Page 1 PROPRIETARY NOTICE AND LIABILITY DISCLAIMER The information disclosed in this document, including all designs and related materials, is the valuable property of NEC Corporation (NEC) and/or its licensors. NEC and/or its licensors, as appropriate, reserve all patent, copyright and other...
Page 2: Using This Guide
This Versa™ P Series User’s Guide contains all the infor- mation you need to use your notebook computer. To help you get the most out of your Versa P, this guide describes system features, options, and setup programs. Read the following chapters to find out more about your Versa P.
Page 3: Text Setup
Chapter 7 provides telephone numbers for NEC help and information lines. This chapter guides you to locating the help you need for basic system service or upgrades. Chapter 8 provides switch setting information on SW1. Appendix A lists system specifications.
Page 4: Related Documents
In addition to this guide, a number of other documents ship with your Versa P system, including: Hardware Documents The Versa P Quick Setup shows you how to set up your system after you unpack it. The Versa P Series Battery Guide gives hints about extending the life of your battery pack and suggests energy conserving techniques.
Page 5: Table Of Contents
Opening the LCD Panel........Closing the LCD Panel ........Connecting the AC Adapter ......... Installing a Battery ..........Replacing a Battery ..........Turning on the Versa P..........1-11 Features ..............1-13 LCD Panel ............1-13 Keyboard ............1-14 Function Keys ..........1-14 Key Combinations..........
Page 6 Using Animation Files ......... Versa MediaDock..........ultimedia Applications..........Adding Options PCMCIA Cards ............Inserting and Removing Cards ......Modems ..............Telephone Line Connections ........ Connecting a Phone Cable ......Connecting a Phone and a Versa P....Memory Expansion ..........iv Contents...
Page 7 Hard Disk ..............3-10 External Devices ............3-13 Parallel Devices........... 3-13 Serial Devices ............. 3-15 External Keyboard ..........3-16 Mouse..............3-18 Monitor............... 3-19 Stereo Speakers/Headphones ....... 3-21 External Microphone ........... 3-21 Line-In Audio............3-21 Docking Station............3-22 Expansion Bays........... 3-22 Expansion Slots...........
Page 8 Direct Technical Support........Remote Technical Support........Features ............If You Need Help UltraCare Support............ Support from the NEC Reseller ........ Support from NEC ........... NEC FastFacts............ NEC Bulletin Board System ........ What is the BBS? ........... How Do You Use the BBS?......
Page 9 Setting Switch Functions Specifications NEC Communications Assistant Using the BIOS Update Utility Receiving the BUU........... Start-Up..............Menu Functions ............Information ............Display BIOS Version......... Customize BIOS ............Install New BIOS ..........C-10 Restore Original BIOS ........C-12 Exit..............C-14 Errors and Messages ........... C-14...
Page 10 viii Contents...
Page 11: Getting To Know Your New Information Tool
Read it to familiarize yourself with the system. WHAT’S IN THE BOX Your Versa P comes with lots of features fully loaded on the system. All you have to do is open the packing box, unpack the notebook computer, the cables, and the Quick Setup sheet.
Page 12: The Outside Of The Unit
THE OUTSIDE OF THE UNIT Look over the outside of the Versa P for the external ports, buttons, and features without opening the LCD panel. Some of the ports on the back of the system are behind a protective cover.
Page 13 CRT port — allows you to attach a super VGA external monitor for use with your system. Serial port — lets you attach a serial device, like a serial printer, to your Versa P. Printer port — provides a place to connect an external device, like a printer.
Page 14 Power connector port — lets you plug in the AC adapter so you can run the Versa P on AC power. The following figure shows the features on the sides and front of the Versa P.
Page 15: Versa P Setup
PCMCIA Pak and a Video Pak. Diskette drive — lets you use diskettes with the system. Hard disk — this contains the system software to oper- ate the Versa P. VERSA P SETUP Setting up your system is easy. Just follow these simple instructions.
Page 16: Closing The Lcd Panel
Position the LCD panel to a comfortable viewing angle. You can open the screen to an angle of 180 degrees. NOTE: Do not attempt to change LCD panels while system power is on. You can, however, reverse the panel so it faces the other way while system power is on but in Suspend mode.
Page 17: Installing A Battery
Insert the matching end of the AC power cable into the AC adapter. CAUTION: Only use the AC adapter model pro- vided with your notebook. Connect the other end of the AC power cable to a 100- to 240-volt wall outlet. Installing a Battery It is easy to install a battery in your notebook computer.
Page 18: Replacing A Battery
If the system is attached to AC power, you need not put it in Suspend mode. Close the LCD panel securely. Disconnect any external options you have connected. Turn the Versa P upside down. 1-8 Getting to Know Your New Information Tool...
Page 19 Slide the new battery into the system until the release latch clicks and locks the battery in place. Turn the Versa P right side up and reconnect any external options you disconnected. Resume the system or turn on power to continue operation.
Page 20 Getting to Know Your New Information Tool 1-9...
