Reference Guide Mobile Expansion Unith10032. · Tilt up the front of the MEU 1 and slide the release latch 2. 3. Pull the device 3 from the MultiBay. 233052-001.book Page 4 Tuesday,

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Reference GuideMobile Expansion Unit

Document Part Number: 233052-001

August 2001

This guide provides information on installing and operating the Mobile Expansion Unit with your computer, as well as tips on solving common problems.

233052-001.book Page i Tuesday, July 10, 2001 9:49 AM

© 2001 Compaq Computer Corporation

Compaq, the Compaq logo Registered in U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

All other product names mentioned herein may be trademarks of their respective companies.

Compaq shall not be liable for technical or editorial errors or omissions contained herein. The information in this document is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind and is subject to change without notice. The warranties for Compaq products are set forth in the express limited warranty statements accompanying such products. Nothing herein should be construed as constituting an additional warranty.

Reference GuideFirst Edition August 2001Document Part Number: 233052-001

233052-001.book Page ii Tuesday, July 10, 2001 9:49 AM

Reference Guide iii

Contents

1 Getting StartedIdentifying the MEU Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1–1Getting More Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1–5

2 Connecting and DisconnectingConnecting the Computer to the MEU. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–1Disconnecting the Computer from the MEU . . . . . . . . . . 2–5Connecting the AC Adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–7Connecting External Devices. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–9

3 Using the MEUTurning the System On and Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–1Operating External Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–2Inserting and Removing MultiBay Devices. . . . . . . . . . . 3–2

Inserting a MultiBay Device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–3Removing a MultiBay Device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–4Following MultiBay Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–5

Inserting and Removing Optical Discs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–6Inserting Optical Discs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–6Removing Optical Discs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–6

Using the Stereo Speakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–8

233052-001.book Page iii Tuesday, July 10, 2001 9:49 AM

iv Reference Guide

Contents

A TroubleshootingUsing the World Wide Web. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A–1Preparing to Call Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A–1Solving Common Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A–2

B SpecificationsRegulatory Agency Series Numbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B–1

Index

233052-001.book Page iv Tuesday, July 10, 2001 9:49 AM

Reference Guide 1–1

1Getting Started

Identifying the MEU Components

Front and Right Side Components

Component Description

1 Lock pin Locks the computer in place when it is docked in the MEU.

2 Release plunger Releases the computer from the MEU when the release lever is pulled.

3 Expansion connector Connects the computer to the MEU.

233052-001.book Page 1 Tuesday, July 10, 2001 9:49 AM

1–2 Reference Guide

Getting Started

4 Guide rails Align the computer for docking in the MEU.

5 USB connectors Connect USB devices.

6 AC power connector Connects an external AC adapter.

7 Release lever Releases the computer from the MEU.

Front and Right Side Components (Continued)



Getting Started


Rear and Left Side Components


1 PS/2 connectors Connects PS/2 devices.

2 Parallel connector Connects a parallel device.

3 Serial connector Connects a serial device.

4 VGA connector Connects a VGA monitor.

5 MultiBay (with device installed) Holds one MultiBay device.



Getting Started

Bottom Components


1 MultiBay release latch Releases a device from the MultiBay when the latch is pushed.

2 MultiBay device grip Provides area to grasp and remove a device from the MultiBay.


Getting Started


Getting More InformationThe Notebook Products Reference Library Guide CD, included with your computer, contains the following additional information:

� Hardware Guide, which provides comprehensive information about your computer.

� Regulatory and Safety Notices, which provides governmental agency and safety information about the use of your computer and this product.

Visit the Compaq Web site at http://www.compaq.com for product news and software updates.

ÅWARNING: Misuse of your personal computer or failure to establish a safe and comfortable workstation may result in discomfort or serious injury. Refer to the Safety & Comfort Guide on the Notebook Products Reference Library CD for information on choosing a workspace and creating a safe and comfortable work environment.



2Connecting and Disconnecting

Connecting the Computer to the MEU

ÄCAUTION: To prevent a possible loss of data, save all files, close all applications, and turn off power to the computer before connecting to the MEU.

To connect the computer to the MEU:

1. Close the computer display.

2. Align the computer between the MEU guide rails.



Connecting and Disconnecting

3. Do one of the following:

� If an optional external battery pack is not attached to the computer, push the computer toward the expansion connector until the computer is docked.




� If an optional external battery pack is attached to the computer, rotate the battery 1 down into the recess of the MEU, then push the computer 2 toward the expansion connector until the computer is docked.

