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Extensa 500 Notebook
Service Guide

Service Guide files and updates are available on Acer Intranet and CSD database on Lotus Notes. For more detailed information, please refer to Service CD kit.

Copyright
Copyright * 1996 by Acer Incorporated. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language or computer language, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, magnetic, optical, chemical, manual or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Acer Incorporated.

Disclaimer
Acer Incorporated makes no representations or warranties, either expressed or implied, with respect to the contents hereof and specifically disclaims any warranties of merchantability or fitness for any particular purpose. Any Acer Incorporated software described in this manual is sold or licensed "as is". Should the programs prove defective following their purchase, the buyer (and not Acer Incorporated, its distributor, or its dealer) assumes the entire cost of all necessary servicing, repair, and any incidental or consequential damages resulting from any defect in the software. Further, Acer Incorporated reserves the right to revise this publication and to make changes from time to time in the contents hereof without obligation of Acer Incorporated to notify any person of such revision or changes.

Acer is a registered trademark of Acer Incorporated. Intel is a registered trademark of Intel Corporation. Pentium is a trademark of Intel Corporation. Other brand and product names are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective holders.

PART No: 49.42B02.001....................................................PRINT IN TAIWAN DOC No: SG281-9807A

Table of Contents
Chapter 1 System Introduction
11 11 12 12 17 17 17 18 18 19 19 20 20 21 21 21 21 22 22 23 23 23 24 24 24 25 26 26 27 27 28 30 30 33 Basic Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Special Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hardware Configuration and Specification . . . . . . . Memory Address Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Interrupt Channel Assignment . . . . . . . . . . . . DMA Channel Assignment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I/O Address Map. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Processor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BIOS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . System Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . DIMM Combinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Video Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cache Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Video . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Video Resolutions Modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Parallel Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Serial Port. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PCMCIA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Diskette Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hard Disk Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . CD-ROM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Battery Pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . DC-DC/Charger Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . LCD Inverter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . LCD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Power Adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Power Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Power Management Modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BIOS Setup Utility. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Chapter 2

Software Utilities
Basic System Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

4

Table of Contents

Table of Contents
Startup Configuration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Onboard Devices Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . 36 System Security. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Power Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Load Default Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 AFlash Utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Executing AFlash. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Quick Way to Execute AFlash . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 System Utility Diskette. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Set LCD Panel ID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Set Thermal Sensor Threshold . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 System Diagnostic Diskette. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Running PQA Diagnostics Program. . . . . . . . . 45 Diagnostic Program Error Code and Messages47

Chapter 3

Machine Disassembly

General Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Before You Begin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Connector Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Disassembly Procedure Flowchart . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Removing the Battery Pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Removing the DIMM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Removing the Modem Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Removing the Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Removing the LCD Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 Disassembling the LCD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Disassembling the Main Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Removing the HDD & PCMCIA Heat Sink. . . . 61 Removing the Hard Disk Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Removing the CPU Heat Sink and CPU Board62 Removing the RTC Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Disassembling the Upper Case . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Removing the Touchpad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Disassembling the Lower Case . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 Removing the CD-ROM/Diskette Drive Module66 Removing the Speakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Removing the DC-DC/Charger Board . . . . . . . 69 Removing the DC-DC/Charger Board . . . . . . . 70 Removing the System Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Extensa 500 Service Guide 5

Removing the PCMCIA slot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Removing the Modem Phone Jack. . . . . . . . . 71

Chapter 4

Troubleshooting
74 74 74 75 75 75 77 78 78 80 81 82 82 83 83 83 84 85 85 86 86 86

System Check Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Diskette Drive Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . CD-ROM Drive Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Keyboard or Auxiliary Input Device Check . . . Memory Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Power System Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Touchpad Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Error Symptom-to-FRU Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Error Messages List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . No-Beep Symptoms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . LCD-Related Symptoms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Indicator-Related Symptoms . . . . . . . . . . . . . Power-Related Symptoms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PCMCIA-Related Symptoms . . . . . . . . . . . . . Memory-Related Symptoms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Speaker-Related Symptoms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Power Management-Related Symptoms . . . . Peripheral-Related Symptoms . . . . . . . . . . . . Keyboard/Touchpad-Related Symptoms . . . . Intermittent Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Undetermined Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Modem-Related Symptoms . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Chapter 5

Connectors and Jumpers
SW1 Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90 SW2 Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90 Spare Parts List (P/N:91.45BXX.XXX) . . . . . . 91

Chapter 6

Spare Parts List
Model Number Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

6

Table of Contents

Appendix A Model Definitions Appendix B Compatibility Tested Components

Extensa 500 Service Guide

7

8

Table of Contents

Chapter 1

System Introduction
This computer was designed with the user in mind. Here are just a few of its many features: Performance
u u u

Intel Pentium® processor with MMXTM technology 512-KB, 64-bit main memory and external (L2) cache memory Large LCD display and PCI local bus video with 128-bit graphics acceleration Internal CD-ROM drive Internal 3.5-inch floppy drive High-capacity, Enhanced-IDE removable hard disk Nickel metal-hydride battery pack Heuristic power management system with standby and hibernation power saving modes

u u u u u

Multimedia
u

ISA-based 16-bit high-fidelity stereo audio with 3-D sound and wavetable synthesizer Built-in dual speakers "No power-on" audio CD playback Ultra-slim, high-speed CD-ROM drive

u u u

Connectivity
u u

High-speed fax/data modem port USB (Universal Serial Bus) port

Human-centric Design and Ergonomics
u u u u u

Lightweight and slim Sleek, smooth and stylish design Full-sized keyboard Wide and curved palm rest Ergonomically-centered touchpad pointing device

Expansion
u

CardBus PC card (formerly PCMCIA) slots (two type II/I or one type III), upper sort with additional ZV (Zoomed Video) port support. Mini docking station option for one-step connection to/disconnection 9

u

Chapter 1

from peripherals
u

Upgradeable memory and hard disk

Display The large graphics display offers excellent viewing, excellent display quality and high performance desktop graphics. The computer supports two different display configurations -- High Performance Addressing (HPA) or Thin-Film Transistor (TFT). Video Performance The PCI local bus video with 128-bit graphics acceleration and 2MB Extended Data Out (EDO) video RAM boosts video performance. Simultaneous Display The computer's large display and multimedia capabilities are great for giving presentations. If you prefer, you can also connect an external monitor when giving presentations. This computer supports simultaneous LCD and CRT display. Simultaneous display allows you to control the presentation from your computer and at the same time face your audience. You can also connect other output display devices such as LCD projection panels for largeaudience presentations. Power Management The power management system incorporates an "automatic LCD dim" feature that automatically decides the best settings for your display and at the same time conserves power. See "Power Management Modes" on page 30 for more information on power management features. Opening and Closing the Display To open the display, slide the display cover latch to the left and lift up the cover. Then tilt it to a comfortable viewing position. The computer employs a microcircuit that turns off the display (and enters standby mode) to conserve power when you close the display cover, and turns it back on when you open the display cover. Note: If an external monitor is connected, the computer turns off the display (but does not enter standby mode) when you close the display cover. To close the display cover, fold it down gently until the display cover latch clicks into place.

10

System Introduction

Basic Operation
Indicators
The computer has six easy-to-read status indicators (LEDs) under the display screen.

The Power and Standby indicators are visible even when you close the display cover so you can see the status of the computer while the cover is closed.

