Toshiba A8, PRO A120 User Manual

User’s Manual

TECRA A8 / Satellite Pro A120

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TECRA A8 / Satellite Pro A120

Copyright

© 2007 by TOSHIBA Corporation. All rights reserved. Under the copyright laws, this manual cannot be reproduced in any form without the prior written permission of TOSHIBA. No patent liability is assumed, with respect to the use of the information contained herein.

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

Second edition January 2007

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

Disclaimer

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

Trademarks

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

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

Windows and Microsoft are registered trademarks and Windows Vista is a trademark of Microsoft Corporation.

Photo CD is a trademark of Eastman Kodak.

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

i.LINK is trademark and registered trademark of Sony Corporation. InterVideo and WinDVD are registered trademarks of InterVideo Inc. DVD MovieFactory is a registered trademarks of Ulead Systems, Inc.

Other trademarks and registered trademarks not listed above may be used in this manual.

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EU Declaration of Conformity

This product is carrying the CE-Mark in accordance with the related European Directives. Responsible for CE-Marking is TOSHIBA Europe GmbH, Hammfelddamm 8, 41460 Neuss, Germany.

The complete and official EU Declaration of Conformity can be found on TOSHIBA’s web site http://epps.toshiba-teg.com on the Internet.

CE compliance

This product is labelled with the CE Mark in accordance with the related European Directives, notably Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive 89/ 336/EEC for the notebook and the electronic accessories including the supplied power adapter, the Radio Equipment and Telecommunications Terminal Equipment Directive 1999/5/EC in case of implemented telecommunication accessories and the Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC 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 380V three-phase is used)

■Medical Environments

■Automotive Environments

■Aircraft Environments

If this product is supplied with a network port, please refer to the paragraph "Network connection".

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

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

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 explosive atmospheres is not permitted.

Modem warning notice

Conformity Statement

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

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

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

Network Compatibility Statement

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

Germany	ATAAB AN005, AN006, AN007, AN009, AN010 and
	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	ATAAB AN003, 004
countries/regions

Specific switch settings or software setup are required for each network, please refer to the relevant sections of the user guide for more details.

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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.

Following information is only for EU-member states:

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

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Optical disc drive safety instructions

Be sure to check the international precautions at the end of this section.

Panasonic

DVD-ROM&CD-R/RW UJDA770

■The DVD-ROM&CD-R/RW drive employs a laser system. To ensure proper use of this product, please read this instruction manual carefully and retain for future reference. Should the unit ever require maintenance, contact an authorized service location.

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

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

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DVD Super Multi with Double Layer Recording UJ-841

■The DVD Super Multi drive with Double Layer Recording model employs a laser system. To ensure proper use of this product, please read this instruction manual carefully and retain for future reference. Should the unit ever require maintenance, contact an authorized service location.

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

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

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TEAC

CD-ROM CD-224E

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

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

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

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DVD-ROM DV-28E

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

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

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

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International precautions

CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT

LASERSCHUTZKLASSE 1

PRODUKT

TOEN60825

ADVERSEL:USYNLIG LASERSTRÅLING VED ÅBNING, NÅR SIKKERHEDSAF-BRYDER

ER UDE AF FUNKTION. UNDGÅ UDSÆTTSLSE FOR STRÅLING

CAUTION: This appliance contains a laser system and is classified as a "CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT." To use this model properly, read the instruction manual carefully and keep this manual for your future reference. In case of any trouble with this model, please contact your nearest "AUTHORIZED service station." To prevent direct exposure to the laser beam, do not try to open the enclosure.

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.

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.

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OBS! Apparaten innehåller laserkomponent som avger laserstråining överstigande gränsen för laserklass 1.

VAROITUS. Suojakoteloa si saa avata. Laite sisältää laserdiodin, joka lähetää näkymätöntä silmilie vaarallista lasersäteilyä.

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

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

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Preface

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

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

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

If you are an experienced computer user, please continue reading the preface to learn how this manual is organized, then become acquainted with this manual by browsing through its pages. Be sure to look over the Special features section of the Introduction, to learn about features that are uncommon or unique to the computers and carefully read HW Setup.

