Compaq Armada 1500C series 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.
© 1999 Compaq Computer Corporation.
All rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A.
Compaq, LTE and Armada are registered in the U. S. Patent and
Trademark Office.
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.
REFERENCE GUIDE
Compaq Armada 1500c Series
First Edition (February 1999)
Part Number 387710-001
Compaq Computer Corporation

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CONTENTS
preface
USING THIS GUIDE
Symbols and Conventions..................................................................ix
chapter 1
BEFORE YOU BEGIN
Getting Started..................................................................................1-1
Setting Up the Computer .............................................................1-1
Charging the Battery Pack for the First Time .............................1-1
Connecting the Power Cord.........................................................1-2
Turning On the Computer............................................................1-3
Setting Up the Software ...................................................................1-4
Operating the Computer During Setup........................................1-4
Choosing a Language...................................................................1-4
Removing the Operating System.................................................1-5
Restoring Your Operating System and
Software Preinstalled by Compaq ...............................................1-5
Completing Setup ........................................................................1-5
Finding Information.........................................................................1-6
Printed and Online References ....................................................1-6
Accessing Online Quick Reference.............................................1-6
Customer Registration Material.......................................................1-6
chapter 2
LOOKING AT THE COMPUTER
Left Side Components......................................................................2-1
Front and Right Side Components...................................................2-2
Rear Components.............................................................................2-3
Bottom Components.........................................................................2-4

vi Contents
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Keyboard Components ....................................................................2-5
Special Function Keys.................................................................2-6
Programmable Keys ....................................................................2-7
Using the Embedded Numeric Keypad.......................................2-8
Using the Touchpad......................................................................... 2-9
Customizing Touchpad Functions............................................... 2-9
Cleaning the Touchpad................................................................ 2-9
chapter 3
MANAGING POWER
Using the Power Switch................................................................... 3-1
Restarting the Computer.............................................................. 3-2
When to Turn Off the Computer or Initiate Suspend .................3-2
Using Suspend .................................................................................3-3
How Suspend Is Initiated ............................................................3-3
Results of Suspend ...................................................................... 3-3
Exiting Suspend...........................................................................3-4
Using Hibernation............................................................................3-4
Initiating Hibernation.................................................................. 3-5
Exiting Hibernation..................................................................... 3-5
chapter 4
LEARNING ABOUT BATTERY PACKS
Using Battery Power........................................................................4-1
Charging Battery Packs ...................................................................4-2
Discharging Batteries .................................................................. 4-3
Guidelines for Using Battery Packs.................................................4-3
Removing a Battery Pack from the Battery Bay......................... 4-3
Inserting a Battery Pack into the Battery Bay............................. 4-4
Adding a Second Battery Pack....................................................4-4
Removing a Battery Pack from the DualBay..............................4-4
chapter 5
USING THE INTERNAL MODEM
Understanding How the Modem Works..........................................5-1
Connecting the Modem Cable......................................................... 5-2
Changing the Country Selection...................................................... 5-2

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chapter 6
USING PC CARDS
Types of PC Cards............................................................................6-1
The First Time a PC Card Is Inserted...............................................6-2
Inserting and Removing a PC Card.............................................6-2
PC Card Software.............................................................................6-3
Video Features..................................................................................6-3
chapter 7
UPGRADING THE COMPUTER
Upgrading Memory..........................................................................7-1
Upgrading the Hard Drive................................................................7-5
Adding an Optical Disc Drive..........................................................7-5
chapter 8
Checklist...........................................................................................8-1
Troubleshooting...........................................................................8-2
Technical Support ............................................................................8-4
appendix A
COMPAQ CUSTOMER SUPPORT..................................................................A-1
appendix B
REGULATORY NOTICES .............................................................................B-1
INDEX .......................................................................................................I-1

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preface
USING THIS GUIDE
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 equipment damage or loss of information.

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chapter 1
BEFORE YOU BEGIN
This chapter provides information on how to first set up your
computer, where to find additional references, and customer
registration information, and understanding symbols and
conventions used in this.
Getting Started
Setting Up the Computer
Before you set up the computer for the first time, ensure that
■ The computer is plugged into external power.
■ The computer is not docked in a docking station.
!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.
Charging the Battery Pack for the First Time
The battery pack begins to charge when the computer is connected
to external power.
Although a new battery pack can be used to power the computer
after receiving a partial charge, Compaq recommends that a new
battery pack be allowed to fully charge before the computer is
disconnected from external power or before the battery pack is
removed from the computer.

