Micron Electronics TransPort NX User manual

Copyright Notice
TransPort NX User’s Guide
1
TransPort NX User’s
Guide
Copyright Notice The information in this document is subject to change without prior notice in order
to improve reliability, design and function and does not represent a commitment
on the part of the manufacturer. In no event will the manufacturer be liable for
direct, indirect, special, incidental, or consequential damages arising out of the
use or inability to use the product or documentation, even if advised of the
possibility of such damages.
This document contains proprietary information that is protected by copyright. All
rights are reserved. No part of this document may be photocopied, reproduced, or
translated to another language without the prior written consent of:
Micron Electronics, Inc.
900 E. Karcher Road
Nampa, Idaho 83687
Phoenix is a trademark of Phoenix Technologies Ltd. CardSoft is a trademark of
SystemSoft Corporation. AutoCAD and Autoshade are trademarks of Autodesk,
Inc. IBM, OS/2, and VGA are trademarks of International Business Machines
Corp. Lotus, 1-2-3, and Symphony are trademarks of Lotus Development Corp.
Windows, Word, MS-DOS, and Microsoft are trademarks of Microsoft Corp. VESA
is a trademark of Video Electronics Standards Association.
MS-DOS, Windows 3.1, 95/98 and NT are trademarks of Microsoft Corp. Pentium
II and MMX are trademarks of Intel Semiconductor.
Other product names mentioned herein are used for identification purposes only
and may be trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective
companies.
While reasonable efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of this manual,
the manufacturer and distributor assume no liability resulting from errors or
omissions in this manual, or from the use of the information contained herein.
P/N MAS001579-02, TransPort NX,
MJB 9-29-1999 (C)Copyright 1999. All Rights Reserved. Manual edition October, 1999.
Document Number MP989

From the Editors...
TransPort NX User’s Guide
2
From the Editors... This may be your first time setting up a computer, in which case, we hope that this
manual will be an effective resource for you and make this as much of a learning
process, and not a hassle.
There exists the possibility that you have already set up your machine, and you’ve
taken the manual out for a detailed look at your system’s features. You may want
to know about possible configuration changes and modifications that can be
made, or simply match wits with the glossary and see if you can come up with the
correct definition for BIOS without peeking.
Another reality is one of frustration, hair-pulling and the like. Many folks only open
the manual when “something isn’t working right.” Reconfiguring the CMOS
screens may have seemed like a good idea at the time, but now you are only
getting cranky beeps. Now what?! You may be trying to get help on-line but a
blank screen isn’t going to help you out much there, and you’ve pulled the user’s
guide out as a last resort.
Fair enough.
If the reason you got the user’s guide out is based on the last possibility... first
things, first... take a deep breath.
The system user’s guide is designed to help you in all of the above situations, and
give you a ready reference to the capabilities of your system.
A troubleshooting section may save you a call to technical support, should you be
staring at a blank screen right now.
We want to make this guide as useful as possible and welcome your comments.
Please provide the page and the manual part number (MAS001579-02) when you
send comments to: [e-mail].
Whatever reason brought you to reading the user’s guide, Welcome!!! We hope it
makes your experience with Micron even better.

Getting Started
About This Manual
3
About This Manual Whether you are a new or experienced computer user, you will benefit more from
this manual if you are familiar with its organization.
Getting Started Chapter One: This section lists the special features of your TransPort NX
computer and available options. It also includes a description of the parts you
should have received and gives you step-by-step procedures for setting up and
starting the computer
System Features Chapter Two: This section outlines the layout and functionality of your TransPort
NX.
Running BIOS Setup Chapter Three: This section describes how to operate the Setup Utility that is
provided in the computer’s ROM BIOS. Several options are available in BIOS,
such as the ability to protect and supervise your notebook with password
protection.
Data Storage Chapter Four: This section explains the powerful ability of your TransPort NX to
utilize the Hard Disk drive, Removable Disk drive and CD-ROM.
Power Management Chapter Five: This section provides information on how to keep your TransPort
NX supplied with power.
Optional Accessories Chapter Six: This section provides an overview of devices that may be used with
the TransPort NX, such as an external monitor and keyboard. It also provides an
overview to the port replicator, which can turn your notebook into a functional
desktop computer.
Software Utilities Chapter Seven: This section explains the MRestore CD, which includes Drive
Image, Partition Magic and Drive Copy--three very powerful software tools--plus
the ZVHDD (save-to-disk) utility.
Troubleshooting Chapter Eight: This section provides a simple guide to common troubleshooting
techniques.

