Installing a Device in the NEC Modular Bay Slot Use the following steps to install a device in the NEC Modular Bay slot. 1. Use the Phoenix BaySwap utility or power off the system. 2. Remove the Modular Bay device or weight-saving module from the Modular Bay slot. 3. Align the device in the NEC Modular Bay slot and push it in until it fits securely into the bay. Make sure the latch secures the device. 4. Press the Power button to power on or resume operation.
5. Grasp the edge of the NEC VersaBay IV device and pull the device out of the system. Removing a device from the VersaBay IV slot Always install the weight-saving module that ships with your system in the VersaBay IV slot if no VersaBay IV device is installed in the slot. See “Installing a Device in the NEC VersaBay IV Slot” for instructions on installing the module. Installing a Device in the NEC VersaBay IV Slot Use the following steps to install a device in the NEC VersaBay IV slot. 1.
Inserting a device into the NEC VersaBay IV slot 4. Turn the system over and open the LCD panel. 5. Press the Power button to power on or resume operation. Variable-Speed CD-ROM Drive Your NEC Versa notebook might ship with a 24X maximum/12X minimum variablespeed CD-ROM drive. The CD-ROM drive is assigned an available drive letter. Use the CD-ROM drive to load and start programs from a compact disc (CD) or to play your audio CDs.
CD-ROM drive features A – CD-ROM Drive B – CD-ROM Drive Status LED C – Emergency Eject Hole D – Disc Eject Button CD Loading To insert a CD into the CD-ROM drive, follow these steps. 1. With system power on, press the Eject button. The CD tray emerges a short way out of the drive door. 2. Gently pull the tray out until you can easily position a disc in the tray. 3. Put your CD, printed side up, into the circular impression in the tray. 4. Push the CD tray in until it clicks shut.
Avoid using benzene, paint thinner, record cleaner, static repellent, or any other chemical on the disc. Chemicals and cleaners can damage the disc. Changing the Auto Play Setting Your system’s shipping configuration may not allow a CD to automatically play upon insertion. Although this feature makes using your CDs very convenient, it may interfere with the system’s power management function. Follow these instructions to enable or disable the Auto play feature. 1.
Variable-Speed CD-RW Drive Your NEC Versa notebook might ship with a CD-RW drive and Adaptec® Easy CD Creator™ software. Use the CD-RW drive to load and start programs from a compact disc (CD) or to play your audio CDs. The C-RW drive is fully compatible with Kodak Photo CDs and standard audio CDs. In addition, the Easy CD Creator application allows you to write information to a CD and backup information from your hard disk drive to a CD.
DVD-ROM drive features A – DVD-ROM Drive B – DVD-ROM Drive Status LED C – Emergency Eject Hole D – Disc Eject Button Combination CD-RW and DVD-ROM Drive Your system might come with a combination CD-RW and DVD-ROM drive. Use the drive to load and start programs from a compact disc (CD) or to play your audio CDs, write information to a CD, or play digital video discs (DVDs). The CD-RW/DVD-ROM combination drive offers the following features (see the following figure).
Combination CD-RW and DVD-ROM drive features A – Combo CD-RW/DVD-ROM Drive B – Combo Drive Status LED C – Emergency Eject Hole D – Disc Eject Button Note Software and drivers for the combination CD-RW and DVD-ROM drive are provided separately on a CD. Printed installation instructions are packaged with the CD. Memory Modules The notebook computer offers two 64-bit memory slots using 144-pin SO-DIMMs (Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Modules).
2. Turn the system over and locate the screw on the memory bay cover. Memory bay cover and screw A – Memory Bay Cover B – Screw 3. Remove the screw and lift off the memory bay cover. 4. If you need to remove a module for the upgrade, remove it as follows (see the following figure). Before handling any internal components, discharge static electricity from yourself and your clothing by touching a nearby unpainted metal surface.
Removing the memory module 5. Locate the alignment notch on the upgrade module. 6. Locate the memory module slot. 7. Align the notch on the module with the notch in the slot connector and install the module as follows (see the following figure): Before handling any internal components, discharge static electricity from yourself and your clothing by touching a nearby unpainted metal surface. ! Hold the memory module at a 60-degree angle and align its connector with the slot in the system.
Installing the memory module 8. Reassemble the NEC Versa L320 components as follows. ! Replace the memory bay cover. ! Replace the screw. ! Turn the system over.
