Tadpole COMET12 User Manual
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Tadpole COMET12 User Manual

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COMET12
User's Guide

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  • Page 1 COMET12 User’s Guide...
  • Page 2 Contact Information Please contact Tadpole at: North America Corporate Office 20450 Stevens Creek Boulevard Cupertino, CA 95014 Tel:408-973-9944 Fax: 760-973-9593 North American Customer Service 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM PST Tel: 1-800-734-7030 Fax: 760-930-0762 E-mail: support@tadpole.com Government Support Tadpole Computer, Inc.
  • Page 3 Tadpole. No patent liability is assumed with respect to the use of the information contained herein. While every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this publication, Tadpole assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions.
  • Page 4 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.
  • Page 5 Declaration of FCC, UL and CE Conformity We, Tadpole, 20450 Stevens Creek Boulevard, Third Floor Cupertino, CA 95014 (408) 973-9944 Declare under our sole responsibility that the product COMET comply with applicable FCC, UL, and CE Directives as listed in the section on COMET Specifications beginning on page 83.
  • Page 6 DOC Class B Notice This digital apparatus does not exceed Class B limits for radio noise emission for a digital apparatus as set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian Department of Communications. Shielded Cables Connections between the COMET notebook and periph- erals must be made using shielded cables in order to maintain compliance with FCC radio frequency emission limits.
  • Page 7 Modifications Modifications to this device not approved by Tadpole may void the authority granted to the user by the FCC to operate this equipment. Avis Le present appareil numerique ne met pas de bruits radio-electriques depassant les limites applicables aux...
  • Page 8 Do not immerse the COMET notebook in water. If water has entered the COMET notebook cabinet, do not use the notebook until it has been inspected by Tadpole. WARNING: Do not dispose of the COMET batteries in fire. Disposal of the COMET batteries in fire may cause per- sonal injury.
  • Page 9 Sicherheitshinweise WARNUNG: Beim Betrieb der COMET Notebook treten hohe Spannungen innerhalb des Gehauses auf. Bitte befol- gen Sie auf jeden Fall die Bedienungs- und Installationsanweisungen um jegliches Risiko einer Verletzung oder eines Personenschadens zu vermeiden. WARNUNG: Versuchen Sie auf keinen Fall, Ihre COMET Notebook mit Trockenbatterien (Primarzellen) zu betreiben oder solche mit dem Netz/Ladegerat zu laden.
  • Page 10 Important Safety Instructions The following instructions pertain to the risk of fire, electric shock or bodily injury. Please read all of these instructions carefully. Follow all of the instructions and warnings marked on this notebook or included in this manual. Do not use this notebook in unstable or unsupported condi- tions.
  • Page 11 Battery Warning Instruction WARNING: Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equipment type rec- ommended by the manufacturer. Dispose of used batteries according to the manufacturer's instructions. ATTENTION: Il y a danger d'explosion s'il y a remplace- ment incorrect de la batterie.
  • Page 12 Wichtige Sicherheitsvorschriften Unbedingt beachten Die nachfolgenden Anweisungen betreffen die Gefahr von Verletzungen durch elektrische Spannung, Feuer und mechanische Einwirkung. Bitte lesen sie diese Anweisungen sorgfaltig. Beachten Sie alle Hinweise, die am Gerat selbst angebracht oder in den zugehorigen Handbuchern vermerkt sind. Stellen Sie das Gerat an einem sicheren, stabilen Arbeitsplatz auf.
  • Page 13 Wartung der Notebook Wenn Ihre Notebook nicht ordnungsgemass arbeitet, dur- fen Sie nur die Einstellungen vornehmen, die im Handbuch genannt werden. Andere Einstellungen oder Veranderungen konnen den Rechner beschadigen oder zerstoren. Umfangreiche und kostspielige Reparaturen wurden notwendig werden, um das Gerat wieder betrieb- sfahig zu machen.

