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STAR guidelines for energy efficiency. NEC is a registered trademark, Versa is a U.S. registered trademark, VersaGlide is a trademark, and UltraCare is a U.S. registered service mark of NEC Corporation, and/or one or more of its subsidiaries, used under license.
Contents Using This Guide Text Setup..........................x Related Documents.......................xi 1 Introducing Your NEC Versa Before You Begin.......................1-2 About Your NEC Versa FXi Notebook................1-3 Around the Front of the System..................1-4 LCD Panel ........................1-4 Base Unit ........................1-5 Power Button......................1-8 Keyboard Panel ......................1-8 Front Features......................1-11 Around the Back of the System ..................1-12...
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3 Using the BIOS Setup Utility Introducing BIOS Setup .....................3-2 Entering BIOS Setup ......................3-2 Pausing the Screen.......................3-2 BIOS Setup Main Menu ....................3-3 Looking at Screens ......................3-4 Using Keys ........................3-5 Checking/Setting System Parameters .................3-5 Resetting System Parameters..................3-6 Standard CMOS Setup ....................3-6 Advanced CMOS Setup ....................3-7 System Security Setup....................3-7 Password Protection ....................3-8...
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Connecting the External Floppy Diskette Drive............5-3 Disconnecting the External Floppy Diskette Drive .............5-4 External 24X CD-ROM Drive....................5-4 Using the CD-ROM Drive with your NEC Versa ............5-7 Using the CD-ROM Drive as a Stand-Alone CD Player..........5-9 Disconnecting the CD-ROM Drive ................5-9 CD Care........................5-10...
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6 Communicating with Your NEC Versa PC Cards..........................6-2 Type II Cards.......................6-2 Type II Extended Cards....................6-2 Type III Cards ......................6-2 Communication Cards ....................6-2 Storage Cards ......................6-3 Other Cards........................6-3 PC Card Slots ......................6-3 Inserting a PC Card .....................6-4 Removing a PC Card ....................6-4 Mini-PCI LAN........................6-5...
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MIDI Files ........................9-4 Video ..........................9-4 Using Digital Video Files....................9-4 Using Animation Files....................9-5 Multimedia Applications ....................9-5 10 Solving System Problems Problem Checklist......................10-2 Start-Up Problems ......................10-3 Post Error Messages ....................10-4 Beep Codes........................10-6 If You Need Assistance ....................10-7 11 Getting Service and Support Service and Support Contact Information ................11-2 NECC Web Site........................11-3 NECC FTP Site ........................11-3...
The NEC Versa FXi User's Guide gives you the information you need to maximize the use of your NEC Versa notebook computer. Read this guide to familiarize yourself with the NEC Versa and its features. For specific information see Chapter 1, “Introducing Your NEC Versa,” to acquaint yourself with system hardware.
Appendix C, “Frequently Asked Questions,” (FAQs) for a look at questions that users commonly ask and the answers to those questions. Text Setup To make this guide as easy to use as possible, text is set up as follows. Warnings, cautions, and notes have the following format: Warnings alert you to situations that could result in serious personal injury or loss of life.
See the following documents for additional information on your NEC Versa notebook computer: The NEC Versa FXi Quick Setup sheet helps get your system up and running. The NEC Versa FXi Quick Reference card provides an easy-to-carry reference to LED meanings, controls, function key combinations, and NECC help numbers.
Introducing Your NEC Versa Before You Begin About Your NEC Versa FXi Notebook Around the Front of the System Around the Back of the System Around the Left Side of the System Around the Right Side of the System Around the Bottom of the System...
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Appendix A, “Setting Up a Healthy Work Environment.” After completing the steps in the Quick Setup sheet that comes with your computer, your NEC Versa FXi notebook computer is ready to go! To get started, do the following: Read Appendix A, “Setting Up a Healthy Work Environment,”...
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About Your NEC Versa FXi Notebook The NEC Versa FXi notebook computer offers you a portable system filled with exciting resources for home, business, or travel. Standard features include a powerful ® Intel Pentium III 600-MHz with SpeedStep™ microprocessor or a 500-MHz Celeron microprocessor that works together with the latest Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) architecture.
Around the Front of the System The NEC Versa is compact with features on every side. First, look at the front of the NEC Versa. The following sections describe front features, beginning with the liquid crystal display (LCD) panel. LCD Panel Your NEC Versa FXi comes with a 12.1-inch color Thin Film Transistor (TFT),...
Base Unit The base unit of your NEC Versa offers the following features which are described after the figure. After extended use, the surface of the base unit, below the keyboard, may become hot to the touch. LCD panel and base unit A –...
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Internet Shortcut Key — Launches your dial-up networking connection (if not connected to a LAN) and Microsoft Internet Explorer. For details about configuring your Internet Connection and modifying the shortcut keys, see Chapter 6, “Communicating with Your NEC Versa.” Email/Internet keys A – Email Shortcut Key B –...
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B – Caps Lock D – Num Lock — Hard Disk Drive — lights when the NEC Versa writes data to or retrieves data from the internal hard disk drive. — Caps Lock — lights when Caps Lock is in effect.
