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Acer 505 series User Manual

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TravelMate 505 series
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  • Page 1 TravelMate 505 series User’s guide...
  • Page 2 Copyright © 1999 Acer Incorporated All Rights Reserved TravelMate 505 Series Notebook Computer User’s Guide Part No.: 49.43F01.041 Original Issue: October 1999 Changes may be made periodically to the information in this publication without obligation to notify any person of such revision or changes. Such changes will be incorporated in new editions of this manual or supplementary documents and publications.

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    FCC notice FCC modem notice Important safety instructions Laser compliance statement Battery statement Year 2000 compliance statement Modem notice Connecting the computer Getting help and support Accessing online help Support information Care and maintenance Taking care of your computer Taking care of your AC adapter Taking care of your battery pack Cleaning and servicing 1 Getting familiar with your computer...
  • Page 4 Audio Securing your computer Security notch Passwords 2 Operating on battery power Battery pack Battery pack characteristics Installing and removing the battery pack Charging the battery Charging modes Checking the battery level Using the Windows battery meter Optimizing battery life Battery-low warning Power management Advanced Configuration and Power Interface...
  • Page 5 File transfer cable Key component upgrades Memory upgrade Installing memory Hard disk upgrade 4 Moving with your computer Disconnecting from the desktop Moving around Preparing the computer What to bring to short meetings What to bring to long meetings Taking the computer home Preparing the computer What to bring with you Special considerations...
  • Page 6 Display Device BIOS Utility Navigating the BIOS Utility System Information Basic System Configuration Startup Configuration Onboard Device Configuration System Security Setting a password Changing a password Removing a password Password icons Load Default Settings 6 Troubleshooting Frequently-asked questions Error messages Troubleshooting tips Using PC-Doctor Online services...

  • Page 7: Fcc Notice

    FCC notice This device has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This device generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.

  • Page 8: Fcc Modem Notice

    Use conditions This part complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation 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.

  • Page 9: Important Safety Instructions

    Important safety instructions Read these instructions carefully. Save these instructions for future reference. Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the product. Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth for cleaning. Do not use this product near water.
  • Page 10 If the product does not operate normally when the operating instructions are followed. Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operating instructions since improper adjustment of other controls may result in damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified technician to restore the product to normal condition.

  • Page 11: Laser Compliance Statement

    Laser compliance statement The CD-ROM drive in this computer is a laser product. The CD-ROM drive’s clas- sification label (shown below) is located on the drive. CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT CAUTION: INVISIBLE LASER RADIATION WHEN OPEN. AVOID EXPO- SURE TO BEAM. APPAREIL A LASER DE CLASSE 1 PRODUIT LASERATTENTION: RADIATION DU FAISCEAU LASER INVISIBLE EN CAS D’OUVERTURE.

  • Page 12: Battery Statement

    Battery statement The following statement refers to the internal lithium-ion battery that powers the computer’s clock. CAUTION Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Discard used batteries ac- cording to the manufacturer’s instructions.

  • Page 13: Year 2000 Compliance Statement

    2000 Compliant" logo, which certifies that this model has been tested by NSTL using the YMark2000 test, and has been found to meet NSTL's standards for Year 2000 hardware compliance. For more details, check the Acer Year 2000 Resource Center at (www.acer.com.tw/ service/y2k/index.htm).

  • Page 14: Modem Notice

    Modem notice This equipment has been approved to Council Division 98/482/EC - “CTR 21” for pan-European single terminal connection to the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN). However, due to differences between the individual PSTNs provided in different countries, the approval does not, of itself, give an unconditional assurance of successful operation on every PSTN termination point.
  • Page 15 This manual describes features of the TravelMate 505 series notebook computers. The TravelMate series of computers incorporate such features as CardBus, 16-bit stereo audio, internal pointing device, Universal Serial Bus, and all-in-one media storage. This manual should answer most of the questions you have about the day-to-day operation of your TravelMate notebook computer.

