Compaq Armada 4100 User manual

Reference Guide Compaq Armada 4100 Family of Personal Computers
228988-003
Reference Guide
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Compaq Armada 4100 Family of Personal Computers
• Components and Features
• Maximizing Battery Life
• Computer Upgrades
• Diagnostics
• Troubleshooting
COVE.PM5 9/19/97, 2:40 PM1

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Part Number 228988-003 - - Writer: Lorise Fazio - Saved Date: 08/15/96 9:56 AM
File Name NO-US-EN.DOC
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.
1996 Compaq Computer Corporation.
All rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A.
Compaq, Deskpro, LTE, Contura
Registered U. S. Patent and Trademark Office.
Presario is a trademark of Compaq Computer Corporation.
Contura Registered in the Philippines Patent Office.
Armada is a trademark of Compaq Computer Corporation.
Microsoft and MS-DOS are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
Windows is a trademark 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 4100 Family of
Personal Computers
Third Edition (November 1996)
First Edition (May 1996)
Part Number 228988-003
Compaq Computer Corporation

Part Number 228988-003 - - Writer: Lorise Fazio - - Saved date: 08/15/96 9:56 AM
File Name T:\docs\codename\partnumber\NO-US-EN.DOC

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Agency
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Part Number: 228988-003 - Writer: Lorise Fazio - Saved by: Johnnie Abercrombie
Saved date: 09/24/97 2:36 PM- File Name: Agency.doc
Federal Communications
Commission Notice
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the
limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to 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 can radiate radio frequency energy
and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions,
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:
■Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
■Increase the separation between the equipment and the 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 or television
technician for help.
Modifications
The FCC requires the user to be notified that any changes or
modifications made to this device that are not expressly approved by
Compaq Computer Corporation may void the user's authority to
operate the equipment.
Declaration of Conformity - United States Only
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation 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.
For questions regarding this declaration, contact:
Compaq Computer Corporation
P.O. Box 692000, Mail Stop 510101
Houston, Texas 77269-2000
Or call 514-3333
To identify this product, refer to the Series number found on the product.
Cables

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Connections to this device must be made with shielded cables with
metallic RFI/EMI connector hoods to maintain compliance with FCC
Rules and Regulations.
Airline Travel Notice
Use of electronic equipment aboard commercial aircraft is at the
discretion of the airline.
European Notice
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
■EN50082-1 (IEC801-2, IEC801-3, IEC801-4)-Electromagnetic
Immunity
■EN60950 (IEC950)-Product Safety
Canadian Notice
This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the
Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations.
Avis Canadien
Cet appareil numérique de la classe B respecte toutes les exigences
du Règlement sur le matériel brouilleur du Canada.
Japanese Notice
Title: NOTICE.EPS
Creator: CorelDRAW!
CreationDate: Thu May 12 13:24:40 1994

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Part Number: 228988-003 - Writer: Lorise Fazio - Saved by: Johnnie Abercrombie
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Battery Notice
!WARNING: Your computer is provided with a Lithium battery-powered
Real-Time Clock circuit. There is a danger of explosion and risk of
personal injury if the battery is incorrectly replaced or not handled
properly. Do not attempt to recharge the battery, disassemble it,
immerse it in water, or dispose of it in fire. Replacement is to be done
by a Compaq authorized service provider using the Compaq spare
designated for this product.
!WARNING: Your computer contains an internal Nickel Metal Hydride
or Lithium Ion Battery Pack. There is risk of fire and chemical burns if
the battery pack is not handled properly. Do not disassemble, crush,
puncture, short external contacts, or dispose of in fire or water. Do
not expose to temperatures higher than 60° C.
Battery packs and the Real Time Clock Battery should be recycled
or disposed of according to local regulations.
Energy Star Compliance
Compaq notebook computers are compliant with the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Energy Star Computers
Program. The Energy Star Computers Program was created by the
EPA to promote energy efficiency and reduce air pollution through
more energy-efficient equipment in homes, offices and factories.
Compaq products achieve this by reducing the power consumption
when not being used. Using the power-saving features will reduce
energy use and maximize battery life.