Page 21 Replace the diskette drive with a secondary battery as follows. Turn off the system power (if using battery power) or suspend. Turn the Versa P upside down. Slide the appropriate bottom release latch while pulling the diskette drive out of the compartment. Diskette Drive...
Page 22: Turning On The Versa P
Check that your power source is connected. For battery power, make sure a charged battery pack is installed in the Versa P. (See the previous section for information about installing a battery pack.) For AC power, make sure the AC adapter is plugged into the Versa P and a wall outlet.
Page 23 Open the LCD panel, if it is not already open. Locate the power button. Pull forward, momentarily hold, and then release the power button. Power Button Pressing the power button Adjust the brightness control using the button on the right of the LCD panel for a sharp, clear display. You are now ready to familiarize yourself with your new Versa.
Page 24: Features
These features are described next. LCD Panel Your Versa P comes with a TFT color LCD panel. The active- matrix thin-film transistor (TFT) color LCD comes in one of two resolutions: 640 x 480 pixels or 800 x 600 pixels.
Page 25: Keyboard
The Fn (Function) key activates functions printed in blue on keys having dual functions. Function Keys Function keys Some special functions are specific to the Versa P systems. These keys set specific parameters that are built into ROM (Read-Only Memory). 1-14 Getting to Know Your New Information Tool...
Page 26: Key Combinations
Key Combinations The key combinations for system-specific functions are as follows. Right Control Use to simulate pressing the right control key for support of IBM/SDLC connections. Highlight Highlight Use to set the color LCD contrast to standard or full high- light for DOS text mode.
Page 27 P/M Lev Power Management Levels Use to set the power management level to off, custom, low, or high. Notice the changes in the faucet icons on the LCD panel as you toggle the key combination. This works only when power management is enabled. Hard Disk Drive Spin Up/Down Use to spin the hard disk up or down.
Page 28: Typewriter Keys
Typewriter Keys The typewriter keys (also called alphanumeric keys) are used almost exactly as on a typewriter. Those that behave differently do so when combined with control keys or func- tion keys. They are noted in those descriptions. Cursor Control Keys Cursor control keys let you position the cursor on the screen where you want.
Page 29 Getting to Know Your New Information Tool 1-17...
Page 30 When you press Num Lock again, the keys revert to their normal function as typewriter keys and the Num Lock icon disappears. Function Keys Numeric keypad 1-18 Getting to Know Your New Information Tool...
Page 31: Control Keys
See the documentation that comes with the applications. VersaTrack Ball The VersaTrack ball, located on the front of the Versa P, works as a mouse — you use it to control the movement of the pointer in Windows and any other application that supports a mouse.
Page 32: Cleaning The Versatrack
Click the left button to select a function and click the right button to cancel a function. Quickly pressing either button twice is double clicking. Rotating the ball with either button pressed is dragging. VersaTrack VersaTrack Cover VersaTrack ball Cleaning the VersaTrack Periodically, you need to clean the ball and the rollers inside the VersaTrack.
Page 33: Buttons And Controls
VersaTrack cover with the system, and push the cover to secure it into place. Buttons and Controls Versa P buttons and controls let you turn on your computer, use power-saving Suspend mode, and control the brightness and contrast of your screen. These controls are described next.
Page 34 Power Button — controls power to the system. Pull, momentarily hold, and then release the power button to turn the system on. Pull the power button again to turn the system off. TIP: After turning off the system, wait at least two seconds before turning the system back on.
Page 35: Status Bar
A brighter adjustment uses more battery power. For longer battery life, decrease the brightness. Status Bar The Versa P has an LCD status indicator bar located above the keyboard. It shows status for the following system functions and components. Status Bar...
Page 36 Indicates that power management is not enabled. Indicates that power management is set at low. High Indicates that high power management is set. Custom Indicates that custom power management features are set. Hard Disk Drive Access Indicates that the hard disk drive is being accessed. Diskette Drive Access Indicates that the diskette drive is being accessed.
Page 37 Scroll Lock Indicates that the scroll lock function is enabled. Caps Lock Indicates that the all capital letter lock function is enabled. Battery The left battery icon represents the primary battery and the right battery icon represents the secondary battery. Bars within the battery icons represent the remaining bat- tery charge when the system is in use: 4 bars indicate a 76-100% charge...
Page 38 Connect the AC adapter and fully charge the battery. (See the Versa P Series Battery Guide.) Eight solid blinking bars indicate an abnormal battery status. The battery pack may not be installed correctly, or is defective.
Page 39: Microphone And Speaker
Microphone and Speaker The microphone and speaker are located above the keyboard. The internal microphone lets you record audio informa- tion in your system data files. The speaker allows you to hear previously recorded sound. Speaker Microphone Microphone and speaker Getting to Know Your New Information Tool 1-27...
Page 40: Pcmcia Card Slots
Refer to the Versa Series PCMCIA User’s Guide for information on card types. The PCMCIA slots in your Versa P are located on the left side of the unit stacked one above the other. Slot 0 is in the lower position, Slot 1 is above it.