If you are going to install PC cards or connect external devices such as a monitor, be sure to read Chapter 8, Optional Devices.

Manual contents

This manual is made up of the following.

Chapter 1, Introduction, is an overview of the computer’s features, capabilities, and options.

Chapter 2, The Grand Tour, identifies the components of the computer and briefly explains how they function.

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Chapter 3, Getting Started, provides a quick overview of how to begin operating your computer and gives tips on safety and designing your work area.

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

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

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

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

Chapter 8, Optional Devices, describes the optional hardware available.

Chapter 9, Troubleshooting, provides helpful information on how to perform some diagnostic tests, and suggests courses of action if the computer doesn’t seem to be working properly.

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

The Appendixes provide technical information about your computer.

The Glossary defines general computer terminology and includes a list of acronyms used in the text.

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

Conventions

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

Abbreviations

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

Icons

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

Keys

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

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

Messages

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

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

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

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

Terminology

This term is defined in this document as follows:

Start	The word "Start" refers to the " " button in
	Microsoft® Windows Vista™.

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General Precautions

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

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

Creating a computer-friendly environment

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

■Dust, moisture, and direct sunlight.

■Equipment that generates a strong electromagnetic field, such as stereo speakers (other than speakers that are connected to the computer) or speaker phones.

■Rapid changes in temperature or humidity and sources of temperature change such as air conditioner vents or heaters.

■Extreme heat, cold, or humidity.

■Liquids and corrosive chemicals.

Stress injury

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

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Heat injury

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

■If the computer has been used for a long time, avoid direct contact with the metal plate supporting the I/O ports. It can become hot.

■The surface of the AC adaptor can become hot when in use. This condition does not indicate a malfunction. If you need to transport the AC adaptor, disconnect it and let it cool before moving it.

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

Pressure or impact damage

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

PC card overheating

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

Mobile phone

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

Instruction Manual for Safety 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.

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Table of Contents

Chapter 1 Introduction

Equipment checklist. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1 Features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3 Special features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-11 TOSHIBA Value Added Package . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-13 Utilities and Applications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-14 Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17

Chapter 2 The Grand Tour

Front with the display closed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1 Left side . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3 Right side . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4 Back side. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4 Underside . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7 Front with the display open. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8 System indicators. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10 Keyboard indicators. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11 USB floppy disk drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12 Optical disk drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13 AC adaptor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16

Chapter 3 Getting Started

Connecting the AC adaptor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2 Opening the display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4 Turning on the power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5 Starting up for the first time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5 Turning off the power. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6 Restarting the computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10 System Recovery Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10

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Chapter 4 Operating Basics

Using the USB floppy disk drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2 Using optical disk drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3 Writing CDs on DVD-ROM&CD-R/RW drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6 Writing CD/DVDs on DVD Super Multi drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8 Media care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15 Sound system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-17 Modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-19 Wireless communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-22 LAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-26 Cleaning the computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-28 Moving the computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-28 Using the Hard Disk Drive (HDD) Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-29 Heat dispersal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-31

Chapter 5 The Keyboard

Typewriter keys. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1 Function keys: F1 … F12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2 Soft keys: Fn key combinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2 Hot keys. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3 Windows special keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5 Keypad overlay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6 Generating ASCII characters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7

Chapter 6 Power and Power-Up Modes

Power conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1 Power indicators. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2 Battery types. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3 Care and use of the battery pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-5 Replacing the battery pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-10 TOSHIBA Password Utility. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-12 Power-up modes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-15 Panel power on/off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-15 System Auto Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-15

Chapter 7 HW Setup

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

Chapter 8 Optional Devices

PC card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-2 SD card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3 Memory expansion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-6 Battery pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9 AC adaptor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9 Battery charger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-10

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USB floppy disk drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-10 External monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-10 TV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-11 i.LINK (IEEE1394) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-12 Advanced Port Replicator III Plus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-14 Serial port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-15 Security lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-16

Chapter 9 Troubleshooting

Problem solving process. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-1 Hardware and system checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3 TOSHIBA support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-22

