Meridian 850
The
ROADSIDE
PORTABLE
GUIDE TO
MOBILE
COMPUTING
WITH YOUR
MERIDIAN 850
NOTEBOOK
User’s Guide
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Limitation of remedies and liabilities
The vendor’s entire liability and customers’ exclusive and sole remedy for damages from any cause whatsoever
(including without limitation any nonperformance, misrepresentation, or breach of warranty) shall be limited to
returning the products pursuant to the thirty (30) day satisfaction guarantee, or to repair or replace specific
products or services that do not comply with the limited warranty given by the vendor. Any products or services
repaired or replaced pursuant to this paragraph shall be warranted as of the date of delivery in accordance with
the terms and conditions herein for the duration of the one-year term of Limited Warranty given by the vendor.
In no event will the vendor be liable for any damages caused, in whole or in part, by customer, or for any
economic loss, physical injury, lost revenues, lost profits, lost savings or other indirect, incidental, special or
consequential damages incurred by any person, even if the vendor has been advised of the possibility of such
damage for claims.
Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages for consumer
products, and some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above
limitations or exclusions may not apply to you.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.
The vendor provides no warranties whatsoever on software.
Trademark Notices
Microsoft, MS, and MS-DOS, are registered trademarks and Windows is a trademark of Microsoft Corporation.
IBM and PS/2 are registered trademarks and PC/AT and Video Graphics Array (VGA) are trademarks of
International Business Machines Corporation.
Intelligent Power Manager is a registered trademark of DIA Semicon Systems, Inc.
Pentium is a trademark of the Intel Corporation.
Sound Blaster Pro is a trademark of Creative Technology, Ltd.
SystemSoft is a registered trademark, CardSoft and CardView are trademarks of SystemSoft Corporation.
Other brand or product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.
This document may not, in whole or in part, be copied, photocopied, reproduced, translated or reduced to any
electronic medium or machine readable form without prior consent, in writing, from the vendor.
With this document the vendor makes no warranties or representations, either expressed, or implied, with
respect to the products described herein. The information presented herein is being supplied on an “AS IS”
basis and is expressly subject to change without notice.
© Copyright 1995
Micron Electronics, Inc.
All rights reserved
700-0219-00
M850
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Meridian 850 One Year Limited Warranty
All new Merdian 850 computer systems come with a One Year Limited
Warranty which provides that the products we manufacture or assemble,
other than items such as software, disks and related documentation, will
remain in good working condition, free from defects in material and
workmanship under normal use and service, for a period of one year from
the date of shipment. This warranty is limited to the original purchaser
and is not transferable. During this one year period, we will repair or
replace, at its option, any defective product or parts at no additional
charge to the customer, provided that the defective product or part is
returned, shipment prepaid, to us. All replaced products and parts become
the property of the vendor. Replacement parts shall be similar new or
serviceable used parts. This Limited Warranty does not extend to any
products which have been damaged as a result of accident, misuse, abuse
(such as incorrect voltages, power surges, improper or insufficient
ventilation, failure to follow provided operating instructions, “acts of
God” or other situations beyond our control), or as the result of service or
modification by anyone other than the vendor. Non-factory installed parts
or components are not covered, nor is damage to our components covered
as a result of their installation. This warranty does not cover work
performed by others, all warranty work must be performed by us.
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FCC Compliance Statement
For US and Canadian Users
Warning!
Changes or modifications to this unit not expressly approved by the party
responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the
equipment.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B
digital device, pursuant to Part 15, Subpart B of the FCC Rules. These limits are
designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential
installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and,
if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications.
However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular
installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television
reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment on and off, the user is
encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures.
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a different circuit.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
The connection of a non-shielded equipment interface cable to this equipment will
invalidate the FCC Certification of this device and may cause interference levels which
exceed the limits established by the FCC for this equipment.
This equipment is a Class B digital apparatus which complies with the Radio
Interference Regulations, C.R.C., c. 1374.
Cet appareil numèrique de la classe B est conformè au Règlement sur le brouillage
radioèlèctrique, C.R.C., ch. 1374.
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Contents
Contents
Welcome! .......................................................................................9
1. Unpacking Your System ......................................................... 11
Do I Have Everything? ............................................................. 11
What's in the Box? ...................................................................12
Let Your Computer Acclimate Itself ..........................................13
Keep the Box ...........................................................................13
Where to Work .........................................................................14
Beware Heat, Cold, Humidity, and Glare .................................14
2. The Big Picture........................................................................15
System Features......................................................................15
Front View................................................................................16
Side Views ...............................................................................18
Back View ................................................................................20
Using the Keyboard .................................................................24
Disk Drives...............................................................................29
PCMCIA Card Slot ...................................................................31
3. Battery and Power Management............................................32
Installing the Battery for the First Time ....................................32
Turning On Your System ..........................................................35
Battery Endurance Tips............................................................35
Charging the Battery ................................................................38
Power Management.................................................................40
Battery Precautions..................................................................43
AC Adapter Precautions...........................................................44
4. Using Your Meridian 850.........................................................45
Opening the Lid .......................................................................45
TruePoint™ Pointing Device ....................................................46
LCD Display .............................................................................46
PS/2 Style Mouse ....................................................................47
Serial Mouse ............................................................................47
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Contents
External Video Monitor.............................................................48
External Keyboard ...................................................................48
Floppy Disks ............................................................................49
Dual PCMCIA Card Slot...........................................................51
5. Using SETUP ...........................................................................53
Running SETUP.......................................................................54
Startup .....................................................................................55
Memory....................................................................................59
Disks ........................................................................................60
Components ............................................................................62
Power.......................................................................................64
Exit ...........................................................................................66
6. How to Install Options ...........................................................68
Installing More RAM ................................................................69
7. How to Maintain Your System ................................................71
Travel Precautions ...................................................................71
System Hardware Precautions ................................................72
AC Adapter Precautions...........................................................73
Battery Power Pack Precautions .............................................73
System Specifications ................................................................74
Handy Cheat Sheet .....................................................................76
Glossary.......................................................................................78
Index.............................................................................................80
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Welcome!
Welcome!
Welcome to the Meridian 850 User’s Guide! This guide is designed to
help you get the most out of your system and keep it running trouble free,
year after year.
The User’s Guide is divided into seven chapters.
Chapter 1, Unpacking Your System, explains how to safely open and set
up your new system.
Chapter 2, The Big Picture, gives an overview of a typical system
including information about buttons, connectors and LED indicators.
Chapter 3, Battery and Power management, gives information about
using your system for the first time and instructions for charging the
battery pack and connecting the AC adapter.
Chapter 4, How to Use Your Meridian 850, shows how to turn on the
system and begin working.
Chapter 5, Using SETUP, explains how to use the built-in SETUP
features to configure your system.
Chapter 6, How to Install Options, shows how to add system RAM,
PCMCIA cards, or an external floppy drive.
Chapter 7, How to Maintain Your System, explains how to care for
your hardware.
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Welcome!
System Specifications lists technical details about your system.
The Handy Cheat Sheet gives a short summary of some of the most
needed or most forgotten commands.
The Glossary gives definitions of common computer terms.
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Chapter 1 - Unpacking Your System
1. Unpacking Your System
Obviously, the first step towards using your new Meridian is getting it
safely to your door and unpacked.
Do I Have Everything?
The packing slip is one of the last items sealed into your computer box. It
lists everything we shipped you. As you unpack the box, check the
contents against the packing slip. If an item is listed on your packing slip,
but isn't in the box, it may be installed in your system, or shipped inside
one of the manuals or accessory bags. If you're sure something is missing,
call Customer Service right away. The Customer Service phone number is
listed on an insert to this book.
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Chapter 1 - Unpacking Your System
What's in the Box?
Your box contains the packing slip, this manual, a plastic bag full of
cables and other manuals, a battery pack and AC adapter, and your
Windows & DOS manual.
This book shows you how to set up your system and keep it running.
Your Windows for Workgroups and/or your MS-DOS User's Guide has
introductory chapters to help you install and configure DOS and
Windows. Since we have already loaded and tested DOS and Windows on
your hard drive, you can probably skip those parts for now. Those
manuals will be useful if you need to reinstall DOS or Windows onto your
computer. For now, this book should get you up and running.
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Chapter 1 - Unpacking Your System
Let Your Computer Acclimate Itself
Although your computer system can easily stand temperature extremes, it
doesn’t much like rapid changes in temperature, especially going from a
cold front stoop to a warm and comfy office, or from a steamy jungle mail
drop to an air-conditioned villa. Rapid changes in temperature can cause
condensation inside your case. If it is hot or cold outside when you receive
your system, let the computer gradually adjust to room
temperature before you plug it in.