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Connecting the Power Cord
1. Plug the AC Adapter cable 1into the power connector.
2. Plug the power cord 2the AC Adapter.
3. Plug the AC Adapter cable 3into an electrical outlet.
!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.
■ Do not attempt to power the computer with a voltage converter
kit sold for appliances.
■ 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/Aircraft 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 outlet, grasp
the cord by the plug.

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Turning On the Computer
1. Open the computer by locating the display release latches 1
on both sides of the display, sliding them forward, and
raising the display 2.
2. Then slide the power switch 1to turn on the computer. The
power/Suspend light 2indicates the computer is on.

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Setting Up the Software
When you begin software setup, online instructions guide you
through the setup process.
IMPORTANT: After you begin software setup, you must complete
the entire process, which may require up to 20 minutes. Make sure
the computer is plugged in for this process to ensure that software
setup is uninterrupted.
CAUTION: To prevent file corruption and ensure the correct
software drivers are installed:
■ Do not dock the computer in a docking station.
■ Do not turn off or unplug the computer or remove a drive during
software setup.
Operating the Computer During Setup
■ To move around the screen :
❏ press the Tab key,
❏ press the cursor (arrow) keys, or
❏ use the touchpad built into the computer keyboard.
■ To save your selections, press the Enter key or press one of
the touchpad buttons below the touchpad on the computer
keyboard.
■ To restore the screen if it is cleared by the screen saver during
a period of keyboard and touchpad inactivity, press the Shift
key.
For more information about using the touchpad and touchpad
buttons, refer to Chapter 2, “Using the Touchpad.”
Choosing a Language
If you are prompted to select your language, choose carefully.
IMPORTANT: The languages that you do not choose will be deleted
from the computer and cannot be recovered.

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Removing the Operating System
Microsoft Windows 98 is preinstalled on the computer. Compaq
has enhanced the preinstalled version of this operating system to
provide you with additional software features and increased
computer functionality.
Before deleting the operating system preinstalled on the computer,
please read the following caution:
CAUTION:
■ Replacing the preinstalled version of this operating system with a
retail version will result in the loss of all enhancements added by
Compaq such as PC Card support and enhanced power
management.
■ Most preinstalled reference files, such as Help files, are available
only through the Windows interface. If Windows is removed from
the computer, these reference files will become unavailable.
■ Complete USB support is available only through the Windows
interface. If the operating system preinstalled on the computer is
replaced by an operating system other than this Windows
version, USB support will be decreased.
Restoring Your Operating System and Software
Preinstalled by Compaq
In addition to the preinstalled operating system, Compaq installs
other software to provide additional functionality or
enhancements. If it is necessary to reinstall the operating system
and you do not want to lose these enhancements, it will also be
necessary to reinstall all Compaq software for your computer. Use
the Restore Software CD that comes with your computer to restore
software on your hard drive.
Completing Setup
Compaq recommends that you:
■ Register the computer.
■ Locate the Compaq online resources, such as the online Quick
Reference and the online Safety & Comfort Guide.

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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 Reference Guide, the following printed
references come with your computer:
■ Quick setup poster
■ Microsoft operating system manual
■ Safety & Comfort Guide
■ Warranty and service information
■ Important Modem Information
The Compaq online references preinstalled on your computer are
the Armada Quick Reference and the Safety & Comfort Guide.
Other online references installed on the computer include
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: The Armada Quick Reference is available only through
Internet Explorer 4.0 or later. If you remove Internet Explorer, the
online references will no longer be accessible.
Accessing Online Quick Reference
To access the online Quick Reference, click Start £Compaq
Information Center £Compaq Armada Quick Reference. Or click
the Armada Quick Reference icon on the desktop.
Customer Registration Material
In North America, Compaq provides information in the packing
box on how to register your new product.