  • Page 14: Table Of Contents

    Table of Contents Preface .................xvii Conventions in this user guide............xviii xviii Symbols ..................xviii Notes ..................xviii Warnings and cautions............... Procedures ..................Keyboard conventions..............Screen messages................Variables................xix Table of figures..................xx Supplemental documentation ............xxii Chapter 1 - Overview .............1 COMET ....................2 COMET components................3 COMET features .................4 Customer service and support .............5...
  • Page 15 Table of Contents Chapter 3 - Using COMET..........17 Overview ...................18 Setting up...................19 Opening the display cover .............20 Closing the display cover ..............21 Providing power................22 Using batteries ................24 Operating COMET ................30 Starting COMET................31 Shutting COMET down ..............32 Moving COMET................33 Using COMET Features..............34 Using Smart Cards.................35 Using the USB ports ..............38 Using the Ethernet port..............40...
  • Page 16 Table of Contents Chapter 4 - Configuring COMET.......61 Overview ...................62 Accessing the Main Menu..............63 Servers ....................64 Connecting to a remote server............64 Connecting to a firmware server ...........65 TCP/IP ....................66 DHCP.....................67 Static ....................68 Wireless .....................69 Security....................73 Status ....................75 Version ...................76 Power .....................77 Radio ....................78 Advanced...................79 Video ....................79...

  • Page 17: Preface

    Preface...

  • Page 18: Conventions In This User Guide

    Preface Conventions Conventions in this user guide The following conventions are used in this Guide: Symbols The following symbols are used in this book: Special note for clarification. NOTE: Risk of personal injury and equipment damage. CAUTION: WARNING: Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced.

  • Page 19: Procedures

    Preface Conventions Procedures Procedures are numbered. Example: Turn on your notebook Keyboard conventions Keyboard keys are shown in initial upper-case type. Example: Type ls and press the Enter key to list the contents of a directory Screen messages Screen messages appear in type bounded by rules.

  • Page 20: Table Of Figures

    Preface Table of figures Table of figures Figure 1-1: COMET components ............3 Figure 2-1: Installing the battery ............9 Figure 2-2: Opening the COMET display ..........10 Figure 2-3: COMET components ............11 Figure 2-4: COMET front panel ............12 Figure 2-5: COMET right side .............12 Figure 2-6: COMET back panel ............13 Figure 2-7: COMET left side..............14 Figure 2-8: Bottom of COMET ............15...
  • Page 21 Preface Table of figures Figure 4-1: On Screen Display .............63 Figure 4-2: Enter Server IP prompt ............64 Figure 4-3: Changes saved screen ............65 Figure 4-4: TCP/IP DHCP submenu............66 Figure 4-5: Wireless setup submenu............70 Figure 4-6: Enter SSID (network name) prompt.........71 Figure 4-7: Enter WEP (encryption) prompt ........71 Figure 4-8: Enter WEP key (hex) prompt ...........72 Figure 4-9: The Security menu ............73...

  • Page 22: Supplemental Documentation

    Preface Supplemental documentation Supplemental documentation For more information on related COMET products and fea- tures, please visit the Customer Service area on the Tadpole web site at: http://www.tadpolecomputer.com/html/support/ You will also find additional documentation at the fol- lowing url: ftp://ftp.tadpole.com/support/Comet/Documentation/...

  • Page 23: Chapter 1 - Overview

    Chapter 1 Overview...

  • Page 24: Comet

    Overview COMET product line COMET Welcome to the COMET User’s Guide. The COMET is a wireless-enabled laptop equivalent of the Sun Ray thin client manufactured by Sun Microsystems. The Sun Ray computing model is com- prised of three basic parts: The thin client laptop unit (LTU) The COMET is an example of a thin client LTU.

  • Page 25: Comet Components

    Overview COMET components COMET components As you unpack your COMET, check the shipping carton and the components inside it for damage. Here are the items you should find in your shipping carton: Figure 1-1: COMET components If either the shipping carton is damaged or the COMET components are missing or damaged, please contact your shipper or dealer immediately.

  • Page 26: Comet Features

    Overview COMET features COMET features • 12.1” TFT-LCD XGA(1024 x 768) • Integrated 802.11a/b/g wireless networking • Integrated 10/100Base-TEthernet via RJ-45 socket • Three USBType-1 Connectors • 16-bit audio with two 3.5mm Audio jacks for Microphone-In/Headphone-out • ISO-7616-1 SMARTcard reader •...

  • Page 27: Customer Service And Support

    If the information presented in this guide does not meet your needs, or you have questions, you may contact Tadpole's Customer Service and Support staff using the contact information found on page ii. Before you call, make a note of the serial number as it appears on the bottom of the COMET as shown in Figure 2-8.
  • Page 28 this page blank COMET User’s Guide...

  • Page 29: Chapter 2 - Getting Started

    Chapter 2 Getting Started...

