compaq presario 1230 1250 User Manual

							Compaq Presario Series Maintenance and Service Guide 
United States     December 6, 2002
Presario 1200 Series
Models: 1234, 1235, 1236, 1237, 1238, 1240, 1242, 1250, and 1252 
Before You BeginSpecificationsParts Catalog
Removal SequenceTroubleshootingBattery Operations
Product DescriptionPin AssignmentsIndex
Rear Connectors
Models and 
Features
Controls and 
Lights
Left Side 
Components
Right Side 
Components
Bottom of 
Unit
Rear 
Connectors
Power 
Management 
for Windows 
98
Rear Connectors
1. AC Adapter 6. USB
2. Parallel Printer 
Port 7.Keyboard/Mouse 
Port 
3. Serial Port 8. Modem Jack
4. Fan Exhaust  9. Security Slot
5. External Monitor 
Port 
 
 
 
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							Compaq Presario Series Maintenance and Service Guide 
United States     December 6, 2002
Presario 1200 Series
Models: 1234, 1235, 1236, 1237, 1238, 1240, 1242, 1250, and 1252 
Before You BeginSpecificationsParts Catalog
Removal SequenceTroubleshootingBattery Operations
Product DescriptionPin AssignmentsIndex
Power Management for Windows 98
The following power management features are available for conserving AC \
power and extending 
battery operating time:
l     Power Management Settings
l     Sleep
l     Hibernation
l     Battery operating time
l     Rebooting After a Lockup
l     Servicing Your Computer - Full Off Mode
Power Management Settings
Depending on your patterns of computer use, you can set different levels\
 of power management. 
These different power management levels can be activated based on the am\
ount of time passed 
since the last system activity. System activity examples include keyboar\
d or mouse movement, CD 
or DVD playback (while under program control that monitors Sleep), and\
 modem use.
You can select different conditions or power schemes through Power Manag\
ement.The optional 
settings are Home/Office Desk, Portable/ Laptop, and Always On. From the default settings, 
you can change the following settings: 
l     the System goes to Sleep (Standby) mode
l     the screen times out and goes blank
l     the hard drive spins down
Each of these system components will go to sleep after the selected or d\
efault periods of inactivity. 
(The setting for hard drive must be less than or equal to the setting f\
or System.) 
IMPORTANT:If youre on a network, its recommended that you set System Standby to 
Never.
There are five categories of power management settings under the Control\
 Panel. The default 
setting for each feature is listed below in the tables. 
Power Management Properties
Tab: Power Schemes: Plugged in Running on 
Batteries
Always on System 
Standby:  Never
15 minutes
Turn OFF Monitor After 15 minutes After 10 minutes
Always on System 
Standby: After 15 minutes
After 10 minutes
 
Power Management Properties
Tab: ALARMS::
Low Battery Alarm: 10%
Critical Battery Alarm    0%
Alarm Actions: X Display Message Notification 
Text Action           No Action
 
Power Management Properties
Tab: POWER METER:Default
Tab: ADVANCED  Default
 
Display Properties
Tab: Monitor: Laptop Display (Maximum resolution according to unit display 
size)
 
Sleep
You can select Sleep mode instead of turning off the computer when you h\
ave finished using it. 
This allows the computer to wake up faster than turning it completely of\
f and saves power over the 
active (On) mode. Compaq Presario Notebook computers have two levels o\
f sleep, Hibernation and 
Sleep.
Hibernation - by pushing the power button once your computer will perform a save to\
 disk 
followed by a shut down of the computer into Off mode.
Sleep - is a low power mode, also referred to as Standby mode. While in Sleep\
 mode, your 
computer will maintain system information and open files. Unsaved inform\
ation will be lost if you 
turn off your system prior to system wake-up, or if you lose power while\
 using the AC adapter.
CAUTION:  While in Sleep mode, your computer will maintain system information and \
open 
files. Unsaved information will be lost if you turn off your system prio\
r to system wake-
up, or if you lose power while using the AC adapter
.
Hibernation Mode
Hibernation helps conserve battery life and protects your data. Hibernat\
ion can be a routine power 
saving event, or can be the result of a low battery condition. As it ent\
ers Hibernation your 
computer will display a progress screen, as it automatically saves the m\
achine state before it shuts 
down and turns itself off. Your computer will automatically go into Hibe\
rnation, when the battery 
has little power left, or when the system (operating on battery power)\
 has been in Sleep mode for 
more than an hour. You can also manually initiate Hibernation by pressin\
g the power button once 
while the system is active. To restore the computers previous state, si\
mply press the power button 
once again. While waking up, the computer will display a progress screen\
.
The following table shows the conditions and indicators for getting in a\
nd out of the various power 
management modes, Sleep, Hibernation, and Off.
Mode To InitiateTo EndIndicators
Sleep
Manual keys 
combination
- Fn+F4 Press any key
Flashing green 
Power LED
Time Out 
Default 15 
minutes. If on 
Battery power 
(system will not 
go to Sleep if 
on AC power)
Hibernate
Manual - Press 
Power Button 
once Press Power 
Button once
No Power LED, 
blank screen
Time Out 
Default If low 
battery or after 
1 hour of sleep 
(system will not 
Hibernate if on 
AC power)
Off Perform normal 
Windows 
shutdown via 
the start 
button, or press 
and hold down 
the power 
button for 4 
secondsPress Power 
Button once
No Power LED, 
blank screen
 
Servicing Your Computer - Full Off Mode
If you need to install or replace components in your system, you must tu\
rn the computer off 
completely. Follow the instructions above for properly putting the computer into O\
ff mode, unplug 
from the outlet, and remove the battery 
(see battery section for instruction on removing battery).
 
