Toshiba Laptop A500, Laptop A500D User Manual

User’s Manual

Satellite A500/A500D

computers.toshiba-europe.com

Satellite A500/A500D

© 2009 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 Satellite A500/A500D Portable Personal Computer User’s Manual

First edition November 2009 Copyright authority for music, movies, computer programs, databases 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, al teration, 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 Satellite A500/A500D 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.

Trademarks

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

Intel, Intel Core, Celeron, Centrino and Pentium are registered trademark or trademarks of Intel Corporation.

Microsoft and Windows Microsoft Corporation.

DirectX, ActiveDesktop, DirectShow, and Windows Media are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.

Adobe and Photoshop are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Adobe system Incorporated in the United States.

Bluetooth™ is a trademark owned by its proprietor and used by TOSHIBA under license.

ConfigFree is a trademark of TOSHIBA Corporation, DVD MovieFactory is a registered trademark of the Corel Corporations. WinDVD is a trademark of the Corel Corporations.

ii User’s Manual

are either registered trademarks or trademarks of

Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories. ExpressCard is a trademark of PCMCIA HDMI, the HDMI logo and High-Definition Multimedia Interface are

trademarks or registered trademarks of HDMI Licensing LLC. Photo CD is a trademark of Eastman Kodak. Wi-Fi is a registered trademark of the Wi-Fi Alliance. Memory Stick, Memory Stick PRO, Memory Stick PRO Duo and i.LINK are

registered trademarks and i.LINK is a trademark of SONY Corporation. Secure Digital and SD are trademarks of SD Card Association. MultiMediaCard and MMC are trademarks of MultiMediaCard Association. xD-Picture Card is a trademark of FUJIFILM Corporation. Other trademarks and registered trademarks not listed above may be used

in this manual.

Macrovision License of Notice

For DVD Manufacturing License Agreement

This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by U.S. patents and other intellectual property rights, including U.S. Patent Numbers 5,315,448; 5,583,936; 6,836,549 and 7,050,698. Use of this copyright protection technology must be authorized by Macrovision, and is intended for home and other viewing uses only unless otherwise authorized by Macrovision. Reverse engineering or disassembly is prohibited. The copyright protection technology availability depends on the model you purchased.

Satellite A500/A500D

EU Conformity Statement

This product and - if applicable - the supplied accessories too are marked with “CE” and comply therefore with the applicable harmonized European standards listed under the Low Voltage Directive 2006/95/EC, the EMC Directive 2004/108/EC and/or R&TTE Directive 1999/5/EC.

Responsible for CE-marking: TOSHIBA EUROPE GMBH, Hammfelddamm 8, 41460 Neuss, Germany. Manufacturer: Toshiba Corporation, 1-1 Shibaura 1-chome, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-8001,

Japan The complete official EU CE Declaration can be obtained on following

internet page: http://epps.toshiba-teg.com/

User’s Manual iii

Satellite A500/A500D

CE compliance

This product is labelled with the CE Mark in accordance with the related European Directives, notably Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive 2004/108/EC for the notebook and the electronic accessories including the supplied power adapter, the Radio Equipment and Telecommunications Terminal Equipment Directive 1999/5/EC in case of implemented telecommunication accessories and the Low Voltage Directive 2006/95/EC for the supplied power adapter.

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 options should be connected / implemented

■ Only best shielded cables should be connected

Working environment

This product was designed to fulfil the EMC (Electromagnetic Compatibility) requirements to be observed for so-called “Residential, commercial and light industry environments”.

TOSHIBA do not approve the use of this product in working environments other than the above mentioned “Residential, commercial and light industry environments”.

For example, the following environments are not approved:

■ Industrial Environments (e.g. environments where a mains voltage of

■ Medical Environments

■ Automotive Environments

■ Aircraft Environments

Any consequences resulting from the use of this product in working environments that are not approved are not the responsibility of TOSHIBA.

The consequences of the use of this product in non-approved working environments may be:

■ Interference with other devices or machines in the near surrounding area.

■ Malfunction of, or data loss from, this product caused by disturbances

Therefore TOSHIBA strongly recommend that the electromagnetic compatibility of this product should be suitably tested in all non-approved working environments before use. In the case of automobiles or aircraft, the manufacturer or airline respectively should be asked for permission before use of this product.

Furthermore, for general safety reasons, the use of this product in environments with explosi ve atmospheres is not permitted.

380 V three-phase is used)

generated by other devices or machines in the near surrounding area.

iv User’s Manual

Satellite A500/A500D

Important Safety Information for Computers with TV tuner

IEC60950-1/EN60950-1 Information technology equipment - Safety Coaxial cable connection to this computer must only be used if the cable outer conductive shielding has been grounded by the cable installer at the building premises as close to the point of cable entrance, or attachment, as practicable and the connection complies with all local cable installation requirements that are applicable in your area.

Modem warning notice

Conformity Statement

The equipment has been approved to [Commission Decision “CTR21”] for pan-European single terminal connection to the Public Switched T elephone 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 DE03, 04, 05, 08, 09, 12, 14, 17 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 ATAAB AN003, 004

Specific switch settings or software setup is 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.

User’s Manual v

Satellite A500/A500D

Following information is only for EU-member states:

Disposal of products

The crossed out wheeled dust bin symbol indica tes that products must be collected and disposed of separately from household waste. Integrated batteries and accumulators can be disposed of with the product. They will be separated at the recycling centres.

The black bar indicates that the product was placed on the market after August 13, 2005.

By participating in separate collection of products and batteries, you will help to assure the proper disposal of products and batteries and thus help to prevent potential negative consequences for the environment and human health.

For more detailed information about the collection and recycling programmes available in your country, please visit our website (http://eu.computers.toshiba-europe.com) or contact your local city office or the shop where you purchased the pr od u c t.

Disposal of batteries and/or accumulators

The crossed out wheeled dust bin symbol indicates that batteries and/or accumulators must be collected and disposed of separately from household waste.

3E+J&G

If the battery or accumulator contains more than the specified values of lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), and/or cadmium (Cd) defined in the Battery Directive (2006/66/EC), then the chemical symbols for lead (Pb), mercury (Hg) and/or cadmium (Cd) will appear below the crossed out wheeled dust bin symbol.

By participating in separate collection of batteries, you will help to assure the proper disposal of products and batteries and thus help to prevent potential negative consequences for the environment and human health.

This symbol may not be displayed depending on the country and region where you purchased.

vi User’s Manual

ENERGY STAR® Program

Satellite A500/A500D

Y our Computer model may be ENERGY STAR

compliant. If the model you purchased is compliant, it is labeled with the ENERGY STAR logo on the computer and the following information applies.

TOSHIBA is a partner in the ENERGY STAR Program and has designed this computer to meet the latest ENERGY STAR guidelines for energy efficiency . Your computer ships with the power management options preset to a configuration that will provide the most stable operating environment and optimum system performance for both AC power and battery modes.

To conserve energy, your computer is set to enter the low-power Sleep mode which shuts down the system and display within 15 minutes of inactivity in AC power mode. TOSHIBA recommends that you leave this and other energy saving features active, so that your computer will operate at its maximum energy efficiency . You can wake the computer from Sleep mode by pressing the power button.

Products that earn the ENERGY STAR prevent greenhouse gas emissions by meeting strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the US EPA and the EU Commission. According to the EPA, a computer meeting the new ENERGY STAR specifications will use between 20% and 50% less energy depending on how it is used.

Visit http://www.eu-energystar.org or http://www.energystar.gov for more information regarding the ENERGY STAR Program.

Disposing of the computer and the computer’s batteries

■ Discard this computer in accordance with applicable laws and

regulations. For further information, contact your local government.

■ This computer contains rechargeable batteries. After repeated use, the

batteries will finally lose their ability to hold a charge and you will need to replace them. Under certain applicable laws and regulation, it may be illegal to dispose of old batteries by placing them in the trash.

■ Please be kind to our shared environment. Check with your local

government authority for details regarding where to recycle old batteries or how to dispose of them properly. This product contains mercury. Disposal of this material may be regulated due to environmental considerations. For disposal, reuse or recycling information, please contact your local government.

User’s Manual vii

Satellite A500/A500D

REACH - Compliance St atement

The new European Union (EU) chemical regulation, REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals), entered into force on 1 June 2007. Toshiba will meet all REACH requirements and is committed to provide our customers with information about the chemical substances in our products according to REACH regulation.

Please consult the following website

www.toshiba-europe.com/computers/info/reach for information about the

presence in our articles of substances included on the candidate list according to article 59(1) of Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 (“REACH”) in a concentration above 0.1 % weight by weight.

Following information is only for Turkey:

■ Compliant with EEE Regulations: Toshiba meets all requirements of

Turkish regulation 26891 “Restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment”.

■ The number of possible pixel failures of your display is defined

according to ISO 13406-2 standards. If the number of pixel failures is less than this standard, they will not be counted as defect or failure.

■ Battery is a consumption product, since the battery time depends on the

usage of your computer. If the battery can not be charged at all, then it is a defect or failure. The changes in battery time is not a defect or failure.

GOST

viii User’s Manual

Optical disc drive standards

TOSHIBA Satellite A500/A500D computer is shipped with one of the following drives preinstalled: DVD Super Multi (±R DL) drive or BD Writer drive.

The drive has one of the following labels:

CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT LASER KLASSE 1 LUOKAN 1 LASERLAITE APPAREIL A LASER DE CLASSE1 KLASS 1 LASER APP ARAT

Before it is shipped, the Class 1 Laser is certified to meet the United States Chapter 21 S tandards of the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS 21 CFR).

For any other country, the drive is certified to meet the Class 1 Laser standards of IEC825 and EN60825.

Optical disc drive safety instructions

■ The 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 exposu re to the laser beam, do not try to open the

enclosure.

Satellite A500/A500D

User’s Manual ix

Satellite A500/A500D

DVD Super Multi (±R DL) drive

Panasonic UJ890AD/UJ890ED

HLDS GT20N/GT20F

Location of the required label

COMPLIES WITH FDA RADIATION PERFORMANCE STANDARDS, 21 CFR SUBCHAPTER J.

MANUFACTURED

Panasonic Communications Co., Ltd. 1-62, 4-Chome Minoshima Hakata-ku Fukuoka, Japan

Location of the required label

COMPLIES WITH FDA RADIATION PERFORMANCE STANDARDS, 21 CFR SUBCHAPTER J.

MANUFACTURED

Hitachi-LG Data Storage, Inc. 22-23, Kaigan 3-chome, Minato-Ku, Tokyo, 108-0022 Japan

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Satellite A500/A500D

Toshiba Samsung TS-L633 C/TS-L633Y

Location of the required label

PRODUCT IS CERTIFIED BY THE MANUFACTURER TO COMPLY WITH DHHS RULES 21 CFR CHAPTER 1, SUBCHAPTER J, APPLICABLE AT THE DATE OF MANUFACTURE.

MANUFACTURED

Toshiba Samsung Storage Technology Korea Corporation 416, Maetan-3Dong, Yeongtong-Gu, Suwon City, Gyeonggi-Do, 443-742, Korea

BD Writer Drive

Panasonic UJ240EB

■ The BD Writer 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 exposu re to the laser beam, do not try to open the

enclosure.

Location of the required label

COMPLIES WITHFDA RADIATION PERFORMANCE STANDARDS, 21 CFR SUBCHAPTER J

MANUFACTURED

Panasonic Communications Co., Ltd. 1-62, 4-Chome Minoshima Hakata-Ku Fukuoka, Japan

User’s Manual xi

Satellite A500/A500D

TEAC

DVD Super Multi DV-W28S-V/DV-W28S-S

■ The DVD Super Multi drive employs a laser system. To ensure proper

■ Use of controls, adjustments or the performance of procedures other

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

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.

than those specified may result in hazardous radiation exposure.

enclosure.

xii User’s Manual

International precautions

Satellite A500/A500D

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.” T o prevent direct exposure to the laser beam, do not try to open the enclosure.

VORSICHT: Dieses Gerät enthält ein Laser-System 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.

User’s Manual xiii

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 udsatte sig for laserstråling.

Satellite A500/A500D

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 RADIAT ION EXPOSURE.

VORSICHT: DIE VERWENDUNG VON ANDEREN STEUERUNGEN ODER EINSTELLUNGEN ODER DAS DURCHFÜHREN VON ANDEREN VORGÄNGEN ALS IN DER BEDIENUNGSANLEITUNG BESCHRIEBEN KÖNNEN GEFÄHRLICHE STRAHLENEXPOSITIONEN ZUR FOLGE HABEN.

xiv User’s Manual

Preface General Precautions

Chapter 1 Introduction

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

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

Special features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-12

TOSHIBA Value Added Package. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-14

Utilities and Applications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15

Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-18

Chapter 2 The Grand Tour

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

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

Right side . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5

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

Front with the display open. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9

Function buttons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12

System indicators. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13

Optical disc drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15

Remote Controller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18

Using the Remote Controller. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-24

Installing/Removing batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-25

AC adaptor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-29

Chapter 3 Getting Started

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

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

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

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

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

Restarting the computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9

System Recovery Options. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10

Satellite A500/A500D

User’s Manual xv

Satellite A500/A500D

Chapter 4

Operating Basics

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

Using the Fingerprint Sensor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-3

Using the TOSHIBA USB Sleep-and-Charge function . . . . . . . . . . .4-10

Using optical disk drives. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-12

Function buttons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-18

Writing CD/DVD/BD on DVD Super Multi drives or

BD Writer drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-18

Media care. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-31

Sound system. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-33

Using the web camera . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-35

Using TOSHIBA Web Camera Application. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-36

Using TOSHIBA Face Recognition. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-37

Modem. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-41

TV Tu ner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-44

Wireless communications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-46

LAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-49

Cleaning the computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-51

Moving the computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-52

Heat dispersal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-52

Using the Hard Disk Drive (HDD) Protection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-53

Chapter 5 The Keyboard

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

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

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

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

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

Touchpad Enable/Disable Button. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-5

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

Chapter 6 Power and Power-up Modes

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

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

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

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

Replacing the battery pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-9

TOSHIBA Password Utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-11

Power-up modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-13

Chapter 7 HW Setup and Passwords

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

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

HW Setup Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-1

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Satellite A500/A500D

Chapter 8

Optional Devices

ExpressCard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-2

Bridge media slot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4

Additional memory module. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-6

Battery Packs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9

Universal AC Adaptor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9

Battery Charger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9

USB floppy diskette drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-10

eSATA (External Serial ATA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-12

External monitor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-13

Television via HDMI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-14

Security lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-18

Chapter 9 Troubleshooting

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

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

TOSHIBA support. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-26

Chapter 10 Disclaimers

Appendix A Specifications

Environmental requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-1

Appendix B Display Controller

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

Appendix C Wireless LAN

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

Radio Characteristics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-2

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

Appendix D AC Power Cord and Connectors

Certification agencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-1

Appendix E TOSHIBA PC Health Monitor

Starting the TOSHIBA PC Health Monitor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E-2

Appendix F If your computer is stolen

Glossary Index

User’s Manual xvii

Satellite A500/A500D

Preface

Congratulations on your purchase of the TOSHIBA Satellite A500/A500D computer. This powerful notebook computer provides excellent expansion capability, includes multimedia functionality, and is designed to provide years of reliable, high-performance computing.