Appendices
About This Manual
4
Appendices Appendix A: Specifications
Appendix B: Regulatory Information
Appendix C: Safety Guidelines
Appendix D: Fax/Modem Information
Appendix E: Alternative Device Drivers
Appendix F: Caring for Diskettes and CDs
Appendix G: Abbreviations
Appendix H: Glossary
Index A comprehensive index is provided. You can look up areas of interest or need
without searching through the Table of Contents.
Peripheral Manuals In addition to this manual, you will also want to consult the manuals for your
operating system and application software.
Manual Conventions The following conventions are used throughout this manual:
NOTE:
Notes contain important information that is set off from the text.
WARNING:
Caution messages appear before procedures which, if not observed, could
result in loss of data or damage to equipment. Failure to heed these warning
could negate the user warranty.
CAUTION:
Warning messages appear before procedures which, if not observed, will
result in loss of data or damage to equipment, and/or could result in
physical harm. Failure to heed these warning could negate the user
warranty.

Table of Contents
5
Table of Contents
TransPort NX User’s Guide............................... 1
Copyright Notice .................................................................. 1
From the Editors... ............................................................... 2
About This Manual............................................. 3
Getting Started..................................................................... 3
Appendices .......................................................................... 4
Index .................................................................................... 4
Peripheral Manuals.............................................................. 4
Manual Conventions ............................................................ 4
Chapter One - Getting Started......................... 11
Unpacking the TransPort NX ............................................. 11
Personal Inventory............................................................. 12
Operating Environment...................................................... 13
Heat, Cold, Humidity, and Glare.................................. 13
Work Location.............................................................. 14
Connecting to a Power Source .......................................... 14
Connecting the AC Adapter......................................... 14
Surge Suppressors...................................................... 15
Turning on the TransPort NX ............................................. 15
Ergonomics........................................................................ 17
Chapter Two - System Features...................... 19
Opening the TransPort NX................................................. 19
Left View ............................................................................ 20
DC-Jack....................................................................... 20
Fan .............................................................................. 20
PCMCIA Slots Compartments..................................... 20
Main Battery ................................................................ 20
Fax/Modem (Optional)................................................. 20
Right View.......................................................................... 21
Microphone Jack ......................................................... 21
Line In.......................................................................... 21
Line Out....................................................................... 21
CD Bay......................................................................... 21
FDD Bay ...................................................................... 21
IrDA.............................................................................. 21
Rear View........................................................................... 22
Foot.............................................................................. 22
SVGA........................................................................... 22
Port Replicator Bay...................................................... 22
USB Ports.................................................................... 22
Parallel Port ................................................................. 22
Game/MIDI Port........................................................... 22
Serial Port.................................................................... 23
PS/2 Port...................................................................... 23
TV OUT / In Ports ........................................................ 23
Bottom View ....................................................................... 23
CD-ROM Release Latch.............................................. 24
FDD BAY Release Latch ............................................. 24
Name Card Holder....................................................... 24
CPU Cover................................................................... 24
Main Battery Release Latch......................................... 24
Interior Features................................................................. 24
LCD.............................................................................. 25
Power Button ............................................................... 25
Power ON .................................................................... 25
Power OFF................................................................... 25
Power LED................................................................... 25
Indicator Display .......................................................... 25
Stereo Speakers.......................................................... 26
Touchpad..................................................................... 26
LCD Cover Switch........................................................ 27
Mouse Buttons............................................................. 27
Microphone.................................................................. 27
System Features ................................................................ 27
Central Processing Unit (CPU) .................................... 27
CPU Upgrade............................................................... 27
L2 Cache...................................................................... 28
Upgradeable System Memory ..................................... 28
VGA Graphics Accelerator........................................... 29
Removable Hard Disk Drive Module............................ 29