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Table of Contents ix
Writer: Lorise Fazio - Saved by: Johnnie Abercrombie - Saved date: 09/19/97 3:22 PM
Part Number: 228099-003 - File name: TOC.DOC
Contents
Preface
Using This Guide........................................................ xv
Chapter 1
Finding Information About Your Computer
Printed and Online References...................................1-1
Ordering Backup Diskettes........................................1-2
Customer Registration Material.................................1-2
Online Options Guide................................................1-2
Worldwide Telephone Numbers ................................1-3
Chapter 2
Taking a Look at the Computer
Front and Left Side Components ...............................2-2
Front and Right Side Components.............................2-3
Keyboard Components...............................................2-4
Status Panel Lights.....................................................2-5
Rear Components.......................................................2-6
Bottom Components..................................................2-7
Versatile Handle ........................................................2-8
Chapter 3
Using Keyboard Shortcuts
User-Programmable Keys..........................................3-2
Assigning Programmable Keys...........................3-2
Unassigning User-Programmable Keys...............3-3
Adding Schemes..................................................3-4
Removing Schemes.............................................3-4
Key Assignments on the Taskbar........................3-4
Using the Hotkeys......................................................3-5
Customizing the Popup Window.........................3-7
Using Special Function Keys.....................................3-7
Using the Numeric Keypad........................................3-9
Chapter 4
Working with Pointing Devices
Mouse Utility.............................................................4-2
Touchpad Components ..............................................4-3

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Trackball Components...............................................4-4
Removing a Pointing Device .....................................4-5
Installing a Pointing Device.......................................4-7
Chapter 5
Managing Power
Using the Power Button.............................................5-2
Power Choices.....................................................5-2
Using the Suspend Button..........................................5-3
How Suspend Is Initiated ....................................5-3
Initiating Suspend................................................5-4
Exiting Suspend ..................................................5-4
Using Hibernation......................................................5-5
Initiating Hibernation..........................................5-5
Exiting Hibernation.............................................5-6
Using AC Power........................................................5-7
Using Battery Power..................................................5-9
Battery Charging/Discharging.............................5-9
Removing and Inserting Battery Packs.............. 5-10
Removing the DualBay Battery......................... 5-12
Inserting a DualBay Battery.............................. 5-13
Removing the MCD Weight Saver Module ......5-14
Inserting a Modular Battery in the MCD........... 5-15
Resolving a Low-Battery Condition..................5-16
Extending Battery Pack Operating Time........... 5-17
Charging the Battery Pack(s)............................. 5-18
Recycling Used Batteries in North America......5-19
Recycling Used Batteries in Europe.................. 5-19

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Power Properties Utility...........................................5-20
Battery Status Tab.............................................5-20
Setting Battery Conservation Levels.................5-21
Setting a Timeout.............................................. 5-22
Turning Hibernation On or Off .........................5-23
Using the AC Energy Saver ..............................5-24
The Battery Gauge Popup ................................. 5-25
Chapter 6
Working with Removable Devices
Working with the Handle...........................................6-2
Detaching the Handle..........................................6-2
Attaching the Handle...........................................6-4
DualBay Devices ....................................................... 6-6
Removing the Diskette Drive
from the DualBay................................................6-6
Inserting the Diskette Drive
into the DualBay .................................................6-7
Using the Diskette Drive Externally ..........................6-8
Chapter 7
Maximizing Your Mobile CD Expansion Unit (MCD)
MCD Components.....................................................7-2
Front and Left Side Components.........................7-2
Right and Back Side Components.......................7-3
Attaching the Computer to the MCD.........................7-4
Detaching the Computer from the MCD.................... 7-7
Chapter 8
Enjoying Compaq Audio
Identifying Built-in Audio Components ....................8-2
External Audio Jacks...........................................8-3
Stereo Line-In Jack..............................................8-4
Internal Microphone............................................8-5
Volume Control ......................................................... 8-6
Using the Stereo Speakers..........................................8-7
Chapter 9
Connecting External Equipment
Device Manager Utility.............................................. 9-2
Add New Hardware Icon ...........................................9-2
Using PC Cards..........................................................9-3

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Inserting a PC Card.............................................9-4
Removing a PC Card...........................................9-4
PC Card Software................................................9-5
Using Telephony Features...................................9-5
Connecting a TV or VCR....................................9-6
Connecting Infrared Equipment ..........................9-7
Chapter 10
Adding Software and Upgrades
Installing Software...................................................10-2
Operating System Support.......................................10-2
Adding Memory....................................................... 10-2
Upgrading................................................................10-3
Chapter 11
Setting Security Features
Setting Passwords Properties ................................... 11-2
Power-On Password.................................................11-2
Establishing a Power-On Password ..................11-2
Entering the Power-On Password......................11-3
Deleting/Changing Power-On Password........... 11-3
If You Forget Your Power-On Password ..........11-3
Establishing a Setup Password................................. 11-4
Deleting/Changing a Setup Password................11-5
Identifying Quick Controls ......................................11-5
Initiating Quick Controls...................................11-6
Using a Cable Lock.................................................. 11-7

