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48

Solving software problems

Solving software problems

If the problem is...

Here’s what to do...

Computer does not go on 
Standby

The following steps can be tried on systems that exit 
Standby when the system detects motion of the 
keyboard, mouse or drives:

1

Make sure you don’t touch the mouse or keyboard, 
and don’t start a program that involves using the 
modem or drives. These activities reset the timer.

2

Make sure you leave the mouse on a surface that 
does not vibrate. Leaving the mouse on top of your 
computer or on top of another machine may reset the 
timer before the set time has elapsed.

3

Allow a few minutes more than the specified time. 
Windows periodically accesses the hard disk drive for 
memory swapping and this activity resets the timer. 
Windows might access the hard disk drive for a short 
time after you last touched your computer.

4

Try disabling AutoPlay of the CD or DVD drives. When 
AutoPlay is enabled, the Power Management 
software may detect activity in the CD or DVD drive 
and keep the computer from going on Standby. For 
information about CD and DVD drive checking, see 
the Configuration topic in the Aptiva online help.

Periodically use the IBM Update Connector to look for 
available updates for the software that came from the factory 
with your computer. For information about the IBM Update 
Connector, see the Aptiva online help.

If any of these problems continue after taking the actions 
listed, run the diagnostics programs that came with your 
computer. If you need service, see “HelpWare support and 
services” on page 79.

66xarg.book : 66xach3.fm  Page 48  Tuesday, June 30, 1998  10:18 AM

Summary of Contents for Aptiva

Page 1: ...Aptiva Reference Guide...

Page 2: ...nical inaccuracies or typographical errors Changes are periodically made to the information herein these changes will be made in later editions IBM may make improvements and or changes in the product...

Page 3: ...5 Readme files 25 Instructions for installing and replacing hardware 25 Handling discs 26 Installing programs 29 Troubleshooting 31 Diagnosing and recovering from problems 32 Quick step guide 33 Some...

Page 4: ...o first 84 How do I get help electronically 86 How and when do I contact the IBM PC HelpCenter 90 How and when do I purchase additional support 95 Adding and removing hardware 97 Preparing to work wit...

Page 5: ...Notices...

Page 6: ...2...

Page 7: ...erification of operation in conjunction with other products except those expressly designated by IBM are the user s responsibility IBM may have patents or pending patent applications covering subject...

Page 8: ...mation you might find especially useful The information may also warn you about possible problems you could encounter Attention This symbol is used when there is important information that can help yo...

Page 9: ...k or double click Bold font is also used in headings table titles and numbered lists Example Example font is used to show text that you need to type from your keyboard Italic Italic font is used to sh...

Page 10: ...follow these steps Connect your computer only to an electrical outlet of the correct voltage If you are unsure about the voltage of the electrical outlet you are using contact your local power compan...

Page 11: ...ecting your computer To connect your computer 1 Turn off the computer and any component you are going to attach to it that may have its own power switch 2 Attach cords such as a monitor cord to the co...

Page 12: ...at during normal operation there is no exposure to laser radiation above Class 1 level Please note that the CD ROM DVD ROM drive does not contain any user adjustable or serviceable parts Service on th...

Page 13: ...er than those specified herein might result in hazardous radiation exposure Removing the covers of the CD ROM DVD ROM drive could result in exposure to hazardous laser radiation There are no serviceab...

Page 14: ...minitower system refer to Opening a minitower system unit on page 98 for instructions on how to open the system unit If you have a microtower system refer to Opening a microtower system on page 98 for...

Page 15: ...800 772 2227 for repair warranty information The telephone company may ask you to disconnect this equipment from the network until the problem has been corrected or until you are sure the equipment i...

Page 16: ...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 ci...

Page 17: ...ations Cet appareil num rique de la classe B respecte toutes les exigences du R glement sur le mat riel brouilleur du Canada European Community Directive Conformance statement This product is in confo...

Page 18: ...14 Regulatory notices...

Page 19: ...Ergonomics...

Page 20: ...16...