  • Page 30: Overview

    Getting Started Overview Overview This chapter on Getting Started provides a brief, pictorial introduction to get you started. The next chapter, “Using COMET” on page 17, describes more detailed informa- tion about these features. A few minutes spent on these two chapters will ensure you get the most out of the COMET.

  • Page 31: First Steps

    Getting Started First steps First steps Once you've completed the following steps, you'll be ready to start working with your COMET. Check the ambient air temperature to make sure it is between 41–104º F (5–40º C). CAUTION: If your notebook has been exposed to tempera- ture extremes (variations of more than 10 degrees of temper- ature or 10 percentage points of humidity), you will need to stabilize the notebook's temperature.

  • Page 32: Figure 2-2: Opening The Comet Display

    Getting Started First steps WARNING: Use only COMET batteries. Never insert a battery made for another model of notebook computer or for any other computer or appliance, even if its appearance is similar. For AC power operation, plug in the AC power adapter. The battery need not be installed for AC operation.

  • Page 33: Identifying Components And Features

    Getting Started First steps Identifying components and features System with the display open Identify the following components and features of the COMET: 1 Case Latch 5 Keyboard 2 Display 6 Touch Pad 3 Power button 7 Touch Pad Left, Middle, and Right Buttons 4 Status/Indication LEDs Figure 2-3: COMET components COMET User’s Guide...

  • Page 34: Front Panel

    Getting Started First steps Front panel Identify the following items on the front of the COMET: 1 Microphone 3 Volume Dial 2 Headphone-SPDIF out Figure 2-4: COMET front panel Right side Identify the following ports on the right side of the COMET: 1 Unused 3 USB 2 Smart Card Slot...

  • Page 35: Back Panel

    Getting Started First steps Back panel Identify the following ports on the back panel of the COMET: 1 AC Power Input 4 Status Lights 2 USB 5 VGA Monitor 3 Battery Pack Figure 2-6: COMET back panel COMET User’s Guide...

  • Page 36: Left Side

    Getting Started First steps Left side Identify the following ports on the left side of the COMET: 1 Kensington Lock 3 10/100Base-T Ethernet 2 Unused 4 Unused Figure 2-7: COMET left side COMET User’s Guide...

  • Page 37: Bottom Of The Comet

    Getting Started First steps Bottom of the COMET Identify the following ports on the bottom of the COMET: 1 Speakers 5 Serial number 2 Battery pack 6 Door for expanded battery 3 Battery release lock 7 Access Cover (Do Not Remove) 4 Battery release latch 8 Mini-PCI cover (Back)

  • Page 38: Powering Up

    Getting Started Powering up Powering up The following steps outline the process for powering your COMET system up. Turn on your COMET with the Power switch which is above the top right part of the keyboard as shown in the figure below, making sure the COMET is connected to your Sun Ray Server Figure 2-9: COMET power switch...

  • Page 39: Chapter 3 - Using Comet

    Chapter 3 Using COMET...

  • Page 40: Overview

    Using COMET 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 ben- efit from your COMET. COMET User’s Guide...

  • Page 41: Setting Up

    Using COMET Setting up Setting up The COMET is designed to provide many years of error- free operation. The notebook will last longer by follow- ing these guidelines: • Position the COMET so you can easily access the connec- tors on the back and side panels. •...

  • Page 42: Opening The Display Cover

    Using COMET Setting up Opening the display cover The display is located on the inside of the top cover. When you are not using the COMET, the cover should remain closed. This protects the display against damage. To open the display cover: Slide the display cover latch to the right to release the dis- play cover and gently raise the cover to an upright position as shown in the illustration below.

  • Page 43: Closing The Display Cover

    Using COMET Setting up Closing the display cover To close the display cover: Gently pull the cover forward and down. Carefully press the top of the cover down toward the key- board until the case latch “clicks” into its closed position. If the cover is closed while the COMET is still running, the LCD goes to sleep.

  • Page 44: Providing Power

    Using COMET Setting up Providing power The COMET 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 COMET. The bat- tery need not be installed for AC operation. To power the COMET from AC power: Locate the COMET near an AC outlet.
  • Page 45 Using COMET Setting up 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 COMET. COMET User’s Guide...

  • Page 46: Using Batteries

    Using COMET Setting up Using batteries The COMET comes with a Li-ion battery pack. For sys- tems that may be left turned on while inactive, battery life is greatly increased by setting the system to turn off the backlight. The procedure for turning off the backlight is described on page 79.

