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All rights reserved. Part Number: 431110401 Rev. C Printed in the United States of America VIPER is a trademark of Tadpole Technology, LLC Sun, Sun Microsystems, NFS, the Sun Logo, DeskSet, Solaris, SunOS, SunView, Sun-4, Sun-5, and Sun-6 are trademarks or registered trademarks of Sun Microsystems, Inc.
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Further, Tadpole reserves the right to make changes in the specifications of the product described within this manual at any time without notice and without obligation of Tadpole to noti- fy any person of such revision or changes. Environmental Statement Tadpole Computer Inc.
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• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected. • Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
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2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesirable opera- tion. Shielded Cables Connections between the VIPER notebook and peripher- als must be made using shielded cables in order to main- tain compliance with FCC radio frequency emission lim- its.
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Modifications Modifications to this device not approved by Tadpole may void the authority granted to the user by the FCC to operate this equipment. DOC Notice This digital apparatus does not exceed limits for radio noise emission for a digital apparatus as set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian Department of Communications.
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VIPER notebook. WARNING: To prevent fire, shock hazard, or damage to the equipment, do not expose the VIPER notebook to rain or moisture. Do not immerse the VIPER notebook in water. If water has entered the VIPER notebook cabinet, do not use the notebook until it has been inspected by Tadpole.
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Netz/Ladegerat zu laden. Versuche dieser Art konnen Personen-oder Sachschaden zur Folge haben. WARNUNG: Betreiben Sie Ihre VIPER Notebook nicht bei feuchten oder nassen Umgebungsbedingungen. Falls Wasser oder Feuchtigkeit in das Gehause eingedrungen ist, sollten Sie Ihr Gerat vor Wiederinbetriebnahme von einem quali- fizierten Servicetechniker uberprufen lassen.
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Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol clean- ers. Use a damp cloth for cleaning. 10. Do not use this notebook near water. 11. This product is equipped with a 2-wire non-grounded type plug. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
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Mettre au rebutles batteries usagees conforme- ment aux instructions du fablicant. VORSICHT: Explosionsgefahr bei unsachgemassem Austausch der Batterie. Ersatz nur durch denselben oder einen vom Hersteller empfohlenen ahnlichen Typ. Entsorgung gebrauchter Batterien nach Angaben des Herstellers. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
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Verlangerungskabel zulasst. Der gesamte Stromverbrauch aller angeschlossenen Gerate darf nicht mehr als 15Abetragen. Wenn Sie das Gerat reinigen, muss das Netzkabel aus der Steckdose gezogen werden. 10. Das Gerat durfen Sie nicht in der Nahe von Wasserleitungen benutzen. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
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Haube), ist unbedingt folgendes zu beachten: Das Netzkabel muss aus der Steckdose gezogen werden und zwar bevor Sie das Gerat offnen. Die Haube muss wieder montiert und verschraubt werden. Erst dann darf das Netzkabel wieder eingesteckt werden. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide xiii...
Overview ...................10 First steps ...................11 Identifying components and features..........13 System with the display open ............13 Left side panel................14 Right side panel (front) ..............14 Right side panel (back) ..............15 Back panel..................15 Bottom of the VIPER..............16 Powering up..................17 VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
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Table of Contents 3 - Using VIPER ............19 Overview ...................20 Setting up...................21 Opening the display cover .............22 Closing the display cover...............23 Providing power................24 Using batteries ................26 Operating VIPER................28 Starting VIPER ................29 Restarting VIPER................32 Shutting VIPER down..............33 Moving VIPER ................34 Using VIPER features ...............35 Using the DVD/CD module............36...
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Internal hard disk ................89 Memory (RAM) ................89 5 - Power Management ..........91 Overview ...................92 Understanding the PowerTool ............93 PowerTool indicators ..............94 PowerTool menus................97 Battery Details dialog box .............98 System Management dialog box............99 TADcar and shutdown ..............100 VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
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NIS (YP) ..................113 Printers ..................113 NFS ....................113 NFS Server...................113 PPP ....................114 Action buttons ................114 Using the Scripts Editor dialog............115 Suspendable locations ..............115 Starting and stopping scripts ............116 Defining a new sublocation............118 Closing the Location editor dialog..........118 VIPER Product Family User’s Guide xvii...
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Specifying the installation media ............139 Selecting the installation type............140 Installation procedures..............141 Optional documentation ..............142 Finishing up ..................143 Logging in..................143 Completing the installation ............143 Notes on custom installations............144 Laying Out File Systems..............144 8 - VIPER Specifications ..........145 xviii VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
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Parallel port connector..............158 External monitor connector .............159 DC input connector................160 Appendix B -External Monitor Matrix.....161 Overview ..................162 VIPER ATI display controller ............163 Changing resolutions ...............164 Configuring the display using boot PROM commands....165 Appendix C -Troubleshooting........167 Overview ..................168 Starting and booting ................169 Blank LCD display panel ..............173...
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Table of Contents VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
CAUTION: To avoid damage to the product, do not subject it to excessive shock. WARNING: To reduce risk of electric shock, do not open unit. No user serviceable parts inside. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel only. xxii VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
Screen messages Screen messages appear in type bounded by rules. Helvetica Example: After the VIPER passes its self-test, the following initial message appears: VIPER ROM Rev. x.xx, xx, Serial #xxxxxxx xxMB memory installed, Keyboard Present Ethernet address x:x:xx:x:x:xx, Host ID: xxxxxxxx Variables Variables appear as a lower-case x.
