Compaq Armada 1500 User manual

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Notice
The information in this guide is subject to change without notice.
COMPAQ COMPUTER CORPORATION SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR
TECHNICAL OR EDITORIAL ERRORS OR OMISSIONS CONTAINED
HEREIN; NOR FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES
RESULTING FROM THE FURNISHING, PERFORMANCE, OR USE OF
THIS MATERIAL.
This guide contains information protected by copyright. No part of this
guide may be photocopied or reproduced in any form without prior
written consent from Compaq Computer Corporation.
© 1998 Compaq Computer Corporation.
All rights reserved. Printed in the Singapore.
Compaq and LTE are registered in the U. S. Patent and Trademark
Office.
Armada is a trademark of Compaq Computer Corporation.
Microsoft, MS-DOS, and Windows are registered trademarks of
Microsoft Corporation.
The software described in this guide is furnished under a license
agreement or nondisclosure agreement. The software may be used or
copied only in accordance with the terms of the agreement.
Product names mentioned herein may be trademarks and/or registered
trademarks of their respective companies.
USER’S GUIDE
Compaq Armada 1500 Family of Personal Computers
Third Edition (January 1998)
First Edition (March 1997)
Part Number 284809-003
Compaq Computer Corporation
assistenza compaq

Before You Begin ix
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preface
BEFORE YOU BEGIN
This chapter provides information about documentation and
online help files, customer registration information, ordering
backup software, and understanding symbols and conventions
used in this guide. This chapter also describes the contents of the
packing box your computer came in and helps you get connected
to AC power.
Finding Information
References for the computer are provided as printed materials and
as online information accessible from the computer screen.
NOTE: The printed and online references that come with the
computer vary by model.
Printed and Online References
In addition to this User’s Guide, the following printed references
come with your computer:
■ Quick setup poster
■ Options information
■ Microsoft operating system guide
■ Safety & Comfort Guide
■ Warranty and service information
■ Important Modem Information

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The following Compaq online references are preinstalled on your
computer:
■ Compaq Reference Guide
■ Microsoft Windows
■ Safety & Comfort Guide
The online references installed on the computer include user’s
guides, application help, software utilities help, and customer
support information. Many are accessible from the Compaq
Information Center folder on the Start menu. Others can be
accessed from the application or utility screens.
CAUTION: Most online references are available only through the
Windows interface. If you delete Windows, those references will also
be deleted. Therefore, Compaq recommends that you do not delete
Windows software.
Accessing Online
Reference Guide
To access the online Reference Guide, click Start, Compaq
Information Center, Compaq Reference Guide.
Ordering Backup Software
Compaq recommends that you create a backup of the software
preinstalled on the computer. Or, for an additional cost, you can
order backup diskettes from Compaq for all software preinstalled
on this computer.
To order backup diskettes, refer to the “Worldwide Telephone
Numbers” listed in Appendix A, “Compaq Customer Support” in
this guide or in the online Reference Guide.If an order form is
included with your computer, complete the form and return it. Or
call one of the numbers listed on the order form.
IMPORTANT: Before calling Compaq to place your order, find the
serial number on the rear of your computer. This number is
necessary for all backup diskette purchases.
Customer Registration Material
In North America, Compaq provides information in the packing
box on how to register your new product.

Before You Begin xi
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Symbols and Conventions
■ Some or all of the following format conventions are used in
this guide to distinguish elements of text: Names of keys are
shown in bold type as they appear on the keyboard, for
example, Ctrl, Backspace, Tab.
■ Keys that you should press at the same time are represented by
the key names and the plus (+) symbol, for example,
Ctrl+Alt+Delete.
■ Commands are presented in lowercase, bold type as shown
here: install or a:\install.
■ When you need to type information without pressing the Enter
key, you are directed to “type” the information.
■ When you need to type information and press the Enter key,
you are directed to “enter” the information.
NOTE: Text set off in this manner presents commentary, sidelights,
or interesting points of information.
IMPORTANT: Text set off in this manner presents clarifying
information or specific instructions.
!
WARNING: Text set off in this manner indicates that failure to
follow directions could result in bodily harm or loss of life.
CAUTION: Text set off in this manner indicates that failure to follow
directions could result in damage to equipment or loss of
information.

