Xplore GeneSys User Manual

User Guide
GeneSys Pen Tablet Computer
Welcome
Congratulations! We are pleased to add you to the growing list of “Xplorers” who have chosen our innovative GeneSys® Pen Computing System as their mobile computer platform.
The GeneSys® System has been designed, tested and manufactured with a very specific objective in mind…to meet the needs of today’s mobile workers. The real world offers environmental and physical challenges that must be met with a mobile computing system that not only works the way you do, but also can take the abuses of everyday wear and tear. The GeneSys System design is based upon years of experience in rugged mobile applications.
Advanced technology, innovative designs and a rugged body are just a few of the highlights of your GeneSys System. Equally important is Xplore’s commitment to ensuring you are treated with the same respect and honesty you offer to your customers and peers every day.
Thank you for choosing Xplore and enjoy your journey through our world of mobile computing.
The Xplore Team
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Highlights
As one of the most comprehensive wireless pen computing systems available, your GeneSys System offers innovative features that allow you to take advantage of the most sophisticated application software and peripheral configurations available.
§ High visibility Color LCDs, combined with a unique optics technology provides industry-leading visibility in challenging lighting conditions including direct sunlight.
§ Integrated System that has been designed as a single pen/touch-based mobile computing system including an innovative Pentium® powered pen computer, comprehensive expansion module(s) and docking options.
§ Performance Driven Design with Intel® Pentium® III 500 MHz processor integrated into a unique Main Logic Board design which offers Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) BUS technology, 256K of L2 Cache, 8MB of Video memory and other “Performance Accelerators”.
§ Multimedia Ready System with ATI video controller and Sound Blaster compatible audio components brings applications to life.
§ Rugged Magnesium Housing combined with a patented bumper protection system and components manufactured for extreme conditions means that the GeneSys is built to last.
§ Advanced Resistive Touch Screen provides exceptional accuracy, a brighter and clearer screen through enhanced light penetration and heightened reliability.
§ Adaptable Design, which accommodates multiple PC cards for integrated communication options. Wireless and peripheral expansion that works with today’s technology and can accommodate the new technology of tomorrow.
§ Rugged Quick Release Docks provide a secured, mechanical docking system that ensures positive docking and overall reduction in stress on the docking connectors.
§ Dual USB ports are protected in a recessed portion of the patented bumper system and provide instant connectivity to a growing universe of USB compliant peripherals.
As you “Xplore” your GeneSys Mobile Computing System, you will discover many performance-based features. A number of accessory and peripheral options are also available to support your entire system.
Please note: Xplore Technologies® Corp. and its 100% owned subsidiaries, Xplore Technologies® Corporation of America or Xplore Technologies International may be referenc ed throughout this manual by various names such as Xplore, XPLORE, Xplore Technologies, etc. Please consider these references interchangeable.
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Regulatory Notices
FCC (Notice for users in the United States of America and Canada.)
WARNING – FCC Regulations state that any unauthorized changes or modifications to this
equipment not expressly approved by the manufacturer could void the user’s authority to operate this equipment.
The GeneSys computer and the Quick Release docking station comply with Part 15, Class B of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations. Trade Name: Xplore Technologies ® Corp. Model: GeneSys
®
II and GeneSys
®
Maximus
Responsible Party: Xplore Technologies ® Corp.
11675 Jollyville Road, Suite 150, Austin Texas, 78759
Attention: VP of Engineering This personal computer system consists of the following components:
Component Supplier Address Model Compliance Computer Assembly SMTC 15700 Long Vista Drive
Computer Motherboard Dock Assembly
Delta Electronics, Inc. 186 Ruey Kuang Road, Neihu Apex Integrated
Manufacturing, Inc.
Austin, Texas 78728 Taipei 114, Taiwan, R.O.C.