When you first receive your computer you will certainly be
eager to get it going and start putting it to work, but be patient.
Take the time to let it grow accustomed to its new environment.
Keep the Box
It's a good idea to keep your Meridian’s box and packing materials. That
way, if you ever have to store the system or return it, your components
will be well-protected.
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Chapter 2 - The Big Picture
Where to Work
Your Meridian 850 is a tough, rugged machine. Generally it will be
comfortable and run well wherever you are comfortable. Extremes of
heat, cold, and humidity can be challenging to your system's parts, but
usually if you can take it, so can the computer. There are, however, some
things you take very easily that the computer does not like at all. Static
electricity is one. Dust, water, steam, and oil are others. Wherever you
decide to pull over for roadside computing, choose a clean, comfortable
work area for your system.
Note: It’s best to place your Meridian near a wall socket for easier access.
Beware Heat, Cold, Humidity, and Glare
Pick a spot for your computer that’s not too - not too hot and not too cold,
not too dark and not too bright - glare can make it hard to read the
screen. Overheating can destroy computer components.
Allow plenty of room for air to circulate around the
case.
Also, be sure to use grounded electrical outlets. Although
your computer has its own electrical filters, fuses, and protections, and
even its own built-in surge suppressor, we strongly recommend using an
external surge suppressor to ensure your system is safe. An external surge
suppressor looks like an extension cord with several grounded outlets.
High quality surge protectors shield your computer from lightning strikes,
surges, shorts, and other electrical hazards.
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Chapter 1 - Unpacking Your System
2. The Big Picture
Your Meridian 850 is designed to give you the speed and power of a
desktop system in a lightweight, portable package.
System Features
Every Meridian 850 includes:
• Intel Pentium microprocessor running at 75 or 90MHz
• 256K external (L2) system cache
• RAM expandable to 32MB
• 8 or 16MB standard; two memory slots fit 4, 8, or 16MB modules
• IDE hard drives: 528MB to 1.3GB
• PCMCIA slot fits two Type II cards or one Type III card
• High-speed local bus video with 1MB video RAM
• 800 X 600 10.3” diagonal dual-scan color display or
600 X 400 9.4” active matrix color display
• 84-key keyboard with embedded numeric keypad and
12 dedicated function keys, inverted “T”
• Eraser-shaped integrated TruePoint™ pointing device
• Replaceable, rechargeable NiMH battery
• Ports: Serial, Parallel supports Enhanced Parallel (EPP) and
Extended Capabilities (ECP), external VGA video, external
keyboard, PS/2 mouse, Mic-In, stereo Speaker-Out
• Audio: 16-bit stereo output, MIDI playback, Sound Blaster Pro
and Microsoft Sound System compatible
• EPA Energy Star compliant (APM Power Management)
• Flash BIOS upgradable by diskette
• AC-DC adapter
• Windows NT 3.50 certified
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Chapter 2 - The Big Picture
Front View
Mouse Buttons
The two square buttons on top of the palm rest work just like the buttons
of a conventional PC mouse. Your right thumb clicks the buttons while a
finger moves the cursor with the TruePoint pointing device.
TruePoint™Pointing Device
The TruePoint pointing device works much like a joystick. The onscreen
cursor moves whichever way you tilt TruePoint’s red button. The harder
you push, the faster the cursor moves.
Suspend/Resume Button
The Suspend/Resume button (coffee cup symbol) sets the system to the
power saving mode when you need to take a break. To use the Suspend/
Resume button you must check the Enable Power Saving option under
SETUP’s Power menu. See chapter 5, Using SETUP, for details.
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Chapter 2 - The Big Picture
Meridian 850, Front View
Display Latches
LED indicator
lights
TruePoint™ Pointing
Device
Security
Cable
Slot
Power Switch
Reset Switch
Mouse Buttons
Suspend/Resume Button
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Chapter 2 - The Big Picture
Side Views
Right side view
Security
Cable
Slot
Suspend/Resume
Button (must be
pressed for one
second)
Floppy Disk
Drive Eject
Button
Power Button (must be
pressed for one second)
Floppy Disk
Drive Slot
Reset Switch (a
ball-point pen
works fine)
PCMCIA Card
Compartment
Cover
Left side view
Removable Hard
Disk Drive
PC Card
Eject Buttons
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Chapter 2 - The Big Picture
Power Button
To turn the system on or off, press and hold the power button for 1-2
seconds. When you turn the power on, the speaker beeps once (if sound is
enabled).
The Power Button will not work when the system is in suspend mode or
when the computer is being powered by battery only and the display panel
is closed. See Chapter 3, Battery and Power Management.
Reset Switch
Warning!
When the system is rebooted all information in random access memory (RAM) is lost.
The reset switch to the right of the floppy drive reboots the system. Insert
the tip of a ball-point pen into the opening to press the switch.
PCMCIA Card Eject Buttons
These buttons let you insert or remove PCMCIA cards in the PCMCIA
slots.
Note: PCMCIA cards can be removed and replaced while the system is on
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Chapter 2 - The Big Picture
Back View
Mouse
Connector
Keyboard
Connector
Video
Connector
Serial
Connector
Parallel
Connector
DC Power
Connector
Field Ground
Terminal
Mic-In
(mono)
Speaker-Out
(Stereo)
Meridian 850 Rear Panel
Each connector at the back of the system unit is displayed below. You can
configure the parallel or serial ports from the SETUP menu. See Chapter
5, Using SETUP, for detailed instructions.
Caution:
Whenever you connect or disconnect cables, turn off all power
switches.
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Chapter 2 - The Big Picture
Connector
Description
Parallel port
25-pin parallel port for printers or other
devices. Configure the parallel port from
the SETUP program , Ctrl + Alt + S at
boot
Serial port
9-pin connector for a mouse, modem, or
other serial devices. Configure the serial
port from the SETUP program, Ctrl + Alt
+ S at boot
Video
15-pin connector for external VGA
monitor. The system will automatically
detect an external monitor at boot.
Mouse
6-pin mini-DIN connector used for
connecting a PS/2 style mouse.
Auto-detect at power up.
Keyboard
6-pin mini-DIN connector used for
connecting a 101/102-key external
keyboard. Auto-detect at power up.
DC Power
Speaker-Out
Mic-In
Connect the AC adapter cable here.
Mini-pin jack for stereo speakers
Mini-pin jack for mono microphone
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Chapter 2 - The Big Picture
Sound Features
Your Meridian 850 features 16-bit, Sound Blaster Pro and Microsoft
Sound-compatible stereo sound. The system’s signal output is designed for
amplified stereo speakers with 6-8ohm impedance.
This sound system works automatically with Windows, but when
installing DOS games or applications that use DOS Sound Blaster your
software must use the following three hardware settings:
I/O Address = 220, IRQ = 5, DMA = 1.
Indicator Lights: Where they are
Located just below your screen, the indicator lights show the status of the
power, battery pack, hard disk drive, Caps Lock, Num Lock and Scroll
Lock.
Hard Disk Drive
CHARGE
Power/Suspend
Num Lock
LOWBATT
Floppy Drive
Caps Lock
Scroll Lock
Indicator Lights Location
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Chapter 2 - The Big Picture
Indicator Lights: What they mean
Indicator
Appearance Description
Power/Suspend Glowing
Blinking
The power is turned on.
The system is in suspend
mode.
LOWBATT
Slow blinking The battery power level is
low. If enabled in SETUP,
the system beeps slowly
warning you to recharge or
replace the battery, or plug
in the AC adapter. See
chapter 3, Battery and
Power Management.
Fast blinking:
Battery power is nearly
gone. If enabled in SETUP,
the system beeps quickly
warning you to connect the
AC adapter.
CHARGE
Orange
Green
Battery is charging.
Battery is fully charged.
HDD
FDD
Green
Green
System is using the hard
drive.
System is using the floppy
disk drive.
Caps Lock
Num Lock
Scroll Lock
Green
Green
Green
Caps Lock is enabled.
Num Lock is enabled
Scroll Lock is enabled
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Chapter 2 - The Big Picture
Using the Keyboard
Function keys
Backspace
Escape
Tab
Alt
Fn key
Enter
Ctrl
Shift
The keyboard is your primary means of giving your computer numbers
and words, and telling it what to do with them. The keyboard works much
like the keys on a typewriter, but computer keyboards have several
specialty keys. Most of today’s software packages have several standard
uses for the specialty keys. For example, in most software packages,
pressing the F1 key summons the online help feature.