This manual tells how to set up and begin using your TOSHIBA Satellite A500/A500D 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 read the Special

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

uncommon or unique to the computers and carefully read HW Setup and

Passwords. If you are going to install ExpressCards or connect external

devices such as a printer, be sure to read Chapter 8, Optional Devices.

Manual contents

This manual is composed of the following chapters, 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.

Chapter 4, Operating Basics, includes tips on care of the computer and on using the Touch Pad, the fingerprint sensor, optical disc drive, Audio/Video controls, the web camera, the microphone, the internal modem, wireless communication and LAN.

xviii User’s Manual

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

Chapter 6, Power and Power-up Modes, gives details on the computer’s power resources and battery save modes.

Chapter 7, HW Setup and Passwords, explains how to configure the computer using the HW Setup program. It also tells how to set a password.

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 Legal Footnotes information related to your computer.

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

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

Conventions

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

Abbreviations

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

Satellite A500/A500D

Icons

Icons identify ports, dials, and other parts of your computer. The indicator panel also uses icons to iden ti fy th e co mponents it is providing inform ation 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.

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Satellite A500/A500D

Key operation

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

ABC

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 typeface you see to the left.

Display

ABC

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

Messages

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

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

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

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

Terminology

This term is defined in this document as follows:

Start

xx User’s Manual

The word “Start” refers to the “ ” button in Windows 7.

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.

Provide adequate ventilation

■ Always make sure your computer and AC adaptor have adequate

ventilation and are protected from overheating when the power is turned on or when an AC adaptor is connected to a power outlet (even if your computer is in Sleep Mode). In this condition, observe the following:

■ Never cover your computer or AC adaptor with any object.

■ Never place your computer or AC adaptor near a heat source, such

as anelectric blanket or heater.

■ Never cover or block the air vents including those located at the

base of the computer.

■ Always operate your computer on a hard flat surface. Using your

computer on a carpet or other soft material can block the vents.

■ Always provide sufficient space around the computer.

■ Overheating your computer or AC adaptor could cause system failure,

computer or AC adaptor damage or a fire, possibly resulting in serious injury.

Satellite A500/A500D

User’s Manual xxi

Satellite A500/A500D

Creating a computer-friendly environment

Place the computer on a flat surface that is large enough for the computer and any other items you are using, such as a printer.

Leave enough space around the computer and other equipment to provide adequate ventilation. Otherwise, they may overheat.

To keep your computer in prime operating condition, protect your work area from:

■ Dust, moisture, and direct sunlight.

■ Equipment that generates a strong electromagnetic field, such as

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

■ Rapid changes in temperature or humidity and sources of temperature

change such as air conditioner vents or heaters.

■ Extreme heat, cold, or humidity.

■ Liquids and corrosive chemicals.

Stress injur y

Carefully read the Instruction Manual for Safety and Comfort. It contains information on the prevention of stress injuries to your hands and wrists that can be caused by extensive keyboard use.

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, for example if you rest the computer on your lap or if you keep your hands on the palm rest, your skin might suffer a low-heat injury.

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

the metal plate supporting the various interface ports as this can become hot.

■ The surface of the AC adaptor can become hot when in use but this

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

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

material could become damaged.

Pressure or impact dama ge

Do not apply heavy pressure to the computer or subject it to any form of strong impact as this can damage the computer’s components or otherwise cause it to malfunction.

xxii User’s Manual

ExpressCard overheating

Some ExpressCards can become hot during prolonged use which may result in errors or instability in the operation of the device in question. In addition, you should also be careful when you remove an ExpressCard that has been used for a long time.

Mobile phones

Please be aware that the use of mobile phones can interfere with the audio system. The operation of the computer will not be impaired in any way, but it is recommended that a minimum distance of 30cm is maintained between the computer and a mobile phone that is in use.

Instruction Manual for Safety and Comfort

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

Satellite A500/A500D

User’s Manual xxiii

Satellite A500/A500D

xxiv User’s Manual

Introduction

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

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

Equipment checklist

Carefully unpack your computer, taking care to save the box and packaging materials for future use.

Hardware

Check to make sure you have all the following items:

■ TOSHIBA Satellite A500/A500D

Portable Personal Computer

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

■ Battery pack (is pre-installed in some computer)

■ Remote controller (is included with some models)

■ Two AA manganese batteries (for remote controller)

■ CR2016 battery (for Slim size remote controller)

Satellite A500/A500D

Chapter 1

■ Some models are included with Slim size remote controller.

Documentation

■ TOSHIBA Satellite A500/A500D User’s Manual

■ TOSHIBA Satellite A500/A500D Quickstart

■ Instruction Manual for Safety and Comfort (included in User’s Manual)

■ Warranty Information

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

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Satellite A500/A500D

Software

The following Windows operating system and utility software are pre-installed.

■ Windows 7

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

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

■ Display Drivers for Windows

■ TOSHIBA Value Added Package

■ TOSHIBA Hardware Setup

■ TOSHIBA Supervisor Password

■ Corel DVD MovieFactory

■ WinDVD BD for TOSHIBA (Provided with some models)

■ Fingerprint Utility (Can be used only for Fingerprint Utility models)

■ LAN Driver

■ Pointing Device Driver

■ Sound Driver for Windows

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

■ Windows Mobility Center

■ TOSHIBA Disc Creator

■ TOSHIBA Recovery Media Creator

■ TOSHIBA ConfigFree™

■ TOSHIBA Assist

■ TOSHIBA DVD PLAYER

■ TOSHIBA Face Recognition (Can be used only on Web Camera

■ TOSHIBA Web Camera Application (Can be used only on Web Camera

■ TOSHIBA PC Health Monitor

■ TOSHIBA USB Sleep-and-Charge Utility

■ TOSHIBA eco Utility

■ TOSHIBA Bulletin Board

■ TOSHIBA ReelTime

■ TOSHIBA Service S tation

models)

(Provided with some models)

1-2 User’s Manual

Features

Satellite A500/A500D

This computer incorporates the following features and benefits:

Processor

Built-in Your computer is equipped with one processor

and processor type varies depending on model. To check which type of processor is included in your model, open the TOSHIBA PC Diagnostic Tool Utility by clicking Start -> All programs ->

TOSHIBA -> Utilities -> TOSHIBA PC diagnostic Tool.

Chipset Mobile Intel

Mobile Intel Mobile Intel

GM45 Express Chipset

GL40 Express Chipset

HM55 Express Chipset or AMD M780G Chipset

AMD M780V Chipset AMD M880G Chipset AMD M860G Chipset AMD M870 Chipset

Memory

Slots PC3-8500/PC2-6400 1 GB, 2 GB or 4 GB

memory modules can be installed in the two memory slots of below models:

Mobile Intel Mobile Intel Mobile Intel

GM45 Express Chipset model/

GL40 Express Chipset/

HM55 Express Chipset AMD M780G Chipset AMD M780V Chipset AMD M880G Chipset model/ AMD M860G Chipset model/ AMD M870 Chipset model.

Maximum system memory size and speed are depending on the model you purchased.

■ Maximum size of memory can be installed on Mobile Intel® GL40

Express Chipset models is 4GB.

■ PC2-6400 memory module works as PC2-5300 speed on

AMD Athlon/Sempron™ Processor.

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Satellite A500/A500D

Video RAM Video RAM depends on the model you

purchased. Mobile Intel

GM45/GL40/HM55 Express Chipset model: Video RAM capacity shares with main memory, and the proportion depends on Dynamic Video Memory Technology.

Mobile Intel® GM45 Express Chipset model in graphic chip by NVIDIA

GeForce® G 210M:

External 512MB Mobile Intel

graphic chip by NVIDIA

GM45 Express Chipset model in

GeForce® GT 230M:

External 1GB Mobile Intel

graphic chip by NVIDIA

HM55 Express Chipset model in

GeForce® 310M:

External 512MB Mobile Intel

graphic chip by NVIDIA

HM55 Express Chipset model in

GeForce® GT 330M:

External 1GB AMD M780G Chipset model/

AMD M780V Chipset model/ AMD M880G Chipset model/ AMD M860G Chipset model: Video RAM capacity shares with main memory, and the proportion depends on ATI HyperMemory™.

AMD M780G Chipset model/ AMD M880G Chipset model/ AMD M870 Chipset model in graphic chip by A TI Mobility Radeon™ HD 4570: Externa l 512MB

AMD M780G Chipset model/ AMD M880G Chipset model/ AMD M870 Chipset model in graphic chip by ATI Mobility Radeon™ HD 4650: External 1GB

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Satellite A500/A500D

For users of a 32-bit version of Windows: If your computer is configured with two 2 GB memory modules or more, the memory might be displayed as approximately 3 GB only (depending on the computer’s hardware specifications).

This is correct because the operating system usually displays the available memory instead of the physical memory (RAM) built into the computer.

Various system components (like the video adapter’s GPU and PCI devices like Wireless LAN, etc.) requi re th ei r ow n memo ry space. Since a 32-bit operating system cannot address more than 4 GB of memory these system resources overlap the physical memory. It is a technical limitation that the overlapped memory is not available to the operating system.

Even though some tools might display the actual physical memory built into your computer, the memory available to the operating system will still be approximately 3 GB only.

Disks

Hard disk drive or Solid state drive

This computer is equipped with the following types of Solid State Drive(SSD),hard disk drive(HDD).The capacity of each hard disk drive model is different.

■ SSD

■ 64GB

■ 128GB

■ 256GB

■ HDD

■ 120GB

■ 160GB

■ 200GB

■ 250GB

■ 320GB

■ 500GB

■ 640GB

Please note that part of the hard disk drives overall capacity is reserved as administration space.

Additional hard disk drive sizes may be introduced.

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Satellite A500/A500D

Optical disc drive

DVD Super Multi drive

The drive reads DVD-ROM’s at a maximum 8x speed and CD-ROM’s at a maximum 24x speed, and writes CD-R’s at up to 24x speed, CD-RW’s at up to 24x speed, DVD-RW’s at up to 6x speed, DVD-R’s, DVD+R’s and DVD+RW’s at up to 8x speed, DVD-R (Dual layer) at up to 6x speed, DVD+R (Double Layer) at up to 6x speed and DVD-RAM at up to 5x speed, and supports the following formats:

■ CD-R

■ CD-RW

■ DVD-ROM

■ DVD-Video

■ CD-DA

■ CD-Text

■ Photo CD™ (single/multi-session)

■ CD-ROM Mode 1, Mode 2

■ CD-ROM XA Mode 2 (Form1, Form2)

■ Enhanced CD (CD-EXTRA)

■ Addressing Method 2

■ DVD-R

■ DVD-R (Dual Layer)

■ DVD-RW

■ DVD+R

■ DVD+R (Double Layer)

■ DVD+RW

■ DVD-RAM

Some models are equipped with a full-size DVD Super Multi drive module that lets you run CD’s or DVD’s without using an adaptor.

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Satellite A500/A500D

BD Writer drive The drive reads BD-ROM’s at a maximum 6x

speed and DVD-ROM’s at a maximum 8x speed and CD-ROM’s at a maximum 24x speed, and writes CD-R’s at up to 24x speed, CD-RW’s at up to 16x speed, DVD-RW’s at up to 6x speed, DVD-R’s, DVD+R’s and DVD+RW’s at up to 8x speed, DVD-R (Dual layer) at up to 4x speed, DVD+R (Double Layer) at up to 4x speed, DVD-RAM’s at up to 5x speed, BD-R’s at up to 6x speed, BD-R (DL) at 4x speed, BD-RE’s at up to 2x speed and BD-RE (DL) at up to 2x speed, and supports the following formats:

■ CD-DA

■ CD-ROM

■ CD-ROM XA

■ PhotoCD (multisession)

■ Video CD

■ CD-Extra (CD+)

■ CD-Text

■ Hybrid SACD

■ DVD-Video

■ DVD-ROM

■ DVD-R

■ DVD-RW

■ DVD-R (DL)

■ DVD+R

■ DVD+RW

■ DVD+R (DL)

■ DVD-RAM

■ BD-ROM

■ BD-R

■ BD-RE

■ BD-R(DL)

■ BD-RE(DL)

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Satellite A500/A500D

Keyboard

Built-in The internal keyboard provides dedicated cursor

Pointing Device

control overlay keys, and Keys. The keyboard is compatible with the IBM

keyboard. Refer to Chapter 5, The Keyboard, for details.

enhanced

Built-in Touch Pad The integrated Touch Pad and control buttons in

the palm rest allow control of the on-screen pointer and support functions such as the scrolling of windows.

Power

Battery pack The computer is powered by one rechargeable

RTC battery The internal RTC battery backs up the Real Time

AC adaptor The AC adaptor provides power to the system

lithium-ion battery pack.

Clock (RTC) and calendar.

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

As the AC adaptor is universal, it can receive a range of AC voltages from 100 to 240 volts, however you should note that the output current varies among different models. Using the wrong adaptor can damage your computer. Refer to the

AC adaptor section in Chapter 2, The Grand Tour.

Ports

External monitor This port provides 15-pin, analog VGA port.This

port allows you to connect an external monitor to the computer. Some models include this feature.