# 1

Icon

Function Power

Description Lights when the computer is on. Blinks when a battery-low condition occurs.

2 3

Standby Media Activity Battery Charge Caps Lock Num Lock

Lights when the computer enters Standby mode. Lights when the floppy drive, hard disk or CD-ROM drive (or other media bay module) is active. Lights when the battery is being charged.

4

5 6

Lights when Caps Lock is activated Lights when Numeric Lock is activated

Chapter 1

11

Keyboard
The keyboard has full-sized keys and an embedded keypad, separate cursor keys, two Windows 98 keys and twelve function keys.

Special Keys
Lock Keys

The keyboard has three lock keys which you can toggle on and off.

Lock Key Caps Lock Num Lock (Fn-F11)

Description When Caps Lock is on, all alphabetic characters typed are in uppercase. When Num Lock is on, the embedded keypad is in numeric mode. The keys function as a calculator (complete with the arithmetic operators +, -, *, and /). Use this mode when you need to do a lot of numeric data entry. A better solution would be to connect an external keypad. When Scroll Lock is on, the screen moves one line up or down when you press or respectively. Scroll Lock does not work with some applications.

Scroll Lock (Fn-F12)

12

System Introduction

Embedded Numeric Keypad

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

Desired Access Number keys on embedded keypad Cursor-control keys on embedded keypad Main keyboard keys

Num Lock On Type numbers in a normal manner. Hold Shift while using cursor-control keys. Hold Fn while typing letters on embedded keypad.

Num Lock Off

Hold Fn while using cursorcontrol keys. Type the letters in a normal manner.

Note: If an external keyboard or keypad is connected to the computer, the numlock feature automatically shifts from the internal keyboard to the external keyboard or keypad.

Chapter 1

13

Windows 98 Keys

The keyboard has two keys that perform Windows 98-specific functions.

Key Windows logo key

Description Start button. Combinations with this key performs special functions. Below are a few examples:

+ Tab (Activate next Taskbar button) + E (Explore My Computer) + F (Find Document) + M (Minimize All) Shift + + M (Undo Minimize All) + R (Display Run dialog box)

Application key

Opens the application's context menu (same as rightclick).

14

System Introduction

Hot Keys

The computer employs hot keys or key combinations to access most of the computer's controls like screen contrast and brightness, volume output and the BIOS setup utility.

Hot Key Fn-F1

Icon

Function Hot key help

Description Displays a list of the hotkeys and their functions. Accesses the notebook configuration utility. . Puts the computer in Standby mode. Press any key to return. See "System Standby Mode" on page 30 to learn more about Standby mode.

Fn-F2

Setup

Fn-F3

Standby

Fn-F4

Hibernation

Puts the computer in Hibernation mode (if Sleep Manager, the hibernation utility, is installed, valid and enabled). Press the power switch to resume. Otherwise, the computer enters Standby mode. See "Hibernation Mode" on page 31 for more about Hibernation mode.

Fn-F5

Display toggle

Switches display output between the display screen, external monitor (if connected) and both the display screen and external monitor. Turns the display screen backlight off to save power. Press any key to return.

Fn-F6

Screen blank

Chapter 1

15

Hot Key Fn-F7

Icon

Function Touchpad on/off

Description Turns the internal touchpad on and off. When you connect an external PS/2 mouse, the computer automatically disables the touchpad.

Fn-F8

Speaker on/off

Turns the speakers on and off; mutes the sound. Increases the screen contrast (available only for models with HPA displays). Decreases the screen contrast (available only for models with HPA displays). Increases the screen brightness.

Fn-

Contrast up

Fn-

Contrast down

Fn-

Brightness up

Fn-

Brightness down

Decreases the screen brightness.

16

System Introduction

Hardware Configuration and Specification
Memory Address Map
Memory Address 00000000-0009FFFF 000A0000-000BFFFF 000C0000-000C9FFF 000CA000-000CBFFF 000E0000-000FFFFF 00100000-top limited 04301000-04301FFF 04302000-04302FFF 0430000-04300FFFF FFFF0000-FFFFFFFF Size 640 KB 128 KB 40 KB 8 KB 128 KB -4 KB 4 KB 64 KB 64 KB Function Base memory Video memory Video BIOS I/O ROM System BIOS Extended (DIMM) memory PCMCIA controller (slot 1) PCMCIA controller (slot 2) USB controller System board extension for PnP BIOS

Interrupt Channel Assignment
Interrupt Channel NMI IRQ0 IRQ1 IRQ2 IRQ3 IRQ4 IRQ5 IRQ6 IRQ7 IRQ8 IRQ9 IRQ10 IRQ11 IRQ12 IRQ13 IRQ14 IRQ15 System errors System timer Keyboard Cascade Modem or Audio (optional) COM1 or Modem (optional) Audio or LPT2 (optional) Floppy LPT1 or Audio (optional) or Modem (optional) Real time clock Card bus / ACPI or Audio (optional) USB or Audio (optional) or Modem (optional) Audio (optional) or Modem (optional) PS2 pointing device Numeric data processor 1st EIDE device (hard disk) 2nd EIDE device (CD-ROM drive) Function

Chapter 1

17

DMA Channel Assignment
DMA Channel DRQ0 DRQ1 DRQ2 DRQ3 DRQ4 DRQ5 DRQ6 DRQ7 Audio(optional) ECP or Audio(optional) Floppy ECP(optional) DMA controller Not used Not used Audio Function

I/O Address Map
I/O Address 000-00F 020-021 040-043 060, 064 061 040B 061 070-071 080-08F 0A0-0A1 0C0-0DF 0F0-0FF 120-13F 180-18F 170-177 1F0-1F7 220-22F 240-24F 278-27F 2E8-2EF 2F8-2FF 378, 37A 2nd EIDE device (CD-ROM) select 1st EIDE device (hard drive) select Audio Audio(optional) Parallel port 3 LT Win modem or COM4(optional) COM2 or LT Win modem(optional) Parallel port 2 DMA controller-1 Interrupt controller-1 Timer 1 Keyboard controller 8742 chip select System speaker out DMA controller-1 System speaker Real-time clock and NMI mask DMA page register Interrupt controller-2 DMA controller-2 Numeric data processor Power management controller Function

18

System Introduction

I/O Address Map
I/O Address 3BC-3BE 3B0-3BB 3C0-3DF 3F0h-3F7 3E8-3EF 3F0-3F7 3F8-3FF 480-48F, 4D6 4D0-4D1 CF8-CFF Standard Floppy Disk Controller COM3 or LT Win modem(optional) Floppy disk controller COM1 or LT Win modem(optional) DMA controller-1 PCI configuration register paraller port 1 Video Controller Function

Processor
Item CPU type Specification Intel Tillamook 233/266 Mhz processor Tillamook--Intel Pentium architecture, 64 bit data bus, 16K-Byte code cache, 16 K-Bytes write back data, cache, with MMX technology TCP package 1.8V 2.5V

CPU package CPU core voltage CPU I/O voltage

BIOS
Item BIOS vendor BIOS Version BIOS ROM type BIOS ROM size BIOS package Supports protocol Acer V 3.0 Flash ROM 256KB 32-pin TSOP PCI 2.1, APM 1.2, DMI 2.00.1, E-IDE, ACPI, USB, ESCD 1.03, ANSI ATA 3.0, PnP 1.0a, Bootable CDROM 1.0, ATAPI, LDCM 3.3 Set by switch, see SW2(swtich 2) settings Specification