The list on the next page explains the most important keys on the
keyboard.
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Chapter 2 - The Big Picture
What the Keys Do
General Functions
Alternate (Alt) - used with other keys to perform special
functions defined by the application you are using. While holding
down the Alt key, press the other key.
Caps Lock - toggles on and off making the typewriter letter keys
appear in uppercase.
Control (Ctrl) - used with other keys to perform special functions defined by the
application you are using. While holding down the Ctrl key, press the other key.
Delete (Del) - deletes the character to the right of the insertion point.
Enter - tells the computer you’re done typing and want it to execute your command.
Some people call this the Return key. Also used as a paragraph return key when typing.
Escape (Esc) - generally allows you to escape a function without completing it.
Function Keys (F1 through F12) - the purpose of the function keys depends on the
application you are using.
Insert - toggles between insert and overtype mode. In insert mode, whatever you type
pushes any existing characters to the right, “downstream.” In overtype mode, new
characters simply overwrite existing characters, deleting them as you go.
Pause - typically suspends the application you are using. Not all applications use the
Pause key.
Print Screen - typically prints out the current screen on the printer. Sometimes used
with the Ctrl key. Some applications disable this function or require special drivers to
work properly with this key.
Scroll Lock - defined by the application software you are using. Not all applications
use the Scroll Lock key.
Shift - shifts the typewriter keys from lower to upper case or from the lower symbol to
the upper symbol on the key.
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Chapter 2 - The Big Picture
What the Keys Do (continued)
Editing and Movement Keys
Backspace - located above the Enter key. It may be labeled as
Bksp or as an arrow pointing to the left. The Backspace key moves
the insertion point to the left one space, erasing the characters in its
path.
Down Arrow - moves the insertion point down one line.
End - moves the insertion point to the end of the line or screen.
Home - moves the insertion point to the top left side of the current page or screen.
Left Arrow - moves the insertion point to the left one space.
Page Down - scrolls the screen page down to the next page.
Page Up - scrolls the screen page up to the previous page.
Right Arrow - moves the insertion point to the right one space.
Tab - moves the insertion point to the next tab setting or field. Typically, Shift+ Tab
moves the insertion point back one tab setting or field.
Up Arrow - moves the insertion point up one line.
Num Lock (Num Lk) - toggles the numeric keypad. When the Num Lock light is on,
the keys on the right side of the keyboard work like a ten-key calculator. When the
Num Lock light is out, the keys move the insertion point.
Special Key Combinations
Ctrl + Alt + Del - restarts the computer. Also called a “warm boot” because it clears
the memory, resets, and reboots the computer without stopping the hard drive. This will
not save your current work.
Ctrl + Alt + S - Run SETUP program (from the DOS prompt or during bootup).
Ctrl + Break or Ctrl + C - Break out of the current program.
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Chapter 2 - The Big Picture
Using the Embedded Numeric Keypad
Embedded Numeric
Keypad (gray keys)
A numeric keypad for entering numbers is embedded within the main
keyboard. To use the numeric characters, press the Num Lock button.
Keys with a number in the lower right corner will type numbers whenever
Num Lock is enabled. To return the keys to normal letters, press Num
Lock again.
If you install an external keyboard or keypad, the keypad function is
disabled.
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Chapter 2 - The Big Picture
Special Key Combinations
The following key combinations let you perform special functions without
exiting your application
Note: Some applications may conflict with certain special key combinations. If you
press key combination without results, exit the application and try again.
*Fn + F10
*Fn + F11
Fn + F12
Fn + F1
Decreases LCD display contrast
Increases LCD display contrast
Sets beep volume
Toggles display output:
Once=Meridian’s LCD only
Twice=External monitor only
Three times=Both displays at once
*Dual Scan color displays only.
Setting the Speaker Volume
Pushing FN + F12 cycles through the four volume levels for the internal
speaker. When you set the volume level, the system records and
remembers the level you set for the Power On beep, the Suspend Mode
beep, and the normal system beep. This setting is retained in memory
even when you turn the system off. To lower the volume of the low
battery alert, cycle through the volume settings by pressing Fn + F12.
Caution:
If you disable sound or set the Meridian 850’s volume too low, you
may not be able to hear the low-battery warning.
Note: Some settings such as BIOS errors and unknown system problems will always
beep at maximum volume.
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Chapter 2 - The Big Picture
Disk Drives
Your system comes with a 528MB (or larger), low power consumption
removable hard disk drive, and a 3.5-inch floppy disk drive. Upgrades are
available.
Caution:
• Do not touch the connector of hard disk drive pack
• Protect the disk drive from jarring or strong vibrations
• Only remove the disk drive when absolutely necessary
• Regularly back up your data on floppy disks or others
• Discharge static electricity from the disk drive
• Use an approved Electrostatic Discharge casing (ESD bag) when
storing your hard drive outside of the notebook
Removable Hard Disk Drive
To remove the hard disk drive:
1. Turn the computer off and locate your removable hard disk drive
as illustrated in the following illustration.
more steps next page
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Chapter 2 - The Big Picture
continued from last page
Removable Hard Disk Drive
Removable Hard Disk Drive Location
2. Remove the retaining screw with a Phillips screwdriver.
This frees the drive.
Removing the
retaining screw
3. Turn the computer over, then place your fingers in the
groove on the disk drive and pull the drive out of the
socket.
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Chapter 2 - The Big Picture
PCMCIA Card Slot
PC Card Ins and Outs
Two Type II cards
Removing the bottom card
Note: the bottom slot is socket 0 (zero).
Your system comes with a versatile card slot which can hold one Type-III
or two Type-II expansion cards (stacked).
The slot is on the left side of the computer. To insert a PC card, align the
card so the label is up and the connector is toward the computer. Care-
fully slide the card into the slot.
To remove a card, push the PC Card Eject Button.
Your system comes with card and socket services that allow most PC
cards be recognized. Some third-party cards may require their own client
software.
Push the card into the slot until it is completely seated.
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Chapter 3 - Battery and Power Management
3. Battery and Power
Management
Installing the Battery for the First Time
Your system operates on a rechargeable Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH)
battery pack. To prevent possible damage during shipment the battery
pack has not been installed in your system. Before turning on the system
for the first time, remove the battery pack from its package and install it.
Once the battery is installed, allow it to fully charge before using your
system without the AC adapter.
When the battery is fully charged, the CHARGE indicator light (See
Chapter 2, The Big Picture: Indicator Lights) will glow green. If the
battery is not fully charged, the light will be orange.
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Chapter 3 - Battery and Power Management
Installing the Battery Pack
Inserting the battery pack
To install the battery pack:
1. Insert the battery pack into the battery compartment.
2. Push the battery into the compartment until you hear a click.
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Chapter 3 - Battery and Power Management
Removing the Battery Pack
Battery Release Locks
To remove the battery pack:
1. Locate the battery pack and battery pack release locks.
2. Slide the battery pack release locks. Releasing the battery pack
locks. The battery pack will pop up slightly.
3. Pull the battery pack out of the compartment.
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Chapter 3 - Battery and Power Management
Turning On Your System
After installing the battery pack, allow it to charge fully before using
your system for the first time. Once the battery is fully charged, go
ahead and open your system and push the power button. Hold the button
down for one second to turn on the system.
Note: Be sure to wait at least one to two seconds between each time you press the
power button. Otherwise, the button may not respond.
Battery Endurance Tips
How long can you run on a single charge? This varies greatly with how
you use your system and how you configure its power-conserving
features. Your Meridian can run a lot longer if you do one or more of the
following:
• Use the AC adapter whenever possible
• Operate in cooler temperatures
• Store the battery in low humidity
also, in SETUP:
• Uncheck “LCD Max Brightness”
• Uncheck “L1 Cache Enable”
• Uncheck “L2 Cache Enable”
See Chapter 5, Using SETUP, to learn how to set the power management
features.
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Chapter 3 - Battery and Power Management
Low Battery Conditions
Two warnings alert you when your system’s battery is low and needs
charging. The first warning is the orange battery indicator light blinking
slowly. The system speaker will also beep (if system sound is enabled).
The first warning gives you about five minutes to quit working, save your
data, or connect the AC adapter to the system. After that, your data could
be lost.
At the second warning the orange battery indicator light blinks rapidly and
the system speaker beeps again (if system sound is enabled). After the
second warning, the system could shut down at any moment, erasing all
your unsaved work.
Warning!
Systems containing more than the base amount of system memory might have a slightly
shorter initial low-battery warning.
Note: If your low battery warning volumes are set to OFF, the system speaker will not
beep to alert you to a low battery problem.