  • Page 47: Figure 3-4: Removing The Battery

    Using COMET Setting up Recharging a new battery 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 COMET is turned off. Removing the battery Shut down the COMET according to the instructions in “Shutting COMET down”...

  • Page 48: Figure 3-5: Cover For The Expansion Battery Connector Bay

    Using COMET Setting up Installing the expansion battery pack To install the expansion battery pack: Locate the cover for the expansion battery connector bay on the bottom of COMET. Lift and rotate the cover snapping it into the cover indentation to the expose the connector. Lift here Figure 3-5: Cover for the expansion battery connector bay Figure 3-6: Expansion battery connector exposed...

  • Page 49: Figure 3-7: Expansion Battery Lock In The Open Position

    Using COMET Setting up As shown in the illustration below, make sure that the locking screws on the back edge of the expansion battery pack are aligned so that the raised dots on the screws are opposite the Unlock icon. Raised dot Figure 3-7: Expansion battery lock in the open position COMET User’s Guide...

  • Page 50: Figure 3-8: Expansion Battery Aligned In Place

    Using COMET Setting up Place the expansion battery pack on the bottom of COMET and apply pressure on the back of the battery pack, sliding it towards the front edge of the system. When the expansion battery is attached, it slides down into place if oriented as it is in the photo.

  • Page 51: Figure 3-9: Expansion Battery Locked In Place

    Using COMET Setting up Use a small coin to rotate both locking screws so that the raised dots are opposite the Lock icon to securely lock the expansion battery in place. Figure 3-9: Expansion battery locked in place Recharging a new expansion battery pack After installing a new expansion battery pack, use the AC adapter to recharge the battery.

  • Page 52: Operating Comet

    Using COMET Operating COMET Operating COMET Before turning on your COMET thin client notebook and beginning your day, you will need to make sure the note- book is acclimated to its environment. Make sure the notebook is at room temperature before powering up.

  • Page 53: Starting Comet

    Using COMET Operating COMET Starting COMET To ensure long life and ease of operation, you need to follow a few general guidelines when starting up and shutting down your COMET thin client notebook. CAUTION: Failure to start up and shut down the COMET notebook properly can damage important system files and may affect your product warranty.

  • Page 54: Shutting Comet Down

    Using COMET Operating COMET Shutting COMET down Since the COMET is a thin client with no local storage capability, to power down you may simply press the power button. Any open processes/files will remain open and tie up NOTE: server resources, so you may want to save your work and quit any open applications before shutting down.

  • Page 55: Moving Comet

    Using COMET Operating COMET Moving COMET If you want to move the COMET after shutting down, perform the following procedures: Disconnect all cables and connectors (including the AC adapter cable) from the COMET. Fold the display cover down and close and latch the case. You can now move the COMET to a new location, recon- nect, and restart.

  • Page 56: Using Comet Features

    Using COMET Operating COMET Using COMET features This section contains operational tips and other information unique to the COMET feature set. For more detailed information on a listed feature, refer to “COMET Specifications” on page 93. COMET User’s Guide...

  • Page 57: Using Smart Cards

    Using COMET Using COMET features Using Smart Cards Your COMET thin client notebook features one Smart Card slot as shown in Figure 3-10. Figure 3-10: Smart Card slot COMET User’s Guide...

  • Page 58: Figure 3-11: Inserting A Smart Card

    Using COMET Using COMET features Inserting a Smart Card Please refer to Figure 3-11 and the following instructions for inserting a Smart Card: Locate the Smart Card slot on the right side of the COMET as shown in the following illustration. Hold the Smart Card with the chip side up.

  • Page 59: Figure 3-12: Removing A Smart Card

    Using COMET Using COMET features Removing a Smart Card Please refer to Figure 3-12 and the following instructions for removing a Smart Card: Grasp the exposed edge of the Smart Card. Pull out as shown to remove. Figure 3-12: Removing a Smart Card COMET User’s Guide...

  • Page 60: Using The Usb Ports

    Using COMET Using COMET features Using the USB ports The COMET fully supports USB keyboards and mice. Check with your server administrator to see what addi- tional USB peripherals may be supported for your COMET thin client. COMET User’s Guide...

  • Page 61: Figure 3-13: Right Side Usb Ports

    Using COMET Using COMET features USB ports The COMET has 3 USB ports located on the right side and back panel of the system as shown in the figures below. Figure 3-13: Right side USB ports Figure 3-14: Back panel USB port COMET User’s Guide...

