Compaq Contura Aero Frequently Asked Questions

Archive-name: pc-hardware-faq/laptops/compaq-aero
Posting-Frequency: 57 days
Last-modified: 2002/04/29
Version: 3.31
URL: http://www.zenspider.edu/~pwilk/aero/aero-faq.txt


------------------------------

Subject: Introduction

Compaq Contura Aero Frequently Asked Questions Version 3

Editors:

Philip Wilk (Version 3) Current
Ekkehard Rohwedder (Version 2.0)
Renee Roberts (Version 1.0)

To send submissions, corrections or deletions for this FAQ, please email
pwilk-faq@zenspider.com or post to the aero mailing list.

This document is to be freely distributed. Under _no_ circumstance should
a fee be charged for the procurement of this FAQ. It is the sole property
of everybody who has contributed (a whole bunch of way cool folks).

------------------------------

Subject: Short Contents

1 General
1.1 About this FAQ
1.2 Resources
1.3 Technical Data
1.4 User Opinions
1.5 Who's using an Aero
2 Hardware
2.1 Aero
2.2 Accessories
3 Software
3.1 Upgrades
3.2 Configuration
3.3 Operating Systems

------------------------------

Subject: Long Contents

1 General
1.1 About this FAQ
1.1.1 Where to find the FAQ
1.2 Resources
1.2.1 Internet
1.2.2 Mailing List
1.2.2.1 Unsubscribing to the mailing list
1.2.3 Companies that carry Aero parts and supplies
1.3 Technical Data
1.3.1 Exploded View
1.3.2 System Unit
1.3.3 Passive Matrix Monochrome Display
1.3.4 Passive Matrix Color Display
1.3.5 Stock Hard Drives
1.3.6 Internal Power Supply
1.3.7 Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) Battery Pack
1.3.8 AC Adapter
1.3.9 Convenience Base
1.3.10 External Diskette Drive
1.3.11 Video Controller
1.3.12 Part Numbers
1.4 User Opinions
1.4.1 Is the machine really that bad?
1.4.2 Opinions on Aero features (The Quick FAQs)
1.5 Who's using an Aero
2 Hardware
2.1 Aero
2.1.1 CPU
2.1.1.1 Is it upgradeable?
2.1.1.2 Is it FPU upgradeable?
2.1.2 Memory (RAM)
2.1.2.1 How do you upgrade?
2.1.2.3 How much are memory upgrades?
2.1.3 How to disassemble the Aero
2.1.3.1 The tale of a journey inside.
2.1.4 Hard Drive
2.1.4.1 Partitions
2.1.4.2 Noisy 84Mb hard drives
2.1.4.3 Upgrading the hard drive
2.1.4.4 Hard Drive installation
2.1.4.4.1 Prequel to the step-by-step tutorial
2.1.4.4.2 A step-by-step tutorial
2.1.4.5 Installing the old drive in your desktop.
2.1.4.6 Fixing the Master Boot Record
2.1.4.7 Aero harddrive upgrade list
2.1.4.8 External harddrive solutions
2.1.5 Screen
2.1.5.1 The pulsing backlight puzzle
2.1.5.2 The screen connection
2.1.5.3 What if my screen is unevenly backlit?
2.1.5.4 800x600x16 VGA mode
2.1.5.5 Special supported 256 color VGA modes
2.1.5.6 Special supported text modes?
2.1.5.7 Screen hinge problem (the darn "display clutch")
2.1.5.8 Screen Disassembly
2.1.5.9 Backlight Replacement
2.1.6 Keyboard
2.1.6.1 Aero keyboard diagrams
2.1.7 Trackball
2.1.7.1 Replacement Trackball
2.1.7.2 Cleaning Trackball
2.1.7.3 Ballistic Mouse driver?
2.1.7.4 Trackball and left-handedness?
2.1.8 Battery and Power Brick
2.1.8.1 Replacing the Battery
2.1.8.2 Conditioning and the Memory effect in NiMH batteries
2.1.8.2.1 Conditioning the Battery without a conditioner
2.1.8.3 Battery Warning
2.1.8.4 Batteries discharging too quickly when suspended
2.1.8.5 Super-fast recharge? Charge indicators?
2.1.8.6 Battery Monitoring
2.1.8.7 Battery Loose?
2.1.8.8 Please explain the aero battery
2.1.8.9 Recharging in the auto
2.1.8.10 Power Brick
2.1.9 Ports
2.1.9.1 Is the printer port an EPP port?
2.1.9.2 Mouse on serial port
2.1.9.3 PS/2 Mouse port
2.1.9.4 Serial Port (16550AF UART)
2.1.9.5 Port Expander (the other port)
2.1.10 Speaker
2.1.11 CMOS (ROM)
2.1.11.1 Replacing the CMOS Battery
2.1.11.2 CMOS and ROM errors
2.1.12 The Year 2000 (Y2K)
2.2 Accessories
2.2.1 Floppy Drive
2.2.1.1 Floppy Drive and BIOS support
2.2.1.2 Connecting with out powering down
2.2.1.3 Aero does not recognize floppy drive
2.2.1.4 Problems reading/formatting disks
2.2.1.5 Do you need a floppy?
2.2.1.6 You still do not think you need a floppy?
2.2.1.7 Repairing the Floppy Drive
2.2.2 PCMCIA
2.2.2.1 Should I install the new V1.25 PCMCIA driver disk?
2.2.2.2 Compaq-approved cards
2.2.2.3 PCMCIA type III cards?
2.2.2.4 PCMCIA modems (& FAX/Modems), reviews
2.2.2.5 PCMCIA FAX/Modems and Suspend/Resume
2.2.2.6 External Monitor
2.2.2.7 Sound cards
2.2.2.8 Ethernet cards
2.2.2.9 Storage Devices and Multiple function cards
2.2.3 Parallel Port devices
2.2.3.1 Sound
2.2.3.2 Storage Devices
2.2.5 Ethernet Adapters
2.2.6 Expanders
2.2.6.1 Can I make my own expander?
2.2.6.2 Mobile Port Expander
2.2.6.3 Convenience Base
2.2.7 Power Adapters
2.2.8 Case
2.2.9 SCSI
2.2.10 Other things
3 Software
3.1 Upgrades
3.1.1 Service Files
3.1.1.2 PCMCIA Drivers and Utilities
3.1.1.3 Enhanced Parallel Port (EPP) Drivers
3.1.1.4 Windows Stuff
3.1.1.5 Utilities
3.1.1.6 Diagnostics and Portable Setup
3.1.1.7 Mouse Drivers
3.1.2 Softpaqs
3.1.2.1 Rundown on Softpaq installation procedure
3.1.2.2 ROMPaq versions
3.1.2.3 Install a Softpaq without using the floppy drive?
3.1.2.4 Determining the BIOS date
3.2 Configuration (see also appropriate operating system)
3.2.1 Tabular Rasa (clean slate)
3.2.2 Power-Management
3.2.2.1 Problems when Power-up from standby
3.2.2.2 PCMCIA modems and Suspend/Resume crashing
3.2.2.3 Forcing hibernation
3.2.2.4 Spin down disk/disable powersaver when on AC power
3.2.2.5 Is there a disk sleep hotkey?
3.2.2.7 Windows vs. power management and the date problem
3.2.3 Networking/Linking
3.2.3.1 Lap2Desk and WinLink
3.2.3.2 WinLink problems
3.2.3.3 Network File System (NFS)
3.2.4 Diagnostics Partition
3.3 Operating Systems
3.3.1 MS-DOS
3.3.1.1 Standard CONFIG.SYS & AUTOEXEC.BAT
3.3.1.2 What is in CONFIG.SYS & AUTOEXEC.BAT?
3.3.1.3 Memory managers
3.3.1.4 Disk compression
3.3.2 Windows 3.1
3.3.2.1 Problems with WinFax Lite
3.3.2.2 Windows Video driver
3.3.2.3 Problems with Windows Speaker Driver
3.3.2.4 PCMCIA Stuff
3.3.2.5 Problems with Modems/Serial Devices
3.3.2.6 32 bit disk access or no?
3.3.2.7 Windows for Workgroups
3.3.2.8 Speaker Driver
3.3.3 Windows95
3.3.3.1 The path to '95 by copying setup to the aero
3.3.3.2 The path to '95 by installing via Winlink (Lap2desk)
3.3.3.3 Win95 upgrade inventory
3.3.3.4 PCMCIA, the floppy drive, and getting it to work
3.3.3.5 Networking
3.3.3.6 Running Windows 95 and Windows 3.x
3.3.3.7 Repartitioning
3.3.3.8 Contura Aero, EPP, and Parallel Port Zip Drive
3.3.3.9 Common Problems
3.3.3.10 Internal Speaker Driver
3.3.3.11 Hibernate, Suspend, Power Management, and ilk
3.3.4 Windows 98
3.3.5 Windows NT
3.3.6 Linux
3.3.6.1 Linux and the Aero
3.3.6.2 Recommended Kernel
3.3.6.3 Conserving memory
3.3.6.4 Installation without Floppy
3.3.6.5 X-configuration for color
3.3.6.6 X-configuration for mono
3.3.6.7 HD configs, Windows, and other musings
3.3.6.8 Parallel Port Things
3.3.6.9 Monkey Distribution
3.3.7 Other UNIX
3.3.8 OS/2
3.3.8.1 Can I run OS/2on the Aero?
3.3.8.2 OS/2 Installation Problems
3.3.8.3 OS/2 Warp in 4MB RAM?
3.3.8.4 Aero floppy under Warp?
3.3.8.5 PCMCIA supported under OS/2?
3.4 Original Compaq Software Disks

