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Compaq Armada M300 Series of Personal Computers
Maintenance and Service Guide

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Armada M300 Series of Personal Computers

Notice
2000 Compaq Computer Corporation.
COMPAQ, the Compaq logo, and ARMADA Registered in U. S. Patent and Trademark Office Microsoft, Windows, Windows NT, are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. Intel and Pentium are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation in the United States and other countries. All other product names mentioned herein may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.

Compaq shall not be liable for technical or editorial errors or omissions contained herein. The information in this document is subject to change without notice and is provided "as is" without warranty of any kind. The entire risk arising out of the use of this information remains with the recipient. In no event shall Compaq be liable for any direct, consequential, incidental, special, punitive, or other damages whatsoever (including without limitation, damages for loss of business profits, business interruption, or loss of business information), even if Compaq has been advised of the possibility of such damages. The limited warranties for Compaq products are exclusively set forth in the documentation accompanying such products. Nothing herein should be construed as constituting a further or additional warranty.

MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE GUIDE
Compaq Armada M300 Series of Personal Computers
Second Edition February 2000 First Edition July 1999 Published in the U.S.A., U.K., Singapore, and Taiwan. Documentation Part Number 113732-002 Spare Part Number 158339-001

C ONTENTS
preface

USING THIS GUIDE ...........................................................................................................................................VII
chapter 1

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
1.1 Computer Features and Models......................................................................................................1-1 Models ...........................................................................................................................................1-2 Features .........................................................................................................................................1-4 Intelligent Manageability ..............................................................................................................1-5 Accessing the Web Agent.............................................................................................................1-5 Asset Management ........................................................................................................................1-5 Fault Management.........................................................................................................................1-6 Fault Management Alerts..............................................................................................................1-6 Security Management ...................................................................................................................1-6 Configuration Management ..........................................................................................................1-7 Managing Power ...........................................................................................................................1-7 Accessing Power Management.....................................................................................................1-7 Power Management Levels...........................................................................................................1-7 1.2 Computer External Components ....................................................................................................1-8 1.3 Design Overview.........................................................................................................................1-15 System Board ..............................................................................................................................1-15 chapter 2

TROUBLESHOOTING
2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 Preliminary Steps ............................................................................................................................2-2 Clearing Passwords.........................................................................................................................2-3 Power-On Self-Test (POST)...........................................................................................................2-3 POST Error Messages.....................................................................................................................2-4 Compaq Utilities .............................................................................................................................2-6 Troubleshooting Without Diagnostics ..........................................................................................2-12 Before Replacing Parts................................................................................................................2-12 Obtaining Update Information with Info messenger..................................................................2-12 Checklist for Solving Problems ..................................................................................................2-13

chapter 3

ILLUSTRATED PARTS CATALOG
3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 Serial Number Location..................................................................................................................3-1 Computer Major System Components ...........................................................................................3-2 Miscellaneous Plastic Kit Components..........................................................................................3-4 Mass Storage Devices.....................................................................................................................3-5 Miscellaneous..................................................................................................................................3-6

ContentsArmada M300 Maintenance and Service Guide iii

chapter 4

REMOVAL AND REPLACEMENT PRELIMINARIES
4.1 Tools Required................................................................................................................................1-1 4.2 Service Considerations....................................................................................................................1-1 Plastic Parts ...................................................................................................................................4-1 Cables and Connectors..................................................................................................................4-2 4.3 Preventing Damage to Removable Drives .....................................................................................1-2 4.4 Preventing Electrostatic Damage....................................................................................................1-3 Packaging and Transporting Precautions......................................................................................4-3 Workstation Precautions ...............................................................................................................4-4 Grounding Equipmemt amd Methods ..........................................................................................4-5 Electrostatic Voltage Levels and Protective Matherials...............................................................4-6 chapter 5

REMOVAL AND REPLACEMENT PROCEDURES
5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 5.5 5.6 Serial Number .................................................................................................................................5-1 Disassembly Reference Chart.........................................................................................................5-2 Disconnecting the Computer from the Mobile Expansion Unit ....................................................5-3 Disconnecting the Computer ..........................................................................................................5-4 Preparing the Computer for Disassembly ......................................................................................5-5 Battery Packs...................................................................................................................................5-6 Removing the Battery Pack...........................................................................................................5-6 Replacing the Battery Pack ...........................................................................................................5-7 5.7 Hard Drives .....................................................................................................................................5-8 Removing a Hard Drive ................................................................................................................5-8 Inserting a Hard Drive...................................................................................................................5-9 5.8 PC Cards ........................................................................................................................................5-10 Removing a PC Card...................................................................................................................5-11 Inserting a PC Card .....................................................................................................................5-12 5.9 Modem or Modem/NIC Card .......................................................................................................5-13 5.10 Real Time Clock (RTC) Battery.................................................................................................5-15 5.11 Keyboard .....................................................................................................................................5-16 5.12 Memory Expansion......................................................................................................................5-18 Removing the Memory Expansion Board ..................................................................................5-18 Installing the Memory Expansion Board....................................................................................5-19 5.13 Switch Cover...............................................................................................................................5-20 5.14 Display Assembly .......................................................................................................................5-22 5.15 Top Cover with TouchPad..........................................................................................................5-23 5.16 Voltage Converter Board............................................................................................................5-25 5.17 Modem Connector Board............................................................................................................5-26 5.18 PC Card Assembly......................................................................................................................5-28 5.19 System Board ..............................................................................................................................5-29

iv ContentsArmada M300 Maintenance and Service Guide

chapter 6

SPECIFICATIONS
6.1 Physical and Environmental ...........................................................................................................6-1 6.2 Display ............................................................................................................................................6-2 6.3 Hard Drive.......................................................................................................................................6-3 6.4 Diskette Drive .................................................................................................................................6-4 6.5 Li-Ion Battery Pack.........................................................................................................................6-4 6.6 CD-ROM Drive ..............................................................................................................................6-5 6.7 DVD-ROM Drive ...........................................................................................................................6-6 6.8 System Interrupts ............................................................................................................................6-7 6.9 System DMA...................................................................................................................................6-7 6.10 System I/O Addresses...................................................................................................................6-8 6.11 System Memory Map....................................................................................................................6-9 appendix A

CONNECTOR PIN ASSIGNMENTS ......................................................................................................................A-1
appendix B

POWER CORD SET REQUIREMENTS .................................................................................................................. B-1 INDEX ........................................................................................................................................................... I-1

ContentsArmada M300 Maintenance and Service Guide v

preface

U SING T HIS G UIDE
This Maintenance and Service Guide is a troubleshooting reference that can be used when servicing the Compaq Armada M300 Series of Personal Computers. Compaq Computer Corporation reserves the right to make changes to the Compaq Armada M300 Series of Personal Computers without notice.

