Wistron MS2146, MS2146BG Users Manual

Notebook Computer

User’s guide

Notebook Computer User’s guide Original Issue: August 2003

Changes may be made periodically to the information in this publication without obligation to notify any person of such revision or changes. Such changes will be incorporated in new editions of this manual or supplementary documents and publications. This company makes no representations or warranties, either expressed or implied, with respect to the contents hereof and specifically disclaims the implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.

Record the model number, serial number, purchase date, and place of purchase information in the space provided below. The serial number and model number are recorded on the label affixed to your computer. All correspondence concerning your unit should include the serial number, model number, and purchase information.

Notebook Computer

Model Number : __________________________________

Serial Number:____________________________________

Purchase Date: ___________________________________

Place of Purchase: ________________________________

All trademarks and registered trademarks are the properties of their respective companies.

Contents iii

Preface vii

Connecting the computer vii Care and maintenance ix

1 Getting familiar with your computer 1

A tour of your computer 3

Top view 3 Front view 5 Left view 6 Right view 7 Rear view 7

Bottom view 9 Features 10 Display 12 Indicators 13 Keyboard 15

Special keys 15

Keyboard ergonomics 20 Touchpad 21

Launch keys 23 Storage 25

Hard disk 25

Optical drive 25 Connectivity options 28

Ethernet and LAN 28

Fax/data modem 28

Optional wireless communication 30

Fast infrared 31 Audio 32

AV control panel 33 Securing your computer 37

Security notch 37

Passwords 37

2 Operating on battery power 39

Battery pack 41

Battery pack characteristics 41

Installing and removing the battery pack 42

Charging the battery 43

Checking the battery level 44

Optimizing battery life 44

Battery-low warning 45

Power management 45

Advanced Configuration and Power Interface 46

3 Peripherals and options 47

External monitor 49

Using simultaneous display 49 S-video 50 External keyboard 51 External pointing device 52 Printer 53 Audio devices 54 PC Card 55

PC Card slot 55 USB devices 57 IEEE 1394 devices 58 Miscellaneous options 59

Additional power packs 59 Key component upgrades 60

Memory upgrade 60

Hard disk upgrade 60

4 Moving with your computer 61

Disconnecting from the desktop 63 Moving around 63

Preparing the computer 63

What to bring to short meetings 63

What to bring to long meetings 63 Taking the computer home 63

Preparing the computer 64

What to bring with you 64

Special considerations 64

Setting up a home office 64 Traveling with the computer 65

Preparing the computer 65

What to bring with you 65

Special considerations 65 Traveling internationally with the computer 65

Preparing the computer 65

What to bring with you 66

Special considerations 66

Contentsiv

5 Software 67

System software 69 Launch Manager 70 BIOS Utility 71

Security 72 Exit 75

6 Troubleshooting 77

Frequently-asked questions 79 Error messages 82

A Specifications 87

B Notices 93

Index 101

Contentsvi

Preface

This notebook computer incorporates such features as CardBus, internal pointing device, IEEE 1394, and Universal Serial Bus in an portable package. This manual should answer most of the questions you have about the day-to-day operation of your notebook computer. You should also take advantage of the online help files that are available with almost all of the programs shipped with your computer. We hope you enjoy your notebook computer. With proper care, your computer will provide you with years of productive service.

Connecting the computer

Connecting the computer is as easy as 1-2-3.

1. Insert the battery at an angle (1); press gently on the battery (2) until it click into place. Then slide the lock/unlock latch into the lock position (3).

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Note: When using a battery pack for the first time, fully recharge the battery, then disconnect the adapter to use up the battery before recharging again. Perform this action twice to condition the battery pack.

viii

2. Connect one end of the AC adapter to the DC-in port on the computer’s rear panel and the other end to a properly grounded power outlet.

3. Slide the display cover latch to the left (1) to open the display (2). Press the power switch (3) to turn on the power. The POST (power-on self-test) routine executes and Windows begins loading.

Note: To turn off the power, we recommend that you use the Windows Turn Off command to shut down the computer. If you are unable to shut down your computer normally, press and hold the power switch for more than four seconds to turn off the computer. If you turn off the computer and want to turn it on again, wait at least two seconds before powering up.

Care and maintenance

Taking care of your computer

Your computer will serve you well if you take care of it.

• Do not expose the computer to direct sunlight. Do not place it near sources of heat, such as a radiator.

• Do not expose the computer to temperatures below 0ºC (32ºF) or above 50ºC (122ºF).

• Do not subject the computer to magnetic fields.

• Do not expose the computer to rain or moisture.

• Do not spill water or any liquid on the computer.

• Do not subject the computer to heavy shock and vibration.

• Do not expose the computer to dust and dirt.

• Never place objects on top of the computer to avoid damaging the computer.

• Never place the computer on uneven surfaces.

Taking care of your AC adapter

Here are some ways to take care of your AC adapter:

• Do not connect the adapter to any other device.

• Do not step on the power cord or place heavy objects on top of it. Carefully route the power cord and any cables away from all potential traffic.

• When unplugging the power cord, do not pull on the cord itself but pull on the plug.

• The total ampere ratings of the equipment plugged in should not exceed the ampere rating of the cord if you are using an extension cord. Also, the total current rating of all equipment plugged into a single wall outlet should not exceed the fuse rating.

Taking care of your battery pack

Here are some ways to take care of your battery pack:

• Use only batteries of the same kind as replacements. Turn the power off before removing or replacing batteries.

• Do not tamper with batteries. Keep them away from children.

• Dispose of used batteries according to local regulations. Recycle if at all possible.

Cleaning and servicing

When cleaning the computer, follow these steps:

1. Power off the computer and remove the battery pack.

2. Disconnect the AC adapter.

3. Use a soft cloth moistened with water. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners.

Contact your dealer or see your service technician if any of the following occurs:

• The computer has been dropped or the body has been damaged.

• Liquid has been spilled into the product.

• The computer does not operate normally.

1 Getting familiar with

your computer

This computer combines high-performance, versatility, power management features and multimedia capabilities with a unique style and ergonomic design. Work with unmatched productivity and reliability with your new power computing partner.

This chapter gives an in-depth "tour" of the computer’s many features.

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