TravelMate 520

Service Guide

Service guide files and updates are available

on the AIPG/CSD web; for more information,
please refer to http://csd.acer.com.tw

PART NO.: 49.41H02.001

DOC. NO.: SG336-0005A

PRINTED IN TAIWAN

Copyright
Copyright 1999 by Acer Incorporated. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced,
transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language or computer language, in
any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, magnetic, optical, chemical, manual or otherwise, without
the prior written permission of Acer Incorporated.

Disclaimer
The information in this guide is subject to change without notice.
Acer Incorporated makes no representations or warranties, either expressed or implied, with respect to the
contents hereof and specifically disclaims any warranties of merchantability or fitness for any particular
purpose. Any Acer Incorporated software described in this manual is sold or licensed "as is". Should the
programs prove defective following their purchase, the buyer (and not Acer Incorporated, its distributor, or its
dealer) assumes the entire cost of all necessary servicing, repair, and any incidental or consequential
damages resulting from any defect in the software.

Acer is a registered trademark of Acer Corporation.

Intel is a registered trademark of Intel Corporation.
Pentium and Pentium II/III are trademarks of Intel Corporation.
Other brand and product names are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective holders.

II

Conventions
The following conventions are used in this manual:
Screen messages

Denotes actual messages that appear

on screen.

NOTE

Gives bits and pieces of additional

information related to the current
topic.

WARNING

Alerts you to any damage that might

result from doing or not doing specific
actions.

CAUTION

Gives precautionary measures to

avoid possible hardware or software
problems.

IMPORTANT

Reminds you to do specific actions

relevant to the accomplishment of
procedures.

III

Preface
Before using this information and the product it supports, please read the following general information.

IV

1.

This Service Guide provides you with all technical information relating to the BASIC CONFIGURATION
decided for Acer's "global" product offering. To better fit local market requirements and enhance product
competitiveness, your regional office MAY have decided to extend the functionality of a machine (e.g.
add-on card, modem, or extra memory capability). These LOCALIZED FEATURES will NOT be covered
in this generic service guide. In such cases, please contact your regional offices or the responsible
personnel/channel to provide you with further technical details.

2.

Please note WHEN ORDERING FRU PARTS, that you should check the most up-to-date information
available on your regional web or channel. If, for whatever reason, a part number change is made, it will
not be noted in the printed Service Guide. For ACER-AUTHORIZED SERVICE PROVIDERS, your Acer
office may have a DIFFERENT part number code to those given in the FRU list of this printed Service
Guide. You MUST use the list provided by your regional Acer office to order FRU parts for repair and
service of customer machines.

Table of Contents
Chapter 1

System Specifications

Features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
System Block Diagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Board Layout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Touchpad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Hardware Specifications and Configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Chapter 2

System Utilities

29

BIOS Setup Utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

BIOS Flash Utility. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
System Utility Diskette . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
System Diagnostic Diskette . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Chapter 3

Machine Disassembly and Replacement

43

General Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Disassembly Procedure Flowchart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Removing the Battery Pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Removing the CD-ROM Drive Module. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Removing the Hard Disk Drive Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Removing the Extended Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Removing the Modem Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Disassembling the LCD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Disassembling the Upper Case . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Disassembling the Lower Case . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Chapter 4

Troubleshooting

Jumper and Connector Locations

44
45
47
48
49
50
51
52
58
62

67

System Check Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Index of Error Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Index of Symptom-to-FRU Error Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Intermittent Problems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Undetermined Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Index of AFlash BIOS Error Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Index of PQA Diagnostic Error Code, Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Chapter 5

29
37
38
40

68
71
74
78
79
80
81

83

Top View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Bottom View. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

Chapter 6

FRU (Field Replaceable Unit) List

87

Appendix A

Model Definition and Configuration

99

Appendix B

Test Compatible Components

101

Appendix C

Online Support Information

103

Index

105

Table of Contents

VI

Chapter 1

System Specifications
Features
This computer was designed with the user in mind. Here are just a few of its many features:

Performance

Mobile Pentium III processor with 256KB L2 cache, Mobile Pentium III processor with 256KB
level 2 cache featuring Intel SpeedStep technology with 256KB level 2 cache or Mobile
Celeron processor with 128KB level 2 cache

T
T
T
T

64-bit memory bus

Built-in floppy disk drive
Lithium-Ion battery pack
Power management system with ACPI (Advanced Configuration Power Interface)

Multimedia

T
T
T
T

16-bit high fidelity PCI stereo audio with 3D sound and wavetable synthesizer
Built-in dual speakers with microphone
High-speed CD-ROM, DVD-ROM or CD-RW drive
USB video capture kit option

Connectivity

T
T
T
T

High-speed fax/data modem port

Fast infrared wireless communication
USB (Universal Serial Bus) port
Ethernet/Fast Ethernet port

Human-centric Design and Ergonomics

T
T
T
T

All-in-one design (CD-ROM, floppy disk drive, hard disk drive)

Sleek, smooth and stylish design
Full-sized keyboard
Ergonomically-centered touchpad pointing device

Expansion

T
T
T

Chapter 1

CardBus PC card (formerly PCMCIA) slots (two type II/I or one type III) with ZV (Zoomed Video)
port support (lower slot)
Upgradeable memory and hard disk
Port replicator option for one-step connect/disconnect from peripherals

Display
The large graphics display offers excellent viewing, display quality and desktop performance graphics. The
computer supports a Thin-Film Transistor (TFT) liquid crystal display (LCD) displaying 24-bit true-color at
800x600 Super Video Graphic Array (SVGA) or 1024x768 eXtended Graphics Array (XGA) resolution.

Video performance
2X AGP video graphic accelerator with 8 MB of video memory boost video performance.

Simultaneous display
The computers large display and multimedia capabilities are great for giving presentations. If you prefer, you
can also connect an external monitor when giving presentations. This computer supports simultaneous LCD
and CRT display. Simultaneous display allows you to control the presentation from your computer and at the
same time face your audience. You can also connect other output display devices such as LCD projection
panels for large-audience presentations.

Dual Display
The computers unique graphics chip takes advantage of Windows 98 multi-display capability, allowing you to
extend your desktop to an external display device, such as an external monitor projector. With this feature
enabled, you can move program windows to/from the computer LCD and the external monitor.

Power management
The power management system incorporates an "automatic LCD dim" feature that automatically dims the LCD
when the computer is powered by a battery pack to conserve battery power. See Power Management on
page 26 for more information on power management features.

Opening and closing the display

To open the display, slide the display cover latch to the left and lift up the cover. Then tilt it to a comfortable
viewing position. The computer employs a microswitch that turns off the display (and enters standby mode) to
conserve power when you close the display cover, and turns it back on when you open the display cover.
NOTE: If an external monitor is connected, the computer turns off the display (but does not enter standby
mode) when you close the display cover.
To close the display cover, fold it down gently until the display cover latch clicks into place.
To avoid damaging the display, do not slam it when you close it. Also, do not place any object on top of the
computer when the display is closed.

Chapter 1

System Block Diagram

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Board Layout
Top View

1. DC-in Port

16. Diskette Drive Connector

2. PS/2 Keyboard and Mouse Port

17. PCMCIA (PC card) Controller (OZ6933)

3. Serial Port

18. Switch

4. Parallel Port

19. BIOS ROM

5. Expansion Port

20. HDD Connector

6. USB Port 2

21. Golden Finger for Debug

7. USB Port 1

22. Touchpad Cable Connector

8. External Display Port

23. Digital Finger Print Sensor Connector(Not Used)

9. Modem Port

24. Keyboard Cable Connector

10. LAN Port

25. RTC Battery

11. LED & Inverter Connector

26. CD-ROM Connector

12. Fan Connector

27. LCD Connector

13. CPU Socket

28. TV BD Connector(Not Used)

14. VGA Controller (ATI Rage Mobility-M1)

29. Launch Key Connector

15. PCMCIA Socket Connector

Chapter 1

Bottom View

1. North Bridge (ALi M1621)

7. Battery Connector

2. Power Push Switch

8. South Bridge (ALi M1535)

3. Audio Connector

9. LAN Controller(Intel GD82559)

4. DIMM 1 Socket

10. Modem Card Cable Connector

5. DIMM 2 Socket (Reverse)

11. Modem Card Cable Connector

6. Modem Connector

Chapter 1

Panel
Ports allow you to connect peripheral devices to your computer as you would with a desktop PC.

Front Panel

Item

Description

Display screen

Also called LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), displays computer

output.

Touchpad

Touch-sensitive pointing device which functions like a

computer mouse.

Floppy drive

Internal diskette drive, accepts 3.5-inch floppy diskette.

Click button (left, center and right)

The left and right buttons function like the left and right
mouse buttons, the center button serves as a scroll up/
down button.

Palmrest

Comfortable support area for your hands when you use the
computer.

Keyboard

Inputs data into your computer.

Status indicator

LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) that turn on and off to show

the status of the computer and its functions and
components.

Chapter 1

Left Panel

Icon

Item/ Port

Connects to...

Security keylock

Kensington-compatible key-based computer

security lock.

PCMCIA (PC card) Port

Two Type I/II or one Type III 16-bit PC card or 32bit CardBus PC Card.

Eject button

Eject PC cards from the card slots.

Power switch

Turns on the computer power.

Infrared port

Interfaces with Infrared devices (e.g., infrared

printer, IR-aware computers).

Speaker/ headphone-out jack

Audio line-out devices (e.g., speakers,

headphones)

Line-in jack

Accepts audio line-in devices (e.g., audio CD

player, stereo walkman).

Microphone-in jack

Accepts a mono-stereo condenser microphone.

Volume control

Controls the volume of the speakers.

10

Video capture kit slot

Accepts the video capture kit option on the left

side of the computer.

Chapter 1

Right Panel

Icon

Item/ Port

Connects to...

Video capture kit slot

Accepts the video capture kit option on the

right side of the computer.

Battery bay

Houses the computers battery pack.

CD-ROM/DVD-ROM/CD-RW Drive

Houses removable media drive modules.

LED indicator

Lights up when the AcerMedia drive is active.

Eject button

Ejects the compact disc from the drive.

Emergency eject slot

Ejects the compact discs when the computer

is turned off.

DC-in port

AC adapter and power outlet.

Rear Panel

Icon

Item/ Port

Connects to...

PS/2 keyboard and mouse port

PS/2 compatible device (e.g., PS/2 keyboard/

mouse/keypad)

Serial port

Serial device (e.g., serial mouse)

Parallel port

Parallel device (e.g., parallel printer)

Chapter 1

Icon

Item/ Port

Connects to...

Expansion port

EasyPort port replicator

USB ports

Universal Serial Bus devices (e.g., USB

mouse, USB camera)

External display port

Display device (e.g., external monitor, LCD

projector) and displays up to 64K colors at
1280x1024 resolution).

Modem port

Phone line

LAN port

Ethernet 10/100 based network

Bottom Panel

Item

Description

Memory compartment

Houses the computers main memory.

Hard disk anti-shock protection

Protects your hard disk against shocks.

Personal identification slot

Insert a business card or similar-sized identification card to

personalize your computer.

AcerMedia bay release latch

Unlatches the AcerMedia drive for removal or swapping.

AcerMedia bay

Houses an AcerMedia drive module.

Battery bay

Houses the computers battery pack.

Battery release latch

Unlatches the battery to remove the battery pack.

Hard disk bay

Houses the computers hard disk (secured by a screw).

Chapter 1

Indicators
The computer has six easy-to-read status icons below the display screen.

The Power and Sleep status icons are visible even when you close the display cover so you can see the status
of the computer while the cover is closed.

10

Icon

Function

Description

Power

Lights when the computer is on.

Sleep

Lights when the computer enters Sleep Mode.

Media Activity

Lights when the floppy disk drive, hard disk drive

or AcerMedia drive is active.

Battery Charge

Lights when the battery is being charged.

Caps Lock

Lights when Caps Lock is activated.

Num Lock

Lights when Num Lock is activated.

Chapter 1

Keyboard
The keyboard has full-sized keys and an embedded keypad, separate cursor keys, two Windows keys and
twelve function keys.

Special keys
Lock keys
The keyboard has three lock keys which you can toggle on and off.

Lock key

Description

Caps Lock

When Caps Lock is on, all alphabetic characters typed are in uppercase.

Num Lock (Fn-F11)

When Num Lock is on, the embedded keypad is in numeric mode. The keys
function as a calculator (complete with the arithmetic operators +, -, *, and /). Use
this mode when you need to do a lot of numeric data entry. A better solution would
be to connect an external keypad.

Scroll Lock (Fn-F12)

When Scroll Lock is on, the screen moves one line up or down when you press the
up or down arrow keys respectively. Scroll Lock does not work with some
applications.

Embedded numeric keypad

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

Desired access

Num lock on

Num lock off

Number keys on embedded

keypad

Type numbers in a normal manner.

