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Maintenance Manual

ExtensaTM 900 Series Notebook Computers
9813715-0001
December 1996

Copyright © 1996 Texas Instruments All Rights Reserved ExtensaTM 900 Series Notebook Computers Maintenance Manual TI Part No. 9813715-0001 Original Issue: December 1996 Changes may be made periodically to the information in this publication. Such changes will be incorporated in new editions of this manual. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Texas Instruments. The equipment, as well as the programs that TI has created to use with them, are tools that can help people better manage the information used in their business; but tools -- including TI products -- cannot replace sound judgement nor make the manager's business decisions. Consequently, TI cannot warrant that its products are suitable for any specific customer application. The manager must rely on judgement of what is best for his or her business. Address all correspondence regarding orders to: Texas Instruments P.O. Box 6102, M/S 3255 Temple, Texas 76503
Extensa is a trademark of Texas Instruments. The icons in the Windows Notebook and Startup groups are copyrighted by Texas Instruments. IBM and PS/2 are registered trademarks, and OS/2 is a trademark of International Business Machines Corporation. Microsoft, Windows and MS-DOS are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.. Intel and Pentium are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation. Cirrus is a registered trademark of Cirrus Logic, Inc. Ethernet is a registered trademark of Xerox Corporation. IRDA is a trademark of Infra Red Data Association. Sound Blaster is a trademark of Creative Technology, Ltd. SimulSCAN is a trademark of Cirrus Logic, Inc. SCSI is a registered trademark of Security Control Systems, Inc. Synaptics is a registered trademark of Synaptics, Inc. Phillips is a tegistered trademark of Phillips screw Company. TranXit is a trademark of Puma Technology, Inc. Cyrix is a registered trademark of Dakota Systems, Incorporated. CHIPS is a registered trademark of Chips Technologies, Inc. AudioRack is a trademark of ESS Technology, Inc.

Preface
Introduction
This manual provides installation, operation and servicing data for the ExtensaTM 900 Series Notebook Computers.

Intended Audience
This manual is primarily intended for use by qualified service technicians but contains information useful to non-technical users.

Contents
This manual contains six sections and one appendix that are common to all Extensa 900 Series Notebook Computers (differences described as they are covered):

Section 1: General Description - Introduces the main features of the Extensa
900 Series Notebook Computers; identifies all options, provides physical and electrical specifications.

Section 2: Installation - Describes how to unpack, install options and begin
using the notebook.

Section 3: Operating Instructions - Describes the notebook computer
operating controls and indicators and basic operating procedures required to support maintenance operations.

Section 4: Theory of Operation - Provides a block diagram level theory of
operation for the Extensa Series Notebooks.

Section 5: Troubleshooting Procedures - Provides troubleshooting
procedures for the notebook computer series.

Section 6: Field Service - Provides preventive and corrective maintenance
procedures for the notebook computer series including FRU removal/ replacement procedures.

Appendix A: Notebook Schematic Diagrams - Provides schematic diagrams
for the Extensa 900 Series Notebook Computer.

Appendix B: MPB Schematic Diagrams - Provides schematic diagrams for the
Extensa 900 Series Mobile Productivity Base.

Preface ix

Other Manuals About the System
The following documents provide additional information related to the Extensa Notebook Computer Series:

Extensa Series Notebook Computers Users Guide - Contains user reference
information for the Extensa 900 Series Notebook Computers.

PC-Doctor Help and Technical Reference (online)

Ordering Parts and Supplies
To order a copy of any TI publication or to order option kits, spare parts or supplies for your system, contact your TI reseller: Telephone Toll-free: 1-800-TI TEXAS.

x Preface

Contents
Paragraph Preface
Introduction - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Intended Audience- - - - - - - - - - Contents - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Other Manuals About the SystemOrdering Parts and Supplies - - - - vii - vii - vii -viii -viii

Page

Section 1 General Description
Introduction - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-1 Product Overview - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-1 Video Display Features - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-3 Internal LCD - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-3 External CRTs - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-3 Display Hot Key Sequences - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-3 Keyboard Features - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-4 Software Features - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-4 Standard Peripheral Devices - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-5 900 Series Connectivity Features - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-5 Notebook Expansion Capabilities - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-7 Memory Expanson - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-7 PCMCIA Card Options - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-7 Mobile Productivity Base Option - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-7 Docking and Undocking- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-10 Mobile Productivity Base Ports - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-11 Advanced PCI Card Options - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-12 Notebook Battery - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-12 Standard Test Features - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-12 Power On Self Test - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-12 PC-Doctor Diagnostics Program- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-13 Extensa 900 Series Specifications - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-14 Regulatory Agency Approvals- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1-17

Section 2 Installation
Introduction - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Unpacking Instructions - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Installing Internal Notebook Options - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Installing Main Memory Expansion (Optional) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Setting Up the Software - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Installing PCMCIA Options - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2-1 2-1 2-2 2-2 2-3 2-4

Contents iii

Contents
Paragraph Section 2 Installation (continued)
Installing External Notebook Options - - - - - - - - - - - - Installing the Mobile Productivity Base (Option) - Docking the Notebook to the MPB - - - - - - Cabling to the MPB - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Installing Ext. Keyboard/Mouse/Numeric Keypad Installing an External Parallel Printer - - - - - - - - Installing an External Serial Port Device - - - - - - Installing an External VGA Monitor - - - - - - - - - Primary Battery Pack Installation - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Installing the AC Power Adapter - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Initial Software Load - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

(continued)
Page
- 2-5 - 2-5 - 2-5 - 2-6 - 2-8 - 2-9 2-10 2-11 2-13 2-13 2-14

Section 3 Operating Instructions
Introduction - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-1 Controls/Indicators - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-1 Power On/Off Switch - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-2 Notebook LEDs - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-2 LED Icons - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-2 Keyboard Hot Key Sequences - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-3 Windows 95 Special Keys - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-5 DOS Special Keys - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-5 Configuring the Touchpad- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-6 Using a CD-ROM Drive (MPB Option Only - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-6 Inserting a CD (MPB Option Only) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-6 Handling CDs (MPB Option Only - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-6 Built-In Sound System - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-7 Turning Sound On/Off- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-7 Sound Software - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-7 External Sound Equipment- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-8 Using Remote Connections - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-8 Using the Fast Infrared (FIR) Port- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-8 Using Zoomed Video Features - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-9 MPEG PC Card - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-9 Battery Saving Tips - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-9 Lowering Inactivity Timeouts- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-9 Suspending Operation While Idle - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-10 Responding to a Low Battery Condition- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-10 Replacing the Battery- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-11 Saving to Disk - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3-11