Rebooting After a Lockup
Occasionally you may encounter a frozen keyboard or a locked screen. To \
reboot your computer 
(as if from a cold start) press and hold down the Power Button for at \
least four seconds, which will 
cause a manual shutdown. Then, restart it with a single press of the Pow\
er Button. If it still doesnt 
recover, press the Power Button and hold it for four seconds to shut it \
down, then, remove the 
battery or unplug the AC power for at least 30 seconds. Reinsert the bat\
tery or reconnect AC 
power and press the Power Button once to reboot.
 
Battery Operating Time
Battery operating time is affected by variables, such as the following:
l     Power conservation settings
l     Hardware configuration
l     Software applications
l     Installed options
l     Display brightness
l     Hard drive usage
l     Power button
l     Changes in operating temperature
l     Type and number of installed PC Cards
For more information on increasing battery pack operating time, conditio\
ning the battery pack, and 
disposing of a used battery pack, refer to the 
Battery Pack Operations.
 
 
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							Compaq Presario Series Maintenance and Service Guide 
United States     December 6, 2002
Presario 1200 Series
Models: 1234, 1235, 1236, 1237, 1238, 1240, 1242, 1250, and 1252 
Before You BeginSpecificationsParts Catalog
Removal SequenceTroubleshootingBattery Operations
Product DescriptionPin AssignmentsIndex
Troubleshooting
Preliminary Steps
Clearing the Power-
On Password
Power-On Self Test 
(POST)
Compaq Diagnostics
Diagnostic Error 
Codes
Troubleshooting 
Without Diagnostics
Solving Minor 
Problems
Contacting Compaq 
SupportThis section covers troubleshooting information for 
the Compaq Presario 1200 Series Portable 
Computers. The basic steps in troubleshooting 
include:
1. Follow the 
Preliminary Steps.
2. Run the 
Power-On Self-Test 
(POST).
3. Follow the recommended 
actions described in the 
diagnostic tables, if you are 
unable to run POST or if POST 
displays an error message.
When following the 
recommended actions in the 
Sections on POST and 
Diagnostic Error Codes perform 
them in the order listed. Rerun 
POST after each recommended 
action until the problem is 
solved and no error message 
occurs. Once the problem is 
solved, do not complete the 
remaining recommended 
actions.
NOTE:
If the problem is 
intermittent, check the 
computer several times 
to verify that the problem 
is solved.
 
 
 
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							Compaq Presario Series Maintenance and Service Guide 
United States     December 6, 2002
Presario 1200 Series
Models: 1234, 1235, 1236, 1237, 1238, 1240, 1242, 1250, and 1252 
Before You BeginSpecificationsParts Catalog
Removal SequenceTroubleshootingBattery Operations
Product DescriptionPin AssignmentsIndex
Preliminary Steps
Before running POST, complete the following preliminary steps:
1. If a power-on password has been established, type the password and pr\
ess the Enter key.  If 
the password is not known, 
clear the password.
2. Run 
Computer Checkup.
3. Turn off the computer and its external devices.
4. Disconnect any external devices that you do not want to test. Do not \
disconnect the printer if 
you want to test it or use it to log error messages. 
IMPORTANT:
If the problem only occurs when an external device is connected 
to the computer, the problem may be related to the external 
device or its cable. Verify this by running POST with and without 
the external device connected.
5. Install loopback plugs in the serial and parallel connectors if you w\
ould like to test these ports.
6. Ensure the hard drive is installed in the computer.
7. Ensure that the battery pack is inserted in the computer and the comp\
uter is connected to an 
external AC power source.
When the preliminary steps are completed, you are ready to run 
POST.
 
 
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							Compaq Presario Series Maintenance and Service Guide 
United States     December 6, 2002
Presario 1200 Series
Models: 1234, 1235, 1236, 1237, 1238, 1240, 1242, 1250, and 1252 
Before You BeginSpecificationsParts Catalog
Removal SequenceTroubleshootingBattery Operations
Product DescriptionPin AssignmentsIndex
Power-On Self Test (POST)
Running POST
To run POST, complete the following steps:
Turn off the computer, then turn on the computer.
If POST does not detect any errors, the computer will not beep. This ind\
icates successful 
completion of POST test. POST has run successfully and boots from the ha\
rd drive (or from a 
bootable diskette if one is installed in the diskette drive).
If POST detects errors, the errors are indicated by screen and/or audibl\
e messages. Refer to 
Power-On Self-Test (POST) Codes in the tables for a list of POST cod\
es and their relevant 
descriptions.
NOTE:If the system is not functioning well enough to run POST, or if the disp\
lay is not functioning 
well enough to show POST error messages, refer to the Troubleshooting ta\
bles. 
Power-On Self-Test Messages 102-System Board Failure
Probable Cause Recommended Action
DMA, timers, etc. Replace the system board.
162-System Options Not Set
Probable Cause Recommended Action
Configuration incorrect Run Computer Setup.
CMOS reflects that an invalid
configuration has been set. Run Computer Setup.
RAM failure 1. Replace the memory modules.
2. Replace the system board.
Memory test data error 1. Replace the memory modules.
2. Replace the system board.
XX000YZZ RAM failure Replace the system board.
 
