Compaq PRESARIO 250029-001 Getting Started Manual

Compaq laptop user manual
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My Presario - Getting Started
250029-001
compaq.com/athome

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Summary of Contents for Compaq PRESARIO 250029-001

  • Page 1 My Presario - Getting Started 250029-001 compaq.com/athome...
  • Page 2: Important Service Information

    • Contact a Compaq Support Specialist – Have a product warranty issue or need to contact a technical expert? Contact Compaq online for the fastest time to a solution.
  • Page 3: Federal Communications Commission Notice

    Modifications The FCC requires the user to be notified that any changes or modifications made to this device that are not expressly approved by Compaq Computer Corporation may void the user's authority to operate the equipment. Cable Connections to this device must be made with shielded cables with metallic RFI/EMI connector hoods in order to maintain compliance with FCC Rules and Regulations.
  • Page 4: Important Safety Instructions

    (as determined by the total RENs) contact the local telephone company. If this Compaq equipment causes harm to the telephone network, the telephone company will notify you in advance that temporary discontinuance of service may be required. But, if advance notice is not practical, the telephone company will notify the customer as soon as possible.
  • Page 5 If trouble is experienced with this Compaq equipment, call Compaq at 1-800-OK-COMPAQ or 1-800-652-6672. If the equipment is causing harm to the telephone network, the telephone company may request that you disconnect the equipment until the problem is resolved. You should only perform repairs to the equipment specifically discussed in the Troubleshooting section of the user guide, if one is provided.
  • Page 6: Table Of Contents

    Contents Chapter 1 Introduction............1-1 Symbols and Graphics Used .
  • Page 7 Using the Smart Credit Card Feature......2-11 Compaq/Logitech Wireless Wheel Mouse ......2-12 Installing the Wireless Wheel Mouse .
  • Page 8 Disk Drive, Hard Drive, CD-ROM, CD-RW, DVD-ROM, and DVD-R/RW Drives ..........2-15 Using the Disk Drive .
  • Page 9 Chapter 4 Common Tasks ..........4-1 Print Basics .
  • Page 10 Troubleshooting ........... . . 6-6 Audio.
  • Page 11 MY P –G ONTENTS RESARIO ETTING TARTED...
  • Page 12: Chapter 1 Introduction

    RESARIO ETTING TARTED Congratulations! As the owner of a new Compaq Internet PC, you have joined the worldwide community of Presario computer users. Once your computer is set up and connected to the Internet, you can explore vast regions of information, entertainment, and online services.
  • Page 13: Symbols And Graphics Used

    Computer Illustrations and Features The computer illustrations shown and the features described in this guide may differ slightly from your Compaq Presario Internet PC. Failure to follow directions may result in bodily harm or loss of life.
  • Page 14: Where Can I Find Information

    ETTING TARTED Warranty Certificate The warranty details Compaq’s commitment to repair or replace parts during the warranty period and lists important Compaq telephone numbers. In the event of a mechanical problem, contact Compaq, not the retailer who sold you the computer.
  • Page 15: Safety

    Safety Your computer is an electrical device. Treat it with care to avoid personal injury and damage to the equipment. Warning To reduce the risk of electric shock and damage to the equipment, read the Safety and Comfort Guide on the My Presario—Learning More CD before performing any procedures involving the...
  • Page 16: How Do I Find Information On The Learning More Cd

    ➜ Advanced features of your computer ➜ Solving computer problems ➜ Safety and comfort ➜ Compaq Help & Support ➜ Upgrading your computer ➜ Government regulatory information Did you know ... Electronic documents often have hyperlinks to help you find information quickly.
  • Page 17 1-6 I —G NTRODUCTION RESARIO ETTING TARTED...
  • Page 18: Chapter 2 Using Your Computer

    In This Chapter Your Computer at a Glance, Keyboard Basics, 2-4 Keyboard Buttons, 2-5 System Status Lights, 2-10 Smart Credit Card Internet Keyboard, 2-11 Compaq/Logitech Wireless Wheel Mouse, 2-12 Scroll Mouse and Wireless Mouse, 2-13 Disk Drive, Hard Drive, CD-ROM, CD-RW,...
  • Page 19: Your Computer At A Glance

    Your Computer at a Glance Before you begin, you’ll want to become familiar with the components of your Compaq Presario. Some components have color-coded connectors that match the ports on the back of your computer. 2-2 U SING OMPUTER What’s in Front (5000 Series)?
  • Page 20: What's In Front (8000 Series)