iv Contents

Contents
Paragraph Section 4 Theory of Operation

(continued)
Page

Introduction - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4-1 Notebook Functional Overview - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4-1 System Processor - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4-3 Memory Subsystem- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4-5 Main Memory- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4-5 Flash ROM - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4-6 System Controller Function - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4-6 ALI M1521 (Memory, Cache and DRAM Controller)- - - - - - - - - - - - - 4-8 ALI M1523 (PCA-ISA Bridge)- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4-9 Video Subsystem - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -4-12 C&T 65550 Features - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -4-12 Versatile Panel Support - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -4-13 Low Power Consumption - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -4-13 Software Compatibility/Flexibility - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -4-13 Sound Subsystem - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -4-13 ESS1878 Audio Controller with Interface to Expansion Audio Mixer -4-13 ES1878 Features - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -4-14 Keyboard Subsystem - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -4-14 I/O Subsystem - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -4-14 NS87338VJG Super I/O Controller - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -4-14 Hard Disk Drive Subsystem - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -4-17 PCI0643 Features- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -4-17 Floppy Disk Drive Subsystem - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -4-18 PCI 1130 Features - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -4-19 PCMCIA Subsystem - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -4-18 Power Subsystem - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -4-20 ALI M6377 Power Management Unit - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -4-22 AC Power Adapter- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -4-25 Mobile Productivity Base Interface - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -4-25

Section 5 Troubleshooting Procedures
Introduction - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Overview of Fault Isolation Process - - - - - - - Troubleshooting Procedures - - - - - - - - - - - - Troubleshooting a Power Supply Problem Troubleshooting a Display Problem - - - Fault Isolation Using Power On Self TestPOST Error Messages - - - - - - - - POST Beep Error Messages - - - - Run-Time Error Messages - - - - - - - - - PCMCIA Modem Problems - - - - - - - - - - 5-1 - 5-1 - 5-3 - 5-3 - 5-3 - 5-4 - 5-5 - 5-8 - 5-9 -5-10

Contents v

Contents
Paragraph Section 6 Troubleshootig Procedures (continued)
General Fault Isolation Procedures - - - - - - - - - - Fault Isolation Using Diagnostics - - - - - - - - - - - PC-Doctor (In DOS Mode or DOS Windows) Supporting Online Documentation - - - - - - User Interface to PC-Doctor - - - - - - - - - - Quitting PC-Doctor - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

(continued)
Page
5-12 5-13 5-13 5-15 5-15 5-15

Section 6 Field Service
Introduction - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-1 Preventive Maintenance - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-1 Cleaning the Computer - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-1 Handling the Computer - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-2 Handling the Computer Battery Pack - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-2 Password Caution - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-3 Required Tools and Equipment - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-3 Notebook FRUs - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-3 Cover-Display Assembly - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-4 System Base Assembly- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-6 Mobile Productivity Base Assembly - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-9 Notebook FRU Replacement Procedures - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-10 Removing/Replacing the Notebook Battery Pack- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-11 Removing/Replacing PCMCIA Options - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-12 Installing/Removing the Mobile Productivity Base- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-13 Removing/Replacing the Hard Disk Drive Assembly - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-15 Removing/Replacing the Keyboard Assembly - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-16 Heat Sink Assembly Removal/Replacement - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-17 Display Assembly Removal/Replacement - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-18 Removing/Replacing the LED/Microphone Board Assembly - - - - - - - - - - 6-19 Removing/Replacing the CPU Board- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-20 Removing/Replacing the Top Cover - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-21 Removing/Replacing the VGA Video Board - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-23 Removing/Replacing the Power Supply Board - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-24 Removing/Replacing the DC-In Board Assembly- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-25 Removng/Replacing the PC Card Module - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-26 Removing/Replacing the Main Board Assembly - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-27 Removing Touchpad and Speakers - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-28 Removing/Replacing the Display Bezel - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-29 Removing/Replacing the LCD - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-30 Removing/Replacing the Display Inverter Boards - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-31 Removing/Repalcing MPB FRUs- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-32 Removing/Replacing the Media Bay Device - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 6-32

vi Contents

Contents
Paragraph Section 6 Field Service (continued)
Removing/Replacing Removing/Replacing Removing/Replacing Removing/Replacing Removing/Replacing Removing/Replacing the the the the the the MPB Battery - - - - - - - - - MPB Housing- - - - - - - - - Docking Cable - - - - - - - - Docking Mechanism - - - - MPB DC-DC Converter - - MPB Main Board Assembly -

(continued)
Page
-6-33 -6-34 -6-35 -6-36 -6-37 -6-38

Appendix A Notebook Schematic Diagrams
Introduction - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - A-1

Appendix B Notebook Schematic Diagrams
Introduction - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - B-1

Appendix A POST BIOS
Introduction - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - C-1

Contents vii

1 General Description
1.1 Introduction
This manual contains field and factory level servicing information for the ExtensaTM 900 Series Notebook Computers (Figure 1-1) marketed by Texas Instruments. This section provides a general overview of the Extensa 900 Series, describes the standard and optional features, and identifies the major assemblies and subassemblies. This section also contains detailed functional and environmental specifications for the Extensa 900 Series Notebook Computers. Figure 1-1 Extensa 900 Series Notebook Computers

Basic Extensa 900 Series Notebook

Extensa 900 Series with Mobile Productivity Base

1.2 Product Overview
The Extensa 900 Series Notebook Computers are ultra-slim, large screen, highperformance, multimedia notebooks powered by the Intel® P54CSLM Pentium® Processor Chip (133-MHz). The Extensa 900 can be equipped with an optional Mobile Productivity Base that allows for quick connect/disconnect to/from the desktop environment and expanded functionality (modular bay and Advanced PCI card features).

Other major features of the 900 Series include:

133 MHz Pentium processor with internal 256 KB cache memory and math
coprocessor

General Description 1-1

Powerful PCI Bus architecture 16 MB
main memory (expandable to 80 MB using 8 MB, 8 MB, 16 MB, 32 MB or 64 MB EDO 64-bit type small outline dual inline memory module (soDIMM) upgrades)

256 KB Level-2 cache memory Built-in 2.5-inch IDE high capacity (1.35 GB or greater) Hard Disk Drive External Floppy Drive Module (attaches to the Parallel Port) Advanced video features
- DSTN or TFT internal color display - Simultaneous display with external CRT - 2.0 MB video memory - Fast video graphics accelerator

Built-In 86/87-key keyboard Internal touchpad pointing device with two Select buttons Fast Infrared communications Built-in audio features
- 16-bit stereo audio - Line In, Line Out and Microphone In stereo jacks

Small, lightweight AC adapter, auto-switching (90 VAC to 264 VAC, 50-60 Hz) Portable power system with advanced power savings features for extra long
battery life - Zero-Volt Suspend, 5-Volt Suspend and Standby power saving modes - Rechargeable Li-Ion battery pack

Powerful expansion capabilities including:
- Flexible set of desktop ports including external CRT (and simultaneous LCD and external CRT display), 9-pin serial port, parallel port for external printer/floppy drive, PS/2® port for external keyboard or mouse - PC Card slots for two Type I or II options or one Type III option - Mobile Productivity Base ready Figure 1-2 identifies the major external notebook features.