6 Communicating with Your NEC Versa ! MDC Modem ! Mini PCI LAN ! PC Cards ! Internet Connections ! IR Port ! Mini PCI Wireless LAN
MDC Modem Some models of the NEC Versa L320 come equipped with a 56K capable fax/data modem that allows you to communicate with others via fax or e-mail, or to connect to an online service or bulletin board. Note Due to FCC regulations in effect at the time that this document was printed, the 56K modem transmits at a maximum speed of 52K. The speed of data transmission is dependent on the quality of telephone lines. Digitally terminated lines improve the speed of data transmission.
Mini PCI LAN Some NEC Versa L320 systems ship with Mini PCI LAN, a 10/100Base-TX interface that allows connection of your system to a local area network and supports both Wakeon-LAN and Network Boot functions. To take advantage of the interface, simply connect an RJ-45 cable to the LAN port on the left side of the system (see “Around the Left Side of the System” in Chapter 1). PC Cards PC Cards are all approximately the same size and vary only in thickness. All have a standard 68-pin connector.
Communication Cards You can use fax/modem and network PC Cards with your NEC Versa. Here are some suggestions to help you get the best system performance. Note If you are using this unit outside the United States or Canada, contact a local NEC dealer for availability information. ! Network Cards — You can use a network card with your system to gain access to a local area network (LAN). You can insert a network card in either slot.
Other Cards Many other kinds of PC Cards are available for notebook computers. They include the following cards: ! Global Positioning System (GPS) — Enables the tracking of remote units (for example, delivery trucks) ! Serial — Adds an extra serial communications port ! Multimedia — Combines animation and sound ! Audio — Enables the use of sound (for example, in voice mail). PC Card Slots Your NEC Versa L320 has two Cardbus slots for inserting two PC or Cardbus cards.
2. Slide the card into either slot (Type III cards can only be inserted in the bottom slot). A low tone followed by a high tone lets you know that the card is fully inserted and recognized. (If you turn off the sound, no sound is emitted.) Other two-tone sequences such as high, then low tones indicate that the card is inserted, but the card type is unknown. Inserting a PC Card Removing a Card Follow these steps to remove a PC Card in Windows 98. 1.
Internet Connections Your NEC Versa L320 system is equipped with the Windows operating system to provide a fully-integrated Internet experience. Use the Internet Connection Wizard on your desktop to configure your system for e-mail and Internet access. Sign up for a new account or configure your system to use an existing account.
Once your Internet connection is configured, pressing the Internet shortcut button launches your associated dial-up network connection, allowing you to enter your logon name and password. In addition, Microsoft Internet Explorer launches, providing quick access to your favorite Internet sites. Sending and Receiving E-mail Your NEC Versa L320 system is equipped with an E-mail shortcut button, located just above the keyboard.
Your NEC Versa ships with the IR port disabled. Before using the IR port for the first time, you must enable the device. For Windows 98 operating systems, also enable infrared communications in the Windows Control Panel. See the following sections to enable the IR port and infrafed communications. Enabling the IR Port Follow these steps to enable the IR port. Note Once you enable the IR port in the BIOS Setup utility, the transfer speed defaults to the Fast IR (FIR) 4.0-Mbit/sec speed. 1.
Using the IR Port Follow these guidelines when using the IR port to communicate with another infrared device. ! Position the NEC Versa L320 no more than three feet away from the IR peripheral device you are using. ! Make sure that there is no greater than a 30º angle between the computer and the device.
Mini PCI Wireless LAN Some NEC Versa L320 notebook computers come with built-in wireless LAN capabilities featuring the Wi-Fi™ (wireless fidelity) IEEE 802.11b High Rate (HR) standard for business users. Wireless LAN eliminates the need for connecting cables between your computer and your local area network, facilitating mobility, minimizing downtime, and improving your productivity.
The default profile scans for any access points in the area. The Client Manager icon indicates the signal strength from your system to the access point. An icon with green showing in all bars indicates an excellent radio connection. If the Client Manager icon shows clear with a red box and a black jagged horizontal line, you have no radio connection. Check that you have enabled the Wireless LAN parameter in BIOS Setup (see the previous section).
The Client Manager main window displays the status of your active configuration profile and the quality of your connection. Menu items are available to add/edit your profile and to select advanced Client Manager options. From the main Client Manager window, select Actions in the menu bar. Select the Add/Edit Configuration Profile option to activate a wireless profile from the pull-down menu or to add, edit, or delete a user-defined wireless profile.
7 Traveling Tips ! Preparing for Travel ! Packing for Travel ! Using Power Connections ! Getting Through Customs ! Connecting to the Internet
Preparing for Travel The NEC Versa computer makes a natural traveling companion. With a little preparation you can use the computer practically anywhere you go, to prepare your business documents, confirm your travel plans, surf the Internet, or simply stay in touch with those back home! Here is what you should do before you leave home: Note Speed the trip through airport security by carrying a charged system. Inspectors may want to see the screen display a message. The boot message is usually sufficient.