BIOS password control

Chapter 1

19

System Memory
Item Memory controller Onboard memory size DIMM socket number Supports memory size per socket Supports maximum memory size Supports DIMM type Supports DIMM Speed Supports DIMM voltage Supports DIMM package ALi M1531 0MB 2 sockets (2 banks) 16/32/64/128 MB 256MB (128MB x 2) Synchronous DRAM 100MHz 3.3V 144-pin DIMM Specification

DIMM Combinations
Slot 1 0 0 0 0 16MB 16MB 16MB 16MB 32MB 32MB 32MB 32MB 64MB 64MB 64MB 64MB 128MB 128MB 128MB 128MB 16MB 32MB 64MB 128MB 16MB 32MB 64MB 128MB 16MB 32MB 64MB 128MB 16MB 32MB 64MB 128MB 16MB 32MB 64MB 128MB Slot 2 Total Memory 16MB 32MB 64MB 128MB 32MB 48MB 80MB 144MB 48MB 64MB 96MB 160MB 80MB 96MB 128MB 192MB 144MB 160MB 192MB 256MB

20

System Introduction

Video Memory
Item Fixed or upgradeable Video memory size Specification Fixed, built-in NM2097B video controller 2MB

Cache Memory
Item Cache controller Tag RAM location Tag RAM size Tag RAM voltage SRAM type SRAM size SRAM location SRAM configuration SRAM speed SRAM voltage 1st level cache control 2st level cache control Cache scheme control ALi M1531 U32 32 KB 3.3V PBSRAM 512 KB U37 64K*64 x1 Cycle time = 7ns 3.3V Always enabled Always enabled Fixed in write-back Specification

Video
Item Chip vendor Chip name Chip voltage Supports ZV((Zoomed Video) port Graph interface (ISA/VESA/PCI) Maximun resolution (LCD) Maximnun resolution (CRT) NeoMagic NM2097B 3.3 Volts Yes PCI bus 1024x768 (256 colors) 1024x768 (256 colors) Specification

Video Resolutions Modes
Resolution CRT Only Refresh Rate LCD/CRT Simultaneous

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21

Video Resolutions Modes
Resolution 640x480x256 640x480x64K 640x480x16M 800x600x256 800X600X64K 1024x768x256 85 85 85 85 85 60, 75 Refresh Rate 60 60 60 60 60 60

Parallel Port
Item Parallel port controller Number of parallel ports Location Connector type Parallel port function control Supports ECP Optional ECP DMA channel (in BIOS Setup) Optional parallel port I/O address (in BIOS Setup) Optional parallel port IRQ (in BIOS Setup) Specification NS PC97338VJG 1 Rear side 25-pin D-type connector, in female type. Enable/Diable by BIOS Setup Yes (set by BIOS setup) DMA channel 1 DMA Channel 3 3BCh, 378h, 278h IRQ5, IRQ7

Serial Port
Item Serial port controller Number of serial ports Supports 16550 UART Connector type Location Serial port function control Optional serial port (in BIOS Setup) Optional serial port IRQ (in BIOS Setup) Specification NS PC97338VJG 1 Yes 9-pin D-type connector, in male type Rear side Enable/disable by BIOS Setup 3F8h, 2F8h, 3E8h, 2E8h, Disabled IRQ4, IRQ11

22

System Introduction

Audio
Item Audio Controller Audio onboard or optional Mono or Stereo Resolution Compatibility Mixed sound source Voice channel Sampling rate Internal microphone Internal speaker / Quantity Supports PnP DMA channel Specification Yamaha YMF715E Built-in Stereo 16-bit SB-Pro, Windows Sound System (WSS), MPU-401, OPL3, OPL3-SA3 Voice, Synthesizer, Line-in, Microphone, CD 8-/16-bit, mono/stereo 44.1 KHz Yes, on the left-higher corner of LCD panel Yes / 2 pieces, on both hinge sides DMA channel 0 DMA channel 1 DMA channel 7 IRQ3, IRQ5, IRQ7, IRQ9, IRQ10, IRQ11

Supports PnP IRQ

PCMCIA
Item PCMCIA controller Supports card type Number of slots Access location Supports ZV (Zoomed Video) port Supports 32 bit CardBus Specification O2 OZ6833T Type-II / type-III Two type-II or one type-III Right side Yes (for upper slot) Yes (IRQ9, for both slots)

Modem
Item Chipset Fax modem data baud rate (bps) Data modem data baud rate (bps) Specification Lucent 1641B 56K 56K

Chapter 1

23

Modem
Item Supports modem protocol Specification V.90 data modem, V.90 fax modem, audio mode, and digital line protection operation RJ11 Right side

Modem connector type Modem connector location

Keyboard
Item Keyboard controller Keyboard vendor & model name Total number of keypads Windows 95 keys Internal & external keyboard work simultaneously Specification Mitsubishi M38867 API 84-/85-/89-key Yes Yes

Diskette Drive
Item Vendor & model name Floppy Disk Specifications Media recognition Sectors / track Tracks Data transfer rate (Kbit/ s) Rotational speed (RPM) Read/write heads Encoding method Power Requirement Input Voltage (V) +5 +-10% 2DD (720KB) 9 80 250 ~ 300 300 ~ 360 2 MFM 2HD (1.2MB, 3-mode) 15 80 500 360 2HD (1.44MB) 18 80 500 300 Misumi D353F3 Specification

Hard Disk Drive
Item Vendor & Model Name Hitachi DK226A-32u Specification IBM DTCA23240 IBM DKLA24320

24

System Introduction

Hard Disk Drive
Item Drive Format Capacity (MB) Bytes per sector Logical heads Logical sectors Drive Format Logical cylinders Physical read/write heads Disks Spindle speed (RPM) Performance Specifications Buffer size Interface Data transfer rete (diskbuffer, Mbytes/s) Data transfer, rate (host~buffer, Mbytes/s) DC Power Requirements Voltage tolerance 5+-5% 5+-5% 5+-5% 128KB IDE(ATA-3) 6.0~9.1 16.6 (PIO mode 4) 512KB IDE 6.4~10.4 512KB IDE(ATA-4) 7.7~12.8 6282 3 6 4000 6304 5 3 4000 8944 4 2 4200 3240 512 16 63 3240 512 16 63 4320 512 15 63 Specification

16.6 (PIO mode 4) 33.3 (Ultra DMA mode 2)

CD-ROM
Item Vendor & Model Name Performance Specification Transfer rate (KB/sec) Access time (typ.) Rotation speed Buffer memory Interface Applicable disc format 1,290KB/sec ~ 3,000KB/sec. (FULL - CAV) 180 mS 4280 rpm (typ.) 128 KB ATAPI CD-DA, CD-ROM (Mode-1, Mode-2), CD-ROM XA MODE-2 (FORM-1, FORM-2), Multi-Session Photo CD, CD-I, Video CD, Enhanced CD & CD PLUS Compatible Drawer with soft eject and emergency eject hole Specification TEAC CD-220EA-25/BE