Universal Serial Bus (USB 2.0)

1-8 User’s Manual

The computer supports multiple Universal Serial Bus ports that comply with the USB 2.0 standard.

The ports with the ( ) has a Using the

TOSHIBA USB Sleep-and-Charge function.

One of the USB ports has an eSATA (External Serial ATA) function.

Slots

Satellite A500/A500D

ExpressCard™ The internal ExpressCard slot is a Universal slot.

This slot supports ExpressCard/54 and ExpressCard/34 modules.

Bridge media This slot lets you insert an SD™/SDHC™

memory card, miniSD™/microSD™ Card, Memory Stick

(PRO™/PRO Duo™), xD-Picture Card™ and MultiMediaCard™. Refer to Chapter 8, Optional Devices.

SIM card This slot (located underneath the battery pack)

allows you to transfer information from a standard 25mm Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card to your computer. The SIM card slot is only featured on some models.

Multimedia

Sound system The integrated sound system provides support

Web Camera Web Camera is a device that allows you to

HDMI out port HDMI out port can connect with Type A

for the computer’s internal speakers and microphone, also allowing an external microphone and headphones to be connected via the appropriate jacks.

record video or take photographs with your computer. You can use it for video chatting or video conferences using a communication tool such as Windows Live Messenger. Camera Assistant Software will help you to add various video effects to your video or photograph.

connector HDMI cable. HDMI cable can send video and audio signals.

In addition to this, it can send and receive control signals.

By connecting a TV which supports HDMI Control to this port, the remote control for the connected TV can be used to operate some of the computer functions.

Refer to the REGZA Link (PC Control) section in Chapter 8, Optional Devices, for more details.

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Satellite A500/A500D

Headphone (S/PDIF) jack

This jack lets you connect digital speakers or a stereo headphone (16 ohm minimum). When you connect a digital speaker or headphones, the internal speaker is automatically disabled. This jack can be used also as S/PDIF jack and enables connection of optical digital correspondence apparatus.

Microphone jack A 3.5mm mini microphone jack enables

connection of a three-conductor mini jack for stereo microphone input, and connection of a stereo device for audio input.

TV Tuner TV Tuner enables watching and recording TV

programs. Some models are equipped with the TV Tuner.

Infrared receiver window

This is a sensor window that receives signals from the remote controller which is provided with your computer.

Models which do not include a remote controller are not equipped with an infrared receiver so the computer cannot be operated with a remote controller.

Full size and Slim size remote controller

Use this device to navigate when playing CDs/DVDs/BDs. The slim size remote controller is stored within the ExpressCard slot (Provided with some models).

Communications

Modem Some models are equipped with the integrated

modem. The integrated modem provides capability for data and fax communications that support the V.90 (V.92) standards and includes a modem jack for connection to the telephone line. Please note that both the V.90 and V.92 standards are only supported in the USA, Canada, Germany, UK and France. Only the V.90 standard is supported in other regions. You should also be aware that the speed of data and fax transfer will depend on the analog telephone line conditions. The integrated model is only installed as a standard device in some markets.

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Satellite A500/A500D

LAN The computer has built-in support for Ethernet

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

It is pre-installed as a standard device in some markets.

Bluetooth™ Some computers in this series have Bluetooth

wireless communication function which eliminates the need for cables between electronic devices such as computers and printers and mobile phones. When it is enab led, Bluetooth provides the wireless personal area network environment which is safe and trustworthy, that is quick and easy.

Wireless LAN The computers in this series are equipped with a

Wireless LAN module that is compatible with other LAN systems based on Direct Sequence Spread S pectrum/Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing radio technology that complies with the IEEE 802.11 Standard.

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

which wireless LAN can reach may vary depending on surrounding electromagnetic environment, obstacles, access point design and configuration, and client design and software/hardware configurations. The Transmit Rate (at X Mbit/s) is the theoretical maximum speed under the IEEE802.11 (a/b/g/n) standards. The actual transmission speed will be lower than the theoretical maximum speed.

Wireless communication

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

switch

Security

Security lock slot Connects a security lock to anchor the computer

to a desk or other large object.

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Satellite A500/A500D

Software

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

Operating system Windows 7 is available. Refer to the preinstalled

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.

Access each function using the following procedures. *1 To access the Power Options, click Start -> Control Panel -> System

and Security -> Power Options.

Hot keys Hot keys are specific key combinations that let

Display automatic power off

HDD automatic power off

System automatic Sleep/Hibernation

Mode

to make your computer more convenient to use. Refer to the Utilities and applications 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.

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

This feature automatically cuts off power to the computer’s display panel when there is no keyboard input for a specified time, with power being restored the next time a key is pressed. This can be specified in the Power Opti ons.

This feature automatically cuts off power to the hard disk drive when it is not accessed for a specified time, with power being restored when the hard disk drive is next accessed. This can be specified in the Power Options.

This feature automatically shuts down the system into either Sleep Mode or Hibernation Mode when there is no input or hardware access for a specified time. This can be specified in the Power Options.

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Satellite A500/A500D

Power on password Two levels of password security, supervisor and

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

Instant security A specific hot key function automatically locks the

system providing data security.

Intelligent power supply

A microprocessor in the computer’s intelligent power supply detects the battery’s charge, automatically calculates the remaining battery capacity and protects electronic components from abnormal conditions such as a voltage overload from the AC adaptor. This can be specified in the Power Options.

Battery save mode

This feature lets you configure the computer in order to save battery power. This can be specified in the Power Options.

Low battery automatic Hibernation Mode

When battery power is exhausted to the point that computer operation cannot be continued, the

system automatically enters Hibernation Mode and shuts itself down. This can be specified in the Power Options.

Heat dispersal

T o protect against overheating, the processor has an internal temperature sensor so that, if the computer’s internal temperature rises to a certain level, the cooling fan is turned on or the processing speed is lowered. This can be specified in the Power Options.

If the processor’s temperature reaches an unacceptably high level with either setting, the computer will automatically shut down to prevent any damage - in this instance any unsaved data in memory will be lost.

TOSHIBA HDD Protection

This feature uses the acceleration sen s o r bu il t in the computer to detect vibration and shocks, and automatically moves the hard disk drive’s read/write head to a safe position in order to reduce the risk of damage that could be caused by head-to-disk contact. Refer to the Using the

Hard Disk Drive (HDD) Protection section in

Chapter 4, Operating Basics for details.

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

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Satellite A500/A500D

Hibernation Mode This feature lets you turn off the power to the

computer without exiting from your software. The contents of main memory are automatically saved to the hard disk drive so that when you next turn the power on again, you can continue working right where you left off. Refer to the

Turning off the power section in Chapter 3, Getting Started, for more details.

Sleep Mode If you have to interrupt your work, you can use

this feature to allow you to turn off power to the computer without exiting from your software. Data is maintained in the computer’s main memory so that when you next turn on the power, you can continue working right where you left off.

Optical Drive Auto Lock

This function automatically locks the optical disc drive eject button if the computer detects any vibration or other shocks while running on the battery. This function prevents the disc tray from opening even if the eject button is pushed unexpectedly. For information on using this feature, please refer to the Optical Drive Auto

Lock section in Chapter 4, Operating Basics.

TOSHIBA Value Added Package

This section describes the TOSHIBA Component features pre-installed on the computer.

TOSHIBA Button Support

TOSHIBA Zooming Utility

TOSHIBA PC Diagnostic Tool

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This utility controls the following computer button functions.

■ Eco button

■ CD/DVD/BDs button

■ Mute button

The starting application from the button can be changed.

This utility allows you to enlarge or reduce the icon size on the Windows Desktop, or the zoom factor associated with specific supported applications.

The TOSHIBA PC Diagnostic Tool will display basic system configuration information and allow the functionality of some of the computer’s built-in hardware devices to be tested.

Satellite A500/A500D

TOSHIBA Flash Cards

TOSHIBA Accessibility

Utilities and Applications

This section describes the pre-installed utilities that come with the computer and details how to start them. For further information on their operation, please refer to each utility’s online manual, help files or README.TXT file.

Fingerprint Utility Some models of this computer series support a

The TOSHIBA Flash Cards provide a quick wa y to modify selected system functions and to launch applications.

■ Hot key function

■ TOSHIBA utility launcher function

The TOSHIBA Accessibility utility provides support to movement impaired users when they need to use the TOSHIBA Hot-key functions. In use, the utility allows you to make the FN key “sticky”, that is you can press it once, release it, and they press one of the “F” keys in order to access its specific function. When set, the FN key will remain active until another key is pressed.

fingerprint utility, which is installed for the purpose of enrolling and recognizing fingerprints which can then be linked to a username and password in order to remove the need to input these details from the keyboard. Just by swiping an enrolled finger against the fingerprint sensor, the following functions will be enabled:

■ Log on to Windows and access a security

enabled homepage through Internet Explorer.

■ Files and folders can be encrypted/decrypted

and third party access to them is prevented.

■ Disable the password-protected screen-saver

when returning from a power-saving mode such as Sleep Mode.

■ Authentication of the User Password

(and, if applicable, the HDD(Hard Disk Drive) Password) when booting up the computer (Pre-OS Authentication).

■ Single-Swipe Sign-on feature

■ Fingerprint security cannot be used in models that do not have a

fingerprint module installed.

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Satellite A500/A500D

Bluetooth Stack for Windows by Toshiba

This software enables communication between the computer and external Bluetooth devices such as printers and mobile phones.

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

TOSHIBA Assist TOSHIBA Assist is a graphical user interface that

provides access to specific tools, utilities and applications that make the use and configuration of the computer easier.

HW Setup utility To start the utility, click the Windows Start button,

point to All Programs, click TOSHIBA, click

Utilities, and select HWSetup icon.

TOSHIBA eco Utility TOSHIBA eco Utility helps you monitor your

power savings by showing approximate real time power consumption. Furthermore, it shows approximate accumulated power consumption and approximate accumulated power savings when using eco mode daily, weekly , and monthly. You can track power savings by using eco mode continuously.

TOSHIBA ConfigFree TOSHIBA ConfigFree is a suite of utilities that

improve the ease and control of communication devices and network connections, help in the identification of communication problems and allow the creation of profiles if you need to switch between different locations and communication networks. To access this utility, click Start ->

All Programs -> TOSHIBA -> ConfigFree.

TOSHIBA Disc Creator

You can create CD’s and DVD’s in a number of formats including audio CD’s that can be played on a standard CD player, and data CD’s/DVD’s which can store copies of the files and folders on your computer’s hard disk drive. This software can be used on models with a DVD Super Multi drive.

To start this utility, click Start -> All Programs ->

TOSHIBA -> CD&DVD Applications -> Disc Creator.

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Satellite A500/A500D

TOSHIBA Face Recognition

TOSHIBA USB Sleep-and-Charge Utility

TOSHIBA HDD/SSD Alert

Corel DVD MovieFactory for TOSHIBA

WinDVD BD for TOSHIBA

Windows Mobility Center

TOSHIBA Face Recognition uses a face verification library to verify the face data of users when they log in to Windows. If the verification is successful, the user will be logged into Windows automatically. The user can thus avoid having to enter a password or the like, which makes the login process easier.

This utility is able to either enable or disable the USB Sleep-and-Charge function.

This utility shows the positions of USB ports that support the USB Sleep-and-Charge function and displays the battery’s remaining capacity.

To start this utility, click Start -> All Programs ->

TOSHIBA -> Utilities -> USB Sleep and Charge; or Control Panel -> Hardware and Sound -> TOSHIBA USB Sleep and Charge.

The TOSHIBA HDD/SSD Alert includes wizard functions to monitor the Disk Drive operating status and execute system backup.

Corel DVD MovieFactory for TOSHIBA allows users to instantly create DVD/BD video or slideshow discs via a user-friendly wizard interface with specific task orie nt e d fe atures. (Provided with some models)

This software is provided for playback of Blu-ray Disc. It has an on-screen interface and functions. Click Start -> All Programs -> InterVideo WinDVD -> WinDVD BD for TOSHIBA. (Provided with some models)

This section describes the Windows Mobility Center. Mobility Center is a utility for accessing several mobile PC settings quickly in one window. A default maximum of eight tiles are provided by the operating system, and the additional two tiles are added to your Mobility Center.

■ Lock Computer:

This can be used to lock your computer without turning it off. This has the same function as the Lock button at the bottom of the right pane in the start menu.

■ TOSHIBA Assist:

This can be used to open TOSHIBA Assist if it is already installed in your computer.

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Satellite A500/A500D

Options

TOSHIBA DVD PLAYER

This software is provided for playback of DVD Video.It has an on-screen interface and functions. Click Start -> All Programs -> TOSHIBA DVD PLAYER.

Frame dropping, audio skipping or out of synch audio and video may occur during playback of some DVD Video and Blu-ray Disc titles. Make sure to connect the computer’s AC adaptor when playing a DVD Video. Power-saving features may interfere with smooth playback.

You can add a number of options to make your computer even more powerful and convenient to use. The following options are available:

Memory expansion A 1GB, 2GB or 4GB memory module

PC3-8500/PC2-6400 can easily be installed in the computer.

Battery Pack An additional battery pack can be purchased for

use as either a spare or replacement. Please refer to Chapter 6, Power and Power-up Modes, for futher information.

AC Adaptor If you frequently use your computer at more than

one site, it may be convenient to purchase an additional AC adaptor to be kept at each site in order to remove the need to always carry the adaptor with you.

USB FDD The USB floppy diskette drive accommodates

either a 1.44MB or 720KB floppy diskette through connection to one of the computer’s USB ports. In use, please be aware that, while you cannot format 720KB floppy diskettes under Windows

7, you are able to read and write to diskettes that have already been formatted.

Security lock A slot is available to attach a security cable to the

computer to deter theft.

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The Grand Tour

This chapter identifies the various components of your computer. Become familiar with each component before you operate the computer.

Front with the display closed

The following figure shows the computer’s front with its display panel in the closed position.

Satellite A500/A500D

Chapter 2

1. Bridge Media Slot

1 2

Bridge media slot

Keep foreign metal objects, such as screws, staples and paper clips, out of the Bridge media slot. Foreign metal objects can create a short circuit, which can cause damage and fire, possibly resulting in serious injury.