! Customer support phone numbers for your software (domestic and international) ! NEC Versa Quick Reference card ! AC extension cord. Using Power Connections With the right accessories, you can run your NEC Versa almost anywhere! Your system self-adjusts to various power sources. The United States, Canada, and most of Central and South America use 120-volt alternating current (AC). Most other countries of the world use 240-volt AC.
Connecting to the Internet Whether you are on a business trip or vacation, connecting to the Internet while you travel can be expensive and frustrating unless you are prepared. Here are some tips on how to avoid frustration and expense while on the road. Connecting Using a Modem If you have access to a standard telephone jack while you are traveling, you can probably use your modem for dial-up access to your favorite sites. Follow these guidelines for connecting and configuring your system. 1. 2. 3.
! Try launching your browser (Microsoft Internet Explorer, or Netscape Communicator, for example): — If your TCP/IP network settings are already configured to “Use DHCP for WINS Resolution” you should be able to access the Internet. — If your TCP/IP network settings are not set to use DHCP, a help screen may appear, or you may be directed to call the LAN provider for assistance configuring your system.
8 Using External Devices ! Keyboard/Mouse ! USB Devices ! Serial Devices ! NEC Cable PortBar ! Monitor ! S-Video Supported Devices ! IEEE 1394 Devices ! Parallel Devices ! Audio Options
Keyboard/Mouse You can add a full-size PS/2-style keyboard or PS/2-style mouse to your NEC Versa using the Plug and Play feature. The PS/2-style keyboard and the PS/2-style mouse are warm insertable, allowing you to connect the devices while the NEC Versa is powered on. You can continue to use the system keyboard and VersaGlide touchpad while an external keyboard or mouse is connected.
USB Device Your NEC Versa L320 system is equipped with two USB ports that increase your connectivity choices. The USB ports on the back of your system each allow you to connect up to 127 USB equipped peripheral devices to your NEC Versa notebook computer. These peripherals may include a digital camera, scanner, printer, CD-ROM drive, modem, mouse, keyboard, telephone, or game device. USB devices called USB hubs can serve as connection ports for other USB peripherals.
Serial Devices To install a serial device such as a printer or an external modem, you need a cable with a female 9-pin connector. Note When you connect a printer or modem, be sure to install the appropriate driver through the Windows Control Panel. Follow these steps to connect a serial device to your NEC Versa. 1. Check that power to both the NEC Versa and the device is off. 2. Align and connect the 9-pin connector with the serial port on the system. Secure the connection with the screws provided.
NEC Cable PortBar Use the following steps to connect the NEC Versa L320 to the optional NEC Cable PortBar. 1. Disconnect the devices from the back of the NEC Versa that you want to connect to the PortBar. 2. Align the PortBar connector with the port on the back of the system. 3. Squeeze the sides of the PortBar connector together. Insert the connector in the port on the back of the system. 4. Connect the devices to the PortBar (see Chapter 1 for port identification.
Monitor You can add a standard external monitor to your NEC Versa L320. You need a display signal cable (usually provided with the monitor). One end of the cable must have a 15-pin connector for the system. Follow these steps to connect an external monitor to your NEC Versa L320. 1. Check that the NEC Versa L320 is powered off and the monitor Power switch is turned off. Note The NEC Versa L320 must be powered off or suspended while the monitor is being connected. 2.
S-Video Supported Device You can add an S-Video supported device such as a camcorder, VCR, or game machine to the S-Video connector on the back of your NEC Versa L320 notebook computer. Follow these steps to connect an S-Video supported device to your NEC Versa L320. 1. Check that the NEC Versa L320 is turned off and the device power switch is turned off. Note The NEC Versa L320 must be powered off or suspended while the S-Video device is being connected. 2.
IEEE 1394 Devices Your NEC Versa L320 system is equipped with two IEEE 1394 ports that increase your connectivity choices. The IEEE 1394 ports on the back of your system each allow you to daisy chain up to 63 IEEE 1394 devices to your system. IEEE 1394 devices support Plug and Play connectivity for transfer rates of up to 400 Mbps. These peripherals may include a digital camera, scanner, printer, or other device. Connect IEEE 1394 devices to your system as follows. 1.
