NEC VERSA V User manual

First Printing — October 1994
Copyright 1994 Copyright 1994
NEC Technologies, Inc. NEC Corporation
1414 Massachusetts Avenue 7-1 Shiba 5-Chome, Minato-Ku
Boxborough, MA 01719 Tokyo 108-01, Japan
All Rights Reserved 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 Corporation (NEC) and/or its licensors.
NEC 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 NEC 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 NEC.
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 NEC is prohibited.
Versa is a U.S. trademark of NEC Technologies, Inc.
All other product, brand, or trade names used in this publication are the trademarks or
registered trademarks of their respective trademark owners.

Using this Guide ix
Using this Guide
This Versa™ V Series User’s Guide contains all the infor-
mation you need to use your notebook computer. To help
you get the most out of your Versa V, this guide describes
system features, options, and setup programs.
Read the following chapters to find out more about your
Versa V.
■Chapter 1 gives basic information like setting up the
notebook computer, using function keys, and reading
LCD status icons.
Chapter 1 describes the Versa V buttons, controls,
PCMCIA slots, and other features.
■Chapter 2 offers ideas for using your Versa V in the
office, at meetings, and on the road.
■Chapter 3 focuses on adding options, like PCMCIA
cards. This chapter also describes how to connect
external devices like printers, monitors, and keyboards.
■Chapter 4 describes the power-saving programs that
come with your Versa V. It introduces options for
conserving energy and saving battery power.
■Chapter 5 introduces you to the Versa V Auto Setup
program. This software lets you change the system
date and time, set a password, and define many other
system options.
■Chapter 6 gives you a checklist to follow if you
have problems with the Versa V. Solutions are
also suggested.

x Using this Guide
■Chapter 7 provides telephone numbers for NEC help and
information lines. This chapter guides you to locating
the help you need for basic system service or upgrades.
■Appendix A lists system specifications.
■Appendix B describes the NEC Communications
Assistant.
Use this guide along with the software documentation that
comes with your Versa V.
TEXT SETUP
To make this guide as easy to use as possible, text is set up
in the following ways.
■Cautions, notes, and tips have the following format:
CAUTION: Cautions indicate situations that can
damage the system hardware or software.
NOTE: Notes give particularly important information
about whatever is being described.
TIPS: Tips give helpful hints about getting the most
out of your system.

Using this Guide xi
■Names of keys are printed as they appear on the key-
board, for example, Ctrl, Alt, or Enter.
■Text that you have to type or keys that you must press
are presented in bold type. For example, type dir and
press Enter.
RELATED DOCUMENTS
In addition to this guide, a number of other documents ship
with your Versa V system, including:
Hardware Documents
■
The Versa V Quick Setup shows you how to set up your
system after you unpack it.
■The Versa Series Battery User’s Guide gives hints
about extending the life of your battery pack and sug-
gests energy conserving techniques.
■The Versa Series Quick Reference Card contains
brief descriptions of function keys, LEDs, NEC help
telephone numbers and troubleshooting tips. Tuck this
card inside the notebook when you take it with you.
The card is designed as a quick, portable reference to
frequently-used functions.
■The Versa Series PCMCIA User’s Guide contains
information about optional PCMCIA cards, their
installation, and use.
Software Documents
■
Microsoft Windows and MS-DOS 6 User’s Guide pro-
vides a comprehensive source of information for using
Windows™ and MS-DOS®.

Contents iii
Contents
Using this Guide ix
Text Setup................................................................ x
Related Documents................................................... xi
1 Getting to Know Your New Information Tool
What’s in the Box..................................................... 1-1
Setting it Up............................................................. 1-2
Features ................................................................... 1-4
LCD Panel .......................................................... 1-4
Function Keys ..................................................... 1-5
Key Combinations.......................................... 1-6
LCD Status Bar................................................... 1-8
PCMCIA Cards................................................... 1-12
VersaTrackBall ............................................... 1-13
Cleaning the VersaTrack................................. 1-13
Buttons and Controls........................................... 1-14
Smart Power Switch............................................ 1-16
Online Help......................................................... 1-16
Batteries.............................................................. 1-17
Main Battery.................................................. 1-17
Bridge Battery................................................ 1-18
CMOS Battery............................................... 1-19
Plug and Play...................................................... 1-19
System Care............................................................. 1-20
2 Using Your Versa V
In the Office............................................................. 2-1
Organizing and Managing Your Work ................. 2-2
Managing Your Time ..................................... 2-2
Managing Your Contacts................................ 2-2
Managing Data............................................... 2-2
Using a Scanner.............................................. 2-3

