Amrel ROCKY F9 User manual

AmericanReliance,Inc.
ROCKYRF9 
USERGUIDE
17”RuggedNotebookComputer

20110630


I
Notice
The company reserves the right to revise this publication or to change its
contents without any notice. Information contained herein is for reference
only and does not constitute a commitment on the part of the
manufacturer or any subsequent vendor. They assume no responsibility
or liability for any errors or inaccuracies that may appear in this
publication nor are they in anyway responsible for any loss or damage
resulting from the use (or misuse) of this publication.
Any of the software described in this manual is sold or licensed "as is".
Should the programs prove defective following purchase, the buyer (and
not the manufacturer, its distributor, or its dealer) assumes the entire
cost of all necessary servicing, repair and any incidental or
consequential damages resulting from any software defects.
Brand and product names mentioned in this publication may or may not
be copyrights and/or registered trademarks of their respective
companies. They are mentioned for identification purposes only and are
not intended as an endorsement of that product or its manufacturer.
Copyright © 2011 American Reliance, Inc.
Trademarks
All other brand and product names are trademarks or registered
trademarks of their respective companies.

II
FCC (Federal Communications Commission) Statement
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a
Class B digital device pursuant part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits
are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful
interference in a residential installation.
This equipment generates, uses, and radiates radio frequency energy. If
not being installed and used in accordance with the instructions, it may
cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is
no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If
this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television
reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on,
the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more
of the following measures:
Re-orient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to
which the receiver is connected.
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject
to the following two conditions:
This device may not cause harmful interference.
This device must accept any interference received, including
interference that may cause undesired operation.
FCC Caution
To assure continued compliance, any changes or modifications not
expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could
void the user's authority to operate this equipment. (Example - use
only shielded interface cables when connecting to computer or
peripheral devices).

III
RegulatoryInformation/Disclaimers
Installation and use of this computer must be in strict accordance with
the instructions included in the user documentation provided with the
product. Any changes or modifications (including the antennas) made to
this device that are not expressly approved by the manufacturer may
void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
The manufacturer is not responsible for any radio or television
interference caused by unauthorized modification of this device, or the
substitution of the connecting cables and equipment other than
manufacturer specified. It is the responsibility of the user to correct any
interference caused by such unauthorized modification, substitution or
attachment. Manufacturer and its authorized resellers or distributors will
assume no liability for any damage or violation of government
regulations arising from failing to comply with these guidelines.

III
CE
Products with the CE Marking comply with both the EMC Directive
(89/336/EEC) and the Low Voltage Directive (73/23/EEC) issued by the
Commission of the European Community.
Compliance with these directives implies conformity to the following
European Norms:
EN55022 (CISPR 22) Radio Frequency Interference
EN55024 (EN61000-4-2, EN61000-4-3, EN61000-4-4,
EN61000-4-5, EN61000-4-6, EN61000-4-8,
EN61000-4-11, EN61000-3-2, EN61000-3-3)
Generic Immunity Standard
LVD EN 60950 Product Safety, IEC 60950-1: 2005
R&TTE(CE)ManualRegulatoryRequirement
WLAN - IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n
802.11a/b/g/n Restrictions:
European standards dictate maximum radiated transmit power of
100mW EIRP and frequency range 2.400-2.4835 GHz. In France, the
equipment must be restricted to the 2.4465-2.4835 GHz frequency range
and must be restricted to indoor use.

IV
CEDeclarationofConformity
It is confirmed to comply with the requirements set out in the Council
Directive on the approximation of the laws of the member states relating
to Electromagnetic Compatibility (89/336/EEC), Low-voltage Directive
(73/23/EEC), the Amendment Directive (93/68/EEC), and the
procedures given in European Council Directive (99/5/EC and
89/3360EEC).
The equipment was passed, and the equipment test was performed
according to the following European standards:
EN 300 328 V1.7.1: 2006
EN 301 893 V1.4.1 (2007-07)
EN 301 V1.8.1 2008-04 / EN 301 489-17 V1.3.2 2008-04
EN 50371:2002
EN 60950-1: 2005
UL, TÜV
AC Adapter (TÜV includes EN60950 LVD)

