ASCENTIA TM P e r s o n a l N o t e b o o k M User's Manual ®
ASCENTIA TM P e r s o n a l N o t e b o o k M User's Manual ® 003754-001 A July 1997
754-1.bk : 3754fcc.fm Page i Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM First edition (July 1997) Copyright 1997 AST Research, Inc. All rights are reserved, including those to reproduce this book or parts thereof in any form without permission in writing from AST Research, Inc. AST Research periodically changes the information in this manual; changes are incorporated into new editions. AST Research reserves the right to change product specifications without notice. AST Research, Inc.
3754-1.bk : 3754fcc.fm Page ii Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM CAUTION Users should not attempt to make electrical ground connections themselves but should contact the appropriate electric inspection authority or electrician. WARRANTY AND REPAIR SERVICE IN CANADA: AST Canada, Inc. 255 Matheson Boulevard West Mississauga, Ontario, L5R 3G3 Telephone: 905-507-3278 Warning: Replace the battery with an AST battery part number 503182-004, contact your authorized AST reseller for a replacement.
3754-1.bk : 3754fcc.fm Page iii Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Signed Declaration of Conformity Documents Signed Declaration of Conformity documents for AST products are on file at the AST Ireland facility located at: National Technology Park Plassey Limerick Ireland This product contains a Class 1 laser product with a Class 1 laser source employing a laser diode that emits invisible laser radiation at 5mW. The wavelength of the laser radiation is 760- 800nm. CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT.
3754-1.bk : 3754-1.toc Page i Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Contents Using Your Documentation ........................................................... 1 Opening the Online Manual ................................................................. 1 Getting Around in the Online Manual .................................................. 2 Using Hypertext Links in the Online Manual ....................................... 2 Special Features of the User’s Manual ..............................................
3754-1.bk : 3754-1.toc Page ii Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Using the Touchpad ....................................................................... 19 Reading the System Status Lights ........................................... 21 Connecting Peripheral Devices ................................................. 23 Connecting the Floppy Drive to the Floppy Connector ...................... 25 Using the SmartBay ........................................................................
3754-1.bk : 3754-1.toc Page iii Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Using System Security .................................................................. 57 Creating a Password ......................................................................... 57 Deleting a Password ......................................................................... 58 Requiring a Password When the Computer Starts ............................ 58 Locking the Hard Drive Boot Sector ...............................................
3754-1.bk : 3754-1.toc Page iv Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Troubleshooting ............................................................................... 80 Operating Problems .......................................................................... 80 Infrared Problems .............................................................................. 83 Using Options ................................................................................... 84 AC Adapter ......................................
3754-1.bk : 3754-1.fm Page 1 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Using Your Documentation Congratulations on your purchase of an AST®Ascentia™ M Series computer! Whether you are new to using a portable computer or are an experienced user, your Ascentia M Series documentation can help you get the most from your computer. To get up and running quickly, see your Ascentia M Series Quick Start. When you need more in-depth information, turn to your Ascentia M Series User’s Manual.
3754-1.bk : 3754-1.fm Page 2 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Getting Around in the Online Manual Go to the Acrobat Reader Help for tips on using the Reader toolbar buttons to get around in the online manual. To open the Help: 1. Click Help on the Acrobat Reader menu bar. 2. Click Reader Online Guide. Using Hypertext Links in the Online Manual Hypertext links are built into the online manual to take you quickly from one page of the manual to another.
3754-1.bk : 3754-1.fm Page 3 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Special Features of the User’s Manual Three types of messages with icons appear in the manual: A note informs you of special circumstances. A caution warns you of possible damage to equipment. A warning indicates the possibility of personal injury. Keys that you need to press to perform certain functions are shown in the manual enclosed in angle brackets. For example, indicates the control key (Ctrl on the computer’s keyboard).
3754-1.bk : 3754-1.fm Page 4 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Using the Software User Documentation Your computer shipped from the factory with several software programs installed. The software may include its own online or printed documentation. Refer to the documentation or the Help options in the software for more information. Visiting the AST Web Site If you have an internet connection, you can visit the AST Web site at: http://www.ast.
3754-1.bk : 3754-1.fm Page 5 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Introducing Your Computer Your Ascentia M computer is a lightweight portable computer that includes features to meet your computing needs at home or on the road. Figures 1 through 3 show you the features of your computer.
3754-1.bk : 3754-1.fm Page 6 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM PS/2™ mouse and keyboard port Volume control Docking connector Parallel port Serial port Audio-line-out jack Microphone and audio-line-in jack USB port Video port Floppy connector Infrared port PC Card compartment Figure 2. Back View of Computer Memory module compartment Business card holder SmartBay latch Label showing part number and serial number Figure 3.
3754-1.bk : 3754-1.fm Page 7 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Using Your Computer for the First Time This section gives you detailed information on using your computer for the first time. Attaching the AC Adapter Your computer runs on power from the battery that came installed in the computer or from an electrical outlet. The first time that you use your computer, fully charge the battery by attaching the AC adapter to the computer and to an electrical outlet.
