. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-4
Back side. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-5
Underside . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-6
Front with the display open. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
Keyboard Indicators. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-8
Optical Disc drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-9
Chapter 3 Getting Started
Setting up your work space. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-1
Connecting the AC adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4
Opening the display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-5
Turning on the power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-6
Starting up for the first time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-6
Turning off the power. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-7
Restarting the computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-10
Restoring the preinstalled software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-11
Chapter 4 Operating Basics
Using the TouchPad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-1
Using the internal modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2
LAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-6
Wireless LAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-7
Using optical disc drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-9
Writing CDs on a CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-14
User’s Manual xvi
Writing CDs/DVDs on a DVD Super Multi drive
supporting double layer disc recording. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-16
When Using WinDVD Creator 2 Platinum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-19
RecordNow! Basic for TOSHIBA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-22
DLA for TOSHIBA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-23
Media Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-24
Discs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-24
TV-Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-25
Setting up more than one display. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-25
Cleaning the computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-26
Moving the computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-26
Chapter 5 The Keyboard
Typewriter keys. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-1
F1 ... F12 function keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-2
Soft keys: Fn key combinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-2
Hotkeys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
Windows special keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-4
Keypad overlay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-4
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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-13
Power-up modes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-14
Panel power off/on . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-14
System automatic Standby/Hibernation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-14
Chapter 7 HW Setup
Accessing HW Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-1
HW Setup Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-1
Chapter 8 Optional Devices
PC Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-2
SD/MMC/MS/MS Pro/xD Memory cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-4
Memory expansion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-6
Additional battery pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9
Additional AC adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-9
Battery charger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-9
External monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-10
Television . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-10
i.LINK (IEEE1394) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-17
Security lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-18
Advanced Port Replicator III Plus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-18
TECRA A6 Series
User’s Manual xvii
TECRA A6 Series
Chapter 9
Troubleshooting
Problem solving process. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-1
Hardware and system checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-3
TOSHIBA support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-18
Chapter 10 Disclaimers
CPU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-1
Memory (Main System) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-2
Battery Life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-2
HDD Drive Capacity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-2
LCD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3
Graphics Processor Unit ("GPU"). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-3
Wireless LAN/Intel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-3
Non-applicable Icons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-3
Copy Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-3
Images . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-3
LCD Brightness and Eye Strain. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-4
Appendix A Specifications
Appendix B Display Modes
Appendix C AC Power Cord and Connectors
Appendix D If your computer is stolen
Glossary
User’s Manual xviii
Preface
Congratulations on your purchase of the TECRA A6 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 A6 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 TECRA A6 Features 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 TECRA A6 Features, to learn about features
that are unique to the computer.
Manual contents
This manual has ten chapters, four appendixes and glossary.
Chapter 1, TECRA A6 Features, is an overview of the computer's special
features, utilities, 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. Be sure to read the sections on setting up the operating system and
on restoring the preinstalled software.
Chapter 4, Operating Basics, includes instructions on using the following
devices: TouchPad, the optical disc drives, the internal modem, LAN and
wireless LAN. It also provides tips on care of the computer, disks and DVD/
CD-ROMs.
User’s Manual xix
Chapter 5, The Keyboard, describes special keyboard functions including
the keypad overlay and hotkeys.
Chapter 6, Power and Power-Up Modes, gives details on the computer's
power resources.
Chapter 7, HW Setup, introduces you to the TOSHIBA Hardware 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.
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.
TECRA A6 Series
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.
User’s Manual xx
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.
DISKCOPY A: B: 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
Names of windows or icons or text generated by
the computer that appears on its display screen is
ABC
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.
TECRA A6 Series
Please read. A note is a hint or advice that helps you make best use of
your equipment.