XX000YZZ 201-Memory Error
Probable Cause Recommended Action
301-Keyboard Error
Probable Cause Recommended Action
Keyboard failure 1. Ensure the keys are not depressed during POST.
2. Reconnect the keyboard with the computer off.
3. Replace the keyboard.
304-Keyboard or System Unit Error
Probable Cause Recommended Action
Keyboard or system board error 1. Replace the keyboard.
2. Replace the TouchPad or mouse.
3. Replace the system board.
601-Diskette Controller Error
Probable Cause Recommended Action
Mismatch in drive type or failure in the 
diskette controller 1. Run Computer Checkup (TEST).
2. Check and/or replace cables.
3. Replace the system board.
605-Diskette Drive Error
Probable Cause Recommended Action
Mismatch in drive type Run Computer Setup.
1780-Primary Hard Drive 0 Failure
Probable Cause Recommended Action
Disk 0 failed to respond 1. Run Computer Checkup (TEST).
2. Replace the hard drive.
Hard drive format error 1. Run Computer Checkup (TEST).
2. Replace the hard drive.
1782-Hard Drive Controller
Probable Cause Recommended Action
Hard drive controller failure 1. Run Computer Setup.
2. Replace the hard drive.
 
 
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							Compaq Presario Series Maintenance and Service Guide 
United States     December 6, 2002
Presario 1200 Series
Models: 1234, 1235, 1236, 1237, 1238, 1240, 1242, 1250, and 1252 
Before You BeginSpecificationsParts Catalog
Removal SequenceTroubleshootingBattery Operations
Product DescriptionPin AssignmentsIndex
Diagnostic Error Codes
Diagnostic error codes occur if the system recognizes a problem while ru\
nning the Compaq 
Diagnostic program. These error codes help identify possibly defective s\
ubassemblies. 
The following tables list error codes, a description of the error condit\
ion, and the action required 
to resolve the error condition. IMPORTANT: Retest the system after completing each step. If the problem has been re\
solved, 
do not proceed with the remaining steps.
For the removal and replacement of a particular subassembly, see 
Removal and Replacement 
Procedures.
Select error codes by number or type:
101 through 114Processor Test
200 through 215Memory Test 
300 through 304Keyboard Test
401 through 403Parallel Printer Test
600 through 699Diskette Drive Test
1101Serial Test
1701 through 1736Hard Drive Test
501 through 516Video Test
2402 through 2456
2458 through 2480
3206Audio Test
8601 through 8602Touch Pad Pointing Device Test
3301 through 6623CD Test
Processor Test Error Codes
Error 
Code Description Recommended Action
101-xx CPU test failed Replace the processor and retest.
102-xx Coprocessor or Weitek Error 1. Run the Configuration and Diagnostics 
Utilities. 
2. Replace the processor board and retest.
103-xx DMA page registers test failed Replace the system board and retest. 
104-xx Interrupt controller master test failed
105-xx Port 61 error
106-xx Keyboard controller self-test failed
107-xx CMOS RAM test failed
108-xx CMOS interrupt test failed
109-xx CMOS clock test failed
110-xx Programmable timer load data test 
failed
113-xx Protected mode test failed
114-01 Speaker test failed 1. Check system configuration.
2. Verify cable connections to speaker. 
3. Replace the system board and retest.
Memory Test Error Codes
200-xx Memory machine ID test failed 1. Flash the system ROM and retest.
2. Replace the system board and retest.
202-xx Memory system ROM checksum failed
203-xx Write/Read test failed 1. Remove the memory module and retest.
2. Install a new memory module and 
retest.
204-xx
Address test failed
211-xx Random pattern test failed
214-xx Noise test failed
215-xx Random address test failed
Keyboard Test Error Codes
300-xx Failed ID Test 1. Check the keyboard connection. If 
disconnected, turn off the computer and 
connect the keyboard.
2. Replace the keyboard and retest.
3. Replace the system board and retest.
301-xx
Failed Selftest/Interface Test
302-xx Failed Individual Key Test
304-xx Failed Keyboard Repeat Test
Parallel Printer Test Error Codes
401-xx Printer failed or not connected 1. Connect the printer.
2. Check power to the printer.
3. Install the loop-back connector and 
retest.
4. Check port and IRQ configuration.
5. Replace the system board and retest.
402-xx
Failed Port Test
403-xx Printer pattern test failed
Diskette Drive Test
600-xx Diskette ID drive types test 
failed 1. Replace the diskette media and retest.
2. Check and/or replace the diskette power 
and signal cables and retest.
3. Replace the diskette drive and retest.
4. Replace the system board and retest.
601-xx
Diskette format failed
602-xx Diskette read test failed
603-xx Diskette write, read, compare test 
failed
604-xx Diskette random read test failed
605-xx Diskette ID media failed
606-xx Diskette speed test failed
609-xx Diskette reset controller test failed
610-xx Diskette change line test failed
697-xx Diskette type error
698-xx Diskette drive speed not within limits
699-xx Diskette drive/media ID error
1. Replace media.
2. Run the Configuration and Diagnostics 
Utilities.
Serial Test Error Codes
1101-xx Serial port test failed
1. Check port configuration
2. Replace the system board and retest.
Hard Drive Test Error Codes
1701-xx Hard drive format test failed 1. Run the Configuration and Diagnostics 