1-2 General Description

LCD Power Switch Status Indicators

Right Speaker Right Battery Lock

FIR Port Audio and Mic Jacks Left Speaker Touchpad Left Battery Lock Battery Pack

Bottom of Unit
HDD Access Cover

VGA Port PC Card Slots PS/2 Port Serial Port Parallel Port AC Adapter Connection Expansion Memory Acess Cover

Figure 1-2 900 Series Notebook External Features

1.2.1 Video Display Features
The Extensa 900 Series Notebooks contain large screen internal LCD displays and can simultaneously drive the internal LCD and an external CRT (SimulSCANTM mode). On all Extensa models, the LCD screen brightness, contrast, video mode of operation, etc. are adjustable from the keyboard as described in Section 3.

General Description 1-3

1.2.1.1 Internal LCD
The Extensa 900 Series Notebooks contain one of the following LCDs (model dependent):

12.1-inch DSTN display (900CD Only) 11.3-inch TFT 1.2.1.2 External CRTs
The Extensa 900 Series Notebooks are equipped with a 15-pin SVGA connector that can drive an external CRT (either alone or simultaneously with the internal LCD). When the notebook is set to the SimulSCAN mode, a minimum resolution of 800 x 600 x 256 colors is supported. When operating in the External CRT Mode, resolutions up to 1280 x 1024 x 256 colors are supported.

1.2.1.3 Display Hot Key Sequences
The display mode of operation (LCD only, Simultaneous LCD and external CRT and external CRT only modes) is keyboard-selectable using the following hot key sequences.

Fn-Up Arrow and Fn-Down Arrow - Control LCD screen brightness (higher
brightness setting uses more battery energy)

Fn-Right Arrow Fn-Left Arrow

- Lightens the LCD screen contrast

- Darkens the LCD screen contrast

Fn-F12 - Alternates between display modes (LCD, External CRT or both) Fn-F11 - Turns off the LCD backlight; pressing any key turns the LCD backlight
on.

Note: In addition to the hot keys that control the notebook display functions, there are several other hot key functions that control other notebook functions such as turning the Touchpad on/off, etc. For these sequences, refer to Section 3.

1-4 General Description

1.2.2 Keyboard Features
The Extensa 900 Series Notebooks contain a built-in 86/87-key keyboard (Figure 1-3) compatible with the IBM® enhanced 101/102-key keyboard. The keyboard contains 12 programmable function keys, an embedded numeric keypad (Figure 1-4) and dedicated control keys (hot keys).

Figure 1-3 Embedded Numeric Keypad

1.2.3 Software Features
As a standard feature, the Extensa 900 notebooks are factory loaded with dual load (Windows® 95 or Windows for Workgroups) software to allow the user to configure the notebook's operating system environment as summarized in Table 1-1. Table 1-1 User-Selectable Operating System Environments
Operating System
Windows 95

Description
Supports both desktop and mobile operation with Plug N Play capabilities and Advanced Power Management; customized to include TI startup screen, CSL Support information, Internet browser, multimedia options, and choice of wallpaper to customize different computer resources, TI utilities such as wBattery, wSetpower, TISetup, variety of device drivers including Cirrus® CL-GD7548, ESS 1888 Sound Device Drivers, WinModem Device Drivers, PC-Card Bus Socket Services and Card Services Device Drivers, and Windows 95 MPEG-1 Software Audio/Video Compression Device Drivers. This environment has some limitations in the Plug N Play area; includes TI utilities and various device drivers including Cirrus CL-GD7548, ESS 1888 Sound Device Drivers, WinModem Device Drivers, PC-Card Bus Socket Services and Card Services Device Drivers, etc.

Windows/DOS 6.22

General Description 1-5

1.2.4 Standard Peripheral Devices
As standard features, the Extensa notebooks include an internal IDE hard drive, an external 3.5-inch floppy disk drive and built-in touchpad (mouse device).

1.2.5 900 Series Connectivity Features
As standard features, the Extensa 900 Series notebooks includes most standard desktop ports including a serial port, parallel port, PS/2 port, and external VGA port. The 900 Series also includes a fast infrared (FIR) port and an expansion bus connector for attaching to the optional Mobile Productivity Base. The external ports for the 900 Series are shown in Figure 1-4 and described in Table 1-2.

VGA Port Serial Port Parallel Port PS/2 Port AC Adapter Connection

FIR Port Line Out Line In Mic In

Figure 1-4 900 Series External Ports

1-6 General Description

Table 1-2 900 Series External Ports
Port Assignment
External VGA Port Serial Port Parallel Port

Description
15-pin Female connector used to attach an external SVGA monitor to the notebook. 9-pin Male connector used to attach an RS-232 serial device to the notebook. 25-pin Female connector used to attach a bidirectional printer or an external floppy disk drive (requires special cable for use with floppy disk drive). 6-pin Circular connectors used to attach external keyboard/mouse devices to the notebook. Power in connector used to attach the output of the AC adapter to the notebook. Fast Infrared Port (4 M/b) used for wireless communications between the notebook and an FIR-equipped device such as keyboard, another notebook, printer, etc. Stereo audio line inputs, stereo line outputs and external microphone input PCI Bus plus sidebands that support an optional Mobile Productivity Base.

PS/2 Port AC Adapter Connector Fast Infrared Port

Audio In/Out, Mic In Jacks MPB Bus

1.2.6 Notebook Expansion Capabilities
In addition to the external ports, the Extensa 900 Series Notebooks are designed with a variety of expansion features that permit substantial functionality and performance upgrades over the life of the product. The expansion capabilities built into the notebook are summarized in Table 1-3 and described in greater detail in the following paragraphs. Table 1-3 Extensa 900 Expansion Features Summary
Expansion Feature
External 3.5-inch Diskette Drive Module Memory Expansion Features Flash ROM (hardware feature) PCMCIA Slots Mobile Productivity Base Ready

Description
Provides convenient storage on a removable diskette format Main memory can be expanded from 16 MB to a maximum of 80 MB using one soDIMM module (8 MB, 16 MB, 32 MB, or 64 MB configurations). Permits new versions of BIOS to be downloaded into Flash ROM without physically having to replace the ROMs Allows installation of any optional PCMCIA device such as speakerphone modems, Ethernet® cards, and full motion video cards. Connectors and latch mechanisms to accept a Mobile Productivity Base (provides desktop connectivity with quick removal/installation feature required for combination desktop and portable environments and increased functionality including media bay and Advanced PCI Card support).

General Description 1-7

1.2.7 Memory Expansion
The notebook comes standard with 16 MB of RAM expandable to a maximum of 80 MB using soDIMM modules (available in 8, 16, 32 or 64 MB sizes). Access to the expansion socket is accommodated via a removable panel on the bottom of the notebook as shown in Figure 1-5.

