NEC VERSA 5000 Series User manual

NEC Computer Systems Division,
A Division of Packard Bell NEC, Inc.
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
We, the Responsible Party
NEC Computer Systems Division
Packard Bell NEC, Inc.
1414 Massachusetts Avenue
Boxborough, MA 01719
[phone]
declare that the product
NEC V5000 Series
is in conformity with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation of this
product 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.

First Printing — December 1997
Copyright 1997
NEC Computer Systems Division, Packard Bell NEC, Inc.
1414 Massachusetts Avenue
Boxborough, MA 01719
All Rights Reserved
PROPRIETARY NOTICE AND LIABILITY DISCLAIMER
The information disclosed in this document, including all designs and related
materials, is the valuable property of NEC Computer Systems Division, Packard
Bell NEC (NECCSD, PBNEC) and/or its licensors. NECCSD and/or its licensors,
as appropriate, reserve all patent, copyright and other proprietary rights to this
document, including all design, manufacturing, reproduction, use, and sales rights
thereto, except to the extent said rights are expressly granted to others.
The NECCSD product(s) discussed in this document are warranted in accordance
with the terms of the Warranty Statement accompanying each product. However,
actual performance of each such product is dependent upon factors such as system
configuration, customer data, and operator control. Since implementation by
customers of each product may vary, the suitability of specific product
configurations and applications must be determined by the customer and is not
warranted by NECCSD.
To allow for design and specification improvements, the information in this
document is subject to change at any time, without notice. Reproduction of this
document or portions thereof without prior written approval of NECCSD is
prohibited.
FaxFlash is a service mark of NEC Computer Systems Division (NECCSD), Packard Bell, Inc.
NEC is a registered trademark, Versa is a U.S. registered trademark, VersaBay, VersaGlide and PortBar
are trademarks, and UltraCare is a U.S. registered service mark of NEC Corporation, used under license.
All other product, brand, or trade names used in this publication are the property of their respective owners.

Using this Guide ix
Using this Guide
The NEC Versa®5000 Series User’s Guide gives you the
information you need to maximize the use of your NEC
Versa 5000 Series notebook computer. Read this guide to
familiarize yourself with the system and its features. For
specific information see:

Chapter 1, “Getting Started,” to acquaint yourself with
the system hardware.

Chapter 2, “Introducing the Software,” for a summary
of the applications loaded on your system. We included
software to let you experience the full spectrum of the
system, from creating vivid multimedia presentations to
simply enjoying an audio CD.
 Chapter 3, “Using Setup and Power Management,” to
customize your notebook’s system parameters and
power management settings.
 Chapter 4, “Using Your NEC Versa,” for an understand-
ing of NEC Versa features and functionality. You’ll also
master procedures for connecting external options like
headphones, microphone or speakers.
 Chapter 5, “Using Multimedia,” for steps on integrating
video and sound clips into impressive presentations.
 Chapter 6, “Traveling with Your NEC Versa,” lists
valuable tips for getting the most out of your system
while on the road.
 Chapter 7, “Solving Problems,” provides simple solu-
tions to common problems that may arise while operat-
ing your notebook.

x Using this Guide

Appendix A, “Setting Up a Healthy Work Environ-
ment,” provides guidelines to help promote a healthy
work setting.
 Appendix B, “Specifications,” to review NEC Versa
5000 Series system specifications and operating
conditions.

Appendix C, “NECCSD Information Services,” gives
details about the many support services available from
NECCSD.

Appendix D, “Using DOS Programs,” provides guide-
lines for setting up and running DOS programs from
Windows 95.
TEXT SETUP
To make this guide as easy to use as possible, text is set up
in the following ways.
 Warnings, cautions, and notes have the following
format:
!
WARNING
Warnings alert you to situations that could result in
serious personal injury or loss of life.
!
CAUTION
Cautions indicate situations that can damage the
system hardware or software.

Using this Guide xi
NOTE
Notes give particularly important information
about whatever is being described.