------------------------------

Subject: 1 General

------------------------------

Subject: 1.1 About this FAQ

This FAQ was compiled due to requests for various information that can
best be answered with a FAQ. It may help to reduce bandwidth for common
questions and problems relating to the Compaq Aero(tm). The authors are
not affiliated with Compaq Computer Corp, or any affiliate of theirs. We
own Compaq Aeros, and wish to help others with their questions regarding
the Aero. We hope to update this FAQ on a regular basis, but there are no
guarantees.

This FAQ is actually a collaborative effort from many individuals on
aero-l whose questions and answers were incorporated. Although
digestifying lots of posts results in a less authoritative style for the
FAQ, I believe it makes for a more spellbinding reading (e.g. watching
over somebody's shoulder as they disassemble the Aero and upgrade the
hard disk). Also, often there is more than one possible answer, or the
answer is not known (perhaps you know it?).

Undoubtedly there are still many bugs, errors, or obscure things in this
FAQ. You are welcome to send us your contributions/corrections or
suggestions. The usual disclaimer applies: the authors and contributors
disavow any responsibility for the information contained in this
document. If following the FAQ makes your Aero go up in smoke, do not
blame us (but, if it makes for good reading, tell us about it. Heck, tell
us about it even when it was not caused by the FAQ). You have been warned!

- Ekkehard Rohwedder

There are some stylistic differences between Ekkehard Rohwedder's FAQ
and mine. I have chosen to site my references by including some of the
mail header of the original posting (Date and From) when ever possible.
These entries are preceded by a [C] indicating the following is a
comment. Ekkehard Rohwedder used a [Q] and [A] format, with a big list
of all the contributers at the end. There are still some entries of the
old format left in the FAQ with incomplete attributions. I apologize if
any contributors have not been referenced in a proper fashion, and I
also apologize if I include an email address that was not intended to be
distributed. I will seek to fix such problems quickly as they arise, but
as of yet, nobody has complained.