— Hold the Power button in place for 4 or more seconds to power off the system (power override). Only use this option if you cannot power off your system using Start, Shut Down. Keyboard Panel The NEC Versa keyboard offers the following features, which are described after the figure. Keyboard A – Function Keys D –...
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Function keys are application-driven. See the specific application's user guide for information about how each function key works within the application you are using. The following function key combinations are preprogrammed for the NEC Versa FXi computer. — toggles between three video modes; LCD, CRT, or both (LCD and CRT).
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Typewriter keys — The typewriter keys (also called alphanumeric keys) are used to enter text and characters. Keys with blue printing on them behave differently when combined with control keys or the key. 1-10 Introducing Your NEC Versa...
Front Features The front features of your NEC Versa are described after the figure. Features on the front of the system A – Power Status LED D – IR Port B – Battery Charging LED E – Headphone Jack/External Speakers C –...
See Chapter 9, “Using Multimedia,” for details about recording. IR Port — Use this infrared (IR) port to transfer files between your NEC Versa and an IR-equipped desktop or notebook computer or to print to an IR-capable printer.
C – LAN Cable Jack RJ-11 Jack — Connects the internal modem to an analog telephone line. AC Power Port — Attaches the NEC Versa to a DC power source, such as the AC adapter or the optional DC auto adapter.
Around the Right Side of the System The right side of the NEC Versa offers the features, which are described after the figure. Right side features A – USB Ports C – USB Port B – CD/DVD Port D – Kensington Lock USB Ports —...
Around the Bottom of the System The bottom of the NEC Versa offers the following features, which are described after the figure. Bottom features A – Memory Module Bay D – Main Battery B – Battery Release Latch E – Vents C –...
Getting Started NEC VersaGlide Power Sources for Your NEC Versa AC Adapter Main Battery Pack System Batteries System Care...
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Your NEC Versa FXi notebook computer is equipped with the latest in touchpad technology! The NEC VersaGlide is an easy way to control the cursor with your finger. Lightly glide your finger across the NEC VersaGlide and the cursor follows. The NEC VersaGlide provides standard mouse functionality, plus more.
See Appendix A, “Setting Up a Healthy Work Environment,” for more information. Power Sources for Your NEC Versa The NEC Versa can be powered using three different sources, making it a truly portable system. Operate your NEC Versa just about anywhere using one of the following power...
AC Adapter Use the AC adapter and power cable that came with your NEC Versa to run your computer on alternating current (AC) power, or to recharge the battery pack. Use the AC adapter whenever a wall outlet is nearby.
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Do not cover or place objects on the AC adapter. Keeping the adapter clear of objects lets the adapter cool properly during use. Only use the AC adapter that comes with your NEC Versa FXi. Although other adapters look similar, using them can damage your system.
See the section “Windows 2000 Hibernate,” in Chapter 3, for details about enabling hibernate support. Main Battery Pack The NEC Versa comes with a rechargeable Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) battery pack that’s easy to install and remove. Standard Lithium-Ion Battery A –...
Determining Battery Status Your NEC Versa system provides tools to help you keep track of the main (and an optional) battery's power level. If your system is configured (default setting) to display the power icon on the taskbar, an electrical plug appears when the system is connected to an AC power source or a battery icon appears when the system is not connected to an AC power source.
Battery Handling Keep the following in mind when removing or replacing a battery. Use only the battery designed for your system in the NEC Versa. Mixing other manufacturers’ batteries, or using a combination of very old and new batteries can deteriorate battery and equipment performance.
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Slide the battery release latch toward the right side of the system and hold firmly. Locating the Battery bay release latch A – Lithium-Ion Battery B – Battery Release Latch Continue to hold the battery release latch as you slide the battery out of the system. Removing the battery A –...
Charging the Battery Charge the main (primary) battery and secondary (optional) battery by simply connecting your NEC Versa FXi system to an AC power source. To monitor the charging activity, observe the battery charging LED on the front of the system. The battery charging LED lights as follows: Lights amber when the primary battery is charging.
Battery Precautions To prevent accidental battery ignition, rupture, or explosion, adhere to the following precautions. There is a danger of explosion if the battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Discard used batteries according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Main Battery The standard Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) battery provides the main power source in your NEC Versa FXi computer. See Appendix B for a list of battery specifications. In addition to this battery, the CMOS battery and bridge battery also provide system power.
System Care The NEC Versa is a durable, dependable system built for extensive use and travel. Follow these guidelines to maintain the condition and performance of your computer. Immediately turn off and unplug the NEC Versa under the following conditions: The power cord is damaged or frayed.
Store the computer and AC adapter in an environment that meets the following conditions: If the temperature of the NEC Versa suddenly rises or falls (for example, when you move the system from a cold place to a warm place), vapor condenses inside the system.
Introducing BIOS Setup Your NEC Versa FXi computer comes with a hardware program called BIOS Setup that allows you to view and set system parameters. BIOS Setup also allows you to set password features that protect your system from unauthorized use.
BIOS Setup Main Menu After you press , the system displays the BIOS Setup Main Menu screen, similar to the following. BIOS Setup Main Menu Use the up and down arrow keys (located on the lower right corner of the keyboard) to toggle through the BIOS Setup menu items.