Expansion Memory Access Cover

Figure 1-5 Memory Expansion Features

1.2.8 PCMCIA Card Options
The Notebook contains an onboard PCMCIA Controller and two 64-pin sockets that can accept up to two credit-card size (14.5 mm) Type I or Type II PCMCIA option cards or one Type III card. The PCMCIA Card options install on the left side of the notebook (Figure 1-6) and are removed using the PC Card Release levers.

1-8 General Description

Figure 1-6 Installing PCMCIA Card Options

1.2.9 Mobile Productivity Base Option
The Mobile Productivity Base (Figure 1-7) provides a port replicator function with separate External Keyboard and Mouse ports, plus powerful desktop expansion features including a Modular Bay for CD-ROM or Floppy Disk Drive and provisions for an Advanced PCI Card option. These features are summarized in Table 1-4. Table 1-4 Mobile Productivity Base Expansion Features
Expansion Feature
Media Bay CD-ROM Drive Media Bay 3.5-inch Diskette Drive Module Advanced PCI Slot Secondary Battery Option

Description
Reads from Audio CD, Photo CD or CD-ROM Provides convenient storage on a removable disk format Provisions for installing one Advanced PCI Card Provides for extended portable operation time

General Description 1-9

Notebook Connector Secondary Battery

Audio Jacks

Advanced PCI Option Slot Media Bay (Floppy or CD-ROM Drive) Two PS/2 Ports for both External Keyboard and Mouse Standard Notebook Ports

Figure 1-7 Mobile Productivity Base (MPB) Features

1.2.9.1 Docking and Undocking
Docking and undocking of the Mobile Productivity Base is controlled by a latch and lever on the left side of the base as shown in Figure 1-8. The latch releases the lever; the lever is extended 90 degrees outward to release the notebook.

1-10 General Description

Docking/ Undocking Lever

Lever Release Latch

Left Side Right Side

Figure 1-8 Undocking from the Mobile Productivity Base

1.2.9.2 Mobile Productivity Base Ports
The Mobile Productivity Base provides the same ports as available on the Notebook plus an additional PS/2 port to allow for both external mouse and keyboard. The port assignments are shown in Figure 1-9.

General Description 1-11

Mic In Line In Line Out PS/2 Keyboard Port PS/2 Mouse Port Serial Port Parallel Port Advanced PCI

VGA Port

Figure 1-9 Mobile Productivity Base Ports

1.2.9.3 Advanced PCI Card Options
The Extensa 900 Series Notebooks contain provisions for an advanced PCI Card as shown in Figure 1-7.

1.3 Notebook Battery
The notebook computer uses a Lithium-Ion battery pack. A second identical battery can be installed in the optional Mobile Connectivity Base as shown in Figure 1-7.

1.4 Standard Test Features
The Extensa 900 Series Notebook Computers use modular design and built-in test features to reduce the mean time to repair. A power on self test program automatically verifies the operational state of the primary circuits and a powerful suite of diagnostic tests (known as PC-Doctor) are available to further test selected parts of the system.

1.4.1 Power On Self Test
The Extensa line of notebook computers contain a BIOS-resident, Power On Self Test (POST) that automatically performs a test of memory and all major circuits each time

1-12 General Description

the computer is powered up. In the event of a failure, the computer displays a descriptive error message and issues a series of coded beeps (in case the display subsystem is not functioning). If self test completes normally, the computer displays the amount of memory tested, loads the Operating System and Windows environment.

1.4.2 PC-Doctor Diagnostics Program
The Extensa 900 Series Notebooks are shipped with PC-Doctor for Windows, a powerful diagnostics tool that can help you scan a system for viruses, determine the hardware configuration of a local or remote system, benchmark its performance, analyze the performance of all subsystems, and perform a suite of interactive and non-interactive tests on attached devices (such as printers, VGA monitors, SCSI® devices, CD-ROM drives). The test results are stored in a log which can be printed out (by pressing F2) or saved in a disk file (by pressing F3). Features of the diagnostic program are accessed through a series of pull-down menus and basic keyboard keys (cursor keys to move highlighted pointer, Enter key to select a highlighted feature, Esc key to cancel a function and move back one level. PC-Doctor is typically user-friendly but if you don't understand a feature, contextsensitive help information is available at any time by pressing the F1 function key; pressing the F1 function key twice accesses the online Technical Reference Manual for PC-Doctor. A powerful set of utilities within PC-Doctor (that can be run locally or remotely) simplify the task of determining system configuration data, allocating and using system memory, IRQ and DMA use, what device drivers are installed, what COM and LPT ports are assigned and what ports are available, identifying partitioning data for fixed disk drive(s), determining the VGA setup information, reading the software interrupts/ interrupt vectors, etc.

Note: Refer to Troubleshooting Procedures (Section 5) for additional information regarding the Diagnostics Program.

General Description 1-13

1.5 Extensa 900 Series Specifications
General specifications for the Extensa 900 Series Notebooks are provided in Table 1-5. Table 1-5 Extensa 900 Specifications
Characteristic Model 900 Series Specifications
Pentium P54CSLM, 133 MHz; 3.1 Volt,

CPU Internal Hard Disk Drive
Disk Storage Capacity: Average access time:
Throughput

1.35 GB or greater 12 ms or less 11+ Million I/O's per second

DRAM Memory
Size Maximum Expansion Size
16 MB DRAM, 60-ns, page-interleaved 80 MB

Flash ROM: FDD
Disk Storage Capacity:
Disk Size Drive Height Mode

256 KB External

1.44 MB

3.5-inch disk 12.5 mm Choice of 720 KB/1.2 MB or 1.44 MB

CD-ROM Drive LCD Display Software Internal Keyboard
Key Travel

Available with Mobile Productivity Base option 12.1-inch DSTN, SVGA or 11.3-inch TFT, SVGA Dual Load 86/87-key, PS/2 and AT-compatible Embedded Numeric Keypad 3 mm
Touchpad built-in to the base of the keyboard (select buttons on sides of Touchpad)

Built-in Mouse Device

1-14 General Description

Table 1-5 Extensa 900 Specifications
Characteristic Model 900 Series Specifications

Video Subsystem
LCD Aspect Ratio
Emulations: 1-1

SVGA 1.5 MB

Video Memory Size
Video Bus: LCD Resolution: LCD Characters/Line

32-bits 640 x 480 pixels bit-mapped at 256 colors 80 25

LCD Lines/Screen: LCD Brightness Control: Function hot key brightness and contrast control and SimulSCAN control

External CRT Monitor Interface
Connector Type: Monitors Supported:
15-Pin, female, D-type connector

640 x 480 with 16.7 million colors on CRT 800 x 600 with 65K colors on CRT 1024 x 768 with up to 256 colors on CRT

General Description 1-15

Table 1-5 Extensa 900 Specifications
Characteristic Model 900 Series Specifications
9-Pin, male, sub-D-type connector