  • Page 16: Connecting The Computer

    Connecting the computer Connecting the computer is as easy as 1-2-3. Insert the battery pack into the battery compartment, then slide the battery compartment cover in place. Note: When using a battery pack for the first time, fully recharge the battery, then disconnect the adapter to use up the battery before recharging again.
  • Page 17 The POST (power-on self-test) routine then executes and Windows begins loading. Note: To turn off the power, slide and hold the power switch for more than four seconds. If you are using Windows 98, we recommend that you use the Shut Down command to turn off the computer.

  • Page 18: Getting Help And Support

    Place your proof-of- purchase in the flap located inside the front cover of the ITW passport. If the country you are traveling in does not have an Acer-authorized ITW service site, you can still get in contact with our offices worldwide.
  • Page 19 Click on Support Information. Note: If you are connected to the Internet and have World Wide Web access, visit our home page (www.acer.com/) and get an updated list of our worldwide offices, as well as information about our products.

  • Page 20: Care And Maintenance

    Care and maintenance Taking care of your computer Your computer will serve you well if you take care of it. • Do not expose the computer to direct sunlight. Do not place it near sources of heat, such as a radiator. •...

  • Page 21: Cleaning And Servicing

    • Dispose of used batteries according to local regulations. Recycle if at all possible. Cleaning and servicing When cleaning the computer, follow these steps: Power off the computer and remove the battery pack. Disconnect the AC adapter. Use a soft cloth moistened with water. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners. Contact your dealer or see your service technician if any of the following occurs: •...
  • Page 22 xxii...
  • Page 23 1 Getting familiar with your computer...
  • Page 24 This computer combines high-performance, versatility, power management features and multimedia capabilities with a unique style and ergonomic design. Work with unmatched productivity and reliability with your new power computing partner. This chapter gives an in-depth "tour" of the computer’s many features.
  • Page 25 Features This computer was designed with the user in mind. Here are just a few of its many features: Performance • Intel® Celeron™ processor with 128 KB level 2 cache • 64-bit/128-bit main memory • Large LCD display and PCI video with 128-bit graphics acceleration •...

  • Page 26: Getting Familiar With Your Computer

    1 Getting familiar with your computer (zoomed video) port support • Upgradeable memory and hard disk...

  • Page 27: Display

    Display The large graphics display offers excellent viewing, display quality and desktop performance graphics. The computer supports two different display configurations — High Performance Addressing (HPA) or Thin-Film Transistor (TFT). Video performance PCI video with 128-bit graphics acceleration and 2 MB video memory boost video performance.
  • Page 28 1 Getting familiar with your computer Caution: To avoid damaging the display, do not slam it when you close it. Also, do not place any object on top of the computer when the display is closed.

  • Page 29: Indicators

    Indicators The computer has six easy-to-read status indicators (LEDs) under the display screen. The Power and Standby indicators are visible even when you close the display cover so you can see the status of the computer while the cover is closed. Icon Function Power...

  • Page 30: Keyboard

    Keyboard The keyboard has full-sized keys with an embedded keypad, separate cursor keys, two Windows keys and twelve function keys. Special keys Lock keys The keyboard has three lock keys which you can toggle on and off. Lock Key Description Caps Lock When Caps Lock is on, all alphabetic characters typed are in uppercase.

  • Page 31: Embedded Numeric Keypad

    Embedded numeric keypad The embedded numeric keypad functions like a desktop numeric keypad. It is indicated by small characters located on the upper right corner of the keycaps. To simplify the keyboard legend, cursor-control key symbols are not printed on the keys.

  • Page 32: Windows Keys

    Windows keys The keyboard has two keys that perform Windows-specific functions. Description Windows logo key Start button. Combinations with this key perform special functions. Below are a few examples: á á á á Shift + á Application key Opens the application’s context menu (same as right-click). (Fn-Application key) The Euro symbol If your keyboard is in any of the following languages —...
  • Page 33 Danish, Swiss German, Swiss French, Czech, Belgian, Norwegian, Hungarian, Turkish, Swedish or Finnish — you can type the Euro symbol on your keyboard Note: Important! (for US keyboard users): The keyboard type is set when you first set up Windows. For the Euro symbol to work, the keyboard type has to be set to United States-International.