Looking at Screens BIOS setup screens have three areas as shown next. Advanced CMOS Setup Parameters — The left side of the screen. This area lists parameters and their current settings. Available Options and Help — The right side of the screen. This area lists alternate settings and Help text for each parameter.
Using Keys The following table lists the BIOS Setup keys and their functions. BIOS Setup Key Functions Function Moves the cursor between the displayed parameters. Fn-PgUp/ Toggles through the current parameter settings. Fn-PgDn For some parameter settings, moves the cursor between the subfields.
Boot Sector Virus Disabled Enabled Protection Date — Sets your NEC Versa's calendar month, day and year. The calendar clock is year 2000-compliant. These settings remain in memory even after you turn off system power. To set the date use the or arrow keys to move from field to field.
External Drive — Assigns devices to the external drive in your system. Boot Sector Virus Protection — Write protects the boot sector of the hard disk drive to avoid infection by some virus types. Advanced CMOS Setup Use the Advanced CMOS Setup to set the following functions. Advanced CMOS Setup Parameter Default Setting...
Internal HDD Password — Enables or disables the HDD password. Password Protection Your NEC Versa supports password security on several levels. Keep in mind that you must set the supervisor password before the BIOS Setup utility allows you to set a user password.
Hard disk drive (HDD) password protection restricts access to the drive, only if the drive is removed from your NEC Versa and installed in another system. You are not required to enter your hard disk drive passwords while the drive remains in your current system.
If the hard drive is installed in another NEC Versa system with hard disk drive security enabled, the password must be entered to allow access to the hard drive. If this NEC Versa system does not support hard disk drive security, you cannot access the data on the hard drive.
HDD passwords. Power Management Setup Your Versa FXi system ships with the Windows 2000 or Windows 98 operating system that uses the Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) to control most power management functions through the Power Management Properties screen in Windows.
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System Switch — Sets the Power button as a power switch or a sleep button. Power Management Under AC — Specifies whether to enable power management features when AC power is in use. When AC power is connected to your NEC Versa system, power management is usually disabled. If you enable this parameter, the system automatically activates the power management profile you set, even when AC power is used.
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Custom Timeout Options Option Definition Video Timeout Sets the time delay before your video powers off. Peripheral Timeout Sets the time delay before your peripherals are controlled by power management. Audio Device Sets the time delay before your audio device powers Timeout off.
Bootable device when set to IDE hard drive. Only one IDE device is allowed to be bootable. Quick Boot — Specifies whether the system performs all tests during system boot. Silent Boot — Specifies whether to display the NEC logo during the system boot. Boot Display Device — Specifies the display device(s) for system boot messages.
In the Windows 2000/98 environment, most device management is controlled through the Windows device manager. Use the Windows device manager to enable and disable devices on your NEC Versa FXi system. The Peripheral Setup menu displays the connection locations between the system and the Input/Output (I/O) ports and lets you specify different port assignments as needed.
Once refreshed, your battery is conditioned to recharge to its full capacity. To recharge the battery, connect your NEC Versa to AC power. This process may take up to four hours to complete.
Windows 2000 Power Options Properties In Windows 2000, most ACPI power management settings are controlled through Windows Power Options Properties, not through the BIOS Setup utility. To access Windows 2000 Power Options Properties, go to Start, Settings, Control Panel, and double click Power Options.
Critical battery alarm — Allows you to define a critical battery alarm percentage, notification, and system action. Run a program — Allows you to run a specific program when an alarm occurs. Windows 2000 Power Meter The Power Meter screen displays the remaining battery power and charging status for the primary and secondary batteries.
Control Panel. Note When powering on your NEC Versa running the Windows 2000 operating system, you may encounter a warning message suggesting that a problem exists with the hibernation file on your system. The warning message is inaccurate. To disable this message, simply follow the instructions in the previous paragraph to enable hibernate support.
Windows 98 Power Schemes Use the Power Schemes options to define the appropriate Power scheme for your system, and to set timeouts for standby, LCD panel, and hard disk. Define parameters for your system when running under AC (plugged in) or DC (running on batteries) power.
Windows 98 Alarms Use the Alarms screen to define the point at which the battery alarm activates. Define the alarm to either sound, display a warning message, or invoke Standby, Hibernate or Shutdown. Alarms Parameter Default Setting Alternate Setting(s) Low battery alarm 0 - 100% Alarm Action Notification Display message...
Windows 98 Advanced The Advanced window allows you to select behaviors for the taskbar icon, standby password, LCD panel, when closed, and the Power button. Advanced Parameter Default Setting Alternate Setting(s) Always show icon on checked unchecked taskbar Prompt for password unchecked checked when computer goes off...
Windows 2000/98 Power Management States ACPI uses different levels or states of power management. These power management states occur automatically, based on the system’s default settings, or manually, when invoked. Settings are configurable to occur while on battery power or AC power. The Windows 2000/98 ACPI power management states include: LCD timeout —...
Obtaining the BIOS Update If you are informed that the default BIOS needs an update contact NECC Support Services at (800) 632-4525, Fax (801) 981-3133, or access the web site, www.nec- computers.com to obtain a copy of the BIOS update.
The following list identifies each switch setting and its function. Switch 1, Password Override Switch — The default setting is “OFF.” If you forget your password and cannot access the data on your NEC Versa, change the setting to “ON” and your current password is erased.
