AOpen 2681 User Manual
AOpen 2681 User Manual

AOpen 2681 User Manual

Notebook computer
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Notebook Computer

User's guide

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Summary of Contents for AOpen 2681

  • Page 1: Notebook Computer

    Notebook Computer User’s guide...
  • Page 2 Copyright © 2005 All Rights Reserved Notebook Computer User’s guide Original Issue: January 2005 Changes may be made periodically to the information in this publication without obligation to notify any person of such revision or changes. Such changes will be incorporated in new editions of this manual or supplementary documents and publications.
  • Page 3: Connecting The Computer

    Preface This notebook computer incorporates such features as CardBus, internal pointing device, IEEE 1394, and Universal Serial Bus 2.0 in a portable package. This manual should answer most of the questions you have about the day-to-day operation of your notebook computer. You should also take advantage of the online help files that are available with almost all of the programs shipped with your computer.
  • Page 4 Connect one end of the AC adapter to the DC-in port on the computer’s rear panel and the other end to a properly grounded power outlet.
  • Page 5 Slide the display cover latch to the right (1) and open the display to a comfortable viewing angle (2).
  • Page 6: Care And Maintenance

    Press and release the power switch to turn on the power. The POST (power- on self-test) routine executes and Windows begins loading. Note: To turn off the power, use the Windows Turn Off command to shut down the computer. If you are unable to shut down your computer normally, press and hold the power switch for more than four seconds to turn off the computer.
  • Page 7: Taking Care Of Your Ac Adapter

    (122ºF). • Do not subject the computer to magnetic fields. • Do not expose the computer to rain or moisture. • Do not spill water or any liquid on the computer. • Do not subject the computer to heavy shock and vibration. •...
  • Page 8 viii Contact your dealer or see your service technician if any of the following occurs: • The computer has been dropped or the body has been damaged. • Liquid has been spilled into the product. • The computer does not operate normally.
  • Page 9: Table Of Contents

    Preface Connecting the computer Care and maintenance Contents 1 Getting familiar with your computer A tour of your computer Top view Left view Right view Rear view Bottom view Features Display Indicators Keyboard Special keys Keyboard ergonomics Touchpad Launch keys Storage Hard disk Optical drive...
  • Page 10 Contents Battery-low warning Power management Advanced Configuration and Power Interface 3 Peripherals and options External monitor Using simultaneous display S-video Printer PC Card PC Card slot USB devices IEEE 1394 devices Miscellaneous options Key component upgrades Memory upgrade 4 Moving with your computer Disconnecting from the desktop Moving around Preparing the computer...
  • Page 11 6 Troubleshooting Frequently-asked questions Error messages A Specifications B Notices Index...
  • Page 12 Contents...
  • Page 13: Getting Familiar With Your Computer

    1 Getting familiar with your computer...
  • Page 14 This notebook computer combines high-performance, versatility, power management features and multimedia capabilities with a unique style and ergonomic design. Work with unmatched productivity and reliability with your new power computing partner. This chapter gives an in-depth "tour" of the computer’s many features.
  • Page 15: A Tour Of Your Computer

    A tour of your computer Let us show you around your new notebook computer. Top view...
  • Page 16 1 Getting familiar with your computer Item Description Power button Turns on the computer power. Touchpad Touch-sensitive pointing device which functions like a computer mouse. 4-way scroll key This button mimics your cursor pressing on the vertical and horizontal scroll bars of Windows application.
  • Page 17: Left View

    Left view Item Description PC Card slots Accepts two Type II/I CardBus PC Card. PC Card eject Ejects the PC Card from its slot. buttons Optical drive activity Lights up when the optical drive is active. indicator IEEE 1394 port Connects to an IEEE 1394-compatible device (e.g., digital video camera).
  • Page 18: Right View

    1 Getting familiar with your computer Right view Item Description Speaker Outputs sound. Security keylock Connects to a Kensington-compatible computer security lock. Rear view Item Description DC-in jack Connects to the AC adapter. Parallel port Connects to a parallel device (e.g., parallel printer). S-video out port Connects to a television or display device with S- video input.
  • Page 19 Item Description External monitor port Connects to a display monitor (up to 2048x1536 resolution). USB (2.0) ports Connect to USB devices (e.g., USB mouse). (four) Network jack Connects to an Ethernet-based network. Modem jack Connects a phone line (only for models with an internal fax/data modem).
  • Page 20: Bottom View