Equipment checklist
Carefully unpack your computer. Save the box and packing materials for
future use. Check to make sure you have all the following items:
Hardware
■ TECRA A6 Series Portable Personal Computer
■ Universal AC Adapter and Power Cord
■ Modular cable for modem (optional)
User’s Manual xxi
Software
Microsoft® Windows® XP Professional
■ The following software which is preinstalled on your hard disk:
®
■ Microsoft
■ DVD Video Player
■ TOSHIBA Power Saver
■ TOSHIBA ConfigFree
■ TOSHIBA Assist
■ TOSHIBA Controls
■ TOSHIBA PC Diagnostic Tool
■ TOSHIBA TouchPad On/Off Utility
■ RecordNow! Basic for TOSHIBA
■ DLA for TOSHIBA
■ TOSHIBA Zooming Utility
■ TOSHIBA CD/DVD Drive Acoustic Silencer
■ TOSHIBA Hardware Setup
■ TOSHIBA Accessibility
■ TOSHIBA Hotkey Utility
■ WinDVD Creator 2 Platinum
■ TOSHIBA Mobile Extension 3
■ Infineon TPM Professional Package
■ TOSHIBA SD Memory Card Format
■ TOSHIBA Supervisor Password
■ TOSHIBA Touch and Launch
■ Bluetooth Stack for Windows by Toshiba (depending on model
purchased)
■ Product Recovery disc
Windows® XP Professional
TECRA A6 Series
The system may not function properly if you use drivers that are not
preinstalled or distributed by TOSHIBA.
Documentation
■ Your computer's documentation:
■ TECRA A6 Series Personal Computer User's Manual
■ TECRA A6 Quickstart
■ Instruction Manual for Safety and Comfort
■ Warranty information
If any of the items are missing or damaged, contact your dealer
immediately.
User’s Manual xxii
TECRA A6 Features
This chapter identifies the computer's special 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.
Features
The TECRA A6 Series 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:
Processor
Depending on the model you purchased:
Intel
T2500/T2600
Intel
Intel Celeron™ M Processor 410 or higher
Chapter 1
®
Core™ Duo Processor T2300/T2400/
®
Core™ Solo Processor T1300/T1400
Disclaimer (CPU)
For more information on the Disclaimer regarding CPU, please refer to the
Chapter 10, Disclaimers.
User’s Manual 1-1
TECRA A6 Features
Chip Set
Intel® 945PM Express Chipset or
®
945GM Express Chipset
Intel
Realtek 861 Audio codec
TI PCI7412 for Multiple Digital Media Card Slot,
IEEE 1394 and PCMCIA controller.
®
82562GZ for 10/100Mbps LAN controller
Intel
or
®
82573L for 10M/100M/1Gbps LAN
Intel
controller
Memory
The graphics system in your computer may use part of the main system
memory for graphics performance and therefore reduce the amount of
system memory available for other computing activities. The amount of
system memory allocated to support graphics may vary depending on the
graphics system, applications utilized, system memory size and other
factors.
Slot 256, 512 or 1,024 MB memory modules can be
installed in the two main memory slots for a
maximum of 2,048 MB of system memory.
User’s Manual 1-2
TECRA A6 Features
Video RAM Depending on the model you purchased:
Up to 128 MB integrated solution and shared with
main memory for Mobile Intel
®
945GM Express
Chipset.
128 MB or 256 MB TurboCache™ (64 MB or
128 MB for local cache) with NVIDIA
®
Quadro™
NVS 110M GPU with TurboCache™.
128 MB, 256 MB or 512 MB HyperMemory™
(64 MB,128 MB or 256 MB for local cache) for ATI
Mobility™ Radeon® X1400 with HyperMemory™.
HyperMemory™ and TurboCache™ VRAM size
will vary depending on system memory size.
®
The ATI Mobility™ Radeon
X1400 and NVIDIA®
Quadro™ NVS 110M GPU utilizes the additional
bandwidth of PCI Express to reach higher levels
of graphics performance than traditional graphics
memory solutions.
The graphics controller shares the capacity and
bandwidth of dedicated graphics memory and
dynamically available system memory for
turbocharged performance and larger total
graphics memory.
The VRAM capacity indicated in the display
properties is the sum of the discreet graphics
memory and the maximum possible graphics
memory allocated dynamically by the system
memory. The system memory capacity indicated
in the Microsoft
®
Windows® PROPERTIES
display is the maximum possible system memory
capacity without adjustment for any system
memory which may be dynamically allocated to
the graphics system depending on demand.
