User’s Manual (September 2008)
WARNING Do not attempt to disassemble your notebook computer. Doing so may void your warranty. There are no serviceable parts inside. Please refer all servicing to a qualified personnel. TRADEMARKS The Bluetooth word mark and logos are owned by the Bluetooth SIG, Inc. All brand and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies. NOTE The information in this manual is subject to change without notice.
ENERGY STAR® is a government program that offers businesses and consumers energy-efficient solutions, making it easy to save money while protecting the environment for future generations. Please reference ENERGY STAR® related information from www.energystar.gov. As an ENERGY STAR® Partner, MiTAC Technology Corporation has determined that this product meets the ENERGY STAR® guidelines for energy efficiency.
Over its lifetime, ENERGY STAR® qualified equipment in a single home office (e.g., computer, monitor, printer, and fax) can save enough electricity to light an entire home for more than 4 years. Power management (“sleep settings”) on computers and monitors can result in much savings annually. Remember, saving energy prevents pollution Because most computer equipment is left on 24 hours a day, power management features are important for saving energy and are an easy way to reduce air pollution.
Table of Contents Preface ........................................................................................ v Notational Conventions.......................................................vi Chapter 1 Getting Started...................................................1-1 Getting the Computer Running ............................................ 1-2 Unpacking ........................................................................ 1-2 Connecting to AC Power .............................................
Hot Keys .......................................................................... 2-8 Using the Touchpad ........................................................... 2-12 Configuring the Touchpad ............................................. 2-14 Using the DVD Drive (Optional) ....................................... 2-15 Inserting and Removing a Disc ...................................... 2-15 Installing an Optical Drive Dummy (Optional) ............. 2-17 Using the Video Features .........................
Inserting and Removing an ExpressCard ......................... 4-4 Using the Card Reader ......................................................... 4-6 Using the Port Replicator (Optional).................................... 4-8 Front Components............................................................ 4-8 Rear Components ............................................................. 4-9 System Memory Upgrade................................................... 4-12 Chapter 5 Using BIOS Setup .............
Chapter 8 Troubleshooting.................................................8-1 Preliminary Checklist ........................................................... 8-2 Solving Common Problems.................................................. 8-3 Battery Problems.............................................................. 8-4 Bluetooth Wireless Problems ........................................... 8-4 DVD Drive Problems ....................................................... 8-5 Display Problems ..............
Preface This manual contains information that will help you operate the computer. It is divided into 8 chapters, 2 appendices, and an index. Chapter 1, Getting Started, takes you through the process of setting up the computer and identifying its external components. Chapter 2, Operating Your Computer, tells you how to use the computer’s components and features. Chapter 3, Managing Power, provides information on power.
Notational Conventions Throughout this manual, the following conventions are used to distinguish elements of text. NOTE: identifies additional information that requires special attention. CAUTION: identifies important information that, if not followed, may result in loss of data or damage to the computer. Keyboard keys are shown in a bold typeset. For example: Press the Enter key to complete.
Chapter 1 CHAPTER Getting Started Congratulations on purchasing this durable computer. Your computer incorporates desktop computer capabilities into a compact notebook-sized package. It can greatly enhance your productivity either in the office or at home. And, of course, wherever you need it, the computer is ready and easy “to go.” This chapter first tells you step by step how to get the computer up and running.
Getting the Computer Running This section guides you through the procedures for getting the computer ready for operation. Unpacking After unpacking the shipping carton, you should find these standard items: Notebook computer Accessories: − AC adapter − AC power cord − Driver disc Inspect all the items. If any item is damaged or missing, notify your dealer immediately. Keep the shipping carton and packing materials in case you need to ship or store the computer in the future.
3. Plug the female end of the AC power cord to the AC adapter and the male end to an electrical outlet ( ). Push twice to insert thoroughly 4. When the AC adapter is connected, power is being supplied from the electrical outlet to the AC adapter and onto your computer. Now, you are ready to turn on the computer. 5. When the AC adapter is connected, it also charges the battery pack. The Battery Charge Indicator on the computer glows amber to indicate that charging is in progress.
Opening the Cover CAUTION: Be gentle when opening and closing the cover. Opening it vigorously or slamming it shut could damage the computer. Open the top cover by lifting up the cover. You can tilt the cover forward or backward for optimal viewing clarity. Turning On and Off the Computer Turning On 1. Make sure that the computer is connected to AC power or the battery is fully charged.
