Table of Contents

Advertisement

Quick Links

Astro PN64
User Guide

Advertisement

Table of Contents
loading
Need help?

Need help?

Do you have a question about the Astro PN64 and is the answer not in the manual?

Questions and answers

Summary of Contents for Ciara Astro PN64

  • Page 1 Astro PN64 User Guide...
  • Page 2 Intel and Core are trademarks or registered trademarks of Intel Corporation Asus is a trademark of ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. All other names, brands, and trademarks are trademarks of their respective companies Fourth printing March 2023 Printed in Canada All rights reserved - © Hypertechnologie CIARA inc. - 2 -...
  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    1.1 Unpacking your micro PC ......................6 1.2 Choosing a site for the system ..................... 7 1.3 Getting to know your Astro PN64 micro PC .................. 8 1.3.1 Recovery from CIARA recovery DVD ..................12 1.3.2 Windows Recovery from Startup Settings ................15 1.3.3 Corrupted BIOS recovery .......................19...
  • Page 4 CIARA Astro PN64 4.0 TECHNICAL PRODUCT SPECIFICATION CIARA ASTRO PN64 ........44 4.1 Upgrading ..........................46 4.2 Networking ..........................47 4.3 The CIARA Astro PN64 BIOS ......................47 4.3.1 BIOS configuration and installation ..................47 4.3.2 BIOS set-up program menu bar .....................48 4.3.3 BIOS set-up program function keys ..................48 4.3.4 Legacy USB support ......................49...
  • Page 5: About This Guide

    Glossary. Please remember to fill out the Equipment Log and keep a copy in a safe place. With proper care and operating procedures your CIARA Astro PN64 will give you many years of service and high performance computing.
  • Page 6: Installing And Upgrading Your System

    CIARA Astro PN64 1.0 Installing and upgrading your system 1.1 Unpacking your micro PC Your micro PC is packed with ecologic moulded boxboard on four sides to keep it in place during transit. Carefully unpack your micro PC and be sure to save all boxboards for future shipping and transportation.
  • Page 7: Choosing A Site For The System

    Has an appropriate table or desk that will allow you to work without physical discomfort and strain. The Astro PN64 micro PC can be placed horizontally on your desk or mounted behind the monitor with the optional VESA mounting kit.
  • Page 8: Getting To Know Your Astro Pn64 Micro Pc

    CIARA Astro PN64 1.3 Getting to know your Astro PN64 micro PC Front view Drive activity indicator This indicator lights up when your Micro PC is accessing the internal storage drive. Headphone/Headset/Microphone jack This port allows you to connect amplified speakers or headphones. You can also use this port to connect your headset or an external microphone.
  • Page 9 CIARA Astro PN64 Rear view HDMI™ port The HDMI™ (High Definition Multimedia Interface) port supports a Full-HD device such as an LCD TV or monitor to allow viewing on a larger external display. NOTE: The left HDMI port supports CEC (Consumer Electronics Control). Connect any CEC compatible device that you want to control with a remote control to this port, and make sure that the device’s HDMI-CEC is enabled.
  • Page 10 CIARA Astro PN64 USB 3.2 Gen 2 port The USB 3.2 Gen 2 (Universal Serial Bus) port provides a transfer rate up to 10 Gbit/s. Power input The supplied power adapter converts AC power to DC power for use with this jack. Power supplied through this jack supplies power to the Micro PC.
  • Page 11 CIARA Astro PN64 Right view Air vents (intake vent) The air vents allow cooler air to enter your Micro PC chassis. IMPORTANT: For optimal heat dissipation and air ventilation, make sure that the air vents are free from obstructions. - 11 -...
  • Page 12: Recovery From Ciara Recovery Dvd

    CIARA Astro PN64 1.3.1 Recovery from CIARA recovery DVD 1.3.1.1 Recovery from CIARA Window 10 Pro recovery DVD Before you start this procedure, please back up all your important information, the recovery media will erase all data on HDD before installation.
  • Page 13 CIARA Astro PN64 1.3.1.2 Recovery from CIARA Window 11 Home recovery DVD Before you start this procedure, please back up all your important information, the recovery media will erase all data on HDD before installation. Insert the Windows 11 Home Recovery DVD and restart the system.
  • Page 14 CIARA Astro PN64 1.3.1.3 Recovery from CIARA Window 11 Pro recovery DVD Before you start this procedure, please back up all your important information, the recovery media will erase all data on HDD before installation. Insert the Windows 11 Pro Recovery DVD and restart the system.
  • Page 15: Windows Recovery From Startup Settings