  • Page 34: Hotkeys

    Hotkeys The computer employs hotkeys or key combinations to access most of the computer’s controls like screen contrast and brightness, volume output and the BIOS setup utility. HotKey Icon Function Fn-F1 Hotkey help Fn-F2 Setup Fn-F3 Power Scheme Toggle Fn-F4 Sleep Fn-F5 Display toggle...
  • Page 35 HotKey Icon Function Fn-F7 Touchpad on/ Fn-F8 Speaker on/off Contrast up Contrast down Brightness up Brightness down Activating hotkeys When activating hotkeys, press and hold the first key Fn before pressing the other key in the hotkey combination. Description Turns the internal touchpad on and off. When you connect an external PS/2 mouse, the computer automatically disables the touchpad.

  • Page 36: Keyboard Ergonomics

    1 Getting familiar with your computer Keyboard ergonomics Located below the keyboard, the wide and curved palm rest is ergonomically designed to provide you with a very comfortable place to rest your hands while you type.

  • Page 37: Touchpad

    Touchpad The built-in touchpad is a PS/2-compatible pointing device that senses movement on its surface. This means the cursor responds as you move your finger on the surface of the touchpad. The central location on the palm rest provides optimum comfort and support.
  • Page 38 Function Left Button Drag Click and hold, then use finger to drag the cursor on the touchpad Access context menu Note: Keep your fingers dry and clean when using the touchpad. Also keep the touchpad dry and clean. The touchpad is sensitive to finger movements. Hence, the lighter the touch, the better the response.

  • Page 39: Storage

    Storage This computer supplies you with all-in-one media storage: • High-capacity Enhanced-IDE hard disk • Standard ultra-slim internal 3.5-inch floppy drive • High-speed ultra-slim CD-ROM drive Hard disk The hard disk can be upgraded when you need more storage space. Consult your dealer for details.
  • Page 40 Ejecting the CD-ROM tray To eject the CD-ROM drive tray when the computer is turned on, press the CD- ROM eject button. Note: When power is off, you can eject the CD-ROM drive tray using the emergency eject hole (see page 93). 1 Getting familiar with your computer...

  • Page 41: Ports

    Ports Ports allow you to connect peripheral devices to your computer as you would with a desktop PC Note: See Chapter 3 on how to connect external devices to the computer. Front ports The front panel contains ports for external audio connections. Icon Port Speaker-out jack...

  • Page 42: Rear Ports

    Rear ports Icon Port DC-in jack USB port PS/2 port Serial port Parallel port External monitor port Universal Serial Bus The Universal Serial Bus (USB) port is a high-speed serial bus which allows you to connect and daisy-chain USB peripherals without taking up precious system resources.

  • Page 43: Right Ports

    Right ports Icon PC card slot There is one type II/I or one type III CardBus PC card slot found on the right panel of the computer. This slot accepts credit-card-sized cards that enhance the usability and expandability of the computer. PC cards (formerly PCMCIA) are add-on cards for portable computers, giving you expansion possibilities long afforded by desktop PCs.

  • Page 44: Fax/Data Modem

    Inserting a card Insert the card into the slot and make the proper connections (e.g., network cable), if necessary. See your card manual for details. Ejecting a card Before ejecting a PC card: • Exit the application using the card. •...
  • Page 45 To use the fax/data modem port, connect a phone cable from the modem port to a telephone jack.

  • Page 46: Audio

    1 Getting familiar with your computer Audio The standard computer configuration includes 16-bit high-fidelity stereo audio with further enhancements that include 3D sound for true audio immersion. Front dual speakers direct sound towards you to further enhance sound output. Use the volume control knob to adjust the volume level. Turn the knob to the right to increase the volume;...

  • Page 47: Securing Your Computer

    Securing your computer Security features include hardware and software locks — a security notch and a two-level password scheme. Security notch A security notch located on the rear panel of the computer lets you connect a Kensington-compatible key-based computer security lock. Wrap a computer security lock cable around an immovable object such as a table or locked drawer handle.
  • Page 48 Setting a password You can set the password using: • Notebook Manager — go to page 75. • BIOS Utility — go to page 86. 1 Getting familiar with your computer...
  • Page 50 1 Getting familiar with your computer...
  • Page 51 battery 2 Operating on...
  • Page 52 The computer operates on AC or battery power. This chapter contains the information you need to know to operate the computer on battery power. It also includes information on how your computer manages and saves power.