iv Contents
Keeping Secure............................................... 2-3
Creating Presentations......................................... 2-3
Creating Slides............................................... 2-3
Using Audio................................................... 2-3
Using CD-ROM............................................. 2-3
Communicating from the Office........................... 2-4
Using a Modem.............................................. 2-4
Using a Pager................................................. 2-4
Transferring Data........................................... 2-4
Sending E-Mail .............................................. 2-4
Unwinding with the Versa V................................ 2-4
In Meetings .............................................................. 2-5
Creating Instantly................................................ 2-5
Organizing in Meetings........................................ 2-5
Communicating the Essentials.............................. 2-5
Using a CRT Connector.................................. 2-5
Using Wireless LAN....................................... 2-6
Giving Demos...................................................... 2-6
On the Road............................................................. 2-6
Creating as You Travel........................................ 2-6
Organizing Yourself ............................................ 2-7
Communicating with Home.................................. 2-7
Using a Modem.............................................. 2-7
Using a Pager................................................. 2-7
Using Global Positioning ................................ 2-8
Unwinding on the Road........................................ 2-8
What to Take....................................................... 2-8
Before You Leave................................................ 2-9
3 Adding Options
PCMCIA Cards........................................................ 3-1
Inserting and Removing Cards ........................ 3-2
Modems ................................................................... 3-3
Telephone Line Connections ................................ 3-3
Connecting a Phone Cable Only...................... 3-4
Connecting a Phone and a Versa V.................. 3-5

Contents v
Memory Expansion................................................... 3-6
Hard Disk................................................................. 3-9
Printers .................................................................... 3-12
Parallel Printer .................................................... 3-12
Serial Printer....................................................... 3-14
External Keyboard.................................................... 3-14
External Mouse........................................................ 3-16
External Monitor...................................................... 3-18
Docking Station........................................................ 3-20
Expansion Bays................................................... 3-20
Expansion Slots................................................... 3-20
Ports ................................................................... 3-20
Port Replicator......................................................... 3-21
Ports ................................................................... 3-21
4 Understanding Power Management
What is Power Management?.................................... 4-1
Default Settings................................................... 4-1
Power-Saving Modes........................................... 4-2
Active Mode................................................... 4-2
Local Stand-by Mode ..................................... 4-2
Suspend Mode................................................ 4-3
Smart Power Switch....................................... 4-4
Automatic Suspend Mode Initiation ................ 4-4
Power Management with a Docking Station ......... 4-4
Prolonging Battery Life ............................................ 4-5
5 Using Auto Setup
Auto Setup............................................................... 5-1
How to Enter Auto Setup..................................... 5-2
With an Error at POST................................... 5-2
With No Error at POST.................................. 5-2
How to Use Auto Setup....................................... 5-3
Looking at the Screen ..................................... 5-3
Using Key Functions ...................................... 5-4
Checking/Setting System Parameters............... 5-5

vi Contents
System Parameter Options........................................ 5-6
Comms................................................................ 5-8
Drives ................................................................. 5-8
Keyboard ............................................................ 5-9
Power.................................................................. 5-10
System ................................................................ 5-12
Time/Date........................................................... 5-12
Security Options....................................................... 5-13
System Password................................................. 5-13
Setting an Initial System Password.................. 5-13
Using the System Password ............................ 5-14
Removing/Replacing a Password .................... 5-15
Keyboard Lock Hot Keys .................................... 5-16
Valid Keys ..................................................... 5-16
Invalid Keys................................................... 5-16
Selecting Hot Keys......................................... 5-17
Setting Your Hot Keys.................................... 5-17
Using Your Hot Keys ..................................... 5-18
6 Problem Solving
Problem Checklist..................................................... 6-1
Start-Up Problems.................................................... 6-3
If You Need Assistance............................................. 6-6
Direct Technical Support..................................... 6-6
Remote Technical Support................................... 6-7
Features ......................................................... 6-8
7 If You Need Help
UltraCare SUPPORT ............................................... 7-2
Support from the NEC Reseller................................. 7-3
Support from NEC................................................... 7-4
NEC FastFacts.................................................... 7-4
NEC Bulletin Board System ................................ 7-5
What is the BBS?........................................... 7-5
How Do You Use the BBS?............................ 7-6

Contents vii
NEC Technical Support....................................... 7-7
NEC Customer Service Response Center ............. 7-7
Mail-in Service......................................................... 7-8
Maintenance Contracts ............................................. 7-8
A Specifications
B NEC Communications Assistant
Glossary
Index
List of TablesTemperature and Humidity Requirements.................. 1-21
Automatic Power-Saving Features ............................ 4-1
Auto Setup Quick Reference..................................... 5-4
System Parameter Options........................................ 5-7
Troubleshooting........................................................ 6-2
POST Error Messages.............................................. 6-4

viii Contents

Getting to Know Your New Information Tool 1-1
Getting to Know Your
New Information Tool
Your Versa V is a wonderfully useful tool that you’ll soon
find is indispensable. It’s easy to carry around with you and
can be used for most of your information and communica-
tion needs.
WHAT’S IN THE BOX
Your Versa V comes with lots of features fully loaded on
the system. All you have to do is open the packing box,
unpack the notebook computer, the cables, and the Quick
Setup sheet. Look for the following.
Box contents
1
Notebook
Computer
AC Power
Cable
AC/DC
Adapter
User
Guides

1-2 Getting to Know Your New Information Tool
SETTING IT UP
1. Remove the Versa V from the packing box and press the
front latch to open the notebook.
Pressing the latch
2. Plug in the Versa to an AC (alternating current) power
source, using the cable and the AC adapter that came
with your Versa V. Simply plug the AC adapter into the
socket in the back of your system. Plug the cable into
the AC adapter and the other end into a wall socket.
LCD Release Latch