3754-1.bk : 3754-1.fm Page 8 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Adapter plug Battery charge light Power cord AC adapter Figure 4. Connecting the AC Adapter The battery starts charging as soon as you plug the AC adapter into an electrical outlet. The battery charges faster if the computer is turned off during charging. If the battery is fully depleted and the computer is turned off, the battery charges in about 3 hours. If the computer is turned on, the battery charges in about 5 hours.
3754-1.bk : 3754-1.fm Page 9 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Turning On the Computer To turn on the computer’s power for the first time: 1. Slide the LCD cover latch to the right and hold it. 2. Lift up the LCD cover. 3. Press and then release the power button (Figure 5). The power light is on when the computer’s power is on. Power button Power light Figure 5.
3754-1.bk : 3754-1.fm Page 10 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Adjusting the LCD Display You may wish to adjust the LCD display when you begin using your computer. A TFT LCD does not require adjustment for contrast because the contrast is set to remain at maximum. You can adjust both the brightness and contrast on a DS-STN LCD. To adjust the brightness of the LCD: • Press to increase the display brightness. • Press to decrease the display brightness.
3754-1.bk : 3754-1.fm Page 11 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Turning Off Your Computer If your operating system is Windows 95, turn off your computer by performing the shutdown procedure described in this section. Otherwise, you may lose data. To turn off the computer in Windows 95: 1. Click the Start button on the taskbar. A pop-up menu appears. 2. Click Shut Down. 3. Select Shut down the computer? 4. Click the Yes button. The computer turns off.
3754-1.bk : 3754-1.fm Page 12 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM You can also perform a soft boot by saving your files and pressing . You can perform a cold (or hard) boot by pressing the power button to turn the computer off, waiting five seconds, and then pressing the power button to turn the computer on. Tips for Using Your Computer The following information helps you avoid potential problems as you use your computer: Do not try to disassemble your computer.
3754-1.bk : 3754-1.fm Page 13 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM • Do not remove the memory-module compartment door, or try to install a memory module when the computer is on. (See Figure 3 for the location of the door.) (For information on installing memory modules, see “Memory Modules” on page 88.) • Set up your computer work area to avoid physical strain. Sit with your back straight and supported by your chair.
3754-1.bk : 3754-1.fm Page 14 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Handling Spills Do not spill anything on your computer. The best way to avoid spills is to avoid eating and drinking around your computer. If you do spill something on your computer, turn off your computer, unplug it immediately, and do the following: • If you spill liquid on the keyboard, drain as much of the liquid from the keyboard as possible. Be careful not to let the liquid drip onto the LCD panel.
3754-1.bk : 3754-1.fm Page 15 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Using the Keyboard Your computer has an 87/88-key keyboard (Figure 6). By pressing designated key combinations, you can have access to all the key functions of a full-sized keyboard. Function keys key Windows key Typewriter keys Windows keys Cursor-control keys Figure 6.
3754-1.bk : 3754-1.fm Page 16 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM The keys on the keyboard can be grouped into the following categories: • Full-sized typewriter keys are arranged like a standard typewriter keyboard and are used for text entry. • Function keys, when pressed together with the key, enable special functions. • Cursor control keys move the cursor. They may perform other functions, depending on your software. • Windows keys open Windows menus and perform other special functions.
3754-1.bk : 3754-1.fm Page 17 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM While the numeric functions are enabled, you can temporarily return a key to its normal function by pressing and the key. For example to type the letter m, press . To turn the numeric keypad off, press again. The Num Lock light turns off. Using Special Function Keys The key activates special functions when it is pressed in combination with another key. Table 1 shows the special key combinations. Table 1.
3754-1.bk : 3754-1.fm Page 18 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Gauge: Displays the battery gauge in the upper-right corner of your screen. This key combination functions only when the computer is run from the battery. To disable or enable the power-management settings in System Setup, press while the gauge is displayed. An icon of a dripping water faucet indicates that power management is enabled.
3754-1.bk : 3754-1.fm Page 19 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Using the Touchpad Your computer is equipped with the SmartPoint™ touchpad, which is an integrated-pointing device that is used to perform standard mouse functions (Figure 8). The touchpad is an advanced and reliable pointing device that works with a touch of your finger. Touchpad Mouse buttons Figure 8. Touchpad To use the touchpad: • Place your finger on the pad and move your finger in the direction you want the cursor to move.
3754-1.bk : 3754-1.fm Page 20 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM You can also use the buttons at the bottom of the touchpad in the same way you use standard mouse buttons. You can adjust the way the touchpad operates through the Synaptics TouchPad software. To open the software, click on the icon showing a touchpad that is located in the right corner of the Windows taskbar. See the software’s Help for more information.
