NEC VERSA VXi Service And Reference Manual

NEC VERSA VXi Service And Reference Manual

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NEC Versa Series Notebook Computers
N E C V
V X i
®
E R S A
S E R V I C E A N D
R E F E R E N C E M A N U A L
NEC COMPUTERS INC.

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Summary of Contents for NEC VERSA VXi

  • Page 1 NEC Versa Series Notebook Computers N E C V V X i ® E R S A S E R V I C E A N D R E F E R E N C E M A N U A L...
  • Page 2 Reproduction of this document or portions thereof without prior written approval of NECC is prohibited. NEC and Versa are registered trademarks of NEC Corporation and/or one or more of its subsidiaries. All are used under license.
  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Contents Preface ..............................vii Abbreviations............................ix 1 System Overview About the NEC Versa VXi Notebook....................1-2 Around the Front of the System......................1-3 LCD Panel............................1-3 Control Panel ..........................1-4 Power Button........................1-4 Status Icons.........................1-5 Keyboard Panel and Base Unit ......................1-6 Around the Back of the System ......................1-9 Around the Left Side of the System....................1-10...
  • Page 4 Setting a Personal Code....................... 2-32 NEC Info Center ..........................2-32 Installing the NEC Info Center....................2-32 Uninstalling the NEC Info Center ....................2-32 Partition Magic ..........................2-33 Application and Driver CD ....................... 2-33 Launching the Application and Driver CD with Windows 98 ............ 2-33 Launching the Application and Driver CD with Windows 2000/NT..........
  • Page 5 7 Troubleshooting Quick Troubleshooting ........................7-2 Helpful Questions ..........................7-5 8 Getting Services and Support Services and Support Contact Information ..................8-2 NEC Computers Web Site ........................8-2 NEC Computers FTP Site........................8-3 Email/Fax to Support Services ......................8-3 NEC Computers Technical Support Services ..................8-3 Contents v...
  • Page 6 9 Specifications System Components..........................9-2 Memory Map ............................9-8 Interrupt Controllers..........................9-8 Glossary Index vi Contents...
  • Page 7: Preface

    Chapter 6, Preventive Maintenance, lists general notebook preventive maintenance procedures. Chapter 7, Troubleshooting, lists troubleshooting procedures as well as helpful servicing hints. Chapter 8, Getting Services and Support, provides information on how to contact NEC Computers for service information and technical support.
  • Page 8: Abbreviations

    Abbreviations ampere error checking and correction alternating current enhanced capabilities port Advanced Graphics Port extended data output advanced technology Enhanced Graphics Adapter (IBM PC) enhanced parallel port binary-coded decimal EPROM erasable and programmable BIOS Customized Utility BIOS basic input/output system EVGA Enhanced Video Graphics Array...
  • Page 9 kilohertz read pound real-time clock light-emitting diode read/write liquid crystal display slave least-significant bit SCSI Small Computer System Interface large-scale integration SDRAM synchronous dynamic mega random-access memory milliamps signal ground maximum SIMM single inline memory module megabyte standard page mode Monochrome Display Adapter Sound Retrieval System modified frequency modulation...
  • Page 10: System Overview

    System Overview About the NEC Versa VXi Notebook Around the Front of the System Around the Back of the System Around the Left Side of the System Around the Right Side of the System Around the Bottom of the System...
  • Page 11 In addition, the system provides a high-performance hard disk drive, diskette drive, PC card support, 24X CD-ROM drive, DVD-ROM drive, CD read/write drive, or combination DVD- ROM and CD read/write drive. The NEC Versa VXi comes with Windows 98SE, Windows NT, or Windows 2000 operating system preinstalled. To optimize connectivity options, some models ship with an internal mini-PCI modem, internal mini-PCI LAN, or combination internal mini- PCI LAN/modem.
  • Page 12: Lcd Panel

    (LCD) panel. LCD Panel The NEC Versa VXi comes with a color LCD panel that is adjustable for a comfortable viewing position. The LCD panel is available with a 12.1-inch Super Video Graphics Array (SVGA) color display or a 13.3/14.1-inch Extended Graphics Array (XGA) color display.
  • Page 13: Control Panel

    Control Panel The NEC Versa VXi control panel provides the features shown in the following figure. The control panel features are described after the figure. Control panel A – CD Control Buttons or Password Buttons D – Internet Button B – Status LEDs E –...
  • Page 14: Status Icons

    Hard Drive Access — lights when the NEC Versa VXi accesses the hard disk drive, CD-ROM drive, or DVD-ROM drive. Diskette Drive Access — lights when the NEC Versa VXi writes data to or retrieves data from the diskette drive.
  • Page 15: Keyboard Panel And Base Unit