Loading mechanism Power Requirement

Chapter 1

25

CD-ROM
Item Input Voltage 5V Specification

Battery Pack
Item Vendor & model name Battery Type Pack capacity Cell voltage Number of battery call Package configuration Package voltage Specification Panasonic BTP-1831 Toshiba BTP-1731 NiMH 3500 mAH 1.2 V 8 8 cells in series 9.6 V

DC-DC/Charger Board
Item Vendor & model name Input voltage DC/DC converter output Output rating Current (w/load, A) Charger output Normal charge (charge while system is not operative) Backgound charge (charge even system is still operative) Battery-lower 2 level (V) Battery-low 3 level (V) Protection Charger protection Security timer control Over temperature protection Peak voltage detection DC/DC converter protection OVP (Over Voltage Protection, V) OCP (Over Current Protection, A) 2.2A 0.8A 5V 0~5.8 3.3V 0~3.3 +12V 0~0.12 6V 0~0.1 3.3V SB 0.01 Specification Ambit T62.101.C.00/01 AC adapter: 19V-26V Battery: 7.5V-13V

9.14V 8V

26

System Introduction

LCD Inverter
Item Vendor & model name Input voltage (V) Input current (mA) Output voltage (Vrms, no load) Output voltage frequency (kHz) Output current (mArms) (T62.087.C.00) Output current (mArms) (T62.086.C.00) Ambit T622.087.C.00 7.3 (min.) 1300 (min.) 40 (min.) 0.7~5.9 (min.) 155 1.0~6.5 (typ.) 22 (max.) 700 (max.) 1600 (max.) 65 (max.) 1.3~7.1 (max.) Specification

0.6~5.4 (min.)

1.0~6.0 (typ.)

1.4~6.6 (max.)

Note: DC-AC inverter is used to generate very high AC voltage, then support to LCD CCFT backlight user, and is also responsible for the control of LCD brightness. Avoid touching the DC-AC inverter area while the system unit is turned on. Note: There is an EEPROM in the inverter, which stores it's supported LCD type and ID code. If you replace a new inverter or replace the LCD with one of a different brand, use Inverter ID utility to update the ID information. LCD
Item Vendor & model name Mechanical Specifications LCD display area (diagonal, inch) Display technology Resolution Supports colors Optical Specification Brightness control Contrast control keyboard hotkey keyboard hotkey keyboard hotkey keyboard hotkey 12.1 TFT SVGA (800x600) 262,144 colors 12.1 DSTN SVGA (800x600) 262,144 colors 12.1" Hitachi TX31D27VC1CBB Specifications 12.1" Sharp LM121SS1T53

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27

LCD
Item Electrical Specification Supply voltage for LCD display (V) Supply voltage for LCD backlight (Vrms) 3.0~3.6 (typ.) 650 (typ), 660 (max.) 3.3 (typ.) 650 (typ) Specifications

Power Adapter
Item Vendor & model name Input Requirements Maximum input current (A, @90Vac, full load) Nominal frequency (Hz) Frequency variation range (Hz) Nominal voltages (Vrms) Inrush current 1.5 A 47 - 63 47 - 63 90 - 264 The maximum inrush current will be less than 50A and 100A when the adapter is connected to 115Vac(60Hz) and 230Vac(50Hz) respectively. It should provide an efficiency of 83% minimum, when measured at maximum load under 115V(60Hz). Specification Delta ADP-45GB Rev. E5

Efficiency

Output Ratings (CV mode) DC output voltage Noise + Ripple Load Output Ratings (CC mode) DC output voltage Constant output Dynamic Output Characteristics Turn-on delay time Hold up time Over Voltage Protection (OVP) Short circuit protection Electrostatic discharge (ESD) Dielectric Withstand Voltage 2 sec. (@115Vac) 5 ms min. (@115 Vac input, full load) 26 V Output can be shorted without damage 15kV (at air discharge) +12V ~ +19V 2.75 ± 0.2 A +19.0V~20.5V 300mvp-pmax (20Mhz bandwidth) 0 A (min.) 2.4 A (max.)

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System Introduction

Power Adapter
Item Primary to secondary Leakage current Regulatory Requirements Specification 3000 Vac (or 4242 Vdc), 10 mA for 1 second 0.25 mA max. (@ 254 Vac, 60Hz) Internal filter meets: 1. FCC class B requirements. (USA) 2. VDE 243/1991 class B requirements. (German) 3. CISPR 22 Class B requirements. (Scandinavia) 4. VCCI class II requirements. (Japan)

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Power Management
This computer has a built-in power management unit that monitors system activity. System activity refers to any activity involving one or more of the following devices: keyboard, mouse, floppy drive, hard disk, peripherals connected to the serial and parallel ports, and video memory. If no activity is detected for a period of time (called an inactivity time-out), the computer stops some or all of these devices in order to conserve energy. This computer manages its power according to the way you use your computer. This means the computer delivers maximum power when you need it, and saves power when you don't need the maximum -- all without your intervention. There are no timers to set, because the power management system figures out everything for you.

Power Management Modes
Display Standby Mode Screen activity is determined by the keyboard the built-in touchpad, and an external PS/2 pointing device. If these devices are idle for the period determined by the computer's power management system, the display shuts off until you press a key or move the touchpad or external mouse. "Automatic Dim" Feature The computer has a unique "automatic dim" power-saving feature. When the computer is using AC power and you disconnect the AC adapter from the computer, it automatically dims the LCD backlight to save power. If you reconnect AC power to the computer, it automatically adjusts the LCD backlight to a brighter level. Hard Disk Standby Mode The hard disk enters standby mode when there are no disk read/write operations within the period of time determined by the power management system. In this state, the power supplied to the hard disk is reduced to a minimum. The hard disk returns to normal once the computer accesses it. System Standby Mode The computer consumes very little power in Standby mode. Data remain intact in the system memory until the battery is drained. There is one necessary condition for the computer to enter Standby mode:
u

Heuristic Power Management Mode must be set to [ENABLED].

There are four ways to enter Standby mode: 30 System Introduction

u u

Pressing the Standby hot key Fn-F3 If the waiting time determined by the computer's power management system elapses without any system activity Closing the display cover When the computer is about to enter Hibernation mode (e.g., during a battery low condition), but the Hibernation file is invalid or not present

u u

The following signals indicate that the computer is in Standby mode:
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The Standby indicator lights

To leave Standby mode and return to normal mode:
u u u u u

Press any key Move the active pointing device (internal or external, PS/2 or serial) Have the Resume Timer set and let it be matched Open the display cover Experience an incoming PC card modem event

Hibernation Mode In Hibernation mode, all power shuts off (the computer does not consume any power). The computer saves all system information onto the hard disk before it enters Hibernation mode. Once you turn on the power, the computer restores this information and resumes where you left off upon leaving Hibernation mode. There are two necessary conditions for the computer to enter Hibernation mode:
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The Hibernation file created by Sleep Manager must be present and valid. Heuristic Power Management Mode must be set to [ENABLED].

u

In this situation, there are four ways to enter Hibernation mode:
u u

Pressing the Hibernation hot key Fn-F4 If the waiting time determined by the computer's power management system elapses without any system activity If a battery low condition occurs and the Battery Low Suspend parameter in Setup is set to [ENABLED]. Invoked by the operating system power saving modes To exit Hibernation mode, press the power switch. The computer also resumes from Hibernation mode if the resume timer is set and matched.

u

u u

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32

System Introduction

Chapter 2

Software Utilities
BIOS Setup Utility
The BIOS Setup Utility is a hardware configuration program built into your computer's BIOS (Basic Input/Ouput System). Your computer is already properly configured and optimized, and you do not need to run this utility. However, if you encounter configuration problems, you may need to run Setup. Please also refer to Chapter 6, Troubleshooting when a problem arises. To activate the BIOS Utility, press F2 during POST (while the Extensa logo is being displayed.