3754-1.bk : 3754-2.fm Page 21 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Reading the System Status Lights System Status lights show the status of computer functions. The lights appear on the left edge of the computer (Figure 9). Table 2 describes the meaning of the lights. Figure 9.
3754-1.bk : 3754-2.fm Page 22 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Table 2. System Status Lights Icon Function of Light Power light: Light is on when the computer’s power is on. The light blinks once every second when the battery is low. The light blinks once every three seconds when the system is in rest mode. Num Lock light: Light is on when the embedded numeric keypad is activated. See “Using the Numeric Keypad” on page 16 for a description of the keypad.
3754-1.bk : 3754-2.fm Page 23 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Connecting Peripheral Devices The connectors on your computer enable you to attach peripheral devices to the computer (Figure 10). Turn off your computer before you connect a peripheral device. Connecting a peripheral device with your computer turned on may seriously damage the device or your computer.
3754-1.bk : 3754-2.fm Page 24 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Table 3. Connecting Peripheral Devices Icon Connector Audio-line-out jack: Connect stereo headphones or speakers to this jack. Speakers connected to this jack override the onboard speakers. Microphone and audio-line-in jack: Connect an external microphone or an external audio source to this jack. A microphone connected to this jack overrides the internal microphone. USB port: Connect USB devices to this port.
3754-1.bk : 3754-2.fm Page 25 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Connecting the Floppy Drive to the Floppy Connector Some Ascentia M computers ship from the factory with both a floppy drive and a CD-ROM drive included. These systems also ship with a floppy cable. Turn off your computer before you install or remove devices from the SmartBay or connect or disconnect the floppy cable and drive. To use the floppy drive and the CD-ROM drive at the same time, install the CD-ROM drive in the SmartBay.
3754-1.bk : 3754-2.fm Page 26 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM The floppy cable must be inserted as shown in Figure 11. To insert the cable correctly, make sure that • The arrows printed on the cable connectors are both facing upward. • The cable bead is close to the computer, not the floppy drive. If the cable does not fit easily, do not force it. Make sure you have the correct end of the cable going to the computer and to the floppy drive. To remove the cable: 1.
3754-1.bk : 3754-2.fm Page 27 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Using the SmartBay Your computer includes the SmartBay™, a peripheral bay that can hold one of the following devices: • Floppy drive: shipped installed in your computer. • CD-ROM drive: shipped with some Ascentia M computers. • Optional secondary hard drive: available as an option for your computer. Make sure that the computer’s power is off before you remove or install a device in the SmartBay. To remove a device from the SmartBay: 1.
54-1.bk : 3754-2.fm Page 28 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM To install a device in the SmartBay: 1. Turn the computer’s power off. 2. Place the device into the bay. 3. Push the device in until it is flush with the chassis. 4. Push down on the SmartBay latch until the latch snaps into place. Your computer’s operating system automatically recognizes the device in the SmartBay and configures your computer accordingly.
3754-1.bk : 3754-2.fm Page 29 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Using the Floppy Drive The computer comes with a removable 1.44-MB, 3.5-inch, highdensity floppy drive, which can read, write to, and format the following disks: • A high-density, 3.5-inch disk, which stores 1.44 MB of data. • A double-density, 3.5-inch disk, which stores 720 KB of data. The floppy drive in your portable computer is smaller but more power-efficient than a floppy drive in a desktop computer.
3754-1.bk : 3754-2.fm Page 30 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM To remove a floppy disk, press the eject button on the floppy drive. The drive light on the computer is amber when the computer writes to or reads from a floppy disk. Do not remove a disk when this light is on. To protect the data on your floppy disks, follow these guidelines: • Keep disks away from excessive heat, direct sunlight, and liquids. • Keep magnets and any device that contains a magnet (like the telephone) away from your disks.
3754-1.bk : 3754-2.fm Page 31 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Using the CD-ROM Drive Some Ascentia M computers ship from the factory with a CD-ROM drive included. The CD-ROM drive fits into the computer’s SmartBay. For information on installing the CD-ROM drive, see “Using the SmartBay” on page 27. Compact discs are designed so that you can easily insert one into the computer when you need it, and then remove it: 1. Press the button on the CD-ROM drive, and the tray slides out.
3754-1.bk : 3754-2.fm Page 32 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM The name of the CD-ROM drive is the letter following the letter assigned to your last hard drive. For instance, if you have one hard drive with only one hard drive partition, the hard drive is drive C and the CD-ROM drive is drive D. If necessary, you can use the emergency eject button to open the CD-ROM drive.
3754-1.bk : 3754-2.fm Page 33 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM To remove the CD: 1. Click the CD Player button on the Windows taskbar to open the CD Player window (Figure 15). Play Stop Eject Figure 15. CD Player Window 2. Click the Stop button in the CD Player Window. 3. Click the Eject button on the CD Player window or press the button on your CD-ROM drive. The drive tray opens and you can remove the disc from the CD-ROM drive.