Page 21: ...hout stretching or leaning over to one side The system unit is usually kept on the floor under or beside your desk Be sure to place it in an area that will not block the space you need to put your leg...

Page 22: ...the monitor near a window consider using curtains or blinds to minimize glare from sunlight Also be sure to keep the monitor perpendicular to the windows to reduce glare when the curtains or blinds a...

Page 23: ...choose to use it do not rest your hands on the wristrest or desktop while you are typing Instead use the wristrest only when resting If you prefer not to use the wristrest you may remove it and use t...

Page 24: ...20 Arranging a comfortable and productive work area...

Page 25: ...Aptiva Online Help and Software...

Page 26: ...22...

Page 27: ...an find this information in the Start menu For other systems you can find this information through the Access Aptiva area on your Aptiva customized desktop When upgrading hardware or working with the...

Page 28: ...ernet Sending e mail Maintaining the computer Updating software Recovering from problems Upgrading hardware If you are going to add or remove hardware in your computer you should read and print the re...

Page 29: ...f you decide to upgrade or replace hardware components in your Aptiva PC you will need to print the instructions for the hardware you want to work with Your computer came with information that is loca...

Page 30: ...he Windows Start menu Some entertainment programs that may have come with your computer may contain language not suitable for children The Entertainment Software Review Board ESRB has reviewed many so...

Page 31: ...Aptiva Installer by clicking the Windows Start button then selecting Aptiva Installer 3 Click the Install New Program tab 4 Click the Find Install Program button 5 Aptiva Installer recognizes and dis...

Page 32: ...28 Installing programs...

Page 33: ...Troubleshooting...

Page 34: ...30...

Page 35: ...rmation contained in this chapter is intended for several models of the Aptiva Personal Computer The computer you purchased may not have some of the hardware discussed in these sections If your comput...

Page 36: ...the computer pass the test Yes No Yes added software Refer to Solving software problems on page 48 No did not add hardware or software Refer to Some simple questions to ask first on page 33 Remove the...

Page 37: ...may not be available for all computers 3 Make sure the system unit and monitor cables are correctly and securely connected Make sure the system unit and monitor power cords are plugged into electrical...

Page 38: ...will beep several times in a 2 long beeps 3 short beeps sequence Reinstall the memory modules If you hear a beep sequence other than the 2 long 3 short beeps or if the memory modules are installed co...

Page 39: ...image is scrolling blinking or flashing You may have selected a monitor setting that your monitor does not support Follow these steps to reconfigure your monitor a Restart the computer If necessary t...

Page 40: ...r computer may take a little longer than usual to restart The colors displayed are wrong Make sure the monitor cable is correctly and securely connected to the system unit The Setup Poster shows how t...

Page 41: ...he monitor cable is properly connected to the new video adapter card and b the BIOS is configured to use the adapter card as the primary video adapter For information about BIOS options see the Config...

Page 42: ...press the On Off button on the front of the system unit 2 Make sure that the system unit and monitor power cords are securely plugged into electrical outlets 3 Make sure that the cables are correctly...

Page 43: ...the Num Lock light will remain on during and after the Power On Self Test POST 2 Make sure that you typed the correct password 3 Make sure the keyboard cable is correctly and securely connected to th...

Page 44: ...he information on the good diskette CD DVD or Zip disk there may be a problem with your drive 5 Make sure the power and signal cables are securely attached to the back of the drive For instructions on...

Page 45: ...ives see the Aptiva online help 7 Make sure the correct diskette drive is selected and the diskette drive is enabled in the Setup Utility For information about Setup Utility options see the Aptiva onl...

Page 46: ...rely attached to the back of the hard disk drive in the system unit 4 Insert the Product Recovery disc into the CD or DVD drive and press Ctrl Alt Delete Follow the instructions on the screen to resto...

Page 47: ...t notification check box to add a check to the box 8 Click OK Keyboard doesn t work or only some keys work 1 Make sure the keyboard cable is correctly and securely connected to the keyboard port not t...