If you receive a low battery warning, you should immediately do the
following:
If your AC adapter and a power outlet are available:
1. Set in suspend mode by pushing the suspend/resume button.
2. Connect the AC adapter to the system.
3. Resume the system from suspend mode by pushing the suspend/
resume button.
more steps next page
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Chapter 3 - Battery and Power Management
Low Battery Conditions (continued)
If an extra fully charged battery is available:
1. Save all necessary files.
2. Exit the application.
3. Turn off the system.
4. Remove the battery pack and replace it with a fully charged battery
pack.
If no AC adapter, power outlet or extra charged battery is available:
1. Save all necessary files.
2. Exit the application.
3. Turn off the system.
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Chapter 3 - Battery and Power Management
Charging the Battery
To charge the battery, plug the AC adapter into the system and an
electrical outlet. The AC adapter converts alternating current (AC) into
direct current (DC). When the power switch is turned on, the AC adapter
supplies power to the system and recharges the battery pack only when the
system in suspend mode. Otherwise, to recharge you must turn off the
computer.
Recharging takes about 80 minutes for an empty battery pack when the
computer is off or in suspend mode. The battery will not recharge while
the computer is being used.
While the battery is charging, the CHARGE LED is orange. Once the
battery is fully charged, the CHARGE LED turns green.
Pre-charging a Dead Battery
If the battery has been completely discharged or placed in prolonged
storage, it may need a pre-charge in addition to a normal charge. A pre-
charge can take as little as a few seconds or as much as an hour in some
extreme cases. While the battery pre-charges, the CHARGE LED will
slowly flash orange.
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Chapter 3 - Battery and Power Management
Battery Temperature Sensor
The AC adapter will not charge a battery when it is too hot or too cold. If
the battery is outside normal operating temperature, the adapter will wait
for the battery to warm up or cool down before it begins charging. While
the system unit waits for the battery to return to normal operating
temperature, the CHARGE LED will slowly flash green.
Faulty Battery Indicator
The orange CHARGE LED may flash when a faulty battery pack is
installed. If the CHARGE LED flashes orange rapidly, remove the faulty
battery pack immediately.
Warning!
Powering the system with the AC adapter and a faulty battery pack installed can
damage the AC adapter.
Don’t Unplug the AC Adapter with the Power On
Never unplug the AC adapter when the system is turned on. This may
cause your computer to behave unpredictably.
However, you don’t need to turn off the computer before connecting the
AC adapter, if the adapter is plugged into an outlet.
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Chapter 3 - Battery and Power Management
Power Management
Your Meridian 850 can operate in four different power modes, depending
on how you’d like to use your computer. The four power modes--Normal,
Power Saving, Battery Only, and Suspend--allow you to get the most
performance under a variety of conditions (See Chapter 5, Using SETUP
for more details).
In addition, you can select Low, Medium, High, or Custom Power Savings
to specify Timeouts for your CPU, video, hard disk drive, and Global
system components. Custom includes a Monitor Video Activity feature
that resets the Timeout clock whenever something moves onscreen, like a
mouse pointer.
Last, Meridian’s Suspend Controls let you tell Meridian to enter Global
Suspend mode after a specified time, or upon a Low Battery warning, and
to resume operation at an appointed time or in response to a modem ring.
Normal Mode
Lets you operate at top speed without any interruptions. You enable
Normal mode by unchecking Enable Power Saving under SETUP’s Power
menu. This setting is appropriate if you work non-stop on your machine
while it is plugged into the AC adapter. Important: Normal mode shortens
the how long your battery will last when you disconnect from AC power.
Power Saving Mode
Saves power when Meridian uses either the AC adapter or the battery. You
enable Power Saving mode by checking Enable Power Saving under
SETUP’s Power menu. This setting is appropriate if you like to leave your
system running constantly, but you use it only periodically.
Battery Only Mode
Lets you run without interruptions while connected to the AC adapter, but
conserves power when running on the battery. You enable Battery Only
mode by checking Battery Only under SETUP’s Power menu. This setting
works best for heavy home use combined with mobile computing.
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Chapter 3 - Battery and Power Management
Suspend Mode
Deactivates one or more of Meridian’s internal components, letting you
conserve power (battery or AC). You can customize Suspend Mode to
save power in several ways, letting you choose what shuts down as well as
when. The Meridian 850 has four settings for Suspend Mode: CPU, Video,
Disk, and Global. Your system can deactivate any one of these areas when
it senses no activity there, or have all of them power down (“Global”)
when no activity is detected an any one of the main system components.
CPU Timeout
The system runs at full speed, but the Pentium CPU slows down after
sensing no CPU activity for the specified number of seconds.
Video Timeout
Video shuts down after a specified number of minutes without video
activity.
Disk Timeout
The hard disk spins down after a specified number of minutes without any
hard disk accesses within that period.
Global Timeout
Turns off all devices except memory (Global Suspend) if no activity is
sensed for the specified number of minutes.
Monitor Video Activity
Prevents power saving modes from engaging while there is any video
activty, including screen savers.
Warning!
While in Suspend Mode, the system still draws a small amount of power. If you leave
your system in Suspend mode for a long time, the battery will eventually run down.
In Suspend Mode, system clock speed is lowered to 0 MHz and the green
power/suspend light blinks continuously. Push and hold the suspend/
resume button for about one second to enter or cancel suspend mode.
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Chapter 3 - Battery and Power Management
Power Savings Settings
These four options let you tailor the Timeouts for your system
components. Low Power Savings gives you maximum performance but
shortest battery life; Medium Power Saveings gives you moderate
performance and moderate battery life; High Power Savings gives you
minimum performance but longest battery life, and Custom Power
Settings lets you manually specify Timeouts for your CPU, video, hard
disk drive, and Global system components. Custom Power Settings also
includes a Monitor Video Activity feature that resets the Timeout timer
whenever something moves onscreen, like a mouse pointer.
Suspend Controls
These allow you to set automatic Suspend and automatic Resume
commands.
Suspend Timeout specifies a Global Suspend mode (all components
turned off except memory) after a specific time.
Low Battery Suspend tells Meridian to automatically enter Global
Suspend after a Low Battery warning.
Modem Ring Resume awakens your system after a modem ring is
detected.
Set Resume Alarm awakens your system at the time of day you
designate.
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Chapter 3 - Battery and Power Management
Battery Precautions
1. Do not expose the battery to fire, which can cause explosion, or allow it to become
dented or deformed.
2. Do not run your system on battery power for a long time at temperatures over 95
degrees F (35C). Also, do not store the battery at high temperatures. This can
significantly reduce battery life.
3. Temperature extremes can greatly affect the life of the battery. It should be kept in a
low-humidity area and temperature range of between 14 and 104 F (-10 and 40 C)
when being stored for less than one month and between 14 and 86 F (-10 and 30 C)
when being stored for over one month.
4. The battery may be damaged if it is used in any device other than your computer. Also,
do not attempt to use your computer with any other make of AC adapter or battery
charger. This includes the Meridian 400 AC adapter.
5. Do not force the battery into the system unit. Do not drop it.
6. Do not short-circuit the battery electrodes.
7. Do not be alarmed if the battery feels warm to the touch when installed in your system.
This is normal.
8. If the CHARGE LED on the computer blinks green while charging, remove the battery
pack and allow it to return to normal operation temperature before recharging.
9. After recharging, if the battery power quickly becomes weak, or if the CHARGE LED
on the computer blinks orange rapidly during recharging, the battery power pack’s
service life has probably come to an end. Promptly replace it with a new battery pack,
or remove the battery pack and use AC adapter for power source. Do not leave a dead
battery pack in the computer.
10.Do not to open the pack. It contains harmful materials that can catch fire when exposed
to the air or chemically burn your skin. Dispose of batteries according to local
regulations.
11.The battery may not charge if its contacts become dirty. You can clean the contacts
with a cloth.
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Chapter 3 - Battery and Power Management
AC Adapter Precautions
1. It is extremely dangerous to use the AC adapter when it is wet. If it should become wet
or damaged, immediately unplug the adapter from the power outlet and the computer.
2. Do not subject the adapter to strong vibration or shocks. Be careful not to drop it.
3. Do not expose the adapter to direct sunlight for prolonged periods.
4. Do not use or store the adapter near chemicals or around corrosive gases.
5. Do not use or store the adapter in places subject to extreme temperatures or near a
heat-producing source. Avoid using it in extreme humidity or dusty conditions.
