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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, Inc. (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.
NEC is a registered trademark of NEC Corporation; Versa is a U.S. registered trademark of NEC Technologies, Inc.; all are used under license by NEC Computer Systems Division (NECCSD), Packard Bell NEC, Inc. All other product, brand, or trade names used in this publication are the trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective trademark owners.
First Printing -- January 1997 Copyright 1997 NEC Computer Systems Division, Packard Bell NEC, Inc. 1414 Massachusetts Avenue Boxborough, MA 01719 All Rights Reserved
xi
Preface
This service and reference manual contains the technical information necessary to set up and maintain the following NEC Versa® 6000 Series models:
T NEC Versa 6050MH T NEC Versa 6050MX.
The guide also provides hardware and interface information for users who need an overview of the system design. The manual is written for NEC-trained customer engineers, system analysts, service center personnel, and dealers. The manual is organized as follows: Section 1 Technical Information, provides an overview of the hardware and interface components. System specifications are listed including computer dimensions, weight, environment, safety compliance, power consumption, and system memory specifications. Section 2 Setup and Operation, takes the authorized service technician or dealer from unpacking to setup and operation. The section includes a description of operating controls, setting parameters and accessing the NECCSD bulletin board system (BBS). Section 3 Troubleshooting, lists troubleshooting procedures as well as helpful servicing hints. Section 4 Field Service Guidelines, provides disassembly and assembly procedures, and an exploded-view diagram of the NEC Versa system with part numbers. Appendix A Connector Locations and Pin Assignments, provides a list of the main board internal connector pin assignments and a list of external pin assignments. Appendix B Video Modes, lists NEC Versa supported video modes. An Index is included for convenience.
xiii
Abbreviations
ampere alternating current advanced technology (IBM PC) BBS Bulletin Board System BCD binary-coded decimal BCU BIOS Customized Utility BIOS basic input/output system bit binary digit bpi bits per inch bps bits per second BUD BIOS Upgrade Diskette C centigrade Cache high-speed buffer storage CAM constantly addressable memory CAS column address strobe CD-ROM compact disk ROM CGA Color Graphics Adapter CGB Color Graphics Board CH channel clk clock cm centimeter CMOS complementary metal oxide semiconductor COM communication CONT contrast CPGA ceramic pin grid array CPU central processing unit CRT cathode-ray tube DAC digital-to-analog converter DACK DMA acknowledge DC direct current DIP dual in-line package DLAB Divisor Latch Address bit DMA direct memory access DMAC DMA controller A AC AT DOS DRAM DTE ECC ECP EDS EGA EMS EPP EPROM EVGA F FAX FCC FG FM Fn FRU GB GND HDD HEX HGA Hz IC ID IDE IDTR IMR in. INTA disk operating system dynamic RAM data terminal equipment error checking and correction extended capabilities port error detecting system Enhanced Graphics Adapter Expanded Memory Specification enhanced parallel port erasable and programmable ROM Enhanced Video Graphics Array Fahrenheit facsimile transmission Federal Communications Commission frame ground frequency modulation Function field-replaceable unit gigabyte ground hard disk drive hexadecimal Hercules Graphics Adapter hertz integrated circuit identification intelligent device electronics interrupt descriptor table register Interrupt Mask register inch interrupt acknowledge
xiv
Abbreviations
IPB IR IRR ISA ISR I/O IPC ips IRQ K k KB kg kHz kV lb LDTR LED LSB LSI M mA max MB MDA MFM Mhz mm ms MSB NASC NC NDP NMI ns NSRC
illustrated parts breakdown infrared Interrupt Request register Industry Standard Architecture In Service register input/output integrated peripheral controller inches per second interrupt request kilo (1024) kilo (1000) kilobyte kilogram kilohertz kilovolt pound local descriptor table register light-emitting diode least-significant bit large-scale integration mega milliamps maximum megabyte Monochrome Display Adapter modified frequency modulation megahertz millimeter millisecond most-significant bit National Authorized Service Center not connected numeric data processor Non-maskable Interrupt nanosecond National Service Response Center
programmable array logic personal computer printed circuit board peripheral component interconnect PFP plastic flat package PIO parallel input/output pixel picture element PJQFP plastic J-lead quad flat pack PLCC plastic lead chip carrier PLL phase lock loop p-p peak-to-peak PPI programmable peripheral interface PROM programmable ROM QFP quad flat pack RAM random-access memory RAMDAC RAM digital-to-analog RAS row address strobe RGB red green blue RGBI red green blue intensity ROM read-only memory rpm revolutions per minute R read RTC real-time clock R/W read/write S slave SCSI Small Computer System Interface SDLC Synchronous Data Link Control SG signal ground SIMM single inline memory module SIR serial infrared SOIC small outline integrated circuit SQFP silver quad flat package SVGA Super Video Graphics Array SW switch
PAL PC PCB PCI
Abbreviations
xv
TAC TCP TQFP TSC TTL tpi UART V Vdc VESA VFO VGA VLSI VRAM W µf µPD µs
Technical Assistance Center Thin chip package Thin-quad flat package Technical Support Center transistor/transistor logic tracks per inch universal asynchronous receiver/transmitter volt volts, direct current video electronics standards association variable frequency oscillator Video Graphics Array very large-scale integration virtual RAM watt microfarad microprocessor microsecond ohm
(For United States Use Only)
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION RADIO FREQUENCY INTERFERENCE STATEMENT
!
WARNING
Changes or modifications to this unit not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
NOTE
This is a Class B Digital Device. This equipment 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 equipment 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.
However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures.
T T T
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver. Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from the one to which the receiver is connected.
To meet FCC standards, shielded cables and power cords are required to connect this device to a personal computer or other Class B certified device.