Cursor-control keys on embedded

keypad

Hold Shift while using cursor-control keys.

Hold Fn while using cursor-control

keys.

Main keyboard keys

Hold Fn while typing letters on embedded

keypad.

Type the letters in a normal manner.

Chapter 1

11

NOTE: If an external keyboard or keypad is connected to the computer, the Num Lock feature automatically
shifts from the internal keyboard to the external keyboard or keypad.

Windows keys
The keyboard has two keys that perform Windows-specific functions.

Keys

Description

Start button. Combinations with this key perform shortcut functions. Below
are a few examples:

Windows logo key

+ Tab (Activates next taskbar button)

+ E (Explores My Computer)
+ F (Finds Document)
+ M (Minimizes All)
Shift + + M (Undoes Minimize All)
+ R (Displays the Run... dialog box)

Application key

Opens a context menu (same as a right-click).

Hot Keys
The computer employs hot keys or key combinations to access most of the computers controls like screen
brightness, volume output and the BIOS Utility.
To activate hot keys, press and hold the Fn key before pressing the other key in the hot key combination.

Hot key

12

Icon

Function

Description

Fn-F1

Hot Key Help

Displays help on hot keys.

Fn-F2

Setup

Accesses the computers configuration utility.

Chapter 1

Hot key

Icon

Function

Description

Fn-F3

Power Management Scheme

Toggle

Switches the power management scheme

used by the computer (function available if
supported by operating system)

Fn-F4

Sleep

Puts the computer in Sleep mode.

Fn-F5

Display Toggle

Switches display output between the display

screen, external monitor (if connected) and
both the display screen and external monitor.

Fn-F6

Screen Blank

Turns the display screen backlight off to save

power. Press any key to return.

Fn-F7

Touchpad Toggle

Turns the internal touchpad on and off.

Fn-F8

Speaker Toggle

Turns the speakers on and off.

Fn-

Brightness Down

Decreases the screen brightness.

Fn-

Brightness Up

Increases the screen brightness.

Fn-

Contrast Up

Not applicable, because the contrast level of

TFT display is already optimized.

Fn-

Contrast Down

Not applicable, because the contrast level of

TFT display is already optimized.

Alt Gr-Euro

Euro

Types the euro symbol.

The euro symbol

If your keyboard layout is set to United States-International or United Kingdom or if you have a keyboard with
a European layout, you can type the Euro symbol on your keyboard.
NOTE: For US keyboard users: The keyboard layout is set when you first set up Windows. For the Euro
symbol to work, the keyboard layout has to be set to United States-International.
To verify the keyboard type:
1.

Click on Start, Settings, Control Panel.

2.

Double-click on Keyboard.

3.

Click on the Language tab.

4.

Verify that the keyboard layout used for "English (United States)" is set to United States-International.
If not, select and click on Properties; then select United States-International and click on OK.

Chapter 1

13

5.

Click on OK.

To type the Euro symbol:

1.

Locate the Euro symbol on your keyboard.

2.

Open a text editor or word processor.

3.

Hold Alt Gr and press the Euro symbol.

NOTE: Some fonts and software do not support the Euro symbol. Please refer to http://www.microsoft.com/
typography/faq/faq12.htm for more information.

Launch Keys
Located at the top of the keyboard are four buttons. These buttons are called launch keys. They are
designated as key 1, key 2, key 3 and key 4. By default, key 1 is used to launch the internet browser and key
2 is used to launch the e-mail application. Keys 3 and 4 starts the Launch Manager application. All four keys
can be set by the user. To set the launch keys, run the Acer Launch Manager.

14

Chapter 1

Touchpad
The built-in touchpad is a PS/2-compatible pointing device that senses movement on its surface. This means
that the cursor responds as you move your finger on the surface of the touchpad. The central location on the
palmrest provides optimum comfort and support.
NOTE: When using an external USB or serial mouse, you can press Fn-F7 to disable the touchpad. If you are
using an external PS/2 mouse, the touchpad is automatically disabled.

Touchpad basics
The following items teach you how to use the touchpad:

1.

Move your finger across the touchpad to move the cursor.

2.

Press the left (1) and right (3) buttons located on the edge of the touchpad to do selection and execution
functions. These two buttons are similar to the left and right buttons on a mouse. Tapping on the
touchpad produces similar results.

3.

Use the center (2) buttons (top and bottom) to scroll up or down a page. This button mimics your cursor
pressing on the right scroll bar of Windows applications.

Chapter 1

15

Function

Left Button

Right Button

Center Button

Tap

Execute

Click twice quickly

Tap twice (at the same

speed as doubleclicking a mouse
button)

Select

Click once

Tap once

Drag

Click and hold, then

use finger to drag the
cursor on the
touchpad

Tap twice (at the same

speed as doubleclicking a mouse
button) then hold
finger to the touchpad
on the second tap and
drag the cursor

Access context
menu
Scroll

Click once
Click and hold the up/
down buttons

NOTE: Keep your fingers dry and clean when using the touchpad. Also keep the touchpad dry and clean.
The touchpad is sensitive to finger movements. Hence, the lighter the touch, the better the response.
Tapping harder will not increase the touchpads responsiveness.

16

Chapter 1

Hardware Specifications and Configurations

Main board Major Chips
Item

Controller

System core logic

ALi M1621/M1535

Super I/O controller

ALi M1535

Audio controller

ALi M1535 + Cirrus Logic CS4299

Video controller

ATI Rage Mobility-M1

IDE controller

ALi M1535

Keyboard controller

M38867

RTC

BQ3285LF

PCMCIA Controller

O2 OZ6933

Processor
Item

Specification

CPU type

Intel Mobile Pentium III/Celeron 500/500+ MHz with 256KB/128KB on-die

cache

CPU package

uPGA2 package

CPU core voltage

1.6V / 1.35V

CPU I/O voltage

1.5V

BIOS
Item

Specification

BIOS vendor

Acer

BIOS version

V3.0

BIOS ROM type

Flash ROM

BIOS ROM size

512KB

BIOS package

32-pin TSOP

Supported protocols

ACPI 1.0b, APM 1.2, PC Card 95, SM BIOS 2.3, EPP/IEEE 1284, ECP/IEEE
1284 1.7 & 1.9, IrDA, PCI 2.1, PnP 1.0a, PS/2 keyboard and mouse, USB,
VESA VGA BIOS, DDC-2B, CD-ROM bootable, Windows keyboard Microsoft
Simple Boot Flag

BIOS password control

Set by switch, see SW1 settings

Second Level Cache

Item

Specification

Cache controller

Built-in ALi M1621

Cache size

128KB/256KB

1st level cache control

Always Enabled

2nd level cache control

Always Enabled

Cache scheme control

Fixed-in write back

System Memory
Item

Specification

Memory controller

ALi M1621

Onboard memory size

0 MB

Chapter 1

17

System Memory
Item

Specification

DIMM socket number

2 sockets

Supports memory size per socket

32/64/128/256 MB

Supports maximum memory size

512 MB (256MB x 2)

Supports DIMM type

SDRAM

Supports DIMM speed

100 MHz

Supports DIMM voltage

3.3 V

Supports DIMM package

144 pin so-DIMM

Memory module combinations

You can install memory modules in any combinations as long as they match
the above specifications.

Memory Combinations
Slot 1

Slot 2

Total Memory

32 MB

32 MB

64 MB

64 MB

0 MB

64 MB

0 MB

64 MB

64 MB

64 MB

32 MB

96 MB

32 MB

64 MB

96 MB

64 MB

64 MB

128 MB

0 MB

128 MB

128 MB

128 MB

0 MB

128 MB

32 MB

128 MB

160 MB

128 MB

32 MB

160 MB

64 MB

128 MB

192 MB

128 MB

64 MB

192 MB

128 MB

128 MB

256 MB

256 MB

0 MB

256 MB

0 MB

256 MB

256 MB

256 MB

32 MB

288 MB

32 MB

256 MB

288 MB

256 MB

64 MB

320 MB

64 MB

256 MB

320 MB

256 MB

128 MB

384 MB

128 MB

256 MB

384 MB

256 MB

256 MB

512 MB

Above table lists some system memory configurations. You may combine DIMMs with various capacities to
form other combinations.
LAN & Modem Interface
Item
Chipset

18

Specification
M1535/GD 82559

Fax modem data baud rate (bps)

14.4K

Data modem data baud rate (bps)

56K

Supports modem protocol

ITU-T V.90, V.34, TIA/EIA 602

Supports LAN protocol

IEEE 802.3

Modem/LAN connector type

RJ11/RJ45

Chapter 1

LAN & Modem Interface

Item

Specification

Modem/LAN connector location

Rear Side

Floppy Disk Drive Interface

Item

Specification

Vendor & model name

Mitsumi D353F3X

Floppy Disk Specifications

Media recognition

2DD(720KB)

2HD(1.2MB, 3-mode)

2HD(1.44MB)

Sectors/track

15

18

Tracks

80

80

80

Data transfer rate (Kbit/s)

1MB

1.6MB

2MB

Rotational speed (RPM)

300

360

300

Read/write heads

Encoding method

MFM/FM

Power Requirement
Input Voltage (V)

+5V +/- 10%

Hard Disk Drive Interface

Item

Specification

Vendor & Model Name

IBM DARA-209000

IBM DARA-212000

Hitachi DK23AA-12

Capacity (GB)

12

12

Bytes per sector

512

512

512

Logical heads

16

16

16

Logical sectors

63

63

63

Logical cylinders

16383

16383

16383

Physical read/write
heads

Disks

Spindle speed (RPM)

4200

4200

4200

418

418

512

Interface

IDE (ATA-4)

IDE (ATA-4)

IDE (ATA-5)

Data transfer rate (disk

buffer, MB/s)

85.5-161.6

85.5-161.6

12.4-20.6

Data transfer rate (host

buffer, MB/s)

16.6 (PIO Mode-4)

16.6 (PIO Mode-4)

66.6 (Ultra DMA Mode-4)

66.6 (Ultra DMA Mode-4)

16.6 (PIO Mode-4/Multiword

DMA Mode-2)

Drive Format

Performance Specifications
Buffer size (KB)

66.6 (Ultra DMA Mode-4)

DC Power Requirements
Voltage tolerance

Chapter 1

5+/-5%

5+/-5%

5+/-5%

19

CD-ROM Interface
Item
Vendor & Model Name

Specification
MKE CR-176-B/D 24X

TEAC CD-224E-B26

CAV Mode:

Burst:

Performance Specification
Transfer rate

775~1800 blocks/sec

33.3 Mbytes/sec

Mode 1:

Sustained:

1550~3600 kBytes/sec

1545~3600 kBytes/sec

Mode 2:
1768~4106kBytes/sec
Access time (typ.)

Random: 100 ms

115 ms

Full Stroke: 200 ms

Rotation speed

5000 rpm

5136 rpm

Data Buffer Capacity

128 KB

128 KB

Interface

IDE

IDE

Applicable disc format

CD-Audio, CD-ROM ( mode 1 and

Mode 2 ), CD-ROM XA ( mode 2, form
1 and form 2 ), CD-I ( mode 2, form 1
and form 2 ), CD-I Ready, CD-I Bridge,
Photo CD, CD-WO, Video CD,
Enhanced Music CD (CD Plus), CDRW

CD-ROM (mode 1 and mode 2), CDROM XA (mode 1, form 1 and form2),
Photo CD, Enhanced CD, CD-RW

Loading mechanism

Drawer with soft eject and emergency eject hole

Power Requirement
Input Voltage

5V+/-5%

5V+/-5%

DVD-ROM Interface
Item
Vendor & model name

Specification
MKE SR-8174-BXX

Performance Specification

With CD Diskette

With DVD Diskette

Transfer rate (KB/s)

Average Sustained:

DVD-5:

CAV mode
775~1800 blocks/sec
(10.3X to 24X) 1550~3600 kBytes/
sec (Mode 1)
1768~4106 kBytes/
sec (Mode 2)

Normal Speed (1X)

11.08 Mbits/sec
CAV mode
27.51~66.48 Mbits/sec
DVD-9:
Normal Speed (1X)
11.08 Mbits/sec
CAV mode
TBD~TBD Mbits/sec

Access time (typ.)