8006 Cameron Road Austin, TX 78754
GeneSys II and GeneSys Maximus GeneSys DOC
Xpander and Quick Release Dock
DOC
DOC
Equipment Classification: FCC Class B Assembly Type of Product: Pen-Based Computer with Intel ® Pentium ® III 500MHz
Processor and Docking System. Chipset: Intel ® Pentium III uPGA-2 Manufacturer: SMTC, Delta Electronics
CE (Notice for users in the countries that are part of the European Union)
The European Conformity marking on this product means that this product complies with both the EMC Directive and the Low Voltage Directive of the European Union. Compliance with these directives implies conformity with the following European Norms:
§ EN55022=”Limits and Methods of Measurement of Radio Interference Characteristics for
Information Technology Equipment”
§ EN50082-1=”Electromagnetic Compatibility-Generic Immunity Start Part 1: Residential,
Commercial, and Light Industry”
§ EN60950=”Safety of Information Technology Equipment”
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Safety Information
General Information
Except as described elsewhere in this manual; refer all servicing to qualified personnel.
Immediately shut off the computer and refer for servicing under the following conditions:
When the power cord or plug is damaged or frayed.
If the computer has been dropped and the housing has been damaged.
Turn off the computer and disconnect the AC cord before cleaning.
Battery Information
Handling
Never put the battery pack in a fire, as it could explode and cause injury.
Do not attempt to open or alter the battery pack.
Do not allow liquids to come in contact with the battery pack.
Do not solder to the battery terminals.
Remove battery from system before shipping or storing.
Charging
Charge the battery pack only with the AC and/or DC adapter(s) or desktop chargers provided by
Xplore.
Discharging
Do not use the battery pack for any purpose other than powering the GeneSys computer.
Storage
Store the battery pack in a cool and dry place.
Recharge the battery pack after storage, before use.
If the GeneSys is scheduled to be away from a power source (AC or DC) for any length of time,
please remove the battery pack from the GeneSys and properly store it until further use is required.
Conditioning
Must be conditioned prior to initial use to ensure optimal battery performance and life.
CAUTION:
If a battery is incorrectly replaced there is danger of explosion. Replace only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Discard used batteries according to the manufacturer’s instructions. FOR A COMPLETE ELECTRICAL DISCONNECTION, PULL OUT THE AC/DC PLUG AND REMOVE THE BATTERY.
Copyright
It is the intent of XPLORE that this product be used in full compliance with the copyright laws of the United States and Canada as well as countries where Xplore is actively selling its products. In addition, it is also the intent of Xplore that prior permission be obtained from copyright owners whenever necessary.
Product Information and Customer Assistance
For Product Information and Customer Assistance:
Inside North America Call: 1-888-449-7567 Xplore Technologies Corp. Outside North America Call: 358-9-8545-800 Xplore Technologies International
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About this Manual
Disclaimer
This manual has been validated and reviewed for accuracy. The instructions and descriptions it contains are accurate for the GeneSys Pen Computers at the time of this manual’s production. However, succeeding computers and manuals are subject to change without notice. Xplore assumes no liability for damages incurred directly or indirectly from errors, omissions or discrepancies between the computer and the manual.
Information in this manual is subject to change without notice and does not represent a commitment on the part of Xplore Technologies Corp. or Xplore Technologies Corporation of America, (“Xplore”).
Xplore shall not be liable for technical or editorial errors or omissions contained herein; nor for incidental or consequential damages resulting from the furnishing, performance, or use of the material.
Xplore strongly recommends that separate permanent written records be kept of all important data. Data may be lost or altered in virtually any electronic memory product under certain circumstances. Therefore, Xplore assumes no responsibility for data lost or otherwise rendered unusable whether as a result of improper use, repairs, defects, battery replacement, use after the specified battery life has expired, or any other causes.
Xplore assumes no responsibility directly or indirectly, for financial losses or claims from third persons resulting from the use of this product and any of its functions, such as stolen credit card numbers, the loss or alteration of stored data, etc.
Last Revised: October 2001.