2. Press the power button. 3. Each time the computer is turned on, it performs a Power-On Self Test (POST), and the Windows operating system should start. Turning Off To turn off the computer power, use the “Shut Down” command of your operating system. NOTE: There are other ways you can stop the computer so that you will be back to where you left off when you next turn on the computer. (See “Stopping the Computer” in Chapter 2 for information.
Taking a Look at the Computer This section identifies the external components of the computer and briefly describes the function of each component. NOTE: Depending on the model you purchased, the appearance of your computer may not be exactly the same as those shown in this manual. Right-Side Components Ref Component Description ExpressCard Slot Accepts an ExpressCard for additional functions. P.
Left-Side Components Ref Component Description Kensington Lock Locks the computer to a stationery object for security. See Also P. 7-3 VGA Connector Connects an external display. P. 4-2 Expansion Bus Connector Connects to a Port Replicator. P. 4-8 RJ-45 Connector Connects the LAN cable. P. 2-23 USB Ports Each of the two ports connects a USB device, such as a flash disk, printer, digital camera, joystick, and more. Microphone Connector Connects an external microphone. P.
Front Components Ref 1-8 Component Description Card Reader Accepts a MultiMediaCard (MMC), Secure Digital (SD), Memory Stick (MS) or Memory Stick PRO (MS PRO) card for removable storage media. SIM Card slot Contains the optional 3G SIM card. See Also P. 4-6 P.
Bottom Components Ref Component Description See Also Battery Pack Supplies power to your computer when external power is not connected. Memory Slot Inside is the memory slot for expanding the memory size. P. 4-12 Speakers Sends out sound and voice from the computer. P. 2-20 Getting Started P.
Top-open Components Ref 1-10 Component Description See Also Microphone Receives sound and voice for the computer. P. 2-20 CMOS Camera Lens Allows you to use your computer’s camera function. LCD Screen Displays the output of the computer. P. 4-2 Power Button Turns the computer power ON and OFF. P. 1-4 Keyboard Serves as the data input device of the computer. P. 2-5 Touchpad Serves as the pointing device of the computer. P.
Ref Component Description See Also Quick Buttons Enables/disables power saving when using battery power. P. 2-4 Microsoft® Internet Explorer quick launch key. P. 2-4 P1 (Program 1 – user customized) quick launch key. P. 2-27 Fingerprint Sensor Serves as the fingerprint verification, preventing unauthorized access to your computer. P. 2-31 Indicators Show the current status of the computer’s devices. WLAN / Bluetooth® indicator Lights blue when WLAN radio is on.
Ref Component Num Lock indicator 1-12 Description Lights blue when Num Lock is on. See Also P.
Where to Go from Here As your computer is ready for operation, you may want to do any of the following now: For this purpose... To know more about the computer... Do this... Go on to the next chapter. To install the operating system if your See the operating system manual. dealer has not already done so... To know more about the operating system... Read the operating system manual. To install the drivers if your dealer has See Chapter 6. not already done so...
Chapter 2 CHAPTER Operating Your Computer This chapter provides information about the use of the computer. If you are new to computers, reading this chapter will help you learn the operating basics. If you are already a computer user but are new to notebook computers, you may choose to read only the parts containing information unique to your computer.
Starting and Stopping the Computer There are a number of ways to start and stop the computer. Starting the Computer You always start the computer using the power button. A computer starts up with an operating system (OS) existing on the storage device such as the hard disk and optical disc. The computer will automatically load the OS after you turn it on. This process is called booting. NOTE: An operating system is the platform for all your software application programs to run on.
To stop in this mode... Hibernation Do this... To start up or resume again Depending on your settings in Windows, you can place the computer in Hibernation mode by: • Closing the display cover • Pressing the power button Press the power button. If you choose to stop in Sleep or Hibernation mode, you can return to where you left off the next time you start up the computer. (See “Power Management” in Chapter 3 for more information.
Using the Quick Buttons The Quick buttons are three pre-defined buttons located on the left above the keyboard. The Easy Start buttons allow you to start the frequently-used programs with one single press of a button (from left to right): Enter into power saving mode when using battery power. The system will turn down the panel backlight and sacrifice processing speed to gain more battery life. NOTE: The ECO button works only when using battery power.
Using the Keyboard Your keyboard has all the standard functions of a full-sized computer keyboard plus a Fn key added for specific functions. The standard functions of the keyboard can be further divided into four major categories: Typewriter keys Cursor-control keys Numeric keys Function keys Typewriter Keys Typewriter keys are similar to the keys on a typewriter. Several keys are added such as the Ctrl, Alt, Esc, and lock keys for special purposes.