3754-1.bk : 3754-2.fm Page 34 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Using the Hard Drive Your computer includes a removable IDE hard drive. The IDE hard drive can store the data and programs your computer uses. The drive plugs into a connector on the system board. Although the storage capacity of hard drives varies according to model, any hard drive holds much more than a floppy disk does. Also, the computer reads and works with a hard drive more rapidly than with a floppy disk.
3754-1.bk : 3754-2.fm Page 35 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Removing the Hard Drive To prevent loss of data and damage to the disk, do not remove the hard drive while the computer’s power is on and do not drop or jar the hard drive. To remove the hard drive from the computer: 1. If you are installing a new hard drive, backup the application and data files on the old hard drive before removing it from the computer.
3754-1.bk : 3754-2.fm Page 36 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Installing a Hard Drive To install a hard drive: 1. Remove the old hard drive from the computer as described in the previous section. 2. Slide the new drive into the hard drive compartment. Make sure the drive is pushed back as far as it will go. 3. Install the screw that holds the hard drive in place. 4. If you intend to use save to disk mode, see “Creating a Save to Disk Partition” on page 64. 5. Format your drive and reinstall your files.
3754-1.bk : 3754-2.fm Page 37 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Using the Battery Your computer uses a rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack for power when the AC adapter is not attached to an electrical outlet. Charging the Battery Your computer’s battery starts charging automatically when you connect the AC adapter to the computer. If the computer is off, the battery charges faster than if the computer’s power is on.
3754-1.bk : 3754-2.fm Page 38 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM All batteries eventually wear out and lose the ability to hold a charge. You may need to replace your battery pack after a year of average usage. Safely Using the AC Adapter and Batteries Follow these guidelines to safely use the AC adapter and batteries: • Turn your equipment off and unplug the AC adapter if you accidentally: – Expose the equipment to liquid. – Drop, jar, or damage the computer.
3754-1.bk : 3754-2.fm Page 39 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM 2. Close the LCD panel, and turn the computer over so that the bottom of the unit faces up. 3. Slide the battery compartment cover straight up and off the computer (Figure 17). Tab Bottom of computer Tab Figure 17. Removing the Battery Pack 4. Grasp the plastic tab on the battery and pull the battery out of the compartment. To reinstall the battery pack: 1. Turn the computer’s power off. 2.
3754-1.bk : 3754-2.fm Page 40 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Monitoring the Battery Charge Battery life is affected by factors such as the power-management settings in System Setup, the applications you use, and the brightness and contrast settings of the LCD. Under normal usage, the battery charge lasts approximately 2 hours. Battery life estimates are subject to variation. The actual life of your battery may be less than the estimates given in the documentation.
3754-1.bk : 3754-2.fm Page 41 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM The gauge has three sections: • The top section shows you whether or not power management is turned on. An icon of a water faucet that is dripping water indicates that power management is enabled and the computer is using minimum battery power. An icon of a water faucet with a full stream of water indicates that power management is turned off and the computer is using maximum battery power.
3754-1.bk : 3754-2.fm Page 42 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Battery Warnings Your computer gives you the following low-battery warnings (Table 4). Table 4. Battery Warnings Warnings Condition Action to Take The computer beeps 5 times (low-pitched beeps). In Windows 95, a battery-low warning appears on screen. Battery low: The battery charge is about 10 percent. Approximately 5–10 minutes of battery charge is left. Save your work.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 43 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Using System Setup The System Setup program enables you to configure your computer hardware and set security and power-savings options. The settings you choose are stored in batterymaintained memory (CMOS memory) that saves the information even when the computer’s power is turned off. When your computer is turned back on, your computer is configured with the values found in this memory.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 44 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Starting System Setup To start System Setup, turn on your computer and then press when prompted. The System Setup screen appears. The top of the System Setup screen has a menu bar with the selections listed in Table 5. Table 5. System Setup Menus Menu Function Main Changes the basic system configuration. Advanced Configures advanced features on your computer.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 45 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Moves the cursor forward through the cells for a highlighted field. If the field has only one cell, the key moves the cursor down to the next field. Moves the cursor backward through the cells for a highlighted field. If the field has only one cell, the key combination moves the cursor up to the previous field. Moves the cursor to the field at the top of the window.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 46 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Press to display the first page, or press to go to the last page. To exit the help window, press or . If your computer will not boot after you have changed settings in System Setup and exited the program, reboot and press to reenter System Setup. Once in System Setup, you can try to change the values that caused your computer boot to fail. If the problem persists, press to load the default values.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 47 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM To configure a replacement or upgrade hard drive, move the cursor to select the IDE Adapter 0 field in the System Setup Main menu, and then press the key. The IDE Adapter submenu appears. Normally, you can use the Autotype Fixed Disk field in the submenu to automatically set the values for the other fields in the submenu.