Random (*1)
CAV mode

120 msec typical

180 msec average max

Full Stroke (*2)

CAV mode
Data Buffer Capacity

512 kBytes

Interface

IDE

Applicable disc format

210 msec typical

270 msec average max

Random (*3)
170 msec typical
270 msec average max
Full Stroke (*4)
320 msec typical
480 msec average max

DVD: DVD-5, DVD-9, DVD-10, DVD-R (3.95G)

CD: CD-Audio, CD-ROM (mode 1 and mode 2), CD-ROM XA (mode 2, form 1
and form 2), CD-I (mode 2, form 1 and form 2), CD-I Ready, CD-I Bridge,
CD-WO, CD-RW, Photo CD, Video CD, Enhanced Music CD, CD-TEXT

20

Chapter 1

DVD-ROM Interface
Item
Loading mechanism

Specification
Soft eject (with emergency eject hole)

Power Requirement
Input Voltage

5V

Note: (*1) Average of Data read over the whole area from 00 min. 02 sec. 00 block to 59 min. 58 sec. 74 block more than
2000 times including latency and layered error correction time.
(*2) From 00 min. 02 sec. 00 block to 59 min. 58 sec. 74 block including latency and layered error correction time.
(*3) Disc: MNSU-005
(*4) Average of Data read over the whole area from starting data recorded area (LBA:0) to maximum data recorded
area (LBA:23197F), more than 2000 times including latency and layered error correction time.
(*5) from starting data recorded area (LBA:0) to maximum data recorded area (LBA:23197F) including latency and
layered error correction time.
(*6) Disc: MKE-D551

Audio Interface
Item

Specification

Audio controller

Cirrus Logic CS4299

Audio onboard or optional

Built-in

Mono or Stereo

Stereo

Resolution

20 bit stereo Digital to Analog converter

18 bit stereo Analog to Digital converter

Compatibility

Microsoft PC98/PC99, AC97 2.1

Mixed sound source

Line-in, CD, Video, AUX

Voice channel

8/16 bit, mono/stereo

Sampling rate

44.1 KHz

Internal microphone

Yes

Internal speaker / Quantity

Yes/ 2 pieces

Supports PnP DMA channel

DMA channel 0
DMA channel 1

Supports PnP IRQ

IRQ3, IRQ5, IRQ7, IRQ9, IRQ10, IRQ11

Video Interface
Item

Specification

Vendor & model name

ATI Rage Mobility-M1

Chip voltage

Core/2.5V
Memory/3.3V

Supports ZV (Zoomed Video) port

Yes

Graph interface

2X AGP (Accelerated Graphics Port) bus

Maximum resolution (LCD)

1024x768 (24 bit colors)

Maximum resolution (CRT)

1024x768 (24 bit colors)

Video Memory
Item

Specification

Fixed or upgradeable

Fixed, built-in video controller

Video memory size

8.0 MB

Chapter 1

21

Video Resolutions Mode

Resolution

Refresh Rate
CRT Only

LCD/CRT Simultaneous

640x480x256

85

60

640x480x64K

85

60

640x480x16M

85

60

800x600x256

85

60

800X600X64K

85

60

1024x768x256

60, 75

60

Parallel Port
Item

Specification

Parallel port controller

ALi M1535

Number of parallel port

Location

Rear side

Connector type

25-pin D-type connector, in female type

Parallel port function control

Enable/Disable by BIOS Setup

Supports ECP/EPP

Yes (set by BIOS Setup)

Optional ECP DMA channel

(in BIOS Setup)

DMA channel 1 and 3

Optional parallel port I/O address

(in BIOS Setup)

3BCh, 378h, 278h

Optional parallel port IRQ

(in BIOS Setup)

IRQ5, IRQ7

Serial Port
Item

Specification

Serial port controller

ALi M1535

Number of serial port

Supports 16550 UART

Yes

Connector type

9-pin D-type connector, in male type

Location

Rear side

Serial port function control

Enable/Disable by BIOS Setup

Optional serial port (in BIOS Setup)

3F8h, 3E8h, 2E8h

Optional serial port IRQ (in BIOS

Setup)

IRQ4, IRQ11

USB Port
Item

22

Specification

USB Compliancy Level

1.0

HCI

OHCI 1.0a

Number of USB port

Location

Rear side

Chapter 1

IrDA Port
Item
IrDA FIR port controller

Specification
ALi M1535

Number of IrDA FIR port

Location

Left side

IrDA FIR port function control

Enable/disable by BIOS Setup

Optional IrDA FIR port

(in BIOS Setup)

2F8h, 3F8h, 3E8h, 2E8h

Optional IrDA FIR port IRQ

(in BIOS Setup)

IRQ3, IRQ4

Optional IrDA FIR port DRQ

(in BIOS Setup)

DMA0, DMA1, DMA3

PCMCIA Port
Item

Specification

PCMCIA controller

O2 OZ6933

Supports card type

Type III/II/I

Number of slots

One type III or two type II/I

Access location

Left side

Supports ZV (Zoomed Video) port

Yes

Supports 32 bit CardBus

Yes (IRQ9)

Keyboard
Item

Specification

Keyboard controller

Mitsubishi M38867

Keyboard vendor & model name

JME K9811

Total number of keypads

84/85/88-key

Windows 95 keys

Yes

Internal & external keyboard work

simultaneously

Yes

Battery
Item

Specification

Vendor & model name

Sanyo BTP-34A1

Battery Type

Li-Ion

Pack capacity

3600 mAH

Cell voltage

3.7V

Number of battery cell

Package configuration

4S2P

Package voltage

14.8V

DC-DC/Charger Converter
Item

Specification

Vendor & Model Name

Acer

Input Voltage

AC Adapter or Battery: 10V - 26V

Chapter 1

23

DC-DC/Charger Converter
Item

Specification

DC-DC Converter Output

Output Rating

5V

3.3V

12V

5V SB

Current (w/load, A)

0~4.5

0~3.5

0~0.12

0~0.02

Charger Output
Normal charge (charge while system
is not operative)

2.5A

Background charge (charge even

system is still operative)

1A

Battery-low 2 level (V)

13.5V

Battery-low 3 level (V)

None

Protection
Charger protection
DC/DC converter protection

Over Current Protection

OCP (Over Current Protection, A)
OVP (Over Voltage Protection, V)
UVP (Under Voltage Protection, V)

DC-AC LCD Inverter

Item
Vendor & model name

Specification
Ambit

Input voltage (V)

8 ~ 21V

Input current (mA)

1A (max.)

Output voltage
(Vrms, no load)

1400Vrms

Output voltage
frequency (kHz)

40 ~ 70KHz

Output Current/Lamp

5.5 mA ~ 6.5mA

NOTE: DC-AC inverter is used to generate very high AC voltage, then support to LCD CCFT backlight user,
and is also responsible for the control of LCD brightness. Avoid touching the DC-AC inverter area while
the system unit is turned on.
NOTE: There is an EEPROM in the inverter, which stores its supported LCD type and ID code. If you replace
a new inverter or replace the LCD with a different brand, use Inverter ID utility to update the ID
information.
LCD
Item
Vendor & model name

Specification
12.1 Hitachi

13.3 ADT

14.1 ADT

14.1 IBM

TX31D35VC1CAA

L133X2-3

L141X1-1

ITXG76C

12.1

13.3

14.1

14.1

Display technology

TFT

TFT

TFT

TFT

Resolution

SVGA (800x600)

XGA (1024x768)

XGA (1024x768)

XGA (1024x768)

Support colors

16M

262K

262K

16M

Brightness control

Keyboard hot key

keyboard hotkey

Keyboard hotkey

Keyboard hot key

Contrast control

None

None

None

None

3.3 (typ.)

3.3 (typ.)

3.3 (typ.)

3.3 (typ.)

Mechanical Specifications
LCD display area (diagonal, inch)

Optical Specification

Electrical Specification
Supply voltage for LCD display (V)

24

Chapter 1

LCD
Item
Supply voltage for LCD backlight
(Vrms)

Specification
550 (typ.)

601 (typ.)

670 (typ.)

670 (typ.)

AC Adapter
Item
Vendor & model name

Specification
Delta ADT-60XB D 3P

LiteOn PA-1600-02

Input Requirements
Maximum input current

1.5A @ 90Vac

1.5A @ 90Vac

0.9A @ 180Vac

0.95A @ 180Vac

47 - 63

47 - 63

Frequency variation range (Hz)

47 - 63

47 - 63

Nominal voltages (V)

90 - 270

90 - 270

Inrush current

The maximum inrush current will be

less than 50A and 100A when the
adapter is connected to 115Vac(60Hz)
and 230Vac(50Hz) respectively

The maximum inrush current will be

less than 50A and 100A when the
adapter is connected to 115Vac(60Hz)
and 230Vac(50Hz) respectively

Efficiency

It should provide an efficiency of 83%

minimum, when measured at maximum
load under 115V(60Hz)

It should provide an efficiency of 83%

minimum, when measured at maximum
load under 115V(60Hz)

Nominal frequency (Hz)

Output Ratings (CV mode)

DC output voltage

19V - 20.5V

19V - 20.5V

Noise + Ripple

300mVp-pmax (20MHz bandwidth)

300mVp-pmax (20MHz bandwidth)

Load

0 A (min.); 3.16 A (max.)

0 A (min.); 3.16 A (max.)

Output Ratings (CC mode)

DC output voltage

+12V ~ +19V

+12V ~ +19V

Constant output

3.6 +/- 0.3

3.6 +/- 0.3

2 sec (@ 115Vac)

2 sec (@ 115Vac)

Dynamic Output Characteristics

Turn-on delay time
Hold up time

8 ms (@115Vac input, full load)

8 ms (@115Vac input, full load)

Over Voltage Protection (OVP)

24V

24V

Short circuit protection

Output can be shorted without damage Output can be shorted without damage

Electrostatic discharge (ESD)

15kV (at air discharge)

15kV (at air discharge)

8kV (at contact discharge)

8kV (at contact discharge)

Dielectric Withstand Voltage

Primary to secondary

1500 Vac (or 2121 Vdc), 10mA for 1 second

Leakage current

0.25 mA max. (@ 254 Vac, 60Hz)

Regulatory Requirements

Internal Filter meets:

1. FCC class B requirements. (USA)
2. VDE 243/1991 class B requirements. (German)
3. CISPR 22 Class B requirements. (Scandinavia)
4. VCCI class II requirements. (Japan)

Chapter 1

25

Power Management
Power Saving Mode
Standby Mode
Waiting time specified by the
System Standby value or the
operating system elapses without
any system activity.

T
T
T
T
T

Phenomenon
The buzzer beeps
The Sleep indicator lights up

Closing the display cover

When the computer is about to
enter Hibernation mode (e.g.,
during a battery-low condition),
but the Hibernation file is invalid
or not present.
When customized functions for
power management are set to
Standby and the corresponding
action is taken.
Invoked by the operating system
power-saving modes.

Hibernation Mode
When customized functions for
power management are set to
Hibernation and the
corresponding action is taken.

T
T

T
T

Invoked by the operating system

power-saving modes.

Display Standby Mode

Keyboard, built-in touchpad, and an
external PS/2 pointing device are idle
for a specified period.
Hard Disk Standby Mode
Hard disk is idle within a specified
period of time.

All power shuts off

The display shuts off

Hard disk drive is in standby mode.

(spindle turned off)

Environmental Requirements
Item

Specification

Temperature
Operating

+5 ~ +35C

Non-operating

-10 ~ +60C

Non-operating

-20 ~ +60C (Storage package)

Humidity
Operating

20% ~ 80% RH, non-condensing

Non-operating

20% ~ 80% RH, non-condensing

Non-operating

20% ~ 90% RH, non-condensing (storage package)

Vibration
Operating (unpacked)

5 ~ 25.6 Hz: 0.38 mm (peak to peak)

25.6 ~ 250 Hz: 0.5G

Non-operating (unpacked)

5 ~ 27.1 Hz: 0.6G

27.1 Hz ~ 50 Hz: 0.4 mm (peak to peak)
50 ~ 500 Hz: 2.0G

Non-operating (packed)

5 ~ 62.6 Hz: 0.51 mm (peak to peak)

62.6 ~ 500 Hz: 4G

26

Chapter 1

Mechanical Specifications
Item

Specification

Dimensions

310 (W) x 255 (D) x 36.6 (H) mm

Weight

6.1 lbs for 12.1 TFT

I/O Ports

One type III or two type II/I PCMCIA (PC Card) port, two USB ports, one RJ-11
port, one RJ-45 port, one DC-in port, one expansion port, one parallel port,
one serial port, one external display port, one PS/2 keyboard/mouse port,
one FIR port, one line-in jack, one speaker/headphone-out jack,
one microphone-in jack