    Keyboard Panel and Base Unit The NEC Versa VXi keyboard panel and base unit has the following features. The keyboard panel and base unit features are described after the figure. Keyboard panel A – Keyboard B – NEC VersaGlide Base unit A –...
  • Page 16 Function keys are application-driven. See the specific application’s user guide for information about how each function key works within the application being used. The following function key combinations are pre-programmed for the NEC Versa VXi. — Simulates pressing the right control key to support IBM 327X connections Fn-Left Ctrl (not supported in U.S./Canada).
  • Page 17 VersaGlide to select menu items. Speakers — provides stereo sound for multimedia presentations or listening pleasure. IR Port — allows file transfer between the NEC Versa and an IR-equipped desktop or notebook computer. Microphone — allows recording of monophonic sound directly into the notebook computer.
  • Page 18: Around The Back Of The System

    Y-adapter cable, you can connect up to two of these devices at the same time. AC Power Port — Attach the NEC Versa VXi to the AC power source using the AC adapter that comes with the system. Keep the system connected to AC power whenever possible to keep the battery pack and internal CMOS battery charged.
  • Page 19: Around The Left Side Of The System

    Around the Left Side of the System The left side of the NEC Versa VXi has the features shown in the following figure. The left side features are described after the figure. Left side features A – Kensington Lock Latch C –...
  • Page 20: Around The Bottom Of The System

    The NEC Port Replicator is an accessory that duplicates some of the ports found on the back of the NEC Versa VXi system. It also has a LAN port for a network connection and a Kensington lock. The lock secures the NEC Versa VXi to the Port Replicator and secures the Port Replicator to the desk.
  • Page 21: Internal Components

    Review the following sections for a description of the system’s internal hardware. Battery Pack The Nickel Metal-Hydride or Lithium-Ion battery is the main power source in the NEC Versa VXi computer. Chapter 9 lists battery specifications. The battery pack installs in the compartment on the bottom of the NEC Versa.
  • Page 22: Cmos Battery

    The CMOS battery charges when the NEC Versa is connected to AC power. The CMOS battery may discharge completely if the NEC Versa notebook remains unused for approximately two months.
  • Page 23: System Configuration And Setup

    System Configuration and Setup Power Sources for the NEC Versa BIOS Setup Updating the BIOS Managing System Power NEC Utilities SpeedStep Applet SoftDVD Player NEC CW-RW CD Personal Code Setting Utility NEC Info Center Partition Magic Application and Driver CD...
  • Page 24: Using The Ac Adapter

    See the following sections for specific information about using the NEC power sources. Using the AC Adapter Use the AC adapter and power cable that came with the NEC Versa to run the computer on alternating current (AC) power, or to recharge the battery pack. Use the AC adapter whenever a wall outlet is nearby.
  • Page 25: Powering The System On And Off

    Check the box to enable Hibernate support. Click OK and close Control Panel. Using the Battery The NEC Versa VXi system comes with a rechargeable Nickel Metal-Hydride (NiMH) or Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) battery. Battery packs are easy to install and remove. Note Although the battery is fully charged at the factory, transit and shelf time may reduce the initial battery charge.
  • Page 26: Replacing The Battery

    Replacing the Battery Replace the battery installed in the system as follows. Be sure to save data before replacing the battery or connecting the AC adapter. Failure to do so can result in data loss. Save all files, exit Windows, and turn off system power. Close the LCD panel and turn over the system.
  • Page 27: Low Battery Power

    Hot to the touch. Strange odor. Extending Battery Life The NEC Versa VXi NiMH or Li-Ion battery life is affected by the following conditions: When it is new and fully charged. When no peripherals are connected to the NEC Versa VXi.
  • Page 28: Conserving Battery Power

    In the Windows 2000 environment, the default setting for a critical low battery state is Standby. Standby does not power down the system to conserve battery power. NEC Computers recommends changing the Windows 2000 Standby default setting for a critical low battery state to Hibernate to prevent data loss during battery-powered system operation.
  • Page 29: Battery Precautions

    Precautions for Recharging the Battery Adhere to the following precautions when recharging the battery. Use only the NEC battery charger designed for the NEC Versa battery type. Different NEC Versa models require different batteries and battery chargers. Charge the battery for the specified charge time only.
  • Page 30: System Power Cord

    BIOS Setup The NEC Versa VXi computer comes with a BIOS Setup hardware program that allows viewing and setting of system parameters. BIOS Setup also allows setting of password features that protect the system from unauthorized use.
  • Page 31: Bios Setup Main Menu