    1 Getting familiar with your computer Bottom view Item Description Memory Houses the computer’s main memory. compartment cover Battery pack Supplies power to the computer. Battery release latch Unlatches the battery to remove the battery pack. Wireless LAN Houses the computer’s optional 802.11b/802.11g module compartment wireless LANmodule.
  • Page 21: Features

    Features This computer was designed with the user in mind. Here are just a few of its many features: Performance • Mobile AMD Sempron™ processor up to 3000+ maximum • 15” TFT XGA LCD • VIA built-in graphic chipset (VIA chipset) •...
  • Page 22 1 Getting familiar with your computer • PC Card slots...
  • Page 23: Display

    Display The graphics display offers excellent viewing, display quality and desktop- performance graphics. The computer supports Thin-Film Transistor (TFT) liquid crystal display (LCD) displaying vibrant colors at high resolution. Simultaneous display The computer’s crisp display and multimedia capabilities are great for viewing movies or giving presentations.
  • Page 24: Indicators

    1 Getting familiar with your computer Indicators The computer has seven easy-to-read status indicators (LEDs) under the display screen. Function Description Wireless Lights when the wireless LAN (optional) capabilities communication are enabled. Power Lights when the computer is on.
  • Page 25 Function Description Standby Blinks when computer enters Hibernation mode. Media activity Lights when the hard disk, or CD or DVD drive is active. Battery charge Lights when the battery is being charged. Caps lock Lights when Caps Lock is activated. Num lock Lights when Numeric Lock is activated.
  • Page 26: Keyboard

    1 Getting familiar with your computer Keyboard The keyboard has full-sized keys with an embedded keypad, separate cursor keys, two Windows keys and twelve function keys. Special keys Lock keys The keyboard has three lock keys which you can toggle on and off. Lock Key Description Caps Lock...
  • Page 27: Embedded Numeric Keypad

    Embedded numeric keypad The embedded numeric keypad functions like a desktop numeric keypad. It is indicated by small characters located on the upper right corner of the keycaps. To simplify the keyboard legend, cursor-control key symbols are not printed on the keys.
  • Page 28: Windows Keys

    1 Getting familiar with your computer Windows keys The keyboard has two keys that perform Windows-specific functions. Description Windows logo key Start button. Combinations with this key perform special functions. Below are a few examples: + Tab (Activates next Taskbar button) + E (Explores My Computer) + F (Finds Document) + M (Minimizes All)
  • Page 29 Hotkeys The computer employs hotkeys or key combinations to access most of the computer’s controls like screen contrast and brightness, volume output and the BIOS setup utility. HotKey Function Description Fn-F1 Hotkey help Displays a list of the hotkeys and their functions. Fn-F2 Sleep Puts the computer in Sleep mode, which can be...
  • Page 30 1 Getting familiar with your computer HotKey Function Description Fn-PgDn Functions as the “End” key. Fn- → Brightness up Increases the screen brightness. Fn- ← Brightness down Decreases the screen brightness. Fn- ↑ Volume up Increases the volume. Fn- ↓ Volume down Decreases the volume.
  • Page 31: Keyboard Ergonomics

    Keyboard ergonomics Located below the keyboard, the wide and curved palm rest is ergonomically designed to provide you with a very comfortable place to rest your hands while you type.
  • Page 32: Touchpad

    1 Getting familiar with your computer Touchpad The built-in touchpad is a pointing device that senses movement on its surface. This means the cursor responds as you move your finger on the surface of the touchpad. The central location on the palm rest provides optimum comfort and support.
  • Page 33: Touchpad Basics

    Touchpad basics The following teaches you how to use the touchpad: • Move your finger across the touchpad to move the cursor. • Press the left (1) and right (3) buttons located on the edge of the touchpad to do selection and execution functions. These two buttons are similar to the left and right buttons on a mouse.
  • Page 34 1 Getting familiar with your computer Right 4-way scroll Function Left button button Drag Click and hold, Tap twice (at the same then use finger speed as double- to drag the clicking a mouse cursor on the button) then hold touchpad finger to the touchpad on the second tap and...
  • Page 35: Launch Keys