6.39 lbs for 14.1 TFT

Drive Bays

One

Material

Plastic

Indicators

Power-on, Standby, Battery Status, Media Access, Caps Lock and Num Lock

Switch

Power

Memory Address Map

Memory Address

Size

Function

00000000-0009FFFF

640 KB

Base memory

80600000-80600FFF

4 KB

Rage Mobility-M1 AGP

80620000-8063FFFF

128 KB

81000000-81FFFFF

3 MB

000A0000-000CFFFF

192 KB

000E0000-000ED7FF

54 KB

80100000-80100FFF

4 KB

80200000-802FFFFF

Intel 8255X - Based PCI Ethernet

Adapter

1 MB

08000000-08000FFF

4 KB

08001000-08001FFF

O2 Micro OZ6933 Cardbus Controller

4 KB

82400000-82400FFF

4 KB

USB

82200000-82200FFF

4 KB

Audio

I/O Address Map

I/O Address

Function

000-00F

DMA controller-1

020-021

Interrupt controller-1

040-043

Timer 1

060, 064

Keyboard controller 8742 chip select

061

System speaker

066

ACPI Embedded Controller

070-073

System CMOS/RTC

080

Main board resources

081-08F

DMA Controller-1

0A0-0A1

Interrupt controller-2

0C0-0DF

DMA controller-2

0F0-0FF

Numeric data processor

170-177/376

2nd EIDE device (CD-ROM) select

1F0-1F7/3F6

1st EIDE device (hard drive) select

Chapter 1

27

I/O Address Map

I/O Address

Function

278-27F

Parallel port 3

2E8-2EF

Lucent Technologies Soft Modem AMR

2F8-2FF

ALi Fast Infrared Controller

378, 37F

Printer Port (LPT 1)

3B0-3BB, 3C0-3DF

Video Controller

3F0-3F5/3F7

Standard Floppy Disk Controller

3E8-3EF

COM3

3F8-3FF

COM1 or LT Win modem (optional)

480-48F, 4D6

DMA controller-1

4D0-4D1, CF8-CFF

PCI configuration register

IRQ Assignment Map

Interrupt Channel

Function

NMI

System errors

IRQ0

System timer

IRQ1

Keyboard

IRQ2

Cascade

IRQ3

IrDA

IRQ4

COM1

IRQ5

Reserved

IRQ6

Floppy

IRQ7

LPT1

IRQ8

Real time clock

IRQ9

SCI

IRQ10

Audio/Modem/LAN

IRQ11

USB/VGA/Cardbus

IRQ12

PS2 pointing device

IRQ13

Numeric data processor

IRQ14

1st IDE device (hard disk)

IRQ15

2nd EIDE device (CD-ROM drive)

DMA Channel Assignment

DMA Channel

28

Function

DRQ0

Not used

DRQ1

Not used

DRQ2

Floppy

DRQ3

FIR

DRQ4

DMA controller

DRQ5

Not used

DRQ6

Not used

DRQ7

Not used

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

System Utilities
BIOS Setup Utility
The BIOS Setup Utility is a hardware configuration program built into your computers BIOS (Basic Input/
Output System).
Your computer is already properly configured and optimized, and you do not need to run this utility. However,
if you encounter configuration problems, you may need to run Setup. Please also refer to Chapter 4
Troubleshooting when problem arises.
To activate the BIOS Utility, press F2 during POST (while the TravelMate logo is being displayed).

Navigating the BIOS Utility

There are six menu options: System Information, Basic System Settings, Startup Configuration, Onboard
Device Configuration, System Security and Loading Default Settings.
To enter a menu, highlight the item using the cursor up/down keys, then press Enter.
Within a menu, navigate through the BIOS Utility by following these instructions:

T
T
T

Press the cursor up/down keys to move between the parameters.

Press the cursor left/right keys to change the value of a parameter.
Press the Esc key while you are in any of the menu options to return to the main menu.

NOTE: You can change the value of a parameter if it is enclosed in square brackets. Navigation keys are
shown at the bottom of the screen.

Chapter 2

29

System Information
The System Information screen displays a summary of your computer hardware information.

NOTE: The screen above is a sample and may not reflect the actual data on your computer. X may refer to a
series of numbers and/or characters.
The following table describes the information in this screen.

Parameter

Description

CPU Type & Speed

Describes the type of CPU installed in the system.

Floppy Disk Drive

Shows the floppy disk drive type (1.44 MB, 3.5-inch).

Hard Disk Drive

Shows the size or capacity of the hard disk.

HDD Serial Number

Shows the serial number of the hard disk.

System with

Shows the high-capacity disc drive installed.

System BIOS Version

Shows the system BIOS version.

VGA BIOS Version

Shows the video graphics accelerator BIOS version.

Serial Number

Shows the serial number of the computer.

Asset Tag Number

Shows the asset tag number of the computer.

Product Name

Shows the official name of the product.

Manufacturer Name

Shows the manufacturer of the computer.

UUID

Shows the universally unique identifier of your computer.

The items in this screen are important and vital information about your computer. If you experience computer
problems and need to contact technical support, this data helps our service personnel know more about your
computer.

30

Chapter 2

Basic System Settings

The Basic System Settings screen allows you to set the system date and time.

The following table describes the parameters in this screen.

Parameter

Description

Format

Date

Sets the system date.

DDD MMM DD, YYYY

(day-of-the-week month day, year)

Time

Sets the system time.

HH:MM:SS (hour:minute:second)

Startup Configuration
The Startup Configuration screen contains parameter values that define how your computer behaves on
system startup.

Chapter 2

31

The following table describes the parameters in this screen. Settings in boldface are the default and
suggested parameter settings.

Parameter
Boot Display

Description
Sets the display device on boot-up.

Options
Both or Auto

When set to Auto, the computer automatically

determines the display device when the computer
starts up. If an external display device (e.g., monitor)
is connected, it becomes the boot display; otherwise,
the computers display screen is the boot display.
When set to Both, the computer outputs to both the
computer display screen and an external display
device if one is connected.
Screen Expansion

When set to enabled, the screen will automatically

adjust the display to fit the screen when the resolution
is set to 640 x 480.

Enabled or Disabled

Resume on LAN/Modem Access

When enabled, it allows your computer to resume

when LAN/Modem access is active.

Enabled or Disabled

Hotkey Beep

When enabled, the computer gives off a beep when a

hotkey (key combination is pressed).

Enabled or Disabled

Fast Boot

Allows you to define your systems booting process;

whether to skip some POST routines or proceed with
the normal booting process.

Enabled or Disabled

Boot Drive Sequence

Specifies the order in which the computer starts up

from. See the section below.

1st: Floppy Disk,

2nd: CD-ROM,
3rd: Hard Disk
4th: LANDesk (R) Service
Agent

Setting the Boot Drive Sequence

The Boot Drive Sequence section lists boot priorities (1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th) for bootable drives in your
computer.
For example, the default value (1st:Floppy Disk, 2nd:CD-ROM, 3rd:Hard Disk and 4th:LANDesk (R) Service
Agent) tells the computer to first search for a bootable floppy disk in the floppy drive. If it finds one present, it
boots up from that floppy disk. If not, the computer continues to search for a bootable CD-ROM in the CDROM drive. If it cannot boot up from the CD-ROM drive, it continues by booting up from the hard disk.
To set the boot drive sequence, use the cursor up/down keys to select a priority level (1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th),
then use the cursor left/right keys to select the device for that priority level.

32

Chapter 2

Onboard Device Configuration

The parameters in this screen are for advanced users only. You do not need to change the values in this
screen because these values are already optimized.
The Onboard Device Configuration screen assigns resources to basic computer communication hardware.

The following table describes the parameters in this screen. Settings in boldface are the default and
suggested parameter settings.

Parameter
Serial Port

Description
Enables or disables the serial port.
When enabled, you can set the base I/O address and
interrupt request (IRQ) of the serial port.

IrDA FIR Port

Enables or disables the infrared port.

Options
Enabled or Disabled
3F8h, 3E8h, 2F8h or 2E8h
4 or 11
Disabled or Enabled

When enabled, you can set the base I/O address and
interrupt request (IRQ) and direct memory access
(DMA) channel of the infrared port.
Parallel Port

Enables or disables the parallel port.

When enabled, you can set the base I/O address,
interrupt request (IRQ) and operation mode of the
parallel port.
If operation mode is set to ECP, the direct memory
access (DMA) channel of the parallel port is set to 1.

Chapter 2

Enabled or Disabled
378h, 278h, or 3BCh
7 or 5
Bi-directional, ECP, EPP or
Standard

33

System Security
The System Security screen contains parameters that help safeguard and protect your computer from
unauthorized use.

The following table describes the parameters in this screen. Settings in boldface are the default and
suggested parameter settings.

Parameter

Description

Options

Setup Password

When set, this password protects the computer and the BIOS
Utility from unauthorized entry. See the following section for
instructions on how to set a password.

None or Present

Power-on Password

When set, this password protects the computer from

unauthorized entry. See the following section for instructions
on how to set a password.

None or Present

Hard Disk Password

When set, this password protects the hard disk from

unauthorized access. See the following section for
instructions on how to set a password.

None or Present

Processor Serial Number

The Pentium III processor includes a unique serial number

which allows individual CPUs to be identified. You can turn off
this feature by setting this parameter to Disabled. This one is
not available in the model with Celeron processor.

Enabled or Disabled

Setting a Password
Follow these steps:
1.

Use the cursor up/down keys to highlight a Password parameter (Setup, Power-on or Hard Disk) and
press the Enter key. The password box appears:

2.

Type a password. The password may consist of up to eight characters (A-Z, a-z, 0-9).

IMPORTANT:Be very careful when typing your password because the characters do not appear on the
screen.

34

3.

Press Enter. Retype the password to verify your first entry and press Enter.

4.

After setting the password, the computer automatically sets the chosen password parameter to Present.

Chapter 2

Three password types protect your computer from unauthorized access. Setting these passwords creates
several different levels of protection for your computer and data:

T
T
T

Setup Password prevents unauthorized entry to the BIOS Utility. Once set, you must key-in this
password to gain access to the BIOS Utility.
Power-On Password secures your computer against unauthorized use. Combine the use of this
password with password checkpoints on boot-up and resume from hibernation for maximum
security.
Hard Disk Password protects your data by preventing unauthorized access to your hard disk.
Even if the hard disk is removed from the computer and moved to another computer, it cannot be
accessed without the Hard Disk Password.

When a password is set, a password prompt appears on the left-hand corner of the display screen.
1.

When the Setup Password is set, the following prompt appears when you press F2 to enter the BIOS
Utility at boot-up.

Type the Setup Password and press Enter to access the BIOS Utility.
2.

When the Power-on Password is set, the following prompt appears at boot-up.

Type the Power-on Password (a symbol appears for each character you type) and press Enter to use the
computer. If you enter the password incorrectly, an x symbol appears. Try again and press Enter.
3.

When the Hard Disk Password is set, the following prompt appears at boot-up.

Type the Hard Disk Password (a symbol appears for each character you type) and press Enter to use the
computer. If you enter the password incorrectly, an x symbol appears. Try again and press Enter.
You have three chances to enter a password. If you successfully entered the password, the following symbol
appears.

If you fail to enter the password correctly after three tries, the following message or symbol appears.

To change a password, follow the same steps used to set a password.

To remove a password, follow the same steps used to set a password, except type nothing in the password
boxes.

Chapter 2

35

Load Default Settings

If you want to restore all parameter settings to their default values, select this menu item and press Enter. The
following dialog box displays.

If you would like to load default settings for all parameters, use the cursor left/right () keys to select Yes;
then press Enter. Choose No if otherwise.

36

Chapter 2

BIOS Flash Utility

The BIOS flash memory update is required for the following conditions:

T
T

New versions of system programs

New features or options

Use the AFlash utility to update the system BIOS flash ROM.
NOTE: Do not install memory-related drivers (XMS, EMS, DPMI) when you use AFlash.
NOTE: This program contains a readme.txt file. This readme.txt file will introduce on how to use AFlash utility.

Executing Flash Program

IMPORTANT:If this diskette is not bootable, do the following actions before you use it:
1.

Create a bootable disk.

2.

Copy all AFlash files into this bootable diskette.

3.

Put the bootable disk into TravelMate 520 series module, then reboot.

IMPORTANT:Never turn off the system power while Flash BIOS is programming. This will damage your
system.
4. After Flash BIOS is done, reboot the system.
NOTE: If there are any problems occurred during BIOS update, see Index of PQA Diagnostic Error Code,
Message on page 81 for troubleshooting.

Chapter 2

37

System Utility Diskette

This utility diskette is for the Acer TravelMate 520 notebook machine. It provides the following functions:
1.

Panel ID Utility

2.

Thermal & Fan Utility

3.

Main Board Data Utility

To use this diskette, first boot from this diskette, then a Microsoft Windows 98 Startup Menu prompt you to
choose the testing item. Follow the instructions on screen to proceed.
NOTE: This program contains a readme.txt file. This readme.txt file will introduce each test utility and its
functions.
IMPORTANT:If this diskette is not bootable, do the following actions before you use it:
1.

Do system transfers.

2.

Copy the following files to A:\.

HIMEM.SYS
RAMDRIVE.SYS

Panel ID Read/ Write Utility

1.

Panel ID Read

This function will display the panel ID setting of Acer TravelMate 520 series, there maybe no values in inverter
if no ID was found.
2.