Table of Contents
6
Removable CD-ROM................................................... 29
Audio System............................................................... 29
Audio Ports .................................................................. 29
Battery and AC Power System .................................... 29
Security........................................................................ 29
Input/Output Devices ................................................... 30
Other Devices .............................................................. 30
LCD Display................................................................. 30
LCD Care..................................................................... 30
External CRT Display................................................... 30
TransPort NX Keyboard ..................................................... 31
Description of Function Keys ....................................... 31
Windows 95 Keys ........................................................ 32
Hot Key Controls.......................................................... 33
Function Keys .............................................................. 33
Cursor Keys ................................................................. 33
Embedded Numeric Keypad........................................ 34
System Status Window................................................ 34
Touch Pad........................................................................... 34
Using the Touch Pad ................................................... 35
Touch Pad Precautions................................................ 36
Installing a Touch Pad Driver....................................... 36
Using the Stick Pointer................................................. 36
IR Communication.............................................................. 37
PCMCIA Cards and Expansion Sockets ............................ 38
Using PCMCIA Cards .................................................. 38
Inserting a PCMCIA Card ............................................ 39
Preparing the TransPort NX for Transport.......................... 39
Traveling with the TransPort NX.................................. 40
Power-on Self Test ............................................................. 40
Operating System............................................................... 41
Resetting the System ......................................................... 41
Chapter Three - Running BIOS Setup............ 43
About BIOS Setup .............................................................. 43
Navigating Through BIOS Setup.................................. 43
Using Setup ................................................................. 44
Legend Bar .................................................................. 44
Accessing the BIOS Setup Program ........................... 44
In Case of Problems.................................................... 45
Save Changes and Exit Setup Program...................... 45
Main Menu......................................................................... 45
Standard CMOS Setup...................................................... 46
Date............................................................................. 46
Time ............................................................................ 46
Primary Master............................................................ 46
Secondary Master ....................................................... 46
Secondary Slave......................................................... 46
Drive Type A................................................................ 46
LCD & CRT ................................................................. 47
Halt On ........................................................................ 47
Memory ....................................................................... 47
BIOS Features Setup .................................................. 47
Quick Power On Self Test........................................... 47
Boot Sequence............................................................ 48
Boot Up NumLock Status............................................ 48
Security Option............................................................ 48
Integrated Peripherals........................................................ 48
OnChip Primary PCI IDE............................................. 49
OnChip Secondary PCI IDE........................................ 49
Onboard FDC Controller ............................................. 49
Onboard Serial Port 1.................................................. 49
Onboard Serial Port 2.................................................. 49
Onboard Serial Port 2 Mode........................................ 49
FIR Mode Use DMA .................................................... 49
Onboard Parallel Port.................................................. 49
Parallel Port Mode....................................................... 49
ECP Mode Use DMA................................................... 49
Reset Data Configuration............................................ 49
Power Menu....................................................................... 50
Power On By Ring....................................................... 50
Battery Low ................................................................. 50
Battery Llow................................................................. 50
Resume on Schedule.................................................. 50
Save & Exit Setup ....................................................... 51
Exit Without Save........................................................ 51