    Launch keys Located at the top of the keyboard are launch keys used to launch frequently used applications. Item Description Email The mail button is used to launch the email application. Internet browser By default, is used to launch your internet browser. TV out Automatically switches the display to output on a television that is connected to the s-video port.
  • Page 36 1 Getting familiar with your computer Item Description Resolution Launches the resolution setting. Wireless communication This button is used to enable or disable the wireless LAN (optional) function.
  • Page 37: Storage

    Storage This computer supplies you with the following media storage: • One high-capacity 2.5-inch hard disk • Optical drive Hard disk The high-capacity hard disk is the answer to your storage needs. This is where your programs and data are stored. Optical drive A high-speed optical drive, DVD/CD-RW combo, DVD-dual, or DVD-Super Multi gives you portable multimedia.
  • Page 38: Playing Dvd Movies

    1 Getting familiar with your computer Note: When power is off, you can eject the optical drive tray using the emergency eject hole. See page 74 for details. Playing DVD movies To play DVD movies in your computer, just insert the DVD disc into the drive and the DVD movie will automatically play after a few seconds.
  • Page 39: Connectivity Options

    Connectivity options The computer has built-in features for connecting to a network and communicating with other computers. Ethernet and LAN The built-in network feature allows you to connect your computer to an Ethernet- based (10/100 Mbps) network. To use the network feature, connect an Ethernet cable from the network jack on the rear of the computer to a network jack or hub on your network.
  • Page 40: Fast Infrared

    1 Getting familiar with your computer To use the fax/data modem port, connect a phone cable from the modem port to a telephone jack. Fast infrared The computer’s fast infrared (FIR) port allows you to do wireless data transfer with other IR-aware computers and peripherals such as PDAs (personal digital assistants), mobile phones, and infrared printers.
  • Page 41: Optional Wireless Communication

    Optional wireless communication This computer can be equipped with an optional wireless communication feature. This feature allows you to communicate with other wireless communication devices. You can manually turn off your wireless communication feature.
  • Page 42: Audio

    1 Getting familiar with your computer Audio Your computer includes 16-bit high-fidelity stereo audio. Two speakers on both sides of the computer ensure that when the LCD panel is closed, the audio is not muffled. There are also audio ports on the rear panel of the computer. See “Rear view” on page 6 for more informations.
  • Page 43: Adjusting The Volume

    Adjusting the volume There are many ways to adjust the volume of the computer. You use the taskbar to control the volume. You can also use the volume hotkeys.
  • Page 44: Securing Your Computer

    1 Getting familiar with your computer Securing your computer Security features include hardware and software locks — a security notch and password. Security notch A security notch located on the right panel of the computer lets you connect a Kensington-compatible computer security lock. Wrap a computer security lock cable around an immovable object such as a table or locked drawer handle.
  • Page 45 Setting a password You can set the password using the BIOS Utility. See “Setting a password” on page 67.
  • Page 46 1 Getting familiar with your computer...
  • Page 47: Operating On Battery Power

    2 Operating on battery power...
  • Page 48 The computer operates on AC or battery power. This chapter contains the information you need to know to operate the computer on battery power. It also includes information on how your computer manages and saves power.
  • Page 49: Battery Pack

    Battery pack The computer uses a battery pack that gives you long use between charges. Battery pack characteristics The battery pack has the following characteristics: • Employs current battery technology standards The computer uses a Lithium-Ion battery pack which does not have the memory effect problem of Nickel Cadmium (NiCd) batteries.
  • Page 50: Installing And Removing The Battery Pack

    2 Operating on battery power Installing and removing the battery pack Important! Before removing the battery pack, make sure that you have an AC adapter connected to the computer; otherwise, turn off the computer. To install a battery pack: Insert the battery and align the arrows (1); slide the battery (2) until it clicks into place.
  • Page 51: Charging The Battery

    To remove the battery pack: Slide and hold the lock/unlock latch into the unlock position (1); slide the battery pack as shown in the illustration and lift the battery pack to remove it (2, 3). Charging the battery To charge the battery, install the battery pack and plug the AC adapter into the computer and an electrical outlet.
  • Page 52: Checking The Battery Level