RS-232-D Serial Port:
Method:
Type: Bits per second:

EIA RS-232-D

Asynchronous transmission 110, 200, 300, 600, 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600, 19200

Parity: Transmit: Receive: Line control: Data word:

Odd, even, mark, space Data check: odd, even READY/BUSY, DC1/DC3 7- or 8-bit Yes

16550 UART Support Selectable Serial Port (BIOS Setup)

COM1(IRQ4, 3F8h) COM2(IRQ3, 2F8h) COM3(IRQ4, 3E8h) COM4(IRQ4, 2E8h) Disable

Parallel Port
Connector Type

EPP/ECP Bidirectional

25-Pin, DB-25 Connector Yes

Fast I/R Port
Transfer Data Rate

4 Mb/s Yes

Mobile Productivity Base Ready

1-16 General Description

1.6 Regulatory Agency Approvals
All Extensa 900 Series products meet the following regulatory agency standards:

Underwriter's Lab (UL) Standard 1950 (safety) Canadian Standards Association (CSA) Standard 950 or CUL (safety) FCC CFR 47, Part 15, Subpart B, FCC Level B (Emissions) Canadian Department of Communications (DOC) ICES, Class B (Emissions) VDE- EN60950 (Safety) EN 50082-1 (Immunity: ESD, RFI, EFT, and Surge) EN 50081-1 (Emissions: RFI, EMI, Harmonics, and Flicker) Approval Marks: UL, CUL, VDE, FCC, and CE

General Description 1-17

2 Installation
2.1 Introduction
This section contains unpacking and preparation for use instructions for the Extensa 900 Series Notebook Computers. This includes:

Removing the computer and all manuals, options and accessories from the
shipping container(s)

Installing Internal Notebook Options Installing External Notebook Options Installing Battery Packs Installing Desktop Devices Installing the AC Adapter Checking Out the System Installing the System Software Making Backups of System Software Loading Application Software

2.2 Unpacking Instructions
Unpack the computer using the following instructions: 1. 2. 3. 4. Carefully cut the tape that seals the top flap of the shipping carton. Remove the computer and the accessories carton from the main shipping carton. Remove all protective coverings from the computer. Open the accessory box; remove the contents.

Note: Save the two shipping containers and packaging for later reuse.

Installation 2-1

2.3 Installing Internal Notebook Options
If you have no internal options to install at this time, skip to Paragraph 2.4. Otherwise, continue with Paragraph 2.3.1.

2.3.1 Installing Main Memory Expansion (Optional)
Main memory on the 900 Series Notebooks can be expanded using an EDO Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module (EDO soDIMM). These modules are available in 8 MB, 16 MB, 32 MB, and 64 MB sizes and install in the expansion memory slot on the System Board accessed through the Memory Expansion Door on the bottom of the notebook. The installation process consists of the following steps:

Caution: The EDO soDIMM module option contains components that are sensitive to static electricity. When handling the module and the internal parts of the computer, protect against static electricity by using wrist or ankle grounding straps and grounded working mats. When moving or storing items, use the anti-static bags supplied with the items. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Ensure that the notebook is powered off and the AC adapter disconnected from the AC outlet. Also, ensure that all batteries are out of the unit. Disconnect any peripheral device interface cables from the external interface connectors and remove any installed PCMCIA options. Turn the notebook over and locate the Expansion Memory Access Cover on the bottom of the notebook. Remove the screw holding the Expansion Memory Access Cover and remove the cover. Remove the EDO soDIMM module from its shipping container. Refer to Figure 2-1. To install an soDIMM module, first align the connector edge of the memory module with the key in the connector. Insert the edge of the memory module board into the connector using a rocking motion to fully insert the module. Push downward on each side of the memory module until it snaps in place. Reinstall the Expansion Memory Access Cover using the screw removed in Step 4. Replace the batteries and AC adapter. Power up the notebook. If all of the installed memory is not recognized, try reseating the soDIMM module and rebooting.

7. 8. 9.

2-2 Installation

Expansion Memory Access Cover

Inserting soDIMM Memory Module

Figure 2-1 Memory Expansion Removal/Replacement

Note: After installing expansion memory in your notebook, you must run the PHDISK utility in order for the Save-To-Disk or 0V Suspend functions to operate correctly.

2.3.2 Setting up the Software
Note: If you are using an operating system other than Windows 95, Windows for Workgroups, or DOS, you may need to re-partition your hard disk drive to allow for the additional memory. Check with your system administrator.

Installation 2-3

In Windows 95
Follow these steps if your computer is running Windows 95. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. From the Taskbar, select Start then Shut Down. Select the Restart the Computer in MS-DOS mode. Click on Yes. Type PHDISK /C /F at the DOS prompt and press Enter. The DOS screen appears and shows the save file name and size. Press any key to reset the system. The computer will reboot.

In Windows for Workgroups
Follow these steps if your computer is running MS-DOS® and Windows for Workgroups. 1. 2. Close all applications and exit Windows for Workgroups to MS-DOS. At the command prompt (typically C:\) type PHDISK /C /F and press Enter. This will create a file which can be used to save the contents of your memory system when you perform a 0V Suspend operation.

2.3.3 Installing PCMCIA Options
The Notebook has two connector slots for PCMCIA option cards. These two slots can be used to install one Type III or two Type I/II credit card size PCMCIA option cards. You can install a PCMCIA (PC card) without turning the computer off. Use the following procedure to install a PCMCIA option: 1. 2. 3. Review the installation instructions supplied with the PCMCIA option card(s). Hold the card at the end opposite the connector pins with the label side up. Insert the card into an unused slot on the left side of the Notebook. If the option requires external cabling (e.g., modem option), connect external cabling at this time.

Note: After installation of a PCMCIA option card, Windows 95 displays the New Hardware Found dialog box to help you configure the new device. To remove a card, click on the PCMCIA icon; then, press the appropriate PC Card Release lever (or press both levers for a Type III device) and remove the option.

2-4 Installation

Figure 2-2 Installing PCMCIA Option Cards

Note: When installing a Zoomed Video option card, the card must be installed in the lower card slot (slot 0 or A). Other option cards can be installed in either card slot.

2.4 Installing External Notebook Options
2.4.1 Installing the Mobile Productivity Base (Option)
If using the Mobile Productivity Base option, install this accessory now. If not using the MPB at this time, proceed directly to Paragraph 2.4.2.

2.4.1.1 Docking the Notebook to the MPB
To dock the Notebook Computer into the MPB, use the following procedure: 1. 2. Turn the notebook over and open the expansion door (slide the door toward the center of the notebook) to expose the docking connector. Slide the lever release latch to the front of the MPB to release the docking lever (refer to Figure 2-3).

Installation 2-5

3. 4.

Swing the Docking Lever outward a full 90 degrees from the side of the MPB. Slide the notebook into the MPB, right side first, as shown in Figure 2-3. Ensure that the docking guides on both the notebook and the MPB are securely hooked. Rest the notebook on the MPB. Then press and hold the notebook against the MPB and swing the Docking Latch inward until the Lever Release Latch locks.