- Philip Wilk

------------------------------

Subject: 1.1.1 Where to find the FAQ

You can find the FAQ at:

http://www.zenspider.com/~pwilk/aero_stuff.html

Because we are an official FAQ (ie news.answers and comp.answers), You
can also find the FAQ at any Usenet FAQ archive such as
<ftp://rtfm.mit.edu>. It should be archived under:

pc-hardware-faq/laptops/compaq-aero

and at www.faq.org archive at the following URL:
http://www.faqs.org/faqs/pc-hardware...ps/compaq-aero

I have created the FAQ in a consistant format that should be easily
digested into HTML. Infact, some people have done this to most public faqs
that are distributed on usenet. If you want the faq broken up in a
multi-part HTML document, point your browser at:

http://www.landfield.com/faqs/pc-har.../preamble.html

------------------------------

Subject: 1.2 Resources

This is a specialized FAQ for the Compaq Contura Aero. There might be
some general information to be found that is applicable to other hardware.
For information on laptops in general, see
http://www.enteract.com/~epbrown for the Laptop FAQ.

------------------------------

Subject: 1.2.1 Internet

For additional information, please consult the following:
(thanks for the update Ulrich Hansen)

WWW Sites:

<http://home.att.net/~epbrown01/> - Home of the laptop FAQ for
the comp.sys.laptops newsgroup

MANUFACTURER

<http://www.compaq.com> - the Compaq WWW site.

<http://www.compaq.com/productinfo/notebooks/aero.pg.html>
Compaq's support page for the out of production aero that includes
part numbers and other support items.
<http://www7.compaq.com/forum?CPQ004@197.jz8tdahKri1^0@.ee7e98f!lang=English>
Compaq's support forum for the out of production aero.

NON-BUSINESS AERO SITES

<http://www.zenspider.com/~pwilk/aero_stuff.html> - Philip Wilk's
WWW page on the Aero with links to many avaliable resources.

<http://www.stud.uni-karlsruhe.de/%7Eukgh/aero/aero.htm> - A
Little Aero Page.

<http://www.geocities.com/broadway/3369/mhome/aero.html>
- Ruel's Compaq Contura Aero Page

<http://conturaaero.tripod.com/> - Contura Aero Land

LINUX/UNIX AND AERO

<http://website.lineone.net/~brichardson/linux/4mb_laptops/4mb_Laptops.html>
information on running Linux on laptops with only 4mb of memory.
<http://www.cns.nyu.edu/~masmith/aero/>
Matt's Compaq Contura Aero Linux Page

<http://www.xmission.com/~bgeer/laptop_aero.html>
Robert Geer: Installing Linux on a Compaq Contura Aero 4/33C Laptop

<http://www.alvestrand.no/linux/aero-faq.html>
Ali Albayrak/Harald.T.Alvestrand: Frequently asked Linux-specific
questions about the Compaq Contura Aero

<http://www.home.unix-ag.org/nils/compaq425c.html>
Getting XFree for Linux to run on the Aero

<http://www.lonsteins.com/unix/linux/linux_laptops_cpqaero.html>
Experiences of installing UNIX on an aero


OS/2 AND OTHERS

<http://www.netlib.org/utk/people/ReedWade/aero_os2.html>
Compaq Aero OS/2 Warp Installation Notes

<http://www.netlib.org/utk/people/ReedWade/aero_oss.html>
Operating System Round Up


TOPICAL USENET NEWSGROUPS:

<news:comp.sys.laptops>, <news:comp.os.linux>,
<news:comp.os.ms-windows>, <news:comp.os.ms-dos>, and
<news:comp.os.os2>.

If you post to these groups, put the word "aero" somewhere in the
subject line so that it is easy for other aero owners to search
for topical posts. Avoid cross-posting.

You can also access the Aero Mailing List via newsgroup at
<news://news.aisb.org/aisb.lists.aero>.


FTP SITES:

<ftp://ftp.compaq.com>.

<ftp://cs.utk.edu/pub/aero/> Archives of the old aero mailing
list.

[C] From: "Martin Ramsch"
Subject: Re: Website list
Date: Thu, 22 Nov 2001 21:07:36 +0100

"Ulrich Hansen" schrieb im Newsbeitrag
> I also have five dead links included: "The Compaq Press Releases". If
> anybody has already downloaded and archieved the contents, I would be happy
> to get them as email attachment.
[...]

There is a fantastic WWW archive at

http://www.archive.org/

which aims at archiving the complete web -- and does an
astonishing good job ...!

> NOT AVAILABLE ANY MORE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
>
> Compaq Press Releases Feb. 7, 1994 "Compaq Introduces World's First 'No
> Compromise' Affordable Subnotebook PC" June 1, 1994
> http://www.compaq.com/newsroom/pr/1994/pr070294a.html
>
> "Compaq Lowers Prices On Portables, Desktops And Servers"
> http://www.compaq.com/newsroom/pr/1994/pr010694a.html
>
> Aug. 15, 1994 "Compaq Offers Comprehensive Price Reductions On Most
> Prolinea, Deskpro And Contura Models"
> http://www.compaq.com/newsroom/pr/1994/pr150894a.html
>
> Oct. 14, 1994 "Compaq Contura Aero and Presario Products Win Design &
> Engineering Awards" Dec. 22, 1994
> http://www.compaq.com/newsroom/pr/1994/pr141094a.html
>
> Compaq to Exhibit Presario and Contura Aero Products at CES "
> http://www.compaq.com/newsroom/pr/1994/pr221294a.html

All five pages are still available there at:
http://web.archive.org/web/200104050...pr070294a.html
http://web.archive.org/web/200104050...pr010694a.html
http://web.archive.org/web/200104050...pr150894a.html
http://web.archive.org/web/200104050...pr141094a.html
http://web.archive.org/web/200104050...pr221294a.html

------------------------------

Subject: 1.2.2 Mailing List

To receive the lastest info on the aero mailing list, please send mail to
majordomo@aisb.org with "info aero" as the body of the email message.

You can also access the mailing list as a unsenet newsgroup:
<news://news.aisb.org/aisb.lists.aero>.

The help returned should look something like (but for the most current
and up-to-date information, request the inforrmation yourself):

>>>> info aero
Welcome to the AERO mailing list, the mailing list for people
interested in the Compaq Contura Aero subnotebook computers.

To send something to the members of the list, mail it
to "AERO@AISB.ORG".

To subscribe to the list, unsubscribe from the list, or to
change your address, send a request to MAJORDOMO@AISB.ORG.
This is handled by a Majordomo list server. A message with
just the word "HELP" in its body will provide instructions on
how to edit your subscription information.