If you reformat an SD/SDHC memory card, be sure to reformat it with a device such as digital camera or digital audio player that uses the SD/SDHC memory cards, not with the format command provided within Windows.

Infrared receiver window

User’s Manual 2-1

2. Infrared receiver window

3. Wireless communication switch

Figure 2-1 Front of the computer with display closed

This slot lets you insert an SD™/SDHC™ memory card, miniSD™/microSD™ Card, Memory Stick® (PRO™/PRO Duo™), xD-Picture Card™ and MultiMediaCard™. Refer to Chapter 8,

Optional Devices.

This is a sensor window that receives signals from the remote control. (Provided with some models)

Satellite A500/A500D

Left side

Wireless communication switch

■ Turn Wi-Fi

, Wireless USB and Bluetooth functionalities off when near

Slide this switch to the right to turn on Wireless LAN and Bluetooth functions. Slide it to the left to turn off the functions.

a person who may have a cardiac pacemaker implant or other medical electric device. Radio waves may affect pacemaker or medical device operation, possibly resulting in serious injury. Follow the instruction of your medical device when using any Wi-Fi or Bluetooth functionality.

■ Always turn off Wi-Fi

, Wireless USB and Bluetooth function a l it y if th e computer is near automatic control equipment or appliances such as automatic doors or fire detectors. Radio waves can cause malfunction of such equipment, possibly resulting in serious injury.

■ Do not use the Wi-Fi

, Wireless USB and Bluetooth functionalities near a microwave oven or in areas subject to radio interference or magnetic fields. Interference from a microwave oven or other source can disrupt Wi-Fi or Bluetooth operation.

The following figure shows the computer’s left side.

1 2 3 4 5 7 8 9

1. Universal serial bus (USB 2.0) port

2. Cooling vents

*3. External monitor port

4. LAN jack

*5. HDMI out port

6. Express Card slot

7. eSATA/USB combo port

8. Headphone (S/PDIF) jack

9. Microphone jack

* Depending on the model you purchased.

Figure 2-2 The left side of the computer

Universal Serial Bus (USB 2.0) port

The Universal Serial Bus port, which complies with the USB 2.0 standard, is provided on the left hand side of the computer.

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Satellite A500/A500D

Keep foreign metal objects, such as screws, staples and paper clips, out of the USB connectors. Foreign metal objects can create a short circuit, which can cause damage and fire, possibly resulting in serious injury.

Please note that it is not possible to confirm the operation of all functions of all USB devices that are available. In view of this it may be noted that some functions associated with a specific device might not operate properly.

Cooling vents The cooling vents help keep the processor from

overheating.

Do not block the cooling vents. Keep foreign metal objects, such as screws, staples and paper clips, out of the cooling vents. Foreign metal objects can create a short circuit, which can cause damage and fire, possibly resulting in serious injury.

External monitor port

This port allows you to connect an external monitor to the computer.

LAN jack This jack lets you connect to a LAN. The adaptor

has built-in support for Ethernet LAN (10 megabits per second, 10BASE-T), Fast Ethernet LAN (100 megabits per second, 100BASE-TX) and Gigabit Ethernet LAN (1000 megabits per second, 1000BASE-T). The LAN has two indicators. Refer to Chapter 4,

Operating Basics, for details.

■ Do not connect any cable other than a LAN cable to the LAN jack.

It could cause damage or malfunction.

■ Do not connect the LAN cable to a power supply. It could cause

damage or malfunction.

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Satellite A500/A500D

HDMI out port HDMI out port can connect with Type A

connector HDMI cable.One HDMI cable can send video and audio signals. In addition to this, it can send and receive control signals.

By connecting a TV which supports HDMI Control to this port, the remote control for the connected TV can be used to operate some of the computer functions.Refer to the REGZA Link section in Chapter 8, Optional Devices, for more details.

ExpressCard slot This slot allows you to install a single

ExpressCard device. A Toshiba slim size remote controller can be

inserted in the ExpressCard slot. Please note only Some models are equipped with a Slim size remote controller.

Keep foreign metal objects, such as screws, staples and paper clips, out of the ExpressCard slot. Foreign metal objects can create a short circuit, which can cause damage and fire, possibly resulting in serious injury.

eSATA/USB combo port

This Universal Serial Bus port, which complies to the USB 2.0 standard, is provided on the left h and

side of the computer . The port s with the icon ( ) has USB Sleep-and-Charge function. This port has eSA TA (External Serial ATA) function.

Headphone (S/PDIF) jack

A 3.5 mm mini headphone jack that lets you connect digital speakers or a stereo headphone (16 ohm minimum). When you connect digital speakers or headphones, the internal speaker is automatically disabled.

This jack can be used also as S/PDIF jack and enables connection of an optical digital correspondence apparatus.

Microphone jack A 3.5 mm mini microphone jack enables

connection of a three-conductor mini jack for monaural microphone input, and connection of a stereo device for audio input.

2-4 User’s Manual

Right side

Satellite A500/A500D

The following figure shows the computer’s right side.

1 2 3 4 5

Figure 2-3 The right side of the computer

Optical disc drive (tray)

*1. Optical disc drive (tray)

2. Universal Serial Bus (USB 2.0) port

*3. Modem jack

4. DC IN 19V jack

5. Security lock slot *6. TV Tuner jack *7. Optical Disc drive (slot)

*Depending on the model you purchased.

Some computers are configured with a tray version of the DVD Super Multi drive or Blu-ray Disc drive. The full-size drive provides high-performance execution of CD/DVD/BD-ROM-based programs.

Universal Serial Bus (USB 2.0) port

Two Universal Serial Bus ports, which comply with the USB 2.0 standard, are provided on the right side of the computer.

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Satellite A500/A500D

Modem jack The modem jack allows you use to attach a

■ Connection to any communication line other than an analog phone line

■ Avoid using your computer modem with the telephone cable connected

DC IN 19V jack The AC adaptor connects to this jack in order to

Security lock slot A security cable can be attached to this slot and

TV tuner jack TV Tuner enables watching and recording TV

modular cable in order to connect the internal modem directly to a telephone line.

Some models are equipped with a built-in modem.

could cause a computer system failure.

■ Connect the built-in modem only to ordinary analog phone lines.

■ Never connect the built-in modem to a digital line (ISDN).

■ Never connect the built-in modem to the digital connector on a

public telephone or to a digital private branch exchange (PBX).

■ Never connect the built-in modem to a key telephone system for

residences or offics.

during an electrical storm. There may be a remote risk of electric shock from lightning.

power the computer and charge its internal batteries. Please note that you should only use the model of AC adaptor supplied with the computer at the time of purchase - using the wrong AC adaptor can cause damage to the computer.

then connected to a desk or other large object in order to deter theft of the computer.

programs. Some models are equipped with the TV Tuner.

Optical disc drive (slot)

Some models are equipped with a slot version of the DVD Super Multi drive. The full-size drive provides high-performance execution of CD/DVD-ROM-based programs.

Use only round standard (12cm) discs with this slot-loading optical drive. Any other size or shape disc may not be able to be removed from the slot and may damage the system as well as the disc.

2-6 User’s Manual

Underside

The following figure shows the underside of the computer. You should ensure that the display is closed before the computer is turned over to avoid causing any damage.

Satellite A500/A500D

3 2

1. Battery safety lock

2. Battery release latch

3. Battery

4. Cooling vent

5. Memory module slots

6. Hard Disk Drive

Figure 2-4 The underside of the computer

Battery safety lock Slide this latch into its “Unlock” position in order

to release the battery pack and prepare for

removal.

Battery release latch Slide and hold this latch into its “Unlock” position

in order to release the battery pack. For more detailed information on removing the

battery pack please refer to Chapter 6, Power

and Power-up Modes.

Battery pack The battery pack provides power to the computer

when the AC adaptor is not connected. For more detailed information on the use and operation of the battery pack please refer to Chapter 6, Power

and Power-up Modes.

Cooling vents The computer’s cooling vents help keep the

processor from overheating.

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Satellite A500/A500D

Hard disk drive The hard disk drive contains the main storage for

the computer. Disk size varies depending on the model purchased.

Memory module slots

The memory module slots are located here. The memory module slots allow for the installation, replacement and removal of additional memory modules. Please refer to the Additional memory

module section in Chapter 8, Optional Devices

for more information.

2-8 User’s Manual

Front with the display open

This section shows the computer with the display panel open. In order to open the display, lift the display panel up and position it at a comfortable viewing angle for you.

14 13 12 11

Satellite A500/A500D

2 1

4 5

1. Power button

2. Stereo speakers

3. Front operational panel

4. Touch Pad Enable/Disable button

5. Touch Pad

6. Touch Pad control buttons

7. Fingerprint Sensor

8. System Indicators

9. Display hinge

10. Display screen *11. Microphone *12. Web Camera *13. Web Camera LED

14. Wireless LAN antenna

15. LCD Sensor switch

*Depending on the model you purchased.

9 2

Figure 2-5 The front of the computer model with the display open

Power button Press this button to turn the computer’s power on

and off.

Stereo speakers The speakers emit sound generated by your

software as well as audio alarms, such as low battery condition, generated by the system. Some models are equipped with Harman/Kardon speakers.

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Satellite A500/A500D

Keep foreign objects out of the speakers. Never allow metal objects, such as screws, staples and paper clips, to enter the computer or keyboard. Foreign metal objects can create a short circuit, which can cause computer damage and fire, possibly resulting in serious injury.

Front operation panel (eight panels)

Eight panels are available for use: CD/DVD/BD, Eco, Play/Pause, Previous, Next,

Mute, Volume DOWN, Volume UP. These panels allow you to manage Audio/Video,

run applications and access utilities.

Touchpad Enable/ Disable button

The indicator light below this button will glow white when the touchpad is in use. Please refer to Chapter 5, The Keyboard for more information.

Touch Pad The Touch Pad mouse control device located in

the center of the palm rest is used to control the movement of the on-screen pointer. For more information, please refer to the Using the Touch

Pad section in Chapter 4, Operating Basics.

Touch Pad control buttons

The control buttons located below the T ouch Pad allow you to select menu items or manipulate text and graphics as designated by the on-screen pointer.

Fingerprint Sensor This sensor enables you to enroll and recognize

a fingerprint. For detailed information on Fingerprint Sensor, refer to Chapter 4, Using the

Fingerprint Sensor. Some models are equipped

with a Fingerprint Sensor.

System indicators These LED indicators allow you to monitor the

status of various computer functions and are described in more detail within the System

indicators section.

Display hinge The display hinge allows the display panel to be

position at a variety of easy-to-view angles.

Display screen Please be aware that, when the computer is

operating on the AC adaptor, the image displayed on the internal screen will be somewhat brighter than when it operates on battery power. This difference in brightness levels is intended to save power when operating on batteries. For more information on the computer’s display, please refer to the Display

Controller section in Appendix B.

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Satellite A500/A500D

Microphone A built-in microphone allows you to import and

record sounds for your application - please refer to the Sound system section in Chapter 4,

Operating Basics for more information. Some

models are equipped with a microphone.

Web Camera The Web Camera is a device that allows you to

The web camera also Enables the transmission of video and use of video chat via the internet using specialized applications.

The effective pixel count for this web camera is

0.3 million or 1.0 million (0.3M maximum photograph size: 640X480 pixels; 1.0M maximum photograph size: 1280X800 pixels).

Please remove the protective plastic-film before using the Web Camera.

Please refer to the Using the web camera section in Chapter 4, Operating Basics. Some models are equipped with a Web Camera.

Web Camera LED

The Web Camera LED glows when the Web Camera is operating.

Please remove the protective plastic-film before using the Web Camera.

LCD Sensor switch This switch senses when the display panel is

either closed or opened and activates the Panel Power Off/On feature as appropriate. For example, when you close the display panel the computer enters Hibernation Mode and shuts itself down and then, when you next open the display, the computer will automatically start up and return you to the application you were previously working on.

Yo u can specify within the Power Options. To access it, click Start -> Control Panel -> System and Security -> Power Options.

Do not put any magnetic objects close to this switch as they may cause the computer to automatically enter Hibernation Mode and shut down even if the Panel Power Off feature is disabled.

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Satellite A500/A500D

Function buttons

Several buttons are provided with some models.

Available for use: Eco, CD/DVD/BD, Play/Pause, Previous, Next, Mute, Volume Down, Volu me Up.

These buttons allow you to manage audio/video, run applications and access utilities. Refer to the Function buttons section in Chapter 4,

Operating Basics, for details.

Please handle your computer carefully to avoid scratching or damaging the surface.

Figure 2-6 Front operation panel

Eco button Press this button to launch the TOSHBIA eco

CD/DVD/BD button Press this button to launch an application

Play/Pause button Press this button to begin playing an audio CD, a

Previous button Press this button to advance to the previous

Next button Press this button to advance to the next track,

Mute button Press this button to turn on/off the sound.

Vo lume UP and DOWN control buttons

Utility. This button changes “On” and “Off” of eco Mode. When eco Mode is “On”, the icon turns green. When eco Mode is “Off”, the icon LED turns off.

program that allows Windows Media Player / TOSHIBA DVD PLAYER/WinDVD BD for TOSHIBA.

DVD movie or digital audio files. This button also acts as a Pause button.

track, chapter or data.

chapter or data.

Use these buttons to adjust the volume of the internal stereo speakers and optional external stereo headphones (if connected). Press the Volume DOWN button to decrease the volume and the Volume UP button to increase the volume.

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System indicators

The LED system indicators for specific computer operations glow when those operations are in progress.

DC IN The DC IN indicator normally glows white when

Power The Power indicator normally glows white when

Battery The Battery indicator shows the condition of the

Satellite A500/A500D

Figure 2-7 System indicators

power is being correctly supplied from the AC power adaptor. However, If the output voltage from the adaptor is abnormal, or if the computer’s power supply malfunctions, this indicator will go out.

the computer is turned on. However, if you turn the computer off into Sleep Mode, this indicator will flash amber - approximately one second on, two seconds off - both while the system is shutting down and while it remains turned off.

battery’s charge - white indicates the battery is fully charged, amber indicates the battery is charging, and flashing amber indicates a low battery condition. Please refer to Chapter 6,

Power and Power-up Modes for more information

on this feature.

