Getting Started Compaq Presario 4000, 6000, and 8000 Series Computers Document Part Number: 274894-001 March 2002 This book helps you get acquainted with the features of your computer and provides solutions to problems should they occur.
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Microsoft, MS-DOS, Windows, and Windows NT are trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and other countries. Compaq shall not be liable for technical or editorial errors or omissions contained herein. The information in this document is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind and is subject to change without notice.
Information is available in several forms: printed documents, electronic documents on the CD that came with your computer, and the Compaq Web site. Use this guide as your first point of reference, and then refer to the following documents: ✎...
You can expand your computer performance with hardware upgrades, such as memory and additional peripherals, such as a digital camera and a printer. To view options available from Compaq, visit the online store at (not available in all regions): compaq.com/athome/accessories For more information on upgrading memory, refer to “Upgrading or...
The Documentation Library CD included with your computer contains several guides: ✎ Compaq recommends that you print the guides on the Documentation Library CD when referencing them. To access the documents on the Documentation Library CD: 1. Insert the Documentation Library CD into the CD drive. The CD ✎...
To begin receiving the benefits of Compaq Advisor, enable Advisor by double-clicking the Launch Compaq Advisor icon on your desktop, or click Start > Programs > Compaq Advisor > Run Advisor. After Advisor is enabled, you can change Compaq Advisor settings by clicking Start >...
The components on the front of your computer will vary depending on the model you purchased. Take a look at the following illustrations to get acquainted with the front panel features of your computer model. 4000 Series Getting Started A Look at the Computer 2–1...
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A Look at the Computer Front Panel Components - 4000 Series Optical Drives Optical Drive Activity Lights Diskette Drive Diskette Drive Activity Light Diskette Eject Button USB (Universal Serial Bus) Ports Optical Drive Eject Button Power Button Power-On Light Hard Drive Activity Light ✎...
6000 Series Front Panel Components - 6000 Series Optical Drives Optical Drive Activity Lights Diskette Drive Diskette Drive Activity Light Power-On Light 1394 Port (available on select models) Optical Drive Eject Buttons Getting Started Depending on your computer model, this may be a CD-ROM, CD-RW, DVD-ROM, or DVD-R/RW drive.
A Look at the Computer Front Panel Components - 6000 Series (Continued) Diskette Eject Button Power Button Hard Drive Activity Light USB (Universal Serial Bus) Ports ✎ Arrangement and number of drives and connectors may vary by model. 8000 Series 2–4 Ejects the diskette from the diskette drive.
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Front Panel Components - 8000 Series Optical Drives Optical Drive Activity Lights Diskette Drive Activity Light Power Button Power-On Light 1394 Port (available on select models) USB (Universal Serial Bus) Ports Optical Drive Eject Buttons Diskette Drive Diskette Eject Button Hard Drive Activity Light ✎...
✎ Some components have color-coded connectors that match the ports on the rear of your computer. Refer to the Quick Setup poster that came with your computer for more information on connecting computer components. 4000 Series 2–6 Getting Started...
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Rear Panel Components - 4000 Series Power Cord Connector Voltage Select Switch (available on select models) PS/2 Keyboard Connector USB (Universal Serial Bus) Ports Serial Port VGA Connector Audio Line-Out Connector Audio Line-In Connector Microphone Connector Modem Port PS/2 Mouse Connector <...
A Look at the Computer 6000 Series Rear Panel Components - 6000 Series Voltage Select Switch (available on select models) Power Cord Connector PS/2 Keyboard Connector 2–8 Selects 230 volts (for some areas of Asia, Africa, Australia, and Europe) or 115 volts (for North America, South America, and Japan).
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Rear Panel Components - 6000 Series (Continued) USB (Universal Serial Bus) Ports Serial Port VGA Connector Network Interface Card (NIC) Connector Audio Line-Out Connector Audio Line-In Connector Modem Port PS/2 Mouse Connector < Parallel Port Microphone Connector > Telephone Extension (not available in all countries) ✎...
A Look at the Computer 8000 Series 2–10 Getting Started...