Canadian Department of Communications Compliance Statement This equipment does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions from digital apparatus set out in the Radio interference Regulations of the Canadian Department of Communications. Avis de conformité aux normes du ministère des Communications du Canada Cet appareil respecte les limites de bruits radioélectriques applicables aux appareils numériques de Classe B prescrites dans le Règlement sur le brouillage radioélectrique édicté par le ministère des Communications du Canada. European Community Directive Conformance Statement This product is in conformity with the protection requirements of EC Council Directive 89/336/EEC on the approximation of laws of the Member States relating to electro-magnetic compatibility. This product satisfied the Class B limits of EN 55022. NEC Computer Systems Division, Packard Bell NEC, Inc. 1414 Massachusetts Avenue Boxborough, Massachusetts 01719 1-800-632-4525
iii
Contents
Preface......................................................................................................................... xi Abbreviations............................................................................................................... xiii
Section 1 Technical Information
Hardware Overview--Front.........................................................................................1-2 Liquid Crystal Display (LCD)................................................................................1-2 Power Button .......................................................................................................1-4 Status Bar and Power Indicator.............................................................................1-4 Status Icons ...................................................................................................1-5 Keyboard ..............................................................................................................1-6 NEC VersaGlide ...................................................................................................1-6 Diskette Drive and the NEC VersaBay II ..............................................................1-7 Front Infrared (IR) Assembly ................................................................................1-8 Hardware Overview--Right Side .................................................................................1-8 Hardware Overview--Left Side ...................................................................................1-9 PC Card Slots .......................................................................................................1-10 Battery Compartment............................................................................................1-10 Hardware Overview--Rear Side ..................................................................................1-10 Keyboard/Mouse Port...........................................................................................1-10 Parallel Port (LPT1)..............................................................................................1-11 Rear Infrared Port .................................................................................................1-11 Expansion Port .....................................................................................................1-11 Monitor (Video) Port............................................................................................1-11 Serial Port (COM 1) .............................................................................................1-12 Hardware Overview--Internal Components .................................................................1-12 Battery Pack .........................................................................................................1-12 Hard Disk Drive....................................................................................................1-12 Diskette Drive.......................................................................................................1-13 10x CD-ROM Reader ...........................................................................................1-13 CPU Board ...........................................................................................................1-14 Sound Board.........................................................................................................1-14 I/O Board .............................................................................................................1-15 Modem Board.......................................................................................................1-16 CMOS Battery......................................................................................................1-16 Bridge Battery ......................................................................................................1-16
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Contents
System Memory...........................................................................................................1-16 Memory Map ........................................................................................................1-17 System Video...............................................................................................................1-18 Parallel Interface ..........................................................................................................1-18 Serial Interface.............................................................................................................1-19 NEC Versa Chip Set ....................................................................................................1-19 Intel Pentium P55CLM Microprocessor ................................................................1-19 M-Triton System Controller..................................................................................1-19 256K X Flash ROM ..............................................................................................1-20 ROM BIOS....................................................................................................1-20 VGA Controller ....................................................................................................1-21 Parallel Interface ...................................................................................................1-21 Keyboard Controller .............................................................................................1-21 PC CardBus Controller .........................................................................................1-22 Sound Integrated Circuit .......................................................................................1-22 Interrupt Controllers .............................................................................................1-23 Power Management Overview .....................................................................................1-24 System Power Management ..................................................................................1-25 Local Power Management.....................................................................................1-26 Plug and Play ...............................................................................................................1-26 Specifications...............................................................................................................1-27
Section 2 Setup and Operation
Unpacking the System..................................................................................................2-1 Hardware Setup ...........................................................................................................2-1 Cable Connections ................................................................................................2-4 Power Sources.............................................................................................................2-5 Using the AC Adapter...........................................................................................2-5 Using the Main Battery Pack.................................................................................2-6 Checking Battery Power Levels......................................................................2-6 What to Do When Battery Power Gets Low...................................................2-6 Returning the Battery to Full Operation..........................................................2-7 When to Change the Battery ..........................................................................2-7 Battery Handling............................................................................................2-7 Replacing the Battery Pack ............................................................................2-8 Battery Precautions........................................................................................2-11 Recharging Battery Precautions......................................................................2-11
Contents
v
NEC VersaBay II Battery and Adapter Kit............................................................2-12 Extending Battery Life ..........................................................................................2-12 Using the DC Car Adapter ....................................................................................2-12 Operating Controls ......................................................................................................2-13 Status Bar .............................................................................................................2-14 Status Icons ...................................................................................................2-14 Function Keys (Fn Keys).......................................................................................2-15 Smart Power Switch .............................................................................................2-15 Dip Switch............................................................................................................2-16 Updating the System BIOS ............................................................................2-16 Power-On Self-Test (POST) ........................................................................................2-18 POST Errors.........................................................................................................2-19 Setup Utility ................................................................................................................2-21 Accessing Setup....................................................................................................2-21 With an Error at POST ..................................................................................2-21 With No Errors at POST................................................................................2-21 Setup Utility Main Menu.......................................................................................2-22 How to Use Setup..........................................................................................2-23 Looking at Screens ........................................................................................2-23 Using Keys.....................................................................................................2-24 Checking/Setting System Parameters..............................................................2-24 Setup Menus..................................................................................................2-27 Standard CMOS Setup...............................................................................2-27 Advanced CMOS Setup .............................................................................2-28 Power Management Setup..........................................................................2-28 Peripherals Setup .......................................................................................2-30 Change User Password...............................................................................2-30 Change Supervisor Password .....................................................................2-30 Auto Configuration with Defaults...............................................................2-31 Save Settings and Exit................................................................................2-31 Exit Without Saving....................................................................................2-31 Using Setup to Set Power Management ................................................................2-31 Using the Save to File (STF) Feature..............................................................2-31 STF Benefits ..................................................................................................2-32 Automatic Power-Saving Features ...............................................................................2-32