5.

1

Open the expansion door on bottom of notebook

2

Slide release latch on MPB forward; swing the docking level outward 90 degrees

3

Slide notebook into MPB, right side first; ensure docking guides are hooked

4

Press and hold down notebook and swing the dock lever in until the release latch locks

Figure 2-3 Docking the Notebook into the MPB

2.4.1.2 Cabling to the MPB
Refer to Figure 2-4 (MPB Port Assignments) and then connect all desktop devices to the MPB instead of directly to the notebook as described in Paragraphs 2.4.2 through 2.4.5.

2-6 Installation

Mic In Line In Line Out PS/2 Keyboard Port PS/2 Mouse Port Serial Port Parallel Port Advanced PCI

V A G Port

Figure 2-4 MPB Port Assignments

Installation 2-7

Battery Pack

Figure 2-5 MPB Battery Pack Removal/Installation Installation

2.4.2 Installing Ext. Keyboard/Mouse/Numeric Keypad
A PS/2 compatible Keyboard, mouse or an optional PS/2-compatible numeric keypad may be installed on the notebook via the mouse connector on the left rear port as shown in Figure 2-6.

Note: Refer to Figure 2-4 for port assignments if using the MPB option.

2-8 Installation

Figure 2-6 PS/2 Port Connections

2.4.3 Installing an External Parallel Printer
The Notebook is equipped with an external, bidirectional, ECC/EPP compatible, 25-pin parallel printer port. The connector pinouts and connector location are shown in Figure 2-7.

Note: Refer to Figure 2-4 for port assignments if using the MPB option.

Installation 2-9

PARALLEL PORT PINOUTS
SIGNAL 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 Strobe* Data Bit 0 Data Bit 1 Data Bit 2 Data Bit 3 Data Bit 4 Data Bit 5 Data Bit 6 Data Bit 7 Acknowledge* Busy Paper Out Select Auto Line Feed* Error* Initialize Printer* Select In* LPT 18 VCC PLP120 PLP121 PLP122 FDD 5V FDD 5V LP125 Ground SPP Mode STB* PD0 PD1 PD2 PD3 PD4 PD5 PD6 PD7 A * CK BUSY PE SLCT AFD* ERR* INIT* SLIN* LPT18 VCC PLP120 PLP121 PLP122 FDD 5V FDD 5V LP125 Ground

Note: * Denotes

Active Low

Figure 2-7 Parallel Port Pinouts

2.4.4 Installing an External Serial Port Device
The notebook contains an external RS-232 serial port with a 9-pin, male DB-9 connector as shown in Figure 2-10 (25-pin cables require the use of an adapter for use with the 9-pin port). The serial ports are used to interconnect such devices as:

External Modem Serial Mouse Serial Printer

2-10 Installation

Any device that uses an RS-232 interface
Note: Refer to Figure 2-4 for port assignments if using the MPB option.

Caution: Never connect a parallel device to a serial port or a serial device to a parallel port or video port; this may cause damage to the notebook and/or external device. If you are uncertain of what type connector the external device has, refer to the technical manual for the external device.

Figure 2-8 Serial Port Pinouts

2.4.5 Installing an External VGA Monitor
The notebook (and optional MPB) contain an external CRT port that can drive one of a variety of monitor resolutions and colors as summarized in Section 1. The associated connector location and pinouts for the notebook are shown in Figure 2-9.

Note: Refer to Figure 2-4 for port assignments if using the MPB option.

Installation 2-11

Figure 2-9 External VGA Pinouts Use the following procedure to install an external monitor: 1. 2. 3. 4. Turn off power to both the notebook and monitor. Connect the 15-pin external VGA cable from the monitor to the VGA connector on the notebook computer (Figure 2-9) or MPB (Figure 2-4). Power up the notebook computer first; then, turn on power to the monitor. Setup the notebook display mode for LCD only, simultaneous LCD and CRT or CRT only (under Windows 95, select the Change Display Utility; under

2-12 Installation

Windows for Workgroups, use the WinMode Utility). 5. Install the correct driver, if required (refer to the Monitor Installation Instructions supplied by the CRT vendor).

2.5 Primary Battery Pack Installation
1. 2. 3. Turn off the computer and disconnect the AC adapter if attached to the computer. Unlatch the end locks by pushing the endcaps outward with your thumbs. Align battery connector to connector on notebook and insert the battery pack into the battery compartment; then push the battery in completely until you feel the contacts engage. Relatch the battery locks on both ends of the battery.

4.

Unlock Battery Pack

Remove Battery from Front of Notebook

Flush If Battery Lock comes off, reinstall as shown Slide

Figure 2-10 Notebook Battery Removal/Replacement

2.6 Installing the AC Power Adapter
Use the following procedures to connect the AC adapter to the system:

Caution: Use only the AC adapter supplied with the computer; other adapters can damage the unit.

Installation 2-13

1.

Remove the AC adapter from the packaging. Connect the round coaxial connector supplied with the notebook to the DC IN power receptacle on the left rear of the notebook as shown in Figure 2-9. Connect the female side of the AC power cord to the AC adapter and connect the male end to a grounded AC outlet.

2.

DC-IN Connector AC Adapter

Figure 2-11 Installing the AC Adapter

2.7 Initial Software Load
After unpacking and setting up the notebook for the first time, you must perform an initial software load that takes approximately 30 minutes. Because of the way Windows 95 structures its files, stopping in the middle of the setup process can cause irreversible file damage.

2-14 Installation

Before starting the initial software load process, ensure that you have the following:

Extensa 900 User's Guide - Contains latest software installation instructions. AC Adapter/Access to AC power - Although the battery pack may have some
charge, it may be insufficient for the entire set up. Loss of power during setup can cause irreversible file damage.

Certificate of Authenticity - You will need to enter the number from your
Windows 95 Certificate of Authenticity during Windows 95 Setup. This certificate is part of the Windows 95 documentation kit. You need this number even if you are installing Windows for Workgroups.

Language - During initial setup you choose the following:
- Language for Windows displays - Language for keyboard installed

Printer type - As part of the Windows setup, you are prompted to choose a

printer. Microsoft® includes the files for many different printers. If you cannot find your printer in the list, you will need the floppy disk with the printer driver provided by the printer manufacturer. If you do not want to install a printer at this time, you can skip this part of the setup. Which operating system to load operating system to load, either Windows 95 or MS-DOS and Windows for Workgroups (DOS+WFW). This choice is final. You will not be able to change the operating system after installation is complete. For most users Windows 95 is the better choice. You might want to load DOS+WFW under the following circumstances. - Your corporation or workgroup may have guidelines that require use of DOS+WFW. Check with your manager to determine the policy at your company. - The software that controls your local area network may not be compatible with Windows 95. Check with your network administrator to determine whether Windows 95 is compatible. - Although most software that is compatible with DOS+WFW is also compatible with Windows 95, it is possible that the existing software you are using will not run in Windows 95. If you have a critical software application that you intend to copy to your new computer, check with the manufacturer of the software to determine whether your application is compatible with Windows 95.