Symbols
The following words and symbols mark special messages throughout this guide:
WARNING: Text set off in this manner indicates that failure to follow directions in the warning could result in bodily harm or loss of life. CAUTION: Text set off in this manner indicates that failure to follow directions in the caution could result in damage to equipment or loss of information.

!

IMPORTANT: Text set off in this manner presents clarifying information or specific instructions. NOTE: Text set off in this manner presents commentary, sidelights, or interesting points of information.

Technician Notes

!

WARNING: Only authorized technicians trained by Compaq should repair this equipment. All troubleshooting and repair procedures are detailed to allow only subassembly/module level repair. Because of the complexity of the individual boards and subassemblies, no one should attempt to make repairs at the component level or to make modifications to any printed wiring board. Improper repairs can create a safety hazard. Any indication of component replacement or printed wiring board modifications may void any warranty or exchange allowances. WARNING: The computer is designed to be electrically grounded. To ensure proper operation, plug the AC power cord into a properly grounded electrical outlet only. CAUTION: To properly ventilate the system, you must provide at least 3 inches (7.62 cm) of clearance on the left and right sides of the computer.

!

Preface

vii

Serial Number
When requesting information or ordering spare parts, provide the computer serial number. The serial number is on the bottom of the computer.

Locating Additional Information
In addition to this guide, the following documentation provides information for the computer:
s s s s s s s

Compaq Armada M300 Series of Personal Computers documentation set Microsoft Operating System Manual Compaq Service Training Guides Compaq Service Advisories and Bulletins Compaq QuickFind Compaq Service Quick Reference Guide Compaq Internet site at http://www.Compaq.com

Viii

Preface

chapter

1

P RODUCT D ESCRIPTION
1.1 Computer Features and Models
The Compaq Armada M300 Series of Personal Computers is an ultralight 3.1 to 3.3 pound (1.4 to 1.5 kg) computer (depending on configuration). It allows users high mobility, provides a full set of system ports, and when paired with the optional Mobile Expansion Unit (MEU), transforms into a full-function portable with enterprise docking capability.

Figure 1-1.

Compaq Armada M300 Personal Computer

Product Description

1-1

Models
The Armada M300 models are shown in Table 1-1. The computer model designation is composed of a group of characters that define each model's features.
Table 1-1 Models and Model Naming Convention Compaq Armada M300 Series of Personal Computers Key
A M 3 P3 500 T 1 X 12 0 M 128 58 N S F

1
Key

2 1 2 3 4 5-6

3

4

5-6

7-9

10

11

12

13-14

15

16

17-19

20-21

22

23

24

Description

Options

Brand designator Segment designator Series Blank Processor type Processor speed Panel type Panel size Panel resolution Hard drive size (in GB, 1-2 digits) Optical drive Integrated communication RAM (in MB, 2-3 digits) Operating system

A = Armada M = Mobility 3 = 300 P3 = Intel Pentium III processor with 256 KB cache 500 = 500 MHz T = TFT 1 = 11.x" X = XGA 12 = 12.0 GB 0 = none M = Mini PCI V.90 Modem 64 = 64 MB P2 = Intel Pentium II processor with 256 KB cache 450 = 450 MHz C = Intel Celeron processor with 128 KB cache 333 = 333 MHz

7-9 10 11 12 13-14 15 16 17-19 20-21

S = SVGA 6 = 6.4 GB C = NIC/modem combination

4 = 4.3 GB 0 = none

95 = Windows 95 98 = Windows 98 58 = Windows 95/98 dual install N = NAFTA P = TouchPad

N4 = Windows NT 4.0 N2 = Windows 2000 N4/N2 = Windows NT 4.0/2000 dual install

22 23 24

NAFTA Pointing device Security

1-2

Product Description

Table 1-2 Models and Model Naming Convention Compaq Armada M700 Series of Personal Computers
1 A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A 2 M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 4 5-6 P3 P3 P3 P3 P3 P3 P3 P3 C C C C C C P2 P2 P2 C C C P2 P2 P2 P2 P2 P2 C C C C C C 7-9 500 500 500 500 500 500 500 500 450 450 450 450 450 450 333 333 333 333 333 333 333 333 333 333 333 333 333 333 333 333 333 333 10 11 12 13-14 15 16 17-19 T T T T T T T T T T T T T T T T T T T T T T T T T T T T T T T T 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 X X S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S 12 12 12 12 12 12 6 12 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 4 4 4 6 6 6 6 6 6 4 4 4 4 4 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 C C 0 0 M M C C 0 0 M M C C C C C C C C O 0 0 M M M O 0 0 M M M 128 128 64 64 64 64 64 64 64 64 64 64 64 64 64 64 64 64 64 64 64 64 64 64 64 64 64 64 64 64 64 64 20-21 22 23 24 58 N4/N2 58 N4/N2 58 N4/N2 58 N4/N2 58 N4/N2 58 N4/N2 58 N4/N2 95 98 N4 95 98 N4 95 98 N4 95 98 N4 95 98 N4 95 98 N4 P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P SKU# 165288-XX2 165288-XX6 152547-XX2 152547-XX6 152548-XX2 152548-XX6 152549-XX2 152549-XX6 152544-XX2 152544-XX6 152545-XX2 152545-XX6 152546-XX2 152546-XX6 138594-XX2 138594-XX4 138594-XX6 138595-XX2 138595-XX4 138595-XX6 107008-XX2 107031-XX4 107051-XX6 107009-XX2 107032-XX4 107052-XX6 107061-XX2 107062-XX4 107067-XX6 124788-XX2 124789-XX4 124790-XX6