Chapter 10 Legal Footnotes

CPU*1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-1

General Main Memory*2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-2

Battery Life*3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-2

Hard Disk Drive (HDD) Capacity*4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-2

LCD*5. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3

Graphics Processor Unit ("GPU")*6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3

Wireless LAN*7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3

Non-applicable Icons*8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3

Copy Protection*9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3

Images*10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3

Appendix A Specifications

Appendix B Display Controller and Modes Appendix C Wireless LAN

Appendix D Bluetooth wireless technology Interoperability Appendix E AC Power Cord and Connectors

Appendix F TOSHIBA Anti-theft Protection Timer Appendix G If your computer is stolen

Glossary Index

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Chapter 1

Introduction

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

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

Equipment checklist

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

Hardware

Check to make sure you have all the following items:

■TECRA A8 / Satellite Pro A120 Portable Personal Computer

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

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

■Battery pack (installed in the computer)

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Introduction

Software

The following Windows® operating system and utility softwares are preinstalled.

■Microsoft® Windows Vista™

■TOSHIBA Value Added Package

■TOSHIBA SD Memory Boot Utility

■DVD Video Player

■Ulead DVD MovieFactory®

■TOSHIBA Disc Creator

■TOSHIBA ConfigFree

■TOSHIBA Assist

■TOSHIBA SD Memory Utilities

■TOSHIBA Acoustic Silencer

■TOSHIBA HDD Protection

■Windows Mobility Center

■Online manual

Documentation and Backup Media

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

■TECRA A8 / Satellite Pro A120 Quickstart

■Instruction Manual for Safety and Comfort

■Warranty Information

■Product Recovery DVD-ROM

■Microsoft® Windows Vista™ Quick Start Guide

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

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Introduction

Features

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

Processor

Built-in	The computer is equipped with one of the
	following Intel® processors.
	■ Intel® Core™ 2 Duo Processor, which
	incorporates a 2MB or 4MB level 2 cache
	memory. It also supports Enhanced Intel®
	SpeedStep® Technology.
	■ Intel® Core™ Duo Processor, which
	incorporates a 2MB level 2 cache memory. It
	also supports Enhanced Intel® SpeedStep®
	Technology.
	■ Intel® Core™ Solo Processor, which
	incorporates a 2MB level 2 cache memory. It
	also supports Enhanced Intel® SpeedStep®
	Technology.

Some models in this series carry Intel® Centrino® Duo Mobile Technology, which is based on three separate technologies of Intel® Core™2 Duo processor, Intel® PRO/Wireless Network Connection, and Mobile Intel® 945 Express Chipset Family.

Some models in this series carry Intel® Centrino® Duo Mobile Technology, which is based on three separate technologies of Intel® Core™ Duo processor, Intel® PRO/Wireless Network Connection, and Mobile Intel® 945 Express Chipset Family.

Some models in this series carry Intel® Centrino® Mobile Technology, which is based on three separate technologies of Intel® Core™ Solo processor, Intel® PRO/Wireless Network Connection, and Mobile Intel® 945 Express Chipset Family.

Legal Footnote (CPU)*1

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

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		Introduction
	Memory
	Slots	256, 512, 1,024 or 2,048 MB memory modules
		can be installed in the two memory slots for a
		maximum of 4,096 MB.
	Video RAM	The Video RAM capacity will differ depending on
		the system memory capacity in the computer.
		■ If system memory is 512MB, a maximum of
		64MB will be used as Video RAM.
		■ If system memory is 1024MB or more, a
		maximum of 256MB will be used as Video
		RAM.

Legal Footnote (General Main Memory)*2

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

Power

Battery pack	The computer is powered by one rechargeable
	lithium-ion battery pack.

Legal Footnote (Battery Life)*3

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

RTC battery	The internal RTC battery backs up the Real Time
	Clock (RTC) and calendar.
AC adaptor	The AC adaptor provides power to the system
	and recharges the batteries when they are low. It
	comes with a detachable power cord which will
	either have a 2-pin or 3-pin plug enclosure.
	Because it is universal, it can receive a range of
	AC voltage from 100 to 240 volts; however, the
	output current varies among different models.
	Using the wrong model can damage your
	computer. Refer to the AC adaptor section in
	Chapter 2, The Grand Tour.