    CIARA Astro PN64 1.3.2 Windows Recovery from Startup Settings 1.3.2.1 Windows 10 Recovery from Startup Settings With the Windows Startup Settings screen (formerly advanced boot options) you can start Windows in different advanced troubleshooting modes so you can find and fix problems on your PC. In previous versions of Windows, you could get to this screen by pressing F8 before Windows started up.
  • Page 16 CIARA Astro PN64 Choose Reset your PC Choose Remove everything Press Reset Then follow the regular Windows 10 Installation process. - 16 -...
  • Page 17 CIARA Astro PN64 1.3.2.2 Windows 11 Recovery from Startup Settings With the Windows Startup Settings screen (formerly advanced boot options) you can start Windows in different advanced troubleshooting modes so you can find and fix problems on your PC. In previous versions of Windows, you could get to this screen by pressing F8 before Windows started up.
  • Page 18 CIARA Astro PN64 Choose Remove everything Press Next Set Clean data to Yes and press Confirm Press Reset Then follow the regular Windows 11 Installation process. - 18 -...
  • Page 19: Corrupted Bios Recovery

    CIARA Astro PN64 1.3.3 Corrupted BIOS recovery The ASUS CrashFree BIOS 3 is an auto recovery tool that allows you to restore the BIOS file when it fails or gets corrupted during the updating process. You can restore a corrupted BIOS file using the motherboard support USB flash drive that contains the updated BIOS file.
  • Page 20: Using The Ciara Astro Pn64

    1.3.5.1 Introduction The CIARA Astro PN64 is a powerful micro PC that has the ability to run a variety of operating systems. Unless you have specified something different, your system comes configured with a Windows operating system pre-loaded onto the hard drive. Each operating system comes with its own user manuals, and you should refer to these for information specific to your system.
  • Page 21: Troubleshooting Your System After First Install

    CIARA Astro PN64 1.4 Troubleshooting your system after first install 1.4.1 Helpful hints If you encounter some minor problems with the micro PC, monitor, or software, see the following list of general suggestions before taking further action : • Check that the micro PC and monitor are plugged into a working electrical outlet.
  • Page 22: Solving General Problems

    You should be able to easily resolve the general problems described in this section. If a problem persists and you are unable to resolve it, or if you feel uncomfortable about performing the operation, contact CIARA at 1-877-242-7272 and ask for the Customer Service department.
  • Page 23: Solving Hard Drive Problems

    CIARA Astro PN64 1.5.1 Solving hard drive problems Solving hard drive problems Problem Cause Solution Hard drive error occurs. Hard disk has bad sectors or has Use a utility to locate and block usage of bad failed. sectors. If necessary, reformat the hard disk.
  • Page 24: Solving Display Problems

    CIARA Astro PN64 1.5.2 Solving display problems Solving display problems Problem Cause Solution Blank screen (no video). Monitor is not turned on and the Turn on the monitor and check that the monitor light is not on. monitor light is on.
  • Page 25: Solving Audio Problems

    CIARA Astro PN64 1.5.3 Solving audio problems Solving audio problems Problem Cause Solution Sound does not come out of the Software volume control is Double-click the Speaker icon on the taskbar, speaker or headphones. turned down. and then make sure that Mute is not selected and use the volume slider to adjust the volume.
  • Page 26: Solving Keyboard And Mouse Problems

    Keyboard connector is not Connect keyboard correctly keyboard commands and typing. properly connected. Keyboard needs repairs. Contact CIARA so that we may proceed to repairs. Micro PC is in Last State mode. Press the power button to resume from Last State mode.
  • Page 27: Solving Hardware Installation Problems

    PC the faulty module. beeps six times. 3. If a faulty module is found, Contact CIARA for the replacement of the module. 4. 4. If the problem persists, Contact CIARA for this may necessitate the replacement of the motherboard.
  • Page 28: Solving Memory Problems

    PC beeps three times. 3. If a faulty module is found, Contact CIARA for the replacement of the module. 4. 4. If the problem persists, Contact CIARA for this may necessitate the replacement of the motherboard.
  • Page 29: Component Installation Guide

    CIARA Astro PN64 1.6 Component installation guide 1.6.1 Precautions against static electricity ATTENTION: Components such as processors and memory may be permanently damaged by shocks arising from static electricity. It is hence important to wear antistatic, smock, gloves, shoes and ankle during the installation process.
  • Page 30: Removing And Replacing The Bottom Cover

    CIARA Astro PN64 1.6.2 Removing and replacing the bottom cover 1.6.2.1 Removing the bottom cover 1- Turn off your Micro PC then disconnect all cables and peripherals. 2- Place the Micro PC on a flat stable surface with its top side facing down.
  • Page 31 CIARA Astro PN64 1.6.2.2 Replacing the bottom cover 1- Insert the cable into the connectors (A), then close the flaps to secure the cable (B). Close the bottom cover (C). IMPORTANT! Ensure the PCB gold fingers on the cable are facing the connectors.
  • Page 32: Installing 2.5" Hdd Or Ssd