Panel ID Write

This function will display a table of all panel IDs of Acer TravelMate 520 series, and ask to input the no.
corresponding to the panel ID of the LCD. Then, the chosen ID will be set in EEPROM.

Thermal test Utility

1.

Read thermal setting

This function will show the current thermal setting of your system and CPU which include the status, current
local temp, remote temp, conversion and configuration.
2.

Set thermal setting

This function will write the default values into EEPROM.

3.

Test fan

This function will test the fan.

Error message will be displayed when problem is found.

Main Board Data Utility

1.

Read Main Board Data.

This function displays the MBD data.

2.

Create MBD header, product & manufacturer names.

This function will create three informations and write to EEPROM automatically:

3.

a.

Header information

b.

Product name

c.

Manufacturer name

Write MBD UUID

There are two sub-functions:

a.

38

Create and write a new UUID - this function is used when the original UUID is lost or damaged.

Chapter 2

b.
4.

Write UUID by user keyin - this function is used when the original UUID is kept. User may use Read
Main Board Data function first to keep the UUID.

Write MBD serial number - this function will write MBD serial number by user keyin.

Chapter 2

39

System Diagnostic Diskette

IMPORTANT: 1The diagnostics program here that we used is called PQA (Product Quality Assurance) and is
provided by Acer Headquarters. You can utilize it as a basic diagnostic tool. To get this program,
either download it from http://csd.acer.com.tw or find it in the TravelMate 520 service CD kit.
To better fit local service requirements, your regional office MAY have other diagnostic program.
Please contact your regional offices or the responsible personnel/channel to provide you with further
technical details.
NOTE: This program contains a readme.txt file. This readme.txt file will introduce each test and its functions.
This diagnostic program is designed to perform the following diagnostic tools for Acer TravelMate 520
notebook machine. It provides the following functions.
1.

PQA System Diagnostics

2.

Audio Resource and Loopback Test

3.

IR Test

4.

USB Register and Connect/ Disconnect Test

To use this diskette, first boot from this diskette, then a Microsoft Windows 98 Startup Menu prompts you to
choose the testing item. Follow the instructions on screen to proceed.
IMPORTANT:If this diskette is not bootable, do the following actions before you use it:
1.

Do system transfers.

2.

Copy the following files to A:\

HIMEM.SYS
RAMDRIVE.SYS
CHOICE.COM
MSCDEX.EXE

PQA System Diagnostics

NOTE: This PQA diagnostics program will test Acer TravelMate 520 notebook series hardware peripherals.
1.

When you select One Test, Test command (F2 key) will only work in the first-level menu (Item Test), if you
are in sub-level menu, please press ESC to return to upper-level (Item Test) menu.

2.

Use Space Bar to select/ deselect a testing item.

3.

When testing is done, there will be a testing report, where you could find out whether the testing is
successful or not.

Audio Resource and Speaker-Out Test

This function will test Audio Resource and Loopback of Acer TravelMate 520 notebook series. You will see
PASS when test is successful.
You need Loopbacker when you choose Loopback Test. Please put Loopbacker in Line-in, Line-out and
Micro-in. You will see PASS when test is successful.

Infrared Ray (IR) Test

This function will test Infrared Ray of Acer TravelMate 520 series. Following are the steps:
1.

You must prepare a reflect server (another Acer TravelMate 520 notebook) which can reply to testing unit
the communicated data.

2.

Prepare a bootable disk for the server, choose Make a Host Disk.

3.

Insert the Host disk in Host Server, then reboot.

40

New added description. Please pay attention to it.

Chapter 2

4.

Type Host to run Host server first.

5.

If there is no reflect server, the test program will show IR FAIL.

USB Register and Connect/ Disconnect Test

This function will test USB Register and Connect/Disconnect of TravelMate 520 notebook series.
1.

Register test (USBCMD, USBINTR, FRNNUM, FLBASEADD, SOF) - test its own USB internal circuit.

2.

UHCI/ OHCI test utility

a.

Please prepare a USB device such as USB mouse, USB keyboard or USB modem, and leave the
USB port disconnected. (Dont connect first)

b.

Program will dynamically detect the incoming device for two times, please plug the USB connector in
USB port first, then plug it out. (Connect one time, disconnect one time)

c.

The test program will show the account of connected/ disconnected, if every steps was doing right,
the screen will show PASS, otherwise show FAIL.

Running PQA Diagnostics Program

PQA

Vx_x

Result

Diag

SysInfo

Option

xx-xx-xx

Exit

Press to move around the main menu. Press Enter to enable the selected option. The main options are
Diag, Result, SysInfo, Option and Exit.
The Diag option lets you select testing items and times.
The following screen appears when you select Diag from the main menu.

PQA

Vx_x

Result

Diag

SysInfo

Option

xx-xx-xx

Exit

Diag
ONE
MULTI
FULL
QUICK

TEST
TEST
TEST
TEST

One Test performs a single test and Manual checks the selected test items in sequence.
Multi Test performs multiple tests of the selected items and check the selected test items in sequence.

Chapter 2

41

Full Test performs all test items in detail for your system.
Quick Test performs all test items quickly for your system.
The screen below appears if you select Multi Test.

PQA
PQA

Diag
Diag

Vx_x
Vx_x

Result
Result
Diag
Diag

ONE
One
MULTI
Multi
FULL
QUICK

SysInfo
SysInfo

xx-xx-xx
xx-xx-xx

Option
Option

Exit
Exit

TEST
TEST
TEST
TEST
TEST
TEST

TEST COUNT VALUE (1...9999) 1

Specify the desired number of tests and press Enter.

After you specify the number of tests to perform, the screen shows a list of test items (see below).

PQA

Result
Diag
Diag
Items
MANUALTest
TEST
[ ] System
AUTO
TESTBoard
[ ] Memory
[ ] Keyboard
[ ] Video
[ ] Parallel Port
[ ] Serial Port
[ ] Diskette Drive
[ ] Hard Disk
[ ] CD-ROM
[ ] Coprocessor
[ ] Pointing Dev.
[ ] Cache

Vx_x

SysInfo

Option

xx-xx-xx

Exit

SPACE: mark/unmark selecting item

ESC : return to upper menu
F2
: test the marked item(s)
ENTER: open sub-items menu
Test Times = 1

Move the highlight bar from one item to another. Press Space to enable or disable the item. Press Enter to
view the available options of each selected item. Press Esc to close the submenu.
The right corner screen information gives you the available function keys and the specified test number.

T
T
T
T
T
T

Space: Enables/disables the item

ESC: Exits the program
F1: Help
F2: Tests the selected item(s)
Enter: Opens the available options

Test Times: Indicates the number of tests to perform.

NOTE: The F1 and F2 keys function only after you finish configuring the Test option.
NOTE: When any errors are detected by diagnostic program, refer to Index of PQA Diagnostic Error Code,
Message on page 81 for troubleshooting.

42

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Machine Disassembly and Replacement

This chapter contains step-by-step procedures on how to disassemble the notebook computer for
maintenance and troubleshooting.
To disassemble the computer, you need the following tools:
!

Wrist grounding strap and conductive mat for preventing electrostatic discharge

Flat-bladed screw driver

Phillips screw driver

Tweezers

Flat-bladed screw driver or plastic stick

NOTE: The screws for the different components vary in size. During the disassembly process, group the
screws with the corresponding components to avoid mismatch when putting back the components.

Chapter 3

43

General Information
Before You Begin
Before proceeding with the disassembly procedure, make sure that you do the following:

44

1.

Turn off the power to the system and all peripherals.

2.

Unplug the AC adapter and all power and signal cables from the system.

Chapter 3

Disassembly Procedure Flowchart

The flowchart on the succeeding page gives you a graphic representation on the entire disassembly sequence
and instructs you on the components that need to be removed during servicing. For example, if you want to
remove the system board, you must first remove the keyboard, then disassemble the inside assembly frame in
that order.

START

BATTERY

CDROM
MODULE

DIMM
COVER

MIDDLE
COVER

COMBO
MODULE
COVER

HINGE
CAP

HDD
MODULE

INVERTER
CABLE

LCD COAXIAL
CABLE

KEYBOARD

LCD CABLE
COVER

LCD MODULE

MAIN UNIT

TOUCH
PAD

LCD BEZEL

SPEAKER

INVERTER

INVERTER
CABLE

Chapter 3

LCD COXIAL
CABLE

LCD

LCD BRACKET

45

MAIN UNIT

CPU HEATSINK
PLATE

UPPER CASE

CPU HEATSINK

FDD MODULE

CHARGER PLATE

FAN

MAIN BOARD

LOWER CASE

46

PCMCIA SOCKET

CPU

AUDIO BOARD

Chapter 3

Removing the Battery Pack

1.

To remove the battery pack, push the battery release button inward.

2.

Slide the battery pack out from the machine.

Removing the Battery Cover

1.

To remove the battery cover, press the cover on this side outward carefully, then remove the cover.

Chapter 3

47

Removing the CD-ROM Drive Module

1.

To remove the CD-ROM drive module, push the release button outward.

2.

Slide it out from the machine.

Disassembling the CD-ROM Drive Module

48

1.

To disassemble the CD-ROM drive module, first remove the four screws as shown.

2.

Remove the CD-ROM drive module from the CD-ROM drive chassis.

3.

Remove the two screws from the CD-ROM board, then remove the CD-ROM board from the CD-ROM
drive.

Chapter 3

Removing the Hard Disk Drive Module

1.

To remove the hard disk drive, first remove the hard disk drive cover screw, then remove the cover.

2.

Remove the hard disk drive module out from the machine carefully.

Disassembling the Hard Disk Drive Module

1.

To disassemble the hard disk drive module, first remove the two screws from the hard disk drive bracket.

2.

Slide the hard disk drive out from the hard disk drive bracket.

3.

Remove the hard disk drive connector from the hard disk drive.

Chapter 3

49

Removing the Extended Memory

50

1.

To remove an extended memory from the machine, first remove the screw from the memory cover.

2.

Push the memory cover leftward to lift the cover off, then remove the memory cover.

3.

Push out the latches on both sides of the socket, and pull the memory module out from the socket.

Chapter 3

Removing the Modem Board

1.

To remove the modem board, first remove the screw from the modem cover.

2.

Remove the modem cover from the machine.

3.

Remove the two screws from the modem board as shown, use a plastic bladed screwdriver to remove the
modem board from the main unit.

4.

At CN26, disconnect the modem cable from the modem board, then remove the modem board.

Chapter 3

51

Disassembling the LCD

Removing the Hinge Cap
1.

To remove the hinge cap, push the hinge cap outward, then slide the hinge cap out from the main unit.

Removing the Middle Cover

1.

To remove the middle cover, push the middle cover rightward and lift the middle cover away.

2.

Disconnect the launch board cable from the launch board.

3.

Remove the two screws from the launch board as shown, then remove the launch board from the middle
cover.

Removing the Keyboard

1.

52

To remove the keyboard, pull out and upward to expose the keyboard.

Chapter 3

2.

At CNX2, disconnect the keyboard cable from the main board carefully, then remove the keyboard from
the main board.

3.

At CN10, disconnect the launch board cable from the main board, then remove it.

Removing the Cable Cover

1.

To remove the cable cover, push the cable cover backward then pull the cover off gently.

Removing the LCD Module

1.

To remove the LCD module, first remove the two screws from the rear of the unit and the two screws from
the base of the unit as shown.

Chapter 3

53

2.

At CN9, remove the two screws from the LCD FPC cable, and then disconnect the LCD FPC cable from
the main board.

3.

At CN8, disconnect the inverter cable from the main board.

4.

Remove the LCD module from the main unit.

5.

Remove the video capture kit cover from the LCD module on each side.

6.

Remove the three LCD cushions as shown, next remove the three screws from the LCD bezel.

NOTE: If you have 12.1 or 13.3 LCD, you need to remove five LCD cushions and five screws.

54

Chapter 3

7.

Snap off the LCD bezel carefully, then remove the LCD bezel from the LCD module.

Removing the Inverter Board

1.

To remove the inverter board, remove the two screws from the inverter board as shown.

2.

Disconnect the speaker cables, microphone cable and LCD power cable from the inverter board, then
remove the inverter board.

3.

Disconnect the inverter cable from the inverter board.

Chapter 3

55

Removing the Speakers

56

1.

Remove the two screws from the speakers as shown, then remove the speakers from the LCD module..

2.

Remove the four screws from the LCD, then detach the LCD diaper from the LCD.

3.

Remove the LCD from the LCD panel.

4.

Remove the ESD tape, then disconnect the LCD FPC cable from the LCD.

Chapter 3

Removing the Microphone

1.

Remove the microphone from the LCD.

Chapter 3

57

Disassembling the Upper Case

Removing the Floppy Disk Drive Module
1.

To remove the floppy disk drive module, first remove the screw from the upper case.

2.

At CNX1, disconnect the floppy disk drive cable from the main unit, then pull the floppy disk drive module
out from the main unit carefully.