Table of figures Table of figures Figure 1-1: VIPER components ..............3 Figure 2-1: Installing the battery............11 Figure 2-2: Opening the VIPER display ..........12 Figure 2-3: VIPER front view...............13 Figure 2-4: VIPER left side ..............14 Figure 2-5: VIPER right side (front).............14 Figure 2-6: VIPER right side (back) .............15...
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Figure A-2: Microphone connector.............154 Figure A-3: Ethernet twisted-pair connector........155 Figure A-4: USB port connector ............156 Figure A-5: Serial port connector............157 Figure A-6: Parallel port connector.............158 Figure A-7: External monitor connector ..........159 Figure A-8: DC input connector............160 VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
For more information about the Solaris operating system, refer to the Sun Solaris Operating Environment documen- tation shipped with your system. For more information on related VIPER features, please visit the Customer Service area on the Tadpole web site at:: http://www.tadpole.com/html/support/ xxvi...
It combines state-of-the-art ergonomics with sophisticated architecture to provide you with a personal computer that is compact, powerful, and easy to use. VIPER can be ordered with any combination of the following options.
Overview VIPER components VIPER components As you unpack your VIPER, check the shipping carton and the components inside it for damage. The items you should find are: Figure 1-1: VIPER components If either the shipping carton is damaged or the VIPER components are missing or damaged, please contact your shipper or dealer immediately.
Options from your VIPER Dealer VIPER replacement parts and options are available from your authorized VIPER dealer. Contact your local dealer or Tadpole for a listing of the dealers in your area. The following items are available from your VIPER rep- resentative: •...
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• High-performance color, monochrome, and grayscale video monitors • Video monitor cables • Laser printers • External modems • Serial port cables • USB devices • Audio input/output devices (amplifiers, microphones, etc.) • NIC • Memory cards VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
Overview VIPER features VIPER features Your new VIPER includes the following features: • An UltraSPARC-IIIi processor running at 1.2GHz • 256MB of high-speed RAM, factory upgradeable to 2GB • a 15.0 inch display providing 1400 x 1050 resolution • Full-size, Sun Type 5 compatible integrated keyboard •...
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Overview VIPER features For more information about the features listed , see the section on “Using VIPER features” beginning on page 35. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
Tadpole's Customer Service and Support staff using the contact information found on page ii. Before you call, have the serial number for your VIPER nearby. This number appears on the bottom of the VIPER. If you received an error message, it will also help if you write down the following information: The exact description of the problem.
Overview Overview Getting Started provides a brief, pictorial introduction to get you started. The next chapter, “Using VIPER features” on page 35, describes more detailed information about these features. A few minutes spent on these two chapters will ensure you get the most out of the VIPER.
Install the VIPER Lithium-Ion battery into the battery bay, which is located on the front left side of the VIPER - the same side as the AC power jack. Push it in until you hear it click into place.
AC adapter” on page 24. Open the VIPER Open the VIPER display screen by sliding the display cover latch towards the right of the VIPER and lifting up on the cover as shown in the following illustration. Figure 2-2: Opening the VIPER display...
4 Easy Buttons 11 Touch Pad Left, Middle, and Right Buttons 5 Left Speaker 12 DVD/CD Drive 6 Right Speaker 13 System Status Lights 7 Keyboard Status LEDS 14 Wireless LED Figure 2-3: VIPER front view VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
Getting Started Identifying components and features Left side panel Identify the following ports on the left side of the VIPER: 1 AC Power Jack 2 Kensington Lock Figure 2-4: VIPER left side Right side panel (front) Identify the following ports on the right side (front) of the...
1 Reset Button 4 PCMCIA/CardBus 2 Secure Digital Card (not supported) 5 Ethernet 3 Memory Stick (not supported) Figure 2-6: VIPER right side (back) Back panel Identify the following ports on the back panel of the VIPER: 1 PS2 3 VGA Monitor...
The following steps outline the process for powering your VIPER system up. Turn on all external devices, then turn on your VIPER with the Power switch which is above the top center part of the keyboard as shown in the Figure 2-9.
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If this is the case, after the last system message, the screen displays the login prompt and you can log into the sys- tem. At this point, you may start your application. The next chapter, “Using VIPER” provides more detailed information about the various tasks involved in using your VIPER.
Using VIPER Overview Overview This chapter provides more detailed information about the tasks described in Chapter 2, “Getting Started.” A few minutes spent here will help you get the utmost benefit from your VIPER. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
Using VIPER Setting up Setting up The VIPER is designed to provide many years of error- free operation. The notebook will last longer by follow- ing these guidelines: • Position the VIPER so you can easily access the connectors on the back and side panels.
(See the table of common keyboard combinations on page 64 more information.) At this point, you can connect the VIPER to your selected optional equipment and power up the notebook. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
• No action • Suspend system • Screen blank • Shutdown For more information on how to configure any of these responses, please see the section on “System control dia- log” on page 99. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
Using VIPER Setting up Providing power The VIPER can operate from an AC power adapter or a rechargeable Lithium-Ion battery. Using an AC adapter You may use AC power to operate the VIPER. The bat- tery need not be installed for AC operation.