Operating System Type - During initial setup you must choose which

2-15 Installation

3 Operating Instructions
3.1 Introduction
This section contains a summary of notebook operating procedures useful for maintenance operations. For additional detail, refer to the Extensa 900 Series Notebook Computer User's Guide supplied with the notebook.

3.2 Controls/Indicators
The operating controls and indicators for the 900 Series Notebooks are shown in Figure 3-1 and briefly described in the following paragraphs.

Disk Media Battery Charging Standby Mode Pwr/Batt Low Caps Lock Num Lock Power Switch

Figure 3-1 Operating Controls and Indicators

Operating Instructions 3-1

3.2.1 Power On/Off Switch
The notebook contains an alternate action power switch located center of the notebook near the status indicators as shown in Figure 3-1. The first time you press the power switch, power is turned on to the notebook. The next time you press the power switch, power is turned off.

3.2.2 Notebook LEDs
The notebook contains the following LED Indicators:

Disk Media Indicator Battery Charging Indicator Standby Mode Indicator Power On/ Battery Low (Blinking) Indicator Caps Lock Indicator Num Lock Indicator

3.2.3 LED Icons
Table 3-1 contains a listing and description of Extensa LED Icons: Table 3-1 LED Icon Descriptions
Icon Disk Media Indicator
Lights when the computer writes to or reads from the floppy disk drive, or reads from the CD-ROM drive.

Description

Battery Charging Indicator
Lights when a powered AC adapter connected to the computer is charging the battery. Flashes when there is a problem with the battery or the battery is not recognized by the smart charger. Turns off when there is no battery or the battery is fully charged.

3-2 Operating Instructions

Table 3-1 LED Icon Descriptions
Icon Description Standby Mode Indicator
Lights when the computer is in Standby mode. Flashes when the computer is in the 5V Suspend mode. The computer enters Standby Mode if the Standby hot key (Fn+F4) is pressed or the Standby Timeout parameter in Setup is enabled and expires. The computer enters 5V Suspend Mode if the Suspend hot key (Fn+F3) is pressed or the 5V Suspend Timeout parameter in Setup is enabled and expires or the display is closed.

Power/Battery-low Indicator
Lights when the computer is on and there is power to the computer. Flashes when the battery power is low. Connect a powered AC adapter to the computer as soon as possible.

Caps Lock Indicator
Lights when the caps lock function is toggled ON using the Caps Lock Key.

Num Lock Indicator

A

Lights when the embedded numeric keypad is toggled ON using the Num Lock hot key (Fn+F7). Refer to Using the Internal Numeric Keypad section in the Extensa 900 Series User's Guide for further details.

3.2.4 Keyboard Hot Key Sequences
Table 3-2 contains a summary of keyboard hot key sequences useful when performing maintenance operations. Table 3-2 Summary of Notebook Hot Key Sequences
Function
CMOS Setup Enter 0V Suspend Mode 5 Volt Suspend Enter Standby Mode Resume from Standby Mode Scroll Lock Numeric Lock Turn off the LCD backlight Turn on the LCD backlight Fn+F1 Fn+F2 Fn+F3 Fn+F4 Press any key Fn+F6 Fn+F7 Fn+F11 Press any key

Key Sequence

Operating Instructions 3-3

Table 3-2 Summary of Notebook Hot Key Sequences
Function
Alternate between display modes (LCD, Ext.l CRT or both) Decrease LCD screen brightness Increase LCD screen brightness Lighten LCD screen contrast Darken the LCD screen contrast Exit 0V Suspend Mode Toggle speaker output on/off Stop a command or application Resume a command or application Send the contents of the screen to the printer Sets the notebook to echo keystrokes to the printer; prints a line when you press Enter; continues until you press Ctrl+P Enable/disable the internal keypad Warm boot Start Display the application's context menu Fn+F12 Fn+Down Arrow Fn+Up Arrow Fn+Right Arrow Fn+Left Arrow Press Power switch Fn+End Ctrl+Pause Press any key Shift+PrtSc Ctrl+P Fn+T Ctrl+Alt+Del Windows logo key Application key

Key Sequence

Table 3-3 Hot Keys Available on Attached External keyboard
Function
System Setup 0V Suspend 5V Suspend LCD/CRT Toggle Speaker Toggle

Key Sequence
Ctrl+Alt+F1 Ctrl+Alt+F2 Ctrl+Alt+F3 Ctrl+Alt+F12 Ctrl+Alt+S

3-4 Operating Instructions

3.2.4.1 Windows 95 Special Keys
Pressing the Windows Logo Key acts as the Start button. Pressing this key in combination with other keys performs special functions. Table 3-4 contains several examples of using the Windows 95 special keys. Table 3-4 Windows 95 Special Keys
Hot Key
Windows Logo Key+Tab Windows Logo Key+E Windows Logo Key+F Windows Logo Key+M Windows Logo Key+R

Function
Activates next Taskbar button Explore my Computer Find Document Minimize All Display Run dialog box

Pressing the Application Key displays the context menu for an application. This is the same as clicking the secondary (right) mouse button. Please refer to your Windows 95 manual for more information on these Windows 95specific keys and their functions.

3.2.4.2 DOS Special Keys
Table 3-5 contains a list of the DOS special keys. Table 3-5 DOS Special Keys
Hot Key
Ctrl+Pause

Function
Stops a command or application; primarily used to stop the screen from scrolling; pressing any other key resumes the execution of the command or application. Sends the contents of the screen to the printer port; prints only text characters unless you have run the Graphics.com utility to enable printing graphics. Terminates the current command or application. Sets the computer to echo keystrokes to the printer; prints a line when you press Enter; continues until you press Ctrl-P again. Terminates all programs, reloads MS-DOS and executes the Autoexec file; also called the "warm start" or "warm boot".

Shift+Prt Sc

Ctrl+Break Ctrl+P

Ctrl+Alt+Del

Operating Instructions 3-5

3.3 Configuring the Touchpad
You can personalize the control of the touchpad by configuring various settings using the Synaptics® Touchpad utility. Configure the touchpad using the Mouse utility located in the Control Panel Window. Follow these steps to configure the Touchpad: In Windows 95 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Select the Start button, then select Settings. Select Control Panel to display the Control Panel window. Double-click on the Synaptics Touchpad icon. Select the touchpad tab to customize the touchpad to your preference. Click on Enhancements to bring up additional features and to get to the online help for the Synaptics Touchpad drivers.

In Windows for Workgroups 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. From the Program Manager double-click on the Main program group. Double-click on the Control Panel icon. Double-click on the Synaptics Touchpad icon. Select the touchpad tab to customize the touchpad to your preference. Click on Help for the Synaptics Touchpad drivers online documentation.