HDD/ODD/eSATA The HDD/ODD/eSATA indicator glows white

Bridge media slot The Bridge media slot indicator glows white

User’s Manual 2-13

whenever the computer is accessing the built-in hard disk drive or the other drives.

when the computer is accessing the Bridge media slot.

Satellite A500/A500D

Keyboard indicators

The following figures show the positions of the CAPS LOCK indicator and the Touchpad Enable/Disable button.

Figure 2-8 Keypad indicators

CAPS LOCK This indicator glows green when letter keys are

locked into their uppercase format.

Touchpad Enable/ Disable button

The touchpad indicator below this button glows white when the touchpad is activated. The indicator does not glow when the touchpad is disable (and a mouse or other device is used to navigate the computer)

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Optical disc drives

The computer is configured with a DVD Super Multi drive or BD writer or BD-Combo drive. A Serial ATA interface controller is used for 12cm (4.72") and 8cm (3.15") (Tray ODD) and 12cm (4.72") (Slot ODD) CD/DVD/BD operation. For further information on loading and unloading discs, please refer to the Writing CD/DVD/BD on DVD Super Multi drives or BD Writer

drives section in Chapter 4, Operating Basics.

Region codes for BD media

BD is manufactured according to the specifications of three marketing regions. When you purchase BD-Video, make sure it matches your player, otherwise it will not play properly.

Code Region

Satellite A500/A500D

A Canada, United States, Japan, Southeast Asia, East Asia,

B Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Middle East, Africa C China, India, Russia, Mongolia, Indian Subcontinent

Central America, South America

Region codes for DVD drives and media

DVD Super Multi drives and their associated media are manufactured according to the specifications of six marketing regions. When you purchase DVD-Video, make sure it matches your drive, otherwise it will not play properly.

Code Region

1 Canada, United States 2 Japan, Europe, South Africa, Middle East 3 South East Asia, East Asia 4 Australia, New Zealand, Pacific Islands, Central America,

5 Russia, Indian Subcontinent, Africa, North Korea, Mongolia 6 China

South America, Caribbean

Writab le discs

This section describes the types of writable CD/DVD/BD discs. Check the specifications of your drive to see the types of discs it can write. Use TOSHIBA Disc Creator to write compact discs. Please refer to Chapter 4,

Operating Basics for further information.

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Satellite A500/A500D

CDs

■ CD-R discs can be written only once. The recorded data cannot be

■ CD-RW discs including multi speed CD-RW discs, high-speed CD-RW

DVDs

■ DVD-R, DVD+R, DVD-R (Dual Layer) and DVD+R (Double Layer) discs

■ DVD-RW, DVD+RW and DVD-RAM discs can be recorded more than

Some types and formats of DVD-R (Dual Layer) and DVD+R (Double Layer) discs may be unreadable.

BDs

■ BD-R, BD-R(DL) discs can be written only once. The recorded

■ BD-RE, BD-RE(DL) discs can be recorded more than once.

BD-Writer drive

The full-size BD-Writer drive module lets you record data to writable CD/DVD/BD discs as well as run either 12 cm (4.72") or 8 cm (3.15") for Tray type CD/DVD/BDs without using an adaptor.

erased or changed. discs and ultra-speed CD-RW discs can be recorded more than once.

can be written only once. The recorded data cannot be erased or changed.

once.

data cannot be erased or changed.

The read speed is slower at the centre of a disc and faster at the outer edge.

BD-ROM read 6 speed (maximum) DVD ROM read 8 speed (maximum) CD-ROM read 24 speed (maximum) BD-R write 6 speed (maximum) BD-R(DL) write 4 speed (maximum) BD-RE write 2 speed (maximum) BD-RE(DL) write 2 speed (maximum) DVD-R write 8 speed (maximum) DVD-RW write 6 speed (maximum) DVD+R write 8 speed (maximum) DVD+RW write 8 speed (maximum) DVD-R DL write 4 speed (maximum) DVD+R DL write 4 speed (maximum) DVD-RAM write 5 speed (maximum) CD-R write 24 speed (maximum) CD-RW write 16 speed (maximum, Ultra-speed media)

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DVD Super Multi drive

The full-size DVD Super Multi drive module allows you to record data to recordable CD’s and DVD’s as well as run 12cm(4.72") and 8cm(3.15") (for Tray type) or 12cm (4.72") (for Slot type) CD’s and DVD’s without using an adaptor.

The speed is slower at the center of a disc and faster at the outer edge.

DVD ROM read 8 speed (maximum) CD-ROM read 24 speed (maximum) DVD-R write 8 speed (maximum) DVD-R DL write 6 speed (maximum) DVD-RW write 6 speed (maximum) DVD+R write 8 speed (maximum) DVD+R DL write 6 speed (maximum) DVD+RW write 8 speed (maximum) DVD-RAM write 5 speed (maximum) CD-R write 24 speed (maximum) CD-RW write 24 speed (maximum, Ultra-speed media)

Use only round standard (12cm) discs with this slot-loading optical drive. Any other size or shape disc may not be able to be removed from the slot and may damage the system as well as the disc.

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Satellite A500/A500D

Remote Controller

A remote controller, which is provided with some models, enables you to perform some functions of your computer from a distant location.

There are two different types of remote controllers:

■ Full size remote controller

■ Slim size remote controller

■ Some models are included with either a Full size remote controller or

Slim size remote controller.

■ Models which include the Slim size remote controller do not have a TV

tuner installed and so do not allow viewing of TV programs.

The following figure shows the buttons on the Remote Controller. Y ou can use your Remote Controller with Media Center to play CDs, DVDs,

BDs and videos, and view pictures. The Remote Controller helps you navigate through Media Center just as a cable TV remote control navigates cable TV options or controls the playback of a movie in a VCR or DVD player.

Using the Remote Controller, you can:

■ Navigate and control all Media Center windows.

■ Control the video display.

■ Place the computer in and out of Sleep Mode.

Refer to the Using the Remote Controller section in this chapter for information on how to use the Remote Controller as well as how to install and remove its batteries.

2-18 User’s Manual

Full Size Remote Con t roller

5 3

Satellite A500/A500D

2 1

26 24

1. Power

2. Access indicator

3. Record

4. Stop

5. Pause

6. Play

7. REW (Rewind)

8. FWD (Fast Forward)

9. Replay

10. Skip

11. Back

12. More Info

13. Arrows

8 6

12 17

18 22

14. OK

15. Volume Control

16. Channel/Page Control

17. Start

18. Mute

19. Recorded TV

20. Guide

21. Live TV

22. DVD Menu

23. Numbers

24. Clear

25. Enter

26. Teletext

Figure 2-9 Full Size Remote Controller

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Satellite A500/A500D

Power Starts or terminates the operating system.

Access indicator This indicator will glow while the Remote

Record Records the selected television program and

Stop Stops the media currently playing. Pause Pauses an audio or video track, and live or

Play Plays the selected media.

This button functions like the Power button of your computer. By default, the Sleep Mode is equivalent to the Power Off state of your computer. To change the setting, click Start, select Control panel -> System and Security -> Power Options. When pressing the Sleep button, the following three options are available: Do nothing, Sleep and Hibernation.

Controller is sending signals to the computer. Please note that this indicator will not light after the battery has been completely discharged.

stores it on your hand disk drive.

recorded TV programs.

REW (Rewind) Moves the media (video, DVD, music, and so

on) backwards.

FWD (Fast Forward) Moves the media (video, DVD, music, and so

on) forwards.

Replay Moves media backward (seven seconds for

videos and live TV, one music track or one DVD chapter at a time).

Skip Moves media forward (30 seconds for videos

and live TV, one music track or one DVD chapter).

Back Displays the previous window. More Info The button provides more details on a TV

program than is listed in the Guide.

Arrows Moves the cursor to navigate within Media

Center windows.

OK Selects the desired action or window option.

It acts like the ENTER Key. If watching TV in full screen mode, pressing OK switches back to the previous viewed channel. Press again to toggle back. It acts the same way as a Jump button on some TV remote controls.

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Volume + Increases the volume while watching TV,

viewing DVD’s or replaying CD’s.

Volume - Decreases the volume while watching TV,

viewing DVD’s or replaying CD’s.

Start Opens Media Center to the main window.

Channel/Page up (+) and down (-)

Changes the TV channel or moves a page up and down, depending on the available options.

Mute Turns your computer sound on/off.

Recorded TV Allows you to start recording of TV programs.

The Recorded TV feature of Media Center will be activated.

Guide Opens the Television Program Gu ide to display

available TV channels and programs to watch and record.

Live TV A shortcut to the full screen view. It also takes

you to the current point in a live TV program after pausing live TV.

DVD Menu Opens the main menu on a DVD movie, if

available.

Numbers Allows you to select a channel or chapter

number while watching TV, or CD/DVD/BD replay.

Numbers, letters or symbols can be entered. To select a channel or chapter number of two or

more digits, press the buttons sequentially. For example, press the “1” button and then the “0” button to select the number 10.

Clear Deletes entered numbers, letters or symbols. Enter The OK button on the Remote Controller has the

same functions.

Red, Green, Yellow and Blue buttons

It jumps to a registration link. These buttons are not provided with some

models.

Teletext Starts or terminates the Teletext mode.

This button is not provided with some models.

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Satellite A500/A500D

Slim Size Remote Controller

1 2 3

7 5

12 11

15 14

19 18

9 8

13 16

1. CD/DVD/BD

2. Brightness down

3. Brightness up

4. Power

5. Volume +

6. Volume -

7. DVD Menu

8. Arrows

9. OK

10. Illumination On/Off

11. Mute

12. Back

13. More Info

14. Start

15. REW (Rewind)

16. Play/Pause

17. FWD (Fast Forward)

18. Replay

19. Stop

20. Skip

Figure 2-10 Slim Size Remote Controller

CD/DVD/BD Pressing this button will launch an application program

that allows you to watch a DVD, a BD or listen to a CD. Pressing this button while the computer is on or in

Sleep Mode, will launch Media Center. My Music is started when a music CD is inserted in the optical disc drive and My Video is started when a DVD video is in the drive. If the application you wish to run is not selected as the active window when these buttons are pressed, please switch to the application manually. For example, by clicking the taskbar item for the application window you wish to make active.

Brightness down

Decreases the computer’s display panel brightness in individual steps.

Brightness up Increases the computer’s display panel brightness in

individual steps.

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Power Starts or terminates the operating system.

This button functions like the Power button of your computer. By default, the Sleep Mode is equivalent to the Power Off state of your computer. To change the setting, click Start, select Control panel -> System and Security -> Power Options. The following four options are available: Do nothing, Sleep, Hibernate and Shut down

Volume + Increases the volume while viewing DVD’s or replaying

CD’s.

Volume - Decreases the volume while viewing DVD’s or

replaying CD’s.

DVD Menu Opens the main menu on a DVD movie, if available.

Arrows Moves the cursor to navigate within Media Center

windows.

OK Selects the desired action or window option. It acts like

the ENTER Key.

Illumination On/Off

Pressing this button to switch the lighting of indicators (e.g. Front operation panel, power button, etc).

Mute Turns your computer sound on/off.

Back Displays the previous window.

More Info This button has the same function as the secondary

(right) mouse button. Use it to display more executable options.

Start Opens Media Center to the main window.

REW (Rewind) Moves the media (video, DVD, music, and so on)

backwards.

Play/Pause Plays the selected media. Pauses an audio or video

track.

FWD (Fast Forward)

Moves the media (video, DVD, music, and so on) forwards.

Replay Moves media backward (seven seconds for videos,

one music track or one DVD chapter at a time).

Stop Stops the media currently playing. Skip Moves media forward (30 seconds for videos, one

music track or one DVD chapter).

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Using the Remote Controller

Some computers include a remote control unit, which allows you to control some of your computer’s functions from a distant location.

■ The Remote Controller is designed specifically for this computer.

■ Some application programs may not support remote control functions.

Operational range of the Remote Controller

Point the Remote controller at your computer and press a button. The operational angle and distance are described below.

Distance Within 5 m from the infrared receiver window. Angle Within a 30 degree horizontal and 15 degree

vertical range of the infrared receiver window.

Figure 2-11 Operational range of the remote control

* The appearance of the provided Remote Controller may vary from model

to model.

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Even if the remote controller is within the effective range as described above, it may malfunction or not work correctly in the following cases.

■ When an obstacle stands between the infrared receiver window of your

computer and the Remote Controller.

■ When direct sunlight or strong fluorescent light strikes the infrared

receiver window.

■ When the infrared receiver window or the infrared emission part of the

Remote Controller is dirty.

■ When other computers which use an infrared remote controller are

used near to your computer.

■ When a low battery condition is present.

Installing/Removing batteries

Be sure to install the provided CR2016 type batteries before using the remote controller.

Store the battery for the remote control beyond the reach of children. If a child swallows a battery, this might result in choking. If it happens,

contact a doctor immediately.

Observe the following precautions when using the battery of the Remote Controller.

■ Do not use batteries other than those specified.

■ Ensure that you insert the batteries with their polarities correctly

aligned (+ or -).

■ Do not recharge, heat, disassemble or short the battery, or put it into a

fire or flame.

■ Do not use a battery whose “recommended expiration date” has been

reached, or which is completely discharged.

■ Do not use different types of batteries or old and new batteries at the

same time.

■ Do not carry the battery together with metal necklaces, hairpins or

other metal accessories.

■ When storing or disposing of used batteries, make sure to put some

insulation tape on their terminals (+ and -) to avoid short-circuits.

If these precautions are not followed, heating, fluid leakage or explosion may occur. This may cause burns or personal injury. If battery fluid gets on your skin or clothes, wash immediately with clean water. If battery fluid gets in your eyes, rinse your eyes with clean water immediately and see a doctor. Do not touch the battery fluid on instruments or devices with bare hands. Wipe off with a cloth or paper towel.

Satellite A500/A500D

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Satellite A500/A500D

Type of battery that can be used for the Full Size Remote Controller

When the batteries shipped with the Remote Controller are discharged, replace them with commercially available AA manganese batteries or AA alkaline batteries. Other types or battery should not be used.

Installing the batteries

1. Open the battery cover on the back of the Remote Controller. Slide the cover in the direction of the arrow to remove the cover.