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Introduction

Disks

Hard Disk Drive

(HDD) Capacity

Available in five sizes.

■40.0 billion bytes (37.26 GB)

■60.0 billion bytes (55.89 GB)

■80.0 billion bytes (74.53 GB)

■100.0 billion bytes (93.16 GB)

■120.0 billion bytes (111.79 GB)

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

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

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

USB floppy disk Accommodates either 3 1/2" 1.44-megabyte or drive 720-kilobyte floppy disk. It connects to a USB

port. Optional or provide with some models.

Optical disk drive

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

CD-ROM drive	Some models are equipped with a full-size,
	CD-ROM drive module that lets you run CD
	without using an adaptor. It reads CD-ROMs at
	maximum 24 speed. This drive supports the
	following formats:
	■ CD-DA
	■ CD-Text
	■ Photo CD™ (single/multi-session)
	■ CD-ROM Mode 1, Mode 2
	■ CD-ROM XA Mode 2 (Form1, Form2)
	■ Enhanced CD (CD-EXTRA)
	■ Addressing Method 2

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Introduction

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

■DVD-ROM

■DVD-Video

■CD-DA

■CD-Text

■Photo CD™ (single/multi-session)

■CD-ROM Mode 1, Mode 2

■CD-ROM XA Mode 2 (Form1, Form2)

■Enhanced CD (CD-EXTRA)

■Addressing Method 2

DVD-ROM&CD-R/RW Some models are equipped with a full-size, drive DVD-ROM&CD-R/RW drive module that lets you

run CD/DVDs without using an adaptor. It reads DVD-ROMs at maximum 8 speed and CD-ROMs at maximum 24 speed. It writes CD-R at up to 24 speed and CD-RW at up to 24 speed. This drive supports the following formats in addition to DVD-ROM drive.

■CD-R

■CD-RW

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Introduction

DVD Super Multi Some models are equipped with a full-size DVD drive Super Multi drive module that lets you record

data to rewritable CD/DVDs as well as run either 12cm (4.72") or 8cm (3.15") CD/DVDs without using an adaptor. It reads DVD-ROMs at maximum 8 speed and CD-ROMs at maximum 24 speed. It writes CD-R at maximum 24 speed, CD-RW at maximum 10 speed, DVD-R and DVD+R at maximum 8 speed, DVD-RW and DVD+RW at maximum 4 speed, DVD-R DL at maximum 2 speed, DVD+R DL at maximum

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

■DVD-R

■DVD-RW

■DVD-RAM

■DVD-R DL

■DVD+R

■DVD+RW

■DVD+R DL

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

Display

The computer’ LCD display panel supports high-resolution video graphics.

The LCD screen can be set at a wide range of viewing angles for maximum comfort and readability.

Built-in	15.4" TFT LCD screen, 16 million colors, with
	one of the following resolution:
	■ WXGA, 1280 horizontal × 800 vertical pixels

Legal Footnote (LCD)*5

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

Graphics controller The graphics controller maximizes display performance. Refer to Appendix B, Display Controller and Modes, for more information.

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Introduction

Legal Footnote (Graphics Processor Unit ("GPU"))*6

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

Keyboard

Built-in	85 keys or 87 keys, compatible with IBM®
	enhanced keyboard, embedded numeric overlay,
	dedicated cursor control,	and		keys. Refer

to Chapter 5, The Keyboard, for details.

TOSHIBA Pointing Device

Built-in Touch Pad	A Touch Pad and control buttons in the palm rest
	enable control of the on-screen pointer and
	scrolling of windows.
Ports
Serial	RS-232C compatible port (16550UART
	compatible).
	Depending on the model, a serial port is not
	present.
External monitor	Analog VGA port supports VESA DDC2B
	compatible functions.
Universal Serial Bus	The computer has three Universal Serial Bus
(USB 2.0)	ports that comply with the USB 2.0 standard.
Docking	This port enables connection of an optional
	Advanced Port Replicator III Plus described in
	the Options section.
	Depending on the model, a docking port is not
	present.
Slots
PC card	The PC card slot accommodates a Type II card.
SD card	This slot lets you easily transfer data from
	devices, such as digital cameras and Personal
	Digital Assistants that use SD card flash memory.
	Refer to Chapter 8, Optional Devices.