V
PowerConservation
This computer consumes much less power than conventional computers.
However, power consumption may be reduced by configuring the Power
Management Setup properly.
It is recommended the power saving functions to be enabled even when
not running on battery power.
Power Management will not degrade performance while saving power.
PowerSafety
There are specific power requirements for this computer:
Only use an approved power adapter for this computer.
There is a 3-prong grounded plug of the power adapter. The third
prong is an important for safety. Do not neglect the importance for it.
If you are not able to access a compatible outlet, installing one by a
qualified electrician is necessary.
When unplugging the power cord, please be sure to disconnect it
from the plug head but from its wire.
Make sure the socket and any other extension cord you use can
support the total current load of all the connected devices.
Before cleaning the computer, make sure it is disconnected from
any external power supplies.
Warning
Before any upgrade procedures, make sure the power is turned
off, and all the cables are disconnected (including telephone
lines). Also, it is advisable to re-move your battery in prevent
from turning the computer on accidentally.

VI
BatteryPrecautions
Only use the batteries designed for this computer. The wrong
battery may cause explosion, leakage or damage to the computer.
Do not remove the battery from the computer while it is powered on.
Do not continuously use a battery that has been dropped, or that
appears damaged (e.g. bent or twisted) in any way. Even if the
computer is able to continuously work with a damaged battery, the
circuit damage may occur and possibly cause fire.
Always use the notebook’s system or charger to recharge the
battery. Incorrect recharging may make the battery explode.
Do not try to repair a battery pack by yourself. Refer to any battery
pack repair or replacement, please contact with to your service
representative or qualified service personnel.
Please dispose of a damaged battery promptly and carefully.
Explosion or leakage may occur, if the battery is exposed to fire,
improperly handled or discarded.
Battery Disposal & Caution
The product that you have purchased contains a rechargeable
battery. The battery is recyclable. At the end of its service life, under
various state and local laws, it may be illegal to dispose of this
battery into the municipal waste stream. Check with your local solid
waste officials for details in your area for recycling options or proper
disposal. Danger of explosion may possibly occur, if the battery is
incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or the equivalent
battery recommended by the manufacturer. Discard the used battery
according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

VII
Environmental Information, Material Safety & Recycling
All materials used in the manufacturing of this equipment are recyclable
or environmentally friendly.
Please recycle the packing materials by the local regulations at the end
of the product's service life.
Notice:
The equipment may still contain tiny amount of hazardous
substances for health and environment, though those are below
control level.
To avoid spreading such substances into the eco system, and to
minimize the pressure on the natural, you are encouraged to use the
appropriate take-back for reusing or recycling most of the materials
in a safe way after the service life.
The crossed bin symbol indicates proper disposal is required.
For more information on collection, reuse and recycling, please
consult the local or regional waste administration for more
information.
You can also contact with the dealer for more information on the
environmental details of the equipment.
The symbol of the crossed out wheeled bin indicates that
the product (electrical and electronic equipment) should not
be placed in municipal waste. Please check local
regulations for disposal of electronic products.

CONTENTS
CHAPTER ONE- GETTING STARTED .................................................1
UNPACKING...................................................................................................................1
QUICK OPERATION ........................................................................................................2
APPEARANCE OVERVIEW ...............................................................................................3
CHAPTER TWO- OPERATING INFORMATION...................................8
WORKPLACE .................................................................................................................8
RUGGEDNESS ...............................................................................................................8
WORK WITH POWER BUTTON .......................................................................................10
SHUT DOWN ................................................................................................................10
SLEEP/HIBERNATE......................................................................................................11
HARD DISK DRIVE (HDD) ............................................................................................13
OPTICAL DISK DEVICE (ODD) ......................................................................................13
EXPRESS AND PC CARDS ............................................................................................14
RTC ...........................................................................................................................14
REPLACING MODULES..................................................................................................15
RF DEVICES (OPTIONAL) .............................................................................................16
CHAPTER THREE- MANAGING POWER ..........................................23
AC ADAPTER...............................................................................................................23
BATTERY.....................................................................................................................24
POWER CONSERVATION...............................................................................................26
SUPPORTING ACPI......................................................................................................27
CHAPTER FOUR- BIOS SETUP.........................................................28
MAIN MENU.................................................................................................................28
SATA PORT 1SUB-MENU ...........................................................................................30
SATA PORT 2SUB-MENU ...........................................................................................31
ADVANCED MENU ........................................................................................................32
ADVANCED MENU SELECTIONS ....................................................................................33
SIO SMC27 CONFIGURATION SUB-MENU...............................................................35
SECURITY MENU .........................................................................................................37
SECURITY MENU SELECTIONS......................................................................................37
RF INTERFACE CONTROL SUB-MENU ...........................................................................38
BOOT MENU ................................................................................................................39
EXIT MENU..................................................................................................................40
CHAPTER FIVE- DRIVERS AND APPLICATION...............................41
CHIPSET DRIVER .........................................................................................................41
VGA...........................................................................................................................41
AUDIO.........................................................................................................................42
TOUCH SCREEN (OPTIONAL) ........................................................................................42
GIGABIT LAN (OPTIONAL)............................................................................................43
MODEM (OPTIONAL) ....................................................................................................43
WIRELESS MANAGER...................................................................................................43