Product Description

1-3

Features
The computer has the following features:
n

n n

Intel Pentium III 500-MHz, Intel Pentium II 333-MHz, or Celeron 450- or 333-MHz processor, with 256-KB integrated L2 cache (Pentium III or II) or 128-KB integrated L2 cache (Celeron), depending on computer model ATI RAGE LT Pro, 4-MB SGRAM (synchronous graphics) Standard 64-MB high-performance synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), expandable to 512 MB Dual preinstall of Microsoft Windows 95 and Windows 98 or Windows NT Workstation 4.0 and Windows NT 2000 preinstalled* 11.3-inch XGA CTFT (1024 × 768) and 11.3-inch SVGA CTFT (800 × 600) displays with 16 million colors, depending on computer model Keyboard is 95 percent of full-size with TouchPad pointing device Full set of ports on system (serial, parallel, USB, Infrared, VGA) Mini PCI 56K V.90 modem, or optional Mini PCI V.90 plus 10/100 NIC combo card One Type II PC Card slot with support for both 32-bit CardBus and 16-bit PC Cards; zoomed video support External AC adapter with power cord Lithium ion (Li-ion) battery packs n Standard: 4 cell, 26 Watt hours (externally attaches to computer) n Optional: 6 cell, 40 Watt hours (externally attaches to computer) n Optional: MultiBay (for mobile expansion unit) High-capacity SMART hard drives, 12.0-, 6.4-, and 4.3-GB, with DriveLock security and Prefailure Warranty, depending on computer model Ultraportable form factor, 0.89 inch (2.3 cm) thin with weight starting at 3.1 lb. (1.4 kg), depending on configuration Standard external diskette drive (attaches to system through the parallel port or fits into the mobile expansion unit diskette drive bay) Optional Mobile Expansion Unit (MEU) conveniently adds: n Dedicated diskette drive bay n Flexible MultiBay that accommodates: 24X MAX CD-ROM drive or DVD-ROM drive, SuperDisk LS-120 drive, weight saver, second Li-Ion battery or secondary 6.4-GB hard drive n Additional ports: parallel, serial, audio in/out, VGA, USB, PS/2 (2), AC power in, CPU connector, docking connector n Stereo speakers providing Compaq PremierSound 16-bit stereo sound n Robust, common enterprise docking solution

n

n

n n n

n

n n

n

n

n

n

*

End user must make a one-time selection between Windows 95 and Windows 98. If end user desires rejected product(s) after selection is made, end user must acquire and pay for rejected product(s) separately.

1-4

Product Description

Intelligent Manageability
Intelligent Manageability consists of preinstalled software tools for the computer and Compaq servers that assist in tracking, troubleshooting, protecting, and maintaining the computer. It provides the following functions:
n n

n n

Asset Management: provides detailed configuration and diagnostic information. Fault Management: prevents, predicts, and alerts of impending hardware problems. Security Management: protects unauthorized access to data and components. Configuration Management: optimizes the computer by providing the latest drivers, utilities, and software, which are available on CD-ROM and the Compaq Web site at www.compaq.com/support/portables.

For further help with Intelligent Manageability, select Start à Compaq Information Center à Intelligent Manageability
NOTE:

Accessing the Web Agent
The computer may have a preinstalled Web Agent that allows computer configuration information to be viewed using Web technology. To access this feature, select Start à Compaq Information Center à Insight Web Management. If the computer does not have a preinstalled Web Agent, it can be downloaded from the Compaq Web site at www.compaq.com.

Asset Management
Asset Management enables component information to be retrieved when on the road or connected to the network. Asset Management also enables the network administrator to remotely retrieve information from any Compaq computer connected to the network. The information can be used to assist in tracking and maintaining the computer and its components. It provides the following information:
n

n

Inventory information--The network administrator can retrieve information about the computer over the network by using Compaq Insight Manager or any PC management tool provided by Compaq Solution Partners. Asset control information retrieved from the computer includes: n Manufacturer, model, and serial number of Compaq computers, monitors, hard drives, battery packs, memory boards, processor speeds, and operating systems n Asset tag n System board and ROM revision levels n BIOS settings Diagnostic information--Diagnostics for Windows includes information on hard drives, ports, video, sound, and other components. This application also allows the user to run multi-threaded tests on hardware components. If problems are found, recommendations are provided.

All of the above information can be viewed, printed, or saved.

Product Description

1-5

Fault Management
Fault Management features minimize downtime and data loss by monitoring system performance and generating the following alerts:
n

n

n n n

Hard drive alert--provides 72-hour advance warning of impending hard drive problems and can automatically start optional backup software. System temperature alert--reports overheating. As the system temperature rises, this feature first adjusts fan speed and other cooling components, then displays an alert, then shuts down the system. Battery pack alert--reports charging problems and battery pack failure. Monitor alert--diagnoses and displays external monitor operational problems. Memory alert--reports memory board configuration changes when a memory board is removed, added, or reconfigured. It also provides the previous and current configurations for comparison.

The alerts work with or without network connection. If the computer is not connected to the network, the network administrator cannot receive alerts from the computer.

Fault Management Alerts
Alerts can be enabled, disabled, and tested, and software can be set to back up information whenever a hard drive alert occurs.
n

n

n n

While the computer is connected to a network, alerts pop up on the computer display and are simultaneously reported to the network console. System temperature alert--reports overheating. As the system temperature rises, this feature first adjusts fan speed and other cooling components, then displays an alert, then shuts down the system. NOTE: A battery charging problem alert is reported only on the computer display. When the computer is not connected to a network, the user will receive a local alert. To set alerts, select the Intelligent Manageability icon in the system tray.

Security Management
Security Management features customize system security.
n

n n

n n

Power-On and Setup Passwords --prevent unauthorized access to information and computer configuration. DriveLock--prevents unauthorized access to hard drives. Device disabling--prevents unauthorized data transfer through modems, serial ports, parallel ports, and infrared ports on the computer and an optional docking station. QuickLock/QuickBlank--locks the keyboard and clears the screen. Ownership Tag--displays ownership information during system restart.

1-6

Product Description

Configuration Management
Configuration Management optimizes software upgrade and customer support procedures. Compaq provides support software to optimize the performance of the computer. This support software is accessible through a monthly CD-ROM subscription. Support software can also be downloaded from the Compaq Web site at www.compaq.com/support/ portables.

Managing Power
The computer comes with a collection of power management features that allow battery operating time to be extended and power to be conserved. Use power management to monitor most computer components such as the hard drive, processor, and display.

Accessing Power Management
n

n n

In Windows 95, select Start à Settings à Control Panel à Power to view or adjust settings in Power Properties. In Windows NT 4.0, select Compaq Power instead of Power In Windows 98, select Power Management.