    BIOS Setup Main Menu After pressing , the system displays the BIOS Setup Main Menu screen, similar to the following. BIOS Setup Main Menu Use the up and down arrow keys (located on the lower right corner of the keyboard) to toggle through the BIOS Setup menu items.
  • Page 32: Using Keys

    Key Legend — The bottom right corner of the screen. These lines display the keys that move the cursor and select parameters. Options that are grayed out are not available for the current selection. Using Keys The following table lists the BIOS Setup keys and their functions. BIOS Setup Key Functions Function Moves the cursor between the displayed parameters.
  • Page 33: Standard Cmos Setup

    Disabled Enabled Protection Date — Sets the NEC Versa’s calendar month, day, and year. These settings remain in memory even after you turn off system power. To set the date, use the or arrow keys to move from field to field. Use the PgUp key to change the numbers within each field.
  • Page 34: Advanced Cmos Setup

    Advanced CMOS Setup Use the Advanced CMOS Setup to set the following functions. Advanced CMOS Setup Parameter Default Setting Alternate Setting(s) Video Out Type NTSC LCD Panel View Expansion PS/2 Port Warm Swap Enabled Disabled Internal Mouse Enabled Disabled, Auto Video Out Type —...
  • Page 35: System Security Setup

    System Security Setup Use the System Security Setup to protect the system from unauthorized access. System Security Setup Parameter Default Setting Alternate Setting(s) Security Mode Password SmartCard, FingerPrint Assign Supervisor Password Press Enter Assign User Password Press Enter Boot Password Required Resume Password Required Assign Supervisor...
  • Page 36: Password Protection

    Internal HDD Password — Enables or disables the HDD password. Password Protection The NEC Versa supports a password for system security on several levels. Keep in mind that you must set the supervisor password before the BIOS Setup utility allows you to set a user password.
  • Page 37: Fingerprint Protection

    Hard disk drive (HDD) password protection restricts access to the drive, if the drive is removed from the NEC Versa and installed in another system. You are not required to enter your hard disk drive passwords while the drive remains in the current system.
  • Page 38: Using Hard Disk Drive Password Protection

    If the hard drive is installed in another NEC Versa system with hard disk drive security enabled, the password must be entered to allow access to the hard drive. If this NEC Versa system does not support hard disk drive security, you cannot access the data on the hard drive.
  • Page 39 Power Management Using AC Power — Specifies whether to enable power management features when AC power is in use. When AC power is connected to the NEC Versa system, power management is usually disabled. If you enable this parameter, the system automatically activates the power management profile you set, even when AC power is used.
  • Page 40 Custom Timeout Options Option Definition CPU Speed Control Sets CPU performance at one of four levels. Hard Disk Timeout Sets the time delay before the hard disk powers down. Video Timeout Sets whether to timeout the video or not. Peripheral Timeout Sets whether to timeout the peripheral or not.
  • Page 41: Boot Device Setup

    Quick Boot — Specifies whether or not the system performs all tests during system boot. Silent Boot — Specifies whether or not to display the NEC logo during the system boot. Boot Display Device — Specifies the display device(s) for system boot messages.
  • Page 42: Peripheral Setup

    Once refreshed, the battery is conditioned to recharge to its full capacity. To recharge the battery, connect the NEC Versa to AC power. This process may take up to four hours to complete.
  • Page 43: Updating The Bios

    Support at (800) 632-4525, Fax (801) 579-1552, or access the NEC Computers web site (www.neccomp.com) to obtain a copy of the BIOS update. Note If you are outside the U.S. or Canada, please contact a local NEC Computers office or dealer in your country. System Configuration and Setup 2-21...
  • Page 44: Preparing The Bios Update Diskette

    Remove the diskette and power down by pressing and holding in the power button for four seconds to ensure proper shutdown. The next time you power on the computer, the system will have the latest NEC Versa VXi computer BIOS revision level.
  • Page 45: Managing System Power

    Managing System Power In the Windows 98/2000 environment, the NEC Versa manages its power resources using the Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) while the system is powered on using AC or battery (DC) power. ACPI enables the operating system to manage the power given to each attached device and to turn off a device when not in use.
  • Page 46: Windows 98 Alarms

    Power Schemes Parameter Default Setting Setting Selections Turn off monitor After 15 Minutes 1, 2, 3, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, (Plugged In) 30, 45 minutes; 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 hours; Never Turn off monitor After 2 Minutes 1, 2, 3, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, (Running on batteries) 30, 45 minutes;...
  • Page 47: Windows 98 Advanced