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Rear Panel Components - 8000 Series Power Cord Connector Voltage Select Switch (available on select models) PS/2 Keyboard Connector PS/2 Mouse Connector Serial Port Audio Line-Out Connector Audio Line-In Connector Microphone Connector USB (Universal Serial Bus) Ports Modem Port Parallel Port <...
A Look at the Computer Mouse Components Your computer includes a Scroll Mouse, a Wireless Wheel Mouse, or a USB Optical Mouse. The Wireless Wheel Mouse and USB Optical Mouse are available with select models. ✎ Your mouse can be customized for a left-handed user from the Mouse Properties dialog box.
Installing the Wireless Wheel Mouse Follow the instructions below to install your wireless wheel mouse (available on select models only). ✎ Before using your wireless wheel mouse, refer to the Comfort Guidelines on the Logitech Web site at: logitech.com/cf/support/comfortguide.cfm 1. Remove the battery compartment 2.
A Look at the Computer Using the Scroll Mouse The mouse directs the cursor on the Windows desktop. Use the mouse to move quickly or easily through a document or Web site. Moving the scroll wheel on your mouse through a document or Web site is faster than using the scroll bar.
Using the USB Optical Mouse The USB optical mouse is available with select models. It provides the same functions as the scroll mouse and wireless wheel mouse except it uses an optical sensor instead of a mechanical ball to determine the position of the cursor on the screen. The surface on which you use the optical mouse plays an important role in tracking the cursor.
A Look at the Computer Keyboard Components Your computer includes a Compaq PS/2 Easy Access Keyboard or a Compaq USB Smart Card Keyboard. The Smart Card Keyboard is available with select models and in some regions. Easy Access Keyboard Components...
Easy Access Keyboard Components (Continued) Arrow Keys Application Key* Windows Logo Keys* Main Keys *Keys available in select geographic regions. Using the Easy Access Buttons The Easy Access Buttons make accessing your favorite Web sites, services, and applications easier and faster. ✎...
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Provides your daily starting point to the Internet. It connects you to a customizable Web page filled with local weather, news, sports, and financial information. Takes you to the Compaq Help & Support Center, which provides information about your computer. You can find information about your computer and computer-related peripherals as well as access links to online technical support.
2. Click the Help button on the Keyboard Properties dialog box for Getting Started Depending on your region, this button launches the Smart Card or the Compaq online Community. • The Smart Card button is available on U.S. English keyboards. When pressed, it provides information on obtaining a Smart Card and/or shopping at participating online merchants.
A Look at the Computer Smart Card Keyboard Components The Compaq USB Smart Card Keyboard (available with select models in some regions) has the same features as the Easy Access Keyboard with some additional Smart Card features. The Smart Card features provide you with online shopping convenience and security.
Using the Smart Card Feature The Smart Card feature makes it easy for you to purchase merchandise online. To apply for a Smart Card or use your Smart Card to shop at participating online merchants: 1. Press the Smart Card button 1. This button launches a Web site 2.
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A Look at the Computer 2–22 Getting Started...
Inserting and Removing a Diskette The diskette drive (also known as a floppy drive) uses a 3 1/2" diskette (or floppy disk) to store files. A diskette can hold up to 1.44 MB of data. Once information is copied onto a diskette, it remains there until you delete or overwrite it.
Using the Computer Inserting and Removing a CD or DVD Disc Your computer may have a CD-ROM, CD-RW, DVD-ROM, and/or DVD-R/RW drive, depending on the model you purchased. To insert or remove a CD or DVD disc from the drive, follow the procedure below.
✎ Make sure to store CD and DVD discs that are not in use in their protective cases. Installing Additional Software You may want to purchase and install additional software. Software can be installed from a CD, DVD, diskette, or downloaded from a Web site.
Using the Computer Installing Software from the Internet 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. Ä CAUTION: Before downloading files of any kind from the Internet, make sure that call-waiting is disabled and that your anti-virus utility is running.
Customizing Your Computer Interface If you have trouble reading the screen, hearing sounds, using the keyboard, or moving the mouse, you can adjust the settings to make your computer more accessible. You can use the Accessibility Wizard to automatically adjust your text size, monitor display, sound, and mouse pointer.