Navigating the BIOS Utility There are six menu options: Basic System Settings, Startup Configuration, Onboard Devices Configuration, System Security, Power Management and Load Default Settings. To enter a menu, highlight the item using the keys; then press Enter. Within a menu, navigate through the BIOS Utility by following these instructions:
u u u

Press the cursor up/down keys to move between parameters. Press the cursor left/right keys to change the value of a parameter. Press Esc while you are in any of the menu options to return to the main menu. Note: You can change the value of a parameter if it is enclosed in

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square brackets.
Note: Navigation keys for a particular menu are shown on the bottom of the screen.

Basic System Settings
The Basic System Settings screen contains parameters involving basic computer settings and hardware information.

The following table describes the parameters in this screen. Settings in boldface are the default and suggested parameter settings.

Parameter Date

Description Sets the system date. Format: DDD MMM DD YYYY (day-of-the-week month day year)

Time Floppy Drive A Hard Disk

Sets the system time. Format: HH:MM:SS (hour:minute:second) Shows the floppy disk drive type (1.44MB 3.5-inch). Sets the hard disk type. Options: Auto, User or None. When set to Auto, the computer automatically detects the hard disk information (cylinders, heads, sectors/ tracks and maximum capacity). When set to User, you need to input these information manually.

Note: We suggest you set Hard Disk to [Auto] for problem-free and correct detection of the hard disk.

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Software Utilities

Startup Configuration
The Startup Configuration screen contains parameters that are related to computer startup.

The following table describes the parameters in this screen. Settings in boldface are the default and suggested parameter settings.

Parameter Boot Display

Description Sets the display on boot-up. When set to Auto, the computer automatically determines the display device. If an external display device (e.g., monitor) is connected, it becomes the boot display; otherwise, the computer LCD is the boot display. When set to Both, the computer outputs to both the computer LCD and an external display device if one is connected. Options: Auto or Both

Memory Test Silent Boot

Enables or disabled memory test on boot-up. Options: Disabled or Enabled When enabled, hides the computer startup messages on boot-up (the Extensa logo displays) Options: Enabled or Disabled Specifies the boot sequence (the order of drives that the computer will attempt to boot from). For example, when set to Drive A Then C, the computer attempts to boot from the floppy drive. If no bootable floppy disk is in drive A, the computer boots from the hard disk. Options: Drive A Then C, Drive A, Drive C, Drive C Then A

System Boot Drive

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Parameter Boot from CD-ROM

Description Enables boot-up from the CD-ROM drive. When enabled, the computer attempts to boot from the CD-ROM drive (looks for a bootable CD-ROM) before following the boot sequence specified inthe System Boot Drive parameter. Options: Enabled or Disabled Specifies the operating system installed in the computer. This parameter helps determine certain hardware settings for optimal computer operation. Options: Windows 95/98 or Windows NT Enables or disables the USB (Universal Serial Bus) function. Options: Disabled or Enabled

Operating System

USB Function Support

Onboard Devices Configuration
The Onboard Devices Configuration screen contains parameters settings for your hardware connection devices.

Note: The parameters in this screen are for advanced users only. You do not need to change the values in this screen because these values are already optimized. The following table describes the parameters in this screen. Settings in boldface are the default and suggested parameter settings.

Parameter Serial Port

Description Enables or disabled the serial port. Options: Enabled or Disabled

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Software Utilities

Parameter Base Address IRQ Parallel Port Base Address IRQ Operation Mode ECP DMA Channel

Description Sets the I/O address of the serial port. Options: 3F8h, 2F8h, 3E8h or 2E8h Sets the interrupt request of the serial port. Options: 4 or 11 Enables or disables the parallel port. Options: Enabled or Disabled Sets the I/O address of the parallel port. Options: 378h, 278h or 3BCh Sets the interrupt request of the parallel port. Options: 7 or 5 Sets the operation mode of the parallel port. Options: Bi-directional , ECP or Standard Sets a DMA channel for the printer to operate in ECP mode. This parameter is enabled only if Operation Mode is set to ECP. Options: 1 or 3

System Security
The System Security screen contains parameters that help safeguard and protect your computer from unauthorized use.

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The following table describes the parameters in this screen. Settings in boldface are the default and suggested parameter settings.

Parameter Disk Drive Control (Diskette Drive) Disk Drive Control (Hard Disk Drive) Setup Password

Description Determines the level of operation of the floppy drive. Options: Normal or Disabled Determines the level of operation of the hard disk. Options: Normal or Disabled When set, this password protects the BIOS Utility from unauthorized entry. Options: None or Present When set, this password protects the computer from unauthorized entry during bootup or resume from hibernation mode. Options: None or Present

Power-on Password

Setting a Password Follow these steps: 1. Use the and keys to highlight a password parameter (Setup or Poweron) and press the Enter key. The password box appears:

2. Type a password. The password may consist of up to seven characters (A-Z, a-z, 0-9). Note: Be very careful when typing your password because the characters do not appear on the screen. 3. Press Enter. The retype password box appears.

4. Retype the password to verify your first entry and press Enter. 5. After setting the password, the computer automatically sets the chosen password parameter to Present. 6. Press Esc to return to the main menu. 7. Press Esc. The following dialog box appears.

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Software Utilities

Select Yes and press Enter to save the password and exit the BIOS Utility. Changing a Password To change a password, follow the same steps used to set a password. Removing a Password To remove a password, use the and keys to highlight a password parameter and press the or key.

Power Management
The Power Management screen contains parameters that are related to power-saving and power management.

The following table describes the parameters in this screen. Settings in boldface are the default and suggested parameter settings.

Parameter Heuristic Power Management Mode Display Always On

Description Enables or disables heuristic power management (Windows 95 only). See "Power Management" on page 30 for more information on power management modes. Options: Enabled or Disabled When enabled, the computer display is always on (Windows 95 only). You may want to set this if you are making a presentation on your computer. Options: Disabled or Enabled When enabled, the computer gives off a beep when a hot key (key combination is pressed). See "Hot Keys" on page 15 for details on hot keys. Options: Enabled or Disabled

Hotkey Beep

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Parameter System Resume Timer Mode System Resume Date System Resume Time BatteryLow Warning Beep Sleep on Battery-low

Description When enabled and the system resume date and time are valid, the computer resumes (wakes up) at the set time and date. Options: Disabled or Enabled Sets the date the computer resumes at if System Resume Timer Mode is enabled. Format: MM DD, YYYY (month day, year) Sets the time the computer resumes at if System Resume Time Mode is enabled. Format: HH:MM:SS (hour:minute:second) Enables or disables warning beeps during a batterylow condition. Options: Enabled or Disabled Enables or disables the hibernation function during a battery-low condition. When the computer is running very low on battery power, the computer will enter hibernation mode if Sleep Manager is installed and the hibernation file is valid. Options: Enabled or Disabled

Load Default Settings
When you select this menu item, the following dialog box displays:

To load factory-default settings for all the parameters, select Yes and press Enter. Otherwise, select No and press Enter.

