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Welcome to the Compaq Presario Guidebook.  This book contains information about your system and how to use it.  This information can also be used to succeed at "The Adventures of Dr. Tekno: The Search for the Brigands of the South Seas."  Select a topic to learn about by clicking on the topic name or number.  To return to this Table of Contents any time, click on the COMPAQ PRESARIO Guidebook icon.
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The Compaq Presario is a full-function desktop unit that combines an integrated color monitor with a 486-based system.  You can be productive immediately because your PC is preconfigured with the monitor, the latest MS-DOS, Microsoft Windows, and several popular software programs.  The features of your PC include the following, the items marked with an * are optionally upgradeable.
- 486 Microprocessor *
- Integrated high-quality monitor
- 4 MB of memory *
- Large capacity fixed disk drive *
- Diskette drive
- Built-in power conservation
- 2 ISA Expansion slots
- Multiple interfaces like serial, communications, and mouse *
- Space Saver keyboard
- On-Line documentation
That concludes this section.  Select the Compaq Presario Guidebook icon to return to the menu, or the right arrow to continue with the next topic.
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Microprocessor
The brain of any computer is its microprocessor.  Your PC comes standard with an Intel 486SX microprocessor.  This microprocessor provides 486 processing power---so important to Windows and Windows applications.  Some of the technical features of the 486SX are: built in cache memory , significant speed in processing (at least 40% faster than a 386!), support for Windows 386 Enhanced mode, and compatibility with software written for 386-based computers.
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To allow you even further performance and future growth, your PC has a socket used to upgrade with any one of the following:
- Intel 486DX/33 Microprocessor chip
- Intel 487SX Math Coprocessor
- Intel 486DX2 or Overdrive Processor chip 
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The optional 486DX/33 microprocessor adds more performance to your PC.  In addition to the fast processing speed, the DX chip includes a built in 487 math coprocessor.  A math coprocessor increases the speed of math-intensive applications.  A math coprocessor is recommended for applications that use very large or floating point numbers, or complex calculations and graphics.  An example of this type of application is a CAD (Computer Aided Design) program.  Most common applications do not take advantage of a math coprocessor.  You can order the Intel 486DX/33 chip with its built-in coprocessor as an upgrade kit from Compaq.
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You can also install just a 487SX coprocessor option.  If your system's standard microprocessor is a 486SX/25, upgrading with this chip does NOT affect the microprocessor speed, that remains at 25 MHz.  To increase the microprocessor speed you must upgrade to a 486DX/33 or above.  The coprocessor is not available as a Compaq option, but is available from many computer stores.  For maximum flexibility, your PC has a performance upgrade socket for installation of a chip purchased elsewhere.
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486 DX2 microprocessors (available from Compaq) or the Intel Overdrive Processors are used to increase the microprocessor speed.  These processors come in 50 and 66 megahertz speeds.  Both products are functionally equivalent.  These increases in speed can be very important if you must have fast, powerful processing.  Lots of applications benefit from faster internal processing speed.  Examples are complex graphic programs, large spreadsheets, Microsoft Windows, and network server applications.
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Installation overview
There is one performance socket where these upgrades are installed.  When the socket is filled, the original SX processor is shut off and the new processor takes over.  Before attempting any upgrade, you should refer to the documentation that accompanied your upgrade and your Beyond Setup Guide.  Static electricity can damage computer components.  You should be grounded before touching electronic devices.  Compaq recommends that you have an Authorized COMPAQ Service Provider install the upgrade processor.
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Steps to take for a performance upgrade
1. Power off the system and remove the power cord.
2. Slide out the system tray.
3. Locate the system board.
4. Locate the processor upgrade socket.
5. Install the appropriate processor chip.
6. Set the jumpers to indicate the type of processor now in control of the system.  There is a label to tell you the proper setting.  This label is located on the underside of the system tray.
7. Reinstall the system tray and replace the power cord.
8. Power on the system and run SETUP to configure the new microprocessor.
Notice that you do NOT need to remove any chips to perform this upgrade.