Page 48: ...s a Turn off the computer b Disconnect the mouse cable from the system unit c Turn the mouse upside down Unlock the retainer on the bottom of the mouse by turning it counterclockwise Now turn the mous...

Page 49: ...entation for your communications software 4 Make sure no one is using the telephone while you are communicating with another computer 5 If some communications programs work but others do not there may...

Page 50: ...the print material ink ribbon or toner are loaded correctly 7 Turn off the printer and computer and wait 15 seconds Then turn on the printer first followed by the computer 8 If you are printing from W...

Page 51: ...in the Aptiva online help 11If you have other devices connected to the parallel port disconnect them and connect only the printer Try to print again 12Avoid using a printer cable that is more than 6...

Page 52: ...ses the hard disk drive for memory swapping and this activity resets the timer Windows might access the hard disk drive for a short time after you last touched your computer 4 Try disabling AutoPlay o...

Page 53: ...the Setup Power Management menu is set to Suspend and the system does not turn off when you press the power button for more than four seconds If running Windows check the Power Management utility of t...

Page 54: ...tandby The computer won t take a message out of Standby 1 Check the Wake Up On Ring cable from the modem to the system board to ensure it is securely attached not all systems require this cable 2 The...

Page 55: ...ings see the online help files that came with the operating system 4 Make sure the monitor cable is correctly and securely connected to the system unit 5 If another monitor is available connect it to...

Page 56: ...e problem is corrected something may be wrong with your monitor Flickering or unsteady picture on monitor screen 1 Select display settings for a lower resolution fewer colors or a higher refresh rate...

Page 57: ...r cable is correctly and securely connected to the system unit 3 Make sure the system unit and monitor power cords are securely plugged into electrical outlets 4 Make sure the system and monitor are t...

Page 58: ...not use Windows sound features and must be configured to use SoundBlaster Pro or SoundBlaster emulation You don t hear sound when you play DOS games or use DOS programs 1 Make sure the game or program...

Page 59: ...tions program is configured correctly The following settings are suggested for compatibility Modem type Generic Hayes type modem Hayes compatible error correcting Hayes compatible high speed User defi...

Page 60: ...you try to use the modem your computer or modem is unable to detect a dial tone 1 Make sure the telephone line is correctly connected to your computer For instructions on connecting your computer to t...

Page 61: ...io while playing DVD movie 1 Check the volume control settings in Windows or on your speakers 2 Make sure that the disc surface is clean and not scratched 3 Check all cable connections to and from the...

Page 62: ...rvice Press Esc to turn off NMI or other key to reboot 1 Press Esc to turn off the Non Maskable Interrupt NMI and proceed to boot the system 2 Press any other key to reboot the system For information...

Page 63: ...icating the device with an error First find the device error message in this table and do the corresponding action 2 Enter Setup and change the required settings For information on the Setup Utility o...

Page 64: ...rface Error 1 Plug in the keyboard properly and reboot the system 2 If the error still shows after doing option 1 change your keyboard It may be defective 648 Floppy Drive s Write Protected 1 Make sur...

Page 65: ...1 Remove all the add on cards in the system 2 Power on the system to see if it works without the cards 3 Re install the cards one by one to determine which of the cards caused the error 4 After deter...

Page 66: ...s 1 Remove all the add on cards in the system 2 Power on the system to see if it works without the cards 3 Re install the cards one by one to determine which of the cards caused the error 4 After dete...

Page 67: ...age 71 1781 IDE Primary Channel Slave Drive Error 1 Make sure the IDE signal cable is properly connected to the drive and to the system board 2 Make sure the drive power cable is properly connected 3...

Page 68: ...properly connected 3 Enter Setup and make sure that the IDE Secondary Channel Slave parameter is set to Auto For information on the Setup Utility options see the Aptiva online help 4 If the error sti...

Page 69: ...e it under the Input Output Ports menu in Setup For information on the Setup Utility options see the Aptiva online help 1803 Memory Resource Conflict s 1 Enter Setup and set the Reset Resource Assignm...