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Writer: Lorise Fazio - Saved by: Johnnie Abercrombie - Saved date: 09/19/97 3:22 PM
Part Number: 228099-003 - File name: TOC.DOC
Chapter 12
Caring for the Computer
Routine Care............................................................12-2
Travel Guidelines.....................................................12-3
Shipping Guidelines.................................................12-4
Chapter 13
Diagnostics
Accessing Diagnostics ............................................. 13-1
Accessing Diagnostics from Windows..............13-1
Running Computer Checkup (TEST).......................13-2
Running The View System Information
(Inspect Utility)........................................................ 13-4
Chapter 14
Troubleshooting
Checklist..................................................................14-1
Interpreting Messages on the Screen....................... 14-2
Solving Minor Problems..........................................14-2
Solving Battery Problems..................................14-3
Solving Diskette/Diskette Drive Problems........ 14-6
Solving Hard Drive Problems ...........................14-7
Solving Hardware Installation Problems........... 14-8
Solving Keyboard and Embedded
Numeric Keypad Problems................................14-9
Solving Memory Problems.............................. 14-10
Running the Monitor Self-Test........................ 14-10
Solving PC Card Problems..............................14-11
Solving Power Problems................................. 14-13
Solving Printer Problems.................................14-14
Solving Display Screen Problems ................... 14-15
Solving Software Application Problems .........14-17
Solving Sound Problems.................................14-17

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Writer: Lorise Fazio - Saved by: Johnnie Abercrombie - Saved date: 09/19/97 3:22 PM
Part Number: 228099-003 - File name: TOC.DOC
Solving Pointing Device Problems..................14-18
Cleaning the Trackball ....................................14-20
Cleaning Inside the Trackball Assembly......... 14-21
Servicing the Computer...................................14-22
Preparing for a Call to Customer Support ....... 14-23
POST Error Messages ..................................................................A-1
Connector Pin Asgnments...........................................................B-1
Appendix C
Power Cord Set Requirements
General Requirements............................................... C-1
Country-Specific Requirements................................ C-2
Appendix D
Electrostatic Discharge
Preventing Electrostatic Discharge ........................... D-1
Grounding Methods .................................................. D-1
Appendix E
Regulatory Agency Identification Numbers ...............................E-1
Appendix F
Specifications ..............................................................................F-1
Index..............................................................................................I-1

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Preface
Preface xv
Part Number: 228988-001 File Name: Preface
Writer: Dianne Fielden Saved Date: September 25, 1997 11:47 AM
Using This Guide
The following format conventions distinguish elements of the text
throughout this guide:
■Key names appear in a boldfaced type looking very much the
way they appear on the keyboard; for example, Home, End,
Backspace, Tab.
■When keys must be pressed at the same time, the action is
represented by the key names and the plus (+) symbol; for
example, Ctrl+Alt+Delete.
■Drive letters that are not in command lines are presented in
uppercase type as shown here: drive A.
■Directory names that are not in command lines are presented in
uppercase type as shown here: DIRECTORY.
■The file names are presented in uppercase italic type
as shown here: FILENAME.
■The names of commands are presented in lowercase, bold type as
shown here: install, or a:\install. Commands that are to be
entered at the system prompt may be shown on a separate line.
■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.
The following words and symbols mark special messages
throughout this guide:
!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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xvi Preface
Part Number; 228988-001 - Writer: Dianne Fielden - Saved by; Johnnie Abercrombie
Saved date: 09/25/97 10:53 AM - File Name: PREFACE.DOC
IMPORTANT: Text set off in this manner presents clarifying
information or specific instructions.
NOTE: Text set off in this manner presents commentary, sidelights,
or interesting points of information.