vi
Contents
Section 3
Troubleshooting and Repair
Quick Troubleshooting ................................................................................................3-1 Helpful Questions ........................................................................................................3-4 Informational Messages ...............................................................................................3-4
Section 4 Field Service Guidelines
Preventive Maintenance ...............................................................................................4-1 Cleaning the Notebook's Exterior .........................................................................4-1 Cleaning the Notebook's Interior ..........................................................................4-2 Protecting the Disk Drives ....................................................................................4-2 Handling the Battery Packs ...................................................................................4-3 Maintaining the LCD Quality ................................................................................4-3 Required Tools and Equipment ....................................................................................4-3 Disassembly and Reassembly........................................................................................4-4 Hard Disk Drive....................................................................................................4-5 Diskette Drive.......................................................................................................4-7 Main Battery Pack (Li-Ion Type) ..........................................................................4-8 LCD and Top Cover .............................................................................................4-10 Power Button, Rear IR Assembly, Keyboard.........................................................4-12 LCD Status Bar, VersaGlide Assembly, 33.6 Kbps Modem Board, Metal Keyboard Supports..................................................................................4-14 Bridge Battery, CMOS Battery, Buzzer ................................................................4-15 Microphone Assembly, CPU Board.......................................................................4-17 Heat Shield, Sound Board ....................................................................................4-18 I/O Board .............................................................................................................4-19 Illustrated Parts Breakdown .........................................................................................4-20 Service Information......................................................................................................4-24 Technical Support........................................................................................................4-24 Product Information.....................................................................................................4-25 Ordering Information from FastFacts ..........................................................................4-25
Appendix A Connector Locations and Pin Assignments
Appendix B Video Modes
Contents
vii
List of Figures
1-1 1-2 1-3 1-4 1-5 1-6 1-7 1-8 1-9 1-10 1-11 1-12 1-13 1-14 2-1 2-2 2-3 2-4 2-5 2-6 2-7 2-8 2-9 2-10 2-11 2-12 2-13 2-14 4-1 4-2 4-3 4-4 4-5 4-6
NEC Versa 6050MH/6050MX Notebook ...................................................... 1-1 LCD Panel ..................................................................................................... 1-3 Power Button Location .................................................................................. 1-4 System Status Bar .......................................................................................... 1-5 Keyboard Layout ........................................................................................... 1-6 VersaGlide Location ...................................................................................... 1-7 NEC VersaBay II Location ............................................................................ 1-7 Right Side Features ........................................................................................ 1-8 Left Side Features .......................................................................................... 1-9 Rear Features................................................................................................. 1-10 Locating the Rear IR Port .............................................................................. 1-11 CPU Board Layout ........................................................................................ 1-14 Sound Board Layout ...................................................................................... 1-15 I/O Board Layout........................................................................................... 1-15 Connecting the AC Adapter ........................................................................... 2-2 Powering on the System................................................................................. 2-3 Power and I/O Connector Locations .............................................................. 2-4 NEC Versa AC Adapter................................................................................. 2-5 Removing the Cover ...................................................................................... 2-9 Removing the Battery .................................................................................... 2-9 Inserting the Battery Pack .............................................................................. 2-10 Replacing the Cover....................................................................................... 2-10 Connecting the Car DC Adapter..................................................................... 2-12 Keyboard Panel LEDs and Controls ............................................................... 2-13 Status Bar Location ....................................................................................... 2-14 Locating the Switch Settings .......................................................................... 2-17 Setup Main Menu........................................................................................... 2-22 Advanced CMOS Setup Menu ....................................................................... 2-23 Removing the Drive Bay Cover...................................................................... Removing the Hard Disk Drive ...................................................................... VersaBay II Release Latches .......................................................................... Removing the Standard Diskette Drive........................................................... Removing the Battery Compartment Cover .................................................... Removing the Battery .................................................................................... 4-5 4-6 4-7 4-8 4-9 4-9
viii
Contents
4-7 4-8 4-9 4-10 4-11 4-12 4-13 4-14 4-15 4-16
Removing the Bottom Base Screws................................................................ 4-10 Disconnecting the LCD Connectors ............................................................... 4-11 Removing the Power Button, Rear IR Assembly, Keyboard............................ 4-12 Disconnecting the Keyboard Cables................................................................ 4-13 LCD Status Bar, VersaGlide Assembly, Modem Board, Metal Keyboard Supports .............................................................................. 4-14 Removing Bridge Battery, CMOS Battery, and Buzzer .................................. 4-16 Removing the CPU Board.............................................................................. 4-17 Heat Shield, Sound Board .............................................................................. 4-18 Removing the I/O Board ................................................................................ 4-19 NEC Versa Models 6050MH and 6050MX Illustrated Parts Breakdown............................................................................................ 4-21 CPU Board Layout ........................................................................................ A-1 I/O Board Layout........................................................................................... A-2
A-1 A-2
List of Tables
1-1 1-2 1-3 1-4 1-5 1-6 1-7 2-1 2-2 2-3 2-4 2-5 2-6 2-7 3-1 3-2
Model Configurations .................................................................................... 1-2 Memory Map ................................................................................................. 1-17 NEC Versa Series Chip Types and Technologies............................................ 1-18 Interrupt Controllers ...................................................................................... 1-21 Automatic Power-Saving Features ................................................................. 1-22 Maximum Performance Default Settings......................................................... 1-24 Specifications................................................................................................. 1-25 I/O Connector Descriptions............................................................................ 2-3 Control and Switch Functions ........................................................................ 2-12 FnKey Operations .......................................................................................... 2-14 POST Error Messages.................................................................................... 2-18 Setup Key Functions ...................................................................................... 2-22 Setup Parameters ........................................................................................... 2-23 Automatic Power-Saving Features ................................................................. 2-30 Quick Troubleshooting................................................................................... 3-1 BIOS Informational Messages........................................................................ 3-4
Contents
ix
4-1 4-2 4-3 A-1 A-2 A-3 A-4 A-5 A-6 A-7 A-8 B-1 B-2 B-3 B-4 B-5
NEC Versa 6000 Series Disassembly Sequence (Models 6050MH and 6050MX) .................................................................... 4-4 NEC Versa 6000 Series Field-Replaceable Parts (Models 6050MH and 6050MX) .................................................................... 4-22 NEC Service and Information Telephone Numbers......................................... 4-24 CPU Board Connectors.................................................................................. I/O Board Connectors .................................................................................... Keyboard/Mouse Connectors ......................................................................... Serial Port Connector Pin Assignments .......................................................... CRT Connector Pin Assignments ................................................................... Parallel Printer Pin Assignments ..................................................................... Power Connector ........................................................................................... Hard Disk Drive Connector............................................................................ LCD Display Mode Setting (800x600) TFT Color LCD & Simultaneous CRT Display) ....................................................................... CRT Display Mode (CRT Only)..................................................................... Panning Video Mode (800x600) TFT Color LCD and Simultaneous CRT Display) ........................................................................... LCD Display XGA Mode Setting (1024x768 TFT Color LCD & Simultaneous CRT Display)............................................................... Standard XGA Video Mode Frequency.......................................................... A-2 A-2 A-3 A-4 A-4 A-5 A-5 A-6
B-1 B-3 B-4 B-4 B-5
Section 1
Technical Information
The NEC Versa 6000 Series notebook computers are lightweight, compact, and fully IBM compatible. The latest additions to the NEC Versa 6000 family include the following models:
T NEC Versa 6050MH T NEC Versa 6050MX.