Enabling the BIOS Flash Switch Before performing the BIOS update, be sure to enable the BIOS flash switch. Set switch 5 to “ON” before performing the BIOS update. Follow these steps to enable the BIOS flash switch. Make sure the system is powered off and that no peripheral devices are attached. Turn over the system and locate the memory module bay.
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Remove the screw and bay cover. Removing the screw and bay cover Locate the dip switch block. Using a fine-tipped object, change switch 5 to “ON” to enable the BIOS flash. Never use a pencil to change switch settings. Residue from the pencil can damage the system.
Remove the diskette and press any key to continue. The utility updates the BIOS. Power off your computer. The next time you power on your computer, you will have the latest NEC Versa FXi computer BIOS revision level. Using the BIOS Setup Utility 3-29...
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Power on your computer. A CMOS Checksum message appears and prompts you to press to enter Setup. Press to enter Setup and restore the default parameter settings. Be sure to modify any custom settings that you may have configured. Disable the BIOS flash switch. Change switch 5 back to “OFF” after completing the BIOS update.
Using the Operating System and Utilities Windows Introduction NEC Utilities SpeedStep Applet Application and Driver CD NEC Info Center Partition Magic Product Recovery CD...
LAN card for network access. Your NEC Versa comes with all the software you need to get started on the most popular services available today. For a fee, online services give you access to the Internet, email, the world wide web, travel information, news reports, and more.
If you are using this product outside of the United States or Canada, some online services may require a long-distance or international call. NEC Customize — Gives you the option to launch the Application and Driver CD. Internet Explorer — Provides your default internet program. Also access Internet Explorer under Start, Programs, Internet Explorer.
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Online Services — Includes setup icons for a variety of online services. Your NEC Versa comes with all the software you need to get started on the most popular services available today. For a fee, online services give you access to the Internet, email, the world wide web, travel information, news reports, and more.
Infrared Monitor — Allows you to enable, disable, and control the infrared communication on your notebook computer. NEC VersaGlide — Allows you to adjust your VersaGlide (mouse) properties. Also access NEC VersaGlide under Start, Settings, Control Panel, Mouse. Volume Control — Adjusts the volume and speaker balance when you play audio files.
NEC Info Center. External Drive Connect Utility — Use this option to take advantage of warm connecting the CD-ROM drive to your NEC Versa FXi computer. For details about the External Drive Connect utility, see Chapter 5, “Using the System Drives and Bays.”...
Power off your system and then power on. A file, large enough to accommodate your system’s memory is created on the hard disk drive. SpeedStep Applet Some processors that ship with the NEC Versa FXi notebook computer include the ® Intel SpeedStep technology that allows you to customize high-performance computing on your NEC Versa, optimizing processing speed and conserving battery life.
NEC Info Center are provided on the Application and Driver (A&D) CD that ships with your NEC Versa FXi system. Some of the drivers are already installed as part of your operating system environment. The additional software on the Application and Driver CD lets you take full advantage of your system resources.
To install the NEC Info Center simply follow the instructions, presented earlier in this chapter, for launching the A&D CD and installing the software. For the most current version of the NEC Versa FXi User’s Guide, periodically check the NECC web site at http://www.nec-computers.com/.
Visually create, format, shrink, expand, and move hard disk partitions in minutes. Your NEC Versa ships with an internal hard disk drive consisting of a single FAT 32 partition, drive C:. Use Partition Magic if you want to create multiple partitions and convert your hard disk drive to FAT 16 partitions.
The Product Recovery CD and Utility provides you with a number of choices. Move the cursor over each selection on the NEC Product Recovery Utility screen to display a description of the selection in the window at the right side of the screen.
Check the Product Recovery CD title and make sure that it is the correct CD for your NEC Versa computer and operating system. Power off your system before connecting the external CD-ROM drive to your NEC Versa. Put the CD into the CD-ROM drive tray, close the drive door, and power on your system.
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Choose your restore option carefully to prevent losing data and applications installed on your system. Read the Warning screen. A warning displays indicating that your hard disk is about to be erased. Select Continue to proceed to perform a Full Disk Drive restore. If you select Back, the recovery utility returns to the prior screen which has an exit option.
Check the Product Recovery CD title and make sure that it is the correct CD for your NEC Versa computer and operating system. Power off your system before connecting the external CD-ROM drive to your NEC Versa. Put the CD into the CD-ROM drive tray, close the drive door, and reboot your computer.
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Read the Warning screen. A warning displays indicating that drive C: (the primary drive/partition) is about to be erased and formatted. It may be necessary to reinstall software to the other drives (partitions) to reestablish Start Menu links and other configuration requirements stored on drive C:.
Using the System Drives and Bays External Floppy Diskette Drive External 24X CD-ROM Drive External Drive Connect Utility External CD Read/Write Drive Hard Disk Drive Memory Modules...
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The NEC Versa FXi ships with a standard 3.5-inch, 1.44-MB external floppy diskette drive and cable. Use the floppy diskette drive to install applications, create a BIOS update diskette, or simply copy files to and from your NEC Versa FXi notebook computer.