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Verifying the Packing Box Contents
Along with your computer, the packing box contains an external
power cord and a battery pack preinstalled in the battery bay.
Some models may also have a modem cable.
!
WARNING: It is in your best interest to set up a comfortable and
healthful workstation. Misuse of your personal computer or failure to
establish a safe and comfortable workstation could result in
discomfort or serious injury. Consult your
Safety & Comfort Guide
for
more information.
Guidelines for Connecting External Power
!
WARNING: To reduce the risk of electric shock or damage to the
equipment:
■ Do not disable the power cord grounding plug. The
grounding plug is an important safety feature.
■ Plug the AC power cord into a grounded (earthed)
outlet that is easily accessible at all times.
■ Disconnect power from the computer by unplugging
the AC power cord from either the electrical outlet or
the Automobile Adapter.
■ Do not place anything on power cords or cables.
Arrange them so that no one may accidentally step on
or trip over them. Do not pull on a cord or cable. When
unplugging from the electrical outlet, grasp the cord by
the plug.

Contents v
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CONTENTS
preface
BEFORE YOU BEGIN
Finding Information...........................................................................ix
Printed and Online References ......................................................ix
Accessing Online Reference Guide................................................x
Ordering Backup Software..................................................................x
Customer Registration Material..........................................................x
Symbols and Conventions..................................................................xi
Verifying the Packing Box Contents ................................................xii
Guidelines for Connecting External Power ......................................xii
chapter 1
LOOKING AT THE COMPUTER
Display and Left Side Components .................................................1-2
Right Side Components....................................................................1-3
Volume Control Buttons..............................................................1-4
Rear Components.............................................................................1-5
Bottom Components.........................................................................1-6
Keyboard Components.....................................................................1-7
Special Function Keys.................................................................1-8
Identifying Hotkeys .....................................................................1-9
Using the Embedded Numeric Keypad.....................................1-10
Programmable Keys...................................................................1-11
Using the Touchpad .......................................................................1-11
Customizing Touchpad Functions.............................................1-12
Cleaning the Touchpad..............................................................1-12
chapter 2
USING POWER FEATURES
Using the Power Switch...................................................................2-1
Restarting the Computer..............................................................2-2
When to Turn Off the Computer or Initiate Suspend..................2-2
Using the Suspend Button................................................................2-3
How Suspend Is Initiated.............................................................2-3
Results of Suspend.......................................................................2-4
Exiting Suspend...........................................................................2-4
Using Hibernation............................................................................2-4
Initiating Hibernation...................................................................2-5
Exiting Hibernation......................................................................2-6
Power Management Utility..............................................................2-6
Battery Conservation Levels........................................................2-7

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chapter 3
LEARNING ABOUT BATTERY PACKS
Using Battery Power........................................................................ 3-1
Charging Battery Packs ................................................................... 3-1
Discharging Batteries .................................................................. 3-2
Battery Gauge Utility....................................................................... 3-3
Ensuring Battery Gauge Accuracy.............................................. 3-4
Guidelines for Using Battery Packs................................................. 3-4
Removing the Battery from the Battery Bay............................... 3-5
Inserting a Battery into the Battery Bay...................................... 3-5
Inserting a Battery Pack into the Computer DualBay................. 3-6
Removing Battery Pack from the DualBay.................................3-7
Resolving a Low-Battery Condition................................................ 3-7
Resolving a low-battery condition with external power.............3-7
Resolving a low-battery condition with a
fully charged battery pack........................................................... 3-8
Resolving a low-battery condition when no
power source is available ............................................................3-8
Extending Battery Pack Operating Time......................................... 3-9
Recycling Used Batteries................................................................. 3-9
chapter 4
SETTING SECURITY FEATURES
Passwords Icon................................................................................. 4-1
Power-On Password......................................................................... 4-2
Establishing a Power-On Password ............................................4-2
Entering the Power-On Password ............................................... 4-3
Deleting or Changing a Power-On Password .............................4-3
Login Password................................................................................ 4-4
Identifying Quick Controls..............................................................4-4
chapter 5
REMOVABLE DRIVES & UPGRADES
Caring for Removable Devices........................................................ 5-1
Using Removable Devices...............................................................5-2
Removing a Diskette Drive from the DualBay........................... 5-2
Inserting the Diskette Drive into the DualBay............................5-2
Inserting a Diskette into the Diskette Drive................................ 5-3
Removing a Diskette from the Diskette Drive............................ 5-3
Using Diskettes............................................................................ 5-3
Using the CD-ROM Drive ..........................................................5-4
Upgrading the Computer .................................................................5-4
Upgrading Memory.....................................................................5-5