    2 Operating on battery power Note: We suggest that you charge the battery pack before retiring for the day, letting it charge overnight before traveling. This ensures a fully charged battery for use the next day. Checking the battery level The Windows battery meter indicates the present battery level.
  • Page 53 Warning! Connect the AC adapter to the computer as soon as possible. Data is lost when computer power is cut off during Standby mode. The following table shows the recommended course of action to take when you encounter a battery-low condition. Situation Recommended Action AC adapter and power...
  • Page 54: Power Management

    2 Operating on battery power Power management This computer has a built-in power management unit that monitors system activity. System activity refers to any activity involving one or more of the following devices: keyboard, mouse, floppy drive, hard disk, peripherals connected to the serial and parallel ports, and video memory.
  • Page 55: Peripherals And Options

    3 Peripherals and options...
  • Page 56 Your computer offers excellent expansion capabilities with its built-in ports, connectors and bays. This chapter describes how to connect peripherals and hardware options that help you use your computer with ease. When connecting peripherals, read the manual included with the peripheral for operating instructions.
  • Page 57: External Monitor

    External monitor You can connect an external monitor to the external monitor port. Read the monitor manual for additional instructions. Note: If an external monitor is not connected, closing the display cover puts the computer into Standby mode. Using simultaneous display Your computer takes advantage of Windows multi-display capability, allowing you to use your computer for presentation purposes.
  • Page 58: S-Video

    3 Peripherals and options S-video The S-video port allows you to display the output to a television or a display device that supports S-video input. This is useful if you want to do some presentations or watch movies on a bigger screen.
  • Page 59: Printer

    Printer You can connect a printer to the parallel port. You can also connect a USB printer to the USB port. See your printer manual for operating instructions.
  • Page 60: Pc Card

    3 Peripherals and options PC Card The computer has built-in CardBus PC Card slots that can accommodate two Type II/I PC Card. Please consult your dealer for PC Card options available that you can purchase for your computer. PC Card slot The CardBus PC Card slots found on the left panel of the computer accepts credit- card-sized cards that enhance the usability and expandability of the computer.
  • Page 61 Ejecting a card Before ejecting a PC Card: • Exit the application using the card. • Left-click on the Safely Remove Hardware icon on the taskbar and stop the card operation. Press the slot eject button once to pop it out (1); then press it again (1) to eject the PC Card (2).
  • Page 62: Usb Devices

    3 Peripherals and options USB devices The computer has four USB (Universal Serial Bus) 2.0 ports located on the rear panel, that allow you to connect peripherals without occupying too many resources. USB 2.0 is the next-generation USB standard that offers faster transfer rates and is, at the same time, backward compatible with USB 1.1.
  • Page 63: Ieee 1394 Devices

    IEEE 1394 devices The computer's fast IEEE 1394 ports allow you to connect IEEE 1394 supported devices like a digital video camera or optical drive. See your peripheral's documentation for details. Before disconnecting any IEEE 1394 device, make sure the device is not being used;...
  • Page 64: Miscellaneous Options

    3 Peripherals and options Miscellaneous options AC adapter The compact AC adapter supplies power to your computer. You can order a spare AC adapter so you do not need to carry it from the office to your home or destination. Additional Li-Ion battery pack It is good practice to have a spare battery around, especially when you travel.
  • Page 65: Key Component Upgrades

    Key component upgrades Your computer delivers superior power and performance. However, some users and the applications they use may demand more. This computer allows you to upgrade key components when you need increased performance. Note: Contact your authorized dealer if you decide to perform a key component upgrade.
  • Page 66 3 Peripherals and options Insert a memory module at an angle firmly into a memory socket (1); then gently press down until the memory module locks and clicks into place (2). Replace the cover and secure it with the screws. The computer automatically detects and reconfigures the total memory size.
  • Page 67: Moving With Your Computer

    4 Moving with your computer...
  • Page 68 This chapter gives you tips and hints on things to consider when moving around or traveling with your computer.
  • Page 69: Disconnecting From The Desktop