(If you sent your subscribe message to AERO@AISB.ORG, it may
have been redistributed to the whole list. So please use the
MAJORDOMO address to request administrative changes.)

Daily digests are now available. To get these, subscribe to the
"AERO-DIGEST" list instead of the "AERO" list.

There is an archive of the list available upon request.

Another useful source of Aero info is
http://www.zenspider.com/~pwilk/aero_stuff.html

When posting questions or informative messages to the list it is
often important to indicate what operating system you are using.
The Aero list includes people running Windows 3.1, Windows 95,
OS/2, Linux and others.

Doug DeJulio

Doug DeJuio's Aero is doing duty as the list server for this list:

Christian Perrier wrote:
>
> Am I misunderstanding or do you really said that the aero mailing list
> listserver is run on your aero?

Exactly correct. This has been true for quite a while now (a few years).

> If so, I'd interested in details about your setup...

It's running Debian Linux, and using a LinkSys PCMCIA ethernet card to
connect to a T1. It's got 12M of RAM and about 500M of disk, and it
just sits in a corner all day providing services. It provides:
* mailing list server for this list
* web server (http://www.aisb.org/)
* IMAP/POP and SMTP servers for my friends and family
* user accounts with shell access for my friends and family
* anonymous FTP (some Aero-related stuff) at ftp.aisb.org

Running Linux, the Aero is fully up to the task of providing all those
services, even with just 12M/500M (though sorting and updating a mail
folder with >1500 messages in Pine can be pretty slow).

A little while back I basically destroyed my battery (it only holds a
charge for about 10 minutes now), so it's on AC power. Also, someone
bumped into it in the machine room, and the battery door cover broke,
and it has since gone missing. Also, someone bumped into the ethernet
card, and the transciever is now basically only attached with bubble gum
and string.

Doug DeJulio

------------------------------

Subject: 1.2.2.1 Unsubscribing to the mailing list

You should have gotten this information when you subscribed, and you
should have saved it for future reference. To unsubscribe, write to
majordomo@aisb.org and in the body of the message put "unsubscribe aero"
or "unsubscribe aero-digest" and that should get you off the list. If that
does not work, get the help file by putting "help" in the body of the
message to majordomo.

------------------------------

Subject: 1.2.3 Companies that carry Aero parts and supplies

The aero has been discontinued for some time now. It has been increasingly
more and more difficult to find parts and supplies, but they are certainly
out there. If you do find them, you oftem find them at quite a bargain.

[C] i have found nice 4000 mAH batteries here
http://www.sabahoceanic.com/nbcompaq.html
for $63.30 + $5 shipping. its much better than 2400mAH battery for $99 i
have seen at Fry's and in Micro Center

[C] as of January 2001, for memory

Impediment Incorporated
541 Plain Street
Marshfield, MA 02050-2713

(781) 834-3800

FAX:834-3666

part number:
KTC-AERO/16
16MB MODULE AERO

[C] http://www.buycomp.com , DR-31 battery for $75

[C] http://www.easyhosting.com/pcoutlet/main.html

[C] From: Evelyn Lee
Date: Fri, 16 Oct 1998 13:02:09 -0700

Reliable Computer Parts, Inc in Springfield, Virginia;
also found on the internet at www.rcp.com. They have a great purchase
program called replacement price, purchase price, and zapback price.
The replacement price is the price including exchanging your broken
item, the purchase is straight purchase, and the zapback is a
competitive price that you tell them about and they will try to meet to
be competitive. Phone: (800) 569-5300. If you know your part number,
this is a great way to go.

[C] Subject: On-line Auctions
Date: 29 Oct 1998

Do a search for Aero and/or Compaq at: http://www.ebay.com

[C] Subject: Xtend Hypercharger/Conditioner
Date: 29 October 1998

http://www.xmpi.com/html/product_faq.html
http://www.xmpi.com/html/compaq_hc.html

[C] Date: 1996

Compaq Direct 1-800-888-6079.
Compaq Works 1-800-318-6919.
J&R Music World 1-800-221-8180

[C] Subject: Excellent service at PC Service - pass it on...
Date: Thu, 25 Jun 1998 08:53:43 -0500
From: "Brockwell, Stephen E."

I have to pass on this info about the excellent service I received from
PC Service. ( http://www.pcservice.com )

Called them after noon on Monday this week and ordered a clutch hinge
for my Aero. Price with shipping about $33 and was told that it would
probably be at my house by Friday. It was delivered at 10 AM Tuesday
(less than 24 hours). I live in Elgin OK and the part was sent from Ft
Worth TX.... about 180 miles away. Longer distances may mean longer
delivery times.(your mileage may vary, etc) After putting the part in
and making my Aero live again, I called PC Service at: 1-800-340-2667 to
tell them about the good job they did and to pass on the thanks to the
most senior supervisor I could get. They seemed to be astounded that
anyone would call to talk about good service but they deserved it.

A satisfied customer......

ed. note: Date: 2 April 1999, It seems that many people are very
satisfied with the folks at PC Service. As of now, they still have the
aero clutch in stock.

[C] WARNING, DO NOT DO BUISINESS WITH THESE PEOPLE!
Date: Sep 1996
Subject: Re: Looking for an Aero

>Barnett's Cptr Whse(NY,NY) has a package deal -

I bought my aero from these bastards, and the whole business was a nightmare.
I would strongly advise no member of the list to deal with this company-they
are the most dishonest, rude bunch you will meet. It's not just me either:
comp.sys.laptops has nothing good to say about them.

Go somewhere else.

------------------------------

Subject: 1.3 Technical Data

The specifications below are from Compaq Computer Corp WWW Page
http://www.compaq.com (unless noted differently)

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS -- Publication Date: April 1995 Source Document:
Product Bulletin Document Number: 024A/0395

------------------------------

Subject: 1.3.1 Exploded View

See <http://www.zenspider.com/~pwilk/aero_stuff.html> for diagrams.