Cursor-Control Keys NOTE: The word “cursor” refers to the indicator on the screen that lets you know exactly where on your screen anything you type will appear. It can take the form of a vertical or horizontal line, a block, or one of many other shapes.
Numeric keys facilitate entering of numbers and calculations. When Num Lock is on, the numeric keys are activated; meaning you can use these keys to enter numerals. NOTE: When the numeric keypad is activated and you need to type the English letter in the keypad area, you can turn Num Lock off or you can press Fn and then the letter without turning Num Lock off. Some software may not be able to use the numeric keypad on the computer. If so, use the numeric keypad on an external keyboard instead.
Hot Keys Hot keys refer to a combination of keys that can be pressed any time to activate special functions of the computer. Most hot keys operate in a cyclic way. Each time a hot key combination is pressed, it shifts the corresponding function to the other or next choice. You can easily identify the hot keys with the icons imprinted on the keytop. The hot keys are described next. Key Description Switches the wireless LAN radio and/or Bluetooth® wireless feature and/or 3G feature on and off.
Key Description Switches LCD display on and off. Serves as the sleep button that you can define with Windows’ Power Options. (See the “Power Management” in Chapter 3.
Fn+F1 Behavior The following table shows the behavior of Fn+F1 key in relation to the availability of the wireless LAN module and/or Bluetooth® module and/or 3G module in your computer. NOTE: Make sure that RF switch is at the ON position. Upon pressing Fn+F1 key . . . Available Module Wireless LAN Bluetooth 3G Wireless LAN (only) Default: wireless LAN radio is ON. OFF N/A (not available) N/A Bluetooth® (only) Default: Bluetooth® wireless feature is OFF.
NOTE: Upon restarting your computer or upon waking up from Sleep mode, the system will resume Fn+F1 behavior based on the last state. Euro Symbol You can press the euro dollar sign on various keyboards. To press the euro sign on a United States-International keyboard, hold down the Alt Gr key and press 5 (which has an euro sign on it). To press the euro sign on a standard United States keyboard, hold down either of the Alt keys and type 0128 on the numeric keypad part of your keyboard.
Using the Touchpad CAUTION: Do not use a sharp object such as a pen on the touchpad. Doing so may damage the touchpad surface. NOTE: For optimal performance of the touchpad, keep your fingers and the pads clean and dry. When tapping on the pad, tap lightly. Do not use excessive force. The touchpad is a pointing device that allows you to communicate with the computer by controlling the location of the pointer on the screen and making selection with the buttons.
Here are some common terms that you should know when using the touchpad: Term Action Point Move your finger on the pad until the cursor points to the selection on the screen. Click Press and release the left button. –or– Tap gently anywhere on the pad. Double-click Press and release the left button twice in quick succession. –or– Tap twice on the pad rapidly. Drag and drop Press and hold the left button, then move your finger until you reach your destination (drag).
Configuring the Touchpad You may want to configure the touchpad to suit your needs. For example, if you are a left-handed user, you can swap the two buttons so that you can use the right button as the left button and vice versa. You can also change the size of the on-screen pointer, the speed of the pointer, and so on. To configure the touchpad, go to Control Panel Hardware and Sounds Mouse Properties.
Using the DVD Drive (Optional) Depending on the model your computer’s swappable bay may contain a DVD drive, usually configured as drive D. The Super Multi drive can work both as a DVD-ROM drive for reading DVD (Digital Versatile Disc) discs in addition to CDs, audio CDs and CD-R/-RW discs, and CD-RW drive. Can also write to DVD+R/+RW/-R/-RW/DVD-RAM discs. CAUTION: When inserting a disc, do not use force. Make sure that the disc is correctly inserted into the tray, and then close the tray.
2. Press the eject button and the DVD tray will slide out partially. Gently pull on it until it is fully extended. 3. To insert a disc, place down the disc in the tray with its label facing up. Slightly press the center of the disc until it clicks into place. Eject button In-use indicator To remove a disc, hold the disc by its outer edge and lift it up from the tray. 4. Gently push the tray back into the drive.
Installing an Optical Drive Dummy (Optional) You can install an optical drive dummy in place of the optical drive if you do not plan to use it for a length of time or to lighten the computer during transport. To install an optical drive dummy: 1. Make sure that system power is off. 2. Gently place the computer upside down. 3. Slide the swappable bay release lever outward to the unlock ( ) position ( ) and, while holding it in the unlock position, pull the optical drive off the computer ( ).