Page 41: Versabay
PCMCIA card slots in your system. Promotional Software Your Versa P has some selective software bundled with it to give you a sampling of its capabilities. It includes an offi- cial airline guide (OAG) which is published monthly and provides current flight scheduling information.
Page 42: Batteries
PCMCIA cards as well as warm insertion and removal of devices attached to the Versa P’s external ports and devices attached to the Versa P port replicator ports such as PS/2- style keyboard, mouse, and monitors. Hot insertion means that the system is on and in Active mode while cards are added;...
Page 43 The bridge battery is easy to keep charged. You recharge the bridge battery whenever you plug in the AC adapter. It’s a good idea to leave your Versa P plugged in for 24 hours at least once a month to ensure that your bridge battery is fully charged.
Page 44: Cmos Battery
NEC about CMOS battery re- placement. (Refer to Chapter 7, “If You Need Help” ) Online Help The Versa P has online help to assist you when you have questions about using the system. Access the online help as follows.
Page 45: System Care
SYSTEM CARE The Versa P is a durable, dependable system built for extensive use and travel. Follow these guidelines to maintain the condition and performance of your computer. Precautions Adhere to the following precautions when using your Versa P and AC adapter.
Page 46: Storage Requirements
Special screen wipes are available through your local computer dealer. System case — If the Versa P case gets dirty, carefully wipe it with a slightly damp, almost dry cloth. Be extremely careful not to drip any moisture onto or into the Versa P.
Page 47: Using Your Versa P For Multimedia
Using Your Versa P for Multimedia The P in Versa P is for performance, power, professional, and Pentium. With its fast Pentium™ processor and enhanced audio and video capabilities, you can perform fantastic multimedia feats with your Versa P! This chapter describes the Versa P’s multimedia features and how you...
Page 48: Line-In
VCRs, and CD players through the Line-In port. Microphone level inputs come through the microphone port. Line-In Analog signals come in through the Versa P’s Line-In port. The analog signals are converted into digital bits and bytes (digitized) through a converter known as an ADC (analog- to-digital converter).
Page 49: Cd-Rom Input
The CD-ROM can be connected through a parallel to SCSI port. The MultiSpin CD-ROM Reader is QuickTime compatible. You can also connect a CD-ROM reader to your Versa P through a Versa Series Docking Station (I or II). Mixing With the proper application software, you can mix analog and digital sounds to produce an overall quality effect.
Page 50: Midi Files
Versa P. You can adjust the volume with the audio software on the Versa P or, if your headphones have one, a built-in volume control. Using Internal Speaker The Versa P has a built-in mono speaker that is always available.
Page 51: Video
VIDEO The Versa P features a dazzling TFT 64K color high resolution display for sharp effective visuals right on the Versa or projected onto an external CRT monitor. The Versa P’s super VGA TFT display has the industry’s first high resolution of 800 x 600 pixels.
Page 52: Ultimedia Applications
With animation software, you can create realistic 3-D effects or 3-D titles. The authoring packages enable you to pull together all the elements of your design into an exciting, interactive multi- media presentation. 2-6 Using Your Versa P for Multimedia...
Page 53: Adding Options
Adding Options You can add a number of options and connect a number of external devices to your Versa P system. This chapter describes procedures for adding the following options: PCMCIA cards Modems Expansion memory Hard disk External devices Parallel devices, like parallel printers...
Page 54: Pcmcia Cards
LAN card, additional memory, SCSI, and extra hard disk storage. The Versa P can handle up to the following numbers of Type I, II, or III PCMCIA cards and card combinations. Up to two Type I cards...
Page 55: Inserting And Removing Cards
NOTE: Cards draw power even when not in use. Be sure to eject cards when not in use. Check CardView; it should show an empty slot. If you'd like to know more about PCMCIA cards and NEC Versa series computers, see the Versa Series PCMCIA User's Guide.
Page 56: Modems
MODEMS Using a modem and a phone line, you can communicate using your Versa P — send faxes and E-mails, access in- formation services, transfer data. Telephone Line Connections Before you can connect the Versa P to a telephone line, you must install a PCMCIA modem into the system.
Page 57 Follow these steps to connect your system to a phone line. Insert the PCMCIA modem into one of the Versa’s PCMCIA slots. Connect the telephone cable adapter to the modem card. Modem Adapter Connecting the adapter Connect one end of the modular telephone cable to the adapter’s telephone jack.
Page 58: Connecting A Phone And A Versa P
To connect both your system and a telephone to the wall outlet, use a dual-RJ11 connector. Use the following proce- dure to attach a dual-RJ11 connector. Insert the PCMCIA modem into one of the Versa P’s PCMCIA slots. Connect the modem’s adapter to the PCMCIA modem.
Page 59 Unplug the telephone cable from the wall outlet. Connect the cable to one of the two available jacks of the dual- RJ11 connector and to the telephone. Connect another telephone cable to the other available jack of the dual-RJ11 connector and to the wall outlet. Using a dual-RJ11 connector TIP: When using a modem outside the U.S.