BIOS
1 MB Flash ROM for system BIOS
Suspend to memory or hard disk drive
Hardware password protection
Various Hotkey functions for system control
Complete ACPI 1.0b functionality
User’s Manual 1-3
TECRA A6 Features
Power
Battery Pack 6-cell Lithium Ion smart battery pack with
43.2 watt capacity (10.8V/4000mAH) or
9-cell Lithium Ion smart battery pack with
64.8 watt capacity (10.8V/6000mAH) or
12-cell Lithium Ion smart battery pack with
92.88 watt capacity (10.8V/8600mAH).
(Battery type depends on the model purchased.)
Approximately 12 hours or longer charging time to
100% battery capacity with system switched on.
Approximately 4 hours charge time to 100%
battery capacity with system switched off.
Approximately 2 days discharging time in Standby
Mode for the 12-cell battery, 1.5 day for the 9-cell
battery and 1 days for 6-cell battery.
Discharge time in shutdown mode is
approximately 1 month.
Disclaimer (Battery Life)
For more information on the Disclaimer regarding Battery Life, please refer
to the Chapter 10, Disclaimers.
RTC Battery The internal RTC battery backs up the Real Time
Clock (RTC), calender and setup information.
This battery will last for an average of one month
with no external power source.
AC adapter The universal AC adapter provides power to the
system and recharges the batteries when they
are low. It comes with a detachable power cord.
Floppy Disk Drive devices
External USB Floppy Disk Drive (depends on the
model purchased).
TouchPad
A TouchPad and control buttons in the palm rest
enable control of the on-screen pointer.
Display
14.1" WXGA TFT screen with a resolution of
1280 horizontal × 800 vertical pixels.
14.1" WXGA+ TFT screen with a resolution of
1440 horizontal × 900 vertical pixels.
User’s Manual 1-4
TECRA A6 Features
Disclaimer (LCD)
For more information on the Disclaimer regarding LCD, please refer to the
Chapter 10, Disclaimers.
Graphics controller ATI Mobility™ Radeon® X1400
NVIDIA Quadoro NVS 110
(Graphics controller chipset depends on the
model purchased)
The graphics controller maximizes display
performance. Refer to Appendix B, Display
Modes for more information.
Disclaimer (Graphics Processor Unit ("GPU"))
For more information on the Disclaimer regarding Graphic Processor Unit
("GPU"), please refer to the Chapter 10, Disclaimers.
Disks
Fixed hard disk Depending on the model purchased, one of the
following drives will be installed:
40.0 billion bytes (37.26GB)
60.0 billion bytes (55.88GB)
80.0 billion bytes (74.52GB)
100.0 billion bytes (93.16GB)
120.0 billion bytes (111.78GB)
9.5m/m 2.5" hard disk drive support
Serial ATA I interface
User’s Manual 1-5
TECRA A6 Features
Disclaimer (HDD Drive Capacity)
For more information on the Disclaimer regarding HDD Drive Capacity,
please refer to the Chapter 10, Disclaimers.
CD-RW/DVD-ROM
drive
DVD-ROM drive Some models are equipped with a full-size
Some models are equipped with a full-size
CD-RW/DVD-ROM module that lets you record
data to rewritable CD/CD-RWs as well as run
either 12 cm (4.72") or 8 cm (3.15") CD/DVDs
without using an adapter. It reads DVD-ROMs at
maximum 8 speed and CD-ROMs at maximum
24 speed. It writes CD-Rs at up to 24 speed,
CD-RWs at up to 24 speed. This drive supports
the following formats:
■ DVD-ROM ■ DVD-Video
■ CD-R ■ CD-RW
■ CD-DA ■ CD-Text
■ Photo CD (single/multi-session)
■ CD-ROM Mode1, Mode2
■ CD-ROMXA Mode2 (Form1, Form2)
■ Enhanced CD(CD-EXTRA)
DVD-ROM module that lets run either 12 cm
(4.72") or 8 cm (3.15") CD/DVDs without using an
adapter. It reads DVD-ROMs at maximum
8 speed and CD-ROMs at maximum 24 speed.