Figure 2-12 Opening the battery cover

2. Insert the batteries in place. Be sure to place the batteries with their polarities (+ and -) in the correct position.

Figure 2-13 Inserting the batteries

3. Close the battery cover. Close the cover securely until it clicks.

Figure 2-14 Closing the battery cover

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Replacing the batteries

When the batteries in the Remote Controller reach the end of their life, the Remote Controller may not operate correctly or work only within a short distance from your computer. In this instance, you should purchase new batteries and replace the discharged ones.

1. Open the battery cover on the back of the Remote Controller.

2. Replace the batteries.

Be sure to place the batteries with their polarities (+ and -) in the correct position.

Figure 2-15 Removing the batteries

3. Close the battery cover until it clicks.

Type of battery that can be used for the Slim Size Remote Controller

When the batteries shipped with the Remote Controller are discharged, replace them with commercially availabl e CR2016 Lithium batteries. Other types or battery should not be used.

Installing the battery

1. Open the battery cover on the back side of the remote controller.

Figure 2-16 Opening the battery cover

2. Be sure to place the battery with correct polarities. Press the battery

down to the stopper then push it forward to fit into the battery case.

1. Stopper

2. Battery

Figure 2-17 Inserting the battery

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Satellite A500/A500D

3. Close the battery cover. Close the cover securely until it clicks.

Replacing the battery

1. Open the battery cover on the back side of the remote controller.

2. Hold down the stopper and slide the battery out of battery case.

3. Insert the battery in place. Be sure to place the batteries with correct

4. Close the battery cover. Close the cover securely until it clicks.

Figure 2-18 Closing the battery cover

Figure 2-19 Removing the batteries

polarities. Press the battery down to the stopper then push it forward to fit into the battery case.

Placing Slim size remote controller

Inserting a Slim size remote controller

To insert a Slim size remote controller, follow the steps as detailed below:

1. Make sure the ExpressCard slot is empty.

2. Set the front side upward and insert a Slim size remote controller.

Figure 2-20 Inserting a Slim size remote controller

3. Press a Slim size remote controller gently to ensure a firm connection is made.

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Removing a Slim size remote controller

To remove a Slim size remote controller, follow the steps as detailed below:

1. Press a Slim size remote controller slightly to make it stretch out.

2. Grasp a Slim size remote controller and pull it out from the slot.

AC adaptor

The AC adaptor can automatically adjust to any voltage ranging from 90 to 264 volts and to a frequency of either 47 or 63 hertz, enabling you to use this computer in almost any country/region. The adaptor converts AC power to DC power and reduces the voltage supplied to this computer.

To recharge the battery , simply connect the AC adaptor to a power source and to the computer. Please refer to Chapter 6, Power and Power - up

Modes for further information.

Satellite A500/A500D

Figure 2-21 Removing a Slim size remote controller

Figure 2-22 The AC adaptor (2-pin plug)

Figure 2-23 The AC adaptor (3-pin plug)

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■ Depending on the model in question, either a 2-pin or 3-pin

■ Do not use a 3-pin to 2-pin conversion plug.

■ The supplied power cord conforms to safety rules and regulations in

Always use the TOSHIBA AC adaptor that was included with your computer, or use AC adaptors specified by TOSHIBA to avoid any risk of fire or other damage to the computer. Use of an incompatible AC adaptor could cause fire or damage to the computer possibly resulting in serious injury.

adaptor/power lead will be bundled with the computer.

the region the product is bought and should not be used outside of this region. In order to use the adaptor/computer in other regions, you should please buy a power cord that conforms to the safety rules and regulations in that particular region.

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Getting Started

■ If the battery pack is not pre-installed in the computer that you

purchased, please install the battery pack before you start using the computer. Please refer to Chapter 6, Replacing the battery pack, for further information about installing the battery pack.

■ All users should be sure to read the section Starting up for the first

time.

■ Be sure to read the enclosed Instruction Manual for Safety and

Comfort for information on the safe and proper use of this computer. It is intended to help you be more comfortable and productive while using a notebook computer. By following the recommendations in it you may reduce your chance of developing a painful or disabling injury to your hand, arms, shoulders or neck.

This chapter provides basic information to start using your computer. It covers the following topics:

■ Connecting the AC adaptor

■ Opening the display

■ Turning on the power

■ Starting up for the first time

■ Turning off the power

■ Restarting the computer

■ System Recovery Options

■ Creating Optical Recovery Discs

■ Restoring the pre-installed software from the Recovery hard disk drive

■ Restoring the pre-installed software from your created Recovery Discs

■ Use an anti-virus software and update it regularly.

■ Never format storage media without checking its content - formatting

destroys all stored data.

■ It is a good idea to periodically back up the internal hard disk drive or

other main storage device to external media. General storage media is not durable or stable over long periods of time and under certain conditions may result in data loss.

■ Before you install a device or application, save any data in memory to

the hard disk drive or other storage media. Failure to do so may result in the loss of data.

Satellite A500/A500D

Chapter 3

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Satellite A500/A500D

Connecting the AC adaptor

Attach the AC adaptor when you need to charge the battery or you want to operate from AC power. It is also the fastest way to get started, because the battery pack will need to be charged before you can operate from battery power.

The AC adaptor can be connected to any power source supplying from 90 to 264 volts and 47 or 63 hertz. For details on using the AC adaptor to charge the battery pack, refer to Chapter 6, Power and Power-up Modes.

■ Always use the TOSHIBA AC adaptor that was included with your

computer or use AC adaptors specified by TOSHIBA to avoid any risk of fire or other damage to the computer. Use of an incompatible AC adaptor could cause fire or damage to the computer possibly resulting in serious injury. TOSHIBA assumes no liability for any damage caused by use of an incompatible adaptor.

■ Never plug the AC adaptor into a power source that does not

correspond to both the voltage and the frequency specified on the regulatory label of the unit. Failure to do so could result in a fire or electric shock, possibly resulting in serious injury.

■ Always use or purchase power cables that comply with the legal

voltage and frequency specifications and requirements in the country of use. Failure to do so could result in a fire or electric shock, possibly resulting in serious injury.

■ The supplied power cord conforms to safety rules and regulations in

the region from which the product is purchased and should not be used outside this region. For use in other regions, please buy power cords that conform to safety rules and regulations in that particular region.

■ Do not use a 3-pin to 2-pin conversion plug.

■ When you connect the AC adaptor to the computer, always follow the

steps in the exact order as described in the User’s Manual. Connecting the power cable to a live electrical outlet should be the last step otherwise the adaptor DC output plug could hold an electrical charge and cause an electrical shock or minor bodily injury when touched. As a general safety precaution, avoid touching any metal parts.

■ Never place your computer or AC adaptor on a wooden surface,

furniture, or any other surface that could be marred by exposure to heat since the computer base and AC adaptor’s surface increase in temperature during normal use.

■ Always place your computer or AC adaptor on a flat and hard surface

that is resistant to heat damage.

Refer to the enclosed Instruction Manual for Safety and Comfort for detailed precautions and handling instructions.

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1. Connect the power cord to the AC adaptor.

Figure 3-1 Connecting the power cord to the AC adaptor (2-pin plug)

Figure 3-2 Connecting the power cord to the AC adaptor (3-pin plug)

Either a 2-pin or 3-pin adaptor/cord will be included with the computer depending on the model.

2. Connect the AC adaptor’s DC output plug to the DC IN 19V jack on the

right side of the computer.

Figure 3-3 Connecting the adaptor to the computer

3. Plug the power cord into a live wall outlet - the Battery and DC IN

indicators on the front of the computer should glow.

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Opening the display

The display panel can be opened to a wide range of angles for optimal viewing.

While holding down the palm rest with one hand so that the main body of the computer is not raised, slowly lift the display panel - this will allow the angle of the display panel to be adjusted to provide optimum clarity.

Use reasonable care when opening and closing the display panel. Opening it vigorously or slamming it shut could damage the computer.

Figure 3-4 Opening the display

■ When opening the panel, please be careful not to force it beyond the

point where it moves easily.

■ Be careful not to open the display panel too far as this could put stress

on the display panel’s hinges and cause damage.

■ Do not press or push on the display panel.

■ Do not lift the computer by the display panel.

■ Do not close the display panel with pens or any other objects left in

between the display panel and the keyboard.

■ When opening or closing the display panel, place one hand on the

palm rest to hold the computer in place and use the other hand to slowly open or close the display panel (Do not use excessive force when opening or closing the display panel).

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Turning on the power

This section describes how to turn on the power - the Power indicator light will then indicate the status. Please refer to the Monitoring of power condition section in Chapter 6, Power and Power-up Modes, for more information.

■ After you turn on the power for the first time, do not turn it off until you

have set up the operating system. Please refer to the section Starting

up for the first time for more information.

■ Volume cannot be adjusted during Windows Setup.

1. Open the computer’s display panel.

2. Press the computer’s power button.

Satellite A500/A500D

Figure 3-5 Turning on the power

Starting up for the first time

The Windows 7 Welcome Screen will be the first screen displayed when you turn on the power. Follow the on-screen instructions on each screen in order to properly install the operating system.

When it is displayed, be sure to read the Software License Terms carefully.

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Turning off the power

The power can be turned off in one of three modes, either Shut Down Mode, Hibernation Mode or Sleep Mode.

Shut Down Mode

When you turn off the power in Shut Down Mode no data will be saved and the computer will boot to the operating system’s main screen the next time it is turned on.

1. If you have entered data, either save it to the hard disk drive or to other storage media.

2. Make sure all disk/disc activity has stopped before removing the CD/DVD/BD or floppy diskette.

■ Make sure the Hard Disk Drive indicator is off. If you turn off the power

while a disk (disc) is being accessed, you may lose data or damage the disk.

■ Never turn off the power while an application is running. Doing so could

cause loss of data.

■ Never turn off the power, disconnect an external storage device or

remove storage media during data read/write. Doing so can cause data loss.

3. Click Start.

4. Click Shut down button ( ).

5. Turn off any peripheral devices connected to your computer.

Do not turn the computer or peripheral devices back on immediately - wait a short period to avoid any potential damage.

Hibernation Mode

The Hibernation Mode feature saves the contents of memory to the hard disk drive when the computer is turned off so that, the next time it is turned on, the previous state is restored. Please note that the Hibernation Mode feature does not save the status of any peripheral devices connected to the computer.

■ Save your data. While entering Hibernation Mode, the computer saves

the contents of memory to the hard disk drive. However, for safety sake, it is best to save your data manually.

■ Data will be lost if you remove the battery or disconnect the AC adaptor

before the save is completed. Wait for the Hard Disk Drive indicator light to go out.

■ Do not install or remove a memory module while the computer is in

Hibernation Mode. Data will be lost.

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Benefits of Hibernation Mode

The Hibernation Mode feature pro vi des the following benefits:

■ Saves data to the hard disk drive when the computer automatically

shuts down because of a low battery condition.

■ Y ou can return to your previous working environment immediately when

you turn on the computer.

■ Saves power by shutting down the system when the computer receives

no input or hardware access for the time period set by the System Hibernate feature.

■ Allows the use of the panel power off feature.

Starting Hibernation Mode

You can also enable Hibernation Mode by pressing FN + F4 - please refer to Chapter 5, The Keyboard, for further details.

To enter Hibernation Mode, follow the steps below.

1. Click St art.

2. Click the arrow button ( ) in the power management button ( ) and select Hibernate from the menu.

Automatic Hibernation Mode

The computer can be configured to enter Hibernation Mode automatically when you press the power button or close the lid. In order to define these settings, you can follow the steps as described below:

1. Click St art and click the Control Panel.

2. Click System and Security and click Power Options.

3. Click Choose what the power button does or Choose what closing the lid does.

4. Enable the desired Hibernation Mode settings for When I press the power button and When I close the lid.

5. Click the Save changes button.

Data save in Hibernation Mode

When you turn off the power in Hibernation Mode, the computer will take a moment to save the current data in memory to the hard disk drive. During this time, the Hard Disk Drive indicator will glow.

After you turn off the computer , and the content of memory has been saved to the hard disk drive, turn off the power to any peripheral devices.

Do not turn the computer or devices back on immediately. Wait a moment to let all capacitors fully discharge.

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Sleep Mode

If you have to interrupt your work, you are able to turn off the power without exiting from your software by placing the computer into Sleep Mode. In this mode data is maintained in the computer’s main memory so that when you turn on the power again, you can continue working right where you left off.

When you have to turn off your computer aboard an aircraft or in places where electronic devices are regulated or controlled, always completely shut down the computer. This includes turning off any wireless communication switches or devices, and canceling settings that reactivate the computer automatically, such as a timer recording function. Failure to completely shut down the computer in this way could allow the operating system to reactivate and run pre-programmed tasks or preserve unsaved data, which could interfere with aviation or other systems, possibly causing serious injury.

■ Before entering Sleep Mode, be sure to save your data.

■ Do not install or remove a memory module while the computer is in

■ Do not remove the battery pack while the computer is in Sleep Mode

■ When the AC adaptor is connected, the computer will go into Sleep Mode

■ To restore the operation of the computer from Sleep Mode, press and

■ If the computer enters Sleep Mode while a network application is

■ To prevent the computer from automatically entering Sleep Mode,

■ To use the Hybrid Sleep function, configure it in the Power Option s.

Sleep Mode. The computer or the memory module could be damaged.

(unless the computer is connected to an AC power source). Data in memory could be lost.

according to the settings in the Power Options (to access it, Start -> Control Panel -> System and Sec urity -> Power Options).

hold the power button or any key on the keyboard for a short amount of time. Please note that keyboard keys can only be used if the Wake-up on Keyboard option is enabled within the HW Setup utility.

active, the application might not be restored when the computer is next turned on and the system returns from Sleep Mode.

disable Sleep Mode within the Power Options (to access it, Start -> Control Panel -> System and Security -> Power Options).

Benefits of Sleep Mode

The Sleep Mode feature provides the following benefits:

■ Restores the previous working environment more rapidly than does the

Hibernation Mode feature.

■ Saves power by shutting down the system when the computer receives

no input or hardware access for the time period set by the System Sleep Mode feature.

■ Allows the use of the panel power off feature.

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Executing Sleep Mode

You can also enable Sleep Mode by pressing FN + F3 - please refer to Chapter 5, The Keyboard, for further details.