Page 60: Memory Expansion
MEMORY EXPANSION Your Versa P comes with 8 megabytes (MB) of random access memory (RAM). You can increase system memory to a maximum of 40 MB by installing install any of the following memory modules in the system. 4-MB memory card...
Page 61 Install the memory card as follows. Align the memory card connector with the connector in the system. Insert the card connector by sliding it into the system connector. Press the card to make sure it is securely seated. Memory Card Inserting a memory card Replace the disk compartment cover.
Page 62 Adding Options 3-9...
Page 63: Hard Disk
HARD DISK You can increase the system's storage capacity by replacing the standard hard disk. NOTE: Before you replace your hard disk drive, be sure you have backed up or transferred your files. Use the following procedure to replace the hard disk. Check that the Versa power is off.
Page 64 Swing the drive lever down and pull the drive out of the compartment. Drive Lever Drive lever Adding Options 3-11...
Page 65 Insert the new drive by sliding it into the compartment. Swing the drive lever up and press firmly to make sure the drive is fully seated. Hard Disk Installing a hard disk Replace the disk compartment cover. Replace the memory compartment cover. Run Auto Setup to check the new configuration.
Page 66: External Devices
NOTE: Before you connect a printer, be sure you have installed the appropriate printer driver through the Windows Control Panel. To connect a parallel device to your Versa P, do the following. Check that both the Versa and device power are off.
Page 67 Align and connect the other end of the cable to the parallel port on the device. Lock the connector clips. Connector Clips Screws Connecting a parallel device Connect the power cable to the device and a properly grounded wall outlet. Turn on power to the system and the device.
Page 68: Serial Devices
Turn on power to the system and the device. NOTE: Make sure your printer is on line before trying to print. See the printer guide for instructions. NOTE: You can also use the serial port to connect an external modem to your Versa P. Adding Options 3-15...
Page 69: External Keyboard
External Keyboard You can add a full-size PS/2-style keyboard to your Versa P using the Plug and Play feature. You can still use the system keyboard while an external keyboard is con- nected. NOTE: You cannot attach an external keyboard and external mouse to the system at the same time;...
Page 70 3-16 Adding Options...
Page 71 Connect the keyboard cable connector to the keyboard port on the system. (The keyboard/mouse port is the first one.) Connecting an external keyboard Press the Suspend button again to resume Active mode. The system will immediately recognize the keyboard. After you connect an external keyboard, you can use both the built-in keyboard and external keyboard simultaneously.
Page 72: Mouse
Mouse You can add an external mouse to your Versa P to use in place of the VersaTrack ball for moving the pointer. Use the following procedure to connect a PS/2-style mouse to the system. The Plug and Play feature allows you to do this with the system powered on, but in Suspend mode.
Page 73: Monitor
(usually provided with the monitor). One end of the cable must have a male 15-pin connector for the system. (See the back of the Versa P, behind the left-rear cover, for the monitor connector.) Follow these steps to connect an external monitor to your Versa P.
Page 74 Turn on power to the monitor. Press the Suspend button to resume Active mode or power on the Versa P. See the section on Function Keys in Chapter 1 for informa- tion about using both the LCD and CRT monitor.
Page 75: Stereo Speakers/Headphones
1/8-inch stereo connector. External Microphone An external microphone plugs into the microphone (MIC) port on the rear of the Versa P. The port accepts a mini- type 1/8-inch connector. Line-In Audio You can receive audio input from CD players, VCRs, and tape decks to your Versa P.
Page 76: Docking Station
DOCKING STATION The Versa docking station is an option that lets you turn your portable computer into a desktop or a full-blown multi- media station. It features expansion bays and slots, and extra ports for connecting peripherals. See the Versa Series Docking Station User's Guide or the Versa Series Docking Station II User's Guide for instructions on connecting the docking station.
Page 77: Port Replicator
The Versa port replicator option provides you with the con- venience of a dock at your desk. without taking up a lot of space. With your Versa P securely attached to a port repli- cator, you can have one connection with all your peripheral resources —...
Page 78 The Versa P has a combined mouse/keyboard port. The port replicator allows you to have separate mouse and key- board ports. NOTE: Access to the external headphone, micro- phone and line-in jacks is not possible with the replica- tor attached.
Page 79: Understanding Power Management
Understanding Power Management WHAT IS POWER MANAGEMENT? Power Management in the Versa P lets you conserve energy, save battery power, extend the life of your LCD backlight, and protect against data loss due to low battery power. You can set some features to function automatically or activate them manually with the keyboard or a button.
Page 80: Power-Saving Modes
You can modify the custom level for your specific working environment using Auto Setup. Default values change de- pending on the type of power management you use. Power-Saving Modes The Versa P has three different power consumption states: Active mode Local Stand-by mode Suspend mode.
Page 81: Suspend Mode
If the notebook has been shut, the LCD comes back on and the system returns to Active mode when it’s reopened (unless it’s in Suspend mode). Suspend Mode Suspend mode is a power-saving mode that shuts down all possible devices in the system while retaining data and system status.