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AC adapter/charger must correctly fit the AC outlet. Unplugging the AC adapter Unplug the AC cable from the AC outlet. Then slide the connector from the AC adapter out of the power input socket on the VIPER. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
To install the battery: Install the VIPER Lithium-Ion battery into the battery bay, which is located on the front left under side of the VIPER - the same side as the AC power jack. Push it in until you hear it click into place.
After installing a new battery, use the AC adapter to recharge the battery. It takes about 2.5 hours to recharge a new battery when the VIPER is turned off. After fully charging the battery, you can operate the VIPER for about 1 hour, depending on your configuration and applica- tions.
Using VIPER Operating VIPER Operating VIPER Before turning on your VIPER notebook and beginning your day, you will need to prepare the notebook. This includes acclimating the notebook to its environment and starting its operating system. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
VIPER notebook properly can damage important system files and may affect your product warranty. To start the VIPER, make sure the notebook is at room temper- ature before powering up. This is particularly important when the notebook is brought from a very cold environment into a warm room.
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Using VIPER Operating VIPER Starting the VIPER on an Ethernet network If you will be using the VIPER on an Ethernet network, you will need to: Contact the person responsible for your computer network (the Network Administrator) to obtain the following applica- ble information: •...
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“hostname console login” prompt. hostname console login: If the VIPER does not respond when the power switch is turned on, refer to Appendix C of this guide for trou- bleshooting suggestions. NOTE:After powering-up the VIPER for the first time, you are ready to configure your notebook.
Using VIPER Operating VIPER Restarting VIPER Restarting a VIPER that has been halted and powered down is a simple procedure: Verify that cables from all connected peripheral devices, such as an external monitor, are connected to the appropriate connectors on the back of the VIPER.
The system can be configured to perform a shutdown when VIPER’s cover is closed. For more information on how to configure VIPER in this way, please see the sec- tion on “System control dialog” on page 99. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
Using VIPER Operating VIPER Moving VIPER If you want to move the VIPER after shutting down, per- form the following procedures: Disconnect all cables and connectors (including the AC adapter cable) from the VIPER. Fold the display cover down and close and latch the case.
VIPER feature set. For more detailed information on a listed feature, refer to “VIPER Specifications” on page 145. For a list of pin assignments for VIPER connectors, see “Connector pin assignments” beginning on page 151. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
Using VIPER features Using the DVD/CD module The DVD/CD module provides you with the hardware basics to turn your VIPER computer into a fully function- ing multimedia computer. Beyond its audio and video capabilities, since many software packages are coming...
NOTE: The eject button on the front panel will not eject the disc if it is mounted. You must use the umount and eject commands, or use the Solaris File Manager to eject the disc in that case. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
Type I or Type II PC card. This sophisticated innovation allows you to expand and customize your VIPER comput- er to meet a wide range of computing needs without sac- rificing portability. PC cards accommodate a number of expansion options.
If you encounter too much resistance, do not force the card. Check the card orientation and try again. Figure 3-8: Inserting a PC card VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
Push the button again to eject the PC card. Remove the card and store it properly. (Note that the eject button must be pushed all the way in to stay in.) Figure 3-10: Removing the PC card VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
PDAs. It can also be found in many other electronic devices including: electronic musical instruments, voice recorders, scanners and e-book readers. Memory Stick slot Figure 3-11: Memory Stick slot VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
Figure 3-12: Inserting a Memory Stick card NOTE: If Solaris doesn't recognize the Memory Stick, try removing the card and reinserting it again. The Memory Stick LED may be lit even when the system is not accessing the Memory Stick. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
NOTE: When the screen displays “Copying...” data is being written to the Memory Stick and care should be taken to wait until the operating system has finished accessing the card. You may wait another 15 seconds for the process to com- plete. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
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• Only format the Memory Stick with the device it came from • When removing the card please pull it out completely; do not leave it partially inserted • Please format the Memory Stick before use VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
PDAs. It can also be found in many other electronic devices including: electronic musical instruments, voice recorders, scanners and e-book readers. Secure Digital slot Figure 3-15: Secure Digital slot VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
NOTE: If Solaris doesn't recognize the Secure Digital card, try removing the card and reinserting it again. The Secure Digital LED may be lit even when the system is not access- ing the Secure Digital card. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
NOTE: When the screen displays “Copying...” data is being written to the Secure Digital card and care should be taken to wait until the operating system has finished accessing the card. You may wait another 15 seconds for the process to complete. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
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• Only format the Secure Digital card with the device it came from • When removing the card please pull it out completely; do not leave it partially inserted • Please format the Secure Digital card before use VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
Using VIPER Using VIPER features Using the USB port The VIPER is equipped with three Universal Serial Bus (USB) connectors. The USB connectors and their sup- porting circuitry were designed in full compliance with the Universal Serial Bus Specification 2.0, and offer addi- tional performance improvements over the 1.x spec while...