40

Software Utilities

AFlash Utility
The BIOS flash memory update is required for the following conditions:
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New versions of system programs New features or options

Use the AFlash utility to update the system BIOS flash ROM. Note: Do not install memory-related drivers (XMS, EMS, DPMI) when you use AFlash. The AFlash functions support all the operations required for system Flash ROM. The functions are divided into four steps as follows. 1. Load BIOS file to buffer reads a specified file from a diskette to memory for future program use or for check only. It supports the 64-KB, 128-KB, 192-KB, or 256-KB files. 2. Save BIOS to disk file reads BIOS from the current BIOS area and writes to the file specified by the user. 3. Edit OEM string reads specified file from a diskette to memory, edits OEM string and writes to a file. 4. Program flash memory programs Flash memory according to the data loaded in step 1. This function also shows the BIOS checksum and BIOS type to make sure that the operation is correct.

Executing AFlash
Follow these steps to execute AFlash: 1. Copy the MSG.DAT and AFLASH.EXE files from the system utilities diskette into the subdirectory of your choice. 2. From that subdirectory, type: Enter aflash 3. A help message appears. Press any key to continue. 4. The main menu appears. Use the or key to highlight the options. Press Enter to select. 5. If you want to save a copy of the current BIOS into a file, select Save BIOS to Disk File. 6. Select Load BIOS File to load the BIOS file into memory. 7. Select Program Flash Memory to erase the current BIOS, and program Flash ROM. Note: Never turn off the system power while Flash BIOS is programming. This will destroy the BIOS. 8. Reboot the system.

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Quick Way to Execute AFlash
When you have already copied the AFlash files into your hard disk, you can simply type the following on the DOS prompt (subdirectory where the files are located) to quickly execute the program. aflash (file name) Enter

The program automatically performs the loading and programming functions, then reboots the system. If the program cannot find the BIOS file, it returns to the main menu and flashes the following message: Can't Read This File!!! Press any key to continue.....

In this case, follow the procedures for loading and programming the BIOS file using the main menu.

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Software Utilities

System Utility Diskette
1. This utility diskette is for the Acer Extensa 500 notebook machine. It provides the following functions: 2. Read/write LCD panel ID 3. Set thermal sensor threshold 4. Verify thermal sensor threshold (by testing fan function) To use this diskette, first boot from this diskette, then a "Microsoft Windows 95 Startup Menu" prompt you to choose the testing item. Follow the instructions on screen to proceed. Important!! This diskette is not bootable, do the following actions before you use it: 1. Do system transfers. 2. Copy HIMEM.SYS to A:\. 3. Copy HIMEM.COM to A:\.

Set LCD Panel ID
There is an EEPROM in the inverter which stores its supported LCD type ID code. If you replace a LCD with one of a different brand or use a new inverter, the ID information in the inverter EEPROM should be updated. Follow the steps blew to see the LCD Panel ID: 1. Follow the instruction on screen to read current or to set new LCD Panel ID code. Note: When you set a new LCD Panel ID and the new LCD is not yet enabled (to function), so connect an external CRT to see the program execution process. Note: Make sure the new ID code you choose corresponds with the LCD brand and type. If you write a wrong ID into inverter, just reboot and re-execute the program and input the correct ID code. 2. Restart computer - the new LCD should work normally. Note: If LCD cannot display after change ID code, make sure you write the correct ID code, or try reconnecting the LCD FPC cable connectors.

Set Thermal Sensor Threshold
The system is equipped with sensors to protect against system overheating. By setting System and processor thermal thresholds, the system can turn on the cooling fan or shut down automatically when temperatures reach the defined threshold parameters. Chapter 2 43

System Diagnostic Diskette
This diagnostic diskette is for the Acer Extensa 500 notebook machine. It provides the following functions: 1. System Test 2. Modem Dialing Test Note: A phone line is required when executing the Modem Dialing Test, or this test fails. 3. Audio Function Test 4. CD-Player Function Test 5. USB Register and Connect/Disconnect Test Note: A USB device is required when executing USB Connection/ Disconnection Test, or this test fails. To use this diskette, first boot from this diskette, then a "Microsoft Windows 95 Startup Menu" prompts you to choose the testing item. Follow the instructions on screen to proceed. Important!! This diskette is not bootable, do the following actions before you use it: 1. Do system transfers. 2. Copy the following files to A:\ HIMEM.SYS EMM386.SYS MSCDEX.SYS CHOICE.COM RAMDRIVE.SYS Note: When executing a parallel or serial port test in System Test item, a loopback tool is needed. This loopback is Acer proprietary design. You may reach the [email protected] for ordering information.

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Software Utilities

Running PQA Diagnostics Program.
PQA Vx_x xx-xx-xx

Diag

Result

SysInfo

Option

Exit

Press to move around the main menu. Press Enter to enable the selected option. The main options are Diag, Result, SysInfo, Option and Exit. The Diag option lets you select testing items and times. The following screen appears when you select Diag from the main menu.
PQA Vx_x xx-xx-xx

Diag

Result Diag

SysInfo

Option

Exit

MANUAL TEST AUTO TEST

Manual Test Performs a single test and Manual checks the selected test items in sequence. Auto Test Performs multiple tests of the selected items and AUTO check the select test items in sequence. Note: PCMCIA Diagnostic Supports Manual test only. Do not select PCMCIA Diagnostic in Auto Test.

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The screen below appears if you select AUTO Test.
PQA Vx_x xx-xx-xx

Diag

Result Diag

SysInfo

Option

Exit

MANUAL TEST AUTO TEST

TEST COUNT VALUE (1...9999) 1

Specify the desired number of tests and press Enter. After you specify the number of tests to perform, the screen shows a list of test items (see below).
PQA Vx_x xx-xx-xx

Result Diag Diag
MANUALTest Items TEST [ AUTO] System Board TEST [ ] Memory [ ] Keyboard [ ] Video [ ] Parallel Port [ ] Serial Port [ ] Diskette Drive [ ] Hard Disk [ ] CD-ROM [ ] Coprocessor [ ] Pointing Dev. [ ] Cache

SysInfo

Option

Exit

SPACE: mark/unmark selecting item ESC : return to upper menu F2 : test the marked item(s) ENTER: open subitem's menu Test Times = 1

Move the highlight bar from one item to another. Press Space to enable or disable the item. Press Enter to view the available options of each selected item. Press Esc to close the close the submenu. The right corner screen information gives you the available function keys and the specified test number.
u u u u u

Space: Enables/disables the item ESC: Exits the program F1: Help F2: Tests the selected item(s) Enter: Opens the available options

46

Software Utilities

u

Test Times: Indicates the number of tests to perform. Note: The F1 and F2 keys function only after you finish configuring the Test option.