    Disconnecting from the desktop Follow these steps to disconnect your computer from external accessories: Save your work in progress. Shut down the operating system. Turn off the computer. Disconnect the cord from the AC adapter. Disconnect the keyboard, pointing device, printer, external monitor, and other external devices.
  • Page 70: Moving Around

    4 Moving with your computer Moving around when you are just moving within short distances, for example, from your office desk to a meeting room Preparing the computer Before moving the computer, close and latch the display cover to place it in Standby mode.
  • Page 71: Taking The Computer Home

    Taking the computer home when you are moving from your office to your home or vice versa Preparing the computer After disconnecting the computer from your desktop, follow these steps to prepare the computer for the trip home: Remove all media from the drives. Failure to remove the media can damage the drive head.
  • Page 72: Setting Up A Home Office

    4 Moving with your computer Setting up a home office If you frequently work on your computer at home, it may be worthwhile to purchase a second AC adapter for use at home. With a second AC adapter, you can avoid transporting the extra weight to and from home. If you use your computer at home for significant periods of time, you might also want to add an external keyboard, monitor, or mouse.
  • Page 73: Traveling With The Computer

    Traveling with the computer when you are moving within a larger distance, for instance, from your office building to a client’s office building or traveling locally Preparing the computer Prepare the computer as if you were taking it home. Be sure the battery in the computer is charged.
  • Page 74: Traveling Internationally With The Computer

    4 Moving with your computer Traveling internationally with the computer when you are moving from country to country Preparing the computer Prepare the computer as you would normally prepare it for traveling. What to bring with you Bring the following items with you. •...
  • Page 75: Software

    5 Software...
  • Page 76 This chapter discusses the important system utilities bundled with your computer.
  • Page 77: Bios Utility

    BIOS Utility The BIOS Utility is a hardware configuration program built into your computer’s BIOS (basic input/output system). Your computer is already properly configured and optimized, and you do not need to run this utility. However, if you encounter configuration problems, you may need to run it.
  • Page 78: Security

    5 Software Note: You can change the value of a parameter if it is enclosed in square brackets. Navigation keys for a particular menu are shown on the bottom of the screen. When you select an item in the BIOS Utility, the function description will appear at the right side of the screen.
  • Page 79: Setting A Password

    Parameter Description Supervisor Password Display the status of the Supervisor Password: Set or Clear. Set User Password When set, this password protects the computer from unauthorized entry during boot-up or resume from Hibernation mode. Press Enter to set this password. Setup Supervisor When set, this password protects the BIOS Utility from Password...
  • Page 80: Changing A Password

    5 Software Important: Be very careful when typing your password because the characters do not appear on the screen. Retype the password to verify your first entry and press Enter. After setting the password, the computer automatically sets the chosen password parameter to Present and a dialog box appears confirming the changes.
  • Page 81: Exit

    Exit To exit the BIOS Utility, go the Exit screen and choose an item and press Enter. Press Enter again to confirm the selection.
  • Page 82 5 Software...
  • Page 83: Troubleshooting

    6 Troubleshooting...
  • Page 84 This chapter instructs you on how to deal with common system problems. Read it before calling a technician if a problem occurs. Solutions to more serious problems require opening up the computer. Do not attempt to open and service the computer by yourself.
  • Page 85: Frequently-Asked Questions

    Frequently-asked questions This is a list of possible situations that may arise during the use of your computer, and it gives easy answers and solutions to these questions. I press the power switch, but the computer does not start or boot-up. Look at the Power indicator: •...
  • Page 86 6 Troubleshooting • The volume level may be too low. Adjust the level using the volume hotkeys. In Windows, look at the volume control icon on the taskbar. Click on the icon and adjust the level. If headphones, earphones or external speakers are connected to the line-out port on the computer’s rear panel, the internal speakers automatically turn off.
  • Page 87 parallel port and the corresponding port on the printer. I want to set up my location to use the internal modem. To properly use your communications software (e.g., HyperTerminal), you need to set up your location: Open the Windows Control Panel and double-click on the Phone and Modems Option.
  • Page 88: Error Messages