Table of Contents
7
Chapter Four - Data Storage ........................... 53
Data Storage and Retrieval................................................ 53
Floppy Disk Drive ........................................................ 53
CD-ROM...................................................................... 56
Removing the CD-ROM Drive ..................................... 57
Installing the CD-ROM Drive ....................................... 58
Multimedia Sound System........................................... 59
Chapter Five - Power Management................. 61
Powering Your Notebook Computer................................... 61
Power Saving Modes......................................................... 61
Full On Mode............................................................... 61
System Idle Mode........................................................ 61
Standby Mode ............................................................. 62
Suspend To RAM........................................................ 62
Suspend To Disk......................................................... 63
A Suspend Example.................................................... 64
Hard Drive Spin Down................................................. 64
Batteries............................................................................. 64
Battery Discharge........................................................ 65
Recharging the Battery Pack....................................... 65
Battery Power System................................................. 67
Preparing the Battery Pack for Use............................. 67
Battery Status.............................................................. 67
Battery Low Warning................................................... 69
Small Battery for Real Time Clock............................... 69
Power Management Habits ......................................... 69
AC Adapter ........................................................................ 69
Conserve Battery with AC Adapter.............................. 70
Screen Brightness.............................................................. 70
APM Interface .................................................................... 70
Chapter Six - Optional Accessories ............... 71
External Devices................................................................ 71
External Keyboard....................................................... 71
External Mouse............................................................ 72
External Monitor .......................................................... 72
External Printer............................................................ 73
Serial Devices.................................................................... 73
Audio Sources and Output Devices ................................... 74
Universal Serial Bus........................................................... 74
LS-120 Drive ...................................................................... 74
Zip Drive............................................................................. 75
Optional Fax/Modem.......................................................... 75
Optional Port Replicator ..................................................... 76
Features....................................................................... 77
Connecting The Port Replicator................................... 78
Cold Dock .................................................................... 78
Disconnecting the Port Replicator................................ 79
DVD Installation.................................................................. 80
Chapter Seven - Software Utilities ................. 81
MRestore CD-ROM............................................................ 81
MCRC (Micron Customer Resource Center)...................... 81
PartitionMagic..................................................................... 81
Drive Image 3.0.................................................................. 82
Drive Image Professional............................................. 83
Drive Image System Requirements............................. 83
Creating Image Files.................................................... 83
Advanced Options........................................................ 88
Disable SmartSector Copying...................................... 89
Verify Disk Writes......................................................... 89
ImageShield................................................................. 89
Split Image File Into Multiple Files............................... 89
Restoring Image Files.................................................. 89
Resize Options............................................................. 95
Advanced Options........................................................ 96
Check for File System Errors....................................... 96
Skip Bad Sector Check................................................ 96
Verify Check Writes ..................................................... 96
PartitionMagic..................................................................... 96
Partition Information..................................................... 97
Partition Map................................................................ 97
Partition List ................................................................. 98
PartitionMagic Help...................................................... 98
ReadMe File................................................................. 99

Table of Contents
8
Completing Tasks Manually......................................... 99
Selecting a Hard Disk .................................................. 99
Selecting a Partition..................................................... 99
Applying Changes to Your System ............................ 100
Changing PartitionMagic Preferences ....................... 100
Ignore OS/2 EA Errors on FAT .................................. 101
Skip Bad Sector Checks ............................................ 101
Set as Read-Only for PartitionMagic.......................... 102
Creating Partitions ..................................................... 102
Creating Bootable Partitions ...................................... 103
To Create a Partition.................................................. 104
Scenarios................................................................... 106
Deleting Partitions...................................................... 107
Changing Partition Labels.......................................... 108
Formatting Partitions.................................................. 108
Converting FAT to FAT32.......................................... 109
Converting FAT to NTFS ........................................... 110
Drive Copy ................................................................. 111
Copying Entire Drives ................................................ 112
Zero-Volt Data-Suspend Utility (ZVHDD) ......................... 113
Installation.................................................................. 114
Creating a Storage Partition on the Hard Drive ......... 114
Saving Session Data.................................................. 115
Program Functions..................................................... 117
Reformatting the Storage Partition............................. 117
Deleting the Storage File or Partition......................... 117
Routine Maintenance........................................................ 118
Windows Task Scheduler (Maintenance Wizard) ...... 118
System File Checker.................................................. 119
Defragmenting Your Hard Disk.................................. 119
Using Scandisk .......................................................... 120
Chapter Eight - Troubleshooting.................. 123
Locating a Problem........................................................... 123
Checking Cables and Connections............................ 124
Power On Self Test.................................................... 125
Fax/Modem Problems................................................ 125
Service and Support......................................................... 127
Appendix A - Specifications.......................... 129
CPU ................................................................................. 129
Memory............................................................................ 129
Core Logic Chips ............................................................. 129
L2 Cache Memory............................................................ 129
Display............................................................................. 129
LCD.................................................................................. 129
Battery ............................................................................. 130
Pointing Device................................................................ 130
Power Management......................................................... 130
BIOS ................................................................................ 130
Disk Drives....................................................................... 130
Smart Bay........................................................................ 130
Keyboard ......................................................................... 130
Sound .............................................................................. 130
I/O Ports........................................................................... 130
PCMCIA........................................................................... 131
Power............................................................................... 131
Options...................................................................... 131
Dimension........................................................................ 131
Port Replicator................................................................. 131
Modem Specifications...................................................... 132
Appendix B - Regulatory ............................... 135
FCC Notice ...................................................................... 135
Information to be Supplied to the User...................... 135
FCC Requirements.................................................... 135
Appendix C - Safety Guidelines.................... 137
General Safety Instructions.............................................. 137
Safety Instructions ........................................................... 138
Power Safety Instructions................................................ 138
Battery Safety Instructions............................................... 138
IT System Connectors ..................................................... 139
PELV (Protected Extra-Low Voltage)............................... 140