Page 82: Smart Power Switch
You can toggle between Suspend mode and Active mode. You can set your system to enter Suspend mode automati- cally after a specified number of minutes of system inactivity. You specify how long system inactivity elapses before the system enters Suspend mode. System activity includes keyboard, VersaTrack, diskette or hard disk drive access, PCMCIA modem, network, or LAN card, serial, or printer port communications.
Page 83: Prolonging Battery Life
Suspend mode lets you stop working and return to where you left off. Turn off the system when you are finished using it. Close the Versa P notebook. When you close the note- book, the LCD panel sensor automatically shuts off the LCD.
Page 84: Using Auto Setup
Using Auto Setup Your Versa P comes with a hardware setup program called Auto Setup that allows you to view and set system parameters. Auto Setup also includes security features that protect your system from unauthorized use. The system has two sets of internal settings: one mobile and one docked.
Page 85: How To Enter Auto Setup
to identify which parameter(s) changed. Auto Setup indicates specific hardware changes with blinking double carets (>>). to confirm that any optional memory you added was installed correctly. to customize your system. How to Enter Auto Setup When it is enabled (it comes that way from the factory), you can access Auto Setup at power-on, when the cursor changes to a block character ( ).
Page 86: How To Use Auto Setup
After you press F1, the system displays a message indicat- ing that it is collecting Auto Setup data. After the message, the Auto Setup Summary screen appears. The summary screen displays the current hardware parameters of your computer. See “How to Use Auto Setup” for information about using Auto Setup.
Page 87: Using Key Functions
Menu bar — top line of the screen. This line contains user-selectable menu options. Parameter list — middle of the screen. This list provides current parameter information. Selecting a parameter from the list (using the menu bar) opens a pop-up window.
Page 88: Checking/Setting System Parameters
Checking/Setting System Parameters If it finds no error condition, Auto Setup starts at the summary screen. If there is an error condition, Auto Setup displays the discrepancy in the appropriate parameter window. Use the following steps to view or change system parameters.
Page 89: System Parameter Options
Select a setting as follows. Press to position your cursor on the parameter setting. Press Enter to select the new setting. Auto Setup rec- ords the change, exits the window, and returns you to the parameter window. Repeat steps 3, 4, and 5 to set parameters in the same parameter menu.
Page 90: System Parameter Options
System Parameter Options MENU/PARAMETER DEFAULT SETTING Comms Serial Port 3F8h–3FFh IRQ4 Parallel Port 378h-37Fh IRQ7 (LPT1) Parallel Port Mode Unidirectional Drives Diskette Drive A 1.44 MB — 3.5” Diskette Drive B Not installed Hard Disk Drive 1 Auto Detect Hard Disk Drive 2 Not installed IDE Hard Disk Drive Interface Internal only/Enable...
Page 91: Comms
Unless you are connecting the Versa P to a docking station equipped with additional diskette drives or hard drives, you do not need to change Diskette Drive or Hard Disk Drive parameter settings.
Page 92: Keyboard
Drive options include the following: IDE Hard Disk Interface Allows you to select the internal IDE controller, the docking station’s IDE controller if the system is docked, both internal controller and docking station, or to disable the interface completely. Diskette Boot When disabled, prevents boot-up from the diskette drive.
Page 93: Power
) lets you select the level of power management, suspend mode, and suspend/resume options. Power Management The Versa P’s ability to manage power can be set to high, low, custom, or turned off completely. A “High” setting provides maximum power saving. “Low” sets minimal savings and “Off”...
Page 94 Suspend Mode Suspend mode has a method of operation called Suspend/Resume that stores information in RAM and maintains RAM contents after shutting down all local devices. Backlight Use this option to set the backlight to either standard or full. Using the lower “standard” setting saves power. Highlight Use this option to set the character brightness to either standard or full.
Page 95: System
System The System option ( ) lets you set the following system parameters. Quick Boot Setup Lock The Quick Boot option removes certain tests from POST to reduce the time needed to boot the system. The Setup Lock option is a security feature which, when set to disable, keeps unauthorized users from changing system parameters at power on.
Page 96: Security Options
SECURITY OPTIONS Your system supports a system password for system security. System Password The system password protects your data by allowing your system to boot only after you enter a password. When a system password is set, you must enter the pass- word before you can enter Auto Setup.
Page 97: Using The System Password
Save the changes and exit Auto Setup. NOTE: Once you set a system password, you can- not edit or disable it in Auto Setup. If you want to change or remove it, see “Removing/Replacing a Password” in this chapter. The next section tells you how to use your system password.
Page 98: Removing/Replacing A Password
If you enter the password incorrectly, your system does not boot. You have three chances to enter the correct password. After the third unsuccessful attempt, you must power off your system and try again. Removing/Replacing a Password You can remove a password and you can replace a current password with a new one.