Parallel Devices To install a parallel device such as a printer, you need a cable with a male 25-pin connector for the system and, for most parallel printers, a Centronics®-compatible 36-pin connector. Note When you connect a printer, be sure to install the appropriate printer driver through the Windows control panel. Connect a parallel device to your NEC Versa as follows. 1. Check that power to both the NEC Versa and the device is off. 2.
Audio Options The NEC Versa comes equipped with built-in audio ports that let you record and play sound. Connect an external microphone or headphones to the microphone in or headphone in port on the front of the NEC Versa system. See “Front Features” in Chapter 1 for port locations. Note If you are using an external microphone and experience sound distortion or feedback, lower the speaker volume.
9 Using Multimedia ! Audio ! Video ! Multimedia Applications
With its fast processor and enhanced audio and video capabilities, you can perform fantastic multimedia feats with your NEC Versa L320! This section describes the NEC Versa L320’s multimedia features and how you can use them to create high-quality, powerful presentations. Multimedia combines audio, text, animation, photo images, and video sources into one presentation. Audio The NEC Versa L320 provides entertainment-level sound quality through the stereo speakers.
4. When you finish recording, press the Stop button. Be careful when recording; audio files can become quite large. CD-ROM/DVD-ROM Input You can record music and sound effects from a CD (compact disc) and store them on your hard disk. The audio signal from the CD-ROM or DVD-ROM drive connects directly to your NEC Versa L320. Simply follow the instructions in “Recording” to record sound from your CD player.
Using Headphones The NEC Versa L320 headphone port delivers sound at half a watt. Stereo headphones plug in through the headphone jack located on the front of the NEC Versa L320. Use the audio software that comes on your system to adjust the volume. Note Using headphones disables the internal speakers. Using the Built-In Speakers The NEC Versa L320 has built-in stereo speakers. Adjust the volume through the software or with the volume control knob located on the front of the system.
Using Digital Video Files With commercial video capture hardware and application software, you can plug any video device, including VCRs, televisions, camcorders, and laser disc players into your NEC Versa L320 and record motion graphics to your hard drive. Use a video frame grabber and store a stream of grabbed stills on your hard disk. Using Animation Files You can create a dynamic presentation using an animation application.
10 Solving System Problems ! Problem Checklist ! Startup Problems ! If You Need Assistance
Once in a while you may encounter a problem with your NEC Versa L320. If the screen is blank, the instructions don’t help, or no error message appears, use the information here to determine and fix the problem. You still may be able to solve the problem yourself! Problem Checklist First check the items in the following list. If these items don't help, see the table that follows the list. ! Power is on to the computer. ! The electrical outlet to which your AC adapter is connected is working.
Troubleshooting Problem What to Do Battery power does not last long. Use power-saving modes. Fully charge and fully discharge the battery several times to recondition it. Use the Battery Refresh function in the Exit Menu of the BIOS Setup utility (see “Exit Menu” in Chapter 3). Replace the battery. Information on the LCD screen is difficult to see. Adjust the brightness and contrast using the brightness and contrast controls. The Suspend/Resume function does not work.
POST Error Messages The NEC Versa L320 has a built-in checking program that automatically tests its components when you turn the system power on. This diagnostic test is called the Power-On Self-Test (POST). If the system finds a problem during POST, the system displays an error message. If this happens, follow the instructions in the POST error message table. POST Error Messages Error Message Explanation Diskette drive A error Drive A: is present but fails the BIOS POST diskette tests.
POST Error Messages Error Message Explanation Previous POST did not complete successfully. POST loads default values and offers to run Setup. If the failure was caused by incorrect values and they are not corrected, the next boot will likely fail. On systems with wait states, improper Setup settings can also terminate POST and cause this error on the next boot. Run Setup and verify that the wait-state configuration is correct. This error is cleared the next time the system is booted.
11 Getting Service and Support ! Service and Support Contact Information ! Web Site ! Support Services ! E-mail to Support Services
Service and Support Contact Information Service Contact Information NEC Computers Inc. Web Site www.neccomp.com Support Services Web Site support.neccomp.com Support Services (U.S. and Canada customers only). 1-800-632-4525 E-mail to Support Services through a commercial online service or the Internet. Internet e-mail address: tech-support@nec-computers.com Note If you purchased your computer outside the U.S. or Canada, please contact the local NEC office or their dealers for support and service.
Web Site If you have a modem or are connected to a network, you can access the NEC Computers Web site. You can do this through a commercial online service or through your Internet account. The web site contains general information about NEC Computers and its products, press releases, reviews, a reseller locator, and service and support information.