✎ For detailed instructions on upgrading and replacing internal computer components, see the Hardware Reference Guide on the Documentation Library CD included with your computer. Compaq recommends that you print these instructions to make the installation process easier. 4000 Series Follow the procedure below to access the internal components of your 4000 Series computer.
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4. Disconnect all peripheral device cables from the computer. 5. Remove the access panels by loosening the screws that secure the Removing the 4000 Series Access Panels 6. Turn the computer on its side with the open side facing up to 4–2...
6000 Series Follow the procedure below to access the internal components of your 6000 Series computer. Ä CAUTION: Static electricity can damage the electronic components of your computer or optional equipment. Before beginning these procedures, ensure that you are discharged of static electricity by briefly touching a grounded metal object.
Internal Computer Components 6. Remove the access panel by loosening the screw that secures the Removing the 6000 Series Access Panel 8000 Series Follow the procedure below to access the internal components of your 8000 Series computer. Ä CAUTION: Static electricity can damage the electronic components of your computer or optional equipment.
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Å WARNING: To reduce the risk of personal injury from electrical shock and/or hot surfaces, be sure to disconnect the power cord from the wall outlet, and allow the internal system components to cool before touching. 4. Disconnect all peripheral device cables from the computer. 5.
Web site (not available in all languages): compaq.com/athome/memory 1. Complete the “Accessing Internal Computer Components” 2. Open both ends of the memory module socket 1.
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✎ If you are adding a memory module, install the new module into the socket nearest the preinstalled module. 3. Align the memory module 1 with the memory slot. The memory Installing a Memory Module 4. Reassemble the computer and turn on the power. ✎...
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 Easy Access Help G button on your keyboard to access the Compaq Help & Support Center. Getting Started Review this “Help &...
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Return your computer to its optimal state using one of the provided restore features. Adjust your startup resources to improve performance: Compaq has engineered an exclusive utility, called a Virtual Technician, which helps you safely manage your computer's system performance and resources.
The first step when you need help is to press the Help G button on your keyboard, giving you access to an integrated help and assistance tool from Microsoft and Compaq. The Compaq Help & Support Center provides a wealth of help and assistance, especially when you...
Help & Support If you want interactive help or didn’t find exactly what you were looking for, go to the Compaq Help & Support Web site at compaq.com/consumersupport. The Compaq Help & Support Web site is the fastest way to find accurate solutions by providing:...
The Symptom indicates the sign or warning message for the type of problem you are having. The Problem identifies one or more reasons why the symptom may have occurred. The Solution describes what you should do to try to solve the problem. ✎...
Help & Support CD-ROM, CD-RW, DVD-ROM, or DVD-R/RW Drive Symptom CD-ROM, CD-RW, DVD-ROM, or DVD-R/RW drive cannot read a disc or takes too long to start. 5–6 Problem CD has been inserted upside down. The DVD-ROM drive takes longer to start because it has to determine the type of media being played, such as audio or video.
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CD-ROM, CD-RW, DVD-ROM, or DVD-R/RW Drive (Continued) Symptom Recording audio CDs is difficult or impossible. Getting Started Problem Windows does not detect CD-ROM or DVD-ROM driver. Wrong or poor quality media type. Help & Support Solution 1. On the Windows desktop, click Start then click Control Panel.
Help & Support Diskette Drive Symptom Unable to read the diskette. “Invalid system disk” message is displayed. Diskette drive light stays on. 5–8 Problem A non-formatted diskette has been inserted. Diskette is damaged. A diskette has been left in the drive. Diskette error has occurred.
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Help & Support Solution Press the Help G button on the keyboard to access the Compaq Help & Support Center or refer to your Limited Warranty for details. To format the diskette: 1. On the Windows desktop, click Start then click My Computer.
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Diskette is not formatted. Cable is loose. Solution Press the Help G button on the keyboard to access the Compaq Help & Support Center or refer to your Limited Warranty for details. To format the diskette: 1. On the Windows desktop, click Start then click My Computer.