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 48 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM user documentation or look on the drive to obtain this information. If no drive is installed or if you are removing a drive and not replacing it, select None. Cylinders: Configures the number of cylinders for the hard drive. Refer to your drive’s user documentation or look on the drive to obtain this information. Before you can make changes to this field, the Type field must be set to User.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 49 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Ultra DMA Transfer Mode: Enables the hard drive to use ultra DMA transfer mode to transfer data between the drive and system memory. The default setting is Disabled. Transfer Mode: Selects the method for transferring data between the hard drive and system memory. Refer to your drive’s user documentation to specify the correct option for this field.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 50 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM System Memory: Displays the amount of conventional memory detected by your computer during startup. This field is for reference only. Extended Memory: Displays the amount of extended memory detected by your computer during startup. This field is for reference only. Advanced Menu Selecting Advanced from the menu bar displays the Advanced menu.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 51 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM COM2 Mode: Sets the mode for the COM 2 port. You can use the COM2 port for the internal infrared device. Options are FIR (fast infrared) (default) and Disabled. If you choose the option FIR, you can set an additional field, FIR Channel, to DMA 0, DMA 1, or DMA 3 (default). LPT port: Sets the base address and IRQ line for the parallel port.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 52 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Plug & Play O/S: Enables you to set the parameters for peripheral ports. Set this field to No if your computer uses an operating system that is not plug and play compliant, such as Windows NT. With an operating system that is not plug and play compliant, you manually change the settings for the COM1, COM2, and LPT ports. The BIOS will recognize the new settings.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 53 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM System backup reminder: Enables the computer to prompt you to backup your files. The prompt appears each time you start your computer or reboot until you respond with Y (yes). The options for this field are • Daily: Every day when you start your computer for the first time, the prompt appears. • Weekly: When you start your computer for the first time each week (after Sunday), the prompt appears.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 54 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM field to Turbo, the microprocessor and hard drive run at full speed, unless affected by other power-savings settings. If you set this field to Non-Turbo, the microprocessor and the hard drive run at slow speed, unless there is user input or device activity. Standby Timeout: Sets the period of computer inactivity (no user input or device activity) that must pass before your computer automatically goes into standby mode.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 55 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Resume On Time: Enables the computer to resume operation from rest mode at a scheduled time. The computer will resume only if the Rest Mode field is set to Power On Suspend, not Save To Disk. If you set this field to On, you must set the Resume Time field as well. The default setting is Off. Resume Time: Specifies the time for your computer to automatically resume from rest mode.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 56 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Exit Menu Select Exit from the menu bar to display the Exit menu. Pressing does not exit this menu. You must select one of the options from this menu or a menu bar item to exit this menu. Discard Changes & Exit: Exits System Setup without saving your changes. When you select this item and press , a message appears asking you if you want to save your changes. Choose No to leave the program without saving your changes.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 57 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Using System Security This section describes the security options provided with your computer. Creating a Password The computer password prevents unauthorized access to the computer. You can set security fields in System Setup so that a password is needed at startup or to access the hard disk boot sector. If you have set a password, you must enter it to open System Setup. To create a password: 1. At startup, press to open System Setup. 2.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 58 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Deleting a Password To delete the password: 1. At startup, press to open System Setup. 2. Type your password when prompted and press . 3. Use the key to select the Security menu. 4. Press at the Set Password field. The Set Password dialog box appears. 5. Press Do not type anything. The computer prompts you to reenter the password. 6. Press Do not type anything.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 59 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Locking the Hard Drive Boot Sector After you set a password, you can lock the hard drive boot sector to protect against viruses or alterations. To lock the hard drive boot sector, select the option Write protect in the Fixed disk boot sector field in System Setup. For more information about the Fixed disk boot sector field, see “Security Menu” on page 52.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 60 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Using Power Management Options Your computer includes power-management options that can help the battery charge last longer and extend the life of the battery, LCD panel, and other components. Power-management options slow down or shut off system components when the components are not being used. Power management slows down system performance. Your computer runs fastest with the AC adapter attached, when no power management is in effect.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 61 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Standby Mode The Standby Timeout field in System Setup enables you to specify the time period that the computer can remain idle (no user input or disk activity) before the computer enters standby mode. You can disable this option by selecting Off, or you can specify a Standby Timeout delay time of from 1 to 16 minutes. In standby mode, the system and video memory and the video controller slow down.