    Windows 98 Advanced The Advanced window allows you to select behaviors for the taskbar icon, standby password, LCD panel, when closed, and the Power button. Advanced Parameter Default Setting Setting Selections Always show icon on checked unchecked taskbar Prompt for password unchecked checked when computer goes off...
  • Page 48: Windows 2000 Power Schemes

    Windows 2000 Power Schemes Use the Power Schemes options to define the appropriate Power scheme for the system, and to set timeouts for standby, LCD panel, and hard disk. Define parameters for the system when running under AC (plugged in) or DC (running on batteries) power. Power Schemes Parameter Default Setting...
  • Page 49: Windows 2000 Power Meter

    Alarms Parameter Default Setting Setting Selections Critical battery alarm 0-100% Alarm Action Notification Display message Sound alarm Alarm Action Power level Standby Power Off, Hibernate, None Run a program none When the alarm occurs, run this program. Low battery alarm — Allows you to define a low battery alarm percentage, notification, and system action.
  • Page 50: Windows 2000 Hibernate

    Windows 2000 Hibernate Use the Hibernate window to enable hibernate support, see the amount of free disk space, and the amount of disk space required to hibernate. When the system hibernates, it performs a save- to-disk or save-to-file (STF). The current working environment is saved to the hard disk. Use the Power button to resume from hibernation and the system returns to its previous state.
  • Page 51: Windows Nt Power Management States

    Must configure System Switch in BIOS as Sleep button. Automatic STF when there is only 3% power remaining in the system. NEC Utilities NECC provides several programs and routines designed to make the NEC Versa run more efficiently. The NEC utilities include:...
  • Page 52: Nec Customize Utility

    For more details about the HDPREPEZ utility, see the HDPREPEZ.TXT file in the NECUTILS/HDPREP directory. Using the HDPREPEZ Utility In Windows 98, run the HDPREPEZ utility if you increase the memory capacity in the NEC Versa beyond the factory installed base memory. Follow these steps to run the HDPREPEZ utility.
  • Page 53: Speedstep Applet

    SoftDVD help for information about using and configuring the DVD-ROM drive. NEC CD-RW CD If the NEC Versa system comes with a CD read/write drive preinstalled, it has the NEC CD-RW CD. The CD read/write drive allows the loading and starting of programs from a CD and writing information to a CD.
  • Page 54: Setting A Personal Code

    Installing the NEC Info Center To install the NEC Info Center simply follow the instructions, presented earlier in this chapter, for launching the Application & Driver CD and installing the software. For the most current version of the NEC Versa VXi User’s Guide, check NEC web site at http://www.neccomp.com/.
  • Page 55: Partition Magic

    Visually create, format, shrink, expand, and move hard disk partitions in minutes. The NEC Versa ships with an internal hard disk drive consisting of a single FAT 32 partition, drive C:. Use Partition Magic if you want to create multiple partitions and convert the hard disk drive to FAT 16 partitions.
  • Page 56: Launching The Application And Driver Cd With Windows 2000/Nt

    The Application and Driver CD dialog box appears. Note If the NEC Customize icon is not available, double click My Computer on the desktop and then click the CD icon. The Application and Driver CD dialog box appears. Application and Driver CD Dialog Box The Application and Driver CD dialog box consists of the following components.
  • Page 57: Guidelines For Using The Product Recovery Cd

    The Product Recovery CD utility provides a number of choices. Move the cursor over each selection on the NEC Product Recovery utility screen to display a description of the selection in the window on the right side of the screen.
  • Page 58 Only use the Full Disk Drive restore option if the preinstalled software is unusable. Use the Product Recovery utility to perform a Full Disk Drive restore as follows: Check the Product Recovery CD title and make sure that it is the correct CD for the NEC Versa computer and operating system.
  • Page 59: Partition Only Restore

    Use the Product Recovery utility to perform a Partition Only restore as follows: Check the Product Recovery CD title and make sure that it is the correct CD for the NEC Versa computer and operating system.
  • Page 60: Dip Switch Settings

    DIP switches S3 and S4 are for factory use only. Switch 1, Password override — The default setting is “OFF.” If you forget your password and cannot access the data on your NEC Versa, change the setting to “ON” and your current password is erased.
  • Page 61: Disassembly And Reassembly

    Disassembly and Reassembly Required Tools and Equipment Disassembly Reassembly...
  • Page 62: Parts List