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chapter 6
CONNECTING EXTERNAL EQUIPMENT
Using the Internal Modem ...............................................................6-1
Determining Your Modem ..........................................................6-1
Connecting the Modem Cable.....................................................6-2
Changing the Country Selection..................................................6-2
Using Communications Software................................................6-3
Setting Up the Communications Software ..................................6-4
Wireless Infrared Communications .................................................6-4
Establishing a Wireless Infrared Link.........................................6-4
chapter 7
USING PC CARDS
Types of PC Cards............................................................................7-1
The First Time a PC Card Is Inserted...............................................7-2
Inserting a PC Card..........................................................................7-3
Removing a PC Card........................................................................7-4
PC Card Software.............................................................................7-4
PC Card Solution Logo....................................................................7-5
Video Features..................................................................................7-5
chapter 8
MAINTENANCE AND TRAVEL GUIDELINES
Routine Care.....................................................................................8-1
Travel Guidelines.............................................................................8-2
Shipping Guidelines.........................................................................8-3
chapter 9
DIAGNOSTICS AND TECHNICAL SUPPORT
Compaq Utilities ..............................................................................9-1
Accessing Computer Setup and Diagnostics ...................................9-1
Computer Setup Options..............................................................9-2
Compaq Diagnostics ........................................................................9-2
Accessing Diagnostics Through F10...........................................9-3
Accessing Diagnostics in Windows ............................................9-4
Running Computer Checkup (TEST)..........................................9-4
Running View System Information (INSPECT Utility) .............9-6
Preparing for a Technical Support Call ...........................................9-7
Preparing the Computer for RemotePaq Support........................9-8

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chapter 10
TROUBLESHOOTING
Checklist.........................................................................................10-2
Interpreting Messages on the Screen.............................................10-2
Solving Minor Problems................................................................10-3
Solving Battery Problems..........................................................10-3
Solving Diskette/Diskette Drive Problems ............................... 10-6
Solving Hard Drive Problems...................................................10-7
Solving Hardware Installation Problems .................................. 10-8
Solving Keyboard and Embedded Numeric
Keypad Problems.......................................................................10-9
Solving Memory Problems......................................................10-10
Solving Modem Problems.......................................................10-11
Running the External Monitor Self-Test.................................10-15
Solving PC Card Problems......................................................10-16
Solving Pointing Device Problems .........................................10-17
Solving Power Problems.........................................................10-18
Solving Printer Problems ........................................................10-19
Solving Display Screen Problems...........................................10-20
Solving Software Problems.....................................................10-22
Solving Sound Problems.........................................................10-22
Servicing the Computer...........................................................10-22
appendix A
COMPAQ CUSTOMER SUPPORT..................................................................... A-1
appendix B
REGULATORY NOTICES ................................................................................ B-1
INDEX...........................................................................................................I-1

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chapter 1
LOOKING AT THE
COMPUTER
Your computer is equipped with convenient components and
features. This chapter familiarizes you with the location and
function of components on the computer.