FDD/Parallel port on the left side of your system. Connecting the External Floppy Diskette Drive Follow these steps to connect the external floppy diskette drive to your NEC Versa FXi system. Locate the external floppy diskette drive and cable that ships with your system.
A – Release clips External 24X CD-ROM Drive Your NEC Versa FXi ships with an external 24X CD-ROM drive and cable that feature the latest in CD-ROM technology. Use the CD-ROM drive to load and start programs from a compact disc (CD). You can also use the CD-ROM drive to play your audio CDs.
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Status LED — Lights green when powered on or connected to the NEC Versa. Lights amber during data read operations. Do not eject the CD or turn off the NEC Versa when the indicator lights amber.
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Cable Connectors — Use either connector to attach the cable to the CD-ROM drive or to the CD-ROM port on the right side of your NEC Versa FXi system. 5-6 Using the System Drives and Bays...
NEC Versa FXi notebook computer. Note The first time that you connect the CD-ROM drive to your NEC Versa FXi system, the system must be powered off. Once you install the External Drive Connect Utility, use the utility to connect the CD-ROM drive to your system while the system is powered on.
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Slide the release latch toward the front of the unit to open the cover. Opening the CD-ROM drive cover A – Release Latch Put your CD, printed side up, into the circular impression in the drive. Inserting a CD Close the drive cover. Run the setup, installation program or other instructions provided with the software application to start or load the CD contents.
CD-ROM drive. Connect the outlet plug of the AC adapter to an active electrical wall outlet. Follow steps 4-6 in the procedure, “Using the CD-ROM drive with your NEC Versa,” to open the drive cover and insert a CD. Press the Play button to activate your audio CD!
CD-ROM drive cable A – CD-ROM Cable C – CD-ROM Cable Connectors B – Release Clips CD Care When handling CDs, keep the following guidelines in mind. Always pick up the disc by its edges. Avoid scratching or soiling the side of the disc that has no printing or writing on it. This is the data side of the disc.
External Drive Connect Utility The NEC Versa FXi supports warm connecting of the external 24X CD-ROM drive, (Windows 98, only) extending the power of Plug-and-Play technology on your system. This dynamic solution further increases the flexibility of your already versatile notebook computer.
External CD Read/Write Drive Your NEC Versa operates with an optional external CD-Read/Write drive with Easy CD Creator that features the latest in CD-ROM technology. Use the CD Read/Write drive to load and start programs from a compact disc (CD) or to play your audio CDs.
Hard Disk Drive Your NEC Versa FXi comes equipped with an internal fixed 2.5-inch, 9.5mm hard disk drive with a capacity of either 6.x, or 12.x GB, depending on your system configuration. When you power on your system for the first time, the hard disk drive contains the Windows operating system and some resident drivers and utilities.
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Follow these steps to install a memory module. Make sure that the system is powered off and that no peripheral devices are attached. Turn over the system and locate the memory module bay. Locating the memory module bay A – Memory Module Bay Cover B –...
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Remove the screw and bay cover. Removing the screw and bay cover Locate the connectors and alignment key on the SO-DIMM. SO-DIMM features A – Connectors B – Alignment Key Using the System Drives and Bays 5-15...
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Locate the SO-DIMM expansion port and proceed as follows: Hold the SO-DIMM at a 45 degree angle and align the SO-DIMM contacts with the socket in the system. Push the connector into the socket. Press down on the edge of the SO-DIMM opposite the contacts until the lock tabs on the sides snap into place, securing the module.
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Removing an installed SO-DIMM Note The system switches are also located in the memory module bay. Therefore, if you need to set any system switches, you might want to do so while the system is already disassembled. The system switches are defined in Chapter 3. Replace the memory module bay cover and screw.
PC Cards Your NEC Versa FXi system is equipped with two PC card slots that support both Type II and Type III PC cards. PC cards are all approximately the same size and vary only in thickness. All have a standard 68-pin connector.
Storage Cards When you insert a memory or storage card in an NEC notebook computer, it appears as a unique drive as long as the system has an available interrupt for the card. Other Cards Many other kinds of PC cards are available for notebook computers.
If all applications using the card are closed, services for that card are shut down. You receive a message saying that it is safe to remove the card. Press the button on the side of the PC card in the slot. 6-4 Communicating with Your NEC Versa...
Mini-PCI LAN Your NEC Versa FXi system may ship with an internal mini-PCI LAN that allows you to connect your system to a local area network. The internal LAN is a 10/100Base-TX interface that supports both Wake on LAN and Network Boot functions.
Follow these steps to connect an RJ-11 telephone cable to the internal modem. Locate the RJ-11 telephone cable that ships with your NEC Versa. Each end of the cable has an RJ-11 connector that plugs into a standard telephone outlet.
NEC Versa hard drive. Internet Connections Your NEC Versa FXi system is equipped with the Windows operating system to provide a fully-integrated internet experience. Use the Internet Connection Wizard on your desktop to configure your system for email and internet access. Sign up for a new account or configure your system to use an existing account.
Accessing the Internet Your NEC Versa FXi system is equipped with an Internet shortcut key, located just above the keyboard. The first time that you press the Internet shortcut key, the Internet Connection Wizard launches, allowing you to configure your system for internet access.