To restart your computer, press the Power button again. Press the Help G button on the keyboard to access the Compaq Help & Support Center or refer to your Limited Warranty for details. Solution Reconnect the power plug on the back of the monitor and on the wall outlet.
Help & Support Display (Monitor) (Continued) Symptom Hardware Installation Problems Symptom A new device is not recognized as part of the system. 5–12 Problem Screen saver is enabled. Computer is in Stand By mode. Problem Device is not seated or connected properly.
Hardware Installation Problems (Continued) Symptom Internet Access Symptom Cannot connect to the Internet. Getting Started Problem When the system advised you of changes to the configuration, you did not accept them. A plug and play board may not automatically configure when added if the default configuration conflicts with other devices.
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Help & Support Internet Access (Continued) Symptom Cannot automatically launch Internet programs. Internet takes too long to download Web sites. 5–14 Problem You must log in to your ISP before some programs will start. Modem is not set up properly. Solution Log in to your ISP and launch the desired program.
If possible, save all data, close all programs, and restart your computer. If the error message returns, press the Help G button on the keyboard to access the Compaq Help & Support Center and select Undo harmful or unintended changes to your system. 5–15...
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Processor or system fan has failed. Solution Refer to your Compaq Restore Kit or your Limited Warranty for details. Reinstall the old memory to return your computer to its original state. Refer to “Upgrading or Replacing...
Keyboard and Scroll Mouse Symptom Keyboard commands and typing are not recognized by the computer. Cursor will not move using the arrow keys on the keypad. Getting Started Problem Keyboard connector is not properly connected. Program in use has stopped responding to commands.
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Help & Support Keyboard and Scroll Mouse (Continued) Symptom Mouse does not respond to movement or is too slow. 5–18 Problem Mouse connector is not properly plugged into the back of the computer. Program in use has stopped responding to commands. Solution Shut down your computer using the keyboard:...
Keyboard and Scroll Mouse (Continued) Symptom Mouse will only move vertically or horizontally. Wireless Wheel Mouse Symptom Mouse does not work after installation or is not detected. Getting Started Problem Mouse roller ball is dirty. Mouse needs repair. Problem Receiver is not connected properly.
Help & Support Wireless Wheel Mouse (Continued) Symptom Poor reception. Mouse stops functioning. USB Optical Mouse Symptom Mouse does not work after installation or is not detected. Mouse does not track cursor well. 5–20 Problem Receiver too close to other electrical devices.
Solution First, reset the date and time in your operating system. If the problem persists, replace the RTC battery. Contact a Compaq Support Specialist. If you encounter printer problems, refer to the documentation that came with your printer. 5–21...
1394 port 2–3 2–5 access panels 4000 Series 4–2 6000 Series 4–4 8000 Series 4–5 accessibility 3–5 accessories 1–2 application key 2–17 arrow keys 2–17 audio line-in connector 2–7 2–9 line-out connector 2–7 2–9 troubleshooting 5–5 autoscrolling 2–14 inserting a disc 3–2 removing a disc 3–2...
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2–12 left-handed users 2–12 optical 2–15 right button 2–12 scroll wheel 2–12 scrolling 2–14 troubleshooting 5–17 using 2–14 using wireless 2–14 wireless installation 2–13 My Compaq PC button 2–19 2–20 2–9 2–11 2–9 2–11 2–9 2–11 5–19 5–20...
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Web site 2–19 preventative care and maintenance 5–1 PS/2 keyboard connector 2–7 mouse connector 2–7 2–9 rear panel components 4000 Series 2–6 6000 Series 2–8 8000 Series 2–10 replacing parts 1–2 Getting Started Retail/Affinity Central button 2–19 Safety & Comfort Guide 1–3 Safety &...
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2–11 voltage select switch 2–7 2–8 warranty information 1–2 5–3 Web sites community 5–3 5–4 Index–4 Compaq Support Specialist 5–3 drivers 5–3 Logitech 2–13 memory identification 4–6 My Presario 2–19 2–7 2–9 products and services 1–1 software fixes 5–3 technical support 1–1 upgrades and accessories 1–2...
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