NOTE: This service manual covers the NEC Versa 6050MH and 6050MX models only. All figures in this manual reflect these models.
Figure 1-1
NEC Versa 6050MH/6050MX Notebook
This section of the manual provides system configuration information, including an overview of hardware and interface components. See the following table for a system specific breakdown of each model's hardware.
1-2
Technical Information
Table 1-1
Feature CPU On-Board DRAM Video Memory Hard Disk Drive CD-ROM Reader Color LCD
Model Configurations
NEC Versa 6050MX Pentium P55CLM,150 MHz 16 MB 2 MB 2.1 GB 10x CD ROM Reader 12.1" Extended Graphics Array (XGA),TFT Color Display
NEC Versa 6050MH Pentium P55CLM,150 MHz 16 MB 2 MB 1.44 GB 10x CD ROM Reader 12.1" Super VGA (SVGA), Thin Film Transistor (TFT), Color Display
HARDWARE OVERVIEW--FRONT
Take a moment to become familiar with the location and function of controls located on the front of the system.
Liquid Crystal Display (LCD)
The LCD operates with the Chips & Technologies 65550A1 VGA controller. The controller supports Super VGA, uses a 64 bit accelerator with a Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) interface. The LCD also supports VESA timing. The NEC Versa 6050MH LCD features the following:
T 12.1-inch active matrix Thin Film Transistor (TFT), Cold Cathode Fluorescent
Tube (CCFT), Super VGA (SVGA) backlit color LCD
T 0.3 mm dot pitch T 18-bit digital interface T 800 x 600 resolution T 256,000 colors.
Technical Information
1-3
The NEC Versa 6050MX LCD features the following:
T 12.1-inch Extended Graphics Array (XGA) TFT high resolution active matrix
XGA color LCD
T 0.24 mm dot pitch T 18-bit digital interface T 1024 x 768 resolution T 256,000 colors.
Additional LCD panel features include built-in stereo speakers and a slide switch that adjusts screen brightness.
Figure 1-2
LCD Panel
Another video feature includes a CRT port on the system's rear panel that allows the user to connect an optional monochrome or color external display to the system. The computer can support the LCD and external display simultaneously. Power-saving features for controlling the LCD's backlighting include the ROM-based hot key combination Fn F5, and Auto Setup power management settings. See Section 2, Setup and Operation, for information on using these settings. In addition, the automatic LCD status sense feature conserves the backlight. When the LCD is closed the backlight shuts off, saving battery power.
1-4
Technical Information
Power Button
Slide the power button to the right to power on and power off the computer. The power button is a "smart" switch, meaning that it recognizes when the system is in Suspend mode. If in Suspend mode, you cannot power off until you press the suspend button again to bring the system out of Suspend mode.
Figure 1-3
Power Button Location
Status Bar and Power Indicator
The status bar is situated right below the LCD. It provides an easy way to detect system status. Different graphic icons appear on the LCD bar indicating that a device is accessed, an operation performed, or a power mode activated. The graphic icons displayed on the LCD bar resemble either their physical characteristics or their primary function. See the LCD Status Bar figure shown next, and the descriptions that follow for the specific meaning of each icon. The power indicator is located just above, (and to the right) of the status bar. The power indicator lights green when the computer's power is on.
Technical Information
1-5
Figure 1-4
System Status Bar
Status Icons
The following list defines the status icons displayed in the system status bar.
T Suspend -- appears when the system is in Suspend mode. Suspend mode conserves system power by shutting down devices in the system while retaining data and system status.
T Power Management -- shows the current power management mode in use, including Off, Custom, High Performance or Longest Life.
T Diskette -- appears when the NEC Versa writes data to or retrieves data from a
diskette.
T Hard Disk -- shows when the NEC Versa writes data to or retrieves data from
the hard disk.
T Caps Lock -- appears when Caps Lock is in effect. T Scroll Lock -- shows that Scroll Lock is in effect. T Num Lock -- appears when Num Lock is in effect. Num Lock lets the user enter
numbers for calculations via the numeric keypad.
T Battery Status -- displays the percentage of battery power available.
Battery 1 appears when you have the main battery installed in the battery bay. Battery 2 appears when you have an optional battery installed in the VersaBay II.
1-6
Technical Information
Keyboard
The built-in, 83-key keyboard (U.S.) or 79-key keyboard (UK and Germany) uses the standard QWERTY format. The keyboard provides 12 function keys and 7 cursor control keys, with an Fn key for ROM-based key functions. The numeric keypad is embedded in the standard key layout.