    Required Tools and Equipment All NEC Versa VXi disassembly/reassembly procedures are performed using the following tools: tweezers small flat-blade screwdriver small Phillips screwdrivers (# 1 and # 0) needle-nose pliers. Disassembly This chapter contains step-by-step disassembly procedures for the system. Reassembly is the reverse of disassembly.
  • Page 63: Battery Pack

    Remove the battery pack from the NEC Versa system as follows. Note Only use batteries that were specifically designed for use in the NEC Versa computer. Installing another manufacturer’s battery, or using a combination of very old and new batteries can deteriorate battery and equipment performance.
  • Page 64: Memory Module

    Memory Module Remove the memory module as follows. Power off the system and disconnect any peripheral devices. Turn the system over and locate the screw on the memory bay. Memory bay cover and screw A – Memory Bay Cover B – Screw Remove the screw and lift off the memory bay cover.
  • Page 65: Mini Pci Card

    Mini PCI Card Remove any installed Mini PCI board as follows. Power off the system and disconnect any peripheral devices. Turn the system over and locate the screw on the PCI LAN/modem card bay cover (see the figure in “Around the Bottom of the System” in Chapter 1 for cover location). Remove the screw and lift off the bay cover.
  • Page 66 Removing the screw A – Screw Carefully pull the hard disk drive out of the system. Removing the disk drive 3-6 Disassembly and Reassembly...
  • Page 67: Led/Button Assembly

    LED/Button Assembly Remove the LED/Button assembly as follows. Open the LCD panel and locate the LCD hinge covers. Remove the screw caps and screws on the hinge covers. Use a small (1/32 inch wide) flat blade screwdriver to carefully lift up the screw cap (it’s held in place by adhesive on the underside).
  • Page 68: Lcd Panel

    Slide the LED/button assembly slightly to the right and lift away from the system. Removing the LED/button assembly A – LED/Button Assembly LCD Panel Remove the LCD panel as follows. Remove the LED/button assembly from the system. Close the LCD panel and turn the system over. Locate and remove the two bottom screws securing the LCD panel to the system.
  • Page 69 Locate and remove the left and right hinge screws. Removing the hinge screws A – Screw Locate and remove the two screws securing the LCD panel connector to the main board. Removing the LCD panel screws A – Screws Pull the LCD panel up to unplug it from its connector (P15) on the main board. Remove the panel from the system.
  • Page 70: Keyboard And Heat Plate

    Keyboard and Heat Plate Remove the keyboard and heat plate as follows. Remove the LCD panel from the system. Partially lift the keyboard up and toward the back of the system to clear the tabs from under the top cover. Lifting the keyboard Lay the keyboard key side down over the back of the system.
  • Page 71: Top Cover

    Partially lift the heat plate. Unplug the processor fan cable from connector P5 on the main board and remove the heat plate. Release the keyboard cable from connector P5 on the I/O board by pushing the two lock tabs (one on each side) away from the connector. Remove the keyboard. Top Cover Remove the top cover as follows.
  • Page 72 Locate and remove the screw on the top that secures the top cover. Removing the top screw A – Screw Locate and remove the screw securing the LED board. Carefully remove the board from the system by lifting it up and out of its connector. Removing the LED board A –...
  • Page 73 Locate and remove the screw securing the CD control board (if installed). Carefully remove the board from the system by lifting it up and out of its connector. Removing the CD control board A – Screw B – CD Control Board Release the VersaGlide cable from connector P8 on the I/O board by pushing the two lock tabs (one on each side) on the connector away from the connector.
  • Page 74: Versaglide Assembly

    VersaGlide Assembly Remove the VersaGlide assembly as follows. Remove the LCD panel, keyboard, heat plate, and top cover from the system. Turn the top cover over and remove the three screws securing the VersaGlide. Removing the VersaGlide screws A – Screws B –...
  • Page 75: Audio Board

    Audio Board Remove the audio board as follows. Remove the LCD panel, keyboard, heat plate, and top cover from the system. Locate and remove the screw securing the audio board. Carefully unplug the audio board from connector P7 on the main board by lifting up the audio board.
  • Page 76: Dc/Dc Board

    DC/DC Board Remove the DC/DC board as follows. Remove the LCD panel, keyboard, heat plate, and top cover from the system. Lift the DC/DC board straight up to unplug it from connectors P9 and P10 on the main board. Removing the DC/DC board A –...
  • Page 77: I/O Board

    I/O Board Remove the I/O board as follows. Remove the LCD panel, keyboard, heat plate, and top cover from the system. Release the diskette drive cable from connector P6 on the I/O board by pushing the two lock tabs (one on each side) away from the connector. Unplug the CMOS battery cable from connector P1 on the I/O board.
  • Page 78: Cmos Battery