    Your Computer at a Glance, cont. —G RESARIO ETTING TARTED What’s in Front (8000 Series)? 1 CD-R/RW or DVD-R/RW drive 2 Disk drive 3 Power button 4 Two USB connectors for connecting USB devices (varies by model)—ports for connecting peripheral devices, such as gamepads, joysticks, and video cameras 5 1394 port...
  • Page 21: Keyboard Basics

    Keyboard Basics The standard keys perform the following functions: 1 Main keys are the typewriter-style keys. 2 Function keys are the F1 through F12 keys. Two of these keys are active even without a program running. F1 enables you to get help on Windows-related topics.
  • Page 22: Keyboard Buttons

    Keyboard Buttons The keyboard buttons make it easier and faster to get on the Internet, use your favorite software, or listen to your favorite CD. You might even want to watch a movie or send an e-mail. The CD/DVD control buttons provide a quick and easy way to play a CD or a DVD movie at the touch of a...
  • Page 23: Using Internet Zone Buttons

    Internet. It connects you to a customizable Web page filled with local weather, news, sports, and financial information. Compaq Customer Communities provides online collaboration between novices and technical experts, who share knowledge and information and provide assistance. Participate in existing product discussions, review commonly asked questions, and answer or post new questions to a community of users.
  • Page 24: Customizing The Internet Zone Buttons

    Internet button. Using Quick Launch Web Buttons Description Help takes you to the Compaq Service & Support Center, which provides information about your Presario. You can find information about your computer and computer-related peripherals as well as access links to online technical support.
  • Page 25: Assigning The My Program Button

    2-8 U SING OMPUTER Assigning the My Program Button 1. Press the My Program button 1. The Compaq Easy Access Button Settings dialog box is displayed. 2. Select Launch a new program or Launch a new website, then click Next.
  • Page 26: Putting Your Computer Into Stand By

    Keyboard Buttons, cont. If you’re going to be away from your computer but want to leave the power on, you can put your computer into Stand By mode. Did you know ... You can set the amount of time that passes before your computer goes into Stand By mode.
  • Page 27: System Status Lights

    System Status Lights The system lights on the keyboard provide a quick status of your computer and keyboard settings. 2-10 U SING OMPUTER Understanding the System Status Lights The system status lights are shown in the following illustration, and the function of each light is explained. Description E-mail indicates when you have e-mail waiting to be read.
  • Page 28: Smart Credit Card Internet Keyboard

    Smart Credit Card Internet Keyboard (available on select models) The Smart Credit Card Internet Keyboard makes it easy for you to purchase merchandise online. —G RESARIO ETTING TARTED Understanding the Smart Credit Card Internet Keyboard The Smart Credit Card Internet Keyboard has the same features as the standard keyboard with the addition of a Smart Credit Card button 1 and a Smart Card terminal 2.
  • Page 29: Compaq/Logitech Wireless Wheel Mouse

    Compaq/ Logitech Wireless Wheel Mouse (available on select models) Did you know ... The wireless wheel mouse does not alert you when the batteries are low. You must replace the batteries approximately every six months. For optimal performance, place the receiver at least eight...
  • Page 30: Scroll Mouse And Wireless Mouse

    Scroll Mouse and Wireless Mouse Your computer comes with a scroll mouse. The scroll mouse directs a cursor on the Windows desktop. Use the mouse to move quickly and easily through a document or Web site. Moving the scroll wheel on your mouse forward or backward through a document or Web site is...
  • Page 31: Autoscrolling

    Scroll Mouse and Wireless Mouse, cont. AutoScroll allows you to move forward and backward through a document without having to move the mouse or mouse wheel continuously. Did you know ... The scroll mouse can be customized for a left-handed user from the Mouse Properties dialog box.
  • Page 32: And Dvd-R/Rw Drives

    Disk Drive, Hard Drive, CD-ROM, CD-RW, DVD-ROM, and DVD-R/RW Drives Your computer may have one or more drives depending on the model you purchased: ➜ Disk drive ➜ Hard drive ➜ CD-ROM drive ➜ CD-RW drive ➜ DVD-ROM drive ➜ DVD-R/RW drive Each drive has a different capacity for storing...
  • Page 33: Inserting A Cd Or Dvd Into The Cd-Rom, Cd-Rw

    Disk Drive, Hard Drive, CD-ROM, CD-RW, DVD-ROM, and DVD-R/RW Drives, cont. The CD-ROM drive enables you to read data from a CD or listen to a music CD. The CD-RW drive enables you to read and write data to a disc for storage, and enables you to listen to music CDs or read data CDs.
  • Page 34: Dvd-Rom, Or Dvd-R/Rw Drive