  • Page 62: Using The Ethernet Port

    Using COMET Using COMET features Using the Ethernet port To connect the COMET 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 one of the COMET’s 10/100-Base T Ethernet LAN port. Figure 3-15: RJ-45 Ethernet port COMET User’s Guide...

  • Page 63: Using The Wireless Lan

    Using COMET Using COMET features Using the Wireless LAN Wireless networking is supported in the COMET. However, the wireless card may not be turned on at the factory. To turn on the wireless card, press the Function- F2 keyboard combination. For more information about configuring the wireless capabilities, please refer to Chapter 4 - Configuring COMET.

  • Page 64: Integrated Keyboard

    Using COMET Using COMET features Integrated keyboard Your COMET computer features a low-profile 87 key enhanced keyboard that emulates all the functions of a full-size 101/102 key keyboard including an embedded keypad and a full array of special function keys. This sec- tion covers the COMET’s keyboard, and identifies several keys that are commonly used when working with either the Operating System or other software.
  • Page 65 Using COMET Integrated keyboard The alphanumeric keys located on the keyboard are in the same position as those found on a standard type- writer. This section identifies some of these keys and dis- cusses their functions when used with either the Operating System Software or other application soft- ware, such as word processors, spread sheet applications, or database management programs.

  • Page 66: Special Keys

    Using COMET Integrated keyboard Special keys Refer to Figure 3-16 for the locations of the keys described in this section. [Esc] The Escape key allows you to cancel any specific com- mand you may have just keyed in. For example, if you mistakenly hit the function key, [F1], in your word processor or spread sheet program, but want to “cancel”...
  • Page 67 Using COMET Integrated keyboard [Caps Lock] The [Caps Lock] key corresponds to a typewriter's Shift Lock key, but it only affects letter keys. The number keys and function keys are not affected. Even with the [Caps Lock] key engaged, if you want to generate the symbols and punctuation marks above the number keys, you must still use the [Shift] key.

  • Page 68: Modifier Keys

    Using COMET Integrated keyboard Modifier keys The following keys only function when used in conjunc- tion with other keys. [Fn] Pressing this key engages the alternate function (labeled in blue) on selected keys. For example, simultaneously pressing the [Fn] + [F9] keys decreases the display brightness.

  • Page 69: Cursor Control And Editing Keys

    Using COMET Integrated keyboard Cursor control and editing keys The keys listed in this section are specifically used to move the cursor on the display. When used in combina- tion with other keys, these cursor control keys provide some very powerful editing functions. The cursor's location indicates where you can type text on the screen.
  • Page 70 Using COMET Integrated keyboard [Insert] The Insert key is used mainly for editing. It enables you to insert characters within the text while interacting with the OS. Some applications, however, automatically insert text while within a document, so depending upon the software you are using you may or may not need to use this key.

  • Page 71: Function Keys

    Using COMET Integrated keyboard Function keys Notice the twelve function keys at the top of the key- board. These keys appear in sequence ([F1], [F2], [F3], . . . [F11], [F12]) from left to right. The functions these keys perform vary with respect to the software in use. When using an external keyboard, the Fn key can be simulated by pressing the left-Ctrl + left-Alt keys.

  • Page 72: Common Keyboard Combinations

    Using COMET Integrated keyboard Common keyboard combinations The following table lists commonly used keyboard com- binations for the COMET. Key Combinations Definitions Opens GNOME terminal help if server is a JDS Release 2 unit Toggles Radio on/off for the wireless card Toggles Mute on and off Raises sound volume Lowers sound volume...

  • Page 73: Sun Ray Server-Specific Hot Keys

    Using COMET Integrated keyboard Sun Ray server-specific hot keys Sun Ray Server Software supports a number of default hot key combinations for DTUs and LTUs. Hot keys are configurable. Consult the Sun Ray Server Software Administrator’s Guide for more detailed information. The following chart lists the hot key combinations that are supported on the COMET.

  • Page 74: The Touch Pad

    Using COMET Integrated keyboard The Touch Pad The touch pad is a touch-sensitive pointing device that provides all the features of a mouse. Please refer to Figure 3-17 and the following sections for the touch pad's operating instructions. Figure 3-17: The Touch Pad COMET User’s Guide...