ÄCAUTION: Be sure the battery is fully seated in the MEU recess so the connectors on the rear of the computer are exposed. Failure to fully expose the connectors prevents the computer from properly docking in the MEU.




4. Slide the computer display release latch 1 to the right and open the computer 2.




Disconnecting the Computer from the MEU

ÄCAUTION: To prevent a possible loss of data, save all files, close all applications, and turn off power to the computer before disconnecting from the MEU.

To disconnect the computer from the MEU:


2. Pull the release lever 1 forward until the computer disconnects from the MEU 2.




3. Do one of the following:

� If an optional external battery pack is not attached to the computer, remove the computer by sliding it forward, then tilting it up and away from the MEU expansion connector.

� If an optional external battery pack is attached to the computer, remove the computer by sliding it forward and lifting it straight up from the MEU.

ÄCAUTION: Do not rotate the battery out of the MEU recess when disconnecting from the MEU; doing so can damage the connectors and prevent you from disconnecting properly.




Connecting the AC AdapterThe AC Adapter included with your computer connects the MEU to AC power.

ÅWARNING: To reduce the risk of personal injury, electric shock, fire, or damage to your equipment:� Do not disable the power cord grounding plug. The grounding

plug is an important safety feature.� Plug the equipment into a grounded (earthed) electrical outlet

that is easily accessible at all times.� Disconnect power from the equipment by unplugging the power

cord from the electrical outlet.� Do not place anything on power cords or cables. Arrange them

so that no one can accidentally step on or trip over them.� Do not pull on a cord or cable. When unplugging a cord from the

electrical outlet, grasp the cord by the plug.

ÅWARNING: To reduce the risk of electric shock, fire, or damage to the equipment, do not attempt to operate the computer and MEU with a voltage converter kit sold for appliances. Use the AC Adapter included with your computer.




To connect the AC Adapter:

1. Connect the AC Adapter cable 1 to the AC power connector on the right side of the MEU.

2. Plug one end of the power cord 2 to the AC Adapter.

3. Plug the other end of the power cord 3 into an electrical outlet. (Power cords and outlets vary by country.)

✎ In Japan, attach the 3-to-2 prong plug adapter (included with your computer) to the power cord before connecting to an electrical outlet.




Connecting External DevicesOnce the computer is docked in the MEU, you can connect and use external devices, such as a printer, monitor, keyboard, or mouse, via the MEU.

To connect an external device:

1. Ensure that the external device is turned off.

2. Plug the device cable into the appropriate connector on the MEU.

3. Turn on the external device.

✎ Some manufacturers require that you install software drivers before using the devices. Refer to the documentation included with these devices for details.



3Using the MEU

Turning the System On and OffWhen the computer and MEU are connected, turn the system on and off using the power button on the computer.



Using the MEU

Operating External DevicesTo ensure that devices connected to the MEU are working properly, observe the following guidelines:

� Before connecting or disconnecting an external device, ensure that the device and the system are turned off.

� When restoring power to the system, ensure that all attached external devices are on, then turn on the computer.

Inserting and Removing MultiBay DevicesThe MultiBay supports the following devices:

� Diskette drive

� Optical drive (CD, DVD)

� Zip drive

� LS-120 drive

� Hard drive

ÄCAUTION: Static electricity can damage electronic components. Before beginning these procedures, make sure you are grounded (discharged of static electricity) by briefly touching a grounded, unpainted metal object or surface.

✎ You can insert MultiBay devices in the MEU MultiBay before connecting the computer to the MEU. However, MultiBay devices that contain writeable media (such as diskettes, optical discs, and zip discs) should only be inserted or removed when the computer is off.


Using the MEU


Inserting a MultiBay Device

If a weight-saver is installed in the MEU MultiBay, you must remove it before inserting another device. See “Removing a MultiBay Device” later in this chapter for more information.

To insert a device into the MultBay:

1. Prepare the device for inserting, if necessary, according to the instructions included with the device.

✎ A hard drive must be installed in an adapter before it can be inserted in the MultiBay. For more information, refer to the instructions included with the hard drive.

2. Push the device into the MultiBay until it clicks into place.



Using the MEU

Removing a MultiBay Device

To remove a device from the MultiBay:


2. Tilt up the front of the MEU 1 and slide the release latch 2.

3. Pull the device 3 from the MultiBay.


Using the MEU


Following MultiBay Guidelines

Refer to these guidelines when inserting and removing the following MultiBay devices.