Getting to Know Your New Information Tool 1-3
The power connector
3. Press the power button to start up the system. The
power button is located on the top left of the unit.
Pressing the power button
You are now ready to familiarize yourself with your
new Versa.
Power Connector
Port
Power Button

1-4 Getting to Know Your New Information Tool
FEATURES Here are some of the Versa V’s features:
nLCD Panel
nFunction Keys
nLCD Status Bar
nPCMCIA Slots
nTrackball
nButtons and Controls
nSmart Power Switch
nOnline Help.
LCD Panel Your Versa V comes with one of three types of LCD panel,
a TFT color, DSTN color, or DSTN monochrome.
nThe active-matrix thin-film transistor (TFT) color LCD
has a resolution of 640 x 480 pixels, is backlit, and
supports up to 256 colors. The TFT LCD provides a
9.5-inch display area, brilliant resolution, and an
impressive array of colors.
nThe Dualscan Super-Twisted Nematic (DSTN) color
LCD uses cold cathode fluorescent tube (CCFT), is
backlit, and supports up to 256 colors. The STN LCD
provides a 9.5-inch display area, exceptional clarity, and
color for the most demanding graphics.
nThe monochrome LCD has a 640 x 480 pixel resolution
and supports 64 shades of gray. The 9.5-inch screen
uses the Dualscan Super-Twisted Nematic (DSTN)
backlit technology for crisp clear images. (Not available
in the U.S.)

Getting to Know Your New Information Tool 1-5
NOTE: NEC LCD panels meet exacting manufac-
turing standards. Of the 921,600 elements involved
in creating the display on your screen, NEC accepts
no TFT screen with more than 6 non-working ele-
ments. Although this may mean a pixel or two is
non-functional, its impact on your display should
prove minimal.
Function Keys
The function keys are located, as on most PCs, along the
top of keyboard. The Fn (Function) key activates functions
printed on keys having dual functions.
Function keys
Some special functions are specific to the Versa V systems.
These keys set specific parameters that are built into ROM
(Read-Only Memory).
Function
Keys
Fn Key

1-6 Getting to Know Your New Information Tool
Key Combinations
The key combinations for system-specific functions are
as follows.
Highlight
Use to set the color LCD contrast to standard or full high-
light for DOS text mode.
LCD/CRT
Use to toggle between LCD mode only, LCD and CRT
modes simultaneously, and CRT only screen mode.
Reverse LCD
Use to reverse the LCD screen image (monochrome only).
Backlight
Use to adjust the screen brightness to standard or full as
your environment requires.
Speaker
Use to regulate the speaker volume. Press Fn F6 to toggle
from off to low, medium, or high. A beep sounds when the
volume setting is changed.
Fn F1 Not used

Getting to Know Your New Information Tool 1-7
Power Management Levels
Use to set the power management level to off, custom, low,
or high. Notice the changes in the LCD panel as you toggle
the key combination.
Hard Disk Drive Spin Up/Down
Use to spin the hard disk up or down. Spin down means that
the motor that spins the disk within the hard disk drive shuts
off to save power. Spin up means the disk motor turns on
again. Pressing Fn F8 bypasses any timeout. A beep sounds
when the hard disk spins down or up.
Battery I
Use to reset the primary battery icon to four bars on the
LCD status bar. (yyyy) Use when you have reinserted
the primary battery.
Battery II
Use to reset the secondary battery icon to four bars on
the LCD status bar. (yyyy)Use when you have
reinserted the secondary battery.
Scroll Lock
Use of this key combination depends upon the software ap-
plication you are using. Refer to the application
user’s guide.
Fn F11 Not used.

1-8 Getting to Know Your New Information Tool
LCD Status Bar
The Versa V has an LCD indicator panel located above the
keyboard. It shows status for the following system functions
and components.
LCD status bar
Suspend
A half moon icon appears when the system is in Suspend
(or Sleep) mode.
Power Management
Faucet icons indicate the level of power management
being used.
Off
Indicates that power management is not enabled.
Low
LCD
Status Bar

Getting to Know Your New Information Tool 1-9
Indicates that power management is set at low.
High
Indicates that high power management is set.
Custom
Indicates custom power management features are set.
Hard Disk Drive Access
Indicates the hard disk drive is being accessed.
Diskette Drive Access
Indicates the diskette drive is being accessed.
Num Lock
Indicates the numeric keypad lock function is enabled.
Scroll Lock
Indicates the scroll lock function is enabled.

1-10 Getting to Know Your New Information Tool
Caps Lock
Indicates the caps lock function is enabled.
Battery
The left battery icon represents the primary battery and the
right battery icon represents the secondary battery.
Bars within the battery icons represent the remaining bat-
tery charge when the system is in use:
n4 bars indicate a 100% charge zzzz
n3 bars indicate a 75% charge zzz
n2 bars indicate a 50% charge zz
n1 bar indicates a 25% charge. z
If two fully charged batteries are installed, 8 bars contained
in 2 battery icons appear in the display. Neither the bars nor
icons blink.