  • Page 53: Operating On Battery Power

    2 Operating on battery power power...

  • Page 54: Battery Pack

    Battery pack The computer uses a battery pack that gives you long use between charges. Battery pack characteristics The battery pack has the following characteristics: • Employs current battery technology standards • Battery-low warning When the battery charge level becomes low, the status indicator of the computer flashes at regular intervals.

  • Page 55: Charging The Battery

    To install a battery pack, slide it into the battery compartment, then latch the battery compartment cover. Reverse the procedure to remove the battery pack. Charging the battery To charge the battery, slide the battery pack into the battery bay and plug the AC adapter into the computer and an electrical outlet.

  • Page 56: Checking The Battery Level

    Checking the battery level Using the Windows battery meter The Windows battery meter indicates the present battery level. Simply rest your cursor on the battery meter (or AC plug) icon on the taskbar to see the present charge level of your battery. Optimizing battery life This section helps you get the most out of battery operation.

  • Page 57: Battery-Low Warning

    Battery-low warning You never have to worry about battery power as long as you are using the AC adapter. However, when you operate the computer on battery power, pay extra attention to the power indicator on the display panel. The following signal indicates a battery-low condition: •...

  • Page 58: Power Management

    Power management This computer has a built-in power management unit that monitors system activity. System activity refers to any activity involving one or more of the following devices: keyboard, mouse, floppy drive, hard disk, peripherals connected to the serial and parallel ports, and video memory. If no activity is detected for a period of time (called an inactivity timeout), the computer stops some or all of these devices in order to conserve energy.

  • Page 59: Display Standby Mode

    How to exit Sleep mode depends upon which power-saving mode the computer is Display standby mode Screen activity is determined by the keyboard, the built-in touchpad, and an external PS/2 pointing device. If these devices are idle for the period specified by the LCD backlight Timeout value, the display shuts off until you press a key or move the touchpad or external mouse.

  • Page 60: Hibernation Mode

    The following signals indicate that the computer is in Standby mode: • The buzzer beeps (when the hotkey is pressed to enter into Standby mode) • The Standby indicator lights Warning! Unstored data is lost when you turn off the computer power in Standby mode or when the battery is drained.
  • Page 61 Warning! Do not change any devices (such as add memory) when the computer is in Hibernation mode.
  • Page 62 2 Operating on battery power...

  • Page 63: Peripherals And Options

    3 Peripherals and options...
  • Page 64 When connecting peripherals, read the manual included with the peripheral for operating instructions. You can purchase most of these and other options directly from Acer. This chapter also includes sections on how to upgrade key components. Key component upgradeability helps keep your computer in step with the latest technology.

  • Page 65: External Monitor

    External monitor To show graphical effects on a larger display, connect an external monitor to the CRT port. Read the monitor manual for additional instructions. Note: If an external monitor is not connected, closing the display cover puts the computer into Standby mode. Using simultaneous display Your computer takes advantage of Windows 98 multi-display capability, allowing you to use your computer for presentation purposes.

  • Page 66: External Keyboard

    3 Peripherals and options External keyboard This computer has a keyboard with full-sized keys and an embedded keypad. If you feel more comfortable using a desktop keyboard, you can install a PS/2- compatible external keyboard. To connect an external keyboard, plug the external keyboard into the PS/2 connector.

  • Page 67: External Keypad

    External keypad You can also use a 17-key numeric keypad for number-sensitive, data-entry applications. To connect the keypad, plug the keypad connector into the PS/2 port.

  • Page 68: External Pointing Device

    External pointing device This computer accepts either a PS/2-compatible or serial mouse or similar pointing device. Note: When using an external mouse, you may choose to disable the internal touchpad by pressing Fn-F7. External PS/2 mouse The built-in touchpad works alternately with an external PS/2 mouse which is hot- pluggable.