    CMOS Battery Remove the CMOS battery as follows. Remove the LCD panel, keyboard, heat plate, top cover, audio board, and I/O board from the system. Remove the CMOS battery from the front of the base assembly. It is secured with two-sided tape.
  • Page 79: Diskette Drive

    Diskette Drive Remove the diskette drive as follows. Remove the LCD panel, keyboard, heat plate, top cover, CD-ROM drive, and I/O board from the system. Locate and remove the two screws securing the diskette drive to the base assembly. Removing the diskette drive screws A –...
  • Page 80: Speakers

    Speakers Remove the two speakers as follows. Remove the LCD panel, keyboard, heat plate, top cover, audio board, and I/O board from the system. Slide each speaker up and out of the front of the base assembly. Removing the speaker A –...
  • Page 81: Main Board

    Main Board Remove the main board as follows. Remove any installed Mini PCI card option and PC card. Remove the LCD panel, keyboard, heat plate, top cover, audio board, I/O board, CD-ROM drive, diskette drive, and Kensington lock latch from the system. Locate and remove the three hex screws and one Phillips head screw that secure the main board to the base assembly.
  • Page 82: Pc Card Assembly

    Releasing the CPU A – Locking Screw PC Card Assembly Remove the PC card assembly as follows. Remove any PC cards that might be in the PC card assembly. Remove the LCD panel, keyboard, heat plate, top cover, audio board, I/O board, diskette drive, Kensington lock latch, and main board from the system.
  • Page 83: Reassembly

    Reassembly Reassembly is the reverse of the disassembly process. Use care to ensure that all cables and screws are returned to their proper positions. Disassembly and Reassembly 3-23...
  • Page 84: System Board Layout

    System Board Layout Audio Board DC/DC Board I/O Board Main Board...
  • Page 85: Audio Board Connectors

    This following figures show the system boards and connector locations. Audio Board Connectors A – Main Board Connector P3 Speaker cable connector P1 and microphone cable connector P2 are on the back of the audio board. DC/DC Board Connectors A – Main Board Connector P1 B –...
  • Page 86: I/O Board Connectors

    I/O Board Connectors A – Keyboard Cable Connector P5 D – Hard Disc Drive Connector P2 B – Main Board Connector P3 (back side) E – CMOS Battery Cable Connector P1 C – Diskette Drive Cable Connector P6 F – VersaGlide Cable Connector P8 Main Board Connectors A –...
  • Page 87: Illustrated Parts Breakdown

    Illustrated Parts Breakdown Illustrated Parts Breakdown Parts List...
  • Page 88 Illustrated Parts Breakdown The NEC Versa VXi notebook illustrated parts breakdown (IPB) is shown in the following figure. See the table “Field-Replaceable Parts List” for a list of the field-replaceable unit (FRU) parts. 5-2 Illustrated Parts Breakdown...
  • Page 89: Parts List

    Parts List The following table lists the NEC Versa VXi notebook FRU parts. Field-Replaceable Parts List Item Description LCD Unit Assembly 12.1-inch 13.3-inch 14.1-inch Keyboard Keyboard (French) Hinge Cover (right) Top Cover Sub Assembly VersaGlide Sub Assembly Audio Board Sub Assembly...
  • Page 90 Field-Replaceable Parts List Item Description 600-MHz Celeron 650-MHz Celeron 700-MHz Celeron 750-MHz Celeron 700-MHz Pentium III (w/SpeedStep) 750-MHz Pentium III (w/SpeedStep) 800-MHz Pentium III (w/SpeedStep) 850-MHz Pentium III (w/SpeedStep) 900-MHz Pentium III (w/SpeedStep) 1-GHz Pentium III (w/SpeedStep) LED/Button Assembly (CD/password controls) LED Assembly (status LEDs) Diskette Drive Cable VersaGlide Cable...
  • Page 91: Preventive Maintenance

    Preventive Maintenance Cleaning the Exterior Cleaning the Interior Protecting the Hard Disk Drive Handling the Battery Pack...
  • Page 92: Cleaning The Interior

    This section contains general preventive maintenance information for cleaning the system, LCD, and keyboard. Unplug the AC adapter and remove the battery pack before performing maintenance. Voltage is present inside the system unit and LCD even after the system is turned off.
  • Page 93: Handling The Battery Pack

    Never turn the system off when the hard drive is being accessed. Use a hard drive maintenance program like DEFRAG to eliminate fragmentation and improve the hard drive access time. Handling the Battery Pack Periodically inspect the battery terminals and the batteries for evidence of corrosion and oxide build-up.
  • Page 94: Troubleshooting