WLAN (OPTIONAL)......................................................................................................43
BLUETOOTH (OPTIONAL)..............................................................................................44
WWAN (OPTIONAL) ....................................................................................................45
CHAPTER SIX- SPECIFICATION .......................................................46
CPU...........................................................................................................................46
MEMORY.....................................................................................................................46
DISPLAY......................................................................................................................46
KEYBOARD ..................................................................................................................47
TOUCHPAD..................................................................................................................47
HARD DISK DRIVE (HDD) ............................................................................................47
OPTICAL DISK DRIVE (ODD) ........................................................................................47
I/O PORTS ..................................................................................................................47
AC ADAPTER...............................................................................................................48
SYSTEM UNIT DIMENSIONS AND WEIGHT ......................................................................48
MATERIALS AND RECYCLING ........................................................................................49
ENVIRONMENTAL .........................................................................................................49
CHAPTER SEVEN- OPTIONAL DEVICES..........................................50
MEMORY CARD ...........................................................................................................50
VEHICLE ADAPTER.......................................................................................................50
2ND BATTERY ...............................................................................................................50
2ND HDD .....................................................................................................................51
ODD ..........................................................................................................................51
HEATER ......................................................................................................................51
LAN AND MODEM CARD ..............................................................................................51
WIRELESS LAN CARD .................................................................................................51
KB DUST COVER.........................................................................................................52
PC CARD COVER ........................................................................................................52
BUILT-IN VEHICLE ADAPTER .........................................................................................52
DUAL BATTERY CHARGER RT202D..............................................................................53
TRUST PLATFORM MODULE (TPM)...............................................................................54
CHAPTER EIGHT – MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE ........................55
CLEANING ...................................................................................................................55
TROUBLESHOOTING .....................................................................................................55
RMA SERVICE ............................................................................................................56

AMREL RF9 User Guide
Chapter One - 1
Gettin
g
Started
Chapter One- Getting Started
Unpacking
The following components are along with your computer. If there is any
missing or damaged, please notify the dealer immediately.
Computer Unit
Removable HDD (Hard Disk Drive)
Removable ODD (Optical Disk Drive)
AC Adapter
AC Power Cord
Utility DVD
Quick Guide
Carrying Bag

AMREL RF9 User Guide
Chapter One - 2
Gettin
g
Started
QuickOperation
Loosen the battery screw, remove the battery insulation sheet, and
mount the battery.
Connect the AC adapter with the computer and start charging the
battery for at least 10 minutes.
Turn ON the computer by pressing the power switch.
Notice:
When ambient temperature is under +5℃(This is the default setting
for this computer.), the system may not boot up immediately. System
will beep with LED heater light flashing to remind the user while
heater working. Also, the frequency of the LED will become faster to
remind the user while the temperature is approaching to be suitable.
After 5~15 minutes, the system will boot up automatically.
Under an emergency situation, it is able to skip heating for booting up
the system immediately by pressing the power switch for >9 seconds.
The speaker will also beep with a special sound. (It is not guaranteed
all devices on the computer are possible to work properly.)
Press the power switch again during the heating process will shut
down the computer.
Driver or application installation may be necessary for further
operation.
The following procedures will help to Turn OFF the computer:
1. Press power switch to “Shut Down”, “Standby”* or “Hibernate”*
depending on operating system (OS) and power management
settings.
2. Press power switch for 4 seconds for a “Hard” power off. But the
system will shut down immediately without saving any data or
parameters.
3. Click Start Shut Down in Windows to Turn OFF.
Note: Some operating systems may not support the above-mentioned
functions.