Table of Contents
9
Earth Bonding .................................................................. 140
Laser Compliance Statement for CD-ROM, DVD-ROM and
LS-120 ............................................................................. 140
Caring for You TransPort NX............................................ 141
Preventing Problems........................................................ 141
Appendix D - Fax/Modem Information.......... 143
Basic AT Commands........................................................ 143
MNP/V.42/V.42bis Commands......................................... 146
Fax Class 1 Commands................................................... 146
Speed Table (unit: bits/s) ................................................. 147
S Registers ...................................................................... 147
Section 8 - Result Codes ................................................. 148
Appendix E - Alternative Device Drivers...... 151
Appendix F - Caring for Diskettes and CDs. 153
Precautions for Handling CD-ROM Disks........................ 154
Loading and Removing a Disc................................... 154
Reading CDs ............................................................. 155
CD Types................................................................... 155
Appendix G - Abbreviations.......................... 157
Appendix H - Glossary................................... 159
Index................................................................ 165

10

Unpacking the TransPort NX
Chapter One - Getting Started
11
Chapter One -
Getting Started Congratulations on your new TransPort NX. With proper care and usage, your
notebook will be a valuable asset at home, office, and on the road.
Figure 1. TransPort NX
Unpacking the TransPort
NX The TransPort NX comes securely packaged in a sturdy shipping carton. Upon
receiving your TransPort NX, open the box and carefully remove the contents. If
anything is missing or damaged, please contact Micron Electronics immediately.
All systems should include the following items:
• The TransPort NX computer
• An AC adapter
• An AC power cord
• Main Battery
• Software and Micron Customer Resource Center CD and/or MRestore CD
• User’s manual
NOTE:
Items included may vary. Please check the packing slip included with your
TransPort NX for the exact items you should have received.

Personal Inventory
Chapter One - Getting Started
12
Personal Inventory This TransPort NX computer system is designed for years of productive and
pleasurable computing. Use this section to keep notes about details of your
purchase. Update this section when you add new options.
Date of Purchase: ____________________________
Micron Technical Support: 1-888-FIX-MYPC (1-888-349-6972)
Address:
Micron Electronics
900 East Karcher Road
Nampa, Idaho 83687
Technical Support File Library: http://support.micronpc.com/library
Technical Support Internet Mail:
1. To send an E-mail to Technical Support, visit the Micron Electronics Website:
http://support.micronpc.com/contact/support.
2. Click on the Support Department for your specific need.
Web site: www.micronpc.com
Record the System’s operating information:
Serial Number:
Order Number:
Bill Customer Number: (On Packing Slip)
CPU Type: __________________________________
Hard Disk Capacity: __________________________
Memory Capacity: ___________________________

Operating Environment
Chapter One - Getting Started
13
Operating Environment You can use your computer under a wide range of environmental conditions.
However, to ensure long use and continued high performance, consider the
following factors when setting up your computer:
• Set the computer on a flat, stable surface. To prevent damage to the
computer’s hard disk drive avoid using the computer where it will be
exposed to strong vibration.
• Place the computer away from electromagnetic or radio frequency
interference (for example, television/stereo sets, copying machines, and air
conditioners).
• Avoid using or storing the computer where it will be exposed to extreme
temperatures. In particular, do not leave the computer in direct sunlight,
over a radiator, or near a heat source for a long period of time. High
temperature can damage the circuitry.
• Avoid exposing the computer to high or low humidity. Extreme humidity can
contribute to disk drive failure.
• If you are using the computer with the AC adapter, do not allow anything to
rest on the power cord. Do not place the computer where people can step
on or trip over the cord.
The openings on the computer are provided to protect the computer from
overheating. To ensure reliable operation, leave about 10 cm (4 inches) around
the computer for unobstructed air circulation. Avoid exposing the computer to dust
or smoke.
CAUTION:
If your system arrives in cold weather, do not apply power to the computer
or monitor until it has reached room temperature.
Heat, Cold, Humidity, and Glare Find a spot for your computer that’s not too hot, too cold, too dark, or too bright.
Glare can make it hard to read the screen. Overheating can destroy computer
components, so allow plenty of room for air to circulate around the case. Do not
place your TransPort NX in direct sunlight.