Caution:  Installing the processor upgrade incorrectly may cause damage to the processor board.  Compaq recommends that you have an Authorized COMPAQ Service Provider install the upgrade processor.  If you plan to install it yourself, read all instructions carefully before you begin.  Be sure you replace all screws and secure all parts properly. 
That concludes this section.  Select the Compaq Presario Guidebook icon to return to the menu, or the right arrow to continue with the next topic.
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Memory
The system comes standard with 4 MB of memory.  System memory is made up of very fast (70-nanosecond access time) DRAM chips soldered on the system board.  To add memory, you can use any combination of 1-,2-,4, or 8-MB SIMMs.  These SIMMs are installed into the two special memory sockets on the system board.  The system supports up to 20 MB of DRAM.  To reach this maximum, you would install two 8-MB SIMMs in addition to the system's standard 4 MB.
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Installing a new SIMM
Steps to take
1. Power off the system and remove the power cord.
2. Slide out the system tray.
3. Locate the system board.
4. Locate an empty SIMM socket.
5. Install the new SIMM.
6. Reinstall the system tray and replace the power cord.
7. Reboot the system and run SETUP to configure the new memory.
Specific instructions on performing this upgrade will accompany the kit when you order it from Compaq.  Read the specific instructions and take precautions against static electricity damage to components before attempting this or any upgrade.
That concludes this section.  Select the Compaq Presario Guidebook icon to return to the menu, or the right arrow to continue with the next topic.
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ISA Expansion slots
Your PC has two Industry Standard Architecture (ISA) expansion slots that you can use to add option boards to your standard unit.  These boards are inserted into the ISA slots and must be no longer than 8 inches.  Examples of the types of boards that you might want to add are CD-ROM controller boards, sound boards, controller board for an external tape back-up drive, and network interface cards (NICs).
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To install an optional ISA Expansion board you:
1. Power off the system, remove the power cord.
2. Slide out the system tray.
3. Locate the system board.
4. Locate the two ISA Expansion slots. 
5. Install the new board in an empty slot.
6. Reinstall the tray and reconnect the power cord.
7. Reboot the system, run SETUP, and verify the operation of your new board.
You may have to install a software device driver to make the new board work properly with its device.  Refer to the documentation that accompanied your expansion board for any specific installation instructions and take precautions against static electricity damage to components before attempting this or any upgrade.
That concludes this section.  Select the Compaq Presario Guidebook icon to return to the menu, or the right arrow to continue with the next topic.
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Mass Storage
For large, long term storage your PC has either a 100- or a 200-MB fixed disk drive.  The fixed disk drive is located in the internal storage bay of the system (1).  There can only be one fixed disk drive installed.  The standard system supports a 3.5" diskette drive in the storage bay on the front of the system (2).  This drive can read and write either 1.44-MB or 720-KB diskettes.  
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If you would like to increase your fixed disk drive capacity, Compaq offers optional fixed disk drives with additional capacity.  These include  200-, 270-, and 340-megabyte fixed disk drives.  You also can install other drives if they use the correct controller and are the correct physical size.  For more information about fixed disk drive upgrades, contact your local Compaq dealer, reseller, or a Compaq representative.  That concludes this section.  Select the Compaq Presario Guidebook icon to return to the menu, or the right arrow to continue with the next topic.
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Display
Your PC has an integrated 14" color monitor.  The display comes configured for 800x600 resolution with 256 simultaneous colors.  The monitor resolution and color support are configurable using the Compaq SETUP utility.  Your monitor supports a sharp 0.28 dot pitch.  The resolutions available in Windows are; 1024 X 768, 16 color (interlaced); 800 X 600, 256 color (non-interlaced); 640 X 480, 256 color (non-interlaced)
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The monitor has three manual adjustments.  They are located on the front of the monitor and are used to control horizontal hold (1), brightness (2), and contrast (3).  Using the picture shown as a guide, locate these adjustment knobs and try them to see what effect they have on your system.  That concludes this section.  Select the Compaq Presario Guidebook icon to return to the menu, or the right arrow to continue with the next topic.