Disassembling the Floppy Disk Drive Module

58

1.

To disassemble the floppy disk drive module, remove the two screws from the floppy disk drive bracket.

2.

Remove the bracket from the drive.

Chapter 3

3.

Disconnect the floppy disk drive FPC cable from the drive.

4.

To remove the floppy disk drive bezel, remove the cushion from the drive, and then detach the bezel from
the drive carefully.

Removing the CPU Heatsink Plate

1.

Remove the two screws from the CPU heatsink plate, then pull the CPU heatsink plate backward then
rightward from the main unit.

Removing the RTC Battery

1.

Use the flat bladed screwdriver to remove the RTC battery gently.

Chapter 3

59

2.

Reinstall the RTC battery back into position by pressing it down to secure.

Removing the Upper Case

60

1.

To remove the upper case, remove the eight screws from the base of the unit as shown.

2.

At CN16, disconnect the touchpad cable from the main board.

3.

Pull the upper case up from rear to front of the unit gently.

4.

Remove the touchpad frame from the upper case carefully.

5.

Remove the touchpad scroll button from the upper case.

Chapter 3

6.

Disconnect the touchpad cable from the touchpad board, then remove the touchpad board from the upper
case.

7.

Remove the touchpad cable from the upper case carefully.

Chapter 3

61

Disassembling the Lower Case

Removing the CPU Heatsink
1.

Remove the four screws from the CPU heatsink.

2.

Remove the CPU heatsink from the main unit.

Removing the CPU

1.

To remove the CPU, use a flat bladed screwdriver to release the screw carefully, then remove the CPU
from the CPU socket.

Removing the Charger Plate

1.

Remove the screw from the charger plate, then remove the charger plate from the main board.

Removing the Main Board

1.

62

Remove the three screws from the main board as shown.

Chapter 3

2.

At CN11, disconnect the fan cable from the main board.

3.

Pull the battery connector and audio jack out to remove the main board from the lower case.

Removing the Fan

1.

Remove the screw from the fan, then remove the fan from the lower case.

2.

Detach the audio board from the main board.

Chapter 3

63

Removing the PCMCIA Slot

1.

Remove the two screws from the PCMCIA plate to remove the plate.

2.

At CN13, remove the two screws from the PCMCIA slot, then detach the PCMCIA slot from the main
board by hand gently.

Removing the I/O Bracket

64

1.

Remove the six hexed screws and the two screws from the I/O bracket.

2.

Remove the I/O bracket from the main board.

Chapter 3

Removing the Modem Cable

1.

At CN21 and CN22, disconnect the modem cable from the main board, then remove the modem cable
from the main board.

Chapter 3

65

66

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Troubleshooting
Use the following procedure as a guide for computer problems.
NOTE: The diagnostic tests are intended to test only Acer products. Non-Acer products, prototype cards, or
modified options can give false errors and invalid system responses.
1.

Obtain the failing symptoms in as much detail as possible.

2.

Verify the symptoms by attempting to re-create the failure by running the diagnostic test or by repeating
the same operation.

3.

Use the following table with the verified symptom to determine which page to go to.
Symptoms (Verified)

Go To

Power failure. (The power indicator does not go on or

stay on.)

Power System check

POST does not complete. No beep or error codes are

indicated.

Symptom-to-FRU Index

POST detects an error and displayed messages on

screen.

Error Messages List

The diagnostic test detected an error and displayed a

FRU code.

Running PQA Diagnostic Program

Undetermined Problems

Other symptoms (i.e. LCD display problems or others). Error Symptom-to-FRU Index
Symptoms cannot be re-created (intermittent
problems).

Use the customer-reported symptoms and go to Error

Symptom-to-FRU Index.
Intermittent Problems
Undetermined Problems

Chapter 4

67

System Check Procedures

Diskette Drive Check
Do the following to isolate the problem to a controller, driver, cable or diskette. A write-enabled, diagnostic
diskette is required.
NOTE: Make sure that the diskette does not have more than one label attached to it. Multiple labels can cause
damage to the drive or cause the drive to fail.
Do the following to select the test device.
1.

Boot from the diagnostics diskette and start the PQA program.

2.

Go to the diagnostic Diskette Drive in the test items.

3.

Press F2 in the test items.

4.

Follow the instructions in the message window.

If an error occurs with the internal diskette drive, reconnect the diskette connector on the system board.
If the error still remains:
1.

Reconnect the diskette drive.

2.

Replace the diskette driver cable.

3.

Replace the diskette drive.

4.

Replace the system board.

CD-ROM Drive Check

Do the following to isolate the problem to a controller, drive, cable, or CD-ROM. Make sure that the CD-ROM
does not have any label attached to it. The label can cause damage to the drive or can cause the drive to fail.
Do the following to select the test device:
1.

Boot from the diagnostics diskette and start the PQA program.

2.

Go to the diagnostic CD-ROM in the test items.

3.

Press F2 in the test items.

4.

Follow the instructions in the message window.

If an error occurs, reconnect the connector on the System board. If the error still remains:
1.

Reconnect the CD-ROM drive.

2.

Replace the diskette driver cable.

3.

Replace the CD-ROM drive.

4.

Replace the system board.

Keyboard or Auxiliary Input Device Check

Remove the external keyboard if the internal keyboard is to be tested.
If the internal keyboard does not work or an unexpected character appears, make sure that the flexible cable
extending from the keyboard is correctly seated in the connector on the system board.
If the keyboard cable connection is correct, run the Keyboard Test. See Running the Diagnostics for details.
If the tests detect a keyboard problem, do the following one at a time to correct the problem. (Do not replace a
non-defective FRU):

68

1.

Reconnect the keyboard cables.

2.

Replace the keyboard.

3.

Replace the system board.

Chapter 4

The following auxiliary input devices are supported by this computer:

T
T

Numeric keypad
External keyboard

If any of these devices do not work, reconnect the cable connector and repeat the failing operation.

Memory Check
Memory errors might stop system operations, show error messages on the screen, or hang the system.
1.

Boot from the diagnostics diskette and start the PQA program (please refer to Running PQA Diagnostics
Program).

2.

Go to the diagnostic memory in the test items.

3.

Press F2 in the test items.

4. Follow the instructions in the message window.

NOTE: Make sure that the DIMM is fully installed into the connector. A loose connection can cause an error.

Power System Check

To verify the symptom of the problem, power on the computer using each of the following power sources:
1.

Remove the battery pack.

2.

Connect the power adapter and check that power is supplied.

3.

Disconnect the power adapter and install the charged battery pack; then check that power is supplied by
the battery pack.

If you suspect a power problem, see the appropriate power supply check in the following list:

T
T

Check the Power Adapter

Check the Battery Pack

Check the Power Adapter

Unplug the power adapter cable from the computer and measure the output voltage at the plug of the power
adapter cable. See the following figure

Pin 1: +19 to +20.5V

Pin 2: 0V, Ground

1.

If the voltage is not correct, replace the power adapter.

2.

If the voltage is within the range, do the following:

T
T
T

Replace the System board.

If the problem is not corrected, see Undetermined Problems.

If the voltage is not correct, go to the next step.

NOTE: An audible noise from the power adapter does not always indicate a defect.
3.

If the power problem occurs only when the port replicator is used, replace the port replicator.

4.

If the power-on indicator does not light up, check the power cord of the power adapter for correct
continuity and installation.

5.

If the operational charge does not work, see Check the Battery Pack.

Chapter 4

69

Check the Battery Pack

To check the battery pack, do the following:
1.

Power off the computer.

2.

Remove the battery pack and measure the voltage between battery terminals 1(+) and 7(ground). See the
following figure

3.

If the voltage is still less than 8.0 Vdc after recharging, replace the battery.

To check the battery charge operation, use a discharged battery pack or a battery pack that has less than 50%
of the total power remaining when installed in the computer.
If the battery status indicator does not light up, remove the battery pack and let it return to room temperature.
Re-install the battery pack.
If the charge indicator still does not light up, replace the battery pack. If the charge indicator still does not light
up, replace the system board.

Touchpad Check
If the touchpad doesnt work, do the following actions one at a time to correct the problem. Do not replace a
non-defective FRU:
1.

Reconnect the touchpad cables.

2.

Replace the touchpad cables.

3.

Replace the touchpad.

4.

Replace the system board.

After you use the touchpad, the pointer drifts on the screen for a short time. This self-acting pointer movement
can occur when a slight, steady pressure is applied to the touchpad pointer. This symptom is not a hardware
problem. No service actions are necessary if the pointer movement stops in a short period of time.

70

Chapter 4

Index of Error Message

The symptom-to-FRU index lists the symptoms and errors and their possible causes. The most likely cause is
listed first.
NOTE: Perform the FRU replacement or actions in the sequence shown in FRU/Action column, if the FRU
replacement does not solve the problem, put the original part back in the computer. Do not replace a
non-defective FRU.
This index can also help you determine the next possible FRU to be replaced when servicing a computer.
If the symptom is not listed, Undetermined Problems on page 79.
The following lists the error messages that the BIOS displays on the screen and the error symptoms classified
by function.
NOTE: Most of the error messages occur during POST. Some of them display information about a hardware
device, e.g., the amount of memory installed. Others may indicate a problem with a device, such as the
way it has been configured.
NOTE: If the system fails after you make changes in the BIOS Setup Utility menus, reset the computer, enter
Setup and install Setup defaults or correct the error
Error Messages List
Error Messages
Failure Fixed Disk

Action in Sequence
Reconnect hard disk drive connector.
Load Default Settings in BIOS Setup Utility.
Hard disk drive
System board

Stuck Key

Keyboard or Auxiliary Input Device Check .

Keyboard error

Keyboard or Auxiliary Input Device Check.

Keyboard Controller Failed

Keyboard or Auxiliary Input Device Check.

Keyboard locked - Unlock key switch

Unlock external keyboard.

Monitor type does not match CMOS - Run Setup

Run Load Default Settings in BIOS Setup Utility.

Shadow RAM Failed at offset: nnnn

BIOS ROM
System board

System RAM Failed at offset: nnnn

DIMM
System board

Extended RAM Failed at offset: nnnn

DIMM

System battery is dead - Replace and run Setup

Replace RTC battery and Run BIOS Setup Utility to

reconfigure system time, then reboot system.

System CMOS checksum bad - Default configuration

used

RTC battery

System board

System timer error

Run BIOS Setup Utility to reconfigure system time,

then reboot system.
RTC battery
Run BIOS Setup Utility to reconfigure system time,
then reboot system.
System board

Real time clock error

RTC battery
Run BIOS Setup Utility to reconfigure system time,
then reboot system.
System board

Previous boot incomplete - Default configuration used

Run Load Default Settings in BIOS Setup Utility.

RTC battery
System board

Chapter 4

71

Error Messages List

Error Messages
Memory size found by POST differed from CMOS

Action in Sequence
Run Load Default Settings in BIOS Setup Utility.
DIMM
System board

Diskette drive A error

Check that the drive is defined with the proper diskette

type in BIOS Setup Utility.
Diskette Drive Check.

Incorrect Drive A type - run SETUP

Check that the drive is defined with the proper diskette

type in BIOS Setup Utility
Diskette Drive Check.

System cache error - Cache disabled

CPU board
System board

CPU ID

CPU board
System board

DMA Test Failed

DIMM
CPU board
System board

Software NMI Failed

DIMM
CPU board
System board

Fail-Safe Timer NMI Failed

DIMM
CPU board
System board

Device Address Conflict

Run Load Default Settings in BIOS Setup Utility.

RTC battery
System board

Allocation Error for device

Run Load Default Settings in BIOS Setup Utility.

RTC battery
System board

Failing Bits: nnnn

DIMM
BIOS ROM
System board

Fixed Disk n
Invalid System Configuration Data

None
BIOS ROM
System board

I/O device IRQ conflict

Run Load Default Settings in BIOS Setup Utility.

RTC battery
System board

Operating system not found

Enter Setup and see if fixed disk and drive A are

properly identified.
Diskette drive
Hard disk drive
System board

72

Chapter 4

No-Beep Symptoms
Symptom / Error
No beep, power-on indicator turns off and LCD is
blank.

Action in Sequence
Power source (battery pack and power adapter).
Power System Check.
Ensure every connector is connected tightly and
correctly.
Reconnect the DIMM.
CPU board
System board.

No beep, power-on indicator turns on and LCD is

blank.

Power source (battery pack and power adapter).

Power System Check.
Reconnect the LCD connectors
Hard disk drive
LCD inverter ID
LCD cable
Inverter
LCD
System board

No beep, power-on indicator turns on and LCD is

blank. But you can see POST on an external CRT.

Reconnect the LCD connectors.

LCD inverter ID
LCD cable
LCD inverter
LCD
System board

No beep, power-on indicator turns on and a blinking

cursor shown on LCD during POST.