This drive supports the following formats:
■ DVD-ROM ■ DVD-Video
■ CD-R ■ CD-RW
■ CD-DA ■ CD-Text
■ Photo CD (single/multi-session)
■ CD-ROM Mode1, Mode2
■ CD-ROMXA Mode2 (Form1, Form2)
■ Enhanced CD(CD-EXTRA)
User’s Manual 1-6
TECRA A6 Features
DVD Super Multi drive
with double layer disc
recording support
Some models are equipped with a full-size DVD
Super Multi drive module with double layer
support that lets you record data to rewritable CD/
DVDs as well as run either 12 cm (4.72") or 8 cm
(3.15") CD/DVDs without using an adapter. It
reads DVD-ROMs at maximum 8 speed and
CD-ROMs at maximum 24 speed. It writes CD-Rs
at up to 24 speed, CD-RWs at up to 16 speed,
DVD-Rs at maximum 8 speed, DVD-RWs at
maximum 6 speed, DVD+RWs at maximum
8 speed, DVD+Rs at maximum 8 speed, DVD+R
(double layer) at maximum 4 speed, DVD-R
(dual layer) at maximum 4 speed, and DVD-RAM
at maximum 5 speed. This drive supports the
same formats as the CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive
plus the following:
■ DVD-ROM ■ DVD-Video
■ DVD-R ■ DVD-RW
■ DVD+R ■ DVD+RW
■ DVD-RAM ■ DVD+R (double layer)
■ DVD-R (dual layer)
■ CD-R ■ CD-RW
■ CD-DA ■ CD-Text
■ Photo CD (single/multi-session)
■ CD-ROM Mode1, Mode2
■ CD-ROMXA Mode2 (Form1, Form2)
■ Enhanced CD (CD-EXTRA)
Computers in this series can be configured with multiple types of optical
disc drive. For more information on the optical disc drives available, talk to
your dealer. More information on using the optical disc drive can be found
in Chapter 4, Operating Basics.
Slots (depending on configuration)
PC Card Accommodates one type II device.
Multiple Digital Media
Card Reader (SD/
MMC/MS/MS Pro/xD)
User’s Manual 1-7
Lets you easily transfer data from five different
types of common multimedia memory card used
in a variety of devices, such as PDAs and digital
cameras.
TECRA A6 Features
Ports (depending on configuration)
Docking Special port for connecting an Optional Port
Replicator.
External monitor 15-pin analog VGA port supports VESA DDC2B
compatible functions.
Universal Serial Bus The computer has 4 Universal Serial Bus (USB)
ports that comply with the USB 2.0 standard,
which enables data transfer speeds more than
40 times faster than USB 1.1 (which this
computer also supports).
i.LINK (IEEE 1394) Enables high-speed data transfer directly from
external device such as digital video cameras.
Infrared Allows the transfer of data between your
computer and devices such as cell phones via an
infrared signal. This serial infrared port is
compatible with the Infrared Data Association
(IrDA 1.1) standards.
(Availability depends on configuration.)
TV Out The 4-pin S-Video port is compatible with PAL or
NTSC TV standard, supporting Macrovision 7.02
copy protection.
Multimedia
®
Sound system The integrated Windows
system provides support for internal speakers as
well as jacks for an external microphone and
headphones.
Headphone jack A standard 3.5 mm stereo jack is provided for the
connection of external headphones or speakers.
Microphone jack A standard 3.5 mm mini microphone jack enables
connection of monaural microphone input.
compatible sound
Communications
Modem An internal modem provides capability for data
and fax communication. It supports the V.90 or
V.92 standards depending on the region and
provides a modem jack for connection to a
telephone line. The speed of data and fax transfer
depends on the analog telephone line conditions.
LAN The computer has built-in support for Ethernet
User’s Manual 1-8
LAN (10 megabits per second, 10BASE-T), Fast
Ethernet LAN (100 Mbps 100BASE-TX), or
Gigabit Ethernet LAN (1000 Mbps, 1000BASE-T).
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