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Chapter 1
Finding Information
About Your Computer
In this chapter you will learn about the references that come with
your computer and where to find them.
References are provided for you in two ways:
■As printed materials
■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
The following printed references come with your computer:
■Quick Setup
■Reference Guide
■Introducing Microsoft Windows 95
■Safety & Comfort Guide
■Compaq Answers Your PC Card Questions
■Backup Diskettes Card
■Kensington Security Card
■Warranty and service information
The following Compaq online references are preinstalled on your
computer:
■Compaq Reference Guide
■Microsoft Windows 95
■Safety & Comfort Guide
■Compaq Dictionary
■Product Tutorial
■Options Catalog
The online references installed on the computer include tutorials,
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.
Finding Information About Your Computer 1-1
Part Number: 228988-001 - Writer: JohnnieA - Saved by: Kelly Townsend
Saved date: 12/20/95- File Name: CH1.DOC

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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 not
delete Windows software.
Ordering Backup Diskettes
Compaq recommends that you create a backup of the software
preinstalled on the computer. Or, for an additional cost, you can
order a backup CD or diskettes from Compaq for all software
preinstalled on this computer.
To order backup diskettes or CDs, refer to the Worldwide Telephone
Numbers listed in this chapter. 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 bottom of your computer. This number is
necessary for all backup diskette or CD purchases.
Customer Registration Material
In North America Compaq provides a fast, toll-free number to
register your new product: Call 1-800-AT-COMPAQ to register
with one of our representatives. Our convenient toll-free number has
operators standing by to take your registration.
Online Options Guide
To learn more about the many Compaq options designed to enhance
your computer, go to Compaq Information Center on the Windows
Start menu.
1-2 Finding Information About Your Computer
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Worldwide Telephone Numbers
Locate your geographical area from the following table and use one
of the telephone numbers for Compaq assistance.
General Information Numbers—Product information, technical
assistance, and the location of your nearest Compaq authorized
dealer, reseller, or service provider.
Technical Support Numbers—Hardware technical support in
analyzing system configuration and diagnostic problems or
troubleshooting.
Customer Support Numbers—Information on service and support
programs including warranty, product catalogs, and white papers.
PaqFax Numbers—Automatic facsimile response system for
technical and product specific information that is transmitted to any
fax machine. PaqFax is available 24 hours a day.
NOTE: Telephone numbers are subject to change without notice.
Worldwide Telephone Numbers
Location Telephone Number
Argentina
General Information 54-1-796-1616
Technical Support 54-1-796-1717
Australia
General Information 61-2-911-1999
Technical Support 61-2-911-1955
PaqFax 61-2-911-1982
Austria
General Information 0222/8 78-16 16
Technical Support 0222/8 78-16-16
Ordering backup diskettes 0031/55/38 43 39
Bahrain
General Information 973-210-214
Continued
Finding Information About Your Computer 1-3
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Worldwide Telephone Numbers
Continued
Location Telephone Number
Belgium
General Information 32-2-725-1690
Technical Support 02-716-96-96
Brazil
General Information 55-11-246-7866
Canada
General Information 416-733-7876
Technical Support 1-800-OKCOMPAQ
(1-800-652-6672)
Customer Support 1-800-263-5868
Ordering backup diskettes 1-800-952-7689
Battery pack recycling 1-800-263-5868
Caribbean
General Information 011-713-374-4220
Technical Support 011-713-378-2200
Chile
General Information 56-2-274-1911
Technical Support 56-2-274-3007
China
General Information 861-849-2928
Technical Support 861-849-2913
Colombia
General Information 57-1-312-0201
Technical Support 57-1-345-0266
Czech Republic
General Information 42-2-232-8772
Technical Support 42-2-232-8772
Denmark
General Information 45-45-90-45-90
Technical Support 45-45-90-45-45
Continued
1-4 Finding Information About Your Computer
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Worldwide Telephone Numbers
Continued
Location Telephone Number
Finland
General Information 358-0-615-599
Technical Support 9800-206-720
France
General Information 33-1-41-33-4100
Technical Support 33-1-41334455
Germany
InfoLine (General Information) 0130/68 68
Technical Support 0180/5 21 21 11
QuickLine 089/99 33-13 80
Ordering backup diskettes 0130/81 10 81
Hong Kong
General Information 852-28681382
Technical Support 852-90116633
PaqFax 852-28671648
Hungary
General Information 36-1-201-8776
Technical Support 36-1-201-8776
India
General Information 91-80-559-6023
91-80-559-6024
Italy
General Information 39-2-57-59-03-61
Technical Support 02-575-90300
Customer Support 01-6782-5012
Japan
General Information 81-3-5402-5700
Technical Support 81-0120-101589
PaqFax 81-3-5402-0991
Continued
Finding Information About Your Computer 1-5
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Saved date: 12/20/95 - File Name: CH1.DOC