Support Services NEC Computers also offers direct technical support through Support Services. (NEC Computers Support Services is for U.S. and Canadian customers only; international customers should contact the local NEC office or dealer for the support and service available in their country.) Direct assistance is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call NEC Computers Support Services, toll free, at 1-800-632-4525 (U.S.
A Setting Up a Healthy Work Environment ! Making Your Computer Work for You ! Arrange Your Equipment ! Adjust Your Chair ! Adjust Your Input Devices ! Adjust Your Screen or Monitor ! Vary Your Workday ! Pre-existing Conditions and Psychosocial Factors
Making Your Computer Work for You Computers are everywhere. More and more people sit at computers for longer periods of time. This appendix explains how to set up your computer to fit your physical needs. This information is based on ergonomics — the science of making the workplace fit the needs of the worker. Some nerve, tendon, and muscle disorders (musculoskeletal disorders) may be associated with repetitive activities, improper work environments, and incorrect work habits.
Arrange Your Equipment Arrange your equipment so that you can work in a natural and relaxed position. Place items that you use frequently within easy reach. Adjust your workstation setup to the proper height (as described in this appendix) by lowering the table or stand that holds your computer equipment or raising the seat height of your chair. Position your notebook computer directly in front of you for increased safety and comfort. Adjust Your Chair Your chair should be adjustable and stable.
Adjust Your Input Devices Note the following points when positioning your notebook computer or any external input devices. ! Position your keyboard directly in front of you. Avoid reaching when using your keyboard or mouse. ! If you use a mouse, position it at the same height as the keyboard and next to the keyboard. Keep your wrists straight and use your entire arm when moving a mouse. Do not grasp the mouse tightly. Grasp the mouse lightly and loosely.
! If reflected light makes it hard for you to see your screen or external monitor, use an anti-glare filter. ! Clean your screen or external monitor regularly. Use a lint-free, non-abrasive cloth and a non-alcohol, neutral, non-abrasive cleaning solution or glass cleaner to minimize dust. ! Adjust the screen or external monitor’s brightness and contrast controls to enhance readability. ! Use a document holder placed close to the screen or external monitor.
Psychosocial factors associated with these disorders include: workplace stress, poor job satisfaction, lack of support by management, and/or lack of control over one’s work. Contact a doctor if you experience pain, tenderness, swelling, burning, cramping, stiffness, throbbing, weakness, soreness, tingling and/or numbness in the hands, wrists, arms, shoulders, neck, back, and/or legs. This appendix was prepared in consultation with Dr.
B Specifications ! System Components ! Interrupt Controllers ! Memory Map
System Components Note Components may vary. The specifications provided in this section are similar, but not necessarily identical to those in your system. System Processor ! Mobile Intel Pentium III Processor-M featuring Intel SpeedStep™ technology — 933 MHz, 1 GHz, 1.
! IEEE 1394 — 2 ports, 1394 standard bus ! DC In — 1 port for AC adapter cable ! PS/2 Port — 1 port, PS/2, 6-pin MiniDin ! Parallel — 1 port, 25-pin D-sub ! USB Ports — 2 ports, base connector ! Expansion — 1 port for NEC Cable PortBar ! Serial — 1 port, 9-pin D-sub ! VGA — 1 port, 15-pin high-density D-sub ! Infrared — 1 port ! Microphone — 1 port, 3-pin, Mini-Pin jack ! Headphones — 1 port, 3-pin, Mini-Pin jack ! Bluetooth support — for Bluetooth module, and Bluetooth-compliant devi
LCD Extended Graphics Array (XGA) or Super XGA+ (SXGA+) LCD panel ! XGA LCD panel is a 14- or 15-inch high-resolution active-matrix Thin Film Transistor (TFT) color display Resolution — 1024 × 768 max Colors — up to 16.
Diskette Drive Standard 1.44 MB in Modular Bay ! Size — 3.5 inch ! Capacity — 1.44 MB (formatted), 2 MB (unformatted) Note When referring to storage capacity, MB stands for one million bytes. Some utilities may indicate varying storage capacities. Total user-accessible capacity may vary depending on operating environments. Hard Disk Drives ! Internal, 2.