Power Management Levels
To extend the life of batteries, use the Battery Conservation tab in Power Properties.
n

n n

If Windows 95 is running, select Start à Settings à Control Panel à Power to access Power Properties. In Windows NT 4.0, select Compaq Power instead of Power. In Windows 98, select Power Management.

The level of battery conservation or the selection of preset power management levels can be customized.

Product Description

1-7

1.2 Computer External Components
The external components on the top of the computer are shown in Figure 1-2 and described in Table 1-2.

Figure 1-2.

Top Components

1-8

Product Description

Table 1-3 Top Components
Item
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Component
Display switch Scroll lock light Caps lock light Num lock light Hard drive light Diskette drive light Internal microphone Suspend button Windows application key Battery light

Function
Turns off the computer display if the computer is closed while on. On: Scroll lock is on. On: Caps lock is on. On: Num lock is on and the embedded numeric keypad is enabled. On: The primary hard drive is being accessed. On: The external diskette drive is being accessed. Supports audio input when the display is open or closed. Initiates and exits Suspend.* When pressed with the Fn key, initiates Hibernation. Displays shortcut menu for item beneath mouse cursor. On: The battery pack is charging. Blinking: The battery pack, that is the only available power source, has reached a low-battery condition.

11

Power/suspend light

On: Power is turned on. Off: Power is turned off. Blinking: Computer is in Suspend.* NOTE: The power/suspend light also blinks if a battery pack that is the only source of power available to the computer reaches a critical low-battery condition while Hibernation is disabled.

12 13 14 15

Right mouse button Left mouse button TouchPad Microsoft logo key

Functions like the right click button of an external mouse. Functions like the left-click button of an external mouse. Used with the TouchPad to drag and highlight. Moves the mouse cursor, selects, and activates. Displays Windows Start menu.

*In Windows 98 the term Standby replaces the term Suspend.
In

Windows 98 the term sleep button replaces the term suspend button.

Product Description

1-9

The external components on the left side of the computer are shown in Figure 1-3 and are described in Table 1-3.

Figure 1-3.

Left Side Components

Table 1-4 Left Side Components
Item
1

Component
RJ-45 jack*

Function
Connects the network cable. NOTE: A network cable is included with network models. Internal modem/NIC models only

2 3 4 5 6

Power connector Power button Vents Security cable slot Hard drive bay

Connects the AC power adapter. Turns the computer on or off or exits S uspend. Cools internal components. Attaches an optional security cable to the computer. Holds primary hard drive.

!

WARNING: To reduce the risk of electric shock, fire, or damage to the equipment, do not plug a telephone cable into the Ethernet RJ-45 jack.

1-10

Product Description

The external components on the right side of the computer are shown in Figure 1-4 and are described in Table 1-4.

Figure 1-4.

Right Side Components

Table 1-5 Right Side Components
Item
1 2 3 4

Component
PC Card slot Air intake vents Air exhaust vents

Function
Supports 32-bit (CardBus) and 16-bit PC Cards. Cool internal components. Cool internal components.

RJ-11 jack (internal modem models Connects the modem cable to an internal modem. only) NOTE: A modem cable is included with internal modem models.

Product Description

1-11

The external components of the front of the computer are shown in Figure 1-5 and described in Table 1-5.

Figure 1-5. Front Components

Table 1-6 Front Components
Component
1 2 3 4 Display release latch Stereo speaker/headphone jack Microphone jack Power/suspend light

Function
Opens the computer. Connects stereo speakers, headphones, or headset audio. Connects a single sound channel microphone. On: Power is turned on. Off: Power is turned off. Blinking: Computer is in Suspend. NOTE: The power/suspend light also blinks if a battery pack that is the only source of power available to the computer reaches a critical low-battery condition while Hibernation is disabled.

5

Battery light

On: A battery pack is charging. Blinking: A battery pack that is the only available power source has reached a low-battery condition.

1-12

Product Description

The external components on the rear of the computer are shown in Figure 1-6 and described in Table 1-6.

Figure 1-6.

Rear Components

Table 1-7 Rear Components
Item
1 2 3 4 5 6

Component
USB connector Serial connector Parallel connector External monitor connector Infrared port Battery pack

Function
Connects USB devices Connects a serial device Connects a parallel device Connects an external monitor, overhead projector, or TV adapter. Links to another IrDA -compliant device for wireless communication. Provides power to the computer.

Product Description

1-13

The external components on the bottom of the computer are shown in Figure 1-7 and are described in Table 1-7

Figure 1-7.

Bottom Components

Table 1-8 Bottom Components
Item
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Component
Battery latches Real-time clock battery Serial number Fan Speaker Modem compartment docking connector Hard drive security screw Hard drive bezel

Function
Release the primary battery pack. Provides battery power to automatically display the date and time. Numerical identification for the computer. Cools the computer. Produces sound. Provides access to the internal modem (modem models only). Connects the computer to a docking base. Secures hard drive in computer hard drive bay. Releases a hard drive from the hard drive bay.

1-14

Product Description

1.3 Design Overview
This section presents a design overview of key parts and features of the computer. Refer to Chapter 3 for the illustrated parts catalog and Chapter 5 for removal and replacement procedures.

System Board
The system board provides the following device connections:
n n n n n n n n n

Memory expansion board Hard drive Display Keyboard/Touchpad pointing device Audio Pentium II/Celeron processor Fan PC Cards Modem

The computer is equipped with an Intel Pentium III 500-MHz, Intel Pentium II 333-MHz, or Celeron 450- or 333-MHz processor. For ventilation, an electrical fan is installed. The fan is controlled by a temperature sensor. The fan is designed to turn on automatically when high temperature conditions exist. These conditions are affected by high external temperatures, system power consumption, power management/battery conservation configurations, battery fast charging, and software applications. Exhaust air is displaced through the ventilation grill located on the right side of the computer.
CAUTION: To properly ventilate the computer, allow at least a 3-inch (7.6 cm) clearance on the left and right sides of the computer.