Names of keys are printed as they appear on the key-
board, for example, Ctrl, Alt, or Enter.

Text that you must type or keys that you must press are
presented in bold type. For example, type dir and press
Enter.
RELATED DOCUMENTS
See the following documents for additional information on
your NEC Versa 5000 Series notebook computer:
 The NEC Versa 5000 Series Quick Setup sheet helps
you get your system up and running.

The NEC Versa 5000 Series Quick Reference card pro-
vides an easy-to-carry reference to LED meanings, con-
trols, function key combinations, and NEC help
numbers.

An online version of this user’s guide on your hard disk
drive lets you leave your printed guide at home and still
have all the information you need at your fingertips.

Contents iii
Contents
Using this Guide .................................................................... ix
Text Setup................................................................ x
Related Documents................................................... xi
1 Getting Started
Getting to Know Your NEC Versa 5000 ................... 1-2
Around the Front of the System................................. 1-3
LCD Panel........................................................... 1-3
Microphone and Speakers.................................... 1-4
Power Button and Status LEDs............................ 1-4
Keyboard............................................................. 1-7
NEC VersaGlide.................................................. 1-7
UltraSlim VersaBay Drives.................................. 1-8
Around the Back of the System ................................. 1-9
Around the Sides of the System................................. 1-10
Around the Bottom of the System.............................. 1-12
NEC Versa Power Sources ....................................... 1-14
Using the AC Adapter.......................................... 1-14
Powering On................................................... 1-16
Using the Main Battery Pack................................ 1-16
Installing the Battery Pack .............................. 1-17
Recharging the Battery Pack................................ 1-21
Battery Handling.................................................. 1-21
Battery Life......................................................... 1-22
Extending Battery Life......................................... 1-22
Battery Precautions.............................................. 1-23
Battery Charging ................................................. 1-24
Battery Disposal.................................................. 1-24
Internal Batteries ...................................................... 1-24
CMOS Battery .................................................... 1-25
Bridge Battery ..................................................... 1-25

iv Contents
System Care ............................................................. 1-25
Precautions.......................................................... 1-26
Storage Requirements .......................................... 1-28
Routine Cleaning ................................................. 1-29
2 Introducing the Software
Windows 95 Introduction.......................................... 2-2
Guide to Online Help ................................................ 2-3
The Setup Utility ...................................................... 2-4
Other Software ......................................................... 2-4
LapLink............................................................... 2-5
How to Use LapLink....................................... 2-5
McAfee AntiVirus Software................................. 2-7
CyberMedia First Aid 97 ..................................... 2-8
Online Services......................................................... 2-8
Prodigy Internet................................................... 2-10
America Online.................................................... 2-11
CompuServe........................................................ 2-12
AT&T WorldNet................................................. 2-13
Microsoft Internet Explorer.................................. 2-13
Microsoft NetMeeting.......................................... 2-14
Official Airline Guide (OAG)............................... 2-14
3 Using Setup and Power Management
Setup Utility............................................................. 3-1
How to Enter Setup.............................................. 3-1
How to Use Setup................................................ 3-2
The Setup Screen............................................ 3-2
Using Keys............................................................... 3-3
Checking/Setting System Parameters............... 3-4
Main............................................................... 3-9
Advanced........................................................ 3-10
Security.......................................................... 3-10
Power Savings................................................ 3-13
Exit................................................................ 3-14
Using Power Management......................................... 3-15
Power Saving Modes ........................................... 3-15
Power Management Settings ................................ 3-16