------------------------------

Subject: 1.3.2 System Unit


Dimensions (Height x Width x Depth):
Contura Aero 4/25 1.5 x 10.25 x 7.5 inches
(3.8 x 26 x 19 cm)
Contura Aero 4/33c 1.7 x 10.25 x 7.5 inches
(4.3 x 26 x 19 cm)
Weight (Contura Aero 4/25):
Model 170 standard battery 3.5 lb (1.63 kg)
Model 170 extended life battery 4.0 lb (1.81 kg)
Weight (Contura Aero 4/33C):
Model 170 4.2 lb (1.9 kg)
Model 250
Power Requirements 10.8 V
Temperature Range:
Operating 50oF to 104oF (10oC to 40oC)
Nonoperating -4oF to 140oF (-20oC to 60oC)
Relative Humidity (noncondensing):
Operating 10% to 90%
Nonoperating 5% to 95%
Shock:
Operating 10G, 11 ms, half sine
Nonoperating 60G, 11 ms, half sine
Vibration:
Operating 0.25G, 5 - 500 Hz 1/2 octave/min
sweep 1 hour duration
Nonoperating 1G, 5 - 500 Hz, 1 hour duration
Maximum Altitude (unpressurized):
Operating 10,000 ft (3,658 m)
Nonoperating 30,000 ft (12,192 m)

------------------------------

Subject: 1.3.3 Passive Matrix Monochrome Display

Dimensions (Height x Width) 4.82 x 6.42 inches
(12.24 x 16.32 cm)
Diagonal Size 8.03 inches (20.4 cm)
Mounting Internal
Display Type MSTN-Backlit LCD
Gray Scales 16 inch 640 x 480
64 inch 320 x 200
Brightness/Contrast Adjustable through keyboard
Maximum Pixel Resolution 640 x 480
Character Display 80 x 25
Horizontal Frequency 31.2 KHz (CRT mode); 32 KHz (LCD mode)
Vertical Frequency 125 Hz (60 VGA/70 CGA)
Display Inverter Board:
Operating Voltage (Backlight) +5.1 V, +9 V, +18.7 V
Operating Output Voltage 310 Vrms
Maximum Input Power 1.8 W
Maximum Output Power 1.25 Wrms

------------------------------

Subject: 1.3.4 Passive Matrix Color Display


Dimensions (Height x Width) 4.74 x 6.32 inches
(12.05 x 16.1 cm)
Diagonal Size 7.75 inch (19.69 cm)
Mounting Internal
Display Type CSTN-Backlit LCD
Color Resolution 256 colors - low resolution
(320 x 200)

16 colors - high resolution
(640 x 480)
Brightness/Contrast Adjustable through keyboard
Maximum Pixel Resolution 640 x 480
Character Display 80 x 25
Horizontal Frequency 31.2 KHz (CRT mode) 32 KHz (LCD mode)
Vertical Frequency 125 Hz (70 VGA/70 CGA)
Display Inverter Board:
Operating Voltage (Backlight) +26 V, +34 V, +38 V

Maximum Input Power 2.8 W

Maximum Output Power (Backlight) 2.0 Wrms

------------------------------

Subject: 1.3.5 Stock Hard Drives

Hard drive specifications may vary slightly depending on vendor.


170 MB 250 MB
=================================
Formatted Capacity Per Drive 171.6 MB 256.0 MB
Drives Supported One One
Drive Height (with drive frame) 0.5 inch 0.5 inch
(12.7 mm) (12.7 mm)
Drive Size 2.5 x 0.5 inches 2.5 x 0.5 inches
(6.35 x 1.27 cm) (6.35 x 1.27 cm)
Drive Type 65 65
Transfer Rate:
Media 14.3 - 22.1 Mbits/sec 35.9 Mbits/sec
Interface 4 MB/sec 4 MB/sec
Seek Times (including settling):
Track-to-Track 7 ms 5.0 ms
Average 20 ms 17 ms
Maximum 28 ms 24.0 ms
Physical Configuration:
Cylinders 1440 1704
Heads 4 4
Sectors/Track 48 - 72 92 - 54
Bytes Per Sector 512 512
Logical Configuration:
Cylinders 873 723
Head 16 11
Sectors/Track 24 63
Bytes Per Sector 512 512
NOTE 1: Hard drive specifications may vary slightly depending on vendor.

[C] Date: Wed, 21 May 1997 16:51:19 -0700
From: Pavel Svitek

Quantum ProDrive 40/80AT Configuration Guide

CMOS Values

Capacity 40MB 80MB
Cylinders 965 965
Heads 5 10
Sectors 17 17
Write Precomp 65535 65535
Landing Zone 965 965

Note on Write Pre-compensation:
The Quantum ProDrive series drive does not require write pre-compensation,
your CMOS setting should be set to reflect that this feature is not
enabled. If the setting of 'none' is not present, the value 65535 is a
number that the BIOS will accept to disable this feature.

Related Documentation:

Jumper definitions

Quantum IDE disk drives have multiple jumper setting options and are used
to set specific drive features. The most common settings are used to define
the drive as the primary or secondary drive on the IDE cable. [Master /
Slave] Quantum IDE drives have additional jumper settings used for optional
features found on the drive. Listed below are the various jumper options
that may be found on Quantum IDE drives and the corresponding feature that
they enable.


DS Jumper - Drive Select

Used to identify the drive as the primary [MASTER] drive in a single or
dual drive configuration. This is the factory default setting.

SP Jumper - Slave Present

Used only when the second [SLAVE] drive in a two drive configuration does
not support DASP. DASP (Drive active / drive 1 present) is a CAM (Common
Access Method) defined signal that indicates the presence of a second
drive, DASP is used during power on initialization and after a reset. Prior
to this definition, products were introduced which did not utilize this
method to detect the presence of a second drive. The SP jumper is used on
the MASTER drive, with the DS jumper, when the second drive does not
support DASP.

CS Jumper - Cable Select

Only used in systems that support the cable select feature. Cable Select
allows for each IDE disk drive to be jumped the same and the position on
the cable determines the ID. This requires a special cable and both drives
on the interface would have to support this feature.