Product Description

1-15

chapter

2

T ROUBLESHOOTING
Follow these basic steps when beginning the troubleshooting process: 1. Complete the preliminary steps listed in Section 2.1. 2. Run the Power-On Self-Test (POST) as described in Section 2.3. 3. Run Computer Setup as described in Section 2.5. 4. If you are unable to run POST or if the problem persists after running POST, perform the recommended actions described in the diagnostic tables in Section 2.5. Follow these guidelines when troubleshooting:
s s

Complete the recommended actions in the order in which they are given. Repeat POST after each recommended action until the problem is resolved and the error message does not return. When the problem is resolved, stop performing the troubleshooting steps and do not complete the remaining recommended actions. Refer to Chapter 5 for recommended removal and replacement procedures. If the problem is intermittent, check the computer several times to verify that the problem is solved.

s

s s

The following table describes the troubleshooting actions:
If You Want To:
Check for POST error messages Perform any of the following: s Check the system configuration s Set the system power management parameters s Return the system to its original configuration s Check system configuration of installed devices

Then Run:
POST Computer Setup

Troubleshooting

2-1

2.1 Preliminary Steps
IMPORTANT: Use AC power when running POST or Computer Setup. A low battery condition could initiate Hibernation and interrupt the test. Before running POST, complete the following steps: 1. Obtain established passwords. If you must clear the passwords, go to Section 2.2. 2. Ensure that the battery pack is installed and the power cord is connected to the computer and plugged into an AC power source. 3. Turn on the computer. 4. If a power-on password has been established, type the password and press Enter. 5. Run Computer Setup (Section 2.5). If a Setup password has been established, type the password and press Enter. 6. Turn off the computer and all external devices. 7. Disconnect external devices that you do not want to test. If you want to use the printer to log error messages, leave it connected to the computer. NOTE: If a problem only occurs when an external device is connected to the computer, the problem could be with the external device or its cable. Isolate the problem by running POST with and without the external device connected. 8. Use Compaq Utilities and loopback plugs in the serial and parallel connectors if you plan to test these ports. Follow these steps to run Compaq Utilities: a. If you are running Compaq Utilities from the hard drive, turn on or restart the computer. Press F10 when the cursor appears in the upper-right corner of the screen. If you do not press F10 in time, restart the computer and try again. If you are running Compaq Utilities from diskette, insert the Compaq Utilities diskette in drive A. Turn on or restart the computer. b. Press Enter to accept OK. c. Select Prompted Diagnostics. d. After "Identifying System Hardware" completes, select Interactive Testing and follow the instructions on the screen.

2-2

Troubleshooting

2.2 Clearing Passwords
1. Turn off the computer. 2. Disconnect the computer (Section 5.4). 3. Remove the battery pack (Section 5.6). 4. Disconnect and remove the Real Time Clock (RTC) battery (Section 5.10). 5. Wait five minutes. 6. Reconnect the RTC battery. 7. Reconnect the AC Adapter. Do not reinstall the battery pack yet. 8. Turn on the computer. NOTE: Remember to set the date and time the next time the computer is turned on.

2.3 Power-On Self-Test (POST)
The Power-On Self-Test (POST) is a series of tests that run every time the computer is turned on. POST verifies that the system is configured and functioning properly. To run POST, complete the following steps: 1. Complete the preliminary steps (Section 2.1). 2. Turn on the computer. If POST does not detect any errors, the computer beeps once or twice to indicate that POST has run successfully. The computer boots from the hard drive or from a bootable diskette if one is installed in the diskette drive.

Troubleshooting

2-3

2.4 POST Error Messages
If the system is not functioning well enough to run POST, or if the display is not functioning well enough to show POST error messages, refer to the Troubleshooting tables in Section 2.6. If POST detects an error, one of the following events occurs:
s

A message with the prefix "WARNING" appears, informing you where the error occurred. The system pauses until you press F1 to continue. A message with the prefix "FATAL" appears, informing you where the error occurred. After the message, the system emits a series of beeps, then stops. The system emits a series of beeps, then stops.

s

s

Warning messages indicate that a potential problem, such as a system configuration error, exists. When F1 is pressed, the system should resume. You should be able to correct problems that produce WARNING messages. If you receive one of the error messages listed below, follow the recommended action.

Table 2-1 Warning Messages
Message
CMOS checksum invalid, run SCU CMOS failure, run SCU Diskette controller error

Description
CMOS RAM information has been corrupted. CMOS RAM has lost power. The diskette drive controller failed to respond to the recalibrate command.

Recommended Action
Run Computer Setup to reinitialize CMOS-RAM. Run Computer Setup to reinitialize CMOS-RAM. If there is no diskette drive in the system, run Computer Setup to properly configure the CMOS-RAM to show no diskette drive present. If the problem persists, or if a diskette drive is present, complete these steps until the problems is solved: 1. Check diskette drive connections. 2. Replace diskette drive. 3. Replace system board.

Diskette track 0 failed

The diskette drive cannot read track 0 of the diskette in the drive.

Try another diskette. If the problem persists, you may need to replace the diskette drive.
Continued

2-4

Troubleshooting

Table 2-1 Continued Message
Hard disk controller error

Description
The hard drive controller failed to respond to the reset command. The keyboard failed the selftest command.

Recommended Action
Check the drive parameters. Turn off the system and check all related connections. Replace the system board.

Keyboard controller failure Keyboard failure No interrupts from Timer 0 ROM at xxxx (LENGTH yyyy) with nonzero checksum (zz) Time/Date corrupt - run SCU

The keyboard failed to respond Replace the keyboard. If the problem to the RESET ID command. persists, replace the system board. The periodic timer interrupt is not occurring. An illegal adapter ROM was located at the specified address. Replace the system board. Check the external adapter (such as a video card) to determine if it is causing the conflict.

The time and date stored in the 1. Run Computer Setup. real time clock have been 2. If problems persists, replace corrupted, possibly by a power system board. loss. A failure or an error occurred 1. Run ScanDisk. when trying to access the hard 2. Check disk in DOS and drive. Windows 95.

Hard disk xx failure (or error)

Fatal errors emit a beep and may display a FATAL message. Fatal errors indicate severe problems, such as a hardware failure. Fatal errors do not allow the system to resume. Some of the Fatal error beep codes are listed at the end of this section.

Table 2-2 Fatal Error Messages
Message
CMOS RAM test failed DMA controller faulty

Description
A walking bit test of CMOS RAM location 0E (Hex) - 3F (Hex) failed. A sequential read/write of the transfer count and transfer address registers within the primary and secondary DMA controllers failed. A walking bit read/write of the 16 DMA controller page registers starting at location 80 Hex failed. A continuous read/write test of port 61h found that bit 4 (Refresh Detect) failed to toggle within an allotted amount of time. A sequential read/write of various Interrupt Controller registers failed. A checksum of the ROM BIOS does not match the byte value at F000:FFFF. RAM error occurred during memory test. 3 4

Beep code

Faulty DMA page registers

0

Faulty refresh circuits

1

Interrupt controller failed ROM checksum incorrect RAM error at location xxxx *Beep codes are defined in Table 2-3.

