Getac B300 User manual

Rugged Mobile Computing Solutions
B300
USER’S MANUAL

Sep. 2013
TRADEMARKS
The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by
Bluetooth SIG, Inc.
All other brand and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks
of their respective owners.
NOTE
The information in this manual is subject to change without notice.
For the latest version of the manual, please visit the Getac website
at www.getac.com.

i
Table of Contents
Chapter 1 Getting Started..................................................................1-1
Getting the Computer Running............................................. 1-2
Unpacking ........................................................................... 1-2
Using the Tether (Optional)............................................... 1-3
Connecting to AC Power.................................................... 1-4
Turning On and Off the Computer ................................... 1-5
Taking a Look at the Computer............................................. 1-7
Front Components.............................................................. 1-7
Rear Components ............................................................... 1-8
Right-Side Components...................................................... 1-9
Left-Side Components ...................................................... 1-11
Top-open Components..................................................... 1-12
Bottom Components ........................................................ 1-15
Chapter 2 Operating Your Computer................................................2-1
Using the Keyboard ................................................................ 2-2
Typewriter Keys .................................................................. 2-2
Cursor-Control Keys............................................................ 2-2
Numeric Keypad.................................................................. 2-3
Function Keys...................................................................... 2-4
Fn Key .................................................................................. 2-4
Hot Keys .............................................................................. 2-4
Windows Keys..................................................................... 2-6
Using the Touchpad................................................................ 2-7
Configuring the Touchpad................................................. 2-9
Using the Touchscreen (Optional) ....................................... 2-10
Using the Quick Buttons....................................................... 2-12
Using the DVD Drive ............................................................. 2-14

ii
Inserting and Removing a Disc ........................................ 2-15
Using the Network Features................................................. 2-17
Using the LAN ................................................................... 2-17
Using the Wireless LAN .................................................... 2-17
Using the Bluetooth Feature................................................ 2-19
Turning On/Off the Bluetooth Radio .............................. 2-19
Connecting to another Bluetooth Device....................... 2-20
Using the WWAN Feature (Optional).................................. 2-21
Installing a SIM Card......................................................... 2-22
Turning On/Off the WWAN Radio................................... 2-22
Setting up a WWAN Connection..................................... 2-23
Using the Fingerprint Scanner ............................................. 2-24
Chapter 3 Managing Power...............................................................3-1
AC Adapter.............................................................................. 3-2
Battery Pack............................................................................. 3-3
Charging the Battery Pack ................................................. 3-3
Initializing the Battery Pack............................................... 3-4
Checking the Battery Level ................................................ 3-5
Replacing the Battery Pack ................................................ 3-6
Battery Low Signals and Actions ....................................... 3-7
Power-Saving Tips ................................................................... 3-8
Chapter 4 Expanding Your Computer ...............................................4-1
Connecting a VGA or HDMI Display Monitor ....................... 4-2
Connecting a Serial Device..................................................... 4-4
Connecting a USB Device........................................................ 4-5
Connecting an eSATA Device................................................. 4-6
Connecting an IEEE 1394 Device............................................ 4-7
Connecting Audio Devices...................................................... 4-8
Using Smart Cards ................................................................... 4-9
Using PC Cards....................................................................... 4-10
Using ExpressCards (Optional) ............................................. 4-12
Using Storage Cards.............................................................. 4-14
System Memory Upgrade ..................................................... 4-15
Replacing the Hard Disk Drive ............................................. 4-17
Installing a Secondary Battery Pack or Hard Disk Drive .....4-18
Chapter 5 Using BIOS Setup...............................................................5-1
When and How to Use............................................................ 5-2
Information Menu .................................................................. 5-3

iii
Main Menu.......................................................................... 5-4
Advanced Menu.................................................................. 5-5
Security Menu ................................................................... 5-12
Boot Menu ........................................................................ 5-14
Exit Menu .......................................................................... 5-15
Quick BIOS Settings............................................................... 5-16
Chapter 6 Using Getac Software .......................................................6-1
G-Manager .............................................................................. 6-2
System Tab .......................................................................... 6-3
Battery Tab.......................................................................... 6-4
ECO Tab ............................................................................... 6-6
Light Sensor Tab ................................................................. 6-8
Antenna Tab ....................................................................... 6-9
Monitoring Tab................................................................. 6-10
GPS Status Tab .................................................................. 6-12
P1 Quick Button Definition Utility....................................... 6-13
Chapter 7 Caring for the Computer...................................................7-1
Protecting the Computer........................................................ 7-2
Using an Anti-Virus Strategy.............................................. 7-2
Using the Cable Lock .......................................................... 7-2
Taking Care of the Computer ................................................ 7-3
Location Guidelines ............................................................ 7-3
General Guidelines ............................................................. 7-4
Cleaning Guidelines............................................................ 7-4
Battery Pack Guidelines...................................................... 7-5
Touchscreen Guidelines...................................................... 7-6
When Traveling....................................................................... 7-8
Chapter 8 Troubleshooting................................................................8-1
Preliminary Checklist............................................................... 8-2
Solving Common Problems..................................................... 8-3
Battery Problems ................................................................ 8-3
Bluetooth Problems............................................................ 8-3
Display Problems................................................................. 8-4
DVD Drive Problems ........................................................... 8-5
ExpressCard Problems......................................................... 8-5
Hardware Device Problems ................................................ 8-6
Hard Disk Drive Problems................................................... 8-6
Keyboard and Touchpad Problems ................................... 8-7