  • Page 69: Printer

    Printer This computer supports both serial and parallel printers. For a serial printer, plug the printer cable into the serial port. For a parallel printer, plug the printer cable into the parallel port. See your printer manual for operating instructions. Note: If the printer does not function, enter Setup and verify that the parallel port is enabled.

  • Page 70: Audio Devices

    3 Peripherals and options Audio devices Audio devices are easy to connect with the audio ports accessible from the front of the computer. You can plug an external microphone into the microphone-in jack or an audio line-in device into the audio line-in jack. Amplified speakers or headphones connect to the speaker/headphone-out jack.

  • Page 71: Pc Cards

    PC cards The computer has one CardBus PC card slot that can accommodate one type II/I or one type III PC card. Please consult your dealer for PC card options available that you can purchase for your computer.

  • Page 72: Usb Devices

    3 Peripherals and options USB devices The computer has a USB (Universal Serial Bus) port that allows you to connect peripherals without occupying too many resources. Common USB devices include the mouse and keyboard. Most USB devices also include a built-in USB port connector which allows you to daisy-chain other USB devices.

  • Page 73: Miscellaneous Options

    Miscellaneous options Additional power packs You can order an AC adapter and spare batteries. Battery pack It is a good practice to have a spare battery around, especially when you travel. The NiMH battery, coupled with the power management features of your computer, supplies you with more power on-the-go.

  • Page 74: File Transfer Cable

    3 Peripherals and options Connect the single connector end of the Y-bridge cable to the computer’s PS/2 port and the double connector ends to the two PS/2 devices. File transfer cable Besides using the infrared port, you can also transfer files between computers using a file transfer cable.

  • Page 75: Key Component Upgrades

    Key component upgrades Your computer delivers superior power and performance. However, some users and the applications they use may demand more. This computer allows you to upgrade key components when you need increased performance. Note: Contact your authorized dealer if you decide to perform a key component upgrade.

  • Page 76: Hard Disk Upgrade

    3 Peripherals and options Replace the memory door and secure it with the screws. The computer automatically detects and reconfigures the total memory size. Hard disk upgrade It is possible to upgrade your hard disk with a higher capacity drive when you need more storage space.

  • Page 77: Moving With Your Computer

    4 Moving with your computer...
  • Page 78 This chapter gives you tips and hints on things to consider when moving around or traveling with your computer.

  • Page 79: Disconnecting From The Desktop

    Disconnecting from the desktop Follow these steps to disconnect your computer from external accessories: Save your work in progress. Shut down the operating system. Turn off the computer. Disconnect the cord from the AC adapter. Disconnect the keyboard, pointing device, printer, external monitor, and other external devices.

  • Page 80: Moving Around

    4 Moving with your computer Moving around when you are just moving within short distances, for example, from your office desk to a meeting room Preparing the computer Before moving the computer, close and latch the display cover to place it in Standby mode.

  • Page 81: Taking The Computer Home

    Taking the computer home when you are moving from your office to your home or vice versa Preparing the computer After disconnecting the computer from your desktop, follow these steps to prepare the computer for the trip home: Remove all media from the drives. Failure to remove the media can damage the drive head.

  • Page 82: Setting Up A Home Office

    4 Moving with your computer Setting up a home office If you frequently work on your computer at home, it may be worthwhile to purchase a second AC adapter for use at home. With a second AC adapter, you can avoid transporting the extra weight to and from home.

  • Page 83: Traveling With The Computer

    Traveling with the computer when you are moving within a larger distance, for instance, from your office building to a client’s office building or traveling locally Preparing the computer Prepare the computer as if you were taking it home. Be sure the battery in the computer is charged.

  • Page 84: Traveling Internationally With The Computer

    Traveling internationally with the computer when you are moving from country to country Preparing the computer Prepare the computer as you would normally prepare it for traveling. What to bring with you Bring the following items with you. • AC adapter •...

  • Page 85: Software

    5 Software...
  • Page 86 This chapter discusses the important system utilities bundled with your computer.

  • Page 87: System Software

    System software The computer comes preloaded with the following software: • Windows operating system • DMI (Desktop Management Interface)-compliant hardware BIOS utility • System utilities, drivers and application software Note: To access Windows software applications, click on the Start button and select the application folder.

