IBM ThinkPad 380 or 380D User's Guide

Note
Before using this information and the product it supports, be sure to read the general information under "Notices".

First Edition (March 1997)

The following paragraph does not apply to the United Kingdom or any country where such provisions are inconsistent with local law: 
INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION PROVIDES THIS PUBLICATION "AS IS" WITHOUT ANY WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE LIMITED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. Some states do not allow disclaimers or express or implied warranties in certain transactions; therefore, this statement may not apply to you.

This publication could include technical inaccuracies or typographical errors. Changes are periodically made to the information herein; these changes will be incorporated in new editions of the publication. IBM may make improvements or changes in the products or the programs described in this publication at any time.

Requests for technical information about IBM products should be made to your IBM Authorized Dealer or your IBM Marketing Representative. © Copyright International Business Machines Corporation 1997. All rights reserved. Note to U.S. Government Users - Documentation related to restricted rights - Use, duplication or disclosure is subject to restrictions set forth in GSA ADP Schedule Contract with IBM Corp.

Distinctive System Features of the IBM ThinkPad 380 or 380D computer

SVGA Color LCD:

reference #34.
Both the DSTN (dual-scan super-twisted nematic) and TFT (thin-film transistor) display models offer 65,536 colors at 800-by-600 resolution, for a colorful and clear picture.

Infrared Communication:

reference #38.
An infrared port is supplied with your computer for wireless serial communication.

ThinkPad Features Program:

reference #15.
The ThinkPad Features program is a graphical user interface (or set of commands) that allows you to easily set various parameters.

Power Management:

reference #57.
The computer comes with software that allows you to extend battery life by reducing power usage throughout the computer system. It also provides a resume function, which is faster than computer power-on, quickly returning you to where you left off.

Security Features:

reference #65.
You can set passwords or use locks to secure your computer. The Personalization Utilities are also provided, which is a program that allows you to identify your computer.

PC Card Support:

reference #35.
The computer provides two PC Card slots that accept a 16-bit PC Card and a software that makes using PC Cards easy.

TrackPoint III:

reference #11.
Pointing, selecting, and dragging all become part of a single process without your needing to lift your hands from the keyboard.

Fn Key Function:

reference #12.
Controlling display output type or saving battery power is easily set with the combination of the Fn key with a function key (F1-F12).

Audio Support Features:

reference #40.
The audio support is compatible with Sound Blaster **  with various audio features for your entertainment.

Where to Find Information

What would you like to do with your computer? The following gives you a shortcut to where you can find information in this book. Find the topic that interests you; then follow the arrow!

• Setting up the computer
  reference #3.

• Installing options
  Chapter 6.

• Installing PC Cards
  "Installing a PC Card".

  • Using the PC Card software
    "Using the PC Card Support Software".

• Using the ThinkPad features program
  reference #15.

• Creating the backup diskettes using utility programs.
  reference #5.

• Reinstalling the operating system
  Chapter 7.

• Changing the system resource setting
  Appendix A.

• Attaching an external display
  "Attaching an External Monitor".

• Using the infrared communication feature
  reference #38.

• Using the audio feature
  reference #39

• Frequently asked question
  reference #111.

• Troubleshooting
  reference #114.

• How to receive IBM Customer Support and Service
  "How to receive Customer Support and Service".

• Preserving battery-pack life
  reference #53.

• Using battery power-management function
  reference #56.

• Using passwords
  reference #66.

• Using locks
  reference #76.
  

  About This Book

  Note:
  The illustrations in this book might be slightly different from your computer.

  This book contains information that will help you operate the IBM ThinkPad 380 or 380D computer (hereafter called the 380, 380D, or computer). Be sure to read "Getting Started" and "Getting Familiar with Your Computer" before using the computer. Read from Chapter 3 on whenever you need to.

  • "Getting Started", provides information about how to set up your computer.

  • "Getting Familiar with Your Computer", acquaints you with the basic features of your computer.

  • "Operating Your Computer", provides information on using your computer's different features.

  • "Using Battery Power", provides power management information and describes how to operate your computer with the battery pack.

  • "Protecting Your Computer", provides information for protecting your computer.

  • "Installing and Removing Options", describes how to install or remove IBM options.

  • "Installing Software", provides procedures for installing operating systems and device drivers in your computer.

  • "Solving Computer Problems", describes what to do when you have a computer problem.

  • Appendix A. "Avoiding Hardware Conflicts", lists some steps you can take to avoid problems when you add or remove options.

  • Appendix B. "Advanced Information for PC Cards for OS/2 Warp", provides additional information when using PC Cards.

  • Appendix C. "Using PS2 Commands", provides the PS2 commands for the ThinkPad Features program.

  • Appendix D. "Features and Specifications", describes the features and specifications associated with your computer.