Contents v
4 Using Your NEC Versa
LCD......................................................................... 4-1
Support Feet............................................................. 4-2
Keyboard.................................................................. 4-3
Function Keys...................................................... 4-4
NEC VersaGlide....................................................... 4-6
Making VersaGlide Adjustments.......................... 4-7
VersaGlide Tips.............................................. 4-8
UltraSlim VersaBay Use........................................... 4-9
20X CD-ROM Reader.............................................. 4-12
CD Loading......................................................... 4-13
Using Bootable CDs ....................................... 4-14
Using Audio CDs............................................ 4-15
Playing Entertainment CDs............................. 4-15
Playing Movie CDs......................................... 4-15
CD Care.............................................................. 4-16
PC Cards.................................................................. 4-16
Type II Cards ...................................................... 4-17
Type II Extended Cards ....................................... 4-17
Type III Cards..................................................... 4-17
Communication Cards..................................... 4-17
PC Card Modems ........................................... 4-18
Storage Cards................................................. 4-18
Interface Cards............................................... 4-18
Other Cards.................................................... 4-18
PC Card Slots...................................................... 4-19
Inserting a PC Card ........................................ 4-19
Removing a Card............................................ 4-21
IR Port ..................................................................... 4-22
Increasing System Storage and Memory.................... 4-23
Hard Disk............................................................ 4-23
Removing and Installing a
Hard Disk Drive ......................................... 4-23
Installing Memory Modules.................................. 4-26
Running PhDisk................................................... 4-29
Removing a Memory Module............................... 4-30
Reviewing the Memory Map ........................... 4-32

vi Contents
Installing Options...................................................... 4-33
External Keyboard or Mouse ............................... 4-33
Printer................................................................. 4-35
Serial Devices................................................. 4-35
Parallel Devices.............................................. 4-37
External Monitor ................................................. 4-38
External Diskette Drive Connection...................... 4-40
External USB Devices ......................................... 4-40
Audio Devices ..................................................... 4-41
NEC PortBar 5000.............................................. 4-42
PortBar Ports.................................................. 4-43
Attaching the PortBar 5000............................. 4-43
Disconnecting the PortBar............................... 4-44
5 Using Multimedia
Audio ....................................................................... 5-1
Recording............................................................ 5-1
Line-In ................................................................ 5-3
Microphone ......................................................... 5-3
Playing Back ....................................................... 5-4
Using Headphones .......................................... 5-5
Using the Built-In Speakers............................. 5-5
Using External Stereo Speakers....................... 5-5
MIDI Files........................................................... 5-5
Video........................................................................ 5-6
Using Animation Files.......................................... 5-6
Multimedia Applications........................................... 5-7
6 Traveling with Your NEC Versa
Power Connections ................................................... 6-1
Checklists................................................................. 6-2
What to Take....................................................... 6-2
Preparing Your NEC Versa for Travel................. 6-3
7 Solving Problems
Problem Checklist..................................................... 7-1
Start-Up Problems.................................................... 7-3

Contents vii
POST Error Messages......................................... 7-3
If You Need Assistance............................................. 7-6
Updating the System BIOS ....................................... 7-6
Using the Product Recovery CD................................ 7-7
Full Restore......................................................... 7-7
Selective Installation............................................ 7-10
A Setting Up a Healthy Work Environment
Making Your Computer Work for You...................... A-1
Arrange Your Equipment.......................................... A-3
Adjust Your Chair .................................................... A-3
Adjust Your Input Devices........................................ A-4
Adjust Your Screen or Monitor................................. A-5
Vary Your Workday................................................. A-6
Pre-Existing Conditions and Psychosocial Factors..... A-7
B Specifications
C NECCSD Information Services
How to Reach Us...................................................... C-2
NECCSD Diskette Fulfillment Center .................. C-2
NECCSD Customer Service and
Technical Support Center (TSC)...................... C-3
NECCSD Customer Assistance Center................. C-4
NECCSD FaxFlash Service................................. C-4
Using FaxFlash............................................... C-4
Ordering Information...................................... C-5
NECCSD Bulletin Board System (BBS)............... C-6
Logging On .................................................... C-7
Logging Off.................................................... C-8
NECCSD on CompuServe................................... C-9
Using CompuServe......................................... C-9
NECCSD on America Online............................... C-10
Using America Online..................................... C-10
NECCSD on the Internet...................................... C-11
NECCSD WWW and FTP Sites..................... C-11
NECCSD E-Mail and Fax ................................... C-12

viii Contents
Warranty and Non-Warranty Repair Service............. C-12
D Using DOS Programs
Setting Up DOS Mode Games................................... D-1
Adding a Game Icon to the Desktop ..................... D-1
Specifying MS-DOS Mode .................................. D-2
Glossary
Index

