Compaq Armada 6500 User manual

COMPAQ CONFIDENTIAL - NEED TO KNOW REQUIRED
Author: Johnnie Abercrombie Last Saved By: Lorise Fazio Part No. ER-PM1AC-IM.A01
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 Korea.
COMPAQ, ARMADA, and LTE are registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
Microsoft, MS-DOS, Windows, Windows NT, and other names of Microsoft products mentioned
herein are trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
All other product names mentioned herein may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their
respective companies.
Software described herein 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.
COMPAQ ARMADA 6500 CONVENIENCE BASE
Installation and Operations Guide
First Edition October 1998
Part Number ER-PM1AC-IM.A01
Compaq Computer Corporation

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File Name: TOC.doc
Table of Contents
1 Introduction
Contents of Packing Box..................................................................................... 1-1
For Further Information....................................................................................... 1-2
Identifying the Components................................................................................. 1-2
Front and Right Side Components.................................................................. 1-2
Rear Components............................................................................................ 1-4
2 Docking and Undocking
Docking the Computer......................................................................................... 2-1
Connecting External Devices.......................................................................... 2-3
Connecting the Universal AC Adapter............................................................ 2-3
Turning On the System ................................................................................... 2-3
Configuring for a Desktop System.................................................................. 2-3
Undocking the Computer..................................................................................... 2-4
Charging a Battery Using the Convenience Base............................................... 2-6
3 Connecting to an Ethernet Network
Connecting to a Twisted Pair Ethernet Network.................................................3-1
Installing Network Drivers...................................................................................3-2

Contents
Contents vi
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File Name: TOC.doc
A Troubleshooting
Solving Minor Problems..................................................................................... A-1
Worldwide Telephone Numbers......................................................................... A-7
B Federal Communications Commission Notice..............................B-1
C Power Cord Set Requirement.................................................................C-1

1-1
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1
Introduction
The Compaq Armada 6500 notebook can be used as a full office personal computer by
connecting it to the Armada 6500 Convenience Base. The convenience base eliminates the
need to disconnect and reconnect several desktop devices each time you move your
notebook onto or off of your desk.
The Armada 6500 Convenience Base features a full port replication, a battery charge bay,
and includes a port for a physical locking device that provides security for your computer by
allowing you to fasten it to your desk. Your printer, keyboard, or monitor stays connected to
the convenience base, whether the computer is docked or undocked.
This guide provides information on docking and undocking the computer to and from the
convenience base and procedures on operating.
Contents of Packing Box
Before you began, ensure that you have removed everything from the packing box. In
addition to this guide, you should have the following:
•Armada 6500 Convenience Base
•AC Adapter with power cord
•Warranty and service information

Introduction
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For Further Information
For additional information on using the computer refer to the Reference Guide included
with the computer.
The convenience base is covered by a one-year warranty. Refer to the warranty and service
information included with this product to determine country, type, and terms of coverage.
Identifying the Components
Front and Right Side Components
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Introduction
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Component Functional Description
❶Battery Charging Bay Charges a battery with or without the computer
docked.
❷Charge light When lit, indicates that the battery in the battery
charging bay is charging.
❸Undock request button Press to send an undock request to the operating
system.
❹Docking light When lit, indicates that the device is docked. When
the light is off, indicates that the device is undocked
or it is safe to undock the computer.
❺Release button Press to undock the computer. The release button
is provided on both the right and left sides of the
convenience base. When the docking light is on or
if the Dock Security feature is enabled and the
correct password was not entered, the buttons are
locked.
❻Docking connector Mates to the docking connector on the computer.

Introduction
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Rear Components
DEC01200
Component Functional Description
❶External power-in Input connection for the universal AC adapter.
❷Mouse connector Connect a PS/2 type mouse to this port.
❸RJ45 network interface port Connect a 10 to 100BaseT Ethernet line to this
port.
❹Serial port Connect a serial device such as a mouse or
graphics tablet to this port.
❺Parallel port Connect a parallel device such as a printer to this
port.
❻Video port Connect an external monitor to this port.
❼USB port Connect a Universal Serial Bus (USB) device, such
as a mouse, keyboard, or scanner to this port.
❽Keyboard connector Connect a PS/2 type keyboard to this connector.

2-1
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2
Docking and Undocking
This chapter provides information on docking and undocking the computer to and from the
Armada 6500 Convenience Base.
Docking the Computer
The Armada 6500 Convenience Base supports hot docking with the computer. When
docking the notebook to the Armada 6500 Convenience Base, there is no need to place the
computer in Suspend or turn it off. It also supports hot docking of the Mobile 6500
Expansion Unit with the computer attached.
To dock the computer to the convenience base, follow these steps:
1. Close the I/O connector cover on the rear of the computer.
2. Slide open the docking connector cover ❶on the bottom side of the computer.
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Docking and Undocking
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3. Slide the computer into the convenience base ❷. It is not necessary to close the computer.
4. To ensure connection, press down on the rear of the computer to engage the docking connectors
❸that secure the computer to the expansion unit.
DEC01148
__________________________Note __________________________
When shipped, the computer display is set to LCD Display and External Monitor
(simul scan) mode. If the monitor does not appear to receive a signal from the
computer, press Fn + F4 to ensure the computer is not in the LCD Display
mode.