Utilities and verify drive type.
2. Verify that all secondary drives have 
secondary drive capability.
3. Replace the hard drive and retest. 
4. Replace the system board and retest.
1702-xx
Hard drive read test failed
1703-xx Hard drive write/read/compare test 
failed
1704-xx Hard drive random seek test failed
1705-xx Hard drive controller test failed
1706-xx Hard drive ready test failed
1707-xx Hard drive recalibration test failed
1708-xx Hard drive format bad track test failed
1709-xx Hard drive reset controller test failed
1710-xx Hard drive park head test failed
1715-xx Hard drive head select test failed
1716-xx Hard drive conditional format test 
failed
1717-xx Hard drive ECC* test failed
1719-xx Hard drive power mode test failed
1724-xx Network preparation test failed
1736-xx Drive monitoring test failed
* ECC = Error Correction Code Video Test Error Codes
501-xx Video controller test failed The following apply to error codes 501-xx 
through 516-xx:
1. Disconnect external monitor and test 
with internal LCD display.
2. Replace the display assembly and retest.
3. Replace the system board and retest.
502-xx
Video memory test failed
503-xx Video attribute test failed
504-xx Video character set test failed
505-xx Video 80 × 25 mode 9 × 14 character 
cell test failed
506-xx Video 80 × 25 mode 8 × 8 character 
cell test failed
507-xx Video 40 × 25 mode test failed
508-xx Video 320 × 200 mode color set 0 
test failed
509-xx Video 320 × 200 mode color set 1 
test failed
510-xx Video 640 × 200 mode test failed
511-xx Video screen memory page test failed
512-xx Video gray scale test failed
514-xx Video white screen test failed
516-xx Video noise pattern test failed
2402-xx Video memory test failed The following steps apply to error codes 
2402-xx through 2456-xx:
1. Run the Configuration and Diagnostics 
Utilities.
2. Replace the display assembly and retest.
3. Replace the system board and retest.
2403-xx
Video attribute test failed
2404-xx Video character set test failed
2405-xx Video 80 × 25 mode 9 × 14 character 
cell test failed
2406-xx Video 80 × 25 mode 8 × 8 character 
cell test failed
2408-xx Video 320 × 200 mode color set 0 
test failed
2409-xx Video 320 × 200 mode color set 1 
test failed
2410-xx Video 640 × 200 mode test failed
2411-xx Video screen memory page test failed
2412-xx Video gray scale test failed
2414-xx Video white screen test failed
2416-xx Video noise pattern test failed
2418-xx ECG/VGC memory test failed
2419-xx ECG/VGC ROM checksum test failed 1. Run the Configuration and Diagnostics 
Utilities.
2. Disconnect external monitor and test 
with internal LCD display.
3. Replace the display assembly and retest.
4. Replace the system board and retest.
2421-xx
ECG/VGC 640 × 200 graphics mode 
test failed
2422-xx ECG/VGC 640 × 350 16 color set test 
failed
2423-xx ECG/VGC 640 × 350 64 color set test 
failed
2424-xx ECG/VGC monochrome text mode test 
failed
2425-xx ECG/VGC monochrome graphics mode 
test failed
2431-xx 640 × 480 graphics test failure
2432-xx 320 × 200 graphics (256 color mode) 
test failure
2448-xx Advanced VGA Controller test failed
2451-xx 132-column Advanced VGA test failed
2456-xx Advanced VGA 256 Color 
test failed
2458-xx Advanced VGA BitBLT test The following step applies to error codes 
2458-xx through 2480-xx:
Replace the system board and retest.
2468-xx
Advanced VGA DAC test
2477-xx Advanced VGA data path test
2478-xx Advanced VGA BitBLT test
2480-xx Advanced VGA LineDraw test
Audio Test Error Codes
3206-xx Audio System Internal Error Replace the system board and retest.
TouchPad/Pointing Device Interface Test Error Codes
8601-xx Mouse test failed 1. Replace the TouchPad and retest.
2. Replace the system board and retest.
8602-xx Interface test failed
CD Drive Test Error Codes
3301-xx CD drive read test failed 1. Replace the CD and retest.
2. Verify that the speakers are connected.
3. Verify that drivers are loaded and 
properly installed.
4. Replace the CD drive and retest.
5. Replace the system board and retest.
3305-xx
CD drive seek test failed
6600-xx ID test failed
6605-xx Read test failed
6608-xx Controller test failed
6623-xx Random read test failed
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							Compaq Presario Series Maintenance and Service Guide 
United States     December 6, 2002
Presario 1200 Series
Models: 1234, 1235, 1236, 1237, 1238, 1240, 1242, 1250, and 1252 
Before You BeginSpecificationsParts Catalog
Removal SequenceTroubleshootingBattery Operations
Product DescriptionPin AssignmentsIndex
Compaq Diagnostics
Compaq Diagnostics is installed on the hard drive of the computer. Run t\
he 
Diagnostics utilities when you want to view or test system information a\
nd if 
you have installed or connected devices. If you run Compaq Diagnostics f\
rom 
a diskette, ensure that it is version 10.11 or later.
The Diagnostics menu includes the following utilities: 
n     Computer Checkup (TEST)
n     View System Information (INSPECT)
n     Prepare Computer for a Compaq Service Call (RemotePaq)
If you have a problem you cannot solve, run the Diagnostics utilities be\
fore 
you call for support. Run Computer Checkup and select to save the device\
 list 
to a file and to print or to save the log of errors. Run the View System\
 