! Access Time — Average random access, 100 ms (DVD), 95 ms (CD 24X) — Average random seek, 95 ms (DVD), 90 ms (CD 24X) — Full stroke, 160 ms (DVD), 160 ms (CD 24X) ! Data Buffer — 128 KB ! Interface — IDE (ATAPI) ! CD Compatibility — CD-DA, CD+G, CD MIDI, CD-TEXT, CD-ROM, CD-ROM XA, CD-I Bridge (Photo-CD, Video CD), CD-I, Multisession CD (Photo-CD, CDExtra, CD-RW, CD-R), CD-R (read), CD-RW (read) ! DVD Compatibility — DVD-5, DVD-9, DVD-10, DVD-18, DVD-R (read, single border) CD-RW Drive ! Housed
DVD-ROM and CD-RW Combination Drive ! Housed in NEC VersaBay IV slot ! Data capacity — DVD, 2,048 bytes/block — CD, 2048 bytes/block (mode 1), 2,336 bytes/block (mode 2) ! Rotational speed — DVD, 3,792 (2.5 – 6X CAV) — DVD-Video, 1,377-2,222 rpm (1.6X – 2.4X PCAV) — CD, 5,100 rpm (10.3 – 24X CAV) — CD-RW, 1,200 – 2000 rpm (4 – 5.7X PCAV) — Video-CD, 1,200 – 2000 rpm (4 – 5.
MDC Modem (built-in) ! K56flex™ compatible ! V.34 extended rate protocol ! V.90 compliant ! Enhanced AT command set ! Class 1 and 2 Fax protocols ! Built-in speaker with software controllable volume Mini PCI LAN ! 10Base-T and 100Base-TX ! Resume-on-LAN support ! Full duplex support ! Software support for management server Wireless Mini PCI LAN (built-in) ! IEEE 802.
Dimensions System ! Width — 12.8 in (327 mm) max ! Depth — 10.4 in. (268 mm) max ! Height — 1.5 in. to 1.6 in. (39.2 mm to 40.5 mm) ! Minimum 7.1 lbs. (3.
Interrupt Controllers The following table shows default interrupt level assignments 0 through 15. Note These resources may change after this user’s guide goes to print. Please refer the NEC Versa L320 Release Notes that came with your NEC Versa L320.
Memory Map The system supports system and video shadowing, both controlled through complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS). The system supports BIOS as a cacheable area with write protection. The following table shows the system’s memory map.
C Frequently Asked Questions ! External Mouse ! Display ! PC Cards ! Diskette Drive ! Booting ! Power Management ! Miscellaneous
External Mouse How can a mouse and an external keyboard be connected to the notebook at the same time? The NEC Versa L320 is equipped with two USB ports that allow you to connect any combination of two USB devices, at the same time. If you purchase a USB mouse and a USB keyboard, simply plug each device into any of the USB ports on your system.
Can I run two of the same type cards simultaneously? Yes, Windows configures each card. If they are both modems, configure each for a different Com port and different available interrupts under the Device Manager in Windows. Click Start, Settings, Control Panel, System, Hardware (Windows 2000 only), Device Manager. Why do certain PC Cards cause my battery life to drop noticeably? Certain hard disk cards and wireless radio cards consume more power than others and can impact battery life.
How do I format a diskette? Double click on the My Computer icon and then right click (click the righthand mouse button) on the diskette drive icon. Select Format and choose the format process that best suits your needs. To format high density 1.44-MB* diskettes in DOS, type format a: and press Enter. If you want a bootable diskette, type format a:/s and press Enter. What type of diskette do I use in my diskette drive? Your NEC Versa L320 ships with a 1.44-MB* diskette drive that uses 3.
What is the difference between a warm boot and a cold boot? A warm boot restarts the system while system power is on. A warm boot is also a software reset. A warm boot clears volatile system memory and reloads the operating system. A cold boot is a system start with power off. A cold boot also resets the hardware. It checks the hardware and reloads the operating system.
Resuming from STF mode requires less time than performing a cold boot. Your system must be configured for STF/Hibernation. In Windows Power Management Properties, check the box labeled “enable hibernate support,” under the Hibernate tab. In the BIOS Power Management Setup, enable the “Auto save-to-file” parameter and set the “Suspend Option” to STF. How do I bring my system out of Standby mode? Pressing the Power button brings the system out of Standby mode.
Miscellaneous How do I set the time and date? You can change the time and date in Windows 2000/98 by double clicking the time in the lower right corner of the screen. Change the date and time as needed. How do I speed up my application? If the application you are using runs really slow, close any other applications you are not using — this should speed things up. If your application still runs slow, you might consider installing additional memory. See “Memory Modules” in Chapter 5.
How do I save a file? You save a file by selecting File, then Save, from the drop down menu. If the file was not previously named, you will be prompted for a file name. In Windows 2000/98, you can use up to 255 characters to name a file. *When referring to storage capacity, MB stands for one million bytes. Some utilities may indicate varying storage capacities. Total user-accessible capacity may vary depending on operating environments.