IR Port The IR (infrared communication) port on the front of your system lets your NEC Versa FXi computer communicate with other devices that also use infrared technology. The IR port is Infrared Data Association (IrDA) compatible. You can easily transfer files between your NEC Versa and an IR-equipped desktop, or print to an IR-equipped printer without using cables.
Enabling/Disabling the IR Port in Windows 2000 The IR port on your NEC Versa FXi ships set to Auto. An icon appears on the taskbar and provides access to the system’s infrared utility. If for any reason you want to enabale (or disable) the IR port to reassign system resources, refer to the following procedure.
Carry the AT&T’s Worldwide Calling Guide. (For more information, see the section later in this chapter, “Using Your Modem.”) Packing for Travel The following are what you should take with you when you travel with your NEC Versa. Extra fully charged batteries...
The United States, Canada, and most of Central and South America use 120-volt alternating current (AC). Most other countries of the world use 240-volt AC. The NEC Versa adapts to voltages ranging from 100 to 240 volts, 50 or 60-Hz.
Always check the phone line to determine whether or not it is digital vs. analog. NEVER use your modem with a digital phone line. The internal modem in your NEC Versa system has built-in protection that detects the presence of a digital phone line and displays a warning message to alert you.
Using Peripheral Devices External Monitor Parallel Devices External Audio Options USB Devices...
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External Monitor You can add a standard external monitor to your NEC Versa FXi system using a display signal cable (usually provided with the monitor). One end of the cable must have a 15-pin connector for the system. Follow these steps to connect an external monitor to your NEC Versa.
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Parallel Devices You can attach a parallel device to the FDD/Parallel port on the left side of your NEC Versa FXi system. To install a parallel device you need the cable with a female 25-pin connector that ships with your system and, for most parallel printers, a ®...
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Failure to squeeze the release clips may result in damage to the cable connectors. External Audio Options The NEC Versa comes equipped with built-in audio ports that let you record and play sound. Connect audio jacks, like a microphone, headphones, or external speakers to the audio ports as follows.
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USB Devices Your NEC Versa FXi system is equipped with three USB ports that increase your connectivity choices. The USB ports on the right side of your system allow you to connect up to 127 USB-equipped peripheral devices to your NEC Versa notebook computer.
CDs must be digitized before being recorded and stored on disk. You can make microphone level recordings on your NEC Versa FXi computer using the internal microphone or an external microphone plugged into the microphone jack on the front of the system.
Mixing With the Microsoft Sound Recorder on your NEC Versa, you can mix data from two separate wave files to create a new sound file. You can also mix the microphone volume to create soft background sounds to accompany a voice-over or another more prominent sound.
The NEC Versa FXi computer features a dazzling TFT, 16 million color, high- resolution display for sharp, effective visuals on the NEC Versa or on an external CRT monitor. The NEC Versa XGA or SVGA TFT display panels have a high resolution capability of 800 x 600 pixels.
Using Animation Files You can create a dynamic presentation using an animation application. Animation can illustrate a concept, drive home an important point, or command attention. Graphics animation can add punch to a presentation with an animated illustration, a flashing arrow, or a flying logo.
Solving System Problems Problem Checklist Start-Up Problems If You Need Assistance...
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Problem Checklist First check the items in the following list. If these items don't help, see the table that follows the list. Power is on to the computer. The electrical outlet to which your AC adapter is connected is working. Test the outlet by plugging in a lamp or other electrical device.
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Setup utility to set current system parameters. Note When the NEC Versa detects an error related to display devices, it cannot display on either the LCD or a CRT. The system warns you by beeping. Solving System Problems 10-3...
Post Error Messages The NEC Versa FXi computer has a built-in checking program that automatically tests its components when you turn the system power on. This diagnostic test is called the Power-On Self-Test (POST). If the system finds a problem during the POST, the system displays an error message or emits a series of beep signals.
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Post Error Messages Message Resolution CMOS Display Type The amount of memory on the system board is different Mismatch than the amount in CMOS RAM. Run Setup to reset the value. CMOS Time and Date Not Run Setup to set the time and date. Diskette Boot Failure The boot diskette is corrupt.
Post Error Messages Message Resolution Off Board Parity Error Parity error in an expansion slot. Contact your NECC service representative to be sure that the memory module is installed correctly. The error format is: OFF BOARD PARITY ERROR ADDR(HEX) = (XXXX) XXXX is the hex address where the error occurred.
Beep Codes Number of Error Description Beeps Processor Failure The CPU on the motherboard generated an error. Gate A20 Failure The keyboard controller may be bad. The BIOS cannot switch to protected mode. Processor Exception The CPU generated an exception Interrupt Error interrupt.
Getting Service and Support Service and Support Contact Information NECC Web Site NECC FTP Site NECC Support Services Email/Fax to Support Services...
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Not only do these services provide information about your NEC system, they can also be used to answer your questions and help solve any problems you may have with your system, should that ever be necessary.
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Reseller's area (password accessible). To access NECC's Home Page, enter the following Internet Uniform Resource Locator (URL) in your browser: http://www.nec-computers.com/ NECC FTP Site Use the Internet to access the NECC FTP (file transfer protocol) site to download various files (video drivers, BIOS updates, and Setup Disk files). The files are essentially the same files as on the NECC Web site and the NECC Bulletin Board System.