  • Page 75: Using The Touch Pad

    Using COMET The Touch Pad Using the Touch Pad Place your fingers on the keyboard in the normal typing position. The touch pad is easily accessible by moving either your left or right thumb off the space bar and on to the touch pad. Gently move your thumb across the touch pad in the direc- tion you want the cursor to move.
  • Page 76 Using COMET The Touch Pad Double-tapping Double-tapping is another technique for selecting objects or executing applications from icons. For the most part double-tapping is very similar to the double-clicking technique of a mouse. The difference is that instead of double-clicking on a mouse button, you double-tap on the pressure sensitive touch pad to make the selection.

  • Page 77: Using An External Display

    Using COMET Using an external display Using an external display To connect an external monitor: Shut down the COMET according to the instructions in “Shutting COMET down” on page 32. Connect the cable from the monitor to the COMET’s external 15-pin VGA video port. Figure 3-18: External monitor port When you start your notebook with an external display device, such as an external monitor or projector, attached...

  • Page 78: Using An External Keyboard Or Pointing Device

    Using COMET Using an external keyboard or pointing device Using an external keyboard or pointing device To use an external keyboard or pointing device: Simply connect the keyboard or pointing device to one of the USB ports on COMET. (You do not need to power down your COMET before connecting or disconnecting these devices when using the USB ports.) Figure 3-19: USB ports...

  • Page 79: Status Indicator Leds

    Using COMET Status indicator LEDs Status indicator LEDs The COMET includes 7 status indicator LEDs, located on the lower center portion of the display (both sides) and the upper left portion of the keyboard as shown in Figures 3-20 and 3-21. These indicators inform you of the COMET’s current operating status at a glance.

  • Page 80: Status Indicator Leds On The Display/Cover

    Using COMET Status indicator LEDs Status indicator LEDs on the display/cover There are three status indicator LEDs located on both the inside and outside of the display/cover panel of COMET. The inside LEDs are shown in the illustration below. Power Battery Wireless Figure 3-20: LEDs on lower portion of the display...

  • Page 81: Status Indicator Leds Above The Keyboard

    Using COMET Status indicator LEDs Status indicator LEDs above the keyboard There are four status indicator LEDs located above the left side of the keyboard of COMET. These indicator LEDs are shown in the illustration below. Scroll Lock Smart Card Caps Lock Number Lock Figure 3-21: LEDs on the top of the keyboard Smart Card LED...
  • Page 82 this page blank COMET User’s Guide...

  • Page 83: Chapter 4 - Configuring Comet

    Chapter 4 Configuring COMET...

  • Page 84: Overview

    Configuring COMET Overview Overview The COMET has a menu system built in to the firmware which allows the user or an administrator to configure an array of COMET features. NOTE: The Stop key is the “Menu” key which is located above the End key. It is the second key from the bottom on the right side of the keyboard.

  • Page 85: Accessing The Main Menu

    Configuring COMET Accessing the Main Menu Accessing the Main Menu To access the COMET menu system, follow these steps: Turn on the COMET Press Stop-M The menu will come up in the On Screen Display (OSD) as shown below Figure 4-1: On Screen Display Pressing Esc will exit the Main Menu.

  • Page 86: Servers

    Configuring COMET Servers Servers Connecting to a remote server The Servers submenu allows users to configure the COMET to connect to a remote server via a WAN. When the menu is first accessed, the default selection is Servers. To go to the Servers sub menu, press Enter. At the Enter Server IP [1]prompt enter the IP address of the Sun Ray Server to which you want to connect and press Enter.

  • Page 87: Connecting To A Firmware Server

    Configuring COMET Servers Connecting to a firmware server You can also enter the IP address of a Firmware Server. To enter the IP address of a firmware server, press Enter a second time after entering the IP address of a Sun Ray Server. You will then get an Enter Firmware Server IP:prompt.

  • Page 88: Tcp/Ip

    Configuring COMET TCP/IP TCP/IP To go to the TCP/IP submenu (shown in the illustration below), use the down arrow to navigate to TCP/IP in the menu. When it is highlighted, press Enter. Under TCP/IP there are 2 submenus: DHCP and Static. Figure 4-4: TCP/IP DHCP submenu COMET User’s Guide...

  • Page 89: Dhcp

    Configuring COMET TCP/IP DHCP At the Enter MTU prompt, enter the MTU for your net- work. You may need to contact your network administra- tor for this information. The MTU is the size of the largest datagram that your network can transmit. A value of 1500 (the built-in default) is typical for most net- works.

  • Page 90: Static

    Configuring COMET TCP/IP Static If your COMET has been assigned a static IP address, you may enter it here. In succession, you will be prompt- ed with the following: • Enter IP Address: • Enter Netmask: • Enter Router: • Enter Broadcast: •...