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Display and Left Side Components
Display and Left Side Components
Display and Left Side of the Computer
Ref. Component Function
1Display latches Open the computer.
2USB Connector Provides connection for universal serial
bus (USB) peripheral devices. This
connector is available on selected
models.
3Modem port Provides integrated communications on
some models and is available as an
option on other models.
NOTE: Modem not available in all
countries.
4PC Card eject levers Ejects PC Cards from the slots.
5PC Card slots Accepts 32- and 16-bit credit card-sized
options called PC Cards.
6DualBay Accepts the diskette drive or a second
battery pack.

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Right Side Components
Right Side Components
Right Side of the Computer
Ref. Component Function
1Power/suspend light Lights (solid) when the computer is
turned on and plugged into AC power;
blinks in Suspend; turns off when the
computer is in Hibernation or turned off.
2Battery charge light Lights (solid) when a battery (in the
battery bay or DualBay) is charging;
blinks in low-battery condition; turns off
when operating on battery power; turns
off when fully charged.
NOTE: The power/suspend light and
battery charge light are off when the
computer is operating on battery power.
3Airflow vents Allow airflow to cool the computer.
4Battery bay Accepts rechargable battery pack.
5Stereo speaker/headphone jack Connects stereo speakers, headphone,
or headset; when connected, disables
internal speakers; requires a 3.5 mm,
3-conductor plug.
Continued

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Right Side of the Computer
Continued
Ref. Component Function
6Microphone-in jack Connects an external mono microphone;
when connected, disables internal
microphone; requires a 3.5 mm, 2-
conductor or 3-conductor plug.
7Volume control Adjusts volume of stereo speakers.
8CD-ROM drive Accepts CD-ROM disks.
NOTE: CD-ROM drive included on some
models and available as an option on
others.
9Cable lock provision Prevents theft by allowing a cable to be
connected to the computer, then secured
to a fixed object.
Volume Control Buttons
Volume level of the stereo can be changed one step at a time by
pressing and releasing the volume buttons. The left button adjusts
the volume down and the right button adjusts the volume up.
Volume level can be changed in multiple steps by pressing and
holding either button.
Pressing both buttons at the same time mutes the sound. With the
audio muted, system beeps are still audible unless they’ve been
turned off using hotkeys or the power icon.
!WARNING: To reduce the risk of personal injury, adjust the volume
control before putting on headphones.

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Rear Components
Rear Components
Rear of the Computer
Ref Component Function
1Serial connector Connects serial devices such as a mouse.
2Serial number Numerical identification for the computer.
3Parallel connector Connects parallel devices such as a printer.
4External monitor connector Connects an external CRT monitor.
5AC power connector Connects to external (AC) power.
6Docking connector Connects optional convenience base.
7Airflow vents Allow airflow to cool the computer.
8Infrared port Provides for wireless communication.
9Keyboard/mouse connector Connects keyboard and/or mouse.

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Bottom Components
Bottom Components
Bottom of the Computer
Ref Component Function
1Docking alignment guide Promotes accurate alignment when
docking the computer to a convenience
base.
2Modem compartment Provides access to upgradable modem
on some models.
3DualBay traction grip Allows a DualBay device to be removed
easily.
4DualBay release latch Releases diskette drive from the
DualBay.
5Docking restraint latch recess Helps to secure the computer to the
convenience base.
6Battery bay traction grip Allows a battery pack to be removed
easily.

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Keyboard Components
Keyboard Components
Keyboard Components
Ref Component Function
1Hard drive light Turns on when the hard drive or a CD-
ROM (data access only) is being
accessed.
2Diskette drive light Turns on when a diskette drive in the
DualBay is on or being accessed.
3Suspend button Press to initiate or exit Suspend. Press
with Fn key to initiate Hibernation.
4Built-in microphone Internal mono microphone.
5NumLock light Turns on when the numeric keypad is
active.
6Caps Lock light Turns on when the Caps Lock function is
on.
7Scroll Lock light Turns on when the Scroll Lock key is on.
8Power switch Slides to turn computer on or off.
9Stereo speakers Produce high-quality stereo sound.
:Touchpad Functions as an integrated pointing
device.
;Left and right touchpad buttons Function as left and right mouse buttons.
<Programmable keys Assign and launch frequently used
applications and documents.