Docking and Undocking
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Connecting External Devices
To connect external devices to the convenience base:
1. Turn off power to the computer, convenience base, and all devices.
2. Connect external devices and turn on power to all devices, if applicable.
__________________________Note __________________________
To complete the device connections, some manufactures require you to install
software drivers. Refer to the documentation included with the device for
details.
Connecting the Universal AC Adapter
To connect the AC adapter:
1. Connect the adapter to the external power-in connector on the convenience base.
2. Plug the small end of the power cord into the adapter.
3. Plug the power cord into an electrical outlet.
Turning On the System
To turn on the computer and convenience base system:
1. Turn on all external devices connected to the convenience base.
2. Press the power button on the computer.
Configuring for a Desktop System
If you’re using the computer in a desktop environment, configure the computer Lid Switch
function to Desktop CRT using the System Setup Program. When set to Desktop/CRT
mode, the system is prevented from entering Suspend when the display is closed. This
allows you to emulate a desktop computer using an external monitor. Refer to the Reference
Guide that came with your computer for additional information on Lid Switch settings.

Docking and Undocking
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Undocking the Computer
The Armada 6500 Convenience Base supports hot undocking from the computer. When
undocking the computer from the convenience base, there is no need to place the computer
in Suspend or turn it off. It also supports hot undocking of the Mobile 6500 Expansion Unit
with the computer connected.
__________________________Note __________________________
When the Password on Undock feature is enabled in System Setup, you cannot undock the
computer from the convenience base if the system is in Suspend or power is turned off. The
system will need to be turned on and the Undock Request button pressed or make an
Undock request from Windows.
To undock the computer from the convenience base, follow these steps:
Undocking the computer with power turned on
1. Press the undock request button ❶on the right side of the convenience base or make an undock
request from Windows.
2. If the Password on Undock feature is enabled, you will be prompted to enter a password before
the undock request is recognized.
3. Wait for the docking light ❷, next to the undock request button, to turn off.
4. Simultaneously press the release buttons ❸on the left and rights of the convenience base.
5. Lift the computer up and away ❹from the convenience base.

Docking and Undocking
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Undocking the computer with power turned off
1. Simultaneously press the release buttons ❸on the left and right sides of the convenience base.
2. Lift the computer up and away ❹from the Expansion unit.
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Charging a Battery Using the
Convenience Base
The Armada 6500 Convenience Base provides a bay to charge a main battery pack. You can
charge a battery with or without the computer docked to the convenience base.
To charge a battery pack:
1. Place the main battery pack in the Battery Charging Bay ❶.
2. Ensure that the battery is securely seated in the charge bay ❷.
3. Connect the AC adapter power cord ❸to the external power connector.
4. The charge light is lit ❹, indicating the main battery is charging. When the light goes out, the
battery is fully charged.
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3-1
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3
Connecting to an
Ethernet Networ
k
The Armada 6500 Convenience Base is equipped to connect to a twisted pair Ethernet
network using an RJ45 jack. The convenience base is designed for 10- or 100-megabits-per-
second Ethernet operation.
Connecting to a Twisted Pair
Ethernet Network
Networks that conform to the 10BaseT or 100BaseT standard use an unshielded twisted pair
cable with RJ45 jacks at each end.
_________________________ Warning_________________________
!To reduce the risk of electrical shock, fire, or damage to the
equipment, do not plug a telephone cable into the Ethernet RJ45 jack.
To connect the convenience base to a twisted pair (10BaseT or 100BaseT) Ethernet
network:
1. Plug the twisted pair cable into the RJ45 jack on the convenience base.
2. Connect the other end of the twisted pair cable to the main network connector.

Connecting to an Ethernet Network
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___________________________Note __________________________
Be sure both jacks are seated properly.
3. Install the network drivers required by the operating system.
Installing Network Drivers
Network drivers enable the computer to communicate with the network. These drivers are
preloaded on the computer and are provided on the system CD-ROM included with your
computer.
Instructions for installing the drivers are contained on the system CD-ROM. To access the
instructions:
1. Connect the convenience base to the network.
2. Dock the computer in the convenience base.
3. Turn on the system.
4. Open the instructions using Windows by clicking Start
Å Run. Type D:\readme.com and
click OK.
5. Select the operating system that is used on the computer.
6. Open the Readme.txt file for that operating system.
7. Follow the instructions for installing drivers.

A-1
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A
Troubleshooting
This appendix provides information on how to identify and correct common problems that
you may encounter while using your computer with the convenience base. Troubleshooting
information is provided for:
•Docking and undocking the computer
•External device installation
•External keyboard
•Mouse
•Network
•For error messages and possible problems that are not specifically related to using the
computer with the convenience base, refer to the troubleshooting section of the Reference
Guide that comes with the computer.
Solving Minor Problems
While your computer is configured for your particular hardware and software, problems you
encounter while working may not be unique. Eliminating the typical problems described in
this section may save you time and money. If you have a problem with your computer,
consider the possible causes and solutions outlined in the following tables. You may
discover something you can resolve easily yourself. If the condition persists, contact your
Compaq authorized dealer or reseller, or call one of the Compaq telephone numbers listed in
“Worldwide Telephone Numbers” in this appendix.