To connect the VIPER to an Ethernet network: Set it on a work surface near the Ethernet twisted-pair cable or transceiver/MAU. Attach a twisted-pair cable to the VIPER 's Gigabit Ethernet LAN port, which is bge0. Ethernet Figure 3-20: RJ-45 Ethernet port...
Using VIPER Using VIPER features Using the Wireless LAN Wireless networking is supported in VIPER. To configure and activate wireless networking, you need: • Aunique TCP/IP address (or enterprise DHCP support) • The Service Set Identification (“SSID”, which is sometimes referred to as a “wireless network name”)
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WEP (0 = disable, 1 = enable) wep_mandatory=[ 0 | 1] Makes WEP mandatory if 1, 0 means WEP is optional authentication=[1 | 2] Sets authentication mode, 1 = open system, 2 = shared key VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
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Solaris system administration guide for TCP/IP address con- figuration. This commmand allows you to get your IP address and configuration via DHCP. This documentation may be found online by using the fol- lowing url: “http://docs.sun.com/db/doc/806-4075.” VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
Using VIPER Using VIPER features Using the Serial port VIPER has an RJ-12 port on the right side for a single serial port. To use your serial port: Shut down the VIPER according to the instructions in “Shutting VIPER down” on page 33.
Using VIPER Using VIPER features Using the Parallel port The VIPER back panel has a 25-pin parallel port connec- tor. To use your parallel ports: Shut down the VIPER according to the instructions in “Shutting VIPER down” on page 33.
101/102 key keyboard including an embedded keypad and a full array of special function keys. This section cov- ers the VIPER 's keyboard, and identifies several keys that are commonly used when working with either the Operating System or other software.
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This section identifies some of these keys and dis- cusses their functions when used with either the Operating System Software or other application software, such as word processors, spread sheet applications, or database management programs. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
When Scroll Lock is engaged, pressing the cursor control keys moves the cursor by fields of text. Press the [Fn] + [Num Lk/Scroll Lk] keys to engage this mode. Pressing these keys again will disengage the Scroll Lock function. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
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([Ctrl] + [Pause/Break]) to cancel a command. [Fn] Pressing this key engages the alternate function (labeled in blue) on selected keys. For example, simultaneously pressing the [Fn] + [F2] keys decreases the display brightness. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
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The Compose key may be used in conjunction with other keys for generating foreign language characters. Refer to the user's guide of the software you are using for more details on how to use this key. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
[Page Up] or [Page Dn] These keys allow you to quickly move the cursor on the screen page by page, or window by window, depending on the software you are using. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
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While within a document, the Back Space Key allows you to move the cursor to the left and simultaneously erase characters in its path. Note that this is different from the left arrow key, which will not erase any typed characters. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
. . [F11], [F12]) from left to right. The functions these keys perform vary with respect to the operating system and software in use. Refer to the appropriate software user's guides for more detailed information on function key definitions. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
Using VIPER Using VIPER features Common keyboard combinations The following table lists commonly used keyboard com- binations for the VIPER computer. Key Combinations Definitions Increases audio volume Decreases audio volume Mutes audio volume Increases display brightness Decreases display brightness Num lock...
Using VIPER Using VIPER features Easy buttons The Easy buttons are not currently supported. Figure 3-24: Easy Buttons VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
The touch pad is a touch-sensitive pointing device that provides all the features of a mouse. Please refer to Figure 3-25 and the following explanation for the touch pad's operating instructions. Figure 3-25: The Touch Pad VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
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Move the pointer over the object you wish to select, then rapidly press the left button two times. This action is commonly referred to as “double-clicking on an object.” VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
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Once the object is in the desired position, release the button to drop the object in place. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
Using VIPER Multimedia sound system Multimedia sound system The VIPER 's built-in audio capabilities allow you to take advantage of a wide range of education and entertainment multimedia software available on today's growing market without the additional costs of add-on cards and peripher- al hardware.
An external microphone can be connected to the micro- phone jack. External speakers or headphones can be con- nected to the VIPER 's Headphone/Line-out jack. These ports are located on the front right-hand side as shown in Figure 3-28 below.
Recording with an external microphone To use an external microphone to record: Make sure the microphone is plugged into the microphone jack on your VIPER (see Figure 3-28). Make sure the recording source is sufficiently close to the microphone (1 to 2 ft).
To connect an external monitor: Shut down the VIPER according to the instructions in “Shutting VIPER down” on page 33. Connect the cable from the monitor to the VIPER 's exter- nal 15-pin VGA video port. External monitor Figure 3-29: External monitor port...
Simply connect the keyboard or pointing device to the PS2 port on the back panel. You do not need to power down your VIPER before connecting or disconnecting these devices when using the PS2 ports on the back panel as shown in Figure 3-30.
1 Indicates the uppercase letter function is enabled/disabled (Caps lock) 2 Indicates the numeric keypad is enabled/disabled (Number lock) 3 Indicates the scroll lock function is enabled/disabled (Scroll lock) Figure 3-32: System status LEDs above the keyboard VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
Maintaining VIPER Overview Overview It is important to maintain the VIPER. This chapter pro- vides information for cleaning, packing, and storing the notebook, and battery maintenance. This chapter also provides information about hardware upgrade options and procedures for the internal hard disk drive and mem- ory.