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chapter 2
LOOKING AT THE COMPUTER
Left Side Components
Ref. Component Function
1Power connector Connects to external power.
2Modem port Provides integrated communications
on some models.
3PC Card eject levers Ejects PC Cards from the slots.
4PC Card slots Supports Type II or Type III PC
Cards. These slots accept 16-bit and
32-bit PC Cards.
5DualBay Supports a diskette drive or a second
battery pack.

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Front and Right Side Components
Ref. Component Function
1Power/suspend light Lights (solid) when computer is on and
plugged into power; blinks in Suspend;
turns off when the computer is in
Hibernation or shut off.
2Battery charge light Lights (solid) when a battery is
charging; blinks in low battery condition;
turns off when operating on battery
power or when battery is fully charged.
NOTE: Both lights are off when the
computer is operating on battery power.
3Airflow vents Allow airflow to cool the computer.
4Battery bay Accepts the main 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.
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. Use
the left button to lower the volume and
the right button to increase the volume.
Pressing both buttons at the same time
mutes th sound. System beeps are still
audible unless they have been disabled.
Continued

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Front and Right Side Components
Continued
8CD-ROM drive Supports a CD-ROM or DVD-ROM disc.
Included on some models, available as
option on others.
9Cable lock provision Prevents theft by allowing a cable to
connect the computer to a fixed object.
!WARNING: To reduce the risk of personal injury, adjust the volume
control before putting on headphones.
Rear Components
Ref Component Function
1Serial connector Connects a serial device such as a
mouse.
2Serial number Numerical identification for the
computer.
3Parallel connector Connects a parallel device such as a
printer.
4External monitor
connector Connects an external monitor.
5Docking connector Connects an optional convenience
base.
Continued

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Ref Component Function
6Airflow vents Allow airflow to cool the computer.
7USB (universal serial
bus) connector Provides connection for (USB) peripheral devices. Available on
selected models.
8Keyboard/mouse
connector Connects the keyboard and/or mouse.
Bottom Components
Ref Component Function
1Docking alignment guide Ensures accurate alignment when
docking the computer to an
optional convenience base.
2Modem compartment Provides access to internal
modem. (The modem is available
on selected models only.)
3DualBay traction grip Allows a DualBay device to be
removed easily.
4DualBay release latch Releases a diskette drive from the
DualBay.
5Docking restraint latch
recess Helps to secure the computer to an optional convenience base.
6Battery bay traction grip Allows a battery pack to be
removed easily.

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Keyboard Components
Ref Component Function
1Hard drive light Turns on when the hard drive or a
CD-ROM/DVD-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 embedded
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
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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Hotkeys are keyboard shortcuts that enable you to access
frequently used features no matter what program you are using.
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.
QuickLock/
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 for
Windows 95 only.
Battery gauge Fn+F8 Displays the status of all installed
battery packs in a popup window. Press
the right or down arrow keys to display
the status of the next battery pack. If a
battery pack is not present, it cannot be
selected. See “Battery Packs” in the
Quick Reference 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.
Programmable Keys
To access the Programmable Keys utility, click Start £
Settings £Control Panel £double-click the Keyboard icon £
Programmable Keys tab.

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IMPORTANT: For detailed information about programmable keys,
refer to the online Quick Reference. To access the online Quick
Reference, click Start £Compaq Information Center £Compaq
Armada Quick Reference. Or click the Armada Quick Reference
icon on the desktop.
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 1+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 Functions
With NumLock Turned On (NumLock light on)
Key Result
Numeric keypad Numbers
Function (Fn) (press and hold) Lowercase letters & symbols
Fn+Shift (press and hold) Uppercase letters & symbols
NOTE:Does not apply to an external numeric keypad.

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Using the Touchpad
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.
You can single- and double-tap the touchpad to select and activate
items. You can also use the buttons and touchpad to click and drag
objects across the screen.
Customizing Touchpad Functions
To customize the touchpad functions, click Start £Settings £
Control Panel £double-click the mouse icon.
Cleaning the Touchpad
To clean the touchpad, follow these steps:
1. Turn off the computer.
2. Remove the battery pack(s) and disconnect the power cord.
Wipe the touchpad gently with a clean, dry cloth.
3. To remove stubborn stains, wipe the touchpad with a damp
cloth moistened with a small amount of dishwashing
detergent.