Information (INSPECT) utility and select to print or to save that info\
rmation. 
Have the files or the printed information available when you call for su\
pport. 
Computer Checkup (TEST) 
Computer Checkup (TEST) determines whether the various computer 
components and devices are recognized by the system and are functioning \
properly. You can display, print, or save the information generated by 
Computer Checkup.
Follow these steps to run Computer Checkup:
1. Plug the computer into an external power source. (A low battery cond\
ition 
could interrupt the program.)
2. Turn on the external devices that you want to test. Connect the print\
er if 
you want to print a log of error messages.
3. Insert the Compaq Diagnostics diskette in drive A.
4. Turn on or restart the computer. The computer starts from drive A, an\
d the 
Diagnostics Welcome screen appears.
5. Press Enter to continue. The Diagnostics menu appears.
6. Select Computer Checkup from the Diagnostics menu. A Test Option 
menu appears.
7. Select View the Device List from the Test Option menu. A list of the 
installed Compaq devices appears.
8. If the list of installed devices is correct, select OK. The Test Option menu 
appears.
NOTE:If the list is incorrect, ensure that any new devices are installed 
properly. 
9. Select one of the following from the Test Option menu: 
n     Quick Check Diagnostics. Runs a quick, general test on each device with 
a minimal number of prompts. If errors occur, they display when the 
testing is complete. You cannot print or save the error messages.
n     Automatic Diagnostics. Runs unattended, maximum testing of each 
device with minimal prompts. You can choose how many times to run 
the tests, to stop on errors, or to print or save a log of errors.
n     Prompted Diagnostics. Allows maximum control over testing the devices. 
You can choose attended or unattended testing, decide to stop on 
errors, or choose to print or save a log of errors.
10. Follow the instructions on the screen as the devices are tested. Whe\
n 
testing is complete, the Test Option menu appears.
11. Exit the Test Option menu.
12. Exit the Diagnostics menu.
View System Information (INSPECT)
The View System Information (INSPECT) utility provides information abo\
ut 
the computer and installed or connected devices. You can display, print,\
 or 
save the information. 
Follow these steps to run View System Information (INSPECT) from the 
Compaq Diagnostics diskette:
1. Turn on the external devices that you want to test. Connect the print\
er if 
you want to print the information.
2. Insert the Compaq Diagnostics diskette in drive A.
3. Turn on or restart the computer. The computer starts from drive A, an\
d the 
Diagnostics Welcome screen appears.
4. Press Enter to continue. The Diagnostics menu appears.
5. Select View System Information (INSPECT) from the Diagnostics 
menu.
6. Select the item you want to view from the following list:
System Memory
ROM Audio
Keyboard Operating system
System ports System files
System storage Windows files
Graphics
7. Follow the instructions on the screen to cycle through the screens, t\
o 
return to the list and choose another item, or to print the information.\
 
 
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2002 2:43:34 PM] 
						

							Compaq Presario Series Maintenance and Service Guide 
United States     December 6, 2002
Presario 1200 Series
Models: 1234, 1235, 1236, 1237, 1238, 1240, 1242, 1250, and 1252 
Before You BeginSpecificationsParts Catalog
Removal SequenceTroubleshootingBattery Operations
Product DescriptionPin AssignmentsIndex
Contacting Compaq Support
Obtain the following information before contacting Compaq Reseller Suppo\
rt: 
l     Product name
l     Product serial number 
l     Purchase date
l     Conditions under which the problem occurred
l     Any error messages that have occurred
l     Hardware configuration
l     Type of printer connected
l     Hardware/software being used
l     Printed result of Computer Checkup (TEST)
l     Printed copies of CONFIG.SYS and AUTOEXEC.BAT files, if possible
Shipping Preparation
To ship the computer, complete the following steps:
1.  Back up the critical hard drive files. Ensure that backup tapes/disk\
ette are 
not exposed to electrical or magnetic fields while stored in transit.
2.  Turn off the computer and external devices.
3.  Disconnect the external devices from their power sources, then from \
the 
computer. 
IMPORTANT:Ensure that there is no diskette in the diskette drive and that 
there are no PC Cards in the PC slots. 
4.  Close the display and all exterior doors of the computer.
5.  Pack the computer with sufficient packing material to protect it. Us\
e the 
original packing box or similar packaging.
 