If the product does not operate normally, adjust only those controls that are covered by the operating instruc- tions. Unplug the VIPER from the power outlet and call Customer Service under any of the following conditions: • If the power cord or plug is damaged or frayed.
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Once removed, the cover must be replaced and screwed in position before the power supply is plugged back in. (Apres le couverde a encleve, visse le couverde en place et remettre le cordon d'alimentation.) VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
“Shutting VIPER down” on page 33. Unplug the AC adapter/charger and remove the battery from the system before cleaning. Once the VIPER is turned off, you may clean the cases and key tops with a soft cloth dampened only with mild soap and water.
To pack the VIPER for shipment: Disconnect all cables from connectors on the VIPER side and rear panel. Do not pack the VIPER with cables still attached to connectors. Verify the connector panel on the back of the VIPER and the battery compartment are closed.
Maintaining VIPER Storage Storage If you intend to store the VIPER longer than 60 days: Make a complete backup copy of the contents of the hard disk(s). Fully discharge and remove the battery (see “Battery main- tenance” on page 87). Do not store the VIPER for extended periods with the battery installed.
Unpacking from storage When you want to start using the VIPER again: Give the VIPER enough time to stabilize at room tempera- ture before operating. This is particularly important when the notebook is brought from a very cold environment into a warm room.
Maintaining VIPER Low battery shutdown Low battery shutdown The VIPER 's battery is uniquely designed to provide the longest possible duration. As with any battery, however, prolonged use will require the battery to be recharged. Typically, battery power lasts up to 1 hour, depending on the type and number of processes you are performing.
PROM Monitor (OBP) User Actions: Solaris shutdown cannot be interrupted; attaching AC adapter will still require you to boot the VIPER after the shutdown. Front Panel LED: Flashing Red Power Shutdown Duration: 1-2 minutes...
When this occurs, follow the proper procedure to shut down the VIPER quickly and safely, or connect the AC adapter to maintain system operation. The VIPER will continue to remind you about the low battery status if you continue to use battery power.
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Maintaining VIPER Battery maintenance Swapping batteries One way to obtain maximum use out of the VIPER 's portability is to pre-charge one or more rechargeable bat- teries before operating the notebook from battery power. For example, you may purchase additional batteries, charge them, and carry them with you into the field.
Memory (RAM) VIPER comes preconfigured from the factory according to the initial order from the user. VIPER supports from 256MB – 2GB ECC SDRAM. Memory upgrades may be ordered from Tadpole, and contain the appropriate memory modules and the neces- sary installation instructions.
Power Management Overview Overview The VIPER PowerTool allows you to control the power management behavior of your system. The main program dialog provides a status information and control panel for critical power management areas such as displays of available battery capacity, estimated battery time remain- ing, current power source and power status.
Power Management Understanding the PowerTool Understanding the PowerTool Figure 5-1 shows the main PowerTool dialog box. Figure 5-1: PowerTool dialog The PowerTool is installed as /usr/bin/pwrtool when you install the power management utility. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
PowerTool icon on the CDE (or GNOME) desktop. CAUTION: If power to the VIPER is suddenly turned off and there is no available battery power, the unit's power man- agement features will not be able to perform a graceful shut- down, which may damage important system files.
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After installing a new battery pack, use the AC adapter to recharge the battery pack. It takes about 2.5 hours to recharge a new battery when the VIPER is turned off. After fully charging the battery pack, you can operate the VIPER for about 1-2 hours with a single battery, depending on your configuration and applications.
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Normal keyboard input and mouse move- ment will not power up the display panel. This functionality is designed to conserve critical computational resources where screen display is not immediately required and prevent interruptions to critical computations. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
The Battery menu provides access to the Battery Details dialog box. System Menu The System menu provides access to the System Management dialog box. Help Menu The Help menu provides access to on-screen information about power management features. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
(charge/discharge), and capacity. The Battery Details dialog box also allows the user to check the status of alarms and of the battery. Figure 5-2: Battery Details dialog VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
(display) is closed as well as system behavior when the power switch is pressed. The bottom section of the System Management dialog box allows for turning on/off audible warnings. Figure 5-3: System Management dialog VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
System TADcar Tadpole VIPER Utilities for Solaris x If TADcar is not present, the # prompt will return with no response. If this is the case, reinstall TADcar from the VIPER Installation CD, or shutdown without TADcar. Shutting down without TADcar To shut down the VIPER without TADcar: Save your work and close any open application or database.
Changing Locations Overview Overview This chapter explains how to use Tadpole's Locations software to customize system settings to accurately reflect conditions at the locations where you connect your Tadpole notebook to existing networks. The Locations dialog box enables you to control and...