    Disk Drive, Hard Drive, CD-ROM, CD-RW, DVD-ROM, and DVD-R/RW Drives, cont. A CD-ROM drive reads CDs, CD-R, and CD-RW media. DVD-ROM and DVD-R/RW drives read all CD media plus DVD discs. When you have finished listening to a CD, store the disc in the storage compartment on the front of your computer or in its...
  • Page 35: Playing A Dvd-Rom Movie

    DVD-ROM or DVD-R/RW drive. Playback begins automatically. 2. If playback does not begin automatically, click the Start button on the Windows desktop. 3. Point to All Programs, then point to Compaq WinDVD, and then select WinDVD Player. 4. Click the Play button to begin play.
  • Page 36: Creating Your Own Cds

    Disk Drive, Hard Drive, CD-ROM, CD-RW, DVD-ROM, and DVD-R/RW Drives, cont. The CD-RW drive allows you to create your own CDs. You can buy two types of media: CD-R and CD-RW discs. CD-R media can be played on most of the newer CD players, CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, and DVD-R/RW drives.
  • Page 37 2-20 U —G SING OMPUTER RESARIO ETTING TARTED...
  • Page 38: Chapter 3 Welcome To The Web

    Welcome to the Web In This Chapter Basic Concepts, 3-2 Internet Connection, 3-3 E-mail, 3-4 Content Advisor, 3-9 —G RESARIO ETTING TARTED In just a few moments, you will be on the World Wide Web. It is estimated that thousands of new users will join you in connecting to the Internet for the very first time!
  • Page 39: Basic Concepts

    Basic Concepts Internet, Web, URL, hyperlinks, cyberspace— sound confusing? The Internet definitely has its own terminology. Take a few moments to understand some basic concepts that will help you start surfing the Web. To begin surfing, you need to establish an Internet Service Provider (ISP) account.
  • Page 40: Internet Connection

    Internet Connection Web pages are viewed with a Web browser, such as Microsoft Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator. A Web browser lets you view and explore information on the Web. Common features of a Web browser include: ➜ Home page—your starting point for exploring the Web ➜...
  • Page 41: E-Mail

    E-mail E-mail (electronic mail) is very similar to the mail the postal carrier delivers to your home or office, except much faster. You can send letters, pictures, postcards, even music and video clips, to friends, family, and co-workers in an instant. Outlook Express is an e-mail program that comes with your computer.
  • Page 42: Understanding E-Mail Addresses

    E-mail, cont. To send and receive e-mail, you need an e-mail address so that your Internet Service Provider (ISP) will know where to pick up and deliver mail. See also ... The My Presario—Learning More CD has information on finding e-mail addresses. Did you know ...
  • Page 43: Sending An E-Mail Using Outlook Express

    E-mail, cont. Now that you’ve connected to an ISP, set up Outlook Express, and have an Internet address, it’s time to write your first e-mail message. E-mail addresses are written in a very specific way. Be sure the e-mail address you enter contains no spaces and has a period after the server name.
  • Page 44: Sending An E-Mail Using Aol

    E-mail, cont. Now that you’ve connected to an ISP, set up AOL, and have an Internet address, it’s time to write your first e-mail message. E-mail addresses are written in a very specific way. Be sure the e-mail address you enter contains no spaces and has a period after the server name.
  • Page 45: Reading Your Outlook Express E-Mail Messages

    E-mail, cont. You receive e-mail messages automatically, even when your computer is shut down! Your ISP stores these messages until you decide to open your e-mail program and read them. 3-8 W ELCOME TO THE Reading Your Outlook Express E-mail Messages 1.
  • Page 46: Content Advisor

    Content Advisor The Internet provides you with access to a wide variety of information, but some information may not be suitable for every viewer. With Content Advisor, you can: ➜ Control Internet access ➜ Set up a password ➜ Set up a list of Web sites that people who use your computer cannot view...
  • Page 47 3-10 W —G ELCOME TO THE RESARIO ETTING TARTED...
  • Page 48: Chapter 4 Common Tasks

    Common Tasks In This Chapter Print Basics, 4-2 Games and Digital Audio Files, 4-3 Software, 4-4 —G RESARIO ETTING TARTED In this chapter, you learn how to perform some of the more common activities with your new Internet PC. More details about these and other everyday activities can be found on the My Presario—Learning More CD.
  • Page 49: Print Basics