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Interfaces
Your PC unit has a number of interfaces that come standard in the unit.  These standard interfaces are: keyboard, mouse, parallel, and serial.  In addition, some units will have one or more of the following interfaces installed: game port, telephone line connections, and network interface card connection. 
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To help you find the right connection when you are plugging in your devices, the unit has icons above the connectors to help identify their function.  The chart above shows the connectors, the numbers correspond to the following list; 1-Keyboard, 2-Mouse, 3-Serial, 4-Parallel, 5-Game port (not on all units), 6-Telephone handset (not on all units), 7-Telephone line (not on all units, capabilities vary by geographical location).  Remember, always turn off your computer before connecting any external device, such as a printer, mouse, or joystick.
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Your system comes with the new Space Saver keyboard and a Compaq mouse.  The space saver keyboard features full keyboard functions in a space efficient size.  The Compaq mouse provides a pointing device for navigating in the Windows environment.
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Once the keyboard and mouse are plugged into the ports, and the system power cord is plugged into a power outlet, you need only to turn on your system and you're ready to go.  The keyboard and mouse connectors are located in the lower back side of the computer.  To help you find them, the keyboard and mouse icons are above the connectors.  You also can use a serial mouse on your PC.  To connect a serial mouse, refer to the section on Serial Interface.
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Your PC features a standard parallel port used to communicate with a variety of devices such as parallel printers or tape drives.
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To connect a parallel device, locate the parallel port icon on the back of the unit, and plug in the device interface cable.  Depending on the type of device (like a printer or a tape drive), you may need to install software, or select the correct driver in your application.  For example, in Windows, once you connect your printer, you should select the correct printer driver in Windows Print Manager.  Windows applications will then be able to use your printer.
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Your PC features a standard serial port used for a variety of serial devices, such as external modems, plotters, serial printers, and bar-code readers.  The serial connector is located in the lower back side of the computer, a serial port icon is above the port.  Once the serial device is plugged into the port, you may need to install the software supplied with your device.
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Your PC comes with one serial connector on the back of the unit, configured as COM1.  If your PC has a built in modem, it also uses a serial port (although this one is internal) which is automatically configured as COM2.  Note that if you connect a serial mouse to the serial port, it uses one of the available COM addresses (COM1).  To avoid this, use the Compaq mouse that came with the system.  Some applications require a particular COM address.  If this is the case, you may modify your default COM settings by using the Compaq SETUP utility.
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Some models of your PC feature a game interface for joystick or controller-pad type devices used in popular entertainment and educational games.  The joystick is plugged into the game port connector on the back of the unit.  That concludes this section.  Select the Compaq Presario Guidebook icon to return to the menu, or the right arrow to continue with the next topic.
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Communication System
Some models have built-in communication capabilities.  This includes a data modem, fax capability, and telephone answering machine.  Software comes with the modem to allow you to immediately use these features with a single telephone line.  This allows you to be working in your word processor, while in the background you may transfer a file across town, send or receive a fax, or take phone messages.  All this is under the control of Windows and your applications program.
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To access the communication system, plug in an existing single phone line into the connector in the back of the PC, start up the communications software, and get ready to communicate!  If you did not receive a modem with your unit, you may be able to install an optional modem.  Contact your local Compaq dealer or representative to find out what modems are best for your needs and location.  That concludes this section.  Select the Compaq Presario Guidebook icon to return to the menu, or the right arrow to continue with the next topic.
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Energy Saver
To save electricity when you are away from the unit, your PC can control power to your display and fixed disk drive through the use of a timer.  This is called Energy Saver.  The system monitors the keyboard, mouse, and serial port for activity.  If there is none after a pre-set time, the power to the monitor is shut off.  The fixed disk drive has a timer which monitors requests.  If there is no activity, the drive stops spinning and is shut down.  You may hear the fixed disk drive spin down during periods of inactivity and then spin up again when it is accessed.  This is normal.  Your PC was shipped with Energy Saver disabled.  To enable this feature, use the Energy Saver Utility to set a time-out value.  We recommend you set your fixed disk drive time-out time to a high number so that system performance is not compromised by having the drive spin up and down often.