You can enter Sleep Mode in one of four ways:

■ Click Start then click the arrow button ( ) in the power management

button ( ) and select Sleep from the menu.

■ Close the display panel. Please note that this feature must be enabled

within the Power Options (to access it, click Start -> Control Panel -> System and Security -> Power Options).

■ Press the power button. Please note that this feature must be enabled

within the Power Options (to access it, click Start -> Control Panel -> System and Security -> Power Options).

When you turn the power back on, you can continue where you left when you shut down the computer.

■ When the computer is in Sleep Mode, the Power indicator will blink

amber.

■ If you are operating the computer on battery power, Sleep Mode will

consume more power while the computer is off. You can lengthen the overall operating time by turning it off into Hibernation Mode.

Sleep Mode limitations

Sleep Mode will not function under the following conditions:

■ Power is turned back on immediately after shutting down.

■ Memory circuits are exposed to static electricity or electrical noise.

Restarting the computer

Certain conditions require that you reset the computer, for example if:

■ You change certain computer settings.

■ An error occurs and the computer does not respond to your keyboard

commands.

If you need to restart the computer, there are three ways this can be achieved:

■ Click Start then click the arrow button ( ) in the power management

button ( ) and select Restart from the menu.

■ Press CTRL, ALT and DEL simultaneously (once) to display the menu

window, then select Restart from the Shut down options.

■ Press the power button and hold it down for four seconds. Once the

computer has turned itself off, wait between ten and fifteen seconds before turning the power on again by pressing the power button.

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System Recovery Options

A hidden partition is allocated on the hard disk drive for the System Recovery Options.

This partition stores files which can be used to repair the system in the event of a problem.

The System Recovery Options feature will be unusable if this partition is deleted.

System Recovery Options

The System Recovery Options feature is installed on the hard disk when shipped from the factory. The System Recovery Options menu includes tools to repair startup problems, run diagnostics or restore the system.

See the Windows Help and Support content for more information about Startup Repair.

The System Recovery Options can also be run manually to repair problems.

The procedure is as follows. Follow the instructions shown on the on-screen menu.

1. Turn off the computer.

2. While holding the F8 key, turn on the computer.

3. The Advanced Boot Options menu will be displayed. Use the arrow keys to select Repair Your Computer and press ENTER.

4. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Restoring the pre-installed Software

Depending on the model you purchased, different ways for restoring the pre-installed software are offered:

■ Creating optical Recovery Discs and restoring the pre-installed software

from them

■ Restoring the pre-installed software from the Recovery hard disk drive

■ Ordering Recovery Discs from TOSHIBA and restoring the pre-installed

software from them*

* Please note that this service is not free-of-charge.

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Creating Optical Recovery Discs

This section describes how to create Recovery Discs.

■ Be sure to connect the AC adaptor when you create Recovery Discs.

■ Be sure to close all other software programs except the Recovery

Media Creator.

■ Do not run software such as screen savers which can put a heavy load

on the CPU.

■ Operate the computer at full power.

■ Do not use power-saving features.

■ Do not write to the disc when the anti-virus software is running. Wait for

it to finish, then disable virus detection programs including any software that checks files automatically in the background.

■ Do not use utilities, including those intended to enhance hard disk drive

access speed. They may cause unstable operation and damage data.

■ Do not shut down/log off or Sleep/Hibernate while writing or rewriting

the disc.

■ Set the computer on a level surface and avoid places subjected to

vibrations such as airplanes, trains, or cars.

■ Do not use on unstable tables or other any other unstable surfaces.

A recovery image of the software on your computer is stored on the hard disk drive, and can be copied to DVD media by using the following steps:

1. Select either blank DVD media.

2. The application will allow you to choose from a variety of different media

onto which the recovery image can be copied including DVD-R, DVD-R DL, DVD-RW, DVD+R, DVD+R DL and DVD+RW.

Please note that some of the above media may not be compatible with the optical disc drive installed into your computer. You should therefore verify the optical disc drive supports the blank media you have chosen before proceeding.

3. Turn on your computer and all ow it to load the Windows 7 operating

system from the hard disk drive as normal.

4. Insert the first blank media into the optical disc drive tray .

5. Double click the Recovery Media Creator icon on the Windows 7

desktop, or select the application from Start Menu.

6. After Recovery Media Creator starts, select the type of media and the

title you wish to copy, and then click the Create button.

If your optical disc drive can only write to CDs, select “CD” as the “Disc Set” within the Recovery Media Creator application.Otherwise, if your optical disc drive can write both CDs and DVDs, select the type of media you want to create.

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Restoring the pre-installed software from the Recovery hard disk drive

A portion of the total hard disk drive space is configured as a hidden recovery partition. This partition stores files which can be used to restore pre-installed software in the event of a problem.

If you subsequently set up your hard disk drive again, do not change, delete or add partitions in a manner other than specified in the manual, otherwise you may find that space for the required software is not available.

In addition, if you use a third-party partitioning program to reconfigure the partitions on your hard disk drive, you may find that it becomes impossible to setup your computer.

When the sound mute feature has been activated by pressing the Mute panel (Fn+ESC), be sure to disable this to allow sounds to be heard before starting the restore process. Please refer to Chapter 5, The Keyboard, for further details.

You can not use System Recovery Options if restoring the pre-in stalled software without System Recovery Options.

When you reinstall the Windows operating system, the hard disk will be reformatted and all data will be lost.

1. Turn off your computer.

2. Turn on the computer and when the TOSHIBA screen appears repeatedly press the F8 key.

3. The Advanced Boot Options menu will be displayed. Use the arrow keys to select Repair Your Computer and press ENTER.

4. Select your preferred keyboard layout and press Next.

5. To access the recovery process please log on as an enabled user with sufficent rights.

6. Click TOSHIBA HDD Recovery on the System Recovery Options screen.

7. Follow the on-screen instructions on the TOSHIBA HDD Recovery dialog. The computer will be restored to its factory state.

Please set your BIOS to default before you recover your computer to the factory state!

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Restoring the pre-installed software from your created Recovery Discs

If the pre-installed files are damaged, you are able to either use the Recovery Discs you have created or the hard disk drive recovery process to restore the computer to the state it was in when you originally received it. To perform this restoration, follow the steps below:

When the sound mute feature has been activated by pressing the FN + ESC key, be sure to disable this to allow sounds to be heard before starting the restore process. Please refer to Chapter 5, The Keyboard, for further details.

You can not use System Recovery Options if restoring the pre-installed software without System Recovery Options.

When you reinstall the Windows operating system, the hard disk will be reformatted and all data will be lost.

1. Load the Recovery Discs into the optical disc drive and turn off the

computer’s power.

2. While holding down F12 key on the keyboard, turn on your computer -

when TOSHIBA Leading Innovation>>> appears, release the F12 key.

3. Use the up and down cursor keys to select the CD-ROM icon from the

menu. Please refer to the Boot Priority section in Chapter 7, HW Setup

and Passwords, for further information.

4. A menu will be displayed from which you should follow the on-screen

instructions.

Ordering Recovery Discs from TOSHIBA*

You can order Product Recovery discs for your notebook from the TOSHIBA Europe Backup Media Online Shop.

* Please note that this service is not free-of-charge.

1. Visit https://backupmedia.toshiba.eu on the Internet.

2. Follow the on-screen instructions. You will receive your Recovery Discs within two weeks after placing your

order.

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3-14 User’s Manual

Operating Basics

This chapter describes the basic operations of your computer and highlights the precautions that should be taken when using it.

Using the Touch Pad

To use the Touch Pad, simply touch and move your fingertip across it in the direction you want the on-screen pointer to go.

Satellite A500/A500D

Chapter 4

1. Touchpad Enable/Disable button

2. Touchpad

3. Touchpad buttons

4. Fingerprint Sensor

Figure 4-1 Touch Pad and Touch Pad control buttons

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Touch Pad Gesture

There are four convenient gestures that make users operate the system easier and faster.

ChiralMotion

You can scroll vertically and horizontally. To enable these features, select the Enable vertical scrolling and Enable horizontal scrolling check boxes.

Click on the window or item you wish to scroll and slide your finger upwards or downwards along the right edge of the T ouchPad to scroll vertically . Slide your finger to the left or right along the lower edge of the TouchPad to scroll horizontally.

If scrolling does not respond, ensure that the appropriate check box is selected and that the window or item on which you have clicked is scrollable. If you still have problems, check your Scrolling Region settings.

Pinch Zoom (Pinch)

The Pinch Zoom gesture delivers zooming functionality in many applications. You can use the Pinch Zoom gesture to perform the same functions that a scroll wheel performs on standard Windows applications that support CTRL-SCROLL WHEEL zoom functionality.

To enable this feature, select the Enable Pinch Zoom check box. To use a Pinch Zoom gesture:

1. Place two fingers down on the TouchPad surface.

2. Slide the fingers further apart to zoom in or slide the fingers closer together to zoom out. For the best zooming experience, use the tips of your fingers.

Rotating (ChiralRotate)

The Rotating features provide convenient gestures for rotating photos and other objects.

Momentum

The Momentum feature delivers smooth, fast, trackball-like mouse movement. One quick flick of the finger on the TouchPad surface can move the cursor across the entire computer screen. Momentum reduces the repetitive motion and fatigue associated with moving the cursor long distances, while providing a smooth and natural feel similar to using a trackball. Momentum is ideal for Real Time Strategy (RTS) games, First Person Shooter (FPS) games, and Role Playing Games (RPG).

The two buttons below the Touch Pad are used like the buttons on a standard mouse - press the left button to select a menu item or to manipulate text or graphics designated by the pointer, and press the right button to display a menu or other function depending on the software you are using.

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The T ouchpad Enable/Disable button below the spacebar allows you to turn off the touchpad while using a mouse. Press the button again to enable the touchpad.

You can also tap the Touch Pad to perform functions similar to those of the left button on a standard mouse.

Click: Tap once Double-click: T ap twice Drag and drop: Tap to select the item(s) you want to move, leave your

finger on the T ouch Pad after the second tap and then move the item(s) to their new destination.

Using the Fingerprint Sensor

This product has a fingerprint utility installed for the purpose of enrolling and recognizing fingerprints. By enrolling the ID and password to the fingerprint authentication device, it is no longer necessary to input the password from the keyboard. Just by swiping the finger against the fingerprint sensor, the following functions will be enabled:

■ Logon to Windows and access a security-enabled homepage through

IE (Internet Explorer)

■ Files and folders can be encrypted/decrypted and third party access to

them prevented.

■ Disable the password-protected screen-saver when returning from

power-saving (Sleep) mode.

■ Single Sign On feature

■ Authentication of the User Password and Hard Disk Password when

booting up the computer.

Satellite A500/A500D

To “swipe” refers to the action of reading a fingerprint using the fingerprint sensor.

How to Swipe your Finger

Using the following steps when swiping fingers for fingerprint registration or authentication will help to minimize authentication failu res:

1. Align the first joint of the finger to the center of the sensor. Lightly touch

the sensor and swipe finger levelly towards you.

2. While lightly touching the sensor, swipe the finger towards you until the

sensor surface becomes visible.

3. Ensure the center of the fingerprint is on the sensor when swiping the

finger.

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■ Avoid swiping with the finger stiff or pressed-on too hard:

■ Confirm the center of the fingerprint whirl before swiping:

■ When fingerprint reading is not successful:

Figure 4-2 Slide the finger over the recognition sensor

Fingerprint reading may fail if the center of the fingerprint is not touching on the sensor, or when finger is swiped while pressing hard. Make sure that the center of the fingerprint is touching the sensor before swiping.

The thumb’s fingerprint has a bigger whirl, which is prone to misalignment and distortions. This will cause difficulty in registration and a drop in the authentication success rate. Always confirm the center of the fingerprint whirl so that it is swiped along the centerline of the sensor.

There is a possibility of authentication failures if the finger is swiped too quickly or too slowly. Follow the onscreen instructions to adjust the speed of the swipe.

Points to note about the Fingerprint Se nsor

Failure to follow these guidelines might result in (1) damage to the sensor or cause sensor failure, (2) finger recognition problems, or lower finger recognition success rate.

■ Do not scratch or poke the sensor with your nails or any hard or sharp

objects.

■ Do not press the sensor strongly.

■ Do not touch the sensor with a wet finger or any wet objects - keep the

sensor surface dry and free from water vapor.

■ Do not touch the sensor with a soiled or dirty finger as minute foreign

particles of dust and dirt may scratch it.

■ Do not paste stickers or write on the sensor.

■ Do not touch the sensor with a finger or any other object which may

have a build-up of static electricity on it.

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Observe the following before you place your finger on the sensor whether for fingerprint enrollment/registration or recognition.

■ Wash and dry your hands thoroughly.

■ Remove static electricity from your fingers by touching any metal

surface. Static electricity is a common cause of sensor failures, especially when the weather is dry.

■ Clean the sensor with a lint-free cloth - do not use detergent or any

other chemicals to clean the sensor.

■ Avoid the following finger conditions for enrollment or recognition as

they may result in fingerprint enrollment errors or a drop in the fingerprint recognition success rate

■ Soaked or swollen finger, for example as may occur after taking a

bath.

■ Injured finger

■ Wet finger

■ Soiled or oily finger

■ Extremely dry skin condition on finger

Observe the following to improve the fingerprint recognition success rate.

■ Enroll two or more fingers.

■ Enroll additional fingers if a recognition failure often occurs when using

already enrolled fingers.

■ Check the condition of your finger - any conditions which have changed

since enrollment, such as injury, rough skin, and extremely dry, wet, soiled, dirty, oily, soaked or swollen fingers, may lower the recognition success rate. Also if the fingerprint is worn down or the finger becomes thinner or fatter, the recognition success rate may be lowered.

■ The fingerprint for each finger is different and unique. Please ensure

that only the registered or enrolled fingerprint or fingerprints are used for identification.

■ Check sliding position and speed.

■ The fingerprint sensor compares and analyzes the unique

characteristics in a fingerprint. However, there may be instances where certain users are unable to register their fingerprints due to insufficient unique characteristics in their fingerprints.

■ The recognition success rate may differ from user to user.

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Fingerprint sensor limitations

■ The fingerprint sensor compares and analyzes the unique

characteristics in a fingerprint.