ÄCAUTION: Failure to follow these guidelines may result in diminished system performance.

� Hard drive—Turn off power to the computer before inserting or removing a hard drive while the computer is connected to the MEU.

� Diskette drive—Turn off the system before replacing a diskette drive with an optical drive.

� Optical drive (CD, DVD)—Turn off the system before replacing an optical drive with a diskette drive or LS-120 drive.

A CD-RW drive can be inserted while the system is on. However, you must restart the system to enable CD-RW write capability.

� Zip drive—Turn off the system before inserting or removing a zip drive.

� LS-120 drive—Turn off the system before replacing an LS-120 drive with an optical drive.



Using the MEU

Inserting and Removing Optical Discs

Inserting Optical Discs

To place an optical disc (CD, CD-RW, or DVD) into an optical drive:

1. Press the release button on the optical drive to open the tray.

2. Pull the tray until it is fully extended.

3. Place the disc on the tray, label side up.

4. Push the tray into the drive. The optical drive clicks when it is fully closed.

Removing Optical Discs

To eject an optical disc from an optical drive:

� Press the release button on the drive tray

� Eject the disc using software on your computer

Manually Removing an Optical Disc

Occasionally, certain application or operating system software may disable the drive tray release button to prevent accidental damage to the disc.

When you cannot eject the optical disc using the release button or your computer software, use the following procedure to manually eject an optical disc.


Using the MEU


ÄCAUTION: Before beginning this procedure, turn off power to your system and connected devices.

1. Insert a straightened paper clip into the manual eject hole and push firmly.

2. When the eject mechanism releases, pull out the tray until it is fully extended.

3. Remove the optical disc.

4. Push the tray into the drive. The tray clicks into place when it is fully closed.



Using the MEU

Using the Stereo SpeakersIn addition to the computer speakers, the MEU comes with stereo speakers. When the computer is attached to the MEU, the system audio plays through the MEU speakers.

✎ Pressing the Fn+F5 hotkeys on the computer keyboard brings up an application that allows you to control the volume.


Reference Guide A–1

ATroubleshooting

Using the World Wide WebSupport services are available on the Internet through the Compaq Support Forum. You can either browse the postings as a guest, or register as a user and submit your own questions. Compaq responds to questions within one business day.

To access the Compaq Support Forum, go to the Compaq Web site at http://www.compaq.com.

Preparing to Call Technical SupportIf you cannot solve a problem using the troubleshooting tips in this section, you may need to call technical support. To receive the fastest possible solution when you call, run Compaq Diagnostics. Refer to your computer documentation for information on running diagnostics. Have the following information available when you call:

� The computer and MEU

� Serial numbers for the computer and MEU

� Purchase date on invoice

� Conditions under which the problem occurred

� Error messages that have occurred

� Hardware configuration

� Hardware and software you are using


A–2 Reference Guide

Troubleshooting

� Type of printer connected

� Printed information from Compaq Diagnostics or a list of the devices and error messages received

� Configuration settings, including contents of the system files

Solving Common ProblemsThe following tables list possible problems, the possible cause of each problem, and the recommended solutions.

Computer Connection Problems and Solutions

Problem Possible Cause Solution

The computer is not properly connected to the MEU.

The computer is not securely attached to the expansion connector.

Ensure the computer is securely attached to the expansion connector.

The optional extended battery pack is not fully seated in the MEU recess.

Rotate the battery pack out of the MEU recess, then reconnect the computer as shown in Chapter 2.


Troubleshooting


Computer Disconnection Problems and Solutions


The computer will not disconnect.

The connectors may be jammed.

Apply additional pressure when removing the computer from the MEU as shown in Chapter 2.

Ä Applying excessive force may damage connector pins.

The optional extended battery pack is jammed between the MEU recess and the expansion connector.

Push down on the battery pack to reseat it in the MEU recess, then disconnect the computer as shown in Chapter 2.


A–4 Reference Guide

Troubleshooting

External Device Problems and Solutions


A new device is not recognized as part of the computer system.

The signal cable or power cord of the new device is loose or disconnected.

� Ensure that all signal cables are securely connected to the device and the system.

� Ensure that all power cords are securely connected to the computer and an electrical outlet.

The device was connected while the system power was on.

Turn off the computer, turn on the device, then restart the computer.

Optical Drive Problems and Solutions


The system cannot read the optical disc.