  • Page 88: Sleep Manager

    Sleep Manager Most notebook computers feature built-in power-saving functions. This computer has two power management modes, Standby and Hibernation. While Standby puts your computer into a light sleep state, Hibernation shuts off all power after saving the current state of your computer. The next time you slide the power switch, the computer resumes from where you left off.
  • Page 89 The Sleep Manager icon may or may not appear on the taskbar. A checkbox in the Sleep Manager main screen determines whether to enable or disable the icon on the taskbar. This icon shows the current status of the Hibernation feature. The icon changes to tell you if the feature is valid or not.

  • Page 90: Sleep Manager Functions

    Item Description On Board Displays the different areas of system memory and their respective Information sizes. These system resources need to be stored before the computer can enter Hibernation mode, so that the computer can resume successfully. These resources include:· On Board Memory (DRAM or dynamic memory), Video RAM (VRAM or video memory), SMRAM (static memory), and Others.
  • Page 91 Sleep Manager automatically checks the system configuration and displays the recommended size. The drive where the space will be created is defined by the system and will be the first available logical drive which has the requested contiguous free disk space on it. The recommended size is the minimum size needed to save the current system status.

  • Page 92: Remove

    very small, so the compression software needs to be run again to enlarge the size of the host (uncompressed) drive for Sleep Manager. Remove If you want to use or take back the reserved space, click on the Remove button. This will disable the Hibernation feature.

  • Page 93: Notebook Manager

    Notebook Manager The computer has a built-in system setup program called Notebook Manager. The Windows-based Notebook Manager allows you to set passwords, the startup sequence of the drives and power management settings. It also shows current hardware configurations. Note: Certain hotkey functions are disabled when you access Notebook Manager because those functions are also found in the Notebook Manager.

  • Page 94: Information Viewer

    Information viewer Information Viewer summarizes and lists information about the specifications and settings of the different components of your computer. Note: Items in this table may differ slightly from those on the screen. Item Description Brand, type and clock speed of the CPU (Central Processing Unit) Total Memory Total amount of main memory (in megabytes) Video RAM...

  • Page 95: Post

    Item Description External Cache Detects presence and total amount of external cache memory (in kilobytes) TouchPad Detects the presence and setting of the internal pointing device Pointing Device Type(s) of the pointing device(s) detected, internal and external POST POST defines how the computer behaves during the power-on self-test routines. This screen includes the following settings: •...

  • Page 96: Boot Sequence

    Boot Sequence Boot Sequence defines the boot sequence to follow when your computer boots up. This screen allows you to use Drag and Drop to Change the Order to set the boot sequence of your computer. Options include: • Floppy Drive. The computer searches for a bootable diskette in the floppy drive.

  • Page 97: Password

    Password Password is used to set, modify or delete the password(s) for your computer. There are two passwords used in the system: • Power-On Password. The Power-On Password prevents unauthorized access to the computer during system startup and at resume from Standby/ Hibernation modes or an elapsed system resume timer.

  • Page 98: Setting The Setup Password

    Click in the New Password textbox and type in up to seven alphanumeric characters (A-Z, a-z, 0-9) which you want to be your Power-On Password. Click in the Confirm Password textbox and retype the password. Click on OK to accept the setting. Note: To change a password, follow the same steps used to set a password.

  • Page 99: Power Management

    Power Management Power Management is used to set various settings related to power management. Click on the “Advanced” button to access the advanced Power Management Properties options. The Advanced options in Power Management Properties enable you to assign a function to the Lid switch, power button, and sleep hotkey (Fn+F4). The options available for the Lid switch are: No Action, Standby, Hibernate and Shutdown, while the options available for the hotkey and power button are: Standby, Hibernate and Shutdown.

  • Page 100: Display Device

    Display Device Display Device is used to control various settings related to the display device(s), such as the display brightness/contrast levels. The items in this screen include: • Boot Display Device. Sets the default display device on boot-up. • Switching display device. Sets the current display device. Note: Make sure an external monitor is connected before External monitor is selected.