Copyright
© 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001 Xplore Technologies Corp. All rights reserved. Under the
copyright laws, this manual cannot be reproduced in any form without the prior written permission of Xplore. No patent liability is assumed, with respect to the use of the information contained herein.
GeneSys User Guide – 2nd Edition, October 2001
Trademarks
Xplore Technologies® and GeneSys® are registered trademarks of Xplore Technologies Corporation of America. Intel® Pentium® is a registered trademark of Intel® Corporation. IBM and PS/2 are trademarks of International Business Machines Corporation. Microsoft, MS-DOS, Windows, and the Windows Logo are trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. All other brand and product names not mentioned here, but referenced throughout this document are trademarks or registered trademarks and are the property of their respective holders.
Warranties
Xplore’s Standard Limited Warranty included with every shipment applies to all Xplore products. No other Warranties, whether implied or actual, will be authorized by Xplore.
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General Precautions
Xplore 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.
Heat Injury
Avoid prolonged physical contact with the exposed metal surfaces on the front and back of the computer. If the GeneSys computer is used for long periods, its surface can become warm. While the temperature may not feel hot to the touch, if you maintain physical contact with the computer for a long period of time (if you rest the computer on your lap for a defined period of time, for example) your skin might suffer low -heat injury.
PC Card Overheating
Some PC Cards (or PCMCIA) can become hot with prolonged use. This is the same for any mobile computer. If two cards are installed, both can become hot even if only one is used extensively. 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 period of time.
Pressure or Impact Damage
Do not apply heavy pressure to the computer or subject it to repetitive strong impacts. Excessive pressure or impact can cause damage to computer components or otherwise cause malfunctions.
Drops
The GeneSys computer is a full-powered, mobile computer and as such is weighted accordingly. Although the weight is equally distributed to ensure proper balance, the actual weight of the computer could cause injury if dropped onto someone’s person. Please take care not to drop the computer on any vulnerable areas.
Cumulative drops of the computer may result in damage and is not recommended. Continual or excessive drops due to misuse or abuse will not be covered by Xplore’s warranty program.
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Contents
Chapter 1: GeneSys System Overview 9
Provides a brief overview of the GeneSys Pen Computer and descriptions of key product features.
Chapter 2: Quick Start 13
Provides step-by-step instructions to help you setup and begin using the computer as quickly as possible. You should read this chapter first before you undertake any operations.
Chapter 3: Basic Operations 16
Explains the basic operations of power sources, pen and touch inputs and peripheral connections.
Chapter 4: Power Management and Battery 23
Describes how to effecti vely manage power and use the battery packs.
Appendices 27
Provides advice on the routine care and maintenance of the computer, technical specifications, and how to run the setup utility to change system settings.
Appendix A: Setup Utility 27
Appendix B: Care and Maintenance 40 Appendix C: Specifications 42 Appendix D: Glossary 43
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CHAPTER 1
Rubber
Power Button, Control
Docking Locator Pads
Display
Logo
Power Jack and
USB Host Port
GeneSys Overview
This Chapter provides an overview of your GeneSys Mobile Computer along with a brief description of key features and functions.
Xplore Your GeneSys
Grips
(Right & Left Sides)
Keypad & Indicators
GeneSys II
Screen
USB Ports
AC/DC Input Jack USB Hub Port
Power Button, Control Keypad and Indicators
Display Screen USB Host Port
AC/DC Input Jac k USB Hub Port
Docking Locator Pads Logo Plate
Rubber Gri ps
Figure 1.1 – Front and Right Side View of GeneSys II
Plate
The power button is located on the membrane keypad. In addition, the keypad has screen brightness control buttons as well as indicators for Pow er, Docking, Battery and Hard Drive activity. Also, a hidden PC speaker provides basic system sounds. See Chapter 3 for more details. The LCD displays high-contrast text and graphics. See Appendix for specifications.