Connecting to a Power Source
Chapter One - Getting Started
14
WARNING:
Do not expose the notebook to cold (frost) or heat, do not leave the
notebook in a car, and do not drop it, spill fluids on it, or open the case. This
can destroy the notebook and void the warranty. The system’s Liquid
Crystal Digital (LCD) video display may be damaged by exposure to intense
sunlight, which builds up excessive heat inside the display enclosure. Only
exposure to indirect or subdued sunlight is recommended.
Work Location Your TransPort NX generally will run well wherever you’re comfortable. But
extremes of temperature and humidity can be challenging to your system’s parts.
There are, however, some things you can tolerate that the computer can’t —
things like static electricity, dust, water, steam, and oil. So, whenever you decide
to pull over for roadside computing, choose a clean, comfortable work area for
your system.
Connecting to a Power
Source You can use the provided AC adapter to supply your computer with power from an
AC wall outlet. Your computer also comes with a rechargeable battery pack for
using the computer without an external power source.
Connecting the AC Adapter Use the provided universal AC adapter to supply your computer with power from
an AC wall outlet. You can also use the AC adapter to charge the computer’s
battery pack.
The AC adapter converts high-level AC voltage to the much lower level DC
voltage appropriate for the computer. The adapter’s AC input voltage can range
anywhere from 100 to 240 volts, covering the standard voltages available in
almost every country.
The power cord for the AC adapter requires a two-hole grounded AC outlet. An
optional four or six-plug power strip is a convenient addition, especially if you have
only one wall plug and several devices that need electricity. You can buy power
strips with built-in electrical surge protection. This provides limited protection from
spikes in the local voltage that can cause damage.
To connect the computer to an external power source:
1. Plug the AC adapter’s connector into the DC-IN connector on the right side of
the computer.
2. Connect the power cord to the AC adapter and then to a wall outlet.

Turning on the TransPort NX
Chapter One - Getting Started
15
Whenever possible, keep the AC adapter plugged into the TransPort NX and an
electrical outlet to recharge the battery. Although not necessary, it is also a good
idea to protect the display panel by always lowering it when the TransPort NX is
powered off.
Figure 2. Connecting the AC Adaptor
CAUTION:
The best kind of AC power source to connect your TransPort NX to is a UPS
(Uninterruptible Power Supply). Lacking this, use a power strip with a built-
in surge protector. Do not use inferior extension cords as this may result in
damage to your TransPort NX. The TransPort NX comes with its own AC
adapter. Do not use a different adapter to power the computer, and do not
use the AC adapter to power other electrical devices. Damage to the
computer that is directly caused by using a different power source will not
be covered under warranty.
Sur
g
e Suppressors Your computer has its own electrical filters, fuses, and protections, and even its
own built-in surge suppressor. We strongly recommend using a high-quality,
external surge suppressor. An external surge suppressor looks like an extension
cord with several grounded outlets. It will shield your computer from lightning
strikes, surges, shorts, and other electrical hazards.
Turning on the TransPort
NX Before turning on your computer, make sure you are familiarwith its features. See
”Chapter Two - System Features” for more information.
Now that your TransPort NX is opened and connected to a power source, it’s time
to turn it on. Press the power button located above the system status indicator
panel. Hold the button down for a second or two and release.