 
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							Compaq Presario Series Maintenance and Service Guide 
United States     December 6, 2002
Presario 1200 Series
Models: 1234, 1235, 1236, 1237, 1238, 1240, 1242, 1250, and 1252 
Before You BeginSpecificationsParts Catalog
Removal SequenceTroubleshootingBattery Operations
Product DescriptionPin AssignmentsIndex
Troubleshooting Without Diagnostics
This section provides information about how to identify and correct some\
 common hardware, memory, and software 
problems. It also explains several types of common messages that may be \
displayed on the screen. The following pages 
contain troubleshooting information on:
AudioMemory
Battery/Battery gaugePC Card 
CD drive Power
Diskette/Diskette drivePrinter
DisplayTouch Pad
Hard driveKeyboard/Numeric keypad
Hardware Installation
Since symptoms can appear to be similar, carefully match the symptoms of\
 the computer malfunction against the problem 
description in the Troubleshooting tables to avoid a misdiagnosis.
WARNING:  To avoid a potential shock hazard during troubleshooting procedures, dis\
connect all power sources 
before removing the keyboard cover or the display bezel.
Before Replacing Parts
Verify that cables are connected properly to the suspected defective par\
ts.
 
n     Run Computer Setup after connecting external devices.
n     Verify that all required device drivers are installed.
n     Verify that all required changes have been made to the CONFIG.SYS file.
n     Verify that all required changes have been made to the AUTOEXEC.BAT file.
n     Verify that all printer drivers have been installed for each application\
.
 
 
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							Compaq Presario Series Maintenance and Service Guide 
United States     December 6, 2002
Presario 1200 Series
Models: 1234, 1235, 1236, 1237, 1238, 1240, 1242, 1250, and 1252 
Before You BeginSpecificationsParts Catalog
Removal SequenceTroubleshootingBattery Operations
Product DescriptionPin AssignmentsIndex
Solving Minor Problems
Some minor problems and possible solutions are outlined in the following\
 tables. If the problem 
appears related to a software application, check the documentation provi\
ded with the software.
Solving Audio Problems
Some common audio problems and solutions are listed in the following tab\
le.Solving Audio Problems
Problem Probable CauseSolution(s)
Computer does not beep after the Power-On 
Self-Test (POST). This is typical; it indicates successful 
completion of the Power-On Self-Test 
(POST).No action is required.
 
Solving Battery Pack and Battery Gauge Problems
Some common causes and solutions for battery pack problems are listed in\
 the following table. The 
Solving Power Problems section in this chapter may also be applicable.\
Solving Battery Pack and Battery Gauge Problems
Problem Probable CauseSolution(s)
Computer wont turn on when battery 
pack is inserted and power cord is 
unplugged. Battery pack is discharged.
Connect the computer to an external 
power source and charge the battery 
pack.
Replace the battery pack with a fully 
charged battery pack.
  Check the battery connectors on the 
system board to verify they are evenly 
spaced and that they are not bent or 
broken.
Computer is beeping and battery LED 
icon is blinking. Battery charge is low.
Immediately save any open file(s). Then 
do any one of the following:
l     Connect the computer to an 
external power source to charge 
the battery pack.
l     Turn off the computer or initiate 
Hibernation until you can find 
another power source or charge 
the battery pack.
Computer battery LED icon (front on the 
unit) blinks to indicate low battery 
condition, but computer does not beep. Volume is turned down too low.
Adjust the volume. 
Battery LED icon doesnt light and 
battery pack wont fast charge. Battery pack is already charged.
No action is necessary.
 Battery pack was exposed to 
temperature extremes.Allow time for the battery pack to return 
to room temperature.
 Battery pack is at end of its life.
Replace battery pack.
You have to set the date and time every 
time you turn on the computer. RTC battery is dead.
Replace the RTC battery. 
 