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If the given location is a sublocation of the current location, only the services associated with the sublocation are affected. This can be considerably quicker than a full location change. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
Locations dialog box, which is your main interface with the Locations software. The Locations dialog box enables you to use the follow- ing elements: • Menus • Atoolbar • Astatus bar • ALocations list from which you choose locations VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
These menus and their options are described below. File menu options • New • Modify • Delete • Copy • Update • Edit Options menu options • Toolbar 1 (checkbox) • Balloon Help (checkbox) Help menu option • Location Tool Version VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
The next panel shows the IP address being used at that location. The lower panel shows the description of the current location that was specified in the Information text area when the location was created or modified. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
When the location change procedure is finished, you will see this message: Locations change complete. At this point you can close the Location Change dialog box. If there were no warning messages, the dialog box will close automatically after a short time. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
Subdivisions are named by the parent location followed by a colon and the sublocation number. Refer to “Defining a new Sublocation” on page 118 for more information about sublocation numbers. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
Locations software. After you fill out these text areas, click OK to display the Location Configuration dialog box, which you can than use to check and modify the configuration that has just been initialized. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
You can then modify the new copy of the location to make minor changes to it. This is often a faster and easier way to define a location that closely resembles another than to create it "from scratch." VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
Choose Update to refresh the contents of the dialog box if you have changed any of the configuration files manually (using an editor outside of the locations GUI) rather than by using the dialog box. Exit Choose Exit to close the Locations dialog box. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
Gateways list, select it and click Delete. Creates or modifies the appropriate entry or entries nor- mally found in /etc/resolv.conf. This file contains the name server configuration. Refer to the resolv.conf(4) man page for more information. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
Creates or modifies the appropriate entry or entries nor- mally found in /etc/dfstab. This file contains a list of local file systems to be exported, allowing other NFS clients to access these file systems. Refer to the dfstab(4)man page for more information. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
Click Cancel to close the config dialog box without applying any configuration changes you have made. Click Scripts to open the Location Scripts Editor dialog in order to manually configure the start/stop scripts. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
Script index numeric area to assign a higher or lower number, or highlight the existing number and type in the number you wish to assign to this script. Click OK to add the script to the list. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
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This will display the Configuration dialog box, with tabs you can use to define information about the following aspects of this location. See “Using the Configuration dialog” on page 112 for more information. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
Follow the instructions in “Starting and stopping scripts” on page 116 to specify the script or scripts you want to start or stop for this sublocation. Closing the Location editor dialog Click Close to close this dialog box. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
At any time you may choose to reinstall Solaris on your VIPER, or to upgrade to a later version of Solaris. When you choose to install Solaris, you will generally need to reinstall the application software you use, and the data you have previously created.
• This VIPER User Guide. • The Tadpole Installation Support CD for VIPER • A backup tape or CD-ROM (or other media) of your data. • A backup tape or CD-ROM (or other media) of any applica- tion software you use, including software from Tadpole.
Installing Solaris Launching the Solaris installation Launching the Solaris installation If there is existing data on your VIPER, back it up before beginning this procedure. NOTE: For more information, refer to your Sun System Administration Manual or the Solaris man pages for ufsdump and cpio.
VIPER will be running applications with other requirements. Indicate that you do not wish to format the drive, shown by its filename.
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When prompted, click Next so that you can answer the questions necessary for this system configuration procedure. They are described in the remainder of this chapter, but may vary somewhat depending on the version of the Solaris operating environment you are installing. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
Configuring the networking The best way to install a portable notebook such as your VIPER is to install it as a networked, standalone system that does not run NIS or any other naming service and does not use DHCP. Then, once Solaris is installed, you can use VIPER software to configure networked states for this system.
Enter an IP address for your system. This example uses the address 192.9.200.1 NOTE: If you will always be using your VIPER on the same network and already have a specific IP address, you can type it here. But usually it is preferable to enter the “temporary” IP address shown above.
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The Netmask dialog box requires a subnet mask address, similar to an IP address. Unless you will always be using your VIPER on the same network and already have a spe- cific subnet mask address, accept the default netmask; otherwise type in the subnet mask you will be using.
During the Solaris installation sequence you will be asked whether you want to enable IPv6. When prompted to enable IPv6, make sure the Yes radio button is checked and click Next to proceed. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
Setting the name server Setting the name server The Name Service dialog box prompts you for the name of the name service your VIPER will be using. Make sure the None radio button is checked and click Next to proceed.
Unless you will always be using your VIPER with the same physical network, choose the Find one option. Make sure the Find one radio button is checked and click Next.
Installing Solaris Warning messages Warning messages From time to time, if your VIPER is not currently con- nected to an active network, you may see warning mes- sages such as this: bge0: No carrier - twisted pair cable problem or hub link...
Setting the time zone Setting the time zone The Time Zone dialog box prompts you for your default time zone. Select the appropriate geographic location. When you have specified your time zone, click Next to pro- ceed. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
Setting the date and time The Date and Time dialog box prompts you for your default time zone. Specify the correct date and time if the displayed values are not correct. Click Next to proceed. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
The Root Password dialog box prompts you for the alphanumeric string you want to use for the root pass- word, as described in the Solaris Installation Guide. Type the root password you wish to use in both text areas. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
Turning off power management Turning off power management You can choose to turn off the Power Management fea- ture (an option that Tadpole recommends). Make sure the Turn Power Management Off radio button is checked. Make sure the Don't ask... radio button is checked unless you prefer to see this dialog box each time you reboot.
Internet or prefer to specify a fixed proxy server host. You should choose a direct connection unless you will always be using your VIPER on the same network, and connecting to the Internet only through a specific proxy server on that network.
If it is incorrect, choose Back and correct the information. If the information is correct, choose Confirm to proceed. Wait as your VIPER is configured the way you specified. You may see an error message indicating that no network route could be detected at this time. This is normal, since you specified that you wanted the Solaris software to detect a route rather than specify one yourself.