Glossary A AC adapter A device that connects an NEC Versa notebook computer and an AC wall outlet to provide AC power for running the system and recharging the battery. A/D conversion The process of converting an analog signal into a digital signal. AGP Advanced Graphics Port is an interface specification designed for the throughput demands of 3D graphics.
bits per second (bps) A unit of transmission. Also called baud rate. Bluetooth Wireless protocol that allows wireless connectivity from a Bluetooth module in your computer to a wireless communication device. board Printed circuit board (PCB). Board on which computer components are soldered and thin wires are printed to connect the components. boot To start up a computer. See cold boot and warm boot.
CD-RW drive Compact Disc Read/Write. A computer controlled device that reads from and writes to high capacity optical discs. clock Electronic timer used to synchronize computer operations. CMOS Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor. A chip that contains nonvolatile memory in the Versa notebook. CMOS is backed up by an internal battery that preserves clock/calendar data and system configuration parameters stored in CMOS. cold boot Process of starting up the computer by turning on the power.
diskette drive A magnetic drive that writes on and retrieves data from a diskette. DVD Originally digital versatile disc but now digital video disc, this new type of disc can hold up to seven times the data of a compact disc. E enhanced VGA A video interface that offers more colors or higher resolution than VGA. extended RAM The area of RAM above the first megabyte of memory in the system available for enhancing system performance. F FIR Fast Infrared, an infrared technology that sends data at 4.
IEEE 1394 Standard IEEE 1394 devices support Plug and Play connectivity for transfer rates of up to 400 Mbps. Use this port to daisy chain up to 63 IEEE 1394 devices to your system. input/output (I/O) The process of transferring data between the computer and external devices. IDE Intelligent Drive Electronics. A hard disk drive type that has controller electronics built into the drive and delivers high throughput.
M megabyte (MB) 1,048,576 bytes. memory Electronic storage area in a computer that retains information and programs. A computer has two types of memory — read-only memory (ROM) and random access memory (RAM). menu A video display of programs or options. microprocessor A semiconductor central processing unit that is the principal component of a microcomputer. Usually contained on a single chip that includes an arithmetic logic unit, control logic, and control-memory unit.
N nonvolatile memory Storage media that retains its data when system power is turned off. Nonvolatile memory in the Versa notebook is a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) chip that is backed up by an internal battery. The backup battery preserves the clock/calendar data and system configuration parameters stored in CMOS. See volatile memory. O operating system Set of programs that manage the overall operation of the computer.
PC Card A credit-card–sized peripheral interface standard for portable devices. Types of PC cards (also known as PCMCIA cards) currently offered by major vendors include fax/modems, LAN, storage cards, and wireless communications devices. peripheral Input or output device not under direct computer control. A printer is a peripheral device. pixels Picture elements. Tiny dots that make up a screen image. port Provides the means for an interface between the microprocessor and external devices.
reset The process of returning a device to zero or to an initial or arbitrarily selected condition. resolution The degree of screen image clarity. Video display resolution is determined by the number of pixels on the screen. Resolution is usually specified in pixels by scan lines, for example, 800x600. See pixels. RS-232C Standard interface for serial devices. This port is sometimes referred to as the serial port.
S/PDIF Sony and Philips Digital Interconnect Format. S/PDIF enables a computer system to produce digital audio output through the use of an optical output cable to an optical disk device. Standby mode A state of power management that puts the system to “sleep.” Standby mode shuts down all devices in the system while retaining data and system status. SVGA Super Video Graphics Array. Graphics technology that supports up to 256 or more colors and a graphics resolution of 800x600 pixels.
VGA Video Graphics Array. Graphics technology that supports up to 256 colors and a graphics resolution of 640x480 pixels. volatile memory Storage media that loses its data when system power is turned off. Standard memory and memory that you add to the Versa notebook are volatile memory. See nonvolatile memory. W warm boot Process of resetting the computer without turning off the power through keyboard input (pressing Ctrl, Alt, and Del keys simultaneously).