    CIARA Astro PN64 1.6.3 Installing 2.5” HDD or SSD 1- Prepare your 2.5” HDD or SSD, then align it with the storage bay on the bottom cover of your Micro PC. 2- Insert your HDD or SSD into the storage bay.
  • Page 33: Installation Of The Processor

    CIARA Astro PN64 1.6.5 Installation of the processor fan and the thermal pipe The processor is pre-installed at the factory and cannot be replaced. If you have to replace the processor fan and the thermal pipe, follow the procedure below.
  • Page 34: Installation Of The Memory Modules

    CIARA Astro PN64 1.6.6 Installation of the memory modules Your Micro PC comes with two SO-DIMM memory slots that allow you To install two DDR5 SO-DIMMs. IMPORTANT! Refer to http://www.asus.com for a list of compatible DIMMs. You can only install DDR5 SO-DIMMs to the Micro PC’s DIMM slots.
  • Page 35: Chassis Characteristics

    CIARA Astro PN64 1.6.8 Chassis Characteristics Mid-Tower Specifications Drive Bay Space : Int. 1 x 2.5" Power Source : External AC adapter 120 W Dimensions : 120 x 130 x 58 mm [0.9 L] Processor cooling fan : Rear exhaust fan...
  • Page 36: Certification And Declaration

    CIARA is licensed to supply the Windows 11 operating systems software with its CIARA Astro PN64 micro PCs. A package of the latest version of Windows software and a manual is included with the CIARA Astro PN64.
  • Page 37: Declaration Of Conformity

    CIARA Astro PN64 2.2 Declaration of conformity We, Manufacturer/Importer CIARA 9300 Trans-Canada Highway Montreal, Quebec H4S 1K5 Tel : (514) 798-8880 Fax : (514) 798-8889 Declare that the product Micro PC System CIARA Astro PN64 is in conformity with ICES-003 and Part 15 subpart B of the FCC Rules.
  • Page 38: Fcc Information To User

    Warning Changes or modifications not expressly approved by CIARA could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment. This equipment is equipped with a shielded 3-wire power cord and plug. Use this power cord in conjunction with a properly grounded electrical outlet to avoid electrical shock and to reduce radio frequency interference that may emanate from the power cord.
  • Page 39: Energy Star

    • The CIARA Astro PN64 micro PCs contribute significant energy savings nationwide. • The CIARA Astro PN64 micro PCs deliver the features and performance demanded by consumers, in addition to increased energy efficiency. • If the CIARA Astro PN64 micro PCs cost more than a conventional, less-efficient computer, purchasers will recover their investment in increased energy efficiency through utility bill savings, within a reasonable period of time.
  • Page 40: One Year Limited Warranty

    CIARA representative within one month of receipt of your system. If you have purchased a different type of warranty, or an extension to the standard warranty, you will need to provide the CIARA Service Contract Number to the Customer Support representative when placing a call for service or support.
  • Page 41: Procedures To Be Followed For Service During The Warranty Period

    Make a back-up copy of all of the files on your hard disk before returning your computer for service. CIARA is not responsible for the loss or damage of any data on the returned system. In some cases, hard disks may need to reformatted or replaced. It is the responsibility of the user to ensure data is backed up prior to shipment to CIARA.
  • Page 42: Limited Warranty

    User’s Guide which accompanies the Product or other misuse, abuse or negligence to the Product ; (ii) by the use of parts not manufactured or sold by CIARA ; (iii) by modification of the Product ; (iv) as a result of service by anyone other than CIARA or an Authorized CIARA Service Provider ;...
  • Page 43: Documenting Your Computer

    Please keep your equipment log up to date and include a copy of it whenever your equipment is returned to CIARA for servicing. The equipment log is also helpful if your CIARA computer is lost, stolen, or damaged. It can serve as your record of when the equipment was placed in service, and the dates of all equipment upgrades and configuration changes.
  • Page 44: Technical Product Specification Ciara Astro Pn64

    Astro PN64 can be configured for a wide range of special purpose, business, industrial and scientific applications. The information provided in this guide is all that you should need to set up and use your CIARA Astro PN64 micro PC. We offer Technical Reference Manuals for sale to knowledgeable users.
  • Page 45 CIARA Astro PN64 Processor : generation Intel® Core™ i5-12500H or i7-12700H with integrated Intel® Iris® Xe graphics controller, with BGA1744 connection. System Board : Asus® PN64 BIOS : Asus Flash BIOS standard, with ACPI, APM, ENERGY STAR®, DMI, Plug & Play and SMBIOS features.
  • Page 46: Upgrading

    4.1 Upgrading As the purchaser of a powerful state of the art CIARA Astro PN64 micro PC you have no doubt decided on the features and upgrade capabilities that you might wish to add to your computer. There are many exciting possibilities for upgrading your CIARA Astro PN64.
  • Page 47: Networking

