Acer Extensa 500 Service Guide

Chapter 241
AFlash Utility
The BIOS flash memory update is required for the following conditions:
qNew versions of system programs
qNew 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.
The AFlash functions support all the operations required for system Flash 
ROM.  The functions are divided into four steps as follows.
1.  Load BIOS file to buffer 
reads a specified file from a diskette to...

42
Software Utilities 
Quick Way to Execute AFlash
When you have already copied the AFlash files into your hard disk, you can 
simply type the following on the DOS prompt (subdirectory where the files are 
located) to quickly execute the program.
aflash (file name)          Enter
The program automatically performs the loading and programming functions, 
then reboots the system.
If the program cannot find the BIOS file, it returns to the main menu and 
flashes the following message:
Can’t Read This...

Chapter 243
System Utility Diskette
1.  This utility diskette is for the Acer Extensa 500 notebook machine.  It 
provides the following functions:
2.  Read/write LCD panel ID
3.  Set thermal sensor threshold
4.  Verify thermal sensor threshold (by testing fan function)
To use this diskette, first boot from this diskette, then a “Microsoft Windows 
95 Startup Menu” prompt you to choose the testing item.  Follow the 
instructions on screen to proceed.
Important!!
 This diskette is not bootable, do the...

44
Software Utilities 
System Diagnostic Diskette
This diagnostic diskette is for the Acer Extensa 500 notebook machine.  It 
provides the following functions:
1.  System Test
2.  Modem Dialing Test
Note: 
A phone line is required when executing the Modem Dialing Test, 
or this test fails.
3.  Audio Function Test
4.  CD-Player Function Test
5.  USB Register and Connect/Disconnect Test
Note: 
A USB device is required when executing USB Connection/
Disconnection Test, or this test fails.
To use this...

Chapter 245
Running PQA Diagnostics Program.
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.
Manual Test Performs a single test and Manual checks the selected test 
items in sequence.
Auto Test Performs multiple tests of the selected items and AUTO check the 
select test items in...

46
Software Utilities 
The screen below appears if you select AUTO Test.
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).
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 close the submenu.
The right corner screen information gives you the available function keys and...

Chapter 247
qTest Times:  Indicates the number of tests to perform.
Note: 
The F1 and F2 keys function only after you finish configuring the 
Test option.
Diagnostic Program Error Code and Messages
Error 
CodeMessageFRU/Action in Sequence
16XX Backup battery error Backup battery
1XXX CPU or main board 
errorReload BIOS default setting.
CPU
System board
2XXX Memory error Reconnect CPU board
DIMM
System board
3XXX Keyboard error Reseat Keyboard
Keyboard
System board
4XXX Video error System board
5XXX...

48
Software Utilities  

Chapter 349
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:
qWrist grounding strap and conductive mat for preventing electrostatic 
discharge
qFlat-bladed screwdriver
qPhillips screwdriver
qTw ee z e rs
qFlat-bladed screwdriver or plastic stick
Note: 
The screws for the different components vary in size. During the 
disassembly process, group the screws with the...

50
Machine Disassembly 
General Information
Before You Begin
Before proceeding with the disassembly procedure, make sure that you do 
the following:
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.
3.  Remove the battery pack.
Connector Types
There are two kinds of connectors on the system board: 
qConnectors with no locks
Unplug the cable by simply pulling out the cable from the connector.
qConnectors with locks
You can...