Sharp PC-9300 User manual

i
How to Use this Manual
This manual describes your new notebook and contains all the information you
need to set up and use the notebook. Whether you are a new or an experienced
user, you will benefit more from this manual if you are familiar with its
organization. This manual describes the PC-9300T and PC-9300D notebooks.
Unless otherwise specified, the descriptions in this manual apply to both models.
Illustrations are based on the PC-9300T notebook.
The manual is divided into five chapters, plus appendixes.
Chapter 1 Introducing the System gives a general introduction to the notebook,
explaining the main functions such as the keyboard, the indicator lamps, etc.
Chapter 2 Using the Notebook for the First Time gives the basic steps for
getting your notebook up and running.
Chapter 3 Setup Utility shows how you can make changes to the operation and
power management of the notebook by using the Setup utility.
Chapter 4 Using the Notebook describes how to carry out typical operations on
the notebook such as using the disk drives, using the GlidePoint, changing the
display, and so on.
Chapter 5 System Expansion describes how you can use the notebook’s built-in
ports and connectors to add peripheral components to your system.
Appendixes provide advice on the routine care and maintenance of the notebook,
a guide to troubleshooting problems that may arise in the use of the notebook, and
detailed specifications on your notebook and the built-in ports. For your
convenience, an index is provided at the end of this manual.
In addition to this manual, you may want to consult the Windows 95 manual, and the
manuals for your software applications. The Sharp Online Manual, accessible from
the Windows 95 Start Menu, will also help your computing.

ii
Manual Conventions
This manual uses different text styles to help identify different operations and
functions of your notebook.
Keyboard Keys
When referring to specific keys on the keyboard, the key label appears in boldface
as shown below:
Press Enter to execute the installation.
When referring to a combination of keys that are pressed simultaneously, the key
labels are separated by a plus sign (+) as shown below:
Pressing Ctrl + Alt + Del lets you reset your notebook.
Sample Entries/Prompts/Screens
This manual contains sample screens that might appear during the operation of
your notebook, including prompts (text generated by the system) and entries (text
you type on the keyboard). These are printed in a typeface like the one below:
Re-enter your password for verification.
In the following case, press the Enter key after you type the command.
C:\>FORMAT A: Enter
The screens reproduced in this manual may differ slightly from the screens you
see on your notebook.
File Names
References to commands, utilities, device drivers, directory and file names in this
manual are printed in upper case.
The CONFIG.SYS file contains the specifications for configuring the
system.

iii
Section Titles/Possible Parameters
In a section of text, words which represent selectable parameters, or words which
refer to other sections in the manual are italicized.
Select Disabled to disable the floppy disk drive. See the section Making
Changes in the Main Page for more details.
Notes and Cautions
Icons and italic text are used for notes and cautions, to make important
information stand out.
Notes: Notes give you helpful hints or suggestions on ways of performing
certain operations.
Cautions: Cautions alert you that damage to equipment or loss of data
may occur if certain procedures are not followed carefully.

iv
Recording Information
For future reference, please record the following information in the spaces
provided below.
Model Number:
Serial Number:
BIOS Version
Number:
Date of purchase:
Dealer’s Name:
Place of purchase:
Password:
The serial number is printed on a sticker located on the bottom of the notebook.
You will see the BIOS Version number on the LCD screen when you turn on the
notebook.

v
Unpacking the Notebook
Please check that all the accessories listed below have been included with your
computer.
Main Unit AC Adapter Power Cord Modem Cable (US
& Canada only)
(PC-9300T only)
•Windows 95 Manual Pack (CD-ROM and Manual)
•Backup CD-ROM
•CD-ROM Setup Boot Disk
•Operation Manual
•Re-installation Instructions
•TranXit Quick Reference Guide
•Sharp Import/Export User’s Guide
•SuperVoice Manual (US & Canada only) (PC-9300T only)
•AT Command Reference Manual (US & Canada only) (PC-9300T only)
In addition, your notebook package includes various software license agreements,
warranty cards, and so on. If any of the listed accessories are missing, or if the
main unit or accessories are damaged, please consult your dealer (or in case of
US, a Sharp Customer Service Center at 1-800-BE-SHARP).
Note: Only the PC-9300T is equipped with a fax/modem. The fax/modem
is available only in the USA and Canada.