  • Page 101: Bios Utility

    BIOS Utility The BIOS Utility is a hardware configuration program built into your computer’s BIOS (basic input/ouput system). Your computer is already properly configured and optimized, and you do not need to run this utility. However, if you encounter configuration problems, you may need to run it.

  • Page 102: System Information

    Note: Navigation keys for a particular menu are shown on the bottom of the screen. System Information The System Information screen displays a summary of your computer hardware information. The table below describes the parameters in this screen. Parameter Description Describes the type of CPU installed in the system.

  • Page 103: Basic System Configuration

    Parameter Description Asset Tag Number Shows the asset tag number. Product Name Shows the official name of the product. Manufacturer Shows the name of the manufacturer. Name UUID Shows the universally unique identifier number. Basic System Configuration The Basic System Configuration screen contains parameters involving basic computer settings like date and time.

  • Page 104: Startup Configuration

    Startup Configuration The Startup Configuration screen contains parameters that are related to computer startup. The table below describes the parameters in this screen. Settings in boldface are the default and suggested parameter settings. Parameter Description Boot Display Sets the display on boot-up. When set to Auto, the computer automatically determines the display device.

  • Page 105: Onboard Device Configuration

    Parameter Description Boot Drive Allows you to set the sequence wherein the computer will boot 1st, Sequence 2nd, and so on. Below are possible boot devices. Boot from Enables boot-up from the CD-ROM drive, if selected as the first CD-ROM option.
  • Page 106 The table below describes the parameters in this screen. Settings in boldface are the default and suggested parameter settings. Parameter Description Serial Port Enables or disables the serial port. Options: Enabled or Disabled Base Address Sets the I/O address of the serial port. Options: 3F8h, 2F8h, 3E8h or 2E8h Sets the interrupt request of the serial port.

  • Page 107: System Security

    System Security The System Security screen contains parameters that help safeguard and protect your computer from unauthorized use. The table below describes the parameters in this screen. Settings in boldface are the default and suggested parameter settings. Parameter Description Setup Password When set, this password protects the BIOS Utility from unauthorized entry.

  • Page 108: Changing A Password

    Use the and keys to highlight a password parameter (Setup, Power-on, or Hard Disk) and press the Enter key. The password box appears: Type a password. The password may consist of up to eight alphanumeric characters (A-Z, a-z, 0-9). Important: Be very careful when typing your password because the characters do not appear on the screen.

  • Page 109: Password Icons

    Password icons Below are the password icons and their descriptions: Parameters Power-on Password icon Hard Disk Password icon Password character icon Wrong password icon Successful password entry icon Password failure icon Description When set to present, prompts the user to input the correct password for the system to continue.

  • Page 110: Load Default Settings

    5 Software Load Default Settings When you select this menu item, the following dialog box displays: To load factory-default settings for all the parameters, select Yes and press Enter. Otherwise, select No and press Enter.

  • Page 111: Troubleshooting

    6 Troubleshooting...
  • Page 112 This chapter instructs you on how to deal with common system problems. Read it before calling a technician if a problem occurs. Solutions to more serious problems require opening up the computer. Do not attempt to open the computer by yourself. Contact your dealer or an authorized service center for assistance.

  • Page 113: Frequently-Asked Questions

    Frequently-asked questions This is a list of possible situations that may arise during the use of your computer, and it gives easy answers and solutions to these questions. I slid the power switch and opened the display, but the computer does not start or boot-up.
  • Page 114 Image is not full-screen. Make sure the resolution is set to 800x600. Right-click on your Windows desktop and select Properties to bring up the Display Properties dialog box. Then click on the Settings tab to make sure the resolution is set to the appropriate resolution. Resolutions lower than the specified resolution are not full-screen on the computer or on an external monitor.
  • Page 115 How do I eject the CD-ROM tray with the computer turned off? There is a mechanical eject button on the CD-ROM drive. Simply insert the tip of a pen or paperclip and push to eject the CD-ROM tray. The keyboard does not respond. Try attaching an external keyboard to the PS/2 connector on the computer’s rear.
  • Page 116 Configuration screen and verify that the parallel port is enabled. see “Onboard Device Configuration” on page 83 for details. I want to set up my location to use the internal modem. To properly use your communications software (e.g., HyperTerminal), you need to set up your location: Open the Windows Control Panel and double-click on the Modems icon.