ProblemProbable Cause Solution(s)
Battery charge does not last as long 
as expected. Battery is being exposed to high 
temperatures or extremely cold 
temperatures. Keep the battery pack within the 
recommended operating temperature 
range 50° F to 104° F (10° C to 40° C) 
or recommended storage range
-4° F to 86° F (-20° C to 30° C ). 
Recharge the battery pack.
 Battery has partially self-discharged.
Recharge the battery. Discharge the 
battery completely and then recharge it.
 Power management is disabled.Set a power management level in 
Computer Setup. 
 An external device or PC Card is draining 
the battery.Turn off or disconnect external devices 
when not using them.
Battery pack is warm to the touch 
after charging. Normal warming has occurred due to 
charging. No action is required.
Battery pack operating time is far 
less than the documented average 
operating time. Power management is turned off or 
disabled.
Enable power management in Computer 
Setup and in Windows Power Properties. 
 An external device or PC Card is draining 
the battery.Turn off or disconnect external devices 
when not using them.
 Battery pack has partially self-
discharged.Condition the battery pack by fully 
charging, fully discharging, then fully 
recharging it.
To maintain the charge, leave battery 
packs in the computer when it is 
connected to external power.
If the computer is disconnected from 
external power for more than two 
weeks, remove battery packs from the 
computer to reduce the discharge rate.
 Battery pack is being exposed to high 
temperatures or extremely cold 
temperatures.Keep the battery pack within the 
recommended temperature ranges.
Operating: 50° F to 104° F 
(10° C to 40° C) 
Storage: -4° F to 86° F 
(-20° C to 30° C )
Recharge the battery pack.
 
Solving CD Drive Problems
Some common causes and solutions for CD drive problems are listed in the\
 following table.
Solving CD Drive Problems
Problem
Probable CauseSolution(s)
CD drive cannot read a compact disc. Compact disc is upside down or is 
improperly inserted in the CD drive.Open the CD loading tray, lay the 
compact disc in it (label side up), then 
close the tray.
 CD is CD Plus or Pregap/Track 0 type.
Cannot read these type CDs in 24x. 
Remove the CD.
 
Solving Diskette and Diskette Drive Problems
Some common causes and solutions for diskette and diskette drive problem\
s are listed in the 
following table.
Solving Diskette and Diskette Drive Problems
Problem Probable CauseSolution(s)
Diskette drive cannot write to a 
diskette. Diskette is write-protected.
Disable the diskettes write-
protect feature or use a 
diskette that is not write-
protected.
  Computer is writing to 
the wrong drive.Check the drive letter in the 
path statement.
  Not enough space is left 
on the diskette.Use another diskette. 
  Drive error has occurred.Run Computer Checkup from 
the Compaq Diagnostics 
diskette.
  Diskette is not formatted.Format the diskette. At 
the system prompt, enter
FORMAT A:
Diskette drive cannot read a 
diskette. The wrong type of diskette is 
being used.Use the type of diskette 
required by the drive.
  Diskette has a bad sector.Copy files to hard drive or 
another diskette. Reformat bad 
floppy.
  Drive error has occurred.Run Computer Checkup from 
the Compaq Diagnostics 
diskette.
  Diskette is not 
formatted.Format the diskette. At the 
system prompt, enter
FORMAT A:
Cannot boot from diskette. Bootable diskette is not in 
drive A.Put the bootable diskette in 
drive A. 
  Diskette Boot has incorrect 
setting in Computer Setup. Run Computer Setup and set 
diskette as first to boot.
 
Solving Display Problems 
This section lists some common causes and solutions for computer display\
 and external monitor 
problems.
You can perform a monitor self-test on an external VGA color or monochro\
me monitor by 
disconnecting the monitor from the computer. To do so, complete the foll\
owing steps: 1. Turn off the monitor.
2. Turn off the computer.
3. Disconnect the monitor signal cable from the computer.
4. Turn on the monitor and allow it to warm up for one minute.
The display should be white. A narrow black border may also appear on th\
e left and right sides of 
the display. Either of these displays indicates that the monitor is work\
ing properly.
Solving Display Problems
Problem Probable CauseSolution(s)
Screen is dim. Control for brightness or 
contrast (if applicable) is not 
set properly.Adjust the Brightness of the 
display by using Fn + F7 (¯ ) 
or 
Fn + F8 (­ ).
Adjust the Contrast of the 
display by using Fn + F5 (¯ ) 
or 
Fn + F6 (­ ).
  Computer screen is in direct 
light.Tilt display or move computer.
Screen is blank. Screen save was initiated by 
Power Management due to 
lack of user activity.Press any key or touch the 
Touch Pad.
  Display has overheated.If computer is in direct sunlight, 
move it and allow it to cool off.
Display is blank and the Suspend 
icon is flashing. System is in Suspend mode.
Press any key or touch the 
Touch Pad.
Internal display is blank and the 
screen on an external monitor 
displays information. Display function was switched 
to the external monitor.
Use Fn + F2 to switch between 
LCD or CRT.
 