Page 70: ...or information on the Setup Utility options see the Aptiva online help 8601 8603 PS 2 Pointing Device Interface Error 1 Make sure that the mouse is plugged in the PS 2 mouse port then reboot the syste...

Page 71: ...the operating system configuration files you should copy the original directory structure When you reinstall the files you must put them into the original directory structure If you do not the compute...

Page 72: ...r the Aptiva software has been reinstalled copy your personal configuration and data files back into their original directories on the hard disk drive If you need to use the Product Recovery disc you...

Page 73: ...Setup Utility...

Page 74: ...70...

Page 75: ...p Using the Setup Utility The Setup Utility lets you view and change configuration settings for hardware installed in your computer You might need to use the Setup Utility if you upgrade the hardware...

Page 76: ...ormation because they contain information about the system Other options let you control how your computer operates For example you can use the Setup Utility to Create or change a power on password Re...

Page 77: ...are programs 2 Click the Start button on your Windows desktop 3 Click the Shut Down option 4 From the Shut Down Windows window click Restart the computer and then click the Yes button 5 When the follo...

Page 78: ...ity 3 When the following screen appears press the F1 key The Setup Utility Main Menu appears Note The Main Menu you see on your computer may look slightly different from the menu shown here but it wil...

Page 79: ...these arrow keys to make a selection and change an option s setting On some menus you can use these keys to move from one field to another Enter Press this key to choose a highlighted option from a m...

Page 80: ...etup Main Menu Like in the System Information menu the items displayed are not configurable Changing parameter settings In the Setup menus all configuration information that you can change is enclosed...

Page 81: ...ollowing instances when you replace the system battery when you customize your system configuration settings and some resource assignments conflict causing the computer to stop responding Exiting Setu...

Page 82: ...78 Using the Setup Utility...

Page 83: ...HelpWare support and services...

Page 84: ...80...

Page 85: ...m 30 day Up and Running support to help with popular programs IBM HelpWare has a variety of services and solutions for you These options are available from IBM whenever you need help for as long as yo...

Page 86: ...ion The documentation that came with your computer contains information about troubleshooting hardware and software problems This information begins with the quick step by step guide on page 32 which...

Page 87: ...olve problems or find answers to your questions Diagnostics Your computer came with a diagnostic program which can help identify problems you may have with your computer You can run the PC Doctor diag...

Page 88: ...BM Aptiva PC support home page you can search for technical tips download update drivers and find out about many other things You can visit the IBM Aptiva PC support internet site at this URL http www...

Page 89: ...ently asked questions You might find some of these topics on a BBS PC user groups PC questions and answers Problem solving Technical information You can reach the IBM Personal Systems Group BBS 24 hou...

Page 90: ...that it can be frustrating This document contains several problem solving options you can use See the Quick step guide on page 32 for troubleshooting information before you call the IBM PC HelpCenter...

Page 91: ...ogram is successfully loaded so that you can start the program Support for your how to questions about software programs is available for a fee For more information see How and when do I purchase addi...

Page 92: ...page 90 Before you call The information in the following three steps will provide the IBM PC HelpCenter technical support representative with valuable information that will assist him her when handli...

Page 93: ...roblem exact wording of any error messages hardware and software configuration information for your system If your call is not covered by 30 day Up and Running support or the Limited Warranty you may...

Page 94: ...formation to you such as sales information product brochures locations of IBM resellers services available through IBM If you need help with a specific program or if you need help after your warranty...

Page 95: ...company will bill you by the minute for each call Persons under age 18 must have permission of a parent or legal guardian prior to placing the call Flat rate You may call the 919 number to purchase s...

Page 96: ...expires one year from the date of purchase An incident is a request for telephone assistance about a single question or problem An incident may involve multiple conversations or actions which may incl...

Page 97: ...the United States 1 Call 1 800 426 3395 2 Select option 1 3 Select option 1 4 Enter one of the following document numbers For a brochure enter 11690 and press the key For a supported products list en...

Page 98: ...94 How and when do I purchase additional support In all other countries contact your IBM reseller or IBM marketing representative...

Page 99: ...Adding and removing hardware...