iv
LAN Problems...................................................................... 8-7
PC Card Problems................................................................ 8-7
Power Management Problems .......................................... 8-8
Software Problems ............................................................. 8-9
Sound Problems .................................................................. 8-9
Startup Problems .............................................................. 8-10
WLAN Problems ................................................................ 8-10
Other Problems................................................................. 8-12
Resetting the Computer ....................................................... 8-13
System Recovery.................................................................... 8-14
Appendix A Specifications.................................................................... A-1
Appendix B Regulatory Information ................................................... B-1
On the Use of the System.......................................................B-2
Class B Regulations .............................................................B-2
Safety Notices......................................................................B-3
On the Use of the RF Device...................................................B-6
USA and Canada Safety Requirements and Notices.........B-6
European Union CE Marking and Compliance Notices....B-9

Getting Started 1-1
Chapter 1
Getting Started
Congratulations on purchasing this rugged computer.
This chapter first tells you step by step how to get the computer up and
running. Then, you will find a section briefly introducing the external
components of the computer.

1-2 Getting Started
Getting the Computer Running
Unpacking
After unpacking the shipping carton, you should find these standard items:
Rugged computer
Accessories:
−AC adapter
−AC power cord
−Document(s)
−Stylus and tether (depending on your model)
Inspect all the items. If any item is damaged or missing, notify your dealer
immediately.
Keep the shipping carton and packing materials in case you need to ship or
store the computer in the future.

Getting Started 1-3
Using the Tether (Optional)
A tether is provided for attaching the stylus to your computer.
1. Insert one of the tether’s loop ends through the hole of the stylus (as
indicated by below). Then, insert the other end through the first loop
(as indicated by below) and pull it tight.
2. Insert the other loop end to the hook on the computer (as indicated by
below). Then, insert the stylus end through the loop (as indicated by
below) and pull it tight.

1-4 Getting Started
Connecting to AC Power
The computer operates either on the external AC power or internal battery
power. It is suggested that you use AC power when you start up the
computer for the very first time.
CAUTION: Use only the AC adapter included with your computer. Using
other AC adapters may damage the computer.
1. Plug the DC cord of the AC adapter to the power connector of the
computer ().
2. Plug the female end of the AC power cord to the AC adapter and the
male end to an electrical outlet ().
3. When the AC adapter is connected, power is being supplied from the
electrical outlet to the AC adapter and onto your computer. Now, you
are ready to turn on the computer.
CAUTION:
When you disconnect the AC adapter, disconnect from the electrical
outlet first and then from the computer. A reverse procedure may
damage the AC adapter or the computer.
When unplugging the connector, always hold the plug head. Never pull
on the cord.

Getting Started 1-5
NOTE: When the AC adapter is connected, it also charges the battery pack.
For information on using battery power, see Chapter 3.
Turning On and Off the Computer
Turning On
1. Open the top cover by pushing on the cover latch () and lifting up the
cover (). You can tilt the cover forward or backward for optimal
viewing clarity.

1-6 Getting Started
2. Press the power button ( ).
3. The Windows operating system should start.
Turning Off
When you finish a working session, you can stop the system by turning off
the power or leaving it in Sleep or Hibernation mode:
To... Do this...
Power off
(Shutdown)
Use the Windows Start menu in the lower left and follow
the shutdown procedure.
Sleep Press the power button* or use the Windows Start menu
to put the computer in Sleep mode.
Hibernate Use the Windows Start menu to put the computer in
Hibernation mode.
* “Sleep” is the default setting of the power button. You may change what
the power button does in Windows Control Panel.

Getting Started 1-7
Taking a Look at the Computer
NOTE: Depending on the model you purchased, the appearance of your
computer may not be exactly the same as those shown in this manual.
CAUTION: You need to open the protective covers to access the connectors.
When not using a connector, make sure to close the cover completely for
water- , dust-, and fire-proof integrity. (Engage the locking mechanism if
existing.)
Front Components
Ref Component Description See Also
Top Cover Latch Locks the top cover. P. 1-5
WWAN Antenna
Should be pulled out for reception of
mobile telecommunications signals.
P. 2-21
Handle Provides a convenient way to carry the
computer.