A USB host is also called a “root” and controls all traffic on the bus. It is typically implemented as a separate peripheral device with a cable that plugs into a port on the hub. Can also act as a hub. An example would be a USB floppy drive. The AC and/or DC adapter plugs connect to this socket. Use only the model of adapter that is supplied by Xplore. Using the wrong adapter can damage your computer. Hubs are wiring concentrators and enable the multiple attachment characterist ics of the USB. Each hub converts a single attachment point into multiple attachment points. Hubs can detect attach and detach at each downstream. An example would be a USB hub port used to connect multiple USB devices. These are rubber pads designed to protect the top and bottom of your computer and to assist you in properly docking your computer. More detail is provided later in this manual. This is the plate where the Xplore Technologies brand logo is placed.
The rubber grips are provided to aid in shock protection of your computer and to provide a tactile, ergonomic surface for holding your computer. Facing the front of the computer, the upper left and both right hand grips are assembled at the factory and should not be removed. The lower left grip is removable in order to access the battery compartment. See procedure for accessing the battery later in this manual.
(Top & Bottom)
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Rubber
Power Button, Control
Display
Power Jack and
GeneSys Maximus
Docking Locator Pads
Grips
(Right & Left Sides)
Figure 1.2 – Front View of GeneSys Maximus
Keypad & Indicators
Screen
(Top & Bottom)
USB Ports
Power Button, Control Keypad and Indicators
Display Screen USB Host Port
AC/DC Input Jack USB Hub Port
Docking Locator Pads Rubber Grips
The power button is located on the membrane keypad. In addition, the keypad has screen brightness control buttons as well as indicators for Power, Docking, Battery and Hard Drive activity. Also, a hidden PC speaker provides basic system sounds. See Chapter 3 for more details. The LCD displays high-contrast text and graphics. See Appendix for specifications.
A USB host is also called a “root” and controls all traffic on the bus. It is typically implemented as a separate peripheral device with a cable that plugs into a port on the hub. Can also act as a hub. An example would be a USB floppy drive. The AC and/or DC adapter plugs connect to this socket. Use only the model of adapter that is supplied by Xplore. Using the wrong adapter can damage you r computer. Hubs are wiring concentrators and enable the multiple attachment characteristics of the USB. Each hub converts a single attachment point into multiple attachment points. Hubs can detect attach and detach at each downstream. An example would be a USB hub port used to connect multiple USB devices. These are rubber pads designed to protect the top and bottom of your computer and to assist you in properly docking your computer. More detail is provided later in this manual. The rubber grips are provided to aid in shock protection of your computer and to provide a tactile, ergonomic surface for holding your computer. Facing the front of the computer, the upper left and both right hand grips are assembled at the factory and should not be removed. The lower left grip is removable in order to access the battery compartment. See procedure for accessing the battery later in this manual.
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Docking
Connector Port
Certification
Seale
d Battery
Product
Guide Pin Holes for Dockin
g Carry Handle Holes
IRDA Lens
Antenna Port Hole
Label
Figure 1.3- Back and left side view of GeneSys II
Docking Connector Port Sealed Battery
Compartment Product Label Certification Label
Compartment
Label
This port allows the GeneSys computer to dock to the Xpander and Quick Release docking stations. More details are provided later in this manual. Located behind the outer lower, left rubber grip is the battery compartment. Instructions are provided later in this manual.
This label includes the product brand name and unit serial number as well as bar code. The appropriate emissions and safety certification labels are strategically located on the
back of the tablet in pre-defined cut-out sections.
IRDA Lens Carry Handle Holes
Guide Pin Holes for Docking Antenna Port Hole (optional)
Figure 1.4- Top View of GeneSys II
Infrared communication device that allows communications with other IRDA devices i.e. computers, printers, PDAs. These holes are used to affix the carry handle to the GeneSys tablet.
These holes are used as locators to ensure positive docking connections to the GeneSys docking stations.
A cable, upon which an antenna will be mounted, exits this hole. This hole is integrated into the GeneSys tablet when an internal wireless option is ordered.