  • Appendix E. "Product Warranties and Notices", contains the warranty statements for your computer and notices for this book.

  The glossary defines terms appearing in this book.

  Viewing the Online Book

   

  You can view this book online to easily retrieve information about the computer when you are traveling.

  Note: The online book is not available in all countries.

  To start the online book, select the Online Book icon in Microsoft **  Windows **  95.

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  Information Notices

  This book contains notices that relate to specific information or text.
  
  
  
  

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  Treatment of Icons

  This book contains the following icons (symbols):

  • For procedures or information unique to the operating system installed in your computer:

    • Information for IBM Operating System/2 (OS/2) users.

    • Information for IBM DOS users.

    • Information for Microsoft Windows Version 3.11 users.

    • Information for Microsoft Windows 95 users.

    • Information for Microsoft Windows NT Workstation users.

  • For procedures or information unique to the computer model or type:

    • Information only for the 380D.

  • For information referred to:

    • Where to go for more information.

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  Ergonomics Information

   

  This is important information to read before using your ThinkPad computer in the virtual office.

  Working in the virtual office may mean adapting to frequent changes in your environment. Following some simple "rules of the road" will make things easier and bring you the maximum benefits of your ThinkPad computer. Keeping in mind such basics as good lighting and proper seating, for example, can go a long way in helping you enhance
  
  

  Note:
  The example shown here of someone in a traditional setting. Even when not in such a setting, you can follow many of these tips. Develop good habits, and they will serve you well.
  

  (1) Head Keep your head in a comfortable and vertical position. (2) View Maintain a comfortable viewing distance of 510-760 mm (20-30 in.). (3) Display Position the display to avoid glare or reflections from overhead lighting or outside sources of light. Keep the display screen clean and set the contrast and brightness to levels that allow you to see the screen clearly.

  (4) Thighs Keep your thighs parallel to the floor and your feet flat on the floor or on a footrest. (5) Arms Keep your forearms, wrists, and hands in a relaxed and neutral position. Don't pound the keys; type with a soft touch. (6) Chair Use a chair that gives you good back support.

  What if I am traveling?

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  It may not be possible to observe the best ergonomic practices when you are using the ThinkPad computer while on the move or in a "casual" setting, such as the seashore or on a mountaintop. Sometimes, your lap may be the only "desk" around. Regardless of the setting, try to observe as many of the tips for proper usage as possible. Sitting properly and using adequate lighting, for example, will help you maintain desirable comfort and performance levels.

  Questions about vision?

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  IBM's visual display screens are designed to meet the highest standards and to provide you with clear, crisp images and large, bright displays that are easy to see, yet easy on the eyes. Of course, any concentrated and sustained visual activity can be tiring. If you have questions on eye fatigue or visual discomfort, consult a vision care specialist for advice.

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  Safety Notice

   

  
  
  

  DANGER!
  Do not disassemble, incinerate, or short-circuit the rechargeable battery pack. Do not put it in trash that is disposed of in landfills. Dispose of it as required by local ordinances or regulations. In the United States, call IBM at 1-800-IBM-4333 for information on disposal.

  Caution:
  The fluorescent lamp in the liquid crystal display (LCD) contains mercury. Do not put it in trash that is disposed of in landfills. Dispose of it as required by local ordinances or regulations.

  The LCD is made of glass, and rough handling or dropping the computer can cause the LCD to break. If the LCD breaks and the internal fluid gets into your eyes or on your hands, immediately wash the affected areas with water for at least 15 minutes; then get medical care if any symptoms are present after washing.

  Laser Compliance Statement

  
  
  The CD-ROM drive in the IBM ThinkPad 380D is a laser product. The CD-ROM drive's classification label (shown below) is located on the top of the drive.

  CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT
  LASER KLASSE 1
  LUOKAN 1 LASERLAITE
  APPAREIL A LASER DE CLASSE 1
  KLASS 1 LASER APPARAT

  The CD-ROM drive is certified in the U.S. to conform to the requirements of the Department of Health and Human Services 21 Code of Federal Regulations (DHHS 21 CFR) Subchapter J for Class I laser products.

  In other countries, the drive is certified to conform to the requirements of EN60825.

  
  
  

  Caution:
  Do not open the CD-ROM drive; no user adjustments or serviceable parts are inside.

  Use of controls, adjustments, or the performance of procedures other than those specified may result in hazardous radiation exposure.

  Class I (1) laser products are not considered to be hazardous. The CD-ROM drive has an internal, Class I (1), 0.5-milliwatt, aluminum gallium-arsenide laser that operates at a wavelength of 760 to 810 nanometers. The design of the laser system and the CD-ROM drive ensures that there is no exposure to laser radiation above a Class I (1) level during normal operation, user maintenance, or servicing conditions.

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