Getting Started 1-1
Getting Started
!
WARNING
Prolonged or improper use of a computer work-
station may pose a risk of serious injury. To reduce
your risk of injury, set up and use your computer in
the manner described in Appendix A, Setting Up a
Healthy Work Environment.
After completing the steps in the quick setup sheet that
comes with your computer, your NEC Versa 5000 Series
system is ready to go! To get started:
 Read Appendix A, Setting Up a Healthy Work Envi-
ronment, for guidelines that help you use your computer
productively and safely. Information includes how to set
up and use your computer to reduce your risk of devel-
oping nerve, muscle, or tendon disorders.

Read through this guide to familiarize yourself with the
NEC Versa 5000.
1

1-2 Getting Started
GETTING TO KNOW YOUR NEC VERSA 5000
The NEC Versa 5000 Series notebook computer offers you
a thin, lightweight, portable system filled with exciting re-
sources for home, business, or travel. Standard features in-
clude a powerful Intel®Pentium MMX microprocessor that
works together with at least 16 megabytes (MB) of prein-
stalled Extended Data Out (EDO) Random Access Memory
(RAM) for exceptional performance.
In addition, your system gives you: a high-performance hard
disk drive, a 20X CD-ROM reader, diskette drive, built-in
VersaGlide (like a mouse), and PC card slots. As a multi-
media system, your NEC Versa 5000 also provides the
tools needed to create and present impressive images using
video clips and sound.
To get comfortable with your notebook, read the following
sections and take a tour around your system!
NEC Versa 5000 Series notebook computer

Getting Started 1-3
AROUND THE FRONT OF THE SYSTEM
The NEC Versa 5000 is compact with features on every
side. First, look at the front of the system. The following
sections describe front features, beginning with the liquid
crystal display (LCD) panel.
Front features
LCD Panel Your NEC Versa 5000 Series system comes with a color
LCD that you can adjust for a comfortable viewing
position. Some models have a 12.1-inch, Thin Film
Transistor (TFT), backlit Super Video Graphics Array
(SVGA) color LCD display. Other models come with a
13.3-inch Extended Graphics Array (XGA) LCD display.
To adjust the LCD panel brightness, press the Fn-F5 key
combination after the system is powered on.

1-4 Getting Started
Microphone and Speakers
A microphone is built into the panel just below the LCD
and lets you record monophonic sound directly into the
NEC Versa 5000.
Two stereo speakers are also built into the panel, one on the
left and one on the right, for your multimedia presentations
or listening pleasure.
Turn the volume control wheel (located on the left side of
the NEC Versa 5000) clockwise to increase, or counter-
clockwise to decrease sound volume.
Power Button and Status LEDs
Your NEC Versa provides a Power button and LEDs to
track system status. Descriptions of these features follow
the figure.
Power button and Status LED location

Getting Started 1-5

Power Button — The Power button is located on the
chassis just below the LCD. It turns NEC Versa 5000
power on and off. Press the button to turn power on;
press it again to turn power off.
When power is on, the Power LED to the right of the
Power button lights. (The Power LED is the left-most
LED in the row of LEDs.) See “Setup Parameters” in
Chapter 3 for information about defining this button as a
Suspend/Resume button.
If your system is in Suspend mode or has gone into Save
to Disk mode, pressing the Power button puts the system
in Operation mode.
NOTE
After turning off the system, wait 5 seconds
before turning it back on. This gives system compo-
nents a chance to power down properly.
 The Battery/Charging Status LED is located on the
right-hand LCD hinge and lights to indicate the
following:
 Green – the battery is fully charged and the system
is connected to AC power.
 Amber – the battery is recharging.
 Off – the AC adapter is disconnected or the battery
is not installed.