Ensure every connector is connected tightly and

correctly.
System board

No beep during POST but system runs correctly.

Speaker
Audio board
System board

Chapter 4

73

Index of Symptom-to-FRU Error Message

LCD-Related Symptoms
Symptom / Error
LCD backlight doesn't work

Action in Sequence

LCD is too dark

Enter BIOS Utility to execute Load Setup Default

Settings, then reboot system.

LCD brightness cannot be adjusted

Reconnect the LCD connectors.

LCD contrast cannot be adjusted

Keyboard (if contrast and brightness function key

doesn't work).
LCD inverter ID
LCD cable
LCD inverter
LCD
System board

Unreadable LCD screen

Reconnect the LCD connectors.

Missing pels in characters

LCD inverter ID

Abnormal screen

LCD cable

Wrong color displayed

LCD inverter
LCD
System board

LCD has extra horizontal or vertical lines displayed.

LCD inverter ID
LCD inverter
LCD cable
LCD
System board

Indicator-Related Symptoms
Symptom / Error
Indicator incorrectly remains off or on, but system runs
correctly.

Action in Sequence
Reconnect the LED board
LED board
System board

Power-Related Symptoms
Symptom / Error
Power shuts down during operation.

Action in Sequence
Power source (battery pack and power adapter).
Power System Check.
Battery pack
Power adapter
Audio board
System board

The system doesnt power-on.

Power source (battery pack and power adapter).

Power System Check.
Battery pack
Power adapter
Audio board
System board

The system doesnt power-off.

Power source (battery pack and power adapter).

Power System Check.
Hold and press the power switch for more than 4
seconds.
System board

74

Chapter 4

Power-Related Symptoms
Symptom / Error
Battery cant be charged

Action in Sequence
Power System Check
Battery pack
System board

PCMCIA-Related Symptoms
Symptom / Error
System cannot detect the PC Card (PCMCIA)

Action in Sequence
PCMCIA slot assembly
System board

PCMCIA slot pin is damaged.

PCMCIA slot assembly

Memory-Related Symptoms
Symptom / Error

Action in Sequence

Memory count (size) appears different from actual size. Enter BIOS Setup Utility to execute Load Default
Settings, then reboot system.
DIMM
System board

Speaker-Related Symptoms
Symptom / Error
In DOS or Windows, multimedia programs, no sound
comes from the computer.

Action in Sequence
Press Fn-F8, Speaker ON/OFF control.
Audio driver
Speaker
Audio board
System board

Internal speakers make noise or emit no sound.

Press Fn-F8, Speaker ON/OFF control.

Speaker
Audio board
System board

Power Management-Related Symptoms

Symptom / Error
The system will not enter hibernation

Action in Sequence
Keyboard (if control is from the keyboard)
Hard disk drive
System board
Check with Sleep Manager.

The system doesn't enter hibernation mode and four

short beeps every minute.

Hibernation Mode
Press Fn+F4 and see if the computer enters
hibernation mode.
Touchpad
Keyboard
Hard disk connection board
Hard disk drive
System board

The system doesnt enter standby mode after closing

the LCD

Standby Mode
LCD cover switch
System board

The system doesn't resume from hibernation mode.

Hibernation Mode
Hard disk connection board
Hard disk drive
System board

Chapter 4

75

Power Management-Related Symptoms

Symptom / Error

Action in Sequence

The system doesn't resume from standby mode after

opening the LCD.

Standby Mode

Battery fuel gauge in Windows doesnt go higher than

90%.

Remove battery pack and let it cool for 2 hours.

LCD cover switch

System board
Refresh battery (continue to use battery until power off,
then charge battery).
Battery pack
Charger board
System board

System hangs intermittently.

Set Thermal Sensor Threshold.

Reconnect hard disk/CD-ROM drives.
Hard disk connection board
System board

Peripheral-Related Symptoms
Symptom / Error
System configuration does not match the installed
devices.

Action in Sequence
Enter BIOS Setup Utility to execute Load Default
Settings, then reboot system.
Reconnect hard disk/CD-ROM/diskette drives.

External display does not work correctly.

Press Fn+F5, LCD/CRT/Both display switching

Running PQA Diagnostics Program.
System board

USB does not work correctly.

System Diagnostics Diskette

System board

Print problems.

Ensure that the Parallel Port in the Onboard Devices

Configuration of BIOS Setup Utility is set to Enabled.
Onboard Devices Configuration
Run printer self-test.
Printer driver
Printer cable
Printer
System Board

Serial or parallel port device problems.

Ensure that the Serial Port in the Onboard Devices

Configuration of BIOS Setup Utility is set to Enabled.
Device driver
Device cable
Device
System board

Keyboard/Touchpad-Related Symptoms
Symptom / Error
Keyboard (one or more keys) does not work.

Action in Sequence
Reconnect the keyboard cable.
Keyboard
System board

Touchpad does not work.

Reconnect touchpad cable.

Touchpad board
System board

76

Chapter 4

Modem-Related Symptoms
Symptom / Error
Internal modem does not work correctly.

Action in Sequence
System Diagnostics Diskette
Modem phone jack
Modem board
System board

NOTE: If you cannot find a symptom or an error in this list and the problem remains, see Undetermined
Problems on page 79.

Chapter 4

77

Intermittent Problems
Intermittent system hang problems can be caused by a variety of reasons that have nothing to do with a
hardware defect, such as: cosmic radiation, electrostatic discharge, or software errors. FRU replacement
should be considered only when a recurring problem exists.
When analyzing an intermittent problem, do the following:

78

1.

Run the advanced diagnostic test for the system board in loop mode at least 10 times.

2.

If no error is detected, do not replace any FRU.

3.

If any error is detected, replace the FRU. Rerun the test to verify that there are no more errors.

Chapter 4

Undetermined Problems
The diagnostic problems does not identify which adapter or device failed, which installed devices are incorrect,
whether a short circuit is suspected, or whether the system is inoperative.
Follow these procedures to isolate the failing FRU (do not isolate non-defective FRU).
NOTE: Verify that all attached devices are supported by the computer.
NOTE: Verify that the power supply being used at the time of the failure is operating correctly.
1.

Power-off the computer.

2.

Visually check them for damage. If any problems are found, replace the FRU.

3.

Remove or disconnect all of the following devices:

T
T
T
T
T
T
T
T
T

Non-Acer devices
Devices attached to the port replicator
Printer, mouse, and other external devices
Battery pack
Hard disk drive
DIMM
CD-ROM
Diskette drive
PC Cards

4.

Power-on the computer.

5.

Determine if the problem has changed.

6.

If the problem does not recur, reconnect the removed devices one at a time until you find the failing FRU.

7.

If the problem remains, replace the following FRU one at a time. Do not replace a non-defective FRU:

T
T

Chapter 4

System board
LCD assembly

79

Index of AFlash BIOS Error Message

Error Message

80

Action in Sequence

Hardware Error

See System Diagnostic Diskette on page 40

BIOS Update Program Error

Turn off the power and restart the system.

System Error

Make sure this AFlash BIOS diskette for this model.

Without AC adapter

make sure to connect AC adapter

Battery Low

make sure to install a highly charged battery, and reboot

system.

Chapter 4

Index of PQA Diagnostic Error Code, Message

Error Code

Message

Action in Sequence

16XXX

Backup battery error

Backup battery

01XXX

CPU or main board error

Reload BIOS default setting.

System board

02XXX

Memory error

DIMM
System board

03XXX

Keyboard error

Reset Keyboard
Keyboard
System board

04XXX

Video error

System board

05XXX

Parallel Port error

System board

06XXX

Serial port or main board error

System board

07XXX

Diskette drive error

Diskette drive
System board

08XXX

Hard disk error

Reload BIOS default setting

Hard disk
System board

09XXX

CD-ROM error

Reset CD-ROM cable

CD-ROM drive
System board

10XXX

Co-processor error

11XXX

Pointing device error

System board
Reset Keyboard
Keyboard
System board

12XXX

Chapter 4

Cache test error

System board

81

82

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Jumper and Connector Locations

Top View

PCB No. 99206

CN1

PS/2 keyboard and Mouse Port

CN12

CD-ROM Connector

CN2

External Display Port

CN13

PCMCIA Socket Connector

CN3

Parallel Port

CN16

Touch Pad Cable Connector

CN4

Serial Port

CN18

Hdd Connector

CN5

USB Port 1

CNX1

Diskette Drive Connector

CN6

USB Port 2

CNX2

Keyboard Cable Connector

CN7

Expansion Port

CNX3

Digital finger Print Sensor Connector

(For castor only)

CN8

LED & Inverter Connector

CNX4

TV BD Connector

CN9

LCD Connector

JK1

Modem / Lan Port

CN10

Cover Switch

JK2

DC-in Port

CN11

Launch Key Connector

SW1

Switch

Keyboard Switch Settings

SW-1

SW-2

SW-3

English

OFF

OFF

Reserved

Japanese

ON

OFF

Reserved

UK

OFF

ON

Reserved

English-International

OFF

OFF

Reserved

Chapter 5

83

SW-4/5
SW-4
Acer

OFF

SW-5
OFF

SW-6: Check Password

SW6 = OFF, Enable
SW-6 = ON, Disable

SW-7: Boot Block Boot

SW-7 = OFF, Disable
SW-7 = On, Enable

84

Chapter 5

Bottom View

CN21

Modem Card Cable Connector

CN22

Modem Card Cable Connector

CN26

Modem Connector

CN23

Power Push Switch

DM1

DIMM 1 Socket

CN24

Audio Connector

DM2

DIMM 2 Socket (Reverse)

Chapter 5

CN25

Battery Connector

85

86

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

FRU (Field Replaceable Unit) List

1

This chapter gives you the FRU (Field Replaceable Unit) listing in global configurations of TravelMate 520.
Refer to this chapter whenever ordering for parts to repair or for RMA (Return Merchandise Authorization).
Please note that WHEN ORDERING FRU PARTS, you should check the most up-to-date information available
on your regional web or channel. For whatever reasons a part number change is made, it will not be noted on
the printed Service Guide. For ACER AUTHORIZED SERVICE PROVIDERS, your Acer office may have a
DIFFERENT part number code from those given in the FRU list of this printed Service Guide. You MUST use
the local FRU list provided by your regional Acer office to order FRU parts for repair and service of customer
machines.
NOTE: To scrap or to return the defective parts, you should follow the local government ordinance or
regulations on how to dispose it properly, or follow the rules set by your regional Acer office on how to
return it.

The part number of the exploded drawing is for reference only, for the most updated information, please refer to the
Spare Parts List database.

Chapter 6

87

Picture

No.

Partname

Description

Part No.

CPU/ Processor
NS

CPU, PIII-500, INTEL

IC CPU COPPERM-500
UPGA2

01.COPRM.50A

CPU, PIII-600, INTEL

IC CPU COPP600 W/GEY

UPGA2

01.COPRM.60C

NS

DIMM,64M,PC100,
Siemens

SDIMM 64M
HYS64V8220GCDL-8B(SI

72.64820.B0N

NS

DIMM,64M,PC100,
Winbond

DIMM 64M 8*16

W17064IHNC86220

72.17064.00N

NS

LCD module

LCD
MODULE(HIT12.1")FL2.5

6M=65.41H01.001

LCD , 12.1" TFT,

HITACHI

LCD 12.1SVGA HIT/

TX31D35VCICCA

56.0740G.001

Inverter

INVERTER T62I172.00
FALCON2

19.21030.A41

Inverter cable

C.A
LED&INV(12.1"&13.3)FL2

50.40G06.001

LCD cable

COAXIAL CABLE(HIT12.1")

50.40G07.011

Memory

LCD

Chapter 6

89

Picture

90

No.

Partname

Description

Part No.

LCD bezel

LCD BEZEL ASSY(12.1")

60.40G11.001

10

LCD panel

LCD PANEL
ASSY(HIT12.1")FL2.5

60.41H02.001

NS

Hinge Bracket Pack

HINGE BRACKET PACK

6K=34.40G07.001+34.
40G08.001

Speaker

SPEAKER13.3& 12.1

60.40G12.011

NS

LCD module

LCD
MODULE(ADT14.1")F2.5

6M=65.41H01.041

LCD , 14.1" TFT, IBM

LCD 14.1"IBM/ITXG76C

56.0749C.051

Inverter

INVERTER T62I172.00
FALCON2

19.21030.A41

Inverter cable

C.A LED & INV(14.1")FL2.5

50.41H02.001

Chapter 6

Picture

No.

Partname

Description

Part No.