vi
About the System Documentation
The manuals included with your notebook are used as follows:
Operation Manual (this manual)
This manual gives instructions on how to operate your computer successfully. It
also explains how you can use some of the software that is pre-installed on the
hard disk drive, and how you can add extra devices to your notebook, either
internally or externally.
Re-installation Instructions
This manual explains how to re-install the Windows 95 operating system and the
utility programs that are pre-installed on your notebook's hard disk drive.
Windows 95 Manual & License
This manual explains the basic procedures for using Windows 95.
TranXit Quick Reference Guide
This guide is an introduction to the TranXit infrared communications program
and basic instructions.
Sharp Import/Export User's Guide
This guide is an introduction to the Import/Export infrared communications
program.
SuperVoice Manual (US & Canada only) (PC-9300T only)
This manual explains how to use the fax/modem software.
AT Command Reference Manual (US & Canada only) (PC-9300T only)
This manual explains the AT command set, S-registers and result codes of the
built-in fax/modem.
Note: All the programs supplied with this notebook have already been
installed on the hard disk, so please disregard all installation instructions
mentioned in the manuals. If you need to reinstall the software, please
refer to the Re-installation Instructions and to each software manual.

a
Table of Contents
Preface
How to Use this Manual.........................................................................................i
Manual Conventions.............................................................................................ii
Recording Information.........................................................................................iv
Unpacking the Notebook.......................................................................................v
About System Documentation ..............................................................................vi
Chapter 1: Introducing the System
Introduction .......................................................................................................1-1
A Brief Tour of the System.................................................................................1-3
Opening the Unit ........................................................................................... .. 1-3
Inside the Main Unit ..........................................................................................1-4
Right-side Components......................................................................................1-7
Left-side Components.........................................................................................1-7
Rear-Edge Ports.................................................................................................1-9
Components in the Unit Base...........................................................................1-10
Chapter 2: Using the Notebook for the First Time
Connecting the AC Adapter ...............................................................................2-1
System Start-up and Shut-down.........................................................................2-2
Personal Windows Installation ...................................................................... .. 2-2
System Shut Down......................................................................................... .. 2-3
Using The Keyboard ..........................................................................................2-4
About the Keyboard....................................................................................... .. 2-4
Key Legends.................................................................................................. .. 2-5
Special Key Combinations............................................................................. .. 2-5
Special Windows 95 Keys ............................................................................. .. 2-7
Chapter 3: Setup Utility
About the Setup Utility.......................................................................................3-1
Starting the Setup Utility ............................................................................... .. 3-1
Using the Setup Utility .................................................................................. .. 3-2
Leaving the Setup Utility............................................................................... .. 3-2
Making Changes to the Main Page....................................................................3-4
Making Changes to the Advanced Page ............................................................3-6
Making Changes to the Security Page...............................................................3-8
About Passwords..............................................................................................3-10
Setting and Changing the Password............................................................... 3-11

Making Changes to the Power Page ...............................................................3-12
System Power Management.............................................................................3-13
Windows Power Management ....................................................................... 3-14
User-selectable Power Management.............................................................. 3-14
Making Changes to the Boot Page..................................................................3-17
Chapter 4: Using the Notebook
Power Supply.....................................................................................................4-1
Using the AC Adapter.................................................................................... .. 4-1
Using the Battery Pack................................................................................... .. 4-2
Battery Low Indications................................................................................. .. 4-2
Initializing the Battery................................................................................... .. 4-3
Battery Condition........................................................................................... .. 4-4
Storing and Retrieving Data..............................................................................4-4
Using the Fax/modem (US & Canada only)(PC-9300T only)...........................4-7
GlidePoint .........................................................................................................4-8
PC Card Slots..................................................................................................4-10
Inserting and Removing PC Cards................................................................. 4-11
Installing PC Card Drivers............................................................................. 4-12
Setting the COM Port .................................................................................... 4-13
Infrared Communications................................................................................4-14
Positioning and Preparing the Notebook and the Target Device ................... 4-14
Chapter 5: System Expansion
Installation Safety Precautions..........................................................................5-1
Installing a Memory Module .............................................................................5-2
Changing the Battery.........................................................................................5-3
Using the Parallel Port .....................................................................................5-4
Using the External Monitor Port.......................................................................5-5
Switching the Video Display......................................................................... .. 5-5
Resolution and Number of Colors Displayed ................................................ .. 5-7
Using the Serial Port.........................................................................................5-8
Using the PS/2 Port...........................................................................................5-8
Using the Video Out Jack..................................................................................5-9
Using the Audio Ports .....................................................................................5-11
Using the Game/MIDI Port.............................................................................5-11