Index 1 1394 connecting devices, 8-8 devices, 1-13 port, 1-13 standard, 1-13 A AC adapter connecting, 2-4, 2-5 cooling, 2-14 specifications, B-3 using, 2-4, 2-14 AC power cable, 2-4 AC power port, 1-14, 1-17, 2-5 Accessing the internet, 6-8 ACPI, 3-13, 3-16 advanced power settings, 3-19, 3-23 alarms, 3-18, 3-22 hibernation, 3-19, 3-23 power meter, 3-19, 3-22 power schemes, 3-17, 3-21 Adapter AC, 2-4 vehicle cigarette lighter, 2-3 Advanced BIOS Setup menu, 3-4 Advanced Configuration and Power Interface, 3-1
BIOS Setup utility (cont'd) HDD password, 3-10 I/O device configuration, 3-8 Intel SpeedStep2 technology, 3-14 key functions, 3-5 lid switch, 3-14 load defaults, 3-15 Main Menu, 3-3, 3-6 menus, 3-5 NumLock on boot, 3-7 password protection, 3-9, 3-10, 3-11 Power button as switch, 3-14 power management, 3-14 Power menu, 3-13 PS/2 mouse parameters, 3-7 saving changes, 3-15 screen description, 3-4 Security menu, 3-9 system time, 3-6 time, 3-6 wireless LAN device parameters, 3-8 Bluetooth device, 1-9, 1-15, B-3
F Fan, 1-14 Fast IR, 6-9 Features back, 1-13 base unit, 1-4 bottom, 1-16 control panel, 1-5 front, 1-12 keyboard, 1-5, 1-9 left side, 1-14 right side, 1-15 standard, 1-3 VersaGlide touchpad, 1-5 FingerPrint protection, 3-11 FIR, 6-9 Full restore, 4-17 Function keys LCD brighness, 1-10 location, 1-10 scroll lock, 1-10 video mode, 1-10 wireless device on/off, 1-10 zoom, 1-10 G Getting through customs, 7-3 H Hard disk drive moving, 3-12 partitioning, 4-15 password protection, 3-11 power management, 3-17, 3-1
Keypad, 1-11 L LAN port, 1-14, 1-17 LCD panel, B-4 brightness function keys, 1-10 closing, 3-19, 3-23 features, 1-5 latch, 1-4, 1-12 opening, 1-12 view expansion, 3-7 LCD power management, 3-17, 3-18, 3-21 LCD screen cleaning, 2-15 LEDs back of LCD, 1-8 battery charging, 1-8, 2-11 caps lock, 1-9 drive activity, 1-9 e-mail notification, 1-8 locating, 1-4 Modular Bay drive activity, 1-9 num lock, 1-9 operating status, 1-5, 1-8 power status, 1-5, 1-8 radio wave status, 1-8, 1-9, 1-15 scroll lock, 1-9 security
using internal speakers, 9-4 video, 9-4 N NEC Cable PortBar connecting devices, 8-5 connectors, 1-13 features, 1-13, 1-17 NEC Computers contact information, 11-2 e-mail support services, 11-4 support services, 11-3, 11-4 Web site, 11-3 NEC Customize utility, 4-6 NEC Info Center, 4-14 installing, 4-14 uninstalling, 4-14 NEC Modular Bay devices, 1-15 drive, 5-4 drive activity LED, 1-9 latch, 1-15 removing a device, 1-15, 5-4 slot, 1-15 swapping devices, 1-15 weight-saving module, 2-13 NEC SoftDVD Player, 5-1
Ports AC power, 1-14, 1-17 enabling, 3-8 headphone, 1-12 IEEE 1394, 1-13 IR, 1-12 LAN, 1-14, 1-17 microphone, 1-12 modem, 1-14 NEC Cable PortBar, 1-17 parallel, 1-14, 1-17 PS/2, 1-13, 1-17 serial, 1-13, 1-17 S-video out, 1-13 USB, 1-13, 1-17 VGA, 1-13, 1-17 POST error messages, 10-4 Power button, 1-6, 3-14 cable, 2-4 connections, 7-3 management under AC, 3-14 meter, 3-19, 3-22 schemes, 3-18, 3-21 sources, 2-3, 7-3 status LEDs, 1-5, 1-8 Power button, 3-23 locating, 1-4, 1-5 pressing, 3-19 using, 1-6 Power ma
SDRAM module, 5-12 Secondary battery.
Refresh Battery, 3-15 V VersaBay IV.
Regulatory Statements The following regulatory statements include the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Radio Frequency Interference Statement, compliance statements for Canada and Europe, battery disposal and replacement information, and the Declaration of Conformity. FCC Statement for United States Only Changes or modifications to this unit not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
European Community Directive Conformance Statement This product is in conformity with the protection requirements of EC Council Directive 89/336/EEC on the approximation of laws of the Member States relating to electromagnetic compatibility. This product satisfied the Class B limits of EN 55022. Battery Replacement A lithium battery in some computers maintains system configuration information.
NEC Computers Inc. DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY We, the Responsible Party NEC Computers Inc. 15 Business Park Way Sacramento, CA 95828 declare that the product NEC Versa L320 is in conformity with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation of this product 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.