AMREL RF9 User Guide
Chapter One - 3
Gettin
g
Started
Appearance Overview
LCD Panel Open
1. Embedded Antennas (Optional):
HSDPA/UMTS, WLAN-L, GPS, Bluetooth, WLAN-R (from left to right)
2. RF Devices All ON/OFF (Optional)
3. LED Indicators and Power Switch:
4. Touchpad
5. Touchpad Right and Left Button
Heater HDD in Use
BT/WLAN/GPS Secondary Battery Charging
Keyboard Number Lock Primary Battery Charging
Keyboard Caps Lock Power Indicator
Keyboard Scroll Lock Power Switch
○
1
○
5
○
2
○
3
○
4

AMREL RF9 User Guide
Chapter One - 4
Gettin
g
Started
Right View
1. Flex Bay:
a. Standard: SATA ODD (Optical Disk Drive)
b. Optional: 2nd HDD or 2nd Battery
2. SATA HDD (Hard Disk Drive)
○
1 ○ 2

AMREL RF9 User Guide
Chapter One - 5
Gettin
g
Started
Left View
1. PS/2 Port (Keyboard + Mouse)
2. LAN RJ45 (Optional)
3. IEEE1394 Port (Fire Wire)
4. USB Port (Universal Serial Bus)
5. USB Port (Universal Serial Bus)
6. USB Port (Universal Serial Bus)
7. External Speaker & Earphone Jack
8. Line-in Jack
9. Microphone Jack
10. Express Card Slot x 1 & PC Card I/II Slot x 1
(Optional: PC Card I/II Slot x 2)
11. Modem Jack RJ11 (Optional)
○
1 ○ 2 ○ 3
○
4○ 5○ 6 ○ 7
○
8
○
9
○
10 ○ 11

AMREL RF9 User Guide
Chapter One - 6
Gettin
g
Started
Rear View
1. Optional: Military Connector Port
2. Optional: Military Connector Port
3. DC Power Jack
4. Serial Port DB9 (COM1/ Default: RS232)
5. RGB Port
6. Docking Port
7. Printer Port
8. Serial Port DB9 (COM2/ Default: RS232)
9. DVI Port
○
1 ○ 2 ○ 3 ○ 4 ○ 5 ○ 6 ○ 7 ○ 8 ○ 9

AMREL RF9 User Guide
Chapter One - 7
Gettin
g
Started
Bottom View
1. Primary Battery
2. ODD Latch
3. HDD Latch
○
1
○
2
○
3

AMREL RF9 User Guide
Chapter Two - 8
O
p
eratin
g
Information
Chapter Two- Operating Information
Workplace
A clean and moisture-free environment is preferred. Make room for air
circulation. Remember to avoid areas from:
Sudden or extreme changes in temperature.
Extreme heat.
Strong electromagnetic fields (near television set, motor rotation area,
etc.).
Dust or high humidity.
If it is necessary to work in a hostile environment, please regularly
maintain your notebook computer by cleaning dust, water, and etc. to
keep it in an optimal condition.
Ruggedness
This notebook computer is designed with rugged features such as
vibration, shock, dust, and rain/ water protection. However, it is still
necessary to provide appropriate protection while operating in harsh
environments.
The notebook computer is also designed to withstand rainfall from top with
mild wind blowing only. Please keep the keyboard facing up, i.e. normal
operating direction, to maintain water resistance. NEVER immerse the
unit in water, or spray water at an upside-down system. Doing so may
cause permanent damage.
The D-sub connector caps on the rear of the computer are for dust and
shock protection. The connectors are sealed internally. Other I/O ports

AMREL RF9 User Guide
Chapter Two - 9
O
p
eratin
g
Information
and devices on the left or right must have caps tightly closed or cable
inlets sealed while being exposed to water or dust.
There are optional gaskets for DB-9 and DB-25 connectors. You may
install them to improve rain/ dust/ moisture resistance on your commercial
type cable. Insert the packing into the male connector (with pins) and
fasten the screws.
All connectors will be corroded if being exposed to water or moisture.
Corrosion is accelerated if the power is ON. Please take proper
water-resistant measures for cable connections.
The DC jack and cables are sealed and may be operated with water
splashing while attached. All port covers should be in place when no cable
is attached.
OperatingSystem
This notebook computer is compatible with most operating systems (OS).
However, not all functions are 100% compatible. For example, ACPI,
Smart Battery, and etc. are not available on DOS, and other non-Microsoft
OS. Consequently “Standby”, “Hibernation”, “Battery Gauge”, and etc.
would not work under such operating systems.