Turning on the TransPort NX
Chapter One - Getting Started
16
The Power-On Self Test (POST) will run automatically. After the POST is
completed, the computer reads the operating system from the hard disk drive into
computer memory. This is commonly referred to as “booting” a computer.
You are now ready to run software programs and use devices such as printers,
disk drives, and the CD-ROM.
To turn the TransPort NX off, save your work and close all open applications, click
on Start, then Shut Down. In the Shut Down Windows dialog box, select Shut
Down and click Yes.
CAUTION:
Never turn off or reset your TransPort NX while the hard disk or floppy disk
is in use and the FDD and/or HDD status icon is lit; doing so can result in
loss or destruction of your data.
Always wait at least five seconds after turning off your TransPort NX before
turning it back on; turning the power on and off in rapid succession can
damage the TransPort NX’s electrical circuitry.
Before you run your system for the first time on battery power, remove the
battery from its package and install it in the system. Recharge the battery
fully to prepare the battery pack for maximum service.
Except for PC cards, never connect or disconnect any equipment or
components while the system power is on.
When using the feet in the rear of the notebook, the computer will operate
cooler as the result of better ventilation. There is one fan on the left side of
the notebook, which will turn on when the CPU temperature exceeds 60
degrees. The fan will turn off when the CPU temperature is below 50
degrees.
WARNING:
If the temperature continues to rise above the CPU allowable limit--either
due to a defective fan, the notebook being operated in an excessively hot
environment or a soft surface that covers the ventilation holes--then the
notebook will enter Save-to-disk mode (S2D). If there is no Zero-Volt Data-
Suspend Utility (ZVHDD) partition, the notebook will shut down and all
unsaved data will be lost. See “Zero-Volt Data-Suspend Utility (ZVHDD)” on
page 113.

Ergonomics
Chapter One - Getting Started
17
Ergonomics Ergonomics is the study of how people, with their different physical characteristics
and ways of functioning, relate to their working environment (the furnishings and
machines they use).
The goal of ergonomics is to incorporate comfort, efficiency, and safety into the
design of keyboards, computer desks, chairs, and other items in an effort to
prevent physical discomfort and health problems in the working environment.
If your budget permits, buy ergonomically designed furniture such as chairs,
shelves, and desks that fit your physical characteristics and work method. If you
are going to be sitting for extended periods of time, an ergonomically designed
chair may well be worth the extra expense.
You can, however, create an ergonomically improved workstation without
spending much money. The following tips will help you work effectively without a
lot of physical discomfort:
• Purchase a chair with armrests and good back support.
• Don’t slouch when sitting; keep your back straight.
• Place the LCD panel or external monitor so that it is a little above eye level
when using a word processor.
• Remember to Scroll Down often to ensure you are reading or typing at the
top of the screen; this will help to prevent neck strain.
• Try to place the LCD panel or external monitor so that there is little glare
from the sun on the monitor
• Walk around the room every hour.
• Every half hour look away from the computer screen for a few minutes.
• Place everything that you need to work within easy reach.

18

Opening the TransPort NX
Chapter Two - System Features
19
Chapter Two -
System Features This section provides a description of the TransPort NX and an overview of the
notebook’s system features.
Opening the TransPort NX At the front of the TransPort NX you will find a retaining latch on the display panel
which locks the display in closed position when the TransPort NX is not in use.
Follow these steps to raise the LCD display cover:
1. Gently press the release button on the front of the notebook and raise the
display until it is at a comfortable viewing angle. To close the display, press the
top cover down until the latch snaps into place. The display folds down to form
a cover over the keyboard when the notebook computer is not in use.
2. When you close the notebook make sure there are no items on the keyboard
or palmrest, as these might damage the LCD panel.
Figure 3. Opening the TransPort NX
/DWFK

Left View
Chapter Two - System Features
20
Left View The following section describes the left side of the TransPort NX.
Figure 4. Left View of the TransPort NX
DC-Jack Plug the AC adapter into this connector.
Fan This fan prevents the TransPort NX’s CPU and other internal components from
becoming overheated. Keep this fan unobstructed to allow proper ventilation to
the NX’s internal components.
PCMCIA Slots Compartments Open this cover to access the PCMCIA sockets. The computer’s PCMCIA sockets
let you extend the capabilities of your computer by inserting PC cards. The cards
are hot swappable, meaning you can change cards without having to reboot your
computer. There are a wide variety of PC cards available, including data storage,
fax/modem, Local Area Network (LAN), wireless communication cards, and more.
See “Using PCMCIA Cards” on page 38.
Main Battery Your TransPort NX comes equipped with a factory-installed battery pack module.
After the battery runs down, the module can be removed and replaced with a
charged battery. Additional battery packs are optional. See “Batteries” on page
64.
Fax/Modem (Optional) If equipped, there will be a connector for modem and fax use. This allows you to
send information via the internet, conduct e-commerce, or simply surf the web, all
on your TransPort NX. See “Optional Fax/Modem” on page 75.
DC-Jack Fan PCMCIA Slots
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