Diagnostic Program Error Code and Messages
Error Code 16XX 1XXX Message Backup battery error CPU or main board error FRU/Action in Sequence Backup battery Reload BIOS default setting. CPU System board 2XXX Memory error Reconnect CPU board DIMM System board 3XXX Keyboard error Reseat Keyboard Keyboard System board 4XXX 5XXX 6XXX 7XXX 8XXX Video error Parallel Port error Serial port or main board error Diskette drive error Hard disk error System board System board System board Diskette drive System board Reload BIOS default setting. Hard disk System board 9XXX CD-ROM error Reseat CD-ROM cable CD-ROM drive System board 10XXX 11XXX CPU or main board error Pointing device error CPU System board Reseat Keyboard Keyboard System board

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48

Software Utilities

Chapter 3

Machine Disassembly
This chapter contains step-by-step procedures on how to disassemble the notebook computer for maintenance and troubleshooting. To disassemble the computer, you need the following tools:
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Wrist grounding strap and conductive mat for preventing electrostatic discharge Flat-bladed screwdriver Phillips screwdriver Tweezers Flat-bladed screwdriver or plastic stick Note: The screws for the different components vary in size. During the disassembly process, group the screws with the corresponding components to avoid mismatch when putting back the components.

u u u u

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49

General Information
Before You Begin
Before proceeding with the disassembly procedure, make sure that you do the following: 1. Turn off the power to the system and all peripherals. 2. Unplug the AC adapter and all power and signal cables from the system. 3. Remove the battery pack.

Connector Types
There are two kinds of connectors on the system board:
u

Connectors with no locks Unplug the cable by simply pulling out the cable from the connector. Connectors with locks You can use a plastic stick to lock and unlock connectors with locks.

u

Unplugging the Cable

Plugging the Cable Unplugging the Cable

Plugging the Cable

Unplugging the cable with locks To unplug the cable, first unlock the connector by pulling up the two clasps on both sides of the connector with a plastic stick. Then carefully pull out the cable from the connector. Plugging the cable with locks To plug the cable back, first make sure that the connector is unlocked, then plug the cable into the connector. With a plastic stick, press the two clasps on both sides of the connector to secure the cables in place. Note: The cables used here are special FPC (flexible printed-circuit) cables and more delicate than normal plastic-enclosed cables. Do not force cables out of the connectors to prevent damage. 50 Machine Disassembly

Disassembly Procedure Flowchart
The flowchart on the succeeding page gives you a graphic representation on the entire disassembly sequence and instructs you on the components that need to be removed during servicing. For example, if you want to remove the system board, you must first remove the keyboard, then disassemble the inside assembly frame in that order

Start Battery Pack Battery Cover

DIMM Cover DIMM

Hinge Cover

Modem Cover Modem Board

Keyboard

LCD Module LCD Bezel

Main Unit (see next page)

LCD LCD FPC Cable

Internal MIC.

LED Board

Inverter Inverter Power Cable

LED Cable

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.

Main Unit

CPU Heat Sink

PCMCIA & HDD Heat Sink

CPU EMI Cover

Touch Pad Cable

HDD Module

CPU Board Lower Case Upper Case

DC-DC Charger

Audio & Battery Connection Board

CD-ROM & FDD Module

CD-Palyer Control Board

Touchpad CD-ROM Drive and Cable FDD Drive and Cable

Main board

RJ-45 Connector

PCMCIA Card

52

Machine Disassembly

Removing the Battery Pack
1. Pull down the battery cover, slide the battery out from the main unit .I

2. To remove the battery cover, gently bend the battery cover a little bit outward, then slide the battery cover downward to remove it.

Removing the DIMM
1. Remove the two screws shown below to remove the DIMM door..

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2. Use a plastic flat-bladed screwdriver to push the latches outward on both sides of the DIMM socket to remove the DIMM module from the DIMM socket.

Removing the Modem Board
1. Remove the screw shown below to remove the modem cover.

2. Use a plastic flatbladed screwdriver to push out the latches on both sides of the modem board socket to remove the modem board.

3. Disconnect the modem phone cable from the modem board.

54

Machine Disassembly

Removing the Keyboard
1. Slide out the hinge covers on both sides of the notebook.

2. Use a plastic flatbladed screwdriver to remove the LCD FPC cover.

3. Slide the middle cover to the left side and remove the middle cover.

Note: To replace the middle cover, be sure that the latches are lined up with the uppercase as indicated.

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4. Lift the keyboard up, turn it over and carefully place on the palm rest to expose the keyboard connector.

5. Disconnect the keyboard connector CN20 as shown below.

56

Machine Disassembly

Removing the LCD Module
1. Disconnect the internal microphone cable at CN8 from the system board.

2. Disconnect the LED cable at CN10 from the system board.

3. Remove the two screws on the LCD FPC cable.

4. Use a plastic flatbladed screwdriver to disconnect the LCD FPC cable at CN9 from the system board.

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5. Remove the two screws from the base unit, then carefully detach the LCD module from the main unit.

Disassembling the LCD
1. Remove the two cushions and two mylar stickers from the four corners of display bezel.

2. Remove the five screws of the LCD bezel as shown below.

58

Machine Disassembly

3. Carefully, pull out the display bezel from the inside out.

4. Remove the two screws from the LED board, then lift the LED board from the display panel.

5. Carefully remove the internal microphone cable from the display panel.

6. Remove the six screws as shown below to separate the LCD and the LCD inverter board.

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7. To remove the LCD inverter board, disconnect the LCD FPC cable and LCD power cable from the LCD inverter board.

8. Carefully remove the adhesive tape to remove the LCD FPC cable from the LCD.

9. This completes the disassembly of the LCD module.

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Machine Disassembly

Disassembling the Main Unit
Removing the HDD & PCMCIA Heat Sink
1. Remove the 2 screws from the HDD & PCMCIA heat sink.

2. Slide the HDD & PCMCIA heat sink out from the upper case, using both hands to remove.

Removing the Hard Disk Drive
1. Remove the screw from the hard disk module.

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2. To detach the hard disk module from the main unit, gently pull up to remove. .

Removing the CPU Heat Sink and CPU Board
1. Remove the 4 screws of the CPU heat sink, then gently remove the heat sink.

2. First remove the CPU EMI shield, to detach and remove the CPU board from the system board.

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Machine Disassembly

Removing the RTC Battery
1. Use a flat bladed screw driver to remove the RTC battery from its socket.

Note: You can also remove RTC battery when the keyboard and CPU heat sink are removed. Note: To re-install RTC battery, press the RTC battery into the socket

Disassembling the Upper Case
1. Disconnect the touchpad cable from the system board at CN19.

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2. Remove the 11 screws as shown below.

3. Lift up the upper case and disconnect the LCD cover switch from the system board at CN7 to detach the upper case from the lower case.

Removing the Touchpad
1. Disconnect the touchpad FPC cable from the touchpad board.

2. Remove the 6 screws of the touchpad bracket.

64

Machine Disassembly

3. Lift the touchpad bracket, FPC cable and CD-ROM control panel board assembly away from the upper case.

4. To detach the CD-ROM control panel board, first disconnect the touchpad FPC cable, then remove the 3 screws to release it.

5. Finally, remove the touchpad board from the upper case.

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Disassembling the Lower Case
1. Gently remove the speaker nets from the lower case.