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Special Function Keys
Special Function Keys
Special Function Keys
Ref Component
1Function keys F1-F12
2Screen-control keys
3Embedded numeric keypad
4Enter key
5Shift keys
6Cursor keys
7Ctrl keys
8Alt keys
9Fn key
:Caps Lock key
;Tab key
<Esc key

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Identifying Hotkeys
Hotkeys are keyboard shortcuts that enable you to access
frequently used features no matter what program you are using. To
control the size and location of the popup screens that contain
hotkey information, access the Hotkey Popup utility by clicking
Start, Settings, Control Panel. Then double-click the Display icon
and click the Hotkey tab.
Hotkey Assignments and Functions
Feature Hotkeys Function
Switching the displays Fn+F4 Toggles display among computer display,
external monitor, and simultaneous display.
Warning beeps Fn+F5 Controls volume for system warning beeps. To
increase volume, press Fn+F5, then the right
arrow key. To decrease volume, press Fn+F5,
then the left arrow key.
Quick Lock/
QuickBlank
Fn+F6 Initiates security features, QuickLock, which
disables the keyboard and mouse, and
QuickBlank, which clears the screen. Enter
power-on password to reactivate the
keyboard, mouse, and screen.
Power Management Fn+F7 Displays the power conservation settings in a
popup window.
Battery gauge Fn+F8 Displays the status of all installed battery packs
in a popup window. Press the right or down
arrow keys to select the next battery pack
status to be displayed. If a battery pack is not
present, it cannot be selected. See Chapter 3,
Learning About Battery Packs for details on
using the battery gauge.
Contrast control Fn+F9 Adjusts the display contrast on passive matrix
displays. To increase contrast, press Fn+F9,
then the right arrow key. To decrease contrast,
press Fn+F9, then the left arrow key.
Brightness control Fn+F10 Adjusts the display brightness. To increase
brightness, press Fn+F10, then the right
arrow key. To decrease brightness, press
Fn+F10, then the left arrow key.
NOTE: Hotkeys work only on the computer keyboard and not on an external
keyboard.

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Using the Embedded Numeric Keypad
The embedded numeric keypad is a section of the keyboard that
converts to a numeric keypad when the Num Lk function is
activated. This is done by pressing Fn 1and End/NumLk 3. Use
this toggle key function to enable and disable the embedded
numeric keypad 2.
NOTE: When the NumLock light 4is on, the embedded numeric
keypad is active.
Embedded Numeric Keypad
Embedded Numeric Keypad Functionality in Windows 95
With NumLock Turned On (NumLock light on)
Key Result
Numeric keypad Numbers
Function (Fn) (press and hold) Lower case letters & symbols
Fn+Shift (press and hold) Upper case letters & symbols
NOTE: Does not apply to an external numeric keypad.

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Programmable Keys
The four programmable keys at the top of the keyboard allow you
to quickly open a frequently used document or emulate one of the
Microsoft Windows Application Logo Keys. (Refer to “Keyboard
Components” in this chapter to see the location of programmable
keys.)
By assigning the programmable keys to schemes, you can create
multiple sets of key assignments to tailor your computer for
various uses or to accommodate more than one user.
To access the Programmable Keys utility, click Start, Settings,
Control Panel. Double-click the Keyboard icon and click the
Programmable Keys tab.
NOTE: Programmable keys are numbered one through four, left to
right.
IMPORTANT: For detailed information about programmable keys,
refer to the online Reference Guide.
Using the Touchpad
Touchpad and Touchpad Buttons
To operate the touchpad, move your finger across the touchpad 1
to control cursor movement. Press the bottom left 2and right 3
buttons to select items, as you would use left and right mouse
buttons on an external mouse.