The optical disc is not properly seated in the drive.

Eject the disc, reseat the disc in the drive tray, then close the drive tray.

The optical disc is upside down.

Eject the disc, turn it over, then close the drive tray.

The optical disc may be dirty or scratched.

Replace the disc.


Troubleshooting


The system cannot eject the optical disc.

The optical disc is not properly seated in the drive tray.

Turn off the computer, then manually eject the disc as shown in Chapter 3.

There is no power to the MEU.

� Turn on power to the system, then eject the disc.

� Manually eject the disc as shown in Chapter 3.

Optical Drive Problems and Solutions (Continued)


MultiBay Problems and Solutions


A MultiBay device is not recognized as part of the system.

The device is not properly inserted in the MultiBay.

Remove the device, then reinsert it as shown in Chapter 3.

The device was inserted while the system power was on.

Restart the computer while the device is in the MultiBay.


Reference Guide B–1

BSpecifications

This product is a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. For more information, refer to the Regulatory and Safety Notices on the Notebook Products Reference Library CD included with your computer.

Regulatory Agency Series NumbersRegulatory agency series numbers are used for product identification. Each approved product displays the assigned agency series number. To ensure continued safe and reliable operation, use the MEU only with the products listed below.

✎ This product is designed for IT power systems in Norway with phase-to-phase voltage not exceeding 240 VRMs.

Product Agency Series Number

Computer PP2120

AC Adapter PPP003, PPP005

External Battery PP2121


Reference Guide Index–1

IndexAAC Adapter

connecting 2–7power connector 1–2series number B–1

Bbattery pack

connecting computer to MEU 2–2

disconnecting computer from MEU 2–6

series number B–1troubleshooting A–2

bottom components 1–4

Ccautions

battery placement 2–3, 2–6CD removal 3–7connector pin damage A–3data loss situations 2–1electrical safety 3–2

CD/DVD ROM drivesinserting discs 3–6installing 3–2, 3–5troubleshooting A–4

Compaq Diagnostics A–1Compaq Support Forum A–1

Compaq Web site 1–5components 1–1connecting components

AC Adapter 2–7computer to MEU 2–1external devices 2–9

connections, troubleshooting A–2

Ddata loss caution 2–1diagnostics tests A–1disconnecting computer from

MEUprocedure 2–5troubleshooting A–3

diskette drive, installing 3–2, 3–5documentation resources 1–5DVD ROM drives

inserting discs 3–6installing 3–2, 3–5troubleshooting A–4

Eejecting CD manually 3–6electrical discharge 3–2electrical safety 2–7expansion connector 1–1external battery pack

connecting computer to MEU 2–2


Index–2 Reference Guide

Index

disconnecting computer from MEU 2–6

series number B–1troubleshooting A–2

external devicesconnecting 2–9operating 3–2troubleshooting A–4

Ffront components 1–1

Ggrounding procedures 3–2guide rails 1–2

Hhard drives, installing 3–2, 3–3,

3–5

Iinstalling MultiBay devices 3–2

Kkeyboards, connecting 2–9

Lleft side components 1–3lock pin 1–1LS-120 drives, installing 3–2, 3–5

Mmanually removing optical discs

3–6monitors, connecting 2–9MultiBay devices

installing 3–2location 1–3troubleshooting A–5

Oopening computer 2–4optical drives

inserting discs 3–2, 3–6installing 3–2, 3–5troubleshooting A–4

Pparallel connector 1–3power components

AC Adapter 2–7AC connectors 1–2turning computer on/off 3–1

printers, connecting 2–9PS/2 connectors 1–3

Rrear components 1–3regulatory agency series numbers

B–1release lever 1–2release plunger 1–1removing MultiBay devices 3–2right side components 1–1

Ssafety issues

electrical 2–7work environment 1–5

security cable slot 1–5serial connector 1–3software drivers for external

devices 2–9speakers 3–8specifications B–1stereo speakers 3–8


Index

Reference Guide Index–3

Ttechnical support A–1troubleshooting A–1turning on/off computer 3–1

UUSB connectors 1–2

VVGA connector 1–3

Wwarnings

computer misuse 1–5electrical safety 2–7

Web sites, Compaq 1–5

ZZip drives, installing 3–2, 3–5


Documents

Reference Guide Mobile Expansion Unith10032. · Tilt up the front of the MEU 1 and slide the release latch 2. 3. Pull the device 3 from the MultiBay. 233052-001.book Page 4 Tuesday,