PK Jumper - Park [Spare]

This jumper does not enable any feature. It is used, instead, to provide a
spare location to any jumper removed from the drive during a configuration
change.


Jumper Settings

Single Drive: DS only
Master Drive: DS only
Slave Drive: No jumpers

__________________
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| ss |
| ds |
|________________|


------------------------------

Subject: 1.3.6 Internal Power Supply


Input Requirements:
Input Voltage 10.8 - 17.5 VDC
Standby 10.8 - 17.5 VDC

Power Output:
Steady State 10 W
Peak 17 W
VDC Output V01 (+5) V02 (+12) 60 0 mA V03 (+40)
Nominal Voltage 5.10 V 12.0 V 43.0 V
Continuous Current 1.25 A 60.0 mA 40.0 mA
Peak Current 3.0A 60.0 mA 40.0 mA
Regulation Tolerance +/- 3% +/- 5% +/- 5%

------------------------------

Subject: 1.3.7 Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) Battery Pack

Dimensions (Height x Width x Depth):
Standard .725 x 2.04 x 5.37 inches
(1.84 x 5.18 x 13.64 cm)
Extended Life .725 x 2.04 x 8.07 inches
(1.84 x 5.18 x 20.5 cm)
Weight:
Standard .696 lb (.316 kg)
Extended Life 1.09 lb (.494 kg)
Power Supply:
Nominal Voltage 10.8
Capacity 1500 mAh (standard)
2300 mAh (extended life)
Battery Life (NOTE 2):
Contura Aero 4/25 2.5 to 4 hours (standard)
Contura Aero 4/33 C 2.5 to 4 hours
Environmental Requirements:
Operating 50oF to 104oF (10oC to 40oC)
Nonoperating -4oF to 122oF (-20oC to 50oC)
NOTE 2: Battery life is based on an estimated typical use pattern of an
average user. Battery life will vary based on the configuration
of the computer and the usage pattern of the individual user. To
maximize battery life, Compaq recommends that power conservation
be set to high.

------------------------------

Subject: 1.3.8 AC Adapter

Dimensions (Height x
Width x Depth) 1.1 x 2.24 x 2.4 inches
(2.79 x 11.68 x 6.1 cm)

Weight (without cords) 6 oz (0.227 kg)

Voltage 17.5 - 20 volts, 1.4 amps

Power:
Minimum 17
Maximum 20
Minimum Charge Time 1.0 hour

------------------------------

Subject: 1.3.9 Convenience Base

Dimensions (Height x
Width x Depth) 2.63 x 12.4 x 12.0 inches
(6.67 x 31.6 x 30.5 cm)
Weight 2.9 lb (1.32 kg)

Environmental Requirements:
Operating 50oF to 104oF (10oC to 40oC)
Nonoperating -7.6oF to 140oF (-20oC to 60oC)
Relative Humidity (noncondensing):
Operating 10% to 90%
Nonoperating 5% to 95%
Shock:
Operating 10 g, 11 ms, half sine
Nonoperating 60 g, 11 ms, half sine
Vibration:
Operating 0.25 g, 5 - 500 Hz/octave/min sweep
Nonoperating 1.00 g, 5 - 500 Hz/octave/min sweep
Maximum Unpressurized Altitude:
Operating 10,000 ft (3,658 m)
Nonoperating 40,000 ft (15,750 m)

------------------------------

Subject: 1.3.10 External Diskette Drive

Dimensions (H x W x D):
Disk Drive 1.10 x 4.25 x 5.87 inches
(2.8 x 10.8 x 14.9 cm)
PCMCIA Interface Card .19 x 2.13 x 4.37 inches
(48 x 5.4 x 11.1 cm)
Diskette Size 3.5 inch (8.89 cm)
Weight 12.2 oz (340 g)
LED Indicator Green
Capacity Per Diskette 1.44 MB (720 KB)
I/O Space Configurations:
Primary 3FX
Secondary 37X
PCMCIA Interface Card Type II
Read/Write Heads 2
Voltage Requirement +5 Vdc
Environmental Requirements:
Operating 41oF to 113oF (5oC to 45oC)
Nonoperating -7.6oF to 140oF (-22oC to 60oC)
Relative Humidity (noncondensing):
Operating 10% to 90%
Nonoperating 5% to 90%
Shock:
Operating 8 G, 11 ms, half sine
Nonoperating 100 G, 11 ms, half sine
Vibration:
Operating 1.0 G, 5 - 500 Hz/octave/min sweep
Nonoperating 1.5 G, 5 - 500 Hz/octave/min sweep
Acoustic Noise 33 dBA
Maximum Unpressurized Altitude:
Operating 9,850 ft (3,077 m)
Nonoperating 50,000 ft (12,308m)
NOTE 1: Hard drive specifications may vary slightly depending on vendor.
2: Battery life is based on an estimated typical use pattern of an
average user. Battery life will vary based on the configuration
of the computer and the usage pattern of the individual user. To
maximize battery life, Compaq recommends that power conservation
be set to high.

------------------------------

Subject: 1.3.11 Video Controller

[C] Date: Tue, 17 Feb 1998 14:41:48 +0100
From: Markus Gebhard

I have looked for something in the FAQ and happened to find the chapter:

Video Controller

It is from Christian Rausch and I do not know when this informations
have been written down. But this informations are all pretty much out of
date, for we know much more about the Aero's graphics. It is all written
down at http://kakadu.rz.uni-passau.de/~gebhar03/aero/video.htm

Here is the peace of information most related to 1.3.11:

The 4/33c ueses a SPC8106F0b, not a SPC8108. It has 512k of RAM but the
model F0b of this chip is not able to access the upper 256k. The F0c
revision is able to do this but there is no Aero in the world with this
chip revision.

I think it would be a good idea to add a link to the video part from my
page at this place and to delete the last part of the text in 1.3.11,
for it only will cause confusion.


[C] From: Christian.Rausch
Date: 1996?

according to compaq:
http://www.compaq.com/productinfo/no...videospecs.htm
the Aero uses a SMOS 8108 LCD controller from SMOS/Epson.