Troubleshooting
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The following tables list possible problems, the possible cause of each problem, and the
recommended solution(s).
Docking Problems and Solutions
Problem Possible Cause Solution(s)
The computer is not
properly docked in the
convenience base.
The computer is not properly
centered over the docking
connector.
The computer is not coupled
to docking connector.
Undock the computer and re-
dock ensuring that you press
down on the rear of the
computer to engage the
latches and connection to the
docking connector.
Undock the computer and re-
dock.
Undocking Problems and Solutions
Problem Possible Cause Solution(s)
The computer will not
undock. The Password Undock is disabled. Enable Password Undock and when prompted, enter
the correct password.
Security cable is locked. Unlock security cable.
Docking light is on. Press the Undock Request
button, enter your password,
if enabled, and wait for the
docking light to turn off.
The Undock Request button
may be defective. Call the Compaq support number for your country.
External Device Installation Problems and Solutions
Problem Possible Cause Solution(s)
A new device is not
recognized as part of the
computer system.
Power switch of the new
external device was not
turned on before the system
was turned on.
Initiate Suspend, turn on
external devices with power
switches, then exit Suspend
to integrate the new device.
External device was
connected after system was
turned on.
Windows 95 or later: Initiate
Suspend, plug in and turn on
external devices with power
switches, then exit Suspend
to integrate the new device.
Windows NT: Power off
computer and external
devices. Power back on to
integrate new device.
Continued

Troubleshooting
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External Device Installation Problems and Solutions Continued
Problem Possible Cause Solution(s)
The signal cable or power
cord of the new device is
loose or disconnected.
Ensure that all cables are
properly and securely
connected.
Ensure that all power cords
are properly and securely
plugged into an electrical
outlet.
The signal cable or power
cord of the new device may
be defective.
Try connecting a different
signal cable and/or power
cord.
Keyboard Problems and Solutions
Problem Possible Cause Solution(s)
External keyboard does not
work. External keyboard may not be securely connected or
may be connected to an
incorrect external
connector.
Ensure that the external
keyboard is properly and
securely connected to the
external keyboard
connector.
Mouse Problems and Solutions
Problem Possible Cause Solution(s)
External mouse does not
work. External mouse may not be securely connected or may
be connected to an
incorrect external
connector.
Ensure that the external
mouse is securely
connected to the mouse
connector or the correct
external connector.
Mouse was connected after
system was turned on. Initiate Suspend, connect mouse, and then exit
Suspend to integrate the
mouse.

Troubleshooting
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Solving Network Problems
This section provides guidelines for troubleshooting common Ethernet network problems.
Refer to these guidelines when you have determined that the computer in the convenience
base is not communicating with the network. These guidelines do not discuss the process of
debugging the network cabling.
These are common problems to check first. Refer to the tables on the following pages for
additional problems and solutions.
Ensure that the cabling is securely attached to the convenience base. A loose cable is the
most common cause of network problems. If the cable is loose, secure it and see if the
computer can communicate with the network.
Determine whether the current computer or another computer has communicated with the
network from the convenience base. If so, determine whether anything was added or
changed that could have stopped the network interface from working.
Run Diagnostics before installing the network drivers to verify that the network interface is
working correctly. Refer to the Reference Guide included with your computer for more
information on running Diagnostics.

Troubleshooting
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Solving Ethernet Network Problems
Problem Possible Cause Solution(s)
When turned on, the
computer does not detect
the network.
The computer is not
connected to the Ethernet
network.
Connect the computer to
the Ethernet network. Refer
to Chapter 3 for procedures.
Suspend was initiated. Exit Suspend
Windows 95 or later:
Restart the computer by
clicking Start Å Shut Down
Å Restart the Computer.
Windows NT: Click Start Å
Shut Down. Power the
computer back on.
After installing network
drivers, the computer
does not detect network
interface.
The network driver fails to
load during system
initialization.
If using a network interface
card connected to a parallel
port, the port has been
disabled.
Ensure that network drivers
are loaded and that the drive
path is correct.
Enable the parallel port.
Restart the computer. Press
F10 immediately when the
cursor moves to the top-right
side of the screen.
Suspend was initiated. Exit Suspend.
Windows 95 or later:
Restart the computer by
clicking Start Å Shut Down
Å Restart the Computer.
Windows NT: Click
Start Å Shut Down. Power
computer back on.
Diagnostics reports a
failure. The cable is not securely connected to the network
connector on the Ethernet
network.
Ensure that the cable is
securely connected to the
proper network connector
on the Ethernet network.
There is a problem with the
cable or a device at the
other end of the cable.
Ensure that the cable and
device at the other end of
the network connection are
operating properly.
Possible hardware failure. Contact Customer Support
or your service provider.
Refer to “Worldwide
Telephone Numbers” in this
appendix.