Page 99: Keyboard Lock Hotkey
Keyboard Lock Hotkey The Keyboard Lock Hotkey option allows you to lock your keyboard for additional security when you are away from your Versa. This option works only if you have set a pass- word in Auto Setup. The Lock option appears on the Auto Setup screen only af- ter you have enabled a password.
Page 100: Problem Solving
Problem Solving The Versa P has a built-in checking program that automati- cally tests its components when you turn the system power on. This diagnostic test is called the Power-On Self-Test (POST). If the system finds a problem during the POST, the system displays an error message.
Page 101 System Configuration switch 1 may be in the up position (on). Move switch 1 down and retry flashing a BIOS. Troubleshooting PROBLEM WHAT TO DO The system does not If you are operating the system with battery power, power on check that the battery pack is correctly inserted.
Page 102: Start-Up Problems
Troubleshooting PROBLEM WHAT TO DO The suspend button Power management is disabled in Auto Setup. does not work A disk drive might be busy. Wait until the disk drive stops and try again. The docking station might be connected to the Versa.
Page 103: Post Error Messages
If an error message appears before the operating system starts, look up the error message in the following table. Follow the instructions. If you see other error messages, the hardware might need repair. NOTE: When the Versa detects an error related to display devices, it cannot display on either the LCD or a CRT.
Page 104 POST Error Messages MESSAGE WHAT TO DO Invalid configuration One or more system configuration parameters information – run are not properly set. Start Auto Setup, set Setup program them correctly, and exit and save to update the parameters. Real time clock Set time and date using Auto Setup.
Page 105: If You Need Assistance
If you have a problem with your computer, first review the checklist and troubleshooting table in the previous section. If you still have a problem, call the NEC Technical Support Center (TSC), toll free, at 1-800-632-4525. Direct technical assistance is available Monday through Friday, between 8:30 a.m.
Page 106: Remote Technical Support
Follow these steps to prepare your system for remote sup- port. You must have a modem installed in the system and connected to a telephone line. With the system power off, insert the NEC Hardware Utilities diskette into the diskette drive. Turn on the system power. A menu appears.
Page 107: Features
Features Remote Support Session has the following features: The remote screen (technician's screen) looks like your computer's screen. The technician can access data, run and control applica- tions on your system, and print reports using the remote keyboard and mouse. Or the technician can simply observe your computer’s operations.
Page 108: If You Need Help
NEC products. CS&S offers many programs and options from which to choose to keep your NEC Versa P working at peak performance. Warranty information and resources outlined in this chapter apply if you purchased your system in the United States or Canada.
Page 109 This means that anywhere in the U.S. or Canada, your Versa P is covered — no matter what the problem — by the NEC warranty. If you are enrolled in UltraCare, your Versa P is covered anywhere in the U.S.
Page 110: Ultracare Support
NEC’s factory repair depot. When you enroll in UltraCare, NEC sends you a package of registration materials within 30 days. The materials include a registration decal to attach to your system, a special toll- free number for UltraCare customers only, and details about using the program.
Page 111: Support From The Nec Reseller
Your NEC reseller is prepared to provide technical and service support. The reseller should have a thorough under- standing of how your NEC product is set up and operates. NEC resellers receive special training and are equipped to resolve most hardware and software questions that you may have.
Page 112: Nec Fastfacts
Quick reference guides Troubleshooting information. NEC Bulletin Board System The NEC Electronic Bulletin Board System (BBS) is available to all customers free of charge. If you dial us directly at (508) 635-4706, your only expense is the cost of the phone call. The BBS is also accessible through CompuServe for customers who are already members.
Page 113: What Is The Bbs
A Message Menu containing an interactive e-mail network that lets you leave messages for members of the NEC support staff and correspond with other BBS members. A Bulletin Menu that contains online help, important NEC Technologies’...
Page 114: Nec Technical Support
Data bits — 8 Stop bits — 1. NEC Technical Support NEC offers a free technical support service to use if you have a technical problem that cannot be resolved by your dealer. NEC’s technical support can help you with ques- tions about software and hardware compatibility, operating system software issues, and using the products.
Page 115: Nec Customer Service Response Center
Friday, between 8:30 a.m. and 8:00 p.m., EST. The NEC service and repair network includes the following: 250 premier level TotalService Preferred servicers 1350 NEC Authorized Service Centers (NASC) Mail-in to an NEC repair depot (for warranty and out- of-warranty products). 7-8 If You Need Help...
Page 116: Mail-In Service
UltraCare, a local authorized dealer, or if the warranty has expired. You can mail your NEC product to one of four repair depots located across the U.S. and Canada. Arrange for mail-in service through the CSRC at 1-800-632-4525.
Page 117 Setting Switch Functions This chapter provides switch setting information that you might need to configure your system for a particular appli- cation or system requirement. The switches that configure your system are the System Configuration switches, a block of four switches on the system beneath the memory compartment cover.
Page 118 To change System Configuration switch settings, follow these steps. WARNING: The system power must be off before changing a switch setting. Turn off the system. Remove the memory compartment cover. Locate the switches. Change the appropriate switch setting using a pointed instrument, such as a ballpoint pen.