Problem Probable CauseSolution(s)
Internal display flashes or has garbled 
characters when computer is 
connected to external monitor. Using 1024 × 768 or 
higher resolution on 
external monitor and 
have toggled back to 
internal display, which 
supports up to 
800 × 600.Restart the computer.
The light tubes on the edge of the display panel 
do not light up at all and Power-On Self-Test 
(POST) completes when the unit is powered 
up.**
Improper backlight or display 
cable connections
Replace the display assembly.
 Defective inverter board.
Replace the display assembly.
 Defective display cable.Replace the display assembly.
 Defective display panel.Replace the display assembly.
 Defective system board.Replace the system board.
The light tubes on the edge of the display panel 
do not light up at all and Power-On Self-Test 
(POST) does not complete when the unit is 
powered up.** Defective system board.
Replace the system board.
Backlight (brightness) cannot be adjusted with 
Fn + F7 (¯ ) or 
Fn + F8 (­ ).*** Improper display cable 
connections.
1. Reseat the display cable to the 
system board.
2. Replace the display assembly.
 Defective inverter board.
Replace the display assembly.
 Defective display cable.Replace the display assembly.
 Defective system board.Replace the system board.
Contrast cannot be adjusted with 
Fn + F5 (¯ ) or Fn + F6 (­ ). Improper display cable 
connections.1. Reseat the display cable to the 
system board.
2. Replace the display assembly.
 Defective inverter board.
Replace the display assembly.
 Defective display cable.Replace the display assembly.
 Defective system board.Replace the system board.
This problem indicates that the backlight or its power circuitry has fai\
led. Since you cannot 
observe the POST result on the display panel when the backlight is not f\
unctioning, connect the 
unit to an external monitor before powering the unit up. If an external \
monitor is not available, 
verify that POST completes by opening and closing the display, listening\
 for the single or double 
beep, and watching for the LEDs turn on at the front of the computer.
 
Problem Probable CauseSolution(s)
This display panel has a continuous pattern 
across it (e.g., a jailbars pattern), has a 
single color on it, or has garbled graphics 
across the entire panel. This failure is for 
patterns across the entire panel (not just on 
one section). Improper display cable 
connections
Reseat the display cable to the following 
until the problem is solved:
1. System board
2. Display assembly
Defective display cable. Replace the display assembly.
Defective inverter board. Replace the display assembly.
Defective system board. Replace the system board.
Ghost bars extending from graphics on the 
display. Common characteristic of STN 
displays.1. Change the background colors.
2. Adjust the Contrast of the display by 
using Fn + F5 (¯ ) or Fn + F6 (­ ).
A single line, small group of lines, or block 
appears on the display panel. This failure 
occurs in only a section of the display panel. Defective display panel.
Replace the display assembly.
 
NOTE:To perform a self-test on an external VGA color or monochrome monitor,\
 complete the following steps: The 
screen should be white. A narrow black border may also appear on the lef\
t and right sides of the display. Either of 
these displays indicates that the monitor is working properly.
Solving Hard Drive Problems
Some common causes and solutions for hard drive problems are listed in t\
he following table.
CAUTION: To prevent loss of information, always maintain an up-to-date backup of \
your hard drive at all 
times, in case of errors or failures.
 
Solving Hard Drive Problems
Problem Probable CauseSolution(s)
Reading hard drive takes an unusually 
long time after restarting the computer. System entered Hibernation due to 
low battery condition and is now 
exiting from it.Give the system time to restore the 
previously saved data to its exact state 
before Hibernation.
Hard drive error occurs. Hard drive has bad sectors or has 
failed.Run Computer Checkup.
Hard drive does not work. Hard drive is not seated properly.Turn off and unplug the computer, 
remove the battery pack, and remove 
and then reinstall the hard drive.
Solving Hardware Installation Problems
Some common causes and solutions for hardware installation problems are \
listed in the following 
table.
Solving Hardware Installation Problems
Problem Probable CauseSolutions(s)
A new device is not recognized as 
part of the computer system. Cable(s) of new external 
device are loose or 
power cables are unplugged.Ensure that all cables are 
properly and securely 
connected.
  Power switch of new external 
device is not turned on.Turn off the computer, turn on 
the external device, then turn 
on the computer to integrate 
the device with the computer 
system.
  Device is not seated properly.Turn off the computer and 
reinsert the device.
 
Solving Keyboard/Numeric Keypad Problems
Some common causes and solutions for keyboard/numeric keypad problems ar\
e listed in the 
following table.
Solving Keyboard/Numeric Keypad Problems
Problem Probable CauseSolution(s)
Embedded numeric keypad on 
computer keyboard is disabled. Num Lock function is not 
enabled.Press the Shift+NumLk keys 
to enable the Num Lock 
function and embedded 
numeric keypad. The Num 
Lock icon on the status panel 
turns on.
Embedded numeric keypad is 
disabled and Num Lock function is 
on. External numeric keypad is 
connected to the computer.
Disconnect the external 
numeric keypad from the 
computer.
 
Solving Memory Problems
Some common causes and solutions for memory problems are listed in the f\
ollowing table. Solving Memory Problems
Problem Probable CauseSolution(s)
Memory count during Power-On Self-
Test (POST) is incorrect. Optional memory expansion 
card is installed incorrectly, 
is incompatible with 
the computer, or is defective.Ensure that the optional 
memory expansion card is 
installed correctly.
Out of Memory message is 
displayed on the screen or 
insufficient memory error occurs 
during operation. System ran out of 
memory for the application.
Check the application 
documentation for memory 
requirements.
Install additional memory.
Too many TSR (terminate-
and stay-resident) 
applications are running. Remove from memory any 
TSR applications that you do 
not need.
Solving Minor Problems (continued) 
 
 
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/2002 2:43:57 PM]