■ A warning message will be displayed when recognition is abnormal or

recognition is not successful within a fixed duration.

■ The recognition success rate may differ from user to user.

■ TOSHIBA does not guarantee that this fingerprint recognition

technology will be error-free.

■ TOSHIBA does not guarantee that the fingerprint sensor will recognize

the enrolled user or accurately screen out unauthorized users at all times.TOSHIBA is not liable for any failure or damage that might arise out of the use of this fingerprint recognition software or utility.

Points to note about the fingerprint utility

■ If Windows® 7 file encryption function EFS (Encryption File System) is

used to encrypt a file, the file cannot be further encrypted using the encryption function of this software.

■ You can back up the fingerprint data or the information registered to

Automatic password input in IE.

■ Please use Import/Export on TOSHIBA Fingerprint Utility main menu.

Software Management.

■ Please also refer to the fingerprint utility Help file for more information.

You can start it using the following method:

■ Click Start -> All Programs -> TOSHIBA -> Utilities -> TOSHIBA

Fingerprint Utility. The main screen is displ ayed. Click “?” in th e

lower left corner of the screen.

Setup Procedure

Please use the following procedure when first using fingerprint authentication.

Fingerprint Registration

Enroll the required authentication data using the Fingerprint Enrollment Wizard.

■ The fingerprint authentication uses the same Windows logon ID and

password. If the Windows logon password has not been setup, please do so before registration.

■ This sensor has memory space for at least 20 fingerprint patterns. You

might be able to register more fingerprint patterns depending on the sensor memory usage.

1. Click Start -> All Programs -> TOSHIBA -> Utilities -> TOSHIBA Fingerprint Utility. Or double click the icon in the Task Bar.

2. The Enter Windows Password screen is displayed. Enter a password into the Enter Windows Password field. Click Next.

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3. The “Enroll” screen is displayed. Click the non-enrolled finger icon

above the finger and click Next.

4. The note for enrollment operation screen is displayed. Confirm the

message and click Next.

5. The Scanning Practice screen is displayed. You can practice swiping

your finger. When you have finished practicing swiping your finger, click Next.

6. The last step for enrollment screen is displayed. Swipe three times with

the same finger. If scan of fingerprint succeeds, “Enrollment succeeded! Do you want to save this fingerprint?” will show, click “OK”.

7. In case of finger injury or authentication failure, it is recommended that

another fingerprint also be enrolled. The following message will be displayed: “It’s strongly recommended you enroll one more fingerprint”. Click OK and repeat steps 3, 4, 5 and 6 with another finger.

How to Delete the Fingerprint Data

Saved fingerprint data is stored in the Non-volatile memory inside the fingerprint sensor. If you hand over the PC to others, or dispose of it, the following operations are recommended.

1. Click Start -> All Programs -> TOSHIBA -> Utilities -> TOSHIBA

Fingerprint Utility.

2. The TOSHIBA Fingerprint Utility main menu screen is displayed.

3. Swipe your enrolled finger to enter the main menu.

4. Delete fingerprints:

■ To delete individual fingerprints:

1. Click “Enroll”.

2. Click the fingerprint mark above the registered finger.

3. “Are you sure you want to delete this template?” will be displayed on screen, click OK button. If you want to delete the other finger, repeat step 2,3.

■ To delete for all user’s fingerprints:

1. Click “Run as administrator” in lower left. If UAC setting for windows is off, this button won’t appear.

2. [User Account Control] window is displayed when you click “Run as administrator”. Select “Allow” on [User Account Control] window.

3. Swipe your enrolled finger.

4. Click “Fingerprint control”.

5. Click [Delete All] button in the lower right.

6. “Are you sure you want to delete all fingerprints?” will be displayed on screen, click OK button.

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Windows Logon via Fingerprint Authentication

In place of the usual Windows logon by ID and password, fingerprint authentication also allows logon to Windows.

This is useful especially when many users are using the PCs, as user selection can be skipped.

Fingerprint Authentication Procedure

1. Start up the computer.

2. The Logon Authorization screen is displayed. Choose any of the enrolled fingers and swipe the fingerprint on the sensor. If authentication is successful, the user will be logged on to Windows.

■ If the fingerprint authentication fails, please logon using the Windows

logon password.

■ Please logon using the Windows logon password if the fingerprint

authentication failed for five times. To logon using the Windows logon password, enter the Windows logon password at the [Welcome] screen as normal.

■ A warning message will be displayed when authentication is abnormal

or authentication is not successful within a fixed duration.

Fingerprint system boot authentication

General

The fingerprint authentication system can be used to replace the keyboard based User Password authentication system when booting up.

If you do not want to use the fingerprint authentication system for password authentication when booting up, but prefer to use the keyboard-based system instead, press the ESC key or click Switch User button when the Fingerprint System Authentication screen is displayed. This will switch the password input screen to the keyboard-based one.

■ It is necessary to register the User Password before using the

fingerprint Pre-OS feature and its extended function, the fingerprint Single Sign-On feature. Please use TOSHIBA HW Setup to register the User Password.

■ If you fail fingerprint authentication more than five times, you must

enter the User Password or Supervisor Password manually to start the computer.

■ When swiping, please do it slowly and at a constant speed. If this does

not improve the authentication rate, please adjust the speed.

■ If there are any changes in the environment or settings related to

authorization, you will be required to provide authorization information such as a User Password and HDD password.

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Fingerprint Single Sign-on Feature

General

The Single Sign-On is a feature that allows the user to complete the authentication for both the User Password (and optionally, the HDD user and Supervisor passwords) and logging on to Windows using only one fingerprint authentication when booting up. It is necessary to register the User Password and Windows Logon password before using the fingerprint Pre-OS feature and this fingerprint Single Sign-On feature. Please use TOSHIBA HW Setup to register your User Password.

Only one fingerprint authentication is required to replace the User Password (and, if selected, the HDD user and Supervisor passwords) and Windows Logon password.

How to enable fingerprint system boot authentication settings and Single Sign-On feature

It is necessary to first enroll your fingerprint with the TOSHIBA Fingerprint Utility and Single Sign-on feature prior to enabling and configuring the

fingerprint Pre-OS feature. Check that your fingerprint is enrolled before configuring the settings.

1. Logon as Administrator means a user has administrator privileges.

2. Click Start, point to All Programs, point to TOSHIBA, point to Utilities,

point to TOSHIBA Fingerprint Utility and click it.

3. Swipe your finger across the fingerprint sensor.

4. Click “Run As Administrator”. If UAC Setting for windows is off, this

button won’t appear.

5. [User Account Control] window is displayed when you click “Run as

administrator”. Select “Allow” on [User Account Control] window.

6. Swipe your finger across the fingerprint sensor.

7. Click “Setting”.

8. Place a check mark in Boot authentication. If you want to use the Single

Sign-on feature, also check on Single Sign-on.

9. Click “Apply”.

10.“Save succeeded” is displayed. Click “OK”. 1 1 .Click “Close.”

12.“Are you sure you want to close this window?” is displayed. Click “OK”.

13.Click “Close”.

14.“Are you sure you want to close this window?” is displayed. Click “OK”.

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Satellite A500/A500D

Fingerprint utility limitations

TOSHIBA does not guarantee that the fingerprint utility technology will be completely secure or error-free. TOSHIBA does not guarantee that the fingerprint utility will accurately screen out unauthorized users at all times. TOSHIBA is not liable for any failure or damage that might arise out of the use of the fingerprint software or utility.

■ The fingerprint sensor compares and analyzes the unique

characteristics in a fingerprint. However, there may be instances where certain users are unable to register their fingerprints due to insufficient unique characteristics in their fingerprints.

■ The recognition success rate may differ from user to user.

Using the TOSHIBA USB Sleep-and-Charge function

USB Sleep-and-Charge

Your computer can sup ply USB bus power (DC5V) to the USB port even when the power of the computer is turned OFF. “Power OFF” includes Sleep Mode, Hibernation Mode or shutdown state.

This function can be used for ports that support the USB Sleep-and-Charge function (hereinafter called “compatible ports”). Compatible ports are USB

ports that have the ( ) symbol icon. You can use the “USB Sleep-and-Charge function” to charge certain USB

compatible external devices such as mobile phones or portable digital music players However, the “USB Sleep-and-Charge function” may not work with certain external devices even if they are compliant with the USB specification. In those cases, turn the power of the computer ON to charge the device.

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■ When “USB Sleep-and-Charge function” is set to [Enabled], USB bus

power (DC5V) will be supplied to compatible ports even when the power of the computer is turned OFF. USB bus power (DC5V) is similarly supplied to the external devices which are connected to the compatible ports. However, some external devices cannot be charged solely by supplying USB bus power (DC5V). As for the specifications of the external devices, please contact the device manufacturer or check the specifications of the external devices thoroughly before use.

■ Using the USB Sleep-and-Charge function to charge external devices

will take longer than charging the devices with their own chargers.

■ If USB Sleep-and-Charge is enabled, the computer’s battery will

discharge during hibernation or when the computer is turned off. It is recommended that you connect the AC adaptor to the computer when enabling the USB Sleep-and-Charge function.

■ External devices connected to the USB bus power (DC5V) function that

interfaces with the power ON/OFF of the computer may always be in an operational state.

■ When there is a current overflow of the external devices connected to

the compatible ports, USB bus power (DC5V) supply may be stopped for safety reasons.

■ When “USB Sleep-and-Charge function” is set to [Enabled], the “USB

Wakeup function” does not work for compatible ports. In that case, if there is a USB port that does not have the USB Sleep-

and-Charge function-compatible icon ( ), attach the mouse or keyboard to it. If all USB ports have the USB Sleep-and-Charge function-compatible

icon ( ), change the “USB Sleep-and-Charge function” setting to [Disabled]. The “USB Wakeup function” will now work, but the “USB Sleep-and-

Charge function” will be disabled.

Metal paper clips or hair pins/clips will generate heat if they come into contact with USB ports. Do not allow USB ports to come into contact with metal products, for example when carrying the computer in your bag.

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Starting the USB Sleep and Charge Utility

To start the utility, click Start -> All Programs -> TOSHIBA -> Utilities -> USB Sleep and Charge; or Control Panel -> Hardware and Sound -> TOSHIBA USB Sleep and Charge.

Enabling USB Sleep-and-Charge

This utility can be used to enable and disable the USB Sleep-and-Charge function.

Check the check boxes to enable the USB Sleep-and-Charge function. In the default state this function is disabled.

Power supply mode settings

Your PC has multipl e charging modes so that many different USB devices can be supported for USB Sleep and Charge function. Typical Mode (Default) is suitable for a wide range of digital audio players.

However, determining which mode is suitable for your USB device is unknown without trying. Try each mode, using the following procedure, from Typical Mode to Alternate Mode(*1) to find the suitable mode for your USB device to charge.

This function may not be able to be used with some connected external devices even if the appropriate mode is selected. In this situation, clear the “USB Sleep-and-Charge” check box and stop using this function.

*1. Some computers may not support all modes.

Battery Settings

This utility can be used to specify the lower limit of remaining battery life for USB Sleep-and-Charge. Move the slider bar to specify the lower limit. If the remaining battery life falls below the setting, the “USB Sleep-and-Charge function” will be stopped. Unchecking the “Enable under Battery Mode” check box sets the utility to only charge when the AC adaptor is connected.

Using optical disk drives

■ Tray ODD

The full-size drive provides high-performance execution of CD/DVD/BD based programs. Yo u can run either 12 cm (4.72") or 8 cm (3.15") CD/DVD/BDs without an adaptor. A Serial ATA interface controller is used for CD/DVD/BD operation. When the computer is accessing a CD/DVD/BD, an indicator on the drive glows.

■ Slot ODD

The full-size drive provides high-performance execution of CD/DVD based programs. Y ou can run 12 cm (4.72") CD/DVDs without an adaptor . A Serial ATA interface controller is used for CD/DVD operation.

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■ Use the DVD playback application to view DVD-Video discs.

■ Use only round standard (12cm) disc with this slot ODD. Any other size

or shape disc may not be able to be removed from the slot and may damage the system as well as the disc.

Loading discs

■ Tray ODD

To load CD/DVD/BD’s, follow the steps as listed below and refer to figures 4-4 to 4-6.

1. When the computer’s power is on, press the eject button to open the

disc tray slightly.

1. Eject button

Figure 4-3 Pressing the eject button

2. Grasp the disc tray gently and pull until it is fully opened.

Figure 4-4 Pulling the disc tray open

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3. Lay the CD/DVD/BD, label side up, in the disc tray.

When the disc tray is fully opened, the edge of the computer will extend slightly over the area where you insert the media. Therefore, when loading a CD, DVD or BD, you will need to turn it slightly at an angle when you place it in the disc tray. After loading the CD/DVD/BD you should ensure that it is properly positioned over the central spindle and that it lies flat within the tray.

Figure 4-5 Inserting a CD/DVD/BD

■ Do not touch either the laser lens or the area immediately around it -

doing so could cause misalignment and may damage the drive.

■ Make sure that no foreign objects are inserted into or otherwise enter

the drive. Check the disc tray, especially the area behind the front edge, to ensure that there are no foreign objects or material present before closing the drive.

4. Press the center of the CD/DVD/BD gently until you feel it click into place on the center spindle. The disc should be slightly below the top of the spindle and flush with the spindle base.

5. Press the center of the disc tray in order to close it - the tray will click into place when it is locked.

If the CD/DVD/BD is not seated properly when the disc tray is closed, you may find that the media itself might become damaged, and/or the disc tray might not open fully when you next press the eject button.

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Toshiba Laptop A500, Laptop A500D User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Table of Contents

Preface

General Precautions

Equipment checklist

Features

Special features

TOSHIBA Value Added Package

Utilities and Applications

Options

Front with the display closed

Left side

Right side

Underside

Front with the display open

Function buttons

System indicators

Optical disc drives

Remote Controller

Using the Remote Controller

Installing/Removing batteries

AC adaptor

Connecting the AC adaptor

Opening the display

Turning on the power

Starting up for the first time

Turning off the power

Restarting the computer

System Recovery Options

Using the Touch Pad

Using the Fingerprint Sensor

Using the TOSHIBA USB Sleep-and-Charge function

Using optical disk drives