5 2 None

Troubleshooting

2-5

Table 2-3 Fatal Error Beep Codes
Beep Code
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Beep Sequence
S-S-S-P-S-S-L-P S-S-S-P-S-L-S-P S-S-S-P-S-L-L-P S-S-S-P-L-S-S-P S-S-S-P-L-S-L-P S-S-S-P-L-L-S-P S-S-S-P-L-L-L-P S-S-L-P-S-S-S-P S-S-L-P-S-S-L-P

Description
The DMA page registers are faulty. The refresh circuitry is faulty. The ROM checksum is incorrect. The CMOS RAM test failed. The DMA controller is faulty. The interrupt controller failed. The keyboard controller failed. Graphics adapter is faulty. Internal RAM is faulty.

Recommended Action
Replace system board.

Replace memory board or system board if memory on system board is faulty.

NOTE: S = Short, L = Long, P = Pause

2.5 Compaq Utilities
Compaq Utilities contain several functions that
s

Determine if various computer devices are recognized by the system and are operating properly. Provide information about the system once it is configured.

s

Compaq Utilities include the following programs:
s s

Computer Setup Compaq Diagnostics

To access Compaq Utilities: 1. Turn on or restart the computer by clicking StartÅShut DownÅRestart the computer. 2. Press F10 when the blinking cursor appears in the upper-right corner of the display. 3. Select a menu option.

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Troubleshooting

Selecting Computer Setup or Compaq Diagnostics for Windows
The computer features two system management utilities:
s

Computer Setup is a system information and configuration utility that can be used even when your operating system is not working or will not load. It includes custom settings that are not available in Windows. To configure a device in Windows NT 4.0, you must use Computer Setup.

s

Compaq Diagnostics for Windows is a system information and diagnostic utility that is used within the Windows operating system. Use Compaq Diagnostics for Windows to test system components and to display system information whenever possible. To configure a device in Windows 95 or 98 use the operating system itself. Windows 95 and 98 can be used to add and remove programs, and provide Wizards to ensure proper device drivers are installed. Diagnostics for Windows is NOT a configuration tool and might only test devices that are properly configured by the operating system.
NOTE: It is not necessary to configure a device connected to a USB connector on the computer or an optional docking base.

Using Computer Setup
All information and settings in Computer Setup are accessed from the File, Security, or Advanced menus.
NOTE: Your settings in Computer Setup are not affected by updating the system ROM.

To view information or change a setting in Computer Setup: 1. Turn on or restart the computer. When the blinking cursor appears in the upper-right corner of the screen, press F10.
s s s

To change the language, press F2. To view navigation information, press F1. To return to the Computer Setup menu from anywhere in Computer Setup, press Esc.

2. Select the File, Security, or Advanced menu. 3. To close Computer Setup and restart the computer
s

Select FileÅIgnore Changes and Exit, then press Enter. or Select FileÅSave Changes and Exit, then press Enter.

s

4. To confirm your choice, press F10.

Troubleshooting

2-7

File Menu
Begin here
System information

To do this
s View s View

identification information about the computer, docking base, and battery packs. specification information about the processor, memory and cache size, and ROM date and family.

Save to floppy Restore from floppy

Save system configuration to a diskette. Restore system configuration from a diskette. (The diskette contains your personal configuration, so you should restore from the diskette before using the System Recovery CD-ROM.) Replace configuration settings in Computer Setup with factory default settings. (Identification information is retained.) Cancel changes entered during the current Computer Setup session, then exit and restart the computer. Save changes, then exit and restart the computer.

Restore defaults

Ignore changes and exit

Save changes and exit

Security Menu
Begin here
Setup password Power-On password Password options

To do this
Enter, change, or delete a setup password. Enter, change, or delete a power-on password. Enable/disable:
s QuickLock/QuickBlank s Lock

keyboard and touchpad at startup.

(These features can be enabled only when a power-on password is set.) DriveLock passwords Device security Enter, change, or delete a DriveLock password. Enable/disable
s Ports

or diskette drives. write. or diskette startup.

s Diskette s CD-ROM

NOTE: Settings for a DVD-ROM can be entered in the CD-ROM field. System IDs Enter identification numbers for the computer, a docking base, and battery packs.

2-8

Troubleshooting

Advanced Menu
Begin here
Language (or press F2) Boot Options

To do this
Change the Computer Setup language. Enable/disable
s QuickBoot,

which starts the computer more quickly by eliminating some startup tests. (If you suspect a memory failure and want to test memory automatically during startup, you may want to disable QuickBoot.) MultiBoot, which enables you to set a startup sequence that can include any drives in the system. the embedded numeric keypad at startup.

Device Options

s Enable/disable s Enable/disable

multiple standard pointing devices at startup. When this feature is disabled, only one pointing device is activated at startup. USB legacy support for one USB mouse and one USB keyboard. (When USB legacy support is enabled, the keyboard and mouse work without a loaded USB driver.) an optional external monitor or overhead projector connected to a video card in a docking base as the primary device. (When the computer display is set as secondary, the computer must be shut down before undocking.) video-out mode to NTSC (default), NTSC-J, PAL, or PAL-M.

s Enable/disable

s Set

s Set

Change the parallel port mode to or from EPP, standard, bidirectional, or ECP.

Troubleshooting

2-9

Using Compaq Diagnostics for Windows
1. Access Compaq Diagnostics for Windows by selecting Start Å Settings Å Control Panel Å Compaq Diagnostics. 2. To select a category, choose one of two methods:
s s

Select the Categories menu, then select a category from the drop-down list. Select a category icon on the toolbar.

3. To run diagnostic tests a) Select the Test tab. b) In the scroll box, select the category or device you want to test. c) Select the Quick, Complete, or Custom test type. d) Select the Interactive or Unattended test mode. e) Select the Begin Testing button. f) View test information by selecting a report from the Status, Log, or Error tab. 4. To print the information or save it to a drive, select the File menu, then select Print or Save As. 5. To exit, select the File menuÅExit.

Factory Default Settings
NOTE: Default settings that do not apply to the computer will appear in gray.