    6 Troubleshooting Error messages The following is a list of the messages that the BIOS can display. Most of them occur during POST. Some of them display information about a hardware device, e.g., the amount of memory installed. Others may indicate a problem with a device, such as the way it has been configured.
  • Page 89 Error Messages Corrective Action 0250 System battery is The CMOS clock battery indicator shows the battery is dead - Replace and run dead. Replace the battery and run Setup to reconfigure the SETUP system. 0251 System CMOS System CMOS has been corrupted or modified checksum bad - Default incorrectly, perhaps by an application program that configuration used...
  • Page 90 6 Troubleshooting Error Messages Corrective Action 02D0 System cache error - RAM cache failed and BIOS disabled the cache. On older Cache disabled boards, check the cache jumpers. You may have to replace the cache. See your dealer. A disabled cache slows system performance considerably.
  • Page 91 Error Messages Corrective Action Parity Check 1 nnnn* Parity error found in the system bus. BIOS attempts to locate the address and display it on the screen. If it cannot locate the address, it displays nnnn. Parity is a method for checking errors in binary data.
  • Page 92 6 Troubleshooting...
  • Page 93: A Specifications

    A Specifications...
  • Page 94 This appendix lists the general specifications of your computer.
  • Page 95: Display And Video

    Microprocessor • Mobile AMD Sempron™ processor up to 3000+ maximum Memory • Memory upgradeable to 1 GB with two PC 2700 (333MHz DDR) soDIMM slots Data storage • One high-capacity, Enhanced-IDE hard disk • CD-ROM, DVD or DVD/CD-RW combo drive Display and video •...
  • Page 96: Weight And Dimensions

    A Specifications • Four USB ports (USB 2.0) • One IEEE 1394 (4-pin) port • One S-video output port • One parallel port • One FIR port • Optional wireless LAN Weight and dimensions • 3.60 kg (7.9 lbs) • 326 x 290 x 36.8 mm~38.6 mm Environment •...
  • Page 97: B Notices

    B Notices...
  • Page 98 This appendix lists the general notices of your computer.
  • Page 99: Fcc Notice

    FCC notice This device has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation.
  • Page 100: Modem Notices

    B Notices Notice: Canadian users This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference- Causing Equipment Regulations. Remarque à l’intention des utilisateurs canadiens Cet appareil numérique de la classe B respected toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le matériel brouilleur du Canada. Modem notices This equipment complies with Part 68 of the FCC Rules.
  • Page 101 Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth for cleaning. Do not use this product near water. Do not place this product on an unstable cart, stand, or table. The product may fall, causing serious damage to the product.
  • Page 102: Laser Compliance Statement

    B Notices If the product exhibits a distinct change in performance, indicating a need for service. 13. Replace the battery with the same type as the product's battery we recommend. Use of another battery may present a risk of fire or explosion. Refer battery replacement to a qualified serviceman.
  • Page 103 VARNING: LASERSTRÅLNING NAR DENNA DEL ÅR ÖPPNADSTIRRA EJ IN I STRÅLEN ADVARSEL: LASERSTRÅLING NAR DEKSEL ÅPNESSTIRR IKKE INN I STRÅLEN Battery statement CAUTION Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Discard used batteries ac- cording to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Page 104: Year 2000 Compliance Statement

    B Notices Year 2000 compliance statement This notebook computer carries the "Hardware NSTL Tested Year 2000 Compliant" logo, which certifies that this model has been tested by NSTL using the YMark2000 test, and has been found to meet NSTL's standards for Year 2000 hardware compliance.
  • Page 105: Index

    Index computer bringing to meetings 58 caring for vi cleaning vii connecting iii disconnecting 57 AC adapter features 9 caring for vii moving around 58 connecting iv on indicator 12 audio 30 security 32 troubleshooting 73– 74 setting up a home office 60 taking home 59 traveling internationally 62 battery...
  • Page 106 ejecting 49 inserting 48 keyboard 14 PC card 48 embedded numeric keypad 15 pc card slots 5 hotkeys 17 ports lock keys 14 IEEE1394 port 5 troubleshooting 74 modem jack 7 Windows keys 16 network jack 7 usb port 7 launch keys 4, 23 power LEDs 12...
  • Page 107 using 21– 22 connecting 50 travel utility international flights 62 BIOS Setup 65– 69 local trips 61 Windows keys 16...

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