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 62 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM some power while in this mode. If you leave your computer in power on suspend for several days without the AC adapter attached, the computer’s battery will discharge. • Save To Disk: This mode provides the greatest powersaving capabilities by essentially turning off your computer. In this mode, all system logic (except for your computer wakeup circuitry and battery charger) is turned off.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 63 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM • Do not try to resume to full-power mode using battery power if the battery charge is low. If the battery charge is too low, the system may not be able to resume fully. Plug in the AC adapter if your computer cannot resume normal operation because of a low battery charge.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 64 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Creating a Save to Disk Partition The hard drive shipped in your computer has a save to disk partition in which data from system and video memory is stored during save to disk mode. The partition is the maximum size needed for your computer and supports system memory of 128 MB. You can add memory modules to your computer without changing the size of the partition.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 65 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM After you complete the above procedures, use PHDISK to create a save to disk partition: 1. Turn off the computer, remove your old hard drive, and insert the new one into your computer. (See “Using the Hard Drive” on page 34 for instructions.) 2. If you have a CD-ROM drive, install the CD-ROM drive in the SmartBay and attach the floppy drive to the external floppy connector.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 66 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM 10. Do one of the following to reinstall your applications: • If you have a CD-ROM drive, insert your Restore CD in the CD-ROM drive and start the computer. Follow the directions included with the restore CD to restore your operating system and factoryinstalled programs. • If you do not have a CD-ROM drive, restore your applications from the backup floppy disks you created. 11. Reinstall any data files that you backed up.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 67 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Changing the Video Configuration Your computer includes either a DS-STN screen or a TFT screen. DS-STN screens use less energy than TFT screens but are not as sharp or bright. TFT screens, or active-matrix displays, consume more power but create sharper and brighter images. The capabilities of the screen plus the video drivers installed on the computer determine the quality of the image your LCD can display.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 68 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Table 7 lists the basic video mode capabilities and maximum colors supported by your computer. Table 7. Video Driver Capabilities Software Drivers Resolution Supported Number of Colors Windows 95 640x480, 800x600, 1024x768, 1280x1024 640x480, 800x600,1024x768 640x480, 800x600 256 65,536 16.8 million Windows NT® 640x480, 800x600, 1024x768, 1280x1024 640x480, 800x600, 1024x768 640x480, 800x600 256 65,536 16.8 million Windows v3.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 69 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM 4. Double-click the Display icon. The Display Properties window appears. 5. Click the Settings tab. The Settings screen appears. 6. Click the Advanced Properties button. The Advanced Properties screen appears. 7. Click the Monitor tab. 8. Click the Change button. The Select Device screen appears. 9. Select a manufacturer and model setting that matches your external monitor.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 70 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Working with PC Cards By installing PC Cards, you can add functions to your portable computer similar to those found on add-in boards for desktop computers. Available PC Cards include: • Input/output, such as modem, network, pager, video capture, and SCSI cards. • Storage, such as hard drive cards. • Combo cards, such as a combination modem and network card.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 71 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM • Keep dust, magnets, and static electricity away from PC Cards. • When a card is not in use, carry it in its protective carrying case. • Some PC Cards include cables that extend from the back of the cards. Be careful not to bend or put excessive strain on these cables. Using PC Cards You can install PC Cards while the computer is on. To insert a PC Card into a slot: 1. Open the slot door. 2.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 72 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM configuring a PC Card in Windows 95, see the index entry PC card in the Windows Help. Windows 95 also handles power management for PC Cards. To remove a PC Card from your computer if your operating system is Windows 95: Use the following procedures to remove PC Cards, or you may lose data that is being stored to a card. 1. Click the PC Card indicator on the taskbar. 2.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 73 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Watching Video The SoftPEG™ MPEG software on your computer enables you to run full-motion video movies or games that are formatted under MPEG-1, Video CD, and CD-I standards. To start a video compact disc: 1. Insert a compact disc into the CD-ROM drive. (See “Using the CD-ROM Drive” on page 31 for more information.) 2. Open the SoftPEG player: a. Click the Start button on the taskbar. b. Select Programs. c. Select SoftPEG Player. d.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 74 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM The SoftPEG controller appears (Figure 20). Figure 20. SoftPEG Controller 3. Press the Load button (button 4 in Figure 20) on the controller. The video begins to play. 4. Use the other buttons on the controller as needed while watching the video. Table 8 lists the buttons that are numbered in Figure 20 and gives their functions.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 75 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Table 8. SoftPEG Controller Buttons Number in Figure Function of Button 1 Power: Exits the program. 2 Eject: Ejects the compact disc. 3 Iconize: Reduces the program to an icon. 4 Load: Starts the video. 5 Play controls: Manipulate the video. The buttons include Stop, Play, Pause, Fast Forward, and Fast Backward. 6 Return: Returns to the previous menu when running Interactive Video CD (version 2.0).