c
Appendixes
Appendix A: System Maintenance.....................................................................A-1
Taking the Notebook on the Road................................................................. ..A-1
Cleaning the Notebook.................................................................................. ..A-2
Appendix B: Notes on Software ........................................................................B-1
About the Suspend-to-disk Partition.............................................................. ..B-1
Memory Management Software..................................................................... ..B-4
Appendix C: Troubleshooting...........................................................................C-1
Appendix D: System Mapping...........................................................................D-1
Memory Map ................................................................................................. . D-1
DMA Channels.............................................................................................. . D-1
System Interrupts........................................................................................... . D-2
I/O Address Map............................................................................................ . D-3
Appendix E: Connector Pin Assignments .........................................................D-1
Printer (Parallel) Port..................................................................................... ..E-1
PS/2 Port........................................................................................................ ..E-1
Serial (RS-232C) Port.................................................................................... ..E-2
External Monitor (SVGA) Port...................................................................... ..E-2
Joystick/MIDI Port ........................................................................................ ..E-2
Appendix F: Specifications...............................................................................F-1
Main Unit....................................................................................................... ..F-1
Memory Modules........................................................................................... ..F-2
Spare Battery Pack: CE-M50EB.................................................................... ..F-2

CHAPTER 1
Introducing the System
This compact-size notebook computer is packed with a full range of multimedia
and communications features found on a full-size desktop computer. This chapter
gives general information on the system components and functions.

1-1
Introduction
This lightweight compact-size notebook computer has the following features.
•150 MHz Pentium processor with internal cache memory, and 256K of level 2
cache memory.
•16 MB EDO memory (upgradable to a maximum of 48 MB).
•Built-in hard disk drive and 1.44 MB floppy disk drive.
•Color display using either a dual scan 12.1"diagonal screen or an active
matrix 11.3"diagonal screen. Screen sizes are measured diagonally.
•Built-in 10X CD-ROM drive (average speed).

1-2
•Built-in 33.6 Kbps fax/modem with software support for voice mail,
speakerphone, and telephone answering (US & Canada only) (PC-9300T only).
•Two Type-II or one Type-III compatible PC card slots, with Zoomed-Video
support on the lower slot.
•Removable Nickel-Metal Hydride battery pack.
•A 64-bit display controller, which operates over a high-speed PCI bus and
includes a video accelerator and 2 MB of video memory. Display output is
Super VGA 800 x 600 dots.
•Fast infrared communication, and I/O (input/output) ports for serial and
parallel devices, external PS/2 keyboard or mouse, a joystick or a MIDI
device, analog monitor and video-out (NTSC/PAL).
•Latest graphical user interface, and an easy-to-use GlidePoint touchpad.
•16-bit stereo sound system compatible with the Sound Blaster Pro and
Windows Sound System standards. Built-in microphone, speakers, and jacks
for external microphone and stereo line in and out.
•Automatic power down of peripheral devices and system components, to save
battery power, controlled by an advanced power management function.
•Security feature which allows password protection on start-up and restricts
access to the floppy disk drive.
•Pre-installed Windows 95 and applications software.

1-3
A Brief Tour of the System
In this section, you will learn how to locate and use the primary components of
the notebook.
Opening the Unit
Open the display as follows.
1. The screen locking latch is located in the center of the front edge of the
notebook. Slide the latch to the right and then raise the screen cover.
2. Set the display to the best viewing angle.
Screen
Latch

1-4
Inside the Main Unit
Color Display
The PC-9300T uses an active matrix color display which has a diagonal length of
11.3".
The PC-9300D uses a dual scan color display which has a diagonal length of
12.1".
Power Switch
This switch turns on the power to the system. To turn the power on, press this
switch. When the notebook has been suspended to disk, the power switch is used
to resume it.
Stereo Speakers
Keyboard
Activity Indicators
Power Indicators
GlidePoint
Microphone
Power
Switch
Color Display

1-5
Keyboard
The keyboard has 87 keys (US English) or 88 keys (others). Many functions of
the notebook can be controlled by pressing special key combinations (hot keys).
Stereo Speakers
The speakers will output the sound that your notebook's software generates, or the
sound that you input through the sound ports.
Caution: Avoid placing floppy disks, or other magnetic storage media on
top of the speakers. The magnet inside the speakers may damage the data
on the disk.
GlidePoint
The GlidePoint is located just in front of the keyboard. The left and right selection
buttons are placed just in front of the GlidePoint surface. The GlidePoint
functions just like a mouse or trackball.
Power Indicators
The three power indicator lamps are located between the hinges of the screen
cover. From left to right, the power indicators have the following functions.
AC Power When the notebook is operating using power supplied
through the AC adapter, this indicator turns on with a green
color when the notebook is on, or blinks when the notebook
is in the suspend to RAM mode.
Battery Power When the notebook is operating using power supplied
through the internal battery, this indicator turns on with a
green color when the notebook is on, or blinks when the
notebook is in the suspend to RAM mode.
Battery Charge This indicator shows the status of the battery. When the
battery is charging it turns on with an amber color. When the
battery is fully charged, it changes to green. When the
battery is low on charge, it flashes with a red color.