1-6 Getting Started

A bank of status LEDs is located on the chassis at the
top of the keyboard to the right of the Power button.
These LEDs are identified by icons and include the fol-
lowing (described from left to right):
 The Power LED lights in the following sequence to
indicate system operation status.
– lights green when running on AC power.
– blinks green when the system is in Suspend
mode.
– lights amber when running on battery power
with a charged battery.
The Power LED also warns you about a low battery
state. The system emits a beep and the Power LED
behaves as follows:
– blinks amber when battery power is low.
– flashes amber when battery power is extremely
low.
The Power LED remains unlit under the following
conditions:
– if the system is not connected to AC power and
the battery is not charged or installed.
– the system is not powered on.
– the system is in Save to Disk mode.

Getting Started 1-7
 Hard Disk Drive – Lights when the NEC Versa
5000 writes data to or retrieves data from the hard
disk drive.
 CD-ROM Reader – Lights when data is read from a
compact disc in the CD-ROM drive.
 Diskette Drive – Lights when data is written to or
retrieved from the 3.5-inch diskette drive.
 Caps Lock – Lights when Caps Lock is on.
 Num Lock – Lights when Num Lock mode is active.
 Scroll Lock – Lights when the Scroll Lock is on.
Keyboard The NEC Versa 5000 Series system comes with an 85-key
keyboard, featuring an embedded numeric keypad and in-
verted T cursor keys. See Chapter 4, “Using Your NEC
Versa,” for details about control keys, function keys, and
keyboard features.
NEC VersaGlide
The NEC VersaGlide works like a standard computer
mouse. Simply move your fingertip over the VersaGlide to
control the position of the cursor. Use the selection buttons
below the VersaGlide to select menu items. The left button
is configured to function like the left button on a mouse.
The right button is configured as a right-mouse button.
See “NEC VersaGlide” in Chapter 4 for information about
customizing VersaGlide settings.

1-8 Getting Started
UltraSlim VersaBay Drives
The NEC Versa 5000 support the following drives that fit
in the UltraSlim VersaBay as follows:

CD-ROM Reader — A 20X CD-ROM lets you load and
start programs from compact discs, or insert and play
your favorite audio CDs. The CD-ROM reader is as-
signed drive letter E.
NOTE
The CD-ROM reader ships with a paper
shipping restraint installed. Remove the restraint by
lifting on the paper edge near the center hole. Do
not insert a CD with the restraint installed.
Save the shipping restraint to use if you plan to
travel with the CD-ROM reader installed.
 Diskette Drive — A 3.5-inch, 1.44-MB diskette drive
that accepts 1.44-MB high-density diskettes as well as
720-KB double-sided double-density diskettes, or a Su-
perDisk LS-120 optical drive that accepts 120-MB or
1.44-MB diskettes and is assigned drive letter A.
Your system also ships with an External Diskette Drive
cable that lets you connect the diskette drive to the back
of your system while the CD-ROM reader is installed in
the VersaBay.

Getting Started 1-9
AROUND THE BACK OF THE SYSTEM
System ports for connecting your NEC Versa 5000 to op-
tional devices (like a printer or external monitor) are located
on the back of the system. For an understanding of each
feature, see the descriptions that follow the figure.
Back system features
 Keyboard/Mouse Port — Use the standard PS/2 port to
connect an external PS/2-style mouse or a PS/2-style
keyboard to the system.
 Support Feet — Slide the two support feet down from
the back of the unit to tilt your system forward for more
comfortable keyboard access.
 Infrared (IR) Port — Use this port to transfer files be-
tween your NEC Versa and an IR-equipped desktop or
notebook computer. You can also print to an IR-
equipped printer without using cables.
 Expansion Port — Use this 120-pin port to connect to
the NEC PortBar 5000.
 Monitor (Video) Port — Use this 15-pin port to attach
an external monitor to your NEC Versa 5000. You can
run the LCD display and the external monitor simulta-
neously or run either alone.