1-8 Getting Started
Rear Components
Ref Component Description See Also
Power Connector Connects the AC adapter. P. 1-3
USB Port Connects a USB device, such as a USB
flash disk, printer, digital camera,
joystick, and more.
P. 4-5
WWAN Pass-
through Connector
(option)
Connects the external antenna for
WWAN (wireless wide area network)
connectivity.
NOTE: Must be connected via a
docking station.
GPS Pass-through
Connector (option)
Connects the external antenna for
GPS signal reception.
NOTE: Must be connected via a
docking station.
Docking Connector Connects to the office or vehicle dock
(purchased separately).
VGA Connector Connects an external display monitor. P. 4-2
Serial Connectors
Each of the two connectors connects a
serial mouse or serial communication
device.
P. 4-4

Getting Started 1-9
Ref Component Description See Also
Kensington Lock Locks the computer to a stationary
object for security.
P. 7-2
Right-Side Components
Ref Component Description See Also
Expansion Card
Slot
Depending on your model, the slot can
be any of the following:
ExpressCard
Slot
Accepts an ExpressCard/34 or
ExpressCard/54 for additional functions.
P. 4-12
PCMCIA Slot Accepts a PC card for additional
functions.
P. 4-10
Mini IEEE 1394
Port
Connects an IEEE 1394 device such as a
scanner, printer, DVCAM, and VCR.
P. 4-6
SIM Card Slot
(option)
Accepts a SIM card for models having the
WWAN module.
NOTE: The slot still exists but cannot be
used for models without the WWAN
module.
P. 2-22

1-10 Getting Started
Ref Component Description See Also
SD Card Reader Accepts a Secure Digital (SD) card for
removable storage media.
P. 4-14
HDMI
Connector
Connects a HDMI (High-Definition Multi-
media Interface) monitor or TV set.
P. 4-2
Hard Disk Drive
Compartment
Inside is the hard disk drive. P. 4-17
PCMCIA Slot Accepts a PC card for additional
functions.
P. 4-10
eSATA/USB
Combo Port
Connects an eSATA device such as an
external hard drive or optical drive.
P. 4-6
Can also function as a USB port.
GPS Antenna
Connector
Connects the external antenna for GPS
signal reception.
Audio Output
Connector
Connects a set of headphones or
external speakers with amplifier.
P. 4-8
Microphone
Connector
Connects an external microphone. P. 4-8
RJ-45 Connector Connects the LAN cable. P. 2-17

Getting Started 1-11
Left-Side Components
Ref Component Description See Also
Battery Pack Supplies power to your computer when
external power is not connected.
P. 3-3
Smart Card
Reader
Accepts a smart card for additional
security feature.
NOTE: On your computer, the Smart
Card reader is a part of the super multi
drive module. If the super multi drive
module is replaced by a secondary
battery pack or hard disk drive, you
cannot use the Smart Card reader.
P. 4-9
Super Multi
Drive
Accepts a compact disc for installing or
loading software, accessing data, and
playing music/video.
P. 2-14
Can be replaced by a secondary hard disk
drive or battery pack (purchased
separately).
P. 4-17

1-12 Getting Started
Top-open Components
Ref Component Description See Also
LCD Screen Displays the output of the computer.
May include the optional touchscreen
feature.
P. 2-10

Getting Started 1-13
Ref Component Description See Also
Quick Buttons P. 2-10
P1 Toggles the “Blackout” mode on or off.
Brings up the ECO menu for selecting a
power profile when using battery
power.
Toggles the sunlight-readable mode on
or off.
Enables or disables light sensor.
Power Button
Turns the power on or off. (The default
“off” state is “Sleep mode.”)
P. 1-6
Stylus (option) Serves as the input device by tapping on
the screen to make selections and enter
information.
P. 2-10
Touchpad Serves as the pointing device of the
computer.
P. 2-7
Indicators Show the current status of the
computer’s devices.
Hard Disk Drive
/ DVD Drive
Blinks green when computer is accessing
the hard disk or DVD drive.
Card Reader Blinks green when computer is accessing
the storage card.
P. 4-14
Caps Lock Lights green when Caps Lock is on. P. 2-3
Num Lock / HDD
Heater (option)
Lights green when Num Lock is on. P. 2-3
Lights amber when the optional hard
disk heater is on.
P. 8-10
Microphone Receives sound and voice for the
computer.
Keyboard Serves as the data input device of the
computer.
P. 2-2

1-14 Getting Started
Ref Component Description See Also
Fingerprint
Scanner
Serves as the fingerprint verification,
preventing unauthorized access to your
computer.
P. 2-24
Stereo Speaker Sends out sound and voice from the
computer.
Indicators Show the current status of the
computer’s devices.
Power Lights green when computer is on.P. 1-5
Blinks green when computer is on Sleep
mode.
Battery Charge Lights green when the battery is fully
charged.
P. 3-3
Lights amber when the battery is being
charged.
Blinks red when the battery’s capacity is
below 10 %.
Blinks amber when the battery is in an
abnormal condition.
WLAN Lights green when WLAN radio is on. P. 2-17
Bluetooth Lights green when Bluetooth radio is on. P. 2-19
WWAN Lights green when WWAN radio is on. P. 2-22