1-6
Activity Indicators
The six activity indicators are located just above the center of the keyboard. The
lamps turn on when the function that they represent is active. From left to right,
the activity indicators have the following functions.
CD-ROM This indicator turns on whenever the system is reading from
a disc in the CD-ROM drive.
Hard Disk Drive This indicator turns on whenever the system is reading from,
or writing to the hard disk drive.
Floppy Disk Drive This indicator turns on whenever the system is reading from,
or writing to a diskette in the floppy disk drive.
Num Lock This indicator turns on when the keyboard is in Num Lock
mode. In this mode, the numeric keypad embedded in the
keyboard becomes active.
Caps Lock This indicator turns on when the keyboard is in Caps Lock
mode. In this mode, all typed text uses capital letters.
Scroll Lock This indicator turns on when the keyboard is in Scroll Lock
mode. In this mode, text will scroll onscreen without
changing the position of the cursor.
Microphone
The microphone is located near the front right edge of the notebook. The
microphone can be used to record sounds, or it can act as a telephone mouthpiece
when you are using the built-in fax/modem as a speakerphone (US and Canada
only) (PC-9300T only).

1-7
Right-side Components
CD-ROM Drive
The CD-ROM drive can be used to read from CD-ROM data discs, video discs,
and audio discs. Your notebook identifies the CD-ROM drive as drive R.
Infrared Port
The infrared port supports the ASK infrared standard, and also the IrDA infrared
standard. Your notebook identifies the infrared port as COM2.
Left-side Components
Security Cable Anchor
This rectangular hole can be used as an anchor point for a computer security
cable. You can use this cable to lock your notebook to a desk or some other
secure location, and so prevent theft.
PC Card Slots
Infrared PortCD-ROM Drive
Security
Cable Anchor
Audio Ports Telephone
(RJ11) Socket
PC Card Slots
Floppy Disk
Drive
Floppy Disk
Eject Button

1-8
There are two Type-II PC card slots. You can also use a Type-III PC card in the
lower slot. The lower slot has an integrated Zoomed Video port so that you can
use PC cards that support the Zoomed Video standard (ZV cards) in the lower
slot. Eject buttons for both slots are placed at the right side of the slots. The
buttons are folded down when not in use. Your notebook identifies the PC card
slots as drives D and E, when you are using PC cards that store data.
Audio Ports
The three audio ports are located below the PC card slots. From left to right the
audio ports are:
Audio Input Jack You can use this jack to input stereo sound from other devices,
such as a radio or a tape recorder, into your notebook.
External
Microphone Jack You can use this jack to input the sound from an external microphone into your notebook. When an external microphone
is connected to this jack, the built-in microphone is
automatically disabled.
Audio Output
Jack You can use this jack to output the sounds generated by your notebook to an external device such as stereo loudspeakers or
headphones. When an external device is connected, the built-in
speakers are automatically disabled.
Telephone (RJ11) Socket (US and Canada only) (PC-9300T only)
The telephone socket is used to connect the internal fax/modem to a telephone
cable that terminates in an RJ11 connector.
Floppy Disk Drive
The floppy disk drive can be used to read and write to 3.5"floppy disks with
capacities of 720K or 1.44 MB. Your notebook identifies the floppy disk drive as
drive A.
Hard Disk Drive
The hard disk drive is an internal component. It operates using an Enhanced IDE
(Integrated Drive Electronics) interface. Your notebook identifies the hard disk
drive as drive C.

1-9
Rear-Edge Ports
The rear-edge of the notebook has two connector compartments and an AC
adapter jack. You can access the connector compartments by pulling the
compartment covers open.
Expansion Connector
The expansion connector is in a separate compartment. The expansion connector
is used to connect your notebook to an optional port replicator (CE-M50PR). For
information on the port replicator, see the manual supplied with the CE-M50PR
port replicator.
AC Adapter Jack
You can plug the cable from the AC adapter into the AC adapter jack in order to
power your notebook from the AC adapter.
External Monitor Port
You can use the external monitor port to connect your notebook to an external
monitor that supports Super VGA and extended SVGA resolutions.
RS-232C Serial Port
You can use this port to connect your notebook to a serial device such as a serial
printer or a serial mouse. Your notebook identifies this port as COM1.
Video Out Jack
Use the video out jack to connect your notebook to a PAL or NTSC format TV
receiver.
Expansion
Connector
AC Adapter
J
ack
External
Monitor
P
ort
RS-232C
Serial Port
Video Out Jack
PS/2 Port Printer Port
Game /
MIDI
Port