Description

The SPC8108FOC is a versatile VGA graphics controller capable of
driving liquid crystal displays and analog CRT monitors. The
controller integrates all LCD interface, sequencing and gray shading
logic into one small form factor 144 pin package. With the addition of
an industry standard '477 type RAMDAC, the SPC8108FOC will also drive
a VGA fixed frequency or multifrequency monitor.

The target products for this device are price and power sensitive 80 x
86 microprocessor based subnotebooks or other specialized LCD systems
where a high quality 16 or 64 gray shade VGA image on a 320 x 200 to
640 x 480 LCD panel display are the major design criteria.

I do not know if this really is the controller inside the Aero, since
I haven't opened my Aero 4/25 yet (has anybody else looked at the LCD
controller's label ? Please, tell us what's written on it! Has
anybody seen the above mentioned '477 RAMDAC?).

The product brief above tells that the SPC8108 is a MONOCHROME LCD
controller, but according to Compaq it's also used on color Aeros! So,
maybe SMOS built a special version for Compaq, or Compaq uses some
tricks to use the SPC8108 for the color LCD screen.

If the Aero's controller is the SPC8108 above, or at least similar to
the SPC8108, then we're not lucky, because it seems to be restricted
to 256k video RAM, which is not enough for 640x480x256(colors).
The other 256k are used, according to Compaq, for the 'pop-up feature when
coming out of stand-by' and seem to be inaccessible by the LCD
controller.

------------------------------

Subject: 1.3.12 Part Numbers

Data taken from CompaqDocument Number: 107315-025, Volume 1, January 1996
If two numbers are given, the first is an assembly part number, and the
second is a replacement part number. You probably want the second if you
are fixing your aero.

System Boards Assembly Spare Part System
4/25 System * 003209-002 197241-001 4/25
4/33C System * 003489-001 199222-001 4/33C

* Without PCMCIA eject rails.

Memory Boards Assembly Spare Part Option
4 MB Expansion 003296-002 190565-001 190532-001
8 MB Expansion 003308-001 190596-001 190597-001

Misc. Internal Assembly Spare Part System
Backlight Inv, mono 003215-001 190522-001 4/25
Display Panel, mono -- 190624-001 4/25
Backlight Inv, color 003492-001 199223-001 4/33C
Display Panel, color -- 199232-001 4/33C
Trackball Assembly -- 197286-001 4/25, 4/33C
Trackball, Matte* -- * --
Display Clutch 190638-001 185099-001 4/25
Display Clutch 190638-002 199336-001 4/33

* A Trackball (Matte), retainer ring, and/or trackball cleaning kit
may be obtained directly by U.S. customers by calling 1-800-841-2761.
In Canada, call 1-800-952-7689.

Misc. External Spare Part System
AC Adapter 190621-001 4/25, 4/33C
Automobile Adapter 190551-001 4/25, 4/33C
Convenience Base Unit 190568-001 4/25, 4/33C
Mobile Port Expander 197364-001 4/25, 4/33C
NiMH Extended Life Battery Pack 190626-001 4/25, 4/33C
NiMH Standard Battery Pack (w/spacer) 190697-001 4/25
Battery Spacer 197317-001 4/25, 4/33C
Trackball Cleaning Kit * 184115-001 All

* A Trackball (Matte), retainer ring, and/or trackball cleaning kit
may be obtained directly by U.S. customers by calling 1-800-841-2761.
In Canada, call 1-800-952-7689.

Hard Drives Drive Type Min ROM Spare Part System
84 MB 65 System 190660-001 4/25, 4/33C
170 MB 65 System 190661-001* 4/25
170 MB 65 System 199275-001 4/33C
250 MB 65 System 199233-001 4/25, 4/33C

* Currently restricted to 4/25 for FCC approval.

Modems Assembly Spare Part System
SpeedPaq 144/P PCMCIA 198112-001 194131-001 All
PCMCIA 14.4 Data + Fax * 149776-001 194097-001 All
PCMCIA 2400/9600 Data + Fax 149775-001 194098-001 All
SpeedPaq 192 PCMCIA Fax Modem 004234 187123-001 All
192 PCMCIA Fax Modem 004329 188512-001 All
288 PCMCIA Fax Modem 004467 189661-001 All

* Obsolete. Replaced by 187123-001. Must also order 187145-001 (modem
adapter kit).

External Diskette Spare Part System
PCMCIA External 1.44 MB Diskette 190563-001 4/25, 4/33C

Cables Used With Spare Part System
Display Cable Mono display 197238-001 4/25
Display Cable Color display 199258-001 4/33C
Communication Cable WinLink 197318-001 4/25, 4/33C
Trackball/Speaker Cable -- 197312-001 4/25, 4/33C

ROM Information Spare Part
ROMPaq 181088-001

Power Supply/Battery Spare Part
Power Supply 190521-001
Clock Battery 117099-001

and as mentioned in various posts to the list:

replacement battery cover and Memory upgrade door 197239-001 (Gallivan)

you can also take a look at Gebhard Markus's page of parts:
http://kakadu.rz.uni-passau.de/~gebh...arts/parts.htm

------------------------------

Subject: 1.4 User Opinions

[C] From: filipe.gama@ip.pt (Filipe Gama)
Subject: What to do with my Aero?
Date: 29 Oct 2001 16:03:40 -0500

"John C. Sanders" wrote:

> I have a Compaq Contura Aero with a screen problem or, to put it more
> precisely, a screen cable problem.

Hi John

You can easely fix the aero.
Mine had that problem some months ago and now is working ok

My 486/33 colour aero has a 1gb drive, 20 Mb of ram, a IR door and a
56K modem. Throught the IR door I can connect to a Siemens 25 GSM mobile
phone and access the web at the astonished speed of 9600 baud ;-))

Now I m testing a GPS device connected to the aero (an old Garmin 45 )
and so far so good. (It shows me where I am and with a map of Lisbon in
the screen - where I live, it is almost as good as a "In car Navigator")

Bye

Filipe Gama
Lisbon
Portugal

------------------------------

Subject: 1.4.1 Is the machine really that bad?