6. Do not unplug the AC power cord or DC connector by pulling on the cord. Instead,
grasp the plug firmly and pull it out. Also, do not hold the adapter by its AC cord or
DC input connector.
7. After unplugging the DC input connector from the computer or AC power cord from
the adapter, wait at least 5 seconds before attempting to reconnect it.
8. Do not attempt to open the adapter, which has no user-serviceable parts. Opening it can
result in electrical shock or adapter malfunction.
9. When the adapter is not being used, unplug its AC power cord. While attached to a
wall outlet, the adapter continues to supply DC voltage to the plug connector even
when it is unplugged from the computer. If the loose plug comes into contact with
metal, a short circuit could occur, causing damage to the adapter.
10.Do not use the adapter with any other devices other than this computer. This includes
the Meridian 400. Also, do not attach any other make of AC adapter other than the one
supplied with the computer. Even momentarily attempting to use a different adapter
can cause serious or fatal damage to your computer.
11.To ensure proper ventilation and heat dissipation, keep the AC adapter positioned with
its top upward. Also, do not cover the adapter during use with cloth, paper or other
materials that can interfere with heat release, or it may become damaged.
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Chapter 4 - How to Use Your Meridian 850
4. Using Your Meridian 850
Opening the Lid
To open the display, pull the latches at the both sides of the system
backward and lift the display carefully, as illustrated.
Display Latches
LED indicator
lights
TruePoint Pointing
Device
Mouse Buttons
Interior Features (Front view)
Examining the Interior Features
The suspend/resume button, LED indicator lights, embedded pointing
device and mouse buttons are illustrated in the above picture.
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Chapter 4 - How to Use Your Meridian 850
TruePoint™ Pointing Device
The red button, called the TruePoint™ embedded pointing device, works
like a joystick. Simply put a finger on it and tilt it the direction you want
the cursor on the screen to go. The harder you tilt, the faster it moves.
When you need to click on something, use the rectangular mouse buttons
(on top of the wrist rest) exactly as you would use the two buttons on a
mouse.
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Chapter 4 - How to Use Your Meridian 850
PS/2 Style Mouse
Before you can use an external mouse, you must first install its device
driver. This software enables your mouse to communicate with the system.
See your mouse documentation for instructions how to install the mouse
and mouse driver.
Your system automatically switches to a PS/2 mouse if one is connected to
the PS/2 Mouse port. You cannot use both the embedded pointing device
and the external mouse at the same time.
Note: A PS/2 style mouse may not work correctly if you connect it after bootup. Always
turn the power off before connecting a PS/2 style mouse.
Serial Mouse
Before you can use any external mouse, you must first install its device
driver. This software enables your mouse to communicate with the system.
See your mouse documentation to learn how to install the mouse and
mouse driver.
To use a serial mouse, run the SETUP program (Ctrl+Alt+S system
startup). In SETUP, pull down the Components menu, then clear the
checkbox next to Internal Mouse. The next time you boot up, you can use
a serial mouse.
After the TruePoint device is disabled, connect a serial mouse to the serial
port at the back of the system unit. Do not try to connect a PS/2 style
mouse to the serial port. The mouse will use the COM1 serial port.
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Chapter 4 - How to Use Your Meridian 850
External Video Monitor
If you attach an external monitor to your Meridian, the computer will
detect it on power up, initially sending send its video signal to the external
monitor only. However, if you connect an external monitor during use, the
LCD screen initially will remain on. You can toggle screen modes by
pressing the F1 key while holding down the Fn key (Fn + F1). Available
modes are: External only, LCD only, and Simultaneous LCD and
External.
External Video Capabilities
The Meridian 850 supports the following external video resolutions and
color depths:
Resolution
Colors
256, 32K, 64K
256
640 x 480
800 x 600
1024 x 768
256
Tips on using Meridian’s LCD display
1. To power up with the LCD panel closed, you must have the AC adapter connected.
On battery power alone: open the panel, turn on power, then close the panel.
2. If you use the Meridian with the LCD panel closed, we recommend that you run the
system with the AC adapter plugged in.
External Keyboard
Connect a normal 101-key keyboard with a suitable adapter, then turn on
power. The external keyboard will operate simultaneously with Meridian’s
onboard keyboard, but the external one will lack an Fn key.
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Chapter 4 - How to Use Your Meridian 850
Floppy Disks
Floppy disks are used to:
• transfer information from one computer to another
• install software on your system’s hard drive
• make backup copies of your software and data
When you insert a floppy disk into the system’s floppy disk drive, you can
read the information stored on the disk and write information to the disk.
Your Meridian 850 comes with a 3.5-inch 1.44MB internal floppy drive.
You can use either high-density (1.44MB storage capacity) or double-
sided/double-density (720KB storage capacity) floppy disks in this drive.
You can tell the disks apart by looking at the edge of the disk opposite the
sliding metal panel.
• 1.44MB disks have a write-protected tab on one side and a sensing
hole on the other side
• 720KB disks have only a write-protect tab
To write-protect either kind of disk, slide the plastic write-protect tab
towards the edge, uncovering the hole.
As you push the disk into the drive you will hear a faint click as the disk
slides into place. To release the disk, push the button on the upper right
side of the disk opening.
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Chapter 4 - How to Use Your Meridian 850
Care and Handling
Write protect notch
Sensing hole
3.5” 1.44MB High Density Floppy Disk
A few things to remember when handling floppy disks:
• Handle disks carefully.
• Don’t remove a disk from a drive while its platter is spinning.
• Don’t touch or scratch any exposed portion of the disk’s shiny
surface, or allow dust or moisture to collect on the disk.
• Store disks at a temperature range between 50-120 degrees F
(10-49C).
• Keep disks away from magnetic fields.
• Format a new disk before you use it for storing data. Before you
begin the format, make sure the disk doesn’t contain anything you
want to save. Formatting a disk will erase all data stored on it.
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Chapter 4 - How to Use Your Meridian 850
Dual PCMCIA Card Slot
Caution:
Don’t install another vendor’s card and socket services over the pre-
installed SystemSoft services. Your Card & Socket Services will
accomodate SRAM cards, a modem on COM2, and ATA Type III hard
drives.
Two Type II
PCMCIA cards
PC Card Ins and Outs
Your system comes with a versatile expansion slot, located on the left side
of your computer. It can accommodate up to two PCMCIA Type I or
Type-II cards, stacked one atop the other, or else a single Type III card. To
insert a PCMCIA card, align the card label-up, with the connector toward
the computer. Carefully slide the card into the slot. To remove a card,
push the card’s eject button. Your system comes with software that allows
most PCMCIA cards to be recognized; however, some third-party cards
may require their own software.
Note: Your system is installed and configured with SystemSoft Card and Socket services.
Please view the Meridian README icon in Windows or the README file in
the \UTILS directory for further information.
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Chapter 4 - How to Use Your Meridian 850
Type II PCMCIA cards can provide your computer with:
• Flash Memory
• LAN
• Fax/Modem
• External Cache Memory
• SCSI
• Sound system
Type III PCMCIA cards can provide your computer with:
• ATA Hard Drives
Note: Before you can use certain PCMCIA cards, you will need to install a client driver
first. See your card’s user manual for more details.
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Chapter 5 - Using SETUP
5. Using SETUP
Your computer has a SETUP utility program that allows you to observe or
change the following system settings:
System time and date
Floppy disk drive type
Hard disk drive type
Video display Selection
Fast Boot Mode
Color Scheme
Sound Chip
Number lock on or off
Boot Device
Cache
Serial and parallel port status
Internal Mouse
LCD Brightness
System Password
Power saving features
Note: SETUP configuration information resides in the battery-powered CMOS RAM.
The battery usually lasts for about five years. If the battery is low, you may
repeatedly get a SETUP error during system startup. If this occurs, call
Customer Service immediately. Do not open the system case yourself.
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Chapter 5 - Using SETUP
Running SETUP
Important:
Before entering SETUP, save your files and exit any applications you
are running. Once you enter SETUP, you will lose all unsaved data
because the system reboots when you exit SETUP.
To run SETUP, press Ctrl+Alt+S either while the system is booting up or
at the DOS prompt.
The SETUP main screen has five menus: Startup, Memory, Disks,
Components, Power, and Exit. You should see a screen similar to the one
above.
Note: SETUP’s bottom panel provides short summaries of the menus and options
currently selected, as well as the keys used for moving and changing values.
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Chapter 5 - Using SETUP
Startup
Both your mouse and your keyboard can operate the SETUP program.
With your mouse (TruePoint or external) you move the pointer to the
desired menu, then single-click on the left mouse button to drop the menu
down. Single-click on the options presented to see the present values or
make changes. The right mouse button will let you cancel selections.