    Troubleshooting Quick Troubleshooting Helpful Questions...
  • Page 95: Quick Troubleshooting

    Quick Troubleshooting This section summarizes problems that may develop during system operation and lists suggested corrective actions. Quick Troubleshooting Problem or Symptoms Corrective Actions No power Check that the AC adapter is plugged into the power port of the notebook. Also, check that the AC adapter is plugged into a properly grounded AC power outlet.
  • Page 96 Quick Troubleshooting Problem or Symptoms Corrective Actions Diskette drive does not work Check if the diskette drive option is not installed in BIOS Setup. Check if the diskette drive cable is connected properly. Check that the diskette is not faulty. Replace the diskette drive.
  • Page 97 Quick Troubleshooting Problem or Symptoms Corrective Actions Serial device does not work Check if the serial port is set to “Auto” in BIOS Setup. Check if the serial device is connected properly. Check if the mouse driver is installed properly. Replace the serial device.
  • Page 98: Helpful Questions

    Helpful Questions Here are some helpful questions to ask when troubleshooting the notebook: Is there any external power source connected to the computer? Is the battery fully charged? Is the computer turned on and the Power LED activated? Is the LCD display switched to the external monitor? Are all cables and devices connected properly and securely? Are all needed device drivers installed properly? Is the Suspend Mode activated? Press any key or press the Power/Sleep button to power on...
  • Page 99: Getting Services And Support

    Getting Services and Support Services and Support Contact Information NEC Computers Web Site NEC Computers FTP Site Email/Fax to Support Services NEC Computers Support Services...
  • Page 100 NEC Computers Web Site If you have access to the Internet (via a LAN board or a modem), you can access the NEC Computers web site. You can do this through a commercial online service or through your Internet account.
  • Page 101: Nec Computers Technical Support Services

    Computers technical support is for U.S. and Canadian customers only; international customers should check with their sales provider.) Direct assistance is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call the NEC Computers Technical Support Center, toll free, at (U.S.
  • Page 102: Specifications

    Specifications System Components Memory Map Interrupt Controllers...
  • Page 103 System Components The following system component specifications are standard except where noted. System Processor Depending on the model: Intel Celeron — 600 MHz, 650 MHz, 700 MHz, and 750 MHz Intel Pentium III — 700 MHz, 750 MHz, 800 MHz, 850 MHz, 900 MHz, and 1 GHz (all with SpeedStep) Random Access Memory (RAM) Standard Main Memory —...
  • Page 104 Main Battery Types: Nickel-Metal-Hydride, (NiMH), eight cell – Output Voltage – 9.6v – Capacity – 3,800 mAh Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion), eight cell – Output Voltage – 14.4v – Capacity – 3,600 mAh Recharging Time Nickel-Metal-Hydride, (NiMH): Approximately 3 hours when system is not in use; approximately 3.5 hours when system is in use.
  • Page 105 Diskette Drive Standard 1.44 MB Size — 3.5 inch Capacity — 1.44 MB (formatted), 2 MB (unformatted) Hard Disk Drive Internal, 2.5 inch, IDE Capacity (depending on the model) 6.0-GB, 10-GB, 12-GB, 20-GB, or larger hard disk drive CD-ROM Drive Thin-type CD-ROM Pack Access Time —...
  • Page 106 CD Read/Write Drive Speed Read, max 20X CDRW, max 14X Read Transfer Rate 150 KB/s, normal speed 3000 KB/s, 20X, maximum speed 16.6 MB/s, Mode 4 PIO 16.6 MB/s, Multi Mode 2 DMA mode (not Ultra DMA) Write Transfer Rate 150 KB/s, normal speed 300 KB/s, 2X speed 600 KB/s, 4X speed...
  • Page 107 Sustained data transfer rate DVD, 3,357 – 8,112 kbytes/sec (2.5 – 6X CAV) DVD-Video, 2,163 – 3,245 kbytes/sec (1.6X – 2.4X PCAV) CD, 1,552 – 3,600 kbytes/sec, mode 1 (10.3X – 24X CAV) 1,769 – 4,104 kbytes/sec, mode 2 (10.3X – 24X CAV) Access time (typical) Average random access, 120 ms (DVD), 110 ms (CD) Average random seek, 115 ms (DVD), 105 ms (CD)
  • Page 108 10/100 Ethernet Full duplex support Wake-on-LAN support Auto-sensing Low power features AC Adapter Input Voltage 100 to 240 volts (V) AC, 50 watt (max.) Output Voltage 19 volts DC, 2.6A Dimensions System Width — 12 in. (307 mm) Depth — 9.9 in. (252 mm) Height —...
  • Page 109: Interrupt Controllers