    The purpose of this section is to describe the procedures to set up the BIOS configuration options of your CIARA Astro PN64 micro PC. All this work is done for you at the CIARA factory enabling the system to be ready to start on Power on. However, we are describing this procedure as a means of transparency.
  • Page 48: Bios Set-Up Program Menu Bar

    CIARA Astro PN64 4.3.2 BIOS set-up program menu bar NOTE ® ® To configure Intel AMT settings in Intel ME press <Ctrl>+<P> to activate the interface, while the system is booting. ® The default password for Intel ME is “admin”.
  • Page 49: Legacy Usb Support

    CIARA Astro PN64 4.3.4 Legacy USB support Legacy USB support enables USB devices to be used even when the operating system’s USB drivers are not yet available. Legacy USB support is used to access the BIOS Setup program, and to install an operating system that supports USB. By default, Legacy USB support is set to Enabled.
  • Page 50: Bios Recovery

    CIARA Astro PN64 4.3.7 BIOS recovery It is unlikely that anything will interrupt a BIOS update; however, if an interruption occurs, the BIOS could be damaged. The following table lists the drives and media types that can and cannot be used for BIOS recovery. The BIOS recovery media does not need to be made bootable.
  • Page 51: Adjusting Boot Speed

    CIARA Astro PN64 4.3.8.4 Changing the default boot device during POST Pressing the <F8> key during POST causes a boot device menu to be displayed. This menu displays the list of available boot devices (as set in the BIOS setup program’s Boot Device Priority Submenu). The following table lists the boot device menu options.
  • Page 52: Bios Security Features

    CIARA Astro PN64 4.3.10 BIOS security features The BIOS includes security features that restrict access to the BIOS Setup program and who can boot the computer. A supervisor password and a user password can be set for the BIOS Setup program and for booting the computer, with the following restrictions •...
  • Page 53: Disk Drives

    Many Serial ATA drives use new low-voltage power connectors and require adapters or power supplies equipped with low-voltage power connectors. 4.4.2 M.2 slots CIARA Astro PN64 system is equipped with one M.2 slot, M key, PCIe gen4 type 2280 to accommodate NVMe SSD drive. 4.5 Graphics subsystem 4.5.1 Integrated graphics The board supports system graphics through Intel®...
  • Page 54: Audio Subsystem

    4.7 I/O Port set-up Each CIARA Astro PN64 micro PC system includes built-in multi-I/O capabilities. These provide your computer with two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type A ports, one USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port and one audio jack (audio out, mic in, headphone out) at front panel. One USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type A port, one USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type C (Support DP1.4) port, two HDMI 2.0 ports, one empty port (punch out) (HDMI...
  • Page 55: Lan Connector Leds

    CIARA Astro PN64 4.8.2 RJ-45 LAN connector LEDs Two LEDs are built into the RJ-45 LAN connector located on the back panel (see Figure). These LEDs indicate the status of the LAN. Table 4.8 describes the LED states when the board is powered up and the LAN subsystem is operating.
  • Page 56: Replacing The System Battery

    In all CIARA Astro PN64 models the battery is a custom 3 V Lithium battery model CR-2032U made by Asus that can be installed only by CIARA. This type of battery should last at least 3 years, if the system is not in use. When the computer is plugged in, the standby current from the power supply extends the life of the battery.
  • Page 57: Spare Parts

    These spare parts will either correspond to the components in your system or will be a replacement equivalent or better than what you had in your system. You can procure these spare parts at any time by contacting CIARA at http://www.ciaratech.com...
  • Page 58: Glossary

    CIARA Astro PN64 GLOSSARY 32-Bit -- In computer architecture, 32-bit integers, memory addresses, or other data units are those that are at most 32 bits (4 octets) wide. Also, 32-bit CPU and ALU architectures are those that are based on registers, address buses, or data buses of that size. 32-bit is also a term given to a generation of computers in which 32-bit processors were the norm.
  • Page 59 CIARA Astro PN64 integrated circuit. Chip set -- The logic devices on the motherboard that connects the microprocessor and other board functions. Clock -- A circuit that sends a consistent, periodic signal that is used to step logic information through a computer circuit.
  • Page 60 CIARA Astro PN64 Jumper -- On a printed circuit board, a patch connector, wire, or cable used to establish a circuit. LCD -- A liquid crystal display (LCD) is a thin, flat electronic visual display that uses the light modulating properties of liquid crystals (LCs).
  • Page 61 CIARA Astro PN64 Resolution -- A measure of the quality of the image that can be shown on a particular display ; usually expressed as the number of pixels that can be displayed horizontally across the display screen by the number of pixels that can be displayed vertically on the display screen.
  • Page 62 CIARA Astro PN64 NOTES : - 62 -...
  • Page 63 CIARA Astro PN64 - 63 -...

Table of Contents