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Key Features
The GeneSys incorporates the following features: Microprocessor
Level 2 Cache Memory
Video RAM Display
Graphics Controller Digitizer Battery Pack
Backup Batteries Built-in Hard Drive
Docking Interface Port Stylus (pen or touch)
Plug and Play
The GeneSys computer is equipped with an Intel Pentium® III processor. It operates at 500MHz and incorporates a math co-processor and 256K of internal L2 cache memory. A power management system called ACPI is used to save battery power. A 256KB level 2 cache is provided to maximize performance.
The GeneSys computer comes with 64 Megabytes (MB) of Random Access Memory (RAM), expandable to 256MB. The GeneSys computer provides 8MB of RAM for video display.
GeneSys II
A 10.4” Ultra Hi-Brite TFT color LCD panel supports high-resolution video graphics and employs a PCI bus for superior performance.
GeneSys Maximus
A 12.1” Active Transflective color LCD panel viewable in all lighting conditions. The graphics controller incorporates the PCI bus to maximize performance and enable flicker-free display. It also enables up to 16.7 million touches on the computer’s LCD panel. The GeneSys computer has an integrated resistive digitizer that accepts both pen and touch input. The digitizer is embedded into the glass to maximize performance and accuracy. A rechargeable Lithium Ion battery pack powers the GeneSys tablet.
An internal battery backs up the internal Real Time Clock (RTC) and calendar. The GeneSys computer has an integrated 2.5” ruggedized hard drive (HDD) with a capacity up to
20 GB. This port enables connection to any of the GeneSys docking stations and aides further expansion.
The stylus is an intuitive input device for operating a computer. It provides the functionality of a mouse with the familiarity of a regular pen or the touch of a finger. The stylus can be used for basic pointing and tapping or for handwriting right onto the integrated digitizer. When you connect an external device to the computer or vehicle dock, Plug and Play capability enables the system to recognize the connection and makes the necessary configurations automatically. This feature is effective only with Windows® 9x or 2000.
Special Features
The following features are either unique to the GeneSys or are advanced features, which make the computer more convenient to use. Hardware Setup
Pen/Touch Utility
Automatic Display Standby
Automatic HDD Power Off Low Battery Automatic Suspend
Heat Dispersal
Magnesium Housing
This program lets you customize your hardware settings according to the way you work with your GeneSys computer and the peripherals you use. This program lets you customize your digitizer settings according to the way you work with your GeneSys computer. The pen/touch interface can be configured by the user to accommodate their style. Power is automatically turned off to the LCD panel when there is no pen, touch or keyboard input for a time specified in the hardware setup program. Power is restored when the stylus or finger is touched on the screen or any key on the optional keyboard is pressed. Content is not lost when display goes into standby mode, however battery performance is improved. Power is automatically turned off to the hard disk drive when it is not accessed for a time specified in the hardware setup program. Power is restored when the hard disk is accessed.
When battery power is exhausted to the point that the computer operation cannot be continued, the system provides a visu al warning that the battery is low and the system will be shut down. An audio warning in the form of a beep is also emitted. After approximately 60 seconds, the system will enter low power state “suspend mode”. It is important to note that AC or DC pow er must be applied to the unit as quickly as possible after the warning has been issued. Once external power has been connected, a new fresh battery can be swapped in or the user can continue to use external power. The Pentium® processor has relatively high power consumption compared to earlier CPU’s. Therefore, it has greater potential for overheating, especially at higher processing speeds. To protect from overheating the GeneSys computer uses special materials to move heat away from the processor to the computer’s case and out into the air. It is normal for the case to become warm to the touch after prolonged operation, and this is expected as part of a thermal management system. The GeneSys housing is designed for harsh environments. The metal structure is much stronger than plastics and provides enhanced protection for the internal electronics.