4. Slide the optical drive dummy all the way into the slot. Make sure to observe the correct orientation. The swappable bay security lock will slide to the lock ( ) position to secure the optical drive dummy.
Using the Video Features The video subsystem of your computer features: 13.3-inch TFT (Thin-Film Transistor) color LCD display with 1280×800 WXGA resolution Simultaneous display on LCD and external display, which is useful when you have a presentation as you can control the screen from your computer and face the audience at the same time. Multi-display capability, which allows you to expand your desktop on the screen to another display device so that you have more desktop space to work on.
Using the Audio Features NOTE: To take advantage of the enhanced audio capabilities, the audio driver supplied with your computer must be installed. (See chapter 6 for details.) If you experience interference while recording, try lowering the microphone recording volume. The audio subsystem of your computer features: Built-in sound system for recording and playing sound on your computer Azalia interface (high density audio codec) 2.
Ways of playing and recording sound vary with the operating system used. See your operating system documentation or online help for specific information. Connecting Audio Devices For higher audio quality, you can send or receive sound through external audio devices. NOTE: After connecting an external audio device, make sure that you specify the use of the correct audio device in Windows. Microphone Connector ( ) can be connected to an external microphone for recording voice or sound.
NOTE: The S/PDIF connector is classified as a Class 1 laser product. When using the external speakers/headphones or microphone, you cannot use the internal one.
Using the Communication Features Using the LAN NOTE: To take advantage of the LAN feature, the LAN driver supplied with your computer must be installed. (See chapter 6 for details.) The internal 10/100/1000Base-T LAN (Local Area Network) module allows you to connect your computer to a network. It supports data transfer rate up to 1000 Mbps. To connect the network cable to the LAN module, connect one end of the LAN cable to the RJ-45 connector on the computer and the other end to the network hub.
Using the Wireless LAN Depending on your model, an internal mini PCI-E wireless LAN (WLAN) card may have been pre-installed by your computer manufacturer at the factory. This card allows you to access corporate networks or the Internet in a wireless environment. The WLAN features include: WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) 64/128-bit data encryption IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n standard compliance Stated Maximum Technology Throughput Data Rates Band (GHz) (Mbps) (Mbps) 5.15 ~ 5.
To turn on the WLAN radio: 1. Make sure that the RF switch is at the ON position. 2. Press Fn+F1 to turn on the WLAN radio (see “Fn+F1 Behavior” in Chapter 2), indicated by the WLAN indicator ( ) glowing in blue when on. If you need to temporarily turn off the radio, press Fn+F1. To resume network connection, press Fn+F1 again. It takes approximately 30 seconds for your computer to make a successful WLAN connection and approximately 10 seconds to disconnect.
3. If any wireless network is detected, the following window appears on screen. Click the Show drop down menu and select Wireless. 4. Select a wireless network to connect to by clicking a selection, then click Connect. 5. Depending on the settings, you may be asked to enter a WEP key (refer to your Windows online help for more information on setting a wireless network connection).
Using the Bluetooth® Wireless Feature NOTE: To take advantage of the Bluetooth feature, the Bluetooth driver supplied with your computer must be installed. (See chapter 6 for details.) Depending on your model, your computer may incorporate the Bluetooth capability for short-range (about 10 meters) wireless communications between devices without requiring a cable connection. With Bluetooth, data can be transmitted through walls, pockets and briefcases as long as two devices are within range.
The status of the Bluetooth connection is indicated by the Bluetooth icon located in the system tray in the lower-right part of the screen. Status Icon Off ® On ® Connected ® (blue with red logo) (blue with white logo). (blue with green logo) You can use the Bluetooth Utility to configure Bluetooth connection settings and transfer files. Connecting to Another Bluetooth Device 1. Make sure that the target Bluetooth device is turned on, discoverable and within close range.
3. The Add New Connection Wizard window appears. Select Express Mode (Recommended), then click Next.
4. Select the device to connect to and click Next. 5. Depending on the type of Bluetooth device that you want to connect to, you will need to enter the pertinent information. For detailed information on using the Bluetooth Utility, see the Bluetooth Utility Help on your computer by clicking Help, then Contents and Index.
Using the 3G Feature (Optional) NOTE: To take advantage of the 3G feature, the 3G driver supplied with your computer must be installed. (See chapter 6 for details.) 3G is the third generation of mobile phone standards and technology, after 2G. It is based on the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) family of standards under the International Mobile Telecommunications programme, “IMT-2000”. Services include wide-area wireless voice telephony and broadband wireless data, all in a mobile environment.