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 76 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Updating the System BIOS Your computer uses flash BIOS, which enables you to update the BIOS easily from a floppy disk. If AST releases a BIOS update for your computer, copy the disk image to your hard drive from • The AST Online! BBS: See the customer service reference that accompanied your computer for information on contacting the BBS. • The AST Web site: http://www.ast.com/support/files.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 77 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM To perform the BIOS update: 1. Attach the AC adapter to your computer, plug the adapter into an electrical outlet, and turn on the computer. 2. Copy the BIOS disk image from the BBS or the AST Web site onto your computer’s hard drive. 3. Insert a formatted floppy disk in the floppy drive. 4. Click the Start button on the Windows taskbar and click Run. 5. Type the path to the extract utility.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 78 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM About Drivers and System Resources This section gives you basic information about drivers and system IRQs. Drivers A driver is a program that enables the operating system to work with a hardware device. Your computer includes drivers for the audio, video, infrared, touchpad, keyboard, CD-ROM drive, hard drive, floppy drive, and PC Card controller. When you add a device to your computer, such as a printer, you install a driver for that device.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 79 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM The IRQs that are used by your computer are listed in Table 9. Table 9.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 80 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Troubleshooting If you ever have difficulty running your computer, follow these steps: 1. Consult the following sections for advice on how to handle system problems. 2. If you have an internet connection, visit the AST Web site: http://www.ast.com Updates on your system and other AST products are periodically added to the Web site. 3.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 81 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM the External Cache setting in the Memory Cache field of System Setup. Nothing appears on the LCD panel when you turn on the computer. Adjust the brightness and contrast on an DS-STN LCD or the brightness on a TFT LCD. Are you using an external monitor? If so, press to return to the LCD panel. Nothing appears on the external monitor when you switch the display to it.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 82 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Certain software programs “hang” during operations when there is no interaction with the keyboard or peripheral devices. Your computer may be in standby or rest mode. Tap the touchpad to resume from standby or press the power button to resume from rest. A serial or parallel device attached to a serial or parallel port on the rear panel of the system unit does not work properly. Check the attached device.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 83 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Infrared Problems If you are unable to transfer files with the infrared port, check the following: • The receiving device must be positioned properly. There must be no more than three feet of distance between the computer’s infrared port and the receiving infrared device. • The sending and receiving devices need to be on the same level vertically. Place them on the same table if possible.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 84 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Using Options You can order the following options for your Ascentia M computer from your authorized AST reseller: • An extra AC adapter. • An auto/airline adapter that enables you to charge the computer’s battery and operate the computer while in an automobile or an airplane. • An extra battery pack. • An upgraded hard drive. Optional hard drives are available to fit in the hard drive compartment or the SmartBay.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 85 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Auto/Airline Adapter The auto/airline adapter enables you to power your computer and charge the computer battery • In an automobile, through the +12 volt cigarette lighter socket. • In an airplane that is equipped with a portable computer connector (Figure 21). Cap Top of adapter casing Light Release button Figure 21. Auto/Airline Adapter Portable computer connectors on airplanes differ.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 86 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Contact your airline for information on using an airline adapter on your flight. To use the adapter: 1. Plug the adapter cable into the AC adapter connector on the computer. 2. Connect the adapter to the cigarette lighter socket or the portable computer connector on the airplane. The light on the adapter is green when the adapter is working properly.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 87 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM When you connect the adapter to the cigarette lighter or the airplane connector, the battery starts charging immediately. To prevent loss of data and possible damage to the computer, unplug the auto/airline adapter when starting and stopping the automobile engine. Battery Pack You can order another lithium-ion battery pack for your computer. See “Using the Battery” on page 37 for information on the battery.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 88 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Memory Modules You can increase system memory by installing optional memory modules. You can install 8, 16, 32, or 64 MB modules. Install memory modules in any combination of sizes. To avoid possible system problems, use only AST-approved memory modules in your computer. Before You Install Memory To prevent personal injury and damage to the equipment, follow the precautions listed here before installing a memory module.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 89 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Figure 22. Removing the Memory Module Compartment Door 3. Grasp the edge of the door and pull the door off the chassis. 4. Remove installed modules if necessary: When removing modules, pull on the plastic portion of the connector slots tabs only. Do not pull on the metal part of the tabs, or you may damage the tabs. a. Pull the tabs on the connector slot outward slightly, until the edge of the memory module pops up (Figure 23).