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For example, to conserve energy you might set the timers to put the devices to sleep after 20 minutes of inactivity.  To wake them up, simply use them!  If you press a key or move the mouse, the system comes to life.  You use the Compaq Energy Saver Utility or the Compaq SETUP Utility to set these timers.  Click on the Power Management icon in the Compaq Utilities group or tab to access this utility.  That concludes this section.  Select the Compaq Presario Guidebook icon to return to the menu, or the right arrow to continue with the next topic.
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Compaq SETUP UTILITY
Your PC comes with a built-in utility that can modify the default hardware configuration.  You can modify the time and date, configure the system after an option installation, and modify security and power conservation features.  The next screen will begin a simulation.  It starts with a screen that shows the system going through its power up routine by counting memory.  You will press keys and type in words to simulate the use of the SETUP Utility.  
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When you first power up your PC, it counts and tests the memory in your system, displaying an incrementing number in the upper left hand corner of the screen.  Once this is done, the system beeps and then the cursor moves quickly over to the right, pauses and then the operating system loads.  When the cursor or blinking square is paused on the right, you may access the SETUP utility by pressing the F10 key.  Microsoft Windows uses the F10 key, so in our simulation we will substitute the ENTER key to begin the SETUP Utility.  Press the ENTER key now. 
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SETUP is available in four languages.  At this screen you select the language you want.  In our simulation, press the ENTER key now to select English.
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This brings you to the SETUP screen that displays the configuration.  For example, you can see that there is a 1.44-MB diskette drive installed as Diskette Drive A.  If you added an option to your system, SETUP automatically updates its configuration before displaying this screen.  You could check here to make sure your option is recognized.  Now, to let you see how SETUP works, add a password to your system.  To modify the security settings press F4 now. 
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The screen includes a menu of items that you can configure.  Each selection brings you to a set of instructions to modify that device or feature.  In this simulation, let's assign a Power-on Password.  Use the down arrow key on your keyboard to move the highlight bar down to Power-on Password on the menu.  Then press the ENTER key. 
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Within this screen you type the Password you want to use for security when you power up your system.  Type the word Compaq and press the ENTER key.  For security reasons, your letters are displayed as X's. 
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To verify, you must key-in the password again.  Type Compaq and press ENTER.
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Press the ESC key to return to the configuration screen.
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That's it for the modification.  To make it a part of the system's configuration, you must save the change and load the configuration.  In the actual SETUP Utility you would press F3 to get to the Exit screen.  Because Microsoft Windows uses the F3 key, we have substituted the ENTER key for our simulation.  Press the ENTER key now to get to the Exit screen.
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Next select Exit and Save Changes with the down arrow key, then press the ENTER key.  The system now continues with the boot process and loads your operating system software.  That concludes this section.  Select the Compaq Presario Guidebook icon to return to the menu, or the right arrow to continue with the next topic.
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DOCUMENTATION
Your Quick Setup Card is a reference for initial unpacking and connections.  It also helps define the LEDs (lights) and adjustment knobs available to you.  The Beyond Setup Guide is an extensive printed document that covers the information needed to use your PC. 
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LABELS
There are two labels on the system that you may need to access.  The first is the bar-coded serial number label located on the rear of the unit, between the expansion slots (shown in the picture above).  The second is the Configuration Label, located on the underside of the system tray.  This label contains information on setting the jumpers if you upgrade the microprocessor in your system.  
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ON-LINE DOCUMENTATION
The On-Line User's Guide is a slightly condensed version of the Beyond Setup manual.  Access to the on-line User's Guide icon is through the Learning Center.  The Compaq Dictionary is a dictionary of general personal computer terms that allows you to search for a term and its general definition.  You can access this dictionary from the Learning Center.  That concludes the Compaq Presario Guidebook.  You can select another Guidebook, the game button, or exit.
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