Page 100: ...96...

Page 101: ...with the computer Before you make any changes to hardware in your computer you must turn off and unplug the computer To disconnect 1 Turn off the computer and any attached component which may have it...

Page 102: ...unlocked icon 2 Slip your hand underneath the front panel reach for the handle and pull it to fully release the cover 3 Slide the cover forward to remove it completely The cover slides along the groo...

Page 103: ...an inch to release the right side of the panel 2 Use both hands to pull the bay panel and remove it completely from the front panel 3 Push back the metal bay cover to a 90 degree angle Note Write down...

Page 104: ...100 Adding and removing drives 4 Insert the drive into the bay 5 Align the screw holes and secure the drive with four screws 6 Connect the power and signal cables...

Page 105: ...wer drive bay 1 Disconnect the cables from the existing drive 2 Remove the 3 5 inch drive bay from the housing by pressing the tab on top and pivoting the drive bay outward Note When installing drives...

Page 106: ...h disk drive then secure it with four screws on the sides 4 Re install the drive bay into the housing as in the following figure a Align the drive bay with the notch b Pivot the drive bay toward the h...

Page 107: ...moving hardware To remove the drive To remove a drive from a specific bay reverse the steps for installing a drive in that bay Installing or removing drives in a microtower system To install a drive i...

Page 108: ...04 Adding and removing drives 2 Remove the metal bay cover 3 Insert a drive into the empty drive bay 4 Align the screw holes and secure the drive with four screws 5 Connect the power and signal cables...

Page 109: ...nstall a drive in the lower drive bay 1 1 Remove the 3 5 inch drive bay from the housing by pressing the tab on top and pivoting the drive bay outward Note When installing drives in the lower drive ba...

Page 110: ...the drive bay carefully insert a 3 5 inch disk drive then secure it with four screws on the sides 4 Re install the drive bay into the housing as in the following figure a Align the drive bay with the...

Page 111: ...removing drives 107 Adding and removing hardware 5 Connect the signal and power cables to the drive To remove the drive To remove a drive from a specific bay reverse the steps for installing a drive i...

Page 112: ...your system board you will need to print the instructions for the hardware You can find these instructions in the Aptiva Helps on the hard disk drive Minitower system board The minitower system comes...

Page 113: ...MM 2 DIMM 3 System memory module sockets CN4 Parallel serial and VGA connectors FN1 5 pin power supply fan connector CN5 MIDI line in line out and mic in connectors FN2 2 pin power supply fan connecto...

Page 114: ...g system board components Microtower system board The microtower system comes with a system board that looks just like the figure below The following page lists the functions of all the labeled items...

Page 115: ...HDD LED pins 1 2 3 power LED connectors CN14 Fax voice modem connector CN3 PS 2 mouse and keyboard connectors CN15 CD ROM audio connector CN4 ATX power connector DIMM 1 DIMM 2 System memory module soc...

Page 116: ...112 Identifying system board components...

Page 117: ...d DVDs 25 hardware adding and removin 97 111 configuration 71 solving hardware problems 38 specifications See Aptiva online help testing See Aptiva online help hardware problems HelpWare service and s...

Page 118: ...nd DVDs 25 installing and replacing hardware 25 installing programs 26 27 P power button switch 33 power button See Aptiva online help problems audio multimedia and modem 54 56 can t use second modem...

Page 119: ...hock 6 replacement parts 6 telephone connection 6 service and support 81 94 setting up your computer 17 19 chair 17 keyboard position 19 monitor position 18 mouse position 19 setup utility 69 78 chang...

Page 120: ...ailed 65 1802 I O resource conflict s 65 1803 memory resource conflict s 65 1962 insert system diskette and press to reboot message 66 201 memory error 60 301 PS 2 keyboard error 60 303 PS 2 Keyboard...

Page 121: ...ady picture 52 white screen 52 yellow cyan magenta screen 52 questions to ask first 33 beeps 34 47 monitor 35 37 power lights 33 recovering factory installedprograms and files 67 software computer doe...

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