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 90 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Tabs Figure 23. Removing a Memory Module b. Hold the memory module by the edges and pull it forward out of the compartment. 5. Align the connector on the memory module with the connector of the slot. 6. Push the memory module into the slot at a slight angle until the connectors are fully engaged (Figure 24). 7. Push down on the edge of the memory module until the module snaps into place.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 91 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Figure 24. Installing a Memory Module 8. Align the memory module compartment door with the compartment and push the door down until it snaps into place. 9. Reinstall the screw you removed in step 2. 10. Turn on the computer and perform a complete POST to check the memory integrity.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 92 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Battery Cradle The external battery cradle enables you to charge the computer battery outside of the computer. To charge a battery in the battery cradle: 1. Insert the battery into the cradle, contact end first (Figure 27): Figure 25. Battery Cradle 2. Attach the computer AC adapter to the connector at the back of the cradle, and plug the other end of the adapter into a grounded electrical outlet.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 93 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Do not leave the battery cradle plugged into an electrical outlet for a long time if the battery cradle will not be used. Also do not store batteries in the battery cradle for a long time. Otherwise the battery or the battery cradle may be damaged. External Numeric Keypad The external numeric keypad has the same features as the integrated keypad. The external keypad plugs into the PS/2 mouse and keyboard port.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 94 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Specifications Table 10 gives the specifications for your computer. Table 10. System Specifications Dimension System with 12.1 DS-STN LCD Width 12.2 in (30.9 cm) Height 1.7 in (4.2 cm) Length 9.5 in (24.1 cm) Weight (with floppy drive and battery installed) 6.4 lb (2,920 g) LCD viewing area (12.1 DS-STN) 9.8 x 7.4 in (250.0 x 187.0 mm) System with 12.1 TFT LCD Width 12.2 in (30.9 cm) Height 1.7 in (4.2 cm) Length 9.5 in (24.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 95 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Relative humidity (noncondensing), storage 15–95% Altitude, operating 0 to 8,000 ft (0 to 2,348 m) Altitude, storage 0 to 40,000 ft (0 to 12,192 m) Shock, operating 10 G for 11 ms half sine Shock, nonoperating 60 G for 11 ms half sine Lithium-Ion Battery Weight 0.925 lb (420 g) Nominal open circuit voltage 10.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 96 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Abbreviations Your Ascentia M documentation uses the following abbreviations: A . . . . . . . . . . Amperes AC . . . . . . . . Alternating current APM. . . . . . . Advanced Power Management ATA . . . . . . . AT attachment (refers to the hard-drive interface in an AT-compatible computer) BBS . . . . . . . Bulletin board system BIOS . . . . . . Basic input/output system C . . . . . . . . . . Centigrade CD . . . . . . . . Compact disc CD-ROM . .
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 97 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM hr . . . . . . . . . hour Hz. . . . . . . . . Hertz IDE. . . . . . . . Integrated drive electronics in . . . . . . . . . Inches I/O . . . . . . . . Input/Output IrDA. . . . . . . Infrared Data Association IRQ . . . . . . . Interrupt request line Kb/sec . . . . . Kilobits per second KB . . . . . . . . Kilobytes kg . . . . . . . . . Kilograms LAN . . . . . . . Local-area network lbs. . . . . . . . . Pounds LBA . . . . . . .
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 98 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM SVGA . . . . . Super video graphics array TFT. . . . . . . . Thin-film transistor USB . . . . . . . Universal serial bus V . . . . . . . . . . Volt VAC . . . . . . . Voltage alternating current VCC . . . . . . . Voltage collector current VDC. . . . . . . Voltage direct current VGA. . . . . . . Video graphics array whr. . . . . . . . Watt hour XGA . . . . . . .
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 99 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Glossary AC adapter The AC (or alternating current) adapter regulates current coming into your computer from the wall outlet. The current at the wall outlet is alternating current and needs to be changed by the adapter to DC (direct current) before your computer can use it for power. BIOS BIOS stands for basic input/output system. The BIOS is software (often called firmware) that is independent of any operating system.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 100 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM average time required for the microprocessor to get the data it needs from the main memory by storing recently accessed data in the cache. CardBus CardBus technology enables the computer to use 32-bit PC Cards. Hardware in the computer and the Windows 95 operating system provide support for the 32-bit cards. The voltage of 32-bit cards (3.3 volts) is lower than that of 16-bit cards (5 volts).
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 101 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM A cache is a buffer for transferring disk sectors in and out of RAM. Data stored in a disk cache is a copy of data already stored on the physical disk. DMA (direct memory access) A method of transferring data from a device to memory without having the data pass through the microprocessor. Using DMA can speed up system performance. DS-STN (Dual-scan super twist nematic) LCD A DS-STN LCD uses a scanning matrix to control image pixels.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 102 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM services. The number of IRQs is limited by industry standards. LCD (liquid-crystal display) The LCD screen on your computer differs from the display screen of a desktop monitor. Most desktop monitors use CRT (cathode-ray tube) displays, which work by moving an electron beam across phosphor dots on the back of the screen. The phosphor dots light up to show the image. LCDs use a liquid-crystal solution between two sheets of polarizing material.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 103 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM though they are connected. An LCD screen displays thousands or millions of pixels. Plug and Play A plug and play operating system automatically configures computer components to work with your system. With this type of operating system, you normally do not need to set jumpers on devices or set memory addresses or IRQs. POST POST stands for power-on self-test. POST is a test performed by the computer whenever you turn on the power.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 104 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Sector Also known as disk sector. The portion of a track that is numbered and can hold a specified number of characters (usually 512 KB). Shadow RAM A write-protected area of RAM that contains a copy of the BIOS. As the computer boots, the BIOS is copied from its permanent location in ROM to RAM. The BIOS can be executed much faster in RAM than in ROM. The BIOS remains in shadow RAM until you turn off the computer.
3754-1.bk : 3754-3.fm Page 105 Wednesday, July 30, 1997 2:33 PM Recording the Computer Hardware Configuration In the spaces provided, write the System Setup program settings. If your computer ever loses configuration information, you can enter the information from this section into System Setup to restore it. MAIN MENU Diskette A: Not Installed 1.
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