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Please have available your system's name, model number, serial number, and as much information as possible about your system's problem before calling. For outside the U.S. or Canada, please contact your local NEC office or dealer for the support and service available in your country.
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You should provide as much specific information about your questions as possible. Also, if you are sending a fax, please include your voice telephone number, fax number, model number and system serial number with the question. You will receive a response to your questions within one business day.
Setting Up a Healthy Work Environment Making Your Computer Work for You Arrange Your Equipment Adjust Your Chair Adjust Your Input Devices Adjust Your Screen or Monitor Vary Your Workday Pre-Existing Conditions and Psychosocial Factors...
Making Your Computer Work for You Computers are everywhere. More and more people sit at computers for longer periods of time. This appendix explains how to set up your computer to fit your physical needs. This information is based on ergonomics - the science of making the workplace fit the needs of the worker.
Arrange Your Equipment Arrange your equipment so that you can work in a natural and relaxed position. Place items that you use frequently within easy reach. Adjust your workstation setup to the proper height (as described in this appendix) by lowering the table or stand that holds your computer equipment or raising the seat height of your chair.
If you use a mouse, position it at the same height as the keyboard and next to the keyboard. Keep your wrists straight and use your entire arm when moving a mouse. Do not grasp the mouse tightly. Grasp the mouse lightly and loosely. Adjust the keyboard height so that your elbows are near your body and your forearms are parallel to the floor, with your forearms resting on either armrests or forearm supports, in the manner described previously.
Adjust the screen or external monitor's brightness and contrast controls to enhance readability. Use a document holder placed close to the screen or external monitor. Position whatever you are looking at most of the time (the screen or reference material) directly in front of you to minimize turning your head while you are typing.
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Contact a doctor if you experience pain, tenderness, swelling, burning, cramping, stiffness, throbbing, weakness, soreness, tingling and/or numbness in the hands, wrists, arms, shoulders, neck, back, and/or legs. This appendix was prepared in consultation with Dr. David Rempel of the University of California/San Francisco Ergonomics Program and Mr.
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Specifications System Components Memory Map Interrupt Controllers...
System Components The following system component specifications are standard except where noted. Note The components that ship with the system are subject to change without notice. System Processor 600-MHz with SpeedStep, Pentium III microprocessor or 500-MHz Celeron processor Architecture 64-bit Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) Random Access Memory Standard Main Memory —...
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LCD Panel The LCD panel varies, depending on the model. 12.1-inch or high resolution active matrix Thin Film Transistor (TFT), Extended Graphics Array (XGA) color display — Resolution — 800 x 600 — Colors — 16 Million, max. 12.1-inch or high resolution active matrix Thin Film Transistor (TFT), Super Video Graphics Array (SVGA) color display —...
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Drive height — 9.5 mm Read/write track-to-track seek rate — 3 ms Average seek time — 12 ms – 14 ms Revolutions per minute — 4200 Data transfer rate — 16.6 MB/sec (PIO mode4/DMA mode2) — 66.6 MB/sec (ultra DMA mode 4) 24X-speed CD-ROM Drive Type —...
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Mini-PCI LAN 10BASE-T and 100BASE-TX compatible IEEE 802.3 and IEEE 802.3u compliant 10/100 Mbps transmission rate 10/100M, LINK, and ACT diagnostic LEDs 56K Internal Modem V.90 data/V.17 fax soft, MMX optimized K56flex™ compatible SmartDAA™ technology V.80 synchronous access mode Power AC Adapter Input Voltage —...
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Dimensions Width — 10.6 in. (269 mm) Depth — 8.8 in. (224.5 mm) Height — 0.9 in. (24.5 mm) Weight 3.38 lb (1.54 kg) with the three-cell Lithium-Ion battery Recommended Environment Operation Temperature — 41°F to 95°F (5°C to 35°C) Relative Humidity —...
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. The following table shows the system's memory map. System Memory Map Memory Space Size Function 0000 0000h-0009 FFFFh...
INT from Controller 2 IRQ08 Real-time Clock IRQ09 Reserved for ACPI SCI IRQ10 PC Cardbus/LAN//Video/USB IRQ11 Available IRQ12 PS/2 Mouse/NEC VersaGlide IRQ13 Numeric Data Processor IRQ14 Hard Disk Controller 1 IRQ15 Not Used IRQ03 or IRQ04 Infrared Port IRQ04 or IRQ03...
How can a mouse and an external keyboard be connected to the notebook at the same time? The NEC Versa FXi is equipped with three USB ports that allow you to connect any combination of three USB devices, at the same time. If you purchase a USB mouse and a USB keyboard, simply plug each device into any of the USB ports on your system.
PC Cards In which slots do my PC cards go? Your PC cards can go into either slot if they are NEC-approved cards. Other software may not support the use of both slots. Type III cards only fit in the bottom slot (slot 0).
Why do certain PC cards cause my battery life to drop noticeably? Certain hard disk cards and wireless radio cards consume more power than others and can impact battery life. When not using any PC card, close all applications using the card and pop it part of the way out of the slot to save power. In Setup, I disabled or reconfigured peripheral devices (like the ports or sound), yet I am unable to use the freed IRQs or I/O address resources with my PC Cards?