    Print Basics To print one or more pages from a document file or Web page, you have to connect your printer and install the necessary software. To see what the document will look like when printed, select the Print Preview option from the File menu.
  • Page 50: Games And Digital Audio Files

    Games and Digital Audio Files Your new Internet PC is not only a powerful tool for surfing the Internet and running software, it also allows you to play games. Did you know ... You should always use the same disc drive (CD-ROM or DVD-ROM) that you used to install a game when you play the game.
  • Page 51: Software

    Software You may want to purchase and install additional software. Software can be installed from a CD, DVD, or disk, and it can be downloaded from a Web site. The installation process begins automatically when you insert the CD in the disc drive.
  • Page 52: Installing Software Downloaded From The Internet

    Software, cont. If you download software from a Web site, follow the installation instructions that are usually displayed on the Web page. If installation instructions are not available, complete the steps listed here. Before downloading files of any kind from the Internet, make sure that call-waiting is disabled and that your anti-virus utility is running.
  • Page 53 4-6 C —G OMMON ASKS RESARIO ETTING TARTED...
  • Page 54: Chapter 5 Computer Upgrades

    Computer Upgrades In This Chapter Internal Components, 5-2 Upgrading Components, Adding Components, 5-5 —G RESARIO ETTING TARTED In this chapter, you learn how to access the internal parts of the computer and how to perform basic upgrades. Many components of the computer are replaceable and upgradable.
  • Page 55: Internal Components

    Internal Components Your 5000 Series computer is constructed with an Easy Access panel. This design makes accessing the internal parts easy. Warning Failure to disconnect the power from the computer may result in personal injury. Caution: Before working with the components inside the computer, you must ground yourself and the equipment to prevent...
  • Page 56: Accessing Internal Computer Components

    Internal Components, cont. Your 8000 Series computer is constructed with a removable side panel. This design makes accessing the internal parts easy. Warning Failure to disconnect the power from the computer may result in personal injury. Caution: Before working with the components inside the computer, you must ground yourself and the equipment to prevent...
  • Page 57: Upgrading Components

    Go to the following Web site to find out exactly what type of memory is in your computer: compaq.com/athome/ memory Did you know ... If a blank screen is displayed after replacing the memory module, the memory is installed incorrectly.
  • Page 58: Adding Components

    Adding Components An expansion card is a circuit board that fits into a computer expansion slot. The card adds a certain function such as a modem, sound or audio card, Network Interface Card (NIC), or Small Computer System Interface (SCSI) adapter.
  • Page 59 5-6 C —G OMPUTER PGRADES RESARIO ETTING TARTED...
  • Page 60: Chapter 6 Help & Support

    ➜ Press the Help button on the keyboard to access the built-in Compaq Help & Support Center, where you can find information about your computer and computer-related peripherals as well as access links to online technical help.
  • Page 61: Preventative Care & Maintenance

    & S UPPORT Your Presario is equipped with an integrated help and assistance tool from Microsoft and Compaq, providing simple click access to built-in product information, preventative care and maintenance assistance, and web links to online support and technical information. Press the Help button on your Internet keyboard to access the Compaq Help &...
  • Page 62: Online Service & Support

    & Support —G RESARIO ETTING TARTED For the fastest time to accurate solutions, go to compaq.com/ consumersupport. Whether you are a novice or technical expert, knowledge, information, and assistance is available when and where you need it. ➜ Need access to drivers and product documentation? Find original product drivers, the latest updates and software fixes, warranty information, and product documentation.
  • Page 63: How To Access Help

    Access to the latest drivers, updates, and downloads If you want interactive help or didn’t find exactly what you were looking for, go to the Compaq Help & Support Web site, found at compaq.com/consumersupport. The Compaq Help & Support Web site is the fastest way to find accurate solutions by providing: ➜...
  • Page 64: How To Access

    Any files, data, or programs you added after receiving your computer are deleted. Exit Exits the Recovery CD. Note: For more information about the Recovery CD, refer to the My Presario—Learning More CD. COMPAQ CONSUMERSUPPORT Description & S UPPORT...
  • Page 65: Troubleshooting

    6-6 H & S UPPORT Before contacting a Compaq Support Specialist, keep in mind that the information needed to correct the problem may be at your fingertips. Try pressing the Help button on the keyboard. This button accesses important help and support information and tools.
  • Page 66: Cd-Rom, Cd-Rw, Dvd-Rom, Or Dvd-R/Rw Drive

    CD or DVD disc is dirty. Windows does not detect CD-ROM or DVD-ROM driver. Wrong or poor quality media type. COMPAQ CONSUMERSUPPORT Solution Re-insert the CD with the label facing up. Wait at least 30 seconds to let the DVD-ROM drive determine the type of media being played.
  • Page 67: Disk Drive