With your keyboard, the <Alt> key highlights a menu, then your
keyboard’s <Left Arrow> and <Right Arrow> keys change menus. <Up
Arrow> and <Down Arrow> keys select each menu’s options, and the
<Enter> key or <Spacebar> activates choices.
Note: SETUP’s bottom panel provides short summaries of the menus and options
currently selected, as well as the keys used for moving and changing values.
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Chapter 5 - Using SETUP
Date and Time
Provides a single window for setting the system date and time. The Date
and Time window lets you specify the date, month, and year as well as the
Hour, Minute, and Second.
Fast Boot
Initializes and quickly boots the system in a few seconds by bypassing
certain diagnostic tests. To fully test the system at power-on time, turn off
Fast Boot. This makes the system perform a more comprehensive test of
the hardware, which makes the bootup process longer. A check mark
indicates Fast Boot is enabled.
Boot Device
Specifies where the system boots from.
Available devices: Diskette A, Hard Disk C, or PCMCIA Card (PCMCIA
SRAM only).
Video Select
Selects the display type that will be used when the system boots up. Avail-
able options from the Video Select menu include: LCD Only, CRT Only, or
Simulscan. LCD Only specifies that a Liquid Crystal Display (or equivalent
panel) is used; CRT specifies that an external Cathode Ray Tube is used;
Simulscan specifies that both an LCD and CRT will be displayed simulta-
neously when the system boots.
LCD Max Brightness
Sets the LCD panel to the maximum brightness.
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Chapter 5 - Using SETUP
Password
Creates passwords at bootup for accessing SETUP values or disabling
current passwords. There are two kinds of password, the bootup password
and SCU (SETUP) password. To create or change these passwords, run
SETUP and select Password under the Startup menu. The following dialog
box appears:
Boot Password
Creates a password to access to the system at bootup, or disables the
current password.
To create or change a password, enter 4 to 8 characters in the text box.
Each character is displayed by an asterisk ( * ). Using the <Tab> key,
highlight Enable password for Boot-up. When you press the <Spacebar>,
an [X] appears. Press <Enter>. Next, reenter the password to verify it,
then, press <Enter>. A message appears stating that the password has been
verified, then tells you to press any key to continue. After the password
dialog box closes, an [X] appears next to the Boot Password menu item.
Note: If you enter the wrong verification password, you’ll have to start again.
Removing the boot-up password
Highlight Enable password for Bootup and press <Spacebar>. The [X]
mark goes away.
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Chapter 5 - Using SETUP
SCU (SETUP) Password
Lets you create or disable the current SETUP password.
To create or change the password, enter 4 to 8 characters in the text box.
Characters will be shown as asterisks ‘ * ‘. With the <Tab> key, highlight
Enable password for SCU changes. When the spacebar is pressed, [X]
appears. Press <Enter> when finished.
When prompted to reenter the password to verify it, do so and press
<Enter>. A message appears stating that the password has been verified,
then tells you to press any key to continue. After the password dialog box
closes, an [X] appears next to the SCU changes option.
Note: If you enter the wrong verification password, you’ll have to start again.
To Remove the SCU changes password
To disable the password, press the <Spacebar> at Enable password for
SCU changes. When the [X] checkbox is cleared, the password is disabled.
Configure SCU (SETUP) Color Scheme
Changes the SETUP color scheme.
Options: Default Colors, Alternate Colors, Monochrome, and Inverse
Mono.
Easy Menus or Complete Menus
Displays all available menu options (Complete Menus) or only the most
commonly used ones (Easy Menus).
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Chapter 5 - Using SETUP
Memory
L1 Cache Enable
Enables or disables the Pentium processor’s internal cache. When enabled,
system performance increases.
L1 Cache Writeback
Sets cache to either writeback mode (faster) or write-through mode.
L2 Cache Enable
Enables or disables the onboard external L2 cache. The computer is typi-
cally faster with L2 cache enabled.
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Chapter 5 - Using SETUP
Disks
Diskette Drive
Configures the diskette drive.
Settings: 1.44MB or Disabled.
Fast Diskette
Reduces ISA bus wait states, making the diskette drive quicker.
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Chapter 5 - Using SETUP
Hard Disk
Configures the Hard Disk Drive 1 (DOS drive C:). Options:
[Disabled]
[Standard]
If no hard drive is installed.
To select a drive type from a standard list of drives.
(44 pre-defined drive types are listed).
[Custom]
[Auto-ID]
To configure a drive not in the standard list.
When selected, you must manually enter the values for
cylinders, heads, sectors per track (SPT), landing zone
(LZone), and write precompensation (Precomp) for the
drive to be recognized.
Attempts to configure the hard drive parameters for any
supported IDE drive.
Fast Hard Disk
Enables or disables the turbo IDE interface. When enabled, your system
can access the hard disk much more quickly.
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Chapter 5 - Using SETUP
Components
COM Ports
Configures the I/O address for the serial (COM) port.
Available settings: COM1 (3F8), COM2 (2F8), COM3 (3E8), COM4
(2E8), or Disable.
LPT Port
Designates the port and the IRQ assignment for the LPT (printer) port.
Available I/O addresses: LPT1 (378h) , LPT2 (278h), or Disabled.
Note: When you enable an LPT Port, it will use IRQ 7.
LPT Type
Specifies the type of LPT port.
Selections include: Standard AT (Centronics), Bidirectional (PS/2), En-
hanced Parallel (EPP), and Extended Capabilities (ECP).
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Chapter 5 - Using SETUP
Keyboard Numlock
Specifies whether Num Lock is on or off at system bootup.
Options: Enabled or disabled.
Keyboard Repeat
Determines how fast a character repeats when a key is held down. Also
specifies the amount of time that will pass after a key is depressed before
repeating begins.
Options: 2, 6, 10, 15, 20, and 30 cps. Key delay selections: 1/4, 1/2, 3/4,
and 1 sec.
Internal Mouse
Enables or disables the internal (TruePoint) pointing device. When dis-
abled, the external mouse port is activated.
Left-Handed Mouse
Switches the functions of the left and right mouse buttons.
Note: If you switch mouse buttons, you’ll have to use the opposite buttons to return to
normal.
Sound Chip
Enables or disables the onboard sound chip. Disable this chip if you use an
external sound card.
Note: This sound system works automatically with Windows, but when installing DOS
games or applications that use DOS Sound Blaster your software must use the
following three hardware settings: I/O Address = 220, IRQ = 5, DMA = 1.
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Chapter 5 - Using SETUP
Power
Enable Power Saving
Enables or disables selected power-saving features. When enabled, your
specific set of features are activated. When disabled, all power-saving
features are deactivated.
Battery Only
Enables power savings only while running on the battery. When disabled,
power saving strategies will operate even while using AC power.
Low Power Saving
Sets power-savings to their lowest level. Result: maximum system perfor-
mance, shortest battery life.
Medium Power Saving
Sets power-savings to a medium level. Result: moderate system perfor-
mance and moderate battery life.
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Chapter 5 - Using SETUP
High Power Saving
Sets power-savings to its highest level. Result: minimum system perfor-
mance, longest battery life.
Custom Power Saving
Lets you choose the Timeout interval for the CPU, Video, Disk, and Global
(all components turned off except memory). You can also have the system
monitor Video Activity. Custom settings override any presets.
Custom Power Saving Settings include:
Item
Available Settings
CPU Timeout
Disabled, 4, 8, 16 seconds
Video Timeout
Disk Timeout
Global Timeout
Disabled, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 16 minutes
Disabled, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 16 minutes
Disabled, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 16 minutes
*Monitor Video Activity Disabled or Enabled
Suspend Controls
These determine when the system enters or awakens from Suspend Mode.
Suspend Timeout: how long the system must be idle before it enters
Suspend Mode (settings: Disabled, 5, 10, 15, 20, 30, 40, 60
minutes).
Low Battery Suspend: suspends the system when it detects a low
battery condition.
Modem Ring Resume: awakens the system after a modem ring is
detected. This allows your system to wait for a call in Suspend
Mode.
Set Resume Alarm: sets an alarm that awakens your system at a
specified time of day.
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Chapter 5 - Using SETUP
Exit
Save and Exit
Saves the current SETUP values and exits the program. The new settings
will not take effect until after the system is rebooted.
Save and Reboot
Saves the new values and reboots the system so they can take effect.
Exit (No Save)
Exits SETUP without saving any changes.
Default Settings
Restores the default settings (the original settings in ROM).