    Memory Map The system supports system and video shadowing, both controlled through complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS). The system supports BIOS as a cacheable area with write protection. The following table shows the system’s memory map. System Memory Map Memory Space Size Function 00000000h-0009FFFFh...
  • Page 110: Glossary

    Glossary AC Adapter A device that connects an NEC Versa portable computer and an AC wall outlet to provide AC power for running the system or recharging the battery. applications programs Software designed to perform specific functions, like solving business or mathematical problems.
  • Page 111 Electronic timer used to synchronize computer operations. CMOS Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor. A chip that contains nonvolatile memory in the NEC Versa. CMOS is backed up by an internal lithium battery that preserves clock/calendar data and system configuration parameters stored in CMOS. cold boot Process of starting up the computer by turning on the power.
  • Page 112 (KB) 1024 bytes. Local Area Network. Liquid Crystal Display. An LCD consists of a thin sandwich of two glass plates with sealed edges, containing nematic liquid-crystal material that forms the screen image. The NEC Versa displays are LCD type. Glossary 3...
  • Page 113 A communications standard that offers smaller size, greater design flexibility, and reduced cost for mobile platforms. mode A method of operation; for example, the NEC Versa operates in either normal or power- saving modes. modem MOdulator-DEModulator. A device that links computers over a telephone line.
  • Page 114 page A type of message transmission in which a message is sent or received via modem to a paging device from a computer (with paging communications software) or telephone. parallel interface Interface that communicates eight bits at a time. parallel printer A printer with a parallel interface.
  • Page 115 The main printed circuit board inside the system unit into which other boards and major chip components, such as the system microprocessor, are connected. Thin Film Transistor. A type of NEC Versa LCD color screen that supports 256 colors and provides exceptional screen display.
  • Page 116 VersaGlide A small, touch-sensitive pad used as a pointing device on your NEC Versa notebook computer. With the VersaGlide, you can move your finger along the pad to move the cursor or simulate a mouse click by tapping the pad.
  • Page 117: Index

    Index obtaining update, 2-21 performing the update, 2-22 AC adapter preparing to update, 2-22 connecting, 2-2 setup, 2-8 specifications, 9-7 update, 2-21 using, 2-2 BIOS Setup ACPI, 2-16, 2-23, 2-25 Advanced CMOS Setup, 2-9, 2-12 advanced power settings, 2-25, 2-27 Main Menu, 2-9 alarms, 2-24, 2-26 other options, 2-20...
  • Page 118 Internal HDD password, 2-14 email/fax, 8-3 IPB, 5-2 FTP site, 8-3 IR port, 2-20 Technical support services, 8-3 web site, 8-2 NEC Customize utility, 2-30 Kensington lock latch using, 2-30 removing, 3-20 NEC Info Center, 2-32 Keyboard, 1-6 installing, 2-32...
  • Page 119 Partition Magic, 2-33 hard disk drive, 3-5 Partition restore, 2-37 I/O board, 3-17 Parts list, 5-3 Kensington lock latch, 3-20 Password keyboard and heat plate, 3-10 establishing, 2-14 LCD panel, 3-8 hard disk drive, 2-14 LED board, 3-12 protection, 2-14 LED/Button assembly, 3-7 Standby, 2-25, 2-27 main board, 3-21...
  • Page 120 User password, 2-13, 2-14 Using the AC adapter, 2-2 Utilities personal code setting, 2-31 VersaGlide, 1-8 removing, 3-14 Video out type, 2-12 Web site NEC Computers, 8-2 Weight specifications, 9-7 Windows 2000 power options, 2-25 keys, 1-8 power management, 2-23 Index-4...
  • Page 121: Battery Replacement

    Battery Replacement A lithium battery in some computers maintains system configuration information. In the event that the battery fails to maintain system configuration information, NEC Computers recommends that you replace the battery. For battery replacement information, call your NEC Computers dealer.
  • Page 122 This product is in conformity with the protection requirements of EC Council Directive 89/336/EEC on the approximation of laws of the Member States relating to electro-magnetic compatibility. This product satisfied the Class B limits of EN 55022. NEC Computers Inc. 15 Business Park Way Sacramento, CA 95828...
  • Page 123 819-200733-000 NEC Computers Inc. 15 Business Park Way 04/2001 Sacramento, CA 95828 www.neccomp.com...

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