Page 119: Specifications
Specifications The following specifications are standard except where noted. System Processor Intel Pentium P54C-75 MHz Random Access Memory (RAM) Standard size — 8-MB high-speed (interleaved access) Optional — expandable in 4-MB, 8-MB, 12-MB, 16-MB, 32-MB increments Video RAM — 1 MB Cache RAM —...
Page 120 Stereo Headphone — 1 port, 3-pin mini-jack Line-In Port — 1 port, 3-pin mini-jack External Keyboard/External Mouse — 1 port, 6-pin MiniDin; exclusionsary use Expansion — 1 port, 198-pin providing ISA bus, VGA CRT signal, external keyboard signal, PS/2 mouse signal, power supply bus Sound signal Card Slots Two slots for two Type I/Type II PCMCIA cards or one...
Page 121 Diskette Drive Standard 1.44-MB drive Size — 3.5 inch Capacity — 720 KB or 1.44 MB Access Time (average) —94 ms Transfer Rate — 500k bps Interleave 1:1 Hard Disk Drive Internal 2.5-inch, 340-MB, 540-MB, or 810-MB drive Power AC Adapter Input Voltage —...
Page 122 Dimensions System Unit Width — 11.69 in. (297 mm) Depth — 9.51 in. (241.5 mm) Height — 2.1 in. (53 mm), 2.2 in. (56 mm) Battery Pack Width — 4.2 in. (108 mm) Depth — 4.5 in. (114.5 mm) Height — 0.85 in. (21.8 mm) Weight System —...
Page 123: Nec Communications Assistant
You can find the NEC Communications Assistant icon in the Versa Help program group in Windows. Use the always- on-top feature while you are using a communications pack- age for faxing or file transfer. This keeps it handy for when you need it.
Page 124: Using The Bios Update Utility
To perform a BIOS update, you need a BIOS Update Diskette (BUD). The BUD, which contains the latest version of the BIOS code, can be obtained through NEC Technologies, Inc. or through the NEC Bulletin Board System (BBS) .
Page 125 The BIOS Update utility identifies and saves the currently installed BIOS version before installing the new version. This permits the old version to be restored, if desired, after the new BIOS has been installed. If you have more than one system, each should have its own BIOS Update diskette.
Page 126 Make sure the diskette is not write protected. If you attempt to use a diskette that has updated another system, a message warns that you may not be able to restore the system's original BIOS. If you are updating more than one system, use the MS-DOS DISKCOPY command to make a copy of the original diskette for each system before using the diskette.
Page 127: Receiving The Buu
RECEIVING THE BUU If you obtained a BUD from NEC, continue to the next sec- tion, “Start-Up.” Otherwise, use the following procedure to download the latest version of the BIOS Update utility to a diskette. This procedure assumes you are using an optional modem.
Page 128 Log onto the BBS by dialing (508) 635-4706. Press Enter twice. Enter your first name, last name, and password when prompted. Press after each. Enter Follow the screen prompts until the NECTECH Main Menu is displayed. The prompts require that you do the following .
Page 129: Start-Up
After the download has successfully completed, log off the BBS. If you have not copied the download to your Versa P hard disk, do so now. Insert a blank diskette in the drive and execute the downloaded file. For example, if you downloaded LxxxnB3.EXE (where n is the BIOS revision level), type the following: LxxxnB3.EXE...
Page 130: Menu Functions
Press Enter to continue. The utility checks the currently installed BIOS version and the diskette's BIOS versions. If the BIOS can be up- dated, the Main Menu appears. If there is a problem, the appropriate message is displayed. MENU FUNCTIONS Use the Main Menu to update your BIOS version;...
Page 131: Display Bios Version
Display BIOS Version Use this option to display the currently installed BIOS version and the version of the new replacement BIOS. A message similar to the one below appears. The currently installed BIOS version: xx.xx.xx The new BIOS version: xx.xx.xx Press any key to continue.
Page 132: Customize Bios
CUSTOMIZE BIOS This allows you to install custom BIOS options. This customization takes place when you install the new BIOS. When selected, a message similar to the one following appears. Customize BIOS Features Edit Sign-on Message View Sign-on Messsage Clear Sign-on Message Edit The edit option allows you to create or change a custom sign-on message.
Page 133: Install New Bios
Install New BIOS This menu option first saves the system's original BIOS to the diskette and then installs the new BIOS. Be sure to choose the Customize BIOS feature, if desired, before selecting this option. After the installation is completed, it resets the system to enable the new BIOS.
Page 134 The following warning appears after you press any key. ***Update Now in Progress*** Warning! During this procedure DO NOT reset, turn the power off, or otherwise disturb the system. This procedure may require 10 to 60 seconds. A continuous sound pattern means a failure. If this occurs, see your user’s guide The utility updates the BIOS and resets the system to make the new version operational.