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Chapter 5 - Using SETUP
Restore Settings
Restores the previous set of SETUP values.
Version Info
Displays the current BIOS version information, including version number
and date.
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Chapter 6 - How to Install Options
6. How to Install Options
Right out of the box, your Meridian helps you do your work faster and
easier. And as your needs change, it's easy to add new components to
improve the performance, power, and flexibility of your system.
This section explains how to install some of the most popular computer
accessories. Usually, upgrading your system is as easy as opening the case
and sliding in a new feature.
Caution:
Whenever you work inside the computer, electrostatic discharge can permanently
damage your equipment. Always ground yourself by touching the metal portion of the
rear panel before beginning these procedures. We strongly recommend using an
antistatic wrist strap attached to the “FG Terminal” on the left side of the rear panel.
See illustration in Chapter 2, Back View.
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Chapter 6 - How to Install Options
Installing More RAM
System memory is often called RAM, for Random Access Memory. RAM
is the “thinking space” available to your applications. Usually, the more
system RAM you have, the faster your system will run. Many software
applications simply run much faster and more efficiently when more RAM
is available.
Your system comes with an 8MB RAM module installed, upgradable to
32MB. The two internal slots allow you to add memory with 4MB, 8MB,
or 16MB RAM modules.
Before You Begin...
Select a clean, well lighted work space. Place your system unit on a stable
work surface large enough to accommodate the components of the system
unit you remove and replace.
Caution:
Whenever you work inside the computer, electrostatic discharge can permanently
damage your equipment. Always ground yourself by touching the metal portion of the
rear panel before beginning these procedures. We strongly recommend using an
antistatic wrist strap attached to the “FG Terminal” on the left side of the rear panel.
See illustration in Chapter 2, Back View.
69
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Chapter 6 - How to Install Options
Installing the RAM Board
The RAM board slot is located under the memory board cover, as
illustrated in the figure.
RAM Board
Memory Board Location (cover removed)
Caution:
Whenever you work inside the computer, electrostatic discharge can permanently
damage your equipment. Always ground yourself by touching the metal portion of the
rear panel before beginning these procedures. We strongly recommend using an
antistatic wrist strap attached to the “FG Terminal” on the left side of the rear panel.
See illustration in Chapter 2, Back View.
1. Turn off the power and remove all connecting cables.
2. As you face the computer, turn the system over so the bottom of
the system is facing up.
3. Use a screw driver to free the cover. Take the cover off and set it
aside.
4. Hold the RAM board gently by its edges.
5. Insert the RAM board into the slots as shown in the figure. Press
down gently.
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Chapter 7 - How to Maintain Your System
7. How to Maintain Your
System
Your system is designed for years of rugged, portable use. You’ll get even
more service out of your Meridian by taking good care of your equipment.
Travel Precautions
Follow these steps to prepare the system for travel:
1. Back up important data onto floppy disks.
2. Turn off the power to the system and all peripherals.
3. Make sure that the display is properly closed. The latches on the
side of the system must be secured.
4. Disconnect the AC adapter and all peripherals.
5. Hand carry the system. Do not check it as luggage.
6. Check with the airline if you plan to use the system in-flight.
7. When traveling in another country, check that the local AC voltage
and the AC adapter power cord specifications are compatible. If
not, purchase a power cord that is compatible with the local
voltage. Do not use converter kits sold for appliances to power the
system.
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Chapter 7 - How to Maintain Your System
System Hardware Precautions
• Do not expose the system to rain, liquid, or moisture.
• Do not clean the system with liquid or aerosol cleaners. Wipe the
system with a damp, soft cloth.
• Do not place the system near sources of heat.
• Do not expose the system to extreme temperatures.
• Do not place objects on top of the system. This can damage the
screen.
• Do not expose the system to direct sunlight.
• Do not subject the system to strong vibration or shocks. Be sure
not to drop it.
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Chapter 7 - How to Maintain Your System
AC Adapter Precautions
• Do not connect to any other device.
• Connect the adapter power cord into a grounded power outlet only.
• Contact an electrician if the adapter power cord does not fit into
your outlet.
• Do not set anything on the power cord. Carefully route the power
cord and cables.
Battery Power Pack Precautions
• Turn the power off before removing or replacing the battery pack.
• Do not tamper with the battery pack. Never attempt to open the
case. The pack can ignite if opened. Corrosive chemicals in the
battery can cause chemical burns.
• Dispose of a used battery case promptly and properly according to
local regulations.
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System Specifications
System Specifications
CPU
Intel Pentium running at 75 or 90MHz
Cache
256K external
Memory
ROM: 128KB for system/video
RAM: 8MB or 16MB standard expandable
to 32MB
Video: 1MB
Hard drive
Display
2.5 inch low power consumption IDE
hard drive, 528MB or 1.3GB
10.3” inch diagonal dual-scan color with
800 X 600, 256 colors
9.4” diagonal active matrix color with
640 X 480, 256 colors
Keyboard
84 keys including cursor control (arrow) keys,
embedded numeric pad and 12 function keys
Sound Ports
Speaker-Out:
Mic-In:
Mini-Din jack
Mini-Din jack
Environmental Specifications
Operating Temperature
10°C to 35°C
Storage Temperature
Operating Humidity
Storage Humidity
-10°C to 50°C
40%RH to 80%RH (no condensation)
40% RH to 80% RH (no condensation)
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System Specifications
Dimensions
Weight
Case
DSTN/TFT Color:
6.8 lbs. with battery
DSTN/TFT: 11.7 (w) X 8.9 (d) X 1.9 (h) inch
259 (w) X 198 (d) X 42 (h) mm
Battery Pack Specifications
Type
6-cell rechargeable nickel-metal hydride
Voltage
7.2V DC
Capacity
2600 mAh
Ambient temperature
-10 to 40C short term
-10 to 30C long term
Dimensions
Weight
10.87 (w) x 1.61 (d) x 0.81 (h) inch
276 (w) x 40.8 (d) x 20.5 (h) mm
1.03 lbs (470g)
AC Adapter Specifications
Input
90 to 240V AC, 50/60Hz, 0.6A maximum
Output
11.5V DC, 2.4A
Dimensions
2.6 (w) X 5.4 (d) X 1.5 (h) inch
66 (w) X 137 (d) X 38 (h) mm
Weight
.79 lbs (360g)
DC Cable length
70.9 inch (1,800mm)
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Handy Cheat Sheet
Handy Cheat Sheet
Here are some of the most often needed (and forgotten) notes.
CTRL + ALT + DEL....................................................... Warm Reboot
Reset button, or
Power button ...................................................................... Cold Reboot
CTRL + ALT + S...........................................................Access SETUP
CTRL + BREAK, or
CTRL + C .......................... Pause or Break an application or batch file
DOS Commands
COPY [filename] [drive:] [path] [newfilename]................. copies a file
FORMAT [drive:] ........................................... erases and formats a disk
DIR [drive:] [path]........... lists the files in a certain drive and directory
DEL [filename]................................................................... deletes a file
MD [newdirectory] ............................................. makes a new directory
RD [directoryname] ........... removes and erases an empty, old directory
RENAME [oldfilename] [newfilename] ..........................renames a file
CHKDSK [drive:].............................. displays a status report for a disk
CD [path] .............................................. changes to a different directory
CLS ............................................................................... clears the screen
Common DOS file extensions
.BAK backup file
.BAT......................................................................................... batch file
.COM ................................................................. command program file
.EXE ................................................................. executable program file
.SYS ....................................................................................... system file
.INI............................................................... Windows initialization file
.PIF ................................................. Windows program information file
README files ................................. text files with special instructions
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Handy Cheat Sheet
Handy Cheat Sheet
Windows Shortcuts
Ctrl-C .......................................................................... copy to clipboard
Ctrl-V.................................................. paste or copy from the clipboard
Ctrl-X......................................................... delete and copy to clipboard
Alt-Tab............................................... toggle between open applications
Alt-Esc .................................................... jump to next open application
Wildcards - wildcards are special characters that can represent any other
valid numbers, letters, or symbols in a file name.
The asterisk represents any number of other characters up
to the DOS limit of eight.
For example:
*
*.BAK would represent any file with the extension BAK.
GONOW.* would represent all files named GONOW
with any extension.
The question mark represents any single character.
For example:
?
GONOW.?XE would represent any file named GONOW
with an extension ending in XE.
?ONOW.EX? would represent any five character
filename ending in ONOW with EX as the first two
characters of its extension.
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Glossary
Glossary
This glossary provides general definitions of key terms. For an expanded
list look in standard reference books on computers.