Table 2-4 Initialization
Enable POST Memory Test Keyboard Num Lock Hard drive boot sequence 1 2 3 4 Boot display Language Hard drive in the computer MultiBay Hard drive in the computer hard drive bay Hard drive in the expansion base or convenience base half-height/MultiBay Hard drive in the expansion base or convenience base MultiBay Auto Language of country Checked (enabled) Unchecked (Off)

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Troubleshooting

Table 2-5 Ports
Serial port Infrared port Parallel port Ethernet port 3F8, IRQ4 2F8, IRQ9 378, IRQ7 300, IRQ11

Table 2-6 Power
Low Battery Warning Beep External Energy Saving Monitor Connected Power Management Enabled Conservation Level Level Definition High Suspend Time: 3 minutes Hibernation Timeout: Immediate Drive Timeout: 1 minute Screen Timeout: 1 minute Suspend Time: 5 minutes Hibernation Timeout: 1 hour Drive Timeout: 2 minutes Screen Timeout: 3 minutes Suspend Time: disabled Hibernation Timeout: low battery Drive Timeout: always on Screen Timeout: always on While operating on battery power High Checked (enabled) Unchecked (not connected)

Medium

Custom

Table 2-7 Security
Enable QuickLock/QuickBlank Enable Power-On Password Disable Serial/Infrared Ports Disable Parallel Port Disable PC Card Slots Setup Password Power-On Password Diskette Drives Disable Diskette Drives Disable Diskette Boot Unchecked (Enabled) Unchecked (Enabled) Unchecked (Disabled) Unchecked (Disabled) Unchecked (Enabled) Unchecked (Enabled) Unchecked (Enabled) Password blank Password blank

Troubleshooting

2-11

2.6 Troubleshooting Without Diagnostics
This section provides information about how to identify and correct some common hardware, memory, and software problems. It also explains several types of messages that may be displayed on the screen. Since symptoms can appear to be similar, carefully match the symptoms of the computer malfunction against the problem description in the Troubleshooting tables to avoid a misdiagnosis.

Before Replacing Parts
When troubleshooting a problem, check the following items for possible solutions before replacing parts:
s s s

Verify that cables are connected properly to the suspected defective parts. Verify that all required device drivers are installed. Verify that all printer drivers have been installed for each application.

Obtaining Update Information with Info Messenger
Compaq Info Messenger allows you to set a customized search of the Compaq Web site. By registering for this utility, you can stay up to date with software and hardware information specific to your system.
s

To access Compaq Info Messenger, go to www.compaq.com and select Info Messenger. To register, follow the instructions on the Info Messenger page. When your registration is complete, you can
s

s

Implement your customized search whenever you prefer from the Info Messenger page. Set Info Messenger to send you the information by email as it becomes available.

s

Info Messenger will also inform you if there are updates to the system ROM for your computer.

2-12

Troubleshooting

Checklist for Solving Problems
If you encounter a minor problem with the computer or software applications, go through the following checklist for possible solutions:
s

Is the computer connected to an external power source, or does it have a fully charged battery pack installed? Are all cables connected properly and securely? Did the diskette drive contain a nonbootable diskette when you turned on the computer? Are all the needed device drivers installed? Are printer drivers installed for each application?

s s

s s

If the problem appears related to a software application, check the documentation provided with the software.

Table 2-8 Solving Audio Problems
Problem
Computer does not beep after the Power-On Self-Test (POST).

Possible Cause
System beeps have been turned down.

Solution
Use the Fn+F5 hotkeys to turn up the system volume.
s Adjust s Adjust

Internal speaker does not produce Volume may be turned off or set too low. sound when an external audio source is connected to the stereo line-jack. Line input may not be connected properly. Headphones or speakers are connected to the stereo speaker/ headphone jack, which disables the internal speakers. Volume may be muted

the overall volume by pressing the Fn+F5 hotkeys.

the sliding mixer controls by double-clicking the speaker icon on the Windows taskbar. Check line input connection. Disconnect the head-phones or speakers to enable the internal speakers. Uncheck the mute box in the volume properties.
Continued

Troubleshooting

2-13

Table 2-8 Continued Problem
External microphone does not work.

Possible Cause
You are using the wrong type of microphone or microphone plug for the computer. The microphone may not be connected properly. Sound source not selected.

Solution
Check to see if you are using a monophonic electret condenser microphone with a 3.5-mm plug. Ensure that the micro-phone plug is properly connected to the mono microphone jack. Ensure that microphone is selected as the recording source in Control Panel Å Multimedia and that the recording level is adjusted. Check the game program's audio settings. Adjust the computer volume with the Fn+F5 hotkeys. s Adjust the overall volume with the Fn+F5 hotkeys.
s Use

No sound from headphones

Audio settings are not set correctly. Volume control on the computer is turned down. Volume or mixing controls set incorrectly.

the mixing features available by double-clicking the speaker icon on the Windows taskbar.

Sound source not selected.

Verify that the sound source is selected in Control Panel Å Multimedia.

The headphones are connected to Check the connection. the wrong jack. Volume too low or too loud Volume or mixing controls set incorrectly.
s Adjust

the overall volume with the Fn+F5 hotkeys. the battery pack with another fully charged battery pack. the mixing features available by double-clicking the speaker icon on the Windows taskbar.

s Replace

s Check

Table 2-9 Solving Battery/Battery Gauge Problems
Problem
Computer is beeping and battery power light is blinking

Possible Cause
Battery pack charge is low.

Solution
s Charge

the battery pack by connecting to an external power source. the battery pack with another fully charged battery. Hibernation or turn the computer off until AC power or a fully charged battery is available.

s Replace s Initiate

Computer battery charge light blinks to indicate low battery condition, but computer does not beep.

Volume turned down too low.

Turn up the volume using the Fn+F5 hotkeys.

Continued

2-14

Troubleshooting

Table 2-9 Continued Problem
Battery pack will not charge.

Possible Cause
Battery pack was exposed to temperature extremes. Battery pack is already charged. Battery pack has exceeded its useful life cycle.

Solution
Allow time for the battery pack to return to room temperature. No action required. Use a different battery pack.