3. Insert the SIM card into the holder. Make sure the beveled corner on the SIM card is facing towards the computer and that the golden contact area on the card is facing upwards. WARNING: Keep all SIM cards out of the reach of small children. For availability and information on using SIM card services, contact your SIM card vendor. This may be the service provider, network operator, or other vendor. NOTE: To remove the SIM card, push inward to release and slide the SIM card out of the slot.
Using the Fingerprint Sensor NOTE: To take advantage of the fingerprint sensor, the fingerprint driver supplied with your computer must be installed. (See chapter 6 for details.) To start using the fingerprint sensor: 1. Locate the fingerprint sensor. 2. Go to Start menu System Settings. All Programs VitaKey AC5031 System NOTE: You must first complete the System Wizard before you can utilize the VitaKey utlity. The following screen appears.
3. Click Next to continue and the following screen appears.
4. Select Create new user data file and click Next to continue. The following screen appears. 5. Enter the password twice and click Next to continue. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the System Wizard. NOTE: For an online Help information on using the VitaKey utility, you can go to Start menu All Programs VitaKey AC5031 Online Help.
Chapter 3 CHAPTER Managing Power Your computer operates either on external AC power or on internal battery power. This chapter tells you how you can effectively manage power. To maintain optimal battery performance, it is important that you use the battery in the proper way.
AC Adapter CAUTION: The AC adapter is designed for use with your computer only. Connecting the AC adapter to another device can damage the adapter. The AC power cord supplied with your computer is for use in the country where you purchased your computer. If you plan to go overseas with the computer, consult your dealer for the appropriate power cord. When you disconnect the AC adapter, disconnect from the electrical outlet first and then from the computer.
Battery Pack The battery pack is the internal power source for the computer. It is rechargeable using the AC adapter. The operating time of a fully charged battery pack depends on how you are using the computer. When your applications often access peripherals, you will experience a shorter operating time. NOTE: Care and maintenance information for the battery is provided in the “Battery Pack Guidelines” section in Chapter 7.
The charging times are as follows: Charging Time Battery Type Computer is Off Computer is On and in Idle State 3-cell (2600 mAH) 3 hours 3.5 hours 6-cell (5200 mAH) 4 hours 4.5 hours Second battery pack (in swappable bay) 3.5 hours 4 hours CAUTION: After the computer has been fully recharged, do not immediately disconnect and reconnect the AC adapter to charge it again. Doing so may damage the battery. NOTE: The battery level may automatically lessen due to the self-discharge process (0.
Checking the Battery Level NOTE: Any battery level indication is an estimated result. The actual operating time can be different from the estimated time, depending on how you are using the computer. By Operating System You can check the approximate battery level using the battery meter function of the operating system. To read the battery level, click the icon on the system tray. By Gas Gauge On the exterior side of the battery pack is a gas gauge for displaying the estimated battery charge.
If you often rely on battery power for a long period of time while traveling, you may consider the purchase of an additional battery pack from your dealer and keep it with you in a fully charged state as a backup. To replace the battery pack, follow these steps: 1. Make sure that the computer is not turned on or connected to AC power. 2. Place the computer upside down. 3. Slide the battery security lock outward to the unlock ( ( ). ) position 4.
5. Fit another battery pack into place ( ) and slide the battery security lock to the lock ( ) position ( ). Installing a Second Battery Pack (Optional) You can install a second battery pack to your computer for a longer operating time when AC power is not available. To install a second battery pack: 1. Make sure that system power is off. 2. Gently place the computer upside down.
3. Slide the swappable bay release lever outward to the unlock ( ) position ( ) and, while holding it in the unlock position, pull the optical drive off the computer ( ). 4. Slide the second battery pack all the way into the slot. Make sure to observe the correct orientation. The swappable bay security lock would slide to the lock ( ) position to secure the second battery pack.
Battery Low Signals and Actions The battery icon changes appearance to display the current state of the battery so that you can see how much charge remains (Windows default setting). When the battery charge is above 25 % the battery icon is green. When the battery charge reaches 25 % a yellow triangle with an exclamation point (!) appears above the green battery icon. When the charge reaches the low battery level a red circle with a white “X” appears ) above the green icon.
Power Management Your computer supports ACPI (Advanced Configuration and Power Interface) for power management. The power management feature allows you to reduce the power consumption for energy saving. With an ACPI-compliant operating system such as Windows, power supply to different computer components is controlled on an as-needed basis. This allows maximum power conservation and performance at the same time. In general, Windows’ power management works in this way: What... When...