Figure 1-5
Keyboard Layout
NEC VersaGlide
The NEC VersaGlide is a built-in mechanism that functions as the system's mouse. It controls the on-screen pointer (cursor). To use the VersaGlide, move your finger across the NEC VersaGlide pad, and the cursor follows. The buttons below the NEC VersaGlide allow the user to select or deselect menu items. Tap and double-tap are supported on the VersaGlide pad. The PS/2 Microsoft mouse is the system's default pointing device until the user selects the NEC Setup icon. When the user selects the NEC Setup icon, the NEC VersaGlide is installed as the system's pointing device. If an external mouse is installed, then the NEC VersaGlide is deactivated. A serial mouse is not supported.
Technical Information
1-7
Figure 1-6
VersaGlide Location
Diskette Drive and the NEC VersaBay II
A standard 1.44-MB diskette drive comes installed in the VersaBay II slot on the front of the computer. The VersaBay II expansion slot lets the user replace the standard diskette drive with the 10x CD-ROM reader that also ships with the system. In addition to the CDROM reader, the VersaBay II accepts NEC options including a second battery pack, or an additional hard disk.
Figure 1-7
NEC VersaBay II Location
1-8
Technical Information
Infrared (IR) Front Assembly
The front IR assembly consists of a small board with two infrared LEDs, soldered to the system's CPU board. The board allows the NEC Versa computer to communicate with other infrared-ready computers. For example, the infrared port allows the user to transfer files between the NEC Versa and an IR-equipped desktop, or print to an IR-equipped printer without using cables. The rear IR assembly is discussed later in this section. The computer ships with the rear IR assembly selected in Setup. If you need to use the front IR assembly, go into Setup to change the default setting to the front IR assembly, or use the IR Tool in Windows. When the computer is docked to the optional NEC Versa Docking Station 6000, the rear IR assembly is automatically disabled, and the front enabled. NOTE: Do not use the IR port directly under flourescent incandescent light.
HARDWARE OVERVIEW--RIGHT SIDE
Review the following section for a description of the hardware on the right side of the NEC Versa.
Figure 1-8
Right Side Features
T Internal Modem -- NEC includes a 33.6 Kbps fax/voice/data modem with speakerphone and answering machine support. Modem specifications are provided in the Specifications table at the end of this section, as well as in the online documentation.
Technical Information
1-9
T Hard Disk Drive Bay Cover Release Latch -- The hard disk drive bay contains
the removable hard disk drive. The system ships with a 1.44-gigabyte (GB), or 2.1-GB hard disk drive. To access the hard disk drive, simply turn the system over and lift up the hard disk drive bay cover release latch while pushing the cover away from the system.
T Kensington Lock -- Gives the user the option to add an optional Kensington
Lock.
T Volume Control -- Controls the speaker or headphone volume. T Headphones -- Connects external headphones or speakers to the NEC Versa.
Plugging in headphones disables the built-in system speakers.
T Line-Out -- Lets the NEC Versa act as an input source for another audio system.
Connect this port to a Line-In port on another audio system to play or record.
T Line-In -- Use a cable to connect to the Line-Out port on the other audio system
to record or play.
T Microphone (MIC) -- Connects an external microphone for monophonic recording or amplification through the unit. Plugging in an external microphone disables the built-in microphone.
T AC/DC Power Port -- Use the power jack to attach the NEC Versa to a DC
power source, such as the AC adapter or the optional DC car adapter.
HARDWARE OVERVIEW--LEFT SIDE
Review the following section for a description of the hardware on the left side of the NEC Versa.
Figure 1-9
Left Side Features
1-10
Technical Information
PC Card Slots
The PC card slot compartment houses two Type II devices, or one Type III device. For Type III cards, insert the PC card into the lower slot. Insert the card with the pin sockets facing towards the drive and the label facing up. To remove the PC card, push on the eject button to release the pin connections and slowly pull out the card. The NEC Versa also comes with DOS/Windows PC card drivers for supporting various PC cards like modem and network cards.
Battery Compartment
The battery compartment houses the rechargeable Lithium Ion (Li-Ion) battery pack. The battery pack instantly charges whenever you connect the AC adapter to the notebook. It is very important to always have the battery installed in the notebook to insure that it is continuously charged. If the battery pack is uninstalled for a long period of time, the battery cells are drained, causing battery pack to deteriorate.
HARDWARE OVERVIEW--REAR SIDE
Review the following section for a description of the hardware on the rear of the NEC Versa.
Figure 1-10
Rear 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. With an optional Y-cable adapter, you can connect both a mouse and a keyboard at the same time. A serial mouse is not supported.
Technical Information
1-11
Parallel Port (LPT1)
The 25-pin printer port provides a parallel interface to which you can connect a parallel printer or pocket network adapter. Use this port to connect a parallel printer or other parallel device. The port is IEEE 1284 compatible. It supports bi-directional (AT) mode, Enhanced Capabilities Port (ECP) mode, Enhanced Parallel Port (EPP) mode, (365SLcompatible), nibble mode, and byte mode (PS/2). The parallel port's default is Extended Capabilities Port (ECP) mode. Use Setup to change the default to one of the following.
T Normal T bi-directional T EPP (v1.9) T EPP (v1.7).
Rear Infrared Port
This port lets you transfer files between your NEC Versa and an IR-equipped desktop or notebook computer. You can also print to an IR-equipped printer without using cables. The computer ships with the rear IR assembly selected in Setup. If you need to use the front IR assembly, go into Setup to change the default setting to the front IR assembly. When the NEC Versa is docked to the optional NEC Versa Docking Station 6000, the rear IR assembly is automatically disabled, and the front enabled. Additionally, the IR port can be redirected, for the current session only, using the IR utilities within windows.
Figure 1-11
Locating the Rear IR Port
1-12
Technical Information
Expansion Port
This port provides a connection for NEC Versa options including the NEC PortBar 6000 and NEC Versa Docking Station 6000.
Monitor (Video) Port
Use this 15-pin port to attach an external monitor to your NEC Versa. You can run the LCD display and the external monitor simultaneously or run either alone.
Serial Port (COM 1)
The 9-pin serial port provides a serial interface to which you can connect an RS-232C device such as an external serial printer or modem. A serial mouse is not supported.