Page 135: Restore Original Bios
Restore Original BIOS Use this option to restore your previous BIOS from the update diskette. If your system BIOS has not been updated, this function does nothing. A message indicates the new BIOS must be installed before the original BIOS can be restored.
Page 136 The following warning appears after you press any key. ***Update Now in Progress*** Warning! During this procedure DO NOT reset, turn the power off, or otherwise disturb the system. This procedure may require 10 to 60 seconds. A continuous sound pattern means a failure. If this occurs, see your user’s guide The utility restores the previous BIOS and resets the system to make the previous version operational.
Page 137: Errors And Messages
Or, the system was warm booted instead of cold booted. If you still have a problem, contact techni- cal support or your NEC dealer for update information. A message informing you that the system's version of BIOS cannot be updated by the diskette because it is not a supported revision.
Page 138 Be sure that System Configuration switch SW1–1 is set to the OFF (enable) position. Contact technical support or your NEC dealer for update information. A message indicating that the update is in progress. You should not disturb the system in any way while this screen appears.
Page 139: Glossary
Glossary AC Adapter A device that connects a Versa portable computer and an AC wall outlet to provide AC power for running the system or recharging the battery. A/D Conversion The process of converting an analog signal into a digital signal.
Page 140 Binary digit. The smallest unit of computer data. bits per second (bps) A unit of transmission. Also called baud rate. board Printed circuit board. Board onto which computer components are soldered and thin wires are printed to connect the components. boot To start up a computer.
Page 141 CMOS Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor. A chip that contains nonvolatile memory in the Versa. CMOS is backed up by an internal lithium battery that preserves clock/calendar data and system configuration parameters stored in CMOS. cold boot Process of starting up the computer by turning on the power.
Page 142 digital audio Recorded sounds such as speech and sound effects. These are played back by the sound card’s Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC). digital sound A description of a sound wave that consists of binary num- bers. digitizing The process of converting an analog signal into a digital representation.
Page 143 hard disk A rigid magnetic storage device that provides fast access to stored data. hardware The electrical and mechanical parts from which a computer is made. hertz (Hz) A unit of frequency equal to one cycle per second. hot key Combination of two or three keys (such as ) that Ctrl-Alt-D...
Page 144 Local Area Network. Liquid Crystal Display. An LCD consists of a thin sand- wich of two glass plates with sealed edges, containing nematic liquid-crystal material that forms the screen image. Versa displays are LCD type. load To copy a program into the computer's memory from a storage device.
Page 145 mode A method of operation; for example, the Versa operates in either normal or power-saving modes. modem MOdulator-DEModulator. A device that links computers over a telephone line. multimedia Computer technology that integrates different forms of media such as sound, text, graphics, and video. nonvolatile memory Storage media that retains its data when system power is turned off.
Page 146 parallel printer A printer with a parallel interface. parameter A characteristic of a device or system. password A string of characters that the user must enter before the system allows access or system privileges. PCMCIA A credit card sized peripheral interface standard for port- able devices.
Page 147 Random Access Memory. A storage device into which data is entered and from which data is retrieved in a nonsequential manner. read To extract data from a storage device such as a diskette. Read-Only Memory. Memory in which stored data cannot be modified by the user except under special conditions.
Page 148 serial printer A printer with a serial interface. software Programs that run on a computer such as operating systems, word processors, and spreadsheets. system board The main printed circuit board inside the system unit into which other boards and major chip components, such as the system microprocessor, are connected.
Page 149 warm boot Process of resetting the computer without turning off the power through keyboard input (pressing , and Ctrl keys simultaneously) or the reset button. The system returns to an initial or arbitrarily selected condition. waveform A graphic representation of a sound wave as displayed on an oscilloscope, which converts sound waves into electronic signals.
Page 150 (For United States Use Only) FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION RADIO FREQUENCY INTERFERENCE STATEMENT WARNING: Changes or modifications to this unit not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment. NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Page 151 If the modem malfunctions, all repairs should be performed by NEC Technologies or an NEC Authorized Service Center. It is the responsibility of users requiring service to report the need for service to NEC Technologies or to an NEC Author- ized Service Center.
Page 152 (For Canadian Use Only) This equipment is a Class B digital apparatus which complies with the Radio Interference Regulations, C.R.C., c.1374. Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme àu Règlement sur le brouillage radioélectrique, C.R.C., ch.1374. Canadian Department of Communications Modem Connection Requirements NOTE: The Canadian Department of Communications label identifies certified equipment.
Page 153 A lithium battery in your computer maintains system configuration information. In the event that the battery fails to maintain system configuration information, NEC recommends that you replace the battery. See the Versa P Battery Guide for battery replacement information. WARNING: There is a danger of explosion if the battery is incorrectly replaced.

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NEC VERSA P Manual

Using this Guide

1 Getting to Know Your New Information Tool

2 Using Your Versa P for Multimedia

3 Adding Options

4 Understanding Power Management

5 Using Auto Setup

6 Problem Solving

7 If You Need Help

NEC Communications Assistant

Using the BIOS Update Utility

Glossary

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