    Press the Help button on the keyboard to access the Compaq Help & Support Center or refer to your Certificate of Warranty for details. To format the disk: 1.
  • Page 68 When saving information to the floppy disk drive, verify that you are using the correct drive letter. Press the Help button on the keyboard to access the Compaq Help & Support Center or refer to your Certificate of Warranty for details. To format the disk: 1.
  • Page 69: Hard Drive

    To restart your computer, press the Power button again. Press the Help button on the keyboard to access the Compaq Help & Support Center or refer to your Certificate of Warranty for details. —G...
  • Page 70: Display (Monitor)

    Computer is in Stand By mode. If you have a flat-panel monitor (available on select models), you may need a Digital Video Interface and connector. COMPAQ CONSUMERSUPPORT Solution Reconnect the power plug on the back of the monitor and on the wall outlet.
  • Page 71: Internet Access

    Web browser is not set up properly. You must log in to your ISP before some programs will start. Modem is not set up properly. COMPAQ CONSUMERSUPPORT Solution Verify Internet settings or contact your ISP for assistance. Reconnect the modem, verifying the...
  • Page 72: Power

    CONSUMERSUPPORT Solution Set the line voltage selection switch to the correct setting for your region, or call Compaq Technical Support for assistance. Refer to your Certificate of Warranty for details. Test the outlet by connecting a different electrical device to the outlet.
  • Page 73: Keyboard And Scroll Mouse

    Program in use has stopped responding to commands. Keyboard needs repair. Mouse connector is not properly plugged into the back of the computer. COMPAQ CONSUMERSUPPORT Solution 1. On the Windows desktop, click the Start button. 2. Click Turn Off Computer. The Turn Off Computer dialog box is displayed.
  • Page 74 TARTED Problem Program in use has stopped responding to commands. Mouse roller ball is dirty. Mouse needs repair. COMPAQ CONSUMERSUPPORT Solution Shut down your computer using the keyboard. Refer to the preceding problem “Mouse connector is not properly plugged into the back of the computer”...
  • Page 75: Wireless Wheel Mouse

    Press the Connect button on the receiver, then press the Connect button under the mouse. See the “Compaq/Logitech Wireless Wheel Mouse” section for more information. Place the receiver at least 8 inches or 20 centimeters away from other electrical devices, such as the computer, the computer monitor, or external storage devices.
  • Page 76: Memory

    ETTING TARTED Problem All memory in the computer is being used by open programs, and memory is needed for a desired task. COMPAQ CONSUMERSUPPORT Solution To avoid Windows running unnecessary programs automatically at startup: 1. Press the Help button. 2. Select Adjust your startup resources to improve performance.
  • Page 77 6-18 H & S —G UPPORT COMPAQ CONSUMERSUPPORT RESARIO ETTING TARTED...
  • Page 78: Index

    2-17 CD-RW drive creating CDs 2-19 inserting a disc 2-16 playing an audio CD 2-17 removing a disc 2-17 Compaq Help & Support 6-1 online store 1-3 Web site 1-3 Content Advisor 3-9 creating CDs 2-19 disk drive...
  • Page 79 drive CD-ROM 2-15 CD-RW 2-15 disk 2-15 DVD-R/RW 2-15 DVD-ROM 2-15 hard 2-15 drivers 6-3 DVD-ROM/R/RW drive inserting a disc 2-16 playing a movie 2-18 playing an audio CD 2-17 removing a disc 2-17 Easy CD Creator 2-19 e-mail address criteria 3-5 AOL 3-7 defined 3-4 extensions 3-5...
  • Page 80 parental controls 3-9 problems with 6-12 restricting content 3-9 Web browser 3-3 Internet buttons Activity 2-6 E-mail 2-6 Entertainment 2-6 Instant Internet 2-6 My Presario 2-6 Retail/Affinity Central 2-6 Search 2-6 Internet Service Provider (ISP) establishing 3-2 problems with account 6-12 server name 3-5 user name 3-5 keyboard...
  • Page 81 parental controls 3-9 playing CDs 2-17 digital audio files 4-3 games 4-3 movies 2-18 ports 5000 Series 2-2 8000 Series 2-3 power button 2-2 problems with 6-13 printing 4-2 RAM 5-4 Recovery CD 6-5 removing programs 4-4 restore from User Backup 6-5 to factory condition 6-5 safety and comfort 1-4 software...

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