HARDWARE OVERVIEW--INTERNAL COMPONENTS
Review the following sections for a description of the system's internal hardware.
Battery Pack
The system uses a rechargeable lithium-ion (Li-Ion) battery as its transient power source. The battery pack installs in the compartment next to the VersaBay II on the bottom of the NEC Versa. The battery stores 14.4 volts with a 2600 mAh capacity. The battery pack powers the NEC Versa for approximately 2 to 4 hours. In addition, the user detects how much battery power is available via the percentage displayed on the status bar. When battery power is getting low, connect the AC adapter to a wall outlet and recharge the battery. It takes 2.5 to 7 hours to recharge the battery.
Hard Disk Drive
A standard 2.5-inch, 1.44 GB or 2.1 GB hard disk drive ships with the system. The 2.1-GB hard disk drive specifications are listed next.
T Track-to-track seek rate -- 3 ms T Average seek time -- 13 ms (read), 14 ms (write) T Revolutions per minute -- 4200 T Data transfer rate -- 16.6 MB/sec T Media data rates -- 38.6 - 69.8 bit/sec
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The 1.44-GB hard disk drive specifications are listed next.
T Track-to-track seek rate -- 4 ms T Average seek time -- 13 ms (read), 14 ms (write) T Revolutions per minute -- 4009 T Data transfer rate -- 16.6 MB/sec T Media data rates -- 39.6 - 61.8 bit/sec
You can increase system hard disk space by installing another hard disk drive in the VersaBay II slot in the front of the computer using the optional hard disk drive adapter kit.
Diskette Drive
The interchangeable 3.5-inch 1.44 MB diskette drive installs in the front of the system in the VersaBay II slot.
10x CD-ROM Reader
A 10x CD-ROM reader ships with the NEC Versa 6050MH and 6050MX models. The interchangeable ten-speed CD-ROM reader features the latest in CD-ROM technology. It installs in the front of the system in the VersaBay II slot. The CD-ROM reader is assigned to the next available drive letter. The CD-ROM reader operates at different speeds depending on whether the CD in use contains data or music. This improves video and sound quality.
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Technical Information
CPU Board
The CPU board is an L-shaped board situated next to the audio ports. In addition to the CPU, this board houses the front IR assembly (see Appendix A for a list of connectors). The NEC Versa 6050MH and 6050MX models ship with Intel's P55CSLM/150 MMX installed on the CPU board. The board uses the industry standard PCI interface, with a 60 MHz bus speed.
Figure 1-12
CPU Board Layout
Sound Board
The sound board (G8XSY) provides the NEC Versa system with its audio capabilities via line-in/line-out jacks, and headphone/microphone jacks. It is situated on top of the I/O board. The sound board integrates the following features:
T Creative Labs Sound Blaster 16 compatible, Plug and Play support, Roland MPU
401.
T CT2505 ViBRA 16C Integrated Circuit T Integrated Music Synthesis, CQMTM and Stereo Digital to Analog Converter
(DAC) FM Synthesizer
T 16 bit Stereo DAC T 5.0 KHz to 44.1 KHz Sampling Rate T 6 Channel Mixer.
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Figure 1-13
Sound Board Layout
I/O Board
The SVGA system I/O board (G8WKPA), or the XGA system I/O board (G8WZGA) contains peripheral subsystems including serial, parallel and video ports, PC card controller and charger. It is located underneath the sound board. Refer to Appendix A for a list of connectors.
Figure 1-14
I/O Board layout
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Modem Board
The 33.6 kilobytes per second (Kbps) data/fax/voice modem board attaches to the front of the CPU board via connector P10. The internal modem transmits data at a rate of 33,600 bits-per-second, (14.4 Kbps for fax use) integrating built-in error control. The modem provides one standard phone connector, and one cellular phone connector for transforming the notebook into a speakerphone. NEC provides two analog phone cables (one is a spare) for convenience. The built-in modem is also cellular-capable. To use the computer's cellular phone connector, the user needs to purchase a cellular phone cable from a computer or electronics store. Supported cellular phones include:
T NEC P100 Series T NEC P700 Series T Motorola MicroTAC T AT&T 3610.
CMOS Battery
The lithium battery (3.0 Volts, 280 mAh capacity) is attached to P13 on the CPU board. It provides battery backup and prevents data loss in the system's complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) RAM. This memory area contains information on the system's configuration like date, time, drives, and memory. The CMOS battery lasts approximately two years.
Bridge Battery
The bridge battery saves the memory contents and system status for up to 5 minutes while in Suspend mode. It is connected to the CPU board via connector P15. The AC adapter maintains voltage in the bridge battery when the system is powered on or off. The bridge battery stores 6 Volts, 60 mAH.
SYSTEM MEMORY
The system board provides 16-MB of standard random access memory (RAM). Optional memory boards with a value of 8-, 16-, 32 or 64-MB can be added to increase system memory up to a maximum of 80-MB (70 ns Fast Page access). In addition, 256-KB of read-only memory (ROM), 1 x 28F020, enables the system BIOS to be flashed. The system provides 2-MB of video RAM (50 ns HyperPage mode, self-refresh).
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The following Cache RAM is provided:
T L1: 16KB (Internal Pentium) T L2: 256 KB write back (External).
Memory Map
The system supports system and video shadowing, both controlled through complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS). The system supports BIOS as a cacheable area with write protection. Table 1-2 lists the system's memory map.