  • Page 91: Wireless

    Configuring COMET Wireless Wireless The COMET has a built-in wireless card. To connect to your server via the wireless interface, you will need to have an 802.11x wireless access point or wireless router that is configured for your Sun Ray network. Make sure the Ethernet port is not connected to the net- work.

  • Page 92: Figure 4-5: Wireless Setup Submenu

    Configuring COMET Wireless To configured the COMET for your wireless access point, do the following: With the unit turned on, press Stop-Wor press Stop-Mand select Wireless from the Main Menu. At the Enable wireless network?Prompt, select Yes and press Enter (to navigate between selections, you can use either the Tab key or the left/right/up/down arrows).

  • Page 93: Figure 4-6: Enter Ssid (Network Name) Prompt

    Configuring COMET Wireless At the Enter SSID (network name)prompt, enter the SSID of your wireless network and press Enter. Figure 4-6: Enter SSID (network name) prompt At the Enable WEP (encryption)Prompt, answer as appropriate for your network and press Enter. Figure 4-7: Enter WEP (encryption) prompt COMET User’s Guide...

  • Page 94: Figure 4-8: Enter Wep Key (Hex) Prompt

    Configuring COMET Wireless If you selected Yes for WEP encryption, enter the hexadeci- mal WEP key for your wireless network and press Enter. Figure 4-8: Enter WEP key (hex) prompt After you have entered the information, you are prompt- ed with a Save Changes screen. Select Yes or No as appropriate.

  • Page 95: Security

    Configuring COMET Security Security The Security submenu allows the setting of an adminis- trative password. Once a password is set via the Security menu, the Main Menu and all sub menus can only be accessed with the entering of the password. To go to the Security submenu (as shown below), use the down arrow to navigate to Security in the menu.

  • Page 96: Figure 4-10: The Change Password Screen

    Configuring COMET Security Enter your password in the Change Password screen (as shown below) and press Enter. You are prompted to repeat the password. Do so and press Enter. Figure 4-10: The Change Password screen At the Password changed. window, press Enter to return to the Main Menu.

  • Page 97: Status

    Configuring COMET Status Status Highlighting Status on the Main Menu and pressing Enter brings you to the Status Menu, which gives access to firmware version information, battery status, and wire- less radio information. Figure 4-11: The Status Menu screen Navigate to the selection you want and press Enter. COMET User’s Guide...

  • Page 98: Version

    Configuring COMET Status Version The Version screen displays the hardware version of the COMET, the firmware version of the COMET, and the MAC Address. You can also access this by pressing Stop-V. Figure 4-12: The Version screen COMET User’s Guide...

  • Page 99: Power

    The Power Status screen displays information related to the battery. Figure 4-13: The Power Status screen NOTE: Battery status is also indicated by the Power LED. The faster the Power LED flashes, the lower the battery charge is. COMET12 User’s Guide...

  • Page 100: Radio

    OSD shows the following: • The SSID of the access point to which the COMET has connected • The bandwidth, frequency, and signal strength of the connection • Signal and Noise information Figure 4-14: The Radio Status screen COMET12 User’s Guide...

  • Page 101: Advanced

    Enter the number of minutes of no activity you want the COMET to wait before turning off the display. Press Enter. If you are satisfied with the setting, press Enter to select OK. The setting will go into effect when you exit the menu system. COMET12 User’s Guide...

  • Page 102: Wireless Tunables

    Configuring COMET Advanced Wireless Tunables The Advanced Menu with Wireless Tunables selected is shown below. Figure 4-16: The Advanced Menu The Wireless Tunables submenu allows the user to adjust the values for Fragmentation Threshold and RTS/CTS Threshold. COMET12 User’s Guide...

  • Page 103: Factory Reset

    On the Factory Reset menu, the user is prompted with "Really reset all settings to factory defaults?" The user can select Cancel or Reset All. Selecting Reset All will reset the system immediately. There is no confirmation screen after the selection. COMET12 User’s Guide...

  • Page 104: Exit

    Exit on the second page of the Main Menu. When it is highlighted, press Enter. Figure 4-18: The Exit option Users can also exit the menu system by pressing Esc when at the top level of the Main Menu. COMET12 User’s Guide...

  • Page 105: Chapter 5 - Maintaining Comet

    Chapter 5 Maintaining COMET...