LCD cable

C.A
LCD(14.1"ADT&UNI)FL2.5

50.41H01.001

LCD bezel

LCD BEZEL ASSY(14.1")

60.41H03.001

LCD panel

LCD PNL
ASSY(ADT14.1")FL2.5

60.41H02.031

NS

Hinge Bracket Pack

HINGE BRACKET PACK

6K=34.41H01.001+34.4
1H02.001

8, 9

Speaker Pack

SPEAKER PACK

6K=60.41H04.001+60.4
1H05.001

NS

HDD module

ASSY HDD FALCON 2

6M=65.40G05.001

NS

HDD, 6G, IBM

HDD SM 9.5"6G IBM/

DARA206000

56.02A02.041

16

HDD Bracket

HDD ASSY(9.5mm)
BRACKET FALCON2

60.40G09.001

HDD/ Hard Disk Drive

Chapter 6

91

Picture

No.

Partname

Description

Part No.

NS

HDD Connector

CONN CTR ML 22P

HH98227-A2(HDD

20.80056.022

NS

HDD module

ASSY HDD 9.5" 12GB IBM

6M=65.40G05.021

NS

HDD,12G, IBM

HDD SM9.5"12G IBM/

DARA212K A51

56.02A24.002

16

HDD Bracket

HDD ASSY(9.5mm)
BRACKET FALCON2

60.40G09.001

NS

HDD Connector

CONN CTR ML 22P

HH98227-A2(HDD

20.80056.022

NS

FDD Module,
Panasonic

FDD (PANASONIC) ASSY

6M=65.40G04.001

NS

FDD Device, Panasonic FDD 1.44SLIM MCI/

JU226A252FC(H

FDD/ Floppy Disk Drive

92

56.01041.671

Chapter 6

Picture

No.

Partname

Description

Part No.

10

FDD Cable

C.A FDD FPC FALCON2

50.40G01.001

FDD Bracket

FDD REAR BRAKET

FALCON2

33.40G04.001

17

FDD Bezel

FDD BEZEL(PANASONIC)
ASSY

60.40G15.011

NS

CD-ROM
Module,24X,MKE

CD/DVD-ROM Module

6M=65.40G10.001

NS

CD-ROM
Device,24X,MKE

CD ROM 24X MKE/CR176BAA

56.10251.031

NS

CD-ROM Chassis
Assembly

CD/DVD-ROM ASSY

60.40G13.001

NS

CD-ROM Board

FALCON-2 CD-ROM BD

55.40G04.D01

CD-ROM Drive

Chapter 6

93

Picture

No.

Partname

Description

Part No.

NS

CD-ROM
Module,24X,TEAC

ASSY CDROM TEAC

FALCON2

6M=65.40G06.001

NS

CD-ROM
Device,24X,TEAC

CD ROM 24X SLIM TEAC/

CD224EB26

56.10061.211

NS

CD-ROM Chassis
Assembly

CD/DVD-ROM ASSY

60.40G13.001

NS

CD-ROM Board

FALCON-2 CD-ROM BD

55.40G04.D01

NS

FAN

FAN 5V 45*45*10
AB4505MB-GD3(B

23.10041.011

NS

Microphone Rubber

MIC-RUBBER CR
PLATINUM

42.49A11.001

NS

Microphone with Cable

MIC CABLE

50.40G06.011

Fan

Microphone

94

Chapter 6

Picture

No.

Partname

Description

Part No.

Heatsink
NS

CPU Heatsink

HEATSINK CPU
FALCON2.5

34.41H04.001

CPU Heatsink Plate

CPU HEATSINK PLATE

FALCON2.5

31.41H02.001

NS

PCMCIA Plate

PCMCIA PLATE FALCON

2.5

31.41H03.001

NS

TouchPad FPC Cable

C.A TOUCHPAD FPC

FALCON2

50.40G02.001

NS

TouchPad Frame

TOUCH PAD FRAME

FALCON2

41.40G01.001

NS

TouchPad Board

TOUCHPAD MULTISWITCH SYNAPTIC

56.1740C.001

NS

TouchPad Button

TOUCH PAD BUTTON

FALCON2

42.40G09.001

NS

TouchPad Scroll Button

TOUCH PAD SCROLL

BUTTON FLCON2

42.40G10.001

Pointing Device

Chapter 6

95

Picture

No.

Partname

Description

Part No.

Cables
NS

Modem Cable

C.A MODEM FALCON2.5

50.41H04.001

NS

Launch Board Cable

C.A LAUNCH FALCON2

50.40G05.001

NS

Main board/TM520

FALCON 2.5 MB C-500

55.41H01.S01

11

Audio Board

FALCON2.5 AUDIO BD

55.41H03.D01

NS

Launch Board

FALCON2 LAUNCH
BOARD

55.40G03.D01

NS

Modem Board

AMBIT 56K MODEM

MODULE UL 3.0

54.09011.311

NS

PCMCIA Slot

SKT PCMCIA QT6113663110C SMD

62.10024.111

Main board

Boards

PCMCIA Slot/ PC Card Slot

96

Chapter 6

Picture

No.

Partname

Description

Part No.

Battery
NS

Battery

ASSY BTY PACK BTP-34A1

FAL2.5

60.41H01.001

NS

RTC Battery, Li

BTY LI 3V CR1220 36MAH

23.20004.091

LCD Cable Cover

CABLE COVER FALCON2

42.40G06.001

NS

Middle Cover

MIDDLE COVER FALCON2

42.40G04.001

26, 27

Hinge Cap Pack

ASSY HINGE PACK

6K=42.40G08.001+42.
40G07.001

14

Memory Cover

DIMM COVER ASSY

60.40G05.001

NS

HDD Cover

ASSY HDD COVER

FALCON2.5

60.41H14.001

Case/Cover/Bracket Assembly

Chapter 6

97

Picture

No.

Partname

Description

Part No.

15

Modem Cover

MODEM COVER ASSY

60.40G06.001

12

Upper Case

UPPER CASE ASSEMBLY

60.40G03.001

NS

Lower Case

LOWER CASE(F2.5)

60.41H06.001

NS

Charger Plate with

Thermal pad

ASSY CARGER PLATE

FALCON2.5

60.41H13.001

NS

Camera Rubber

RUBBER CAMERA TM340

47.40F07.002

NS

LOGO

LOGO

40.42F09.001

11

Main board Screw

SCREW M2.5*4L NI

86.9A553.4R0

Miscellaneous

Screws

98

22

Modem Cover Screw

SCREW M2.0X4(BLACK)

86.9A322.4R0

23

Hinge Screw

SCREW M2.5X6

86.9A353.6R0

21

HeatSink Screw

SCREW M2.0*12 STEEL B

86.1A322.120

NS

CD-ROM Screw

SCREW M2-3

86.9A522.3R0

NS

CD-ROM Mylar Screw

SCREW SPECIAL M2
FALCON2

86.00A03.220

10

LCD Screw

SCRW BIND M2*L3 B-ZN

SHIVA

86.9A322.3R0

20

CPU Screw

SCREW CPU FALCON 2.5

86.00A04.220

NS

CPU Spring

SPRING CPU FALCON 2.5

34.41H05.001

Chapter 6

Appendix A

Model Definition and Configuration

Model Number Definitions
Model
Number

LCD

CPU

Memory

HDD

CD

Battery

520iT

12.1 TFT

Celeron-550

64MB

4.8GB

24x

Lilon

521TE

13.3 TFT

PIII-600

64MB

6GB

24x

Lilon

521TX

14.1 TFT

PIII-600

64MB

6GB

24x

Lilon

521TXV

14.1 TFT

PIII-600

64MB

6GB

6x DVD

Lilon

522TX

14.1 TFT

PIII-600

64MB

12GB

24x

Lilon

522TXV

14.1 TFT

PIII-600

64MB

12GB

6x DVD

Lilon

523TE

13.3 TFT

PIII-600

64MB

6GB

24x

Lilon

524TX

14.1 TFT

PIII-600

64MB

12GB

24x

Lilon

524TXV

14.1 TFT

PIII-600

64MB

12GB

6x DVD

Lilon

525TX

14.1 TFT

PIII-600

64MB

12GB

24x

Lilon

525TXV

14.1 TFT

PIII-600

64MB

12GB

6x DVD

Lilon

Appendix A

99

100

Appendix A

Appendix B

Test Compatible Components

This computers compatibility is tested and verified by Acers internal testing department. All of its system
functions are tested under Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows 2000 and Windows NT environment.
Refer to the following lists for components, adapter cards, and peripherals which have passed these tests.
Regarding configuration, combination and test procedures, please refer to the TravelMate 520 Compatibility
Test Report released by the Acer Mobile System Testing Department.
TravelMate 520 Compatibility Test Report is not yet ready when the service guide was released. Test
Compatible Components will not be provided at this moment. Please check website for updates of test
compatible components.

Appendix B

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Appendix B

Appendix C

Online Support Information

This section describes online technical support services available to help you repair your Acer Systems.
If you are a distributor, dealer, ASP or TPM, please refer your technical queries to your local Acer branch
office. Acer Branch Offices and Regional Business Units may access our website. However some information
sources will require a user i.d. and password. These can be obtained directly from Acer CSD Taiwan.
Acer's Website offers you convenient and valuable support resources whenever you need them.
In the Technical Information section you can download information on all of Acer's Notebook, Desktop and
Server models including:

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Service guides for all models

User's manuals
Training materials
Main manuals
Bios updates
Software utilities
Schematics
Spare parts lists
Chips
TABs (Technical Announcement Bulletin)

The service repair section provides you with downloadable information on:

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Troubleshooting guides
Tooling box information
Repair instructions for specific models
Basic repair guidelines
Debug cards for Acer's latest models

For these purposes, we have included an Acrobat File to facilitate the problem-free downloading of our
technical material.
Also contained on this website are:

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Detailed information on Acer's International Traveller's Warranty (ITW)

Returned material authorization procedures
An overview of all the support services we offer, accompanied by a list of telephone, fax and email
contacts for all your technical queries.

We are always looking for ways to optimize and improve our services, so if you have any suggestions or
comments, please do not hesitate to communicate these to us.

Appendix C

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Appendix C

Index

F
AC Adapter 25

FDD 19

ACPI 1

Features 1

AFLASH Utility 37

Flash Utility 37

Audio 21

FRU (Field Replaceable Unit) List 87

H
Battery 23

Hard Disk Drive Module

Battery Cover

Disassembly 49
Removing 49

Removing 47

Hard Disk Standby Mode 26

Battery Pack

Hardware Specifications and Configurations 17

Removing 47
BIOS 17

HDD 19

BIOS Setup Utility 29

Hibernation Mode 26

BIOS Utility 2936

Hot Keys 12

Basic System Settings 31

Load Default Settings 36
Navigating 29
Onboard Device Configuration 33
Startup Configuration 31
System Information 30
System Security 34

I
I/O Address Map 27
Index of Error Message 71
No-Beep Symptoms 73
Index of Symptom-to-FRU Error Message 74

Block Diagram 3

Indicator 74
Keyboard 76
LCD 74
Memory 75
Modem 77
PCMCIA 75
Peripheral 76
Power 74
Power Management 75
Speaker 75
Touchpad 76

Board Layout 4

C
CD-ROM 20
CD-ROM Drive
Disassembly 48
Removing 48

Indicators 10
DC-AC LCD Inverter 24

Intermittent Problems 78

DC-DC/Charger 23

IrDA

Disassembly Flowchart 45

setting in BIOS Utility 33

Diskette Drive Check 68

IrDA Port 23

Display Standby Mode 26

IRQ Assignment Map 28

DMA Channel Assignment 28

DVD-ROM 20

J
Jumper and Connector Locations

E
Environmental Requirements 26
External CD-ROM Drive Check 68

Index

Bottom View 85
SW2 Settings 83
Top View 83

105

S
Keyboard 11, 23

Serial Port 22

Keyboard or Auxiliary Input Device Check 68

Speed Step technology 1

Standby Mode 26

SVGA 2
LAN 18

System Check Procedures 68

Launch Keys 14

System Diagnostic Diskette 40

LCD 2, 24

System Specifications 1

Disassembly 52

System Utilities 29
System Utility Diskette 38

M
Machine Disassembly and Replacement 43

Major Chips 17

Test Compatible Components 101

Mechanical Specifications 27

TFT 2

Memory 17

Touchpad 15
Touchpad Check 70

Removing 50

Troubleshooting 67

Memory Address Map 27

Memory Check 69
Memory Combinations 18

Model Number Definitions 99

Undetermined Problems 79

Modem 18

USB Port 22
utility

BIOS 2936
Online Support Information 103

V
Video 21

Panel 6

Video Resolutions Mode 22

Bottom Panel 9
Front Panel 6
Left Panel 7
Rear Panel 8
Right Panel 8
Parallel Port 22
parallel port
setting in BIOS Utility 33
Password Setting
Hard Disk Password 35
Power-On Password 35
Setup Password 35
PCMCIA Port 23
Power System Check 69
Battery Pack 70
Power Adapter 69
PQA 40
Processor 17

R
RMA 87

106

Index

Index

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Index