Table 1-2
Memory Space 00000000h-0009FFFFh 000A0000h-000AFFFFh 000B0000h-000B7FFFh 000B8000h-000BFFFFh 000C0000h-000C9FFFh 000CA000h-000CFFFFh 000D0000h-000DFFFFh 000E0000h-000E7FFFh 000E8000h-000EFFFFh 000F0000h-000FFFFFh 00100000h-04FFFFFFh Size 640 KB 64 KB 32 KB 32 KB 40 KB 24 KB 64 KB 32 KB 32 KB 64 KB 79 MB
Memory Map
Function Base Memory Video Buffer (EGA and VGA) Video Buffer (for monochrome modes) Video Buffer (for CGA, EGA color, and VGA color)) Video BIOS (Last 8 KB reserved for Video BIOS shadowing) Upper Memory Block (UMB) Used by Adapter ROMs Upper Memory Block (option cards or UMB) Upper Memory Block (UMB only) System BIOS ROM (includes the BIOS Setup utility, and hard disk utilities) Extended Memory
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SYSTEM VIDEO
The system's LCD operates using the Chips and Technologies 65550A1 VGA Controller. Video signals travel from the controller through the system's 15-pin D-SUB connector using 5 volts. System video integrates a PCI-bus interface. The system ships with 2 MB Video RAM (VRAM). It supports video modes up to 1024 x 768 with 64K colors in LCD mode. See Appendix B for a list of Video modes.
PARALLEL INTERFACE
The system' s parallel interface integrates National Semiconductor's PC87338 chip with a 25-pin D-subconnector. The port is located on the system's rear panel. The modes of operation available for a PC87338 chip are:
T compatibility mode T nibble mode T byte mode T Extended Capabilities Port (ECP) T Enhanced Parallel Port (EPP).
The user selects between three parallel interface modes using Auto Setup. These include unidirectional, bidirectional or enhanced. Unidirectional mode sends data output from the standard ISA port only. Bidirectional mode sends data using the standard ISA port or PS/2 technology. Enhanced mode enables high speed data transmission to occur using either the unidirectional or bidirectional modes. The default parallel port address is 378h and the interrupt level is IRQ07. Pin locations for the parallel interface are listed in Appendix A.
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SERIAL INTERFACE
The RS-232C serial port is a 9-pin connector on the system's rear panel. The serial port consists of a 16550A and 16450 compatible serial port controller with a programmable baud rate up to 115,200 bps. The serial port connects an RS-232C device or an external modem. The default serial port address is 3F8h and the interrupt level is IRQ04.
NEC VERSA CHIP SET
Refer to Table 1-3 for a quick summary of the chip types used in the system. See the Abbreviations section at the beginning of this manual for a translation of chip technologies.
Table 1-3 NEC Versa Series Chip Types and Technologies
Chip Intel Pentium P55CLM 82430MX PCI 82437MX (MTSC) 82371MX (MPIIX) N28F020-150 C&T 65550A1 PC87338VJG M38813E PCI1130 ViBRA CT2505 16C Manufacturer Intel Intel Intel Intel Intel Chips & Technologies National Semiconductor Mitsubishi Texas Instruments Creative Technology Description 150 MHz CPU M-Triton Data Path Controller M-Triton System Controller M-PCI IDE ISA Xcelerator 256k x 8 Flash ROM VGA Controller Diskette Controller, IDE, Parallel Interface Keyboard Controller PC Card Controller Sound Controller Technology 320-pin TCP 100-pin QFP 208-pin SQFP 176-pin TQFP 32-pin PLCC 208-pin FQFP 100-pin QFP 64-pin TQFP 208-pin VQFP 100-pin PQFP
Intel Pentium P55CLM Microprocessor
The 150 MHz Intel Pentium microprocessor used in the NEC Versa series computer is built on Intel's advanced 3.3V BiCMOS silicon technology. The CPU has on-chip dualprocessing, a local multiprocessor interrupt controller, and power management features. NEC adopted the chip specifically for its pipelined Floating Point Unit (FPU), and local interrupt management.
M-Triton System Controller
NEC implements Intel's Mobile Triton technology for several of the notebook's subsystems including the DRAM controller, Second Level Cache Controller and PCI Bus interface. The Mobile Triton PCIset features include:
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Technical Information
T hyper page mode DRAM support T direct mapped organization-write back policy T fully synchronous 30 MHz PCI bus interface.
256K X Flash ROM
The N28F020 flash ROM is a 32-pin, plastic lead chip carrier (PLCC). The chip allows easy updates to the system's BIOS if needed. More specifically, the ROM is flashed electronically, installing the latest BIOS revisions to the system. It is possible to reprogram the BIOS up to 100,000 times. See Section 2, Setup and Operation, for BIOS update procedures. The N28F020 provides the system upgrade capability as well as the following: T 256 KB memory
T T T T
Quick-Pulse Programming Algorithm 150 nanoseconds (ns) maximum access time ETOX Nonvolatile flash technology CMOS low power consumption
ROM BIOS
The system uses a Flash ROM known as the system's ROM BIOS to store machine language programs. The BIOS size is 256 KB, consisting of the system utility (for PC cards, Auto Setup), system BIOS, video BIOS, and power management. The BIOS programs execute the power-on self-test (POST), initialize CPU controllers, and interact with the LCD indicator panel, diskette drive, hard drive, communication devices and peripherals. The system BIOS also contains Auto Setup and provides VGA controller support. The ROM BIOS is copied into RAM (shadowing) for optimum performance. The ROM BIOS contains both the system and video BIOS. The system BIOS is located in the upper portion of the device, video BIOS is located in the lower portion. System BIOS is located between F000h-FFFFh. The BIOS often changes after the product release to provide enhanced features or bug fixes. To acquire the latest BIOS release, the ROM is flashed electronically allowing the BIOS update to occur without removing the ROM. See Section 2, Setup and Operation, for BIOS upgrade procedures.
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VGA Controller
The Chips and Technologies 65550A1 is a PCI 64-bit Graphics Accelerator. The integrated programmable linear address feature accelerates the graphics user interface (GUI) performance. The controller also supports Hardware Multimedia and VESA interface standards. The controller provides advanced power management that helps to minimize power usage in:
T normal operation T Standby (sleep) mode T panel off power saving modes.