  • Page 106: Overview

    Maintaining COMET Subtitle Overview It is important to maintain the COMET. This chapter pro- vides information for cleaning, packing, and storing the notebook, and battery use and maintenance. COMET User’s Guide...

  • Page 107: Cautions

    Behandlung kann ihre COMET Notebook beschadigt werden, ausserdem erlischt dadurch die Garantie. CAUTION: Changes or modifications to the COMET not expressly approved by Tadpole could void your authority to operate COMET. If the product does not operate normally, adjust only those controls that are covered by the operating instruc- tions.

  • Page 108: Cleaning Comet

    Maintaining COMET Cleaning COMET Cleaning COMET As a portable notebook, the COMET may collect dust and dirt, requiring occasional cleaning. To clean the COMET: Shut down the COMET according to the instructions in “Shutting COMET down” on page 32. Unplug the AC adapter/charger and remove the battery from the system before cleaning.

  • Page 109: Packing And Shipping

    Keep and use the origi- nal shipping container. NOTE: If the original materials are unavailable, contact Tadpole customer service for a new container. The original shipping containers are specifically designed for the COMET notebook.

  • Page 110: Storage

    Maintaining COMET Storage Storage If you intend to store the COMET longer than 60 days: Fully discharge and remove the battery (see the section on “Battery use and maintenance” on page 90). Do not store the COMET for extended periods with the battery installed. Disconnect all cables and pack the COMET as described in “Packing and shipping”...

  • Page 111: Unpacking From Storage

    Maintaining COMET Unpacking from storage Unpacking from storage When you want to start using the COMET again: Give the COMET enough time to stabilize at room temper- ature before operating. This is particularly important when the notebook is brought from a very cold environment into a warm room.

  • Page 112: Battery Use And Maintenance

    Maintaining COMET Battery use and maintenance Battery use and maintenance The COMET’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. To prolong battery use, use the brightness push-buttons (Fn + F9) on the integrated keyboard to reduce the brightness of, and the power consumption by, the LCD.
  • Page 113 When this occurs, you must replace the worn out battery with a new one. Replacement batteries can be obtained from a Tadpole representative. CAUTION: Worn batteries should be discarded in accor- dance with the disposal requirements for your area.
  • Page 114 this page blank COMET User’s Guide...

  • Page 115: Chapter 6 - Comet Specifications

    Chapter 6 COMET Specifications...
  • Page 116 COMET Specifications COMET Specifications DISPLAY 12.1”TFT-LCD XGA (1024 x 768) NETWORKING Integrated 802.11a/b/g wireless networking Integrated 10/100Base-T Ethernet via RJ-45 socket Three USB Type-1 Connectors AUDIO 16-bit audio. Two 3.5mm Audio jacks for Microphone-In/Headphone-out SMART CARD ISO-7616-1 SMART card reader KEYBOARD/MOUSE Full 83-key keyboard.
  • Page 117 COMET Specifications Environmental TEMPERATURE Operating: 5°C - 40°C (41°F - 104°F) Storage: -20°C - 60°C (-4°F - 140°F) HUMIDITY Operating: 20% to 80% (non-condensing) Storage: 93% (non-condensing) ALTITUDE 0 – 40,000ft (0 – 12,000m) SECURITY Kensington Lock Attachment Regulatory Compliance FCC Class B CE (EN55022 Class “B”, EN50081-1, EN50082-1,...
  • Page 118 this page blank COMET User’s Guide...

  • Page 119: Index

    Index...
  • Page 120 Index AC adapter keyboard viii,xx,3,10,22,23,25,29,33 ,xiv,xv,xviii,xix,xx,4,16,20,21, AC operation ,10,22 31,41,42,43,44,45,46,47,48,49, AC power ,x,10,13,22,58,94 50,51,52,53,56,57,59,62,94 ambient air temperature ,9 keyboard combinations ,xv,20,50 battery bay ,9,24,25 LCD ,4,19,21,94 battery, lithium-ion ,9,22 LCD, backlight intensity ,20 battery, recharge viii,25 LCD, viewing angle ,20 brightness ,20,46,50 LEDS ,xv,xx,57,58,59 Caution ,xviii,9,19,31...
  • Page 121 Index USB ,xv,xx,4,12,13,38,39,56,94 ventilation ,x,19 VGA ,13,55 Warning viii,xi,xviii,10,22 Wireless LAN ,xv,41 COMET Product Family User’s Guide...
  • Page 122 Index COMET User’s Guide...

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