Active Matrix - Flat screen technology that
card. DIP switch settings control various
controls each pixel with an individual transistor.
functions and provide a system with information
about itself. DIP stands for Dual In-Line Package.
Address (Physical) - A specific location in
memory where a unit record, or sector, of data is
stored.
Directory - A list of the files stored on a disk or
a part of a disk. Sometimes called a Folder.
Application Program - Computer program that
actually performs a useful task. Word processors,
spreadsheets, and desktop publishing programs are
application programs.
Disk Drive - The physical device which allows
the computer to read from and write to a disk. A
floppy disk drive has a disk slot into which you
insert floppy disks. A hard disk drive is
permanently fixed inside the system unit.
AUTOEXEC.BAT File -An MS-DOS batch file
containing commands which execute
automatically when you turn on your computer.
DOS - Disk Operating System. A computer
program which continuously runs and mediates
between the computer user and the Application
Program, and allows access to disk data by disk
filenames. The Disk Operating System controls
the computer’s input and output functions. See
Operating System.
Batch File - A file containing several commands
that execute in sequence as a group, or batch. MS-
DOS batch files must have a filename extension of
.BAT.
Boot - Short for Bootstrap. Transfer of a disk
operating system program from storage on floppy
disk or hard disk drive to computer’s working
memory. Now refers generally to the system
initialization process.
DSTN- Dual Scan Twisted Nematic. By dividing
the screen in two, then refreshing both sides
simultaneously, this technique offers a sharper
picture than conventional passive matrix screens.
ECP - Extended Capabilities Port. Parallel port
with an asynchronous, byte-wide, bidirectional
data flow. It can also distinguish between
commands and data.
Boot Disk - A disk with an operating system
installed which loads itself into RAM on power up.
Character - Anything that can print in a single
space on the page or the screen. Includes numbers,
letters, punctuation marks, and graphic symbols.
EPP - Enhanced Parallel Port. Parallel port with
an asynchronous, byte-wide, bidirectional
channel, plus separate address and data cycles
over the eight data lines of the interface.
Command Processor - The part of an operating
system that processes commands entered by you.
The command processor in MS-DOS is contained
in the COMMAND.COM file.
File - A group of related pieces of information
called records, or entries, stored together on disk.
Text files consist of words and sentences.
Program files consist of codes and are used by
computers to interpret and carry out instructions.
CPU - Central Processing Unit. The piece of
hardware which interprets instructions, performs
the tasks you indicate, keeps track of stored data,
and controls all input and output operations.
Floppy disk - A flat piece of flexible plastic
coated with magnetic material and used to store
data permanently.
Crash - A malfunction in the computer hardware
or software, usually causing loss of data.
Cursor - The arrow, vertical I-beam or other
screen object that shows where you can click to
select something onscreen. See Insertion point.
Format - To prepare a new disk (or erase an old
one) so it can receive information. Formatting a
disk divides it into tracks and sectors which
create addressable locations on it.
Diagnostics - Tests and procedures the computer
performs to check its internal circuitry and set up
its configuration.
Hard Disk Drive - Sometimes called rigid disk
drives, or fixed disk drives. Unlike floppy disks,
hard disks are fixed in place inside the system
unit. They can process data faster and store many
DIP Switches - Small switches on a piece of
hardware such as a CPU, a printer, or an option
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Glossary
Glossary
IDE - Integrated Drive Electronics. An IDE drive
has the controller electronics built into the drive
itself and is connected directly to the mainboard
or to an adapter card.
Port - A physical input/output socket on a computer
where you can connect a peripheral.
more files than floppy disks.
RAM - Random Access Memory. The part of memory
that a computer can both read and write to. The
programs you use are temporarily stored in RAM. All
data stored in RAM is erased when you turn off the
power.
Insertion point - A blinking vertical marker
which shows where you can type words or
numbers. Also called Text Cursor. See Cursor.
Read - To copy data from one area to another. For
example, when you open a text file stored on disk, the
computer reads the data from the disk and displays it
on the screen.
Jumper - A small electrical connector that alters
some of the computer’s functions. Short (makes a
connection) or Non-Short (no connection).
Reset - To reload a computer’s operating system so
you can retry a task or begin using a different
operating system. Resetting clears RAM.
Kilobyte (KB) - A unit used to measure storage
space (in a computer’s memory or on a disk).
One kilobyte equals 1024 bytes.
ROM - Read Only Memory. A portion of memory that
can only be read and cannot be used for temporary
storage. ROM retains its contents even when you turn
off the power.
LED - Light Emitting Diode. A diode that
illuminates when electricity passes through it,
like the indicator lights on the front panel of the
computer.
Self Test - The initial diagnostics procedures a system
performs to check its hardware.
Local Bus - A set of addresses, data, and control
signals that interface directly with the host CPU.
SETUP - This refers (usually) to the program that is
used to load the CMOS data base with input from the
user. SETUP sets the date, time, and configuration of
disk drives installed on the system.
Mainboard - A printed circuit board into which
other circuit boards can be plugged. Usually, it
contains the CPU, connectors for memory
(SIMMs), secondary cache, SCSI host adapter
socket and expansion slots for add-on boards.
Also known as a motherboard.
Software - The programs that enable your computer
to perform the tasks and functions you indicate.
Application programs are software.
Memory - The area where your computer stores
data. Memory contents can be permanent and
unalterable (ROM) or temporary (RAM).
Subdirectory - A directory that originates from
another directory (the root directory or some other
directory). Subdirectories branch out from other
directories.
MHz - This stands for Megahertz, or cycles per
second.
System Disk - A disk that contains the operating
system. A Boot Disk.
Operating System - A collection of programs
that allow a computer to control its operations.
The Operating System determines how programs
run on the computer and supervises all input and
output - for example, MS-DOS.
TFT - Thin-Film Transistor. A tiny transistor that
controls the brightness of a single red, green or blue
dot (pixel) in an active matrix display.
Write - To store data on a disk.
Parallel - The type of interface which transmits
data in groups of bits. Printers usually use
Parallel ports.
Write-Protect - To prevent a floppy disk from being
overwritten by placing a write-protect tab over the
notch on the side of the floppy disk (5.25") or setting
the write-protect switch (3.5"). When a floppy disk is
write-protected, you cannot erase, change, or record
over its contents.
PCMCIA - Personal Computer Memory Card
International Association. A nonprofit trade
association formed to standardize miniature PC
expansion cards.
ZEOS - Greek God of computers.
Peripheral - A device (such as, a printer or a
modem) connected to a computer that depends
on the computer for its operation.
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Index
Index
A
K
AC Adapter Precautions 44
Key Combinations 28
Keyboard 24
Keypad, numeric 27
B
Battery 32
L
Endurance 35
how to charge 38
how to install 33
how to remove 34
precautions 43
LCD Display 46
Low Battery Warnings 36
M
C
Memory 59
Mouse
Buttons 16
Charging the Battery 38
Condensation 13
Connectors 21
how to use 47
N
D
Numeric Keypad 27
Disk Drives 29
DOS
O
Commands 76
File Extensions 76
Options
how to install 68
E
P
Embedded Numeric Keypad 27
External Keyboard 48
Packing Slip 11
PCMCIA Card
Eject Buttons 19
Slot 31, 51
Power
Button 19
External Monitor 48
I
Indicator Lights 22, 23
Installing
Management Parameters 64
Saving 41
More RAM 69
the RAM Board 70
PS/2 Style Mouse 47
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Index
Index
R
RAM
how to install 69
Removable Hard Disk Drive 29
Reset Switch 19
S
Serial Mouse 47
SETUP
how to run 54
Power Management Parameters 64
SETUP Utility 53
Sound Chip 63
Sound Features 22
Speaker Volume 28
Suspend/Resume Button 16
System
how to maintain 71
how to open 45
System Specifications 74
T
Travel Precautions 71
TruePoint™ Pointing Device 46
U
Unpacking 11
W
Where to set up 14
700-0219-00
M850
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Late Changes
Following is a list of changes that arrived too late for printing.
p.2: Copyright now Micron Electronics.
p.7-8: Updated Table of Contents.
p.15: Mainboard Features now shows 75 and 90MHz for CPU; Hard
disk drives now available in 1.3GB; Now Windows NT certified.
p.22: Updated instructions for setting sound system parameters for
games and applications.
p.46: Added an LCD Display section.
p.48: Added a table on external video resolutions.
p.63: Udated the Note on setting sound system parameters for DOS
games and applications.
p.74: System Specifications now shows 75 and 90MHz CPU support;
Hard disk drives now available in 1.3GB.
p.80-1: Updated index.
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