Parallel Interface
The PC87338VLJ chip is a 100-pin Thin Quad Flat Plastic (TQFP) chip. The controller changes 8-bit parallel data into serial data and writes the data to the diskette. Conversely, the serial data is transmitted from the diskette into parallel data, where it remains until the read operation takes place. Additional PC87338VLJ chip operations include: T ISA compatibility
T low-power CMOS with enhanced power-down mode
Keyboard Controller
The keyboard controller (M38813E) supports a PS/2-style keyboard, mouse and password security feature. Refer to Appendix A for keyboard interface connector pin assignments. When data is written to the output buffer, the controller generates an interrupt, and requests the CPU to receive the data. The controller automatically adds an even parity bit to the data sent and waits for a response. The device must acknowledge that the data was successfully received by sending a response to the controller for each byte of data received.
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PC CardBus Controller
The Texas Instruments PCI1130 controller interfaces with the PCI bus, PC CardBus socket and configuration registers to provide:
T compliant with PCI 2.1 and 1995 PC card standards T CardBus slots with hot insertion and removal T independent Read and Write buffers for each direction T burst transfers to maximize data throughput on the PCI CardBus bus.
Sound Integrated Circuit
The Creative VibraTM 16C VLSI chip is a single combo chip. This dynamic audio circuitry provides the following:
T ISA 16-bit bus interface chip T audio digital processor T Plug and Play support T One 46 MHz crystal for Digital Interface, Digital Audio Processor, and Music
Synthesizer with a digital to analog converter (DAC)
T high performance 16-bit Sigma Delta Stereo Codec T Sound BlasterTM 16 register compatible mixer with AGC T built-in analog joystick quad timer.
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Interrupt Controllers
Using interrupts, it is possible to change the system's code sequence. To change the sequence, reassign the interrupt-levels. Fifteen interrupts can be used with a cascade connection of two 82C59 interrupt controllers. Interrupt-level assignments 0 through 15 are listed in Table 1-4, in order of decreasing priority.
Table 1-4
Controller Master/Slave Master Master Master Slave Slave Slave Slave Slave Slave Slave Master Master Master Master Master Priority 1 2 310 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
Interrupt Controllers
Name IRQ00 IRQ01 IRQ02 IRQ09 IRQ10 IRQ11 IRQ12 IRQ13 IRQ14 IRQ15 IRQ03 IRQ04 IRQ05 IRQ06 IRQ07 Device Counter 0/Timer 1 Keyboard INT output from controller 2 Infrared Port Reserved (PCI steering/CardBus controller) Reserved (PCI steering/CardBus controller) PS/2 Mouse Math Coprocessor (built into CPU) Hard Disk Controller 1 Reserved (2nd IDE on Docking Station or CardBus card) Internal Modem Serial Port 1 Sound Diskette Drive Controller Parallel Port 1
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POWER MANAGEMENT OVERVIEW
Power Management in the NEC Versa lets you conserve energy, save battery power, extend the life of your LCD backlight, and protect against data loss due to low battery power. Set some features to function automatically or activate them manually with the keyboard or a button. It is wise to keep Power Management features enabled, even when using AC power. The system arrives set up with many power-saving features already enabled. See the following table.
Table 1-5
Device Video
Automatic Power-Saving Features
Default Timeout 2 minutes Comment Video turns off after there is no keyboard or VersaGlide input for the specified timeout. Hard disk motor stops when hard disk is not accessed for specified timeout. System enters Standby mode after total system inactivity.
Hard Disk
1 minute
Standby
1 minute
You can change the timeout period for any of the devices using Setup. See Section 2 for Setup utility procedures. Use the FnF7 key combination to set the power management level. The faucet icon changes when the power management setting changes. You can toggle between Highest Performance, Longest Battery Life, Custom Power Management, and Off. Default values change depending on the type of power management you use. NOTE: Some power management features are unavailable when connected to an NEC docking station. For example, the Suspend and Save to File features do not work. The system enters Standby mode if Suspend or Save to File is activated.
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System Power Management
The system power management consists of the following operation modes. These modes are:
T Active Mode In active mode, the system uses maximum power. It operates
with the default clock speed. The system continues to run at this speed unless overwritten by the power management features.
T Standby Mode The system switches automatically to Standby mode. This
eliminates unnecessary power consumption when you operate the system on battery power or AC. Standby mode shuts down the LCD panel, providing privacy as well as power savings.
T Suspend Mode Suspend mode causes the CPU power down, local devices to
shut down, and register values to be stored in RAM. System RAM is put into a slow refresh state. The system resumes Active mode when you press the Suspend button, the system detects a modem ring, or the system is set to resume at a certain time of day. (The system will not resume Active mode if a modem detects a ring.) Suspend mode lets you save power without first saving the working data. Press the Suspend button to enter Suspend mode when you need to be away from the system for a short period of time and want to return to where you left off. In addition, to quickly activate the Save to File feature, press the Fn and Suspend button simultaneously. This shuts down the system, and saves the current working data to a file.
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Local Power Management
Use Auto Setup to select one of four power management settings for local devices. These include Longest Battery Life, Highest Performance, Custom Setup, and Power Management Off. The power management levels are also available during AC operation. The NEC Versa computer ships with Longest Battery Life as the default power management setting. See Section 2 for specific procedures on using Auto Setup to select the power management settings. When set to Longest Battery Life, CMOS will set local device timeout values, a local standby timeout value, and a suspend timeout value to ensure the longest battery life. The Highest Performance setting selects CMOS values that will provide minimal energy savings and a shorter battery life. The custom settings enable end-users to set the timeout values of their choice. The Power Management Off selection terminates all power management timers. Local device timers in the system control power consumption in the LCD and Hard Disk Drive. Table 1-6 shows NEC Versa Series Maximum Performance default power management timers.
Table 1-6
Power Management Mode Longest Battery Life Highest Performance Custom
Maximum Performance Default Settings
Video Timeout
Automatic Suspend Hard Disk Timer
10 minutes 30 minutes 10 minutes
1 minute 10 minutes 30 seconds
2 minutes 10 minutes 30 seconds
PLUG AND PLAY
The NEC Versa features a Plug and Play functionality. Plug and Play is the ability of the BIOS and/or operating system to dynamically assign system resources to a newly installed device without user intervention. For example