  • Page 117: Error Messages

    Error messages If you receive an error message, note the message and take the corrective action. The following table lists the error messages in alphabetical order together with the recommended course of action. Error Messages CMOS Battery Bad CMOS Checksum Error Disk Boot Failure Diskette Drive Controller Error or No Controller...
  • Page 118 Error Messages Missing operating system Non-system disk or disk error. Replace and strike any key when ready Pointing Device Error Pointing Device Interface Error Protected Mode Test Fail RAM BIOS Bad RAM Parity Error Real-Time Clock Error Video RAM BIOS Bad If you still encounter problems after going through the corrective measures, please contact your dealer or an authorized service center for assistance.

  • Page 119: Troubleshooting Tips

    Troubleshooting tips The TravelMate 505 series notebook computer incorporates an advanced design that delivers onscreen error message reports to help you solve problems. In addition, this series of notebook computers ship with PC-Doctor, a powerful diagnostic tool, that helps you determine hardware configuration and clarify hardware or software problems.

  • Page 120: Online Services

    If you are able to run the PC-Doctor diagnostic tests, locate the log file by selecting Windows, Test Log in the PC-Doctor menu bar. If you haven’t registered your notebook computer, you will be required to register during your first call to Acer. You are required to provide the following information: Name:_________________________________________...
  • Page 122 6 Troubleshooting...

  • Page 123: A Specifications

    A Specifications...
  • Page 124 This appendix lists the general specifications of your computer.

  • Page 125: Data Storage

    Microprocessor • Intel Celeron™ processor with 128 KB level 2 cache Memory • 32 MB main memory expandable to 160 MB or 64 MB expandable up to 192 • Single 144-pin soDIMM socket SDRAM (Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory) • 256 KB Flash ROM BIOS Data storage •...

  • Page 126: Weight And Dimensions

    I/O ports • one type II/I or one type III CardBus socket • One RJ-11 phone jack • One DC-in jack (AC adapter) • One RS-232 serial port (UART16550-compatible) • One parallel port (ECP/EPP compliant) • One external monitor port (DDC 2.0-compliant) •...
  • Page 127 AC adapter • 60-Watt • Auto sensing 100~240Vac, 50~60Hz Options • 32-/64-/128-MB 64-/128-bit SDRAM memory upgrade module • PS/2 Y-cable • Additional AC adapter and battery pack • Numeric keypad • File transfer cable • In-Air/Auto Adapter...
  • Page 128 A Specifications...

  • Page 129: Index

    Index AC adapter caring for xx connecting xvi audio 25 connecting externally 48 controlling volume 25 troubleshooting 92 battery installing xvi battery pack battery-low warning 34 caring for xx characteristics 31 charging 32 charging indicator 7 charging modes 32 checking charge level 33 installing 32 low conditions 34 optimizing 33...
  • Page 130 setting in Notebook Manager 78 CPU 80 date setting in BIOS Utility 82 diskette ejecting 18 diskette drive 18 display 5 auto-dim feature 37 hotkeys 13 opening and closing 5 performance 5 power management 5, 37 setting boot device in BIOS Utility setting boot device in Notebook Man- ager 78 setting in Notebook Manager 78...
  • Page 131 on indicator 8 numeric keypad embedded 10 options cables 51 hard disk upgrade 54 memory upgrade 53 PC cards 49 spare AC adapter 51 spare battery 51 palm rest 15 parallel port setting in BIOS Utility 84 password 26 changing in BIOS Utility 87 removing in BIOS Utility 87 setting in BIOS Utility 86 setting in Notebook Manager...
  • Page 132 Universal Serial Bus 21 connecting 50 USB. See Universal Serial Bus utility BIOS Setup 79– 88 Notebook Manager 71– 78 Sleep Manager 66 volume adjusting 25 warranty International Traveler’s xviii Windows keys 11 Warranty...

This manual is also suitable for:

Travelmate 505 series

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