Removing the CD-ROM/Diskette Drive Module
1. Disconnect the diskette drive cable and the CD-ROM drive cable at CN15 and CN16 of the system board

2. Remove this screw from the diskette and CD-ROM/diskette drive Module.

3. Gently pull up the CD-ROM/diskette drive module from the lower case.

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Machine Disassembly

Fro CD-ROM/diskette drive module, there are two types of cabling: IMPORTANT!! Before Acer encountered problems, the cabling for the diskette drive was originally placed between the bracket of roughly 1000 pieces. In order to avoid damaging these cables, Acer then redesigned the cabling to go around the bracket instead. You may have to repair both types. In the case of the limited quantity version, you should replace the longer cable type and connect the diskette FRC cable to go around the bracket to avoid the same mistake. Type 1 Cabling (mass-production version): 1. Remove the 3 screws located at the CD-ROM/diskette drive module's bracket to separate the CD-ROM drive from the CD-ROM/diskette drive module

2. Remove the 3 screws from the diskette drive

Type 2 Cabling (a limited quantity version):

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1. Remove the 3 screws located at the CD-ROM/diskette drive module's bracket.

2. Separate the CD-ROM drive from the CD-ROM/diskette drive module.

3. Remove the 3 screws from the diskette drive.

4. This completes the disassembly of the CD-ROM/diskette drive module.

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Machine Disassembly

Removing the Speakers
1. Disconnect the left and right channel speaker cables from the audio-I/O and battery connection board.

2. Remove the 4 screws from the left and right speaker channels.

3. Remove the left and right speakers away from the lower case.

Removing the DC-DC/Charger Board
1. Disconnect the charger board from CN23.

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2. Remove the 2 screws from the audio-I/O and battery connection board

Removing the DC-DC/Charger Board
1. Gently pull upward to remove the audio-I/O and battery connection board from the system board.

Removing the System Board
1. Disconnect these 2 screws from the system board.

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Machine Disassembly

2. Remove the modem phone jack shield from the system board.

9. Remove the system board from the lower case.

Removing the PCMCIA slot
1. Remove the 4 screws around the PCMCIA slot.

2. Turn the board over, gently lift up the PCMCIA slot.

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Removing the Modem Phone Jack
1. Remove the modem phone jack from the lower case.

2. This completes the disassembly of the lower case.

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Machine Disassembly

Chapter 4

Troubleshooting
Use the following procedure as a guide for computer problems. Note: The diagnostic tests are intended to test only Acer products. NonAcer products, prototype cards, or modified options can give false errors and invalid system responses. 1. Obtain the failing symptoms in as much detail as possible. 2. Verify the symptoms by attempting to re-create the failure by running the diagnostic test or by repeating the same operation. 3. Use the following table with the verified symptom to determine which page to go to.
Symptoms (Verified) Power failure. (The power indicator does not go on or stay on.) POST does not complete. No beep or error codes are indicated. POST detects an error and displayed messages on screen. The diagnostic test detected an error and displayed a FRU code. Other symptoms (i.e. LCD display problems or others). Symptoms cannot be re-created (intermittent problems). Go To "Power System Check" on page 75. "Error Symptom-to-FRU Index" on page 78. "Undetermined Problems" on page 86 "Error Messages List" on page 78 See "Running PQA Diagnostics Program." on page 45 "Error Symptom-to-FRU Index" on page 78 Use the customer-reported symptoms and go to "Error Symptom-to-FRU Index" on page 78 "Intermittent Problems" on page 86 "Undetermined Problems" on page 86

Chapter 4

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System Check Procedures
Diskette Drive Check
Do the following to isolate the problem to a controller, driver, or diskette. A write-enabled, diagnostic diskette is required. Note: Make sure that the diskette does not have more than one label attached to it. Multiple labels can cause damage to the drive or cause the drive to fail. Do the following to select the test device. See "Running the Diagnostics" for details. 1. Boot from the diagnostics diskette and start the PQA program (See "Running PQA Diagnostics Program." on page 45). 2. Go to the diagnostic Diskette Drive in the test items. 3. Press F2 in the test items. 4. Follow the instructions in the message window. If an error occurs with the internal diskette drive, reconnect the diskette connector on the system board. If the error still remains: 1. Reconnect the diskette drive. 2. Replace the diskette driver cable. 3. Replace the diskette. 4. Replace the system board.

CD-ROM Drive Check
Do the following to isolate the problem to a controller, drive, or CD-ROM. Make sure that the CD-ROM does not have any label attached to it. The label can cause damage to the drive or can cause the drive to fail. Do the following to select the test device: 1. Boot from the diagnostics diskette and start the PQA program (refer to "Running PQA Diagnostics Program". 2. Go to the diagnostic CD-ROM in the test items. 3. Press F2 in the test items. 4. Follow the instructions in the message window. If an error occurs, reconnect the connector on the System board. If the error still remains: 1. Reconnect CD-ROM drive. 74 Troubleshooting

2. Replace the CD-ROM drive. 3. Replace the system board.

Keyboard or Auxiliary Input Device Check
Remove the external keyboard if the internal keyboard is to be tested. If the internal keyboard does not work or an unexpected character appears, make sure that the flexible cable extending from the keyboard is correctly seated in the connector on the system board. If the keyboard cable connection is correct, run the Keyboard Test. See "Running the Diagnostics" for details. If the tests detect a keyboard problem, do the following one at a time to correct the problem. Do not replace a non-defective FRU: 1. Reconnect the keyboard cables. 2. Replace the keyboard. 3. Replace the system board. The following auxiliary input devices are supported by this computer:
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Numeric keypad External keyboard

If any of these devices do not work, reconnect the cable connector and repeat the failing operation.

Memory Check
Memory errors might stop system operations, show error messages on the screen, or hang the system. 1. Boot from the diagnostics diskette and start the PQA program (please refer to "Running PQA Diagnostics Program". 2. Go to the diagnostic memory in the test items. 3. Press F2 in the test items. 4. Follow the instructions in the message window. Note: Make sure that the DIMM is fully installed into the connector. A loose connection can cause an error.

Power System Check
To verify the symptom of the problem, power on the computer using each of the following power sources: 1. Remove the battery pack. Chapter 4 75

2. Connect the power adapter and check that power is supplied. 3. Disconnect the power adapter and install the charged battery pack; then check that power is supplied by the battery pack. If you suspect a power problem, see the appropriate power supply check in the following list:
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"Check the Power Adapter" on page 76 "Check the Battery Pack" on page 76

Check the Power Adapter Unplug the power adapter cable from the computer and measure the output voltage at the plug of the power adapter cable. See the following figure

Pin 1: +19 to +20.5V Pin 2: 0V, Ground

1. If the voltage is not correct, replace the power adapter. 2. If the voltage is within the range, do the following:
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Replace the System board. If the problem is not corrected, see "Undetermined Problems" on page 86. If the voltage is not correct, go to the next step. Note: An audible noise from the power adapter does not always indicate a defect.

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3. If the power problem occurs only when the port replicator is used, replace the port replicator. 4. If the power-on indicator does not light up, check the power cord of the power adapter for correct continuity and installation. 5. If the operational charge does not work, see "Check the Battery Pack" on page 76. Check the Battery Pack To check the battery pack, do the following: 1. Power off the computer.

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Troubleshooting

2. Remove the battery pack and measure the voltage between battery terminals 2(+) and 7(ground). See the following figure

3. If the voltage is still less than 8.0 Vdc after recharging, replace the battery. To check the battery charge operation, use a discharged battery pack or a battery pack that has less than 50% of the total power remaining when installed in the computer. If the battery status indicator does not light up, remove the battery pack and let it return to room temperature. Reinstall the battery pack. If the charge indicator still does not light up, replace the battery pack. If the charge indicator still does not light up, replace the DC/DC charger board.

Touchpad Check
If the touchpad do