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CHAPTER 2
Attach AC/DC
Attach cord
GeneSys
Quick Start
Your computer is designed and pre-configured for easy setup and use. This chapter describes the steps you should follow to get your GeneSys System up and running as quickly as possible. You should read this chapter first. Although many of the instructions and recommendations are common sense, we want to ensure that you have your GeneSys System configure d as quickly as possible. We recommend that you read the entire manual for a comprehensive overview of the entire GeneSys system and its operation.
Connecting to AC Power
The rechargeable battery pack, AC adapter or DC adapter can power the computer. See the next chapter for more information on power sources. The first time you use the computer, be sure to perform the steps below:
1. Make sure the computer is turned off.
2. Connect the AC adapter cord to the computer.
3. Connect the AC power cord to the AC adapter.
[WARNING] – Always use the AC adapter supplied with the computer. Using other AC adapters may damage the computer. Always hold the AC adapter cord by its plug.
4. Plug the AC power cord into a wall outlet.
GeneSys Tablet
Input
Figure 2.1 Connecting to AC Pow er Figure 2.2 Turning Power ON
Note: Alternatively power may be provided by an optional external DC automobile adaptor or connected directly via the GeneSys Xpander and Quick Release Docks for in-vehicle, forklift or mobile communication cart installation.
AC Brick/ adapter
set
Power Controls
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Turning Power On
Screen
Figure 2.3 Screen Brightness Adjustment
for GeneSys II
Figure 2.4 Screen Brightness Adjustment for GeneSys Maximus
Screen
Although we are sure these instructions are unnecessary, we have included these simple instructions for reasons of completeness. To turn on the power follow these steps:
1. Connect the computer to AC power
2. Press the power button, which is located on the membrane switch (see Chapter 3)
3. Depress the power button for approximately 2 seconds to initiate system response Note: Do not turn power off immediately after turning on the system. Instead, wait until the operating
system completes booting. When the power is turned on, the power indicator (on the gray panel above the LCD) lights and the
computer starts.
Adjusting the Screen Brightness
Brightness adjustment buttons have been provided to allow for adjustment for maximum rea dability.
Brightness
Brightness
Removing the Grips
All grips will require minimal effort to remove. However, in the event that the us er experiences difficulty removing any grip, use the follow these steps:
1. Remove the grip above the grip that covers the battery cover (top left grip).
2. Place the edge of the grip on the edge of a table or firm surface (See Figure 3).
3. Slowly but firmly push the tablet down while a table or firm surface supports the edge of the
grip. (See Figure 4).
4. Remove the grip by hand.
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Shutting Down the System
To power off the computer, from the Windows 98 or 20 00 Start menu, select Shut Down and then click Okay. The computer shuts down automatically.
Note: If a file is not saved yet, then a dialog box will appear asking you if you want to save the file or not.
[WARNING]
Turning off the power without using the Windows Shut Down feature or resetting the
computer may damage or even wipe out the data.
Before turning the computer back on, wait at least 3 seconds after turning off the computer.
Turning the power off and on in rapid succession can damage the computer’s electrical circuitry and/or operating system.
Resetting the System
Software Reset
You can reset the software if you encounter software problems, which lock up the computer. To reset the system or “reboot”, press Ctrl+Alt+Del keys simultaneously (if the optional keyboard is attached). Then follow the instructions on the screen: press the Ctrl+Alt+Del keys again. The computer restarts. This is known as a “warm boot”. If you do not have the optional keyboard attached then use the power button as outlined below.
[WARNING] Resetting may cause data loss. Use the software reset only if the normal Windows Shut Down does not work because of software malfunction. Although resetting will not damage the system, you may lose the data you are processing.
Power Button
You can turn off the computer with the power switch if you encounter hardware or software problems, which lock up the system. Hold the power button for a few seconds and the computer will shut down.
[WARNING] Before turning the computer back on, wait at least 3 seconds after turning off the computer. Turning the power off and on in rapid succession can damage the computer’s electrical circuitry. By tapping the power button in Windows 98 or 2000 will initiate Windows shutdown.
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