3.4 Using a CD-ROM Drive (MPB Option Only)
An optional CD-ROM drive installed in the modular bay of a docked Mobile Productivity Base option provides fast access to text, programs, graphics, sound, animation and video on a standard CD. (With an optional MPEG PC Card installed, you can play back approximately 75 minutes of MPEG1-compressed, full-motion video from a CD.)

3.4.1 Inserting a CD (MPB Option Only)
1. 2. 3. 4. With the system powered up, press the eject button on the front of the CD-ROM drive to eject the disc tray. Slide out the disc tray. Place the CD, label side up, in the depression on the disc tray. Slide the disc tray into the drive.

3.4.2 Handling CDs (MPB Option Only)
Follow these guidelines to avoid damaging your CDs:

When removing a CD from its protective case or loading a CD into a drive, hold
the CD by its central hole and outer edge. Never touch the data surface (nonlabel side).

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To protect the CD against scratches and dirt when not in use, keep the CD in
its protective case.

Clean a CD with a clean, dry, lint-free cloth.

Always wipe from the center to the edge. Don't wipe the CD in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction.

Keep CDs away from high temperatures and direct sunlight.

3.5 Built-In Sound System
The Extensa 900 Series Notebook comes with an internal microphone and stereo speakers. These features give direct sound generation and recording capability in the system.

3.5.1 Turning Sound On/Off
To mute or restore sound, press the following keys:



Fn+PgUp:

Turns mute On/Off

3.5.2 Sound Software
The computer has pre-installed sound support utilities in the AudioRack32 group. These include:

AudioRackTM32 Audio Recorder

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3.5.3 External Sound Equipment
You can improve the quality of sound production and increase convenience by connecting external sound equipment. The computer has the following jacks for connecting to external sound equipment:

Microphone Input Stereo Headphone/Speaker Line Output Stereo Line Input

3.6 Using Remote Connections
The computer can send and receive e-mail, surf the Internet, connect to one of the online services or share files with other office employees. The Extensa communicates with the outside world in one of the following ways:

Over a telephone line using a PC Card modem installed in the computer Over a network using a network adapter
Note: You can purchase compatible modems and network adapters from your dealer or directly from Texas Instruments.

3.6.1 Using the Fast Infrared (FIR) Port
The FIR port, located on the rear of the computer, offers wireless communication with other Texas Instruments notebook computers or a variety of IRDATM-compliant devices. Without a physical connection, you can print remotely, transfer files between computers, use a remote mouse during a presentation or receive information from a PDA or pocket organizer. To transfer a file follow these steps: Align the FIR ports of the two devices making sure that the distance separating them is between six inches and three feet (one meter). After the devices are aligned, use the TranXitTM software, located in the TranXit group, to complete the communication process. (For further information, refer to the online TranXit Quick Reference Guide.)

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3.7 Using Zoomed Video Features
Your computer supports Zoomed Video (ZV) PC Cards through the PC Card slots. ZV PC Cards connect to the internal ZV port, allowing advanced multimedia capabilities such as video conferencing and on-screen television at full, smooth motion. The Zoomed Video port adds a dedicated video bus that provides a direct link between a PC Card and the VGA accelerator or audio DAC. This "detour" lets video and audio data bypass the PCI bus, reducing bandwidth impositions and improving system performance for more fluid audio and video.

3.7.1 MPEG PC Card
The optional MPEG PC Card uses the Zoomed Video port built into the computer to display MPEG video and audio on the computer. The MPEG card features MPEG-1 video playback with 16.7 million colors, MPEG-1 audio layers I and II, is MPC3 compliant and Windows 95 Plug and Play. With this option you can run full-motion video, combined with digital audio, graphics, text and data, enabling you to create far more effective presentations or play the most advanced video games.

3.8 Battery Saving Tips
There are a number of actions you can take to reduce the rate at which your computer depletes the battery. By taking some or all of these actions, you can substantially increase the time you can operate on battery power before recharging the battery:

Reducing screen brightness -- Although the screen controller uses new
technology to increase brightness without increasing energy consumption, the screen is still the largest single consumer of the battery charge. Reducing the brightness to the lowest acceptable level increases battery life. To reduce the brightness, press Fn+.

Caching the hard disk drive --- By caching the hard disk drive, you can reduce
the length of time the hard disk drive is rotating and using energy. Both Windows 95 and Windows for Workgroups use a disk-caching program by default. As long as you have not disabled these programs, you can take advantage of the battery savings.

3.8.1 Lowering Inactivity Timeouts
Inactivity timeouts turn off devices in the computer when you are not using them. Lowering the inactivity timeouts shortens the period of time the computer waits before turning off the device.

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3.8.2 Suspending Operation While Idle
Although the computer goes into Suspend mode automatically after a defined period of inactivity, you can reduce energy consumption even further by pressing either Fn+F3 (Suspend) or Fn+F4 (Standby) as soon as you no longer need the computer to be active.

Pressing Fn+F4 (Standby) turns off the screen. Pressing Fn+F3 (Suspend) turns off the screen, stops the hard disk drive, and
reduces energy usage to the lowest level possible without turning off the computer.

Pressing the Shift key resumes activity after the notebook has been in either
the Suspend or Standby modes.

3.8.3 Responding to a Low Battery Condition
When you are operating the computer on battery power and the charge remaining is down to between 10% and 20%, the battery-low indicator blinks and an audible alarm sounds. When this happens you should take the following actions to conserve battery power and reduce the possibility of data loss.



Saving files -- Save all open files frequently while the computer is in a low-battery condition. Turning off the alarm -- Turn off the audible alarm by pressing Fn+End (Mute). Reducing screen brightness -- Reduce screen brightness by pressing Fn+. Connecting the AC adapter -- If you have access to AC power, connect the computer to the AC adapter. You can do this without turning off the computer. Suspending operations -- Press Fn+F3 or Fn+F4 to put the computer into Suspend or Standby mode whenever you are not actively using the computer. Press the Shift key to bring the computer out of Suspend or Standby mode.

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3.8.4 Replacing the battery
If you have a spare, charged battery, you can do one of the following.

Insert a secondary battery into the MPB option (if installed). If you already have a battery in a docked MPB, you can replace the primary
battery without turning off the computer.

If you cannot insert the spare battery, suspend operations to disk by pressing
Fn+F2 and replace the battery. When you turn on the computer, the computer returns to the saved state.

3.8.5 Saving to Disk
When the battery power becomes critically low (less than 5% charge remaining), the computer saves the current state of the computer to disk and turns off. When you turn the computer on again, the computer restores the state that was saved to disk.

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4 Theory of Operation
4.1 Introduction
This section contains a general block diagram theory of operation description of the Extensa 900 Series Notebook Computers.

Note: Various internal components may change on future models and busses/bus speeds are