NOTE: In some cases, the Kiosk might obscure a dialog box. To display an obscured dialog box, click Send Kiosk to Background from the Kiosk menu. Click Next on the Solaris Web Start Welcome dialog box. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
Specify installing from CD media unless you are installing Solaris from a network. Make sure the CD radio button is checked and click Next. When prompted, insert the Solaris Software 1 of 2 CD in your VIPER DVD drive and click OK. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
You can safely choose the Default Install option rather than the optional Custom Install option. But since your VIPER is SPARC-compliant, you can choose any of the Solaris software options presented to you. If you want a default Solaris software installation, make sure the Default Install radio button is checked and click Next.
After the additional software is installed, another Installation Summary dialog box shows you the status of the installation. Click the Details button if you wish to see a log of the instal- lation process, and then click Next. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
Installing Solaris Optional documentation Optional documentation You may see another Specify Media dialog box referring to European documentation. If you do not need European documentation, click Skip to proceed. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
If you have chosen an Initial Install, specify root as the user name. Specify the root password you assigned in “Adding a root password” on page 134. Completing the installation To complete the installation, follow the on-screen prompts. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
Solaris Installation Guide. NOTE: Tadpole recommends increasing the various parti- tion sizes for best overall system performance. Please consult the README files on the VIPER Support Software (Installation) CD for more details. When you've finished modifying the layout of file systems, click Next.
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VIPER Specifications VIPER Specifications Operating system Solaris 8 or later. CDE version 3.x or later Network support Tadpole software tools, plus NTP, NIS+, DHCP, NFS, DNS Java tools Java virtual machine IU processor 1.2GHz UltraSPARCIIIi FPU processor Combined Memory 256MB to 2GB ECC SDRAM...
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RJ-12 serial port (300-115.2K baud) Centronics-compatible parallel port 3 USB 2.0 ports 16-bit audio-out port (48KHz) Microphone port External video: DB-15 VGA port External keyboard: PS2 or USB port External mouse: PS2 or USB port VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
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(4 to + 40 degrees C) Storage temperature - 4 to +140 degrees F (-20 to + 60 degrees C) Operating humidity 20-80% RH non-condensing: 27C max wet bulb Storage humidity 93% RH non-condensing: 35C max wet bulb VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
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AC cord Two wire, UL/CSA approved IEC 320/c8 con- nector, 6 ft (1.8 m) DC cord SPT1 type cable, 3 ft (.9m) Operating Systems Solaris 8 Operating Environment Solaris 9 Operating Environment Productivity Options StarOffice 7.0 VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
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External CD-RW External Keyboard & Mouse Country kits (Power cords, Solaris versions) Spare battery Spare AC Adapter Safety Compliance UL 1950 CSA C22.2 No. 950 Regulatory Compliance CE (EN50081-1, EN50082-1, IEC 801-2, IEC 801-3, IEC 801-4) VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
Connector Pin Assignments Overview Overview This chapter describes the pin assignments for relevant VIPER connectors. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
The following table lists the pin assignments for this connector. For illustration purposes, Figure A-1 shows the 1/8" male connector. Signal LEFT CHANNEL Ring RIGHT CHANNEL Shield Shield Ring Figure A-1: Audio line -out connector VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
The following table lists the pin assignments for this connector. For illustration purposes, Figure A-2 shows the 1/8" male connector. Signal LEFT CHANNEL Ring RIGHT CHANNEL Shield Shield Ring Figure A-2: Microphone connector VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
The Ethernet twisted-pair connector is a female, 8-pin miniature RJ-45 telephone jack. The following table lists the pin assignments for this connector. Figure A-3 shows this connector. Signal TXD+ TXD- TXD- RXD+ TXD_COM TXD_COM RXD- RXD_COM RXD_COM Figure A-3: Ethernet twisted-pair connector VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
USB port connector USB port connector The USB connector is a standard female connector. The following table lists the pin assignments for this connec- tor. Signal VCC +5V DATA NEGATIVE DATA POSITIVE Figure A-4: USB port connectors VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
The Serial port connector is a female, RJ-12 connector. The following table lists the pin assignments for this con- nector (as well as if using a DB9 adapter). RJ-12 Signal Figure A-5: Serial port connector VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
External monitor connector External monitor connector The external monitor connector is a female, 15-pin VGA connector. The following table lists the pin assignments for this connector. Signal Signal GREEN BLUE HSYNC VSYNC Figure A-7: External monitor connector VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
Connector Pin Assignments DC input connector DC input connector The DC input connector provides DC power to the unit. Figure A-9 shows this connector. DC input Figure A-8: DC input connector VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
External Monitor Matrix Overview Overview The VIPER ATI display controller is used to display on the built-in screen as well as on an external display if you choose to use one. To connect an external monitor, please follow these steps: Turn off the external monitor and your computer.
VIPER ATI display controller The VIPER ’s ATI display controller allows it to drive an external monitor. In some combinations, the VIPER can drive both the LCD and an external monitor simultaneously. This list charts the various combinations and the OBP commands to activate them.