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Enter. What type of diskette do I use in my diskette drive? Your NEC Versa FXi ships with an external 1.44-megabyte (MB) diskette drive that uses 3.5-inch high density (HD) diskettes. These diskettes are also called double-sided, high-density (DSHD) diskettes.
Booting What is the difference between a warm boot and a cold boot? A warm boot restarts the system while system power is on. A warm boot is also a software reset. A warm boot clears volatile system memory and reloads the operating system.
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What is the purpose of Suspend to RAM (Standby)? You can initiate full Suspend-to-RAM by accessing Start, Shut Down, Standby. This places the system in a deeper state of “sleep” and requires that you slide the Power button to the right to resume operation. Putting your system into Standby initiates the Standby power-saving mode and is a convenient way of conserving energy when you are going to be away from your system for a short period of time.
What is a time-out? A time-out is the amount of time your system or a particular component is inactive. Miscellaneous How do I set the time and date? You can change the time and date in Windows 2000/98 as follows. Double click the time in the lower right corner of the screen.
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Why do I get a message “Insufficient memory” when I run some games? I have 64 MB of memory. The “Insufficient memory” refers to the 640 kilobytes of (DOS) base memory. Since there are drivers being loaded at power on, the amount of memory can be lower than the game requires.
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I'm having a problem using the IR port. What can I do? Use the taskbar icon to enable the IR port. Next, enter the BIOS Setup Utility and access the Peripheral Setup menu and to verify that the IR serial port setting contains an available COM port and IRQ setting.
Glossary AC adapter A device that connects an NEC Versa notebook computer and an AC wall outlet to provide AC power for running the system and recharging the battery. A/D conversion The process of converting an analog signal into a digital signal.
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bits per second (bps) A unit of transmission. Also called baud rate. board Printed circuit board (PCB). Board on which computer components are soldered and thin wires are printed to connect the components. boot To start up a computer. See cold boot and warm boot. An electronic circuit within a computer used for transmitting data or electrical power from one device to another.
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A thin flexible platter coated with a magnetic material for storing information. diskette drive A magnetic drive that writes on and retrieves data from a diskette. DSTN Dualscan Super-Twisted Nematic. A type of technology used in some NEC Versa LCD screen displays. Glossary 3...
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A denser, faster CD that can hold video as well as audio and computer data. Short for digital versatile disk or digital video disk, this new type of CD-ROM holds a minimum of 4.7-GB (gigabytes), enough for a full-length movie. enhanced VGA A video interface that offers more colors or higher resolution than VGA.
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Technology that uses infrared waves to communicate data between the IR-equipped devices without the use of cables. The IR port on the NEC Versa is Infrared Data Association (IrDA) compatible. interface A connection that enables two devices to communicate.
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However, only software especially written to call MMX instructions — MMX-enabled software — can take advantage of the MMX instruction set. mode A method of operation; for example, the NEC Versa operates in either normal or power-saving modes. modem MOdulator-DEModulator. A device that links computers over a telephone line.
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nonvolatile memory Storage media that retains its data when system power is turned off. Nonvolatile memory in the Versa is a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) chip which is backed up by an internal battery. The backup battery preserves the clock/calendar data and system configuration parameters stored in CMOS.
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PC Cards A credit card sized peripheral interface standard for portable devices. Types of PC cards (also known as PCMCIA cards) currently offered by major vendors include fax/modems, LAN, storage cards, and wireless communications devices. peripheral Input or output device not under direct computer control. A printer is a peripheral device.
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reset The process of returning a device to zero or to an initial or arbitrarily selected condition. resolution The degree of screen image clarity. Video display resolution is determined by the number of pixels on the screen. Resolution is usually specified in pixels by scan lines, for example, 640 by 480.
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When sent to a television, s-video produces sharper images and superior color definition. Thin Film Transistor. A type of NEC Versa LCD color screen that supports 256 colors. Universal Serial Bus. This new external bus standard supports the connection of up to 127 peripheral devices, such as mice, modems, and keyboards.
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VersaGlide A small, touch-sensitive pad used as a pointing device on your NEC Versa notebook computer. With the VersaGlide, you can move your finger along the pad to move the cursor or simulate a mouse click by tapping the pad.
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zoomed video A direct high-speed connection between the video, audio, and graphics subsystems within the computer that provides the high-quality path required for smooth video playback or TV tuner transmission. Zoomed video technology allows data transfer directly between a PC card and VGA controller allowing notebook computers to connect via PC card to real-time multimedia devices such as video cameras.
Regulatory Statements The following regulatory statements include the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Radio Frequency Interference Statement, compliance statements for Canada and Europe, battery disposal and replacement information, and the Declaration of Conformity. FCC Statement for United States Only 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.
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Battery Replacement A lithium battery in some computers maintains system configuration information. In the event that the battery fails to maintain system configuration information, NEC recommends that you replace the battery. For battery replacement information, call your NECC dealer or NECC Support Services.
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15 Business Park Way Sacramento, CA 95828 declare that the product NEC Versa FXi is in conformity with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation of this product is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.