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		Introduction
	Multimedia
	Sound system	The Windows sound system compatible sound
		system provides output to internal speakers and
		a microphone as well as supporting jacks for an
		external microphone and headphones.
	Video-out jack	The video out jack lets you transfer video data to
	(S-Video)	external devices. Data output speed depends on
		the type of device connected to the S-Video
		cable.
		Depending on the model, a Video out jack is not
		present.
	Headphone jack	A 3.5 mm mini headphone jack enables
		connection of stereo headphones.
	Microphone jack	A 3.5 mm mini microphone jack enables
		connection of a three-conductor mini jack for
		monaural microphone input.
	Communications
	Modem	An internal modem provides capability for data
		and fax communication supporting the V.90
		(V.92) standards. Refer to AC Power Cord and
		Connectors section in Appendix E. The speed of
		data transfer and fax depends on analog
		telephone line conditions. It has a modem jack
		for connecting to a telephone line. It is
		preinstalled as a standard device in some
		markets. Both the V.90 and V.92 standards are
		supported only in the USA, Canada, UK, France,
		Germany and Australia. Only V.90 is available in
		other regions.
	LAN	This computer has built-in support for Ethernet
		LAN (10 megabits per second, 10BASE-T), Fast
		Ethernet LAN (100 megabits per second,
		100BASE-TX) or Gigabit Ethernet LAN
		(1000 megabits per second, 1000BASE-T).
	Bluetooth	Some computers in this series are equipped with
		Bluetooth functions. Bluetooth wireless
		technology eliminates the need for cables
		between electronic devices such as computers
		and printers. Bluetooth provides fast, reliable,
		and secure wireless communication in a small
		space.

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

■Theoretical maximum speed: 54Mbps (IEEE802.11a, 802.11g)

■Theoretical maximum speed: 11Mbps (IEEE802.11b)

■Frequency Channel Selection (5 GHz: Revision A / 2.4 GHz: Revision B/G)

■Roaming over multiple channels

■Card Power Management

■Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) data encryption, based on 128 bit encryption algorithm.

■Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA).

■Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) data encryption.

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

■The values shown above are the theoretical maximums for Wireless LAN standards. The actual values may differ.

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

Legal Footnote (Wireless LAN)*7

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

Wireless	This switch turns the Wireless LAN and
communication	Bluetooth functions on and off.
switch	All models are provided with Wireless
	Communication switch. Some models are equipped
	with both Wireless LAN and Bluetooth functions.

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Introduction

Security

Security lock slot Allows the connection of a security lock to anchor the computer to a desk or other large object.

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 Click Start, Control Panel, System and Maintenance, and then click Power Options.

TOSHIBA Assist	Press this button to launch the program
button	automatically. When power-off, Sleep Mode and
	Hibernation Mode, press this button to start the
	computer and launch the program.
	This button is available on Tecra A8 models only.
TOSHIBA	Press this button to change internal display,
Presentation button	simultaneous display or multi-monitor display.
	The TOSHIBA Presentation button has the same
	functionality as the Connect display button in the
	Mobility Center. Pressing this button when an
	external display is connected will open the
	Windows Vista™ TMM (Transient Multimon
	Manager) screen.
	This button is available on Tecra A8 models only.
Hot keys	Hot keys are specific key combinations that let
	you quickly change the system configuration
	directly from the keyboard without running a
	system program.
Display automatic	This feature automatically cuts off power to the
power off *1	computer’s LCD display panel when there is no
	keyboard input for a specified time. Power is
	restored when any key is pressed. This can be
	specified in the Power Options.
HDD automatic	This feature automatically cuts off power to the
power off *1	hard disk drive when it is not accessed for a
	specified time. Power is restored when the hard
	disk is accessed. This can be specified in the
	Power Options.

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