LCD/monitor settings as listed in the table on the previous page. After entering the command string, type go or boot, depending on any messages given at the command line. Press Enter to resume using the VIPER. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
In some cases, you may need to configure the LCD dis- play and external port manually. To change the configuration: Disconnect the external device from the VIPER. Power on the system according to the instructions in “Starting VIPER” on page 28.
Quick Fix Table. If You Have a Problem with ... See Page Starting and Booting Blank LCD Display Panel Battery Operation Ethernet Port Serial Port External Video Port External Keyboard/Mouse Port Customer Service and Support VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
• The AC LED on the lower left of the display housing is on after pushing the power button. • The AC adapter is securely plugged into the VIPER 's power input socket, and the AC adapter's power cord is securely plugged into both the AC adapter and the AC outlet.
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• Does not display, indicating a hard disk problem exists, contact Tadpole Customer Service and Support. • Displays, but the VIPER fails to boot, boot from the Solaris CD-ROM and restore the boot file. You may need to have a Solaris system administrator do this for you.
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Lost carrier (transceiver cable problem?) ARP/RARP send failed. Check Ethernet cable and transceiver. The VIPER is trying to boot from a network server that is either not connected or unavailable. Hold down the Stop key and press A. At the OK prompt, type: boot disk.
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NIS: server not responding to domain ???; still trying • The VIPER is configured to use an NIS server that is not con- nected or is unavailable. Hold down the Stop key and press A.
LCD display panel. Refer to Exit on page 110 for more information about LCD Off. • The LCD display will also be blank if the VIPER has shut down automatically due to low battery capacity or user inactiv- ity.
Connect the AC adapter, shut down the system according to the instructions in Shutting VIPER down on page 33, and recharge the battery for 3 hours. Then try using the VIPER again. If recharging fails to correct the problem, test the AC adapter by removing the battery from the VIPER and trying to operate from the adapter only.
Troubleshooting Ethernet port Ethernet port Symptom: The VIPER fails to access a network through the Ethernet connection. If you have a console window active, the Ethernet cable can be removed or inserted any time. When inserted, the speed and duplex conditions of the connection are displayed.
• Port parameters may be configured incorrectly for the applica- tion or attached device. Refer to the manual that came with your application or device for more information. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
External video port Symptom: External monitor display remains blank. • Check the monitor connection to the VIPER. If you use an external monitor, be sure that your monitor cable uses a VGA- type connector. AVGA-to-J13W3 adapter is required to con- nect some Sun-type external monitors to the VIPER.
External keyboard/mouse port Symptom: The external keyboard or mouse fails to work. • Make sure that the external keyboard or mouse is securely plugged into the appropriate VIPER connector before power- ing on the VIPER. VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
Troubleshooting Customer service and support Customer service and support If the troubleshooting information in this chapter does not resolve the problem, you may contact Tadpole’s customer service and support staff. North America Corporate Office 20450 Stevens Creek Boulevard Cupertino, CA 95014...
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SunOS xxxxxxx x.x Generic_xxxxxx-xx sun4u sparc TAD,VIPER Use more /etc/release to obtain release informa- tion including the release date on the install CD. Solaris X xx/xx xxxxx_xx_xxxxx_xx SPARC Copyright xxxx Sun Microsystems, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Assembled xx xxxxx xxxx VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
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Index cursor control ,xv,58,61 AC adapter viii, xxiv, 3, 4, 12, 24, customer service and support 25, 27, 34, 81, 86, 87, 94, 95, 149, ,xiv,xix,6,8,168,170,179,180 150, 169, 174 AC operation ,12,24 DC input ,xix,xxv,160 AC power ,x,6,11,12,14,24,26, 95 display latch ,13,16,22,23,27, ambient air temperature ,11 34,39 audio ,xv,xix,xxv,5,6,36,64,69,...
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Memory Stick ,xvxxiv,2,15,41,42, 179,180 43,44,146 serial number ,xxiii,8,179,180,184 microphone ,xv,xixxxiv,xxv,6,13, shutting down ,29,33,34,87,†100, 14,69,70,71,147,154 mouse ,xix,xxii,xxv,4,5,6,30,66, Solaris ,iii,xviii,xxvi,3,4,5,31,37, 67,68,73,96,147,150,168,178 42,46,49,51,53,66,67,73,86,†100, multimedia ,xv,36,69,70,71 102,114,119,120,121,122,123,124, 125,126,127,128,129,130,131,132, 133,134,135,136,137,138,139,140, Parallel 141,142,143,144,146,149,150,170, ,xv,xixxxiv,xxv,6,15,55,147,158 PC card xxiv,38,39,40 VIPER features ,xiv,xv,xxvi,2, PCMCIA/CardBus ,xvxxiv,6,15, 6,7,10,35,36,37,38,39,40,41,42,43, VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...
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,xix,168,174 troubleshooting, blank LCD ,xix,168,173 troubleshooting, serial port ,54 troubleshooting, starting and boot- ing ,xix,168,169,170,171,172,184 twisted-pair ,xix,xxv,6,50,155, 170 Type I ,6,38,146 Type II ,6,38,146 UltraSPARCIIIi ,2,146 USB ,xv,xix,xxiv,xxv,5,6,14,49, 147,156 using batteries ,xv,169,182 VIPER Product Family User’s Guide...