Computer shut down and Hibernation was not initiated Work is lost. memory was lost when replacing before removing the battery pack. the battery pack. Battery charge does not last very Battery is exposed to higher long. temperatures. Battery is exposed to extremely cold temperatures. Put the computer in a cooler place and recharge the battery pack. Put the computer in a warmer place and recharge the battery pack. NOTE: The recommended operating temperature range for the battery is from 10°C to 40°C (50°F to 104°F). The recommended storage temperature range for the battery is from 0°C to 30°C (32°F to 86°F). Battery conservation is disabled or Reset the battery conservation level. set to drain. An external device is draining the battery. Battery gauge may be inaccurate and require recalibration. Date and time must be set every The Real Time Clock battery has time computer is turned on. reached the end of its useful life. Turn off or remove any external device or PC Cards when not in use. Recalibrate the gauge.

s Restore

power, then turn on the computer with the power switch the Real Time Clock battery.

s Replace

Battery gauge seems inaccurate. The battery pack may need calibration. The battery pack has reached the end of its useful life. Battery pack is warm after charging. Warming occurs during charging.

Recalibrate the battery. Replace the battery pack. No action required.

Troubleshooting

2-15

Table 2-10 Solving Compact Disc and DVD-ROM Problems
Problem
Drive cannot read a disc

Possible Cause
Disc is not properly seated in the drive. Disc is loaded in the loading tray upside down. Disc has a scratch on its surface.

Solution
Open the loading tray, insert the disc, then close the tray. Open the loading tray, turn over the disc (label facing up), then close the tray. Insert a different disc. If you are running a version of Windows that was pre-installed by Compaq, remove the drive from the MultiBay and reinsert it. If you are running a version of Windows that was not pre-installed by Compaq, turn off the computer. Then remove the drive from the MultiBay and reinsert it.

CD-ROM drive or DVD-ROM drive is not detected by the computer.

Drive is not connected properly.

Table 2-11 Solving Diskette Drive/SuperDisk LS-120 Drive Problems
Problem
Drive cannot write to a diskette.

Possible Cause
Diskette is not formatted.

Solution
Format the diskette: If you are using Windows 95 or Windows 98: 1. From the Windows desktop, select My Computer. 2. Select 3.5-in. Floppy (A). 3. Select File, then Format. 4. Fill in the appropriate information, then select Start. If you are using Windows NT 4.0, format the diskette by entering format a: at the system prompt. Use another diskette that is not writeprotected or disable the write-protect feature. Check the drive letter in your path statement. Save the information to another diskette. Enable the proper drive through Device Manager. Run Computer Setup. Select the Storage icon. Make sure Disable diskette write ability is not checked.
Continued

Diskette is write-protected.

Writing to the wrong drive. Not enough space is left on the diskette. Drive is disabled. Disable diskette write ability is turned on.

2-16

Troubleshooting

Table 2-11 Continued Problem
System cannot start up from diskette or SuperDisk LS-120 drive.

Possible Cause
A bootable diskette is not in the drive. Diskette bootability is disabled in Computer Setup.

Solution
Verify that a diskette with the necessary system files is in the drive. Enable diskette bootability in Computer Setup, Security menu.

Table 2-12 Solving Hard Drive Problems
Problem
Accessing information on the hard drive is much slower than usual.

Possible Cause
Hard drive entered low power state due to timeout and is now exiting from it. Hard drive is fragmented/not optimized or has errors.

Solution
Wait for the system to restore the previously saved data to its state prior to initiating a low power state. Run ScanDisk and Disk Defragmenter. Turn off and unplug the computer, remove the hard drive, and reinsert the hard drive.

Hard drive does not work.

Hard drive is not seated properly.

Errors occur after starting from an additional hard drive. System does not recognize a hard drive.

Additional hard drive has not been Boot from the original hard drive or a specially prepared with necessary specially prepared hard drive. software. The drive is not seated properly. The drive is damaged. The drive was inserted while system was on or in Suspend or Hibernation. Remove, then reinsert the drive. Run ScanDisk on the drive. Shut down the computer before inserting removing a hard drive. Completely turn off the computer. Turn the computer back on, then run Computer Setup by pressing F10 when the blinking cursor light appears upper-right on the screen.

DriveLock settings cannot be accessed in Computer Setup.

The DriveLock settings are accessible only when you enter Computer Setup by turning on (not restarting) the computer.

Troubleshooting

2-17

Table 2-13 Solving Infrared Problems
Problem
Cannot communicate with another computer.

Possible Cause
The appropriate software is not running on both computers.

Solution
Install the appropriate software on the second device, start the second device, and start the program on both computers. Communication between infrared devices must use the same communications protocol. Check the manufacturer's instructions for connecting with infrared devices or try connecting with a device you know to be IrDA-compliant. Remove the obstruction, align the infrared ports to within 30 degrees, and position computers within 1.5 feet (about 0.5 meter) of each other.

The other computer does not have an IrDA-compliant infrared port. Your Compaq computer uses the IrDA communications protocol.

The pathway between the infrared ports is obstructed, one port is more than 30 degrees (plus or minus 15 degrees off the center line) from the other, or the ports are more than one meter apart.

There is an interrupt request (IRQ) Check for IRQ conflicts in the Device conflict. Manager If two devices have the same IRQ address, reassign one of the devices. There is a baud rate conflict. There is a conflict with the # bits. There is a stop byte conflict. There is a parity conflict. Cannot transmit data. Direct sunlight, fluorescent light, or flashing incandescent light is close to the infrared connections. There is interference from other wireless devices. Select the same baud rate for both computers. Select the same # bits setting for both computers. Select the same stop byte for both computers. Select the same parity setting for both computers. Remove the interfering light source(s).

Keep remote control units such as wireless headphones and other audio devices away from the infrared connections. Do not place objects that will interfere with a line-of-sight data transmission between the two units. Do not move either unit during data transmission. Adjust the devices so that they point directly at each other. Verify that devices are not more than 1.5 feet (0.5 meter) apart.
Continued

There is a physical obstruction in the way. One of the units was moved during data transmission. The orientation of the units is wrong. The distance between the units is too great.

2-18

Troubleshooting

Table 2-13 Continued Problem
Infrared port doesn't work.

Possible Cause
Direct sunlight, fluorescent light, or flashing incandescent light is close to the infrared connections. There is interference from other wireless devices.

Solution
Remove the interfering light source(s).

Keep remote control units such as wireless headphones and other audio devices away from the infrared connections. Run IR configuration utility in Control Panel.

IR has been disabled.

Table 2-14 Solving Keyboard Problems
Problem
Screen is blank and keyboard is working.

Possible Cause
A screen