[C] Date: Wed, 26 May 1999 04:36:13 -0500

I finished painting my Aero last night, and I just now got
her back together.

http://www.cybertron.com/~timethy/pics/aero1.jpg 32 kb
http://www.cybertron.com/~timethy/pics/aero2.jpg 39 kb

She's flourescent pink green orange and yellow.

--Timmy

[C] Date: Wed, 7 Apr 1999 17:50:10 +0200
From: Stefan `Sec` Zehl
Subject: Ode to aero.

Hi,

I just got this fuzzy feeling about my aero, and thought i'd write it
down.

I like my aero very much. I bought it a couple of years ago, it was
mostly a coincidence. A freind of mine had one, and I immedeatly liked
its small size. 8M ram and a 386 seemd quite good back then. At first it
ran windows, and did that quite well. I never did big things with it,
just write a few text, the occasional small C program (using djgcc, if
anyone cares and playing a game every now an then. I had to lend it
to other people (including my mother) quite a bit, which wrote bigger
texts, while sitting outside in the green grass (albeit the display is
not very well readable in the sunlight). Then when I was converted to
'the Unix side' i didn't use it for about a year. Finally though, I
installed FreeBSD on it, and it got used a little more again. Taking
notes during lectures (this was where my 4M ram module got flakey and
triggered spontaneous reboots - i then bought a new 16M one)
And one or another small game. Actually I got X running (in the well
known modes) after some fiddling around, but am not very satisfied with
this. I prefer to use the console now. After some fiddling around I even
got it to spin its harddisk down on inactivity (unix does like to access
the disk every now and then). Then my Akkus (still the same from the
original buy) still last 2-3 hours, which is enough for the odd use
without an power outlet.

Now that I have an Palm III to take small notes, plan my schedule and
play a quick game, my aero didn't get unused, no. It merely got more
Äinteresting' tasks. So it served my leased line, and acted as a router
for more than a week, when no computer was at hand (including the time
to set up) where it proved to be as reliable as any other server.
Actually this happend more than once, since it's just convinient
I can act as an DNS server, irc, web and ftp-server on small meetings
where we connect severeal laptops together. Possibly even connect all of
them to the internet via a GSM modem, and NAT (although i didn't yet do
this). Also it is a reliable Backup device for my pilot when I'm away.

All in all, I must say, that the aero was an worthy companion all the
years, and definitly made life easier. I have to admit, that it's
lifetime is definitly coming to an and (compaq even started to recycle
the name %-). Of course I will not trash it now, as it still does good
things, but I don't think I will put much more time in upgrades or
fixing things. Nowerdays, i'd just like to be able to run X without big
problems, maybe even play an mp3 file while traveling around, and all in
all be a bit faster.

Ah, btw. I didn't upgrade my harddisk from it's original 150 (not sure
now) Megs, and didn't yet break my clutch (*knocking on wood*) but the
display cable starts getting loose, as it flickers quite abit every now
and then.

Fare wall all aeronauts, for this is truely a great computer.

CU,
Sec
--
Failure is not an option. It comes bundled with your Microsoft product.


[C] Yeah, it's so bad that I just bought my second one! :-) No, honestly, I
LOVE this thing. It's just that the couple of recent problem threads on this
list represent real problems.

Nobody posts: "Ooooo! I love the battery life" or "Wow - Check that great
keyboard layout" or "Only 4 pounds - How did I ever live with that old,
heavier, laptop" or "Man, was this a great price for such a nice system" or
"Isn't it great to have an integrated trackball instead of one of them
lame-brained dongle-pointer-dealies that are forever falling off or getting
caught on stuff or rubbing on the side of the chair you're sitting in?" See,
nobody complains when everything's coming their way. Relax - it's a GREAT
computer.

------------------------------

Subject: 1.4.2 Opinions on Aero features (The Quick FAQs)

[Q] How much battery life can I expect (main use word processing). How
long to recharge? Is there a separate power brick and recharger?

[A] Up to 4 hours maximum and 1 hour to recharge. You don't need a separate
recharger but you can buy one if you wish to recharge two batteries at once.

[A] I get two to three hours runtime on my 4/33 color machine using
Windows. Recharge time is about 1.5 hours; but that's also using the
"extended" battery which ships with the color Aeros. Of course, recharge
time is longer if you're using the machine; but you can use it while the
battery is recharging. The AC adapter is not your usual "wall-wart" brick.
It's a block about 4.5" x 2.25" x 1.2" with an 18" cable to the plug which
goes into the Aero. The other end has a socket for the line cord that
plugs into the wall. This unit serves as both the battery charger and the
AC adapter. Extras are available for $29 or so; I bought a second one so I
can have one at work and one at home. Note that the battery must be
recharged while within the Aero. The optional Convenience Base has a
spot for recharging a second battery; without this you'd have to put a
spare battery into the Aero to recharge it.

[Q] What do you think about the ergonomic factors (e.g., screen size,
keyboard layout, trackball, etc?)

[A] Keyboard is great and silent. Screen size 8" is more than enough for
640x480 resolution screen. Think about it: on desktops people are using a
15" screen with 1024x780.

[A] I like them. Screen size is just fine for me. The DOS text-mode font
seems fine; better than some laptops I've seen. I like the keyboard more
than any other subnote I've used, and the trackball is fine. However,
these are all very subjective things and what works for me may not work
for you.

------------------------------

Subject: 1.5 Who's using an Aero

[C] Date: Sat, 8 Sep 2001 12:07:18 +1200 (NZST)
From: Donald Gordon
Subject: Aero sighting (for section 1.5 of the FAQ)

I just noticed the "Who's using an Aero" section of the Aero FAQ and
thought I would add my NZ$0.02:

There was an ad on NZ television (some time ago now) for the online yellow
pages; it featured what looked like a copy of the yellow pages with a
laptop inside that looked suspiciously like an Aero. There was a nice
closeup of the purple powerbutton too.

Cheers
don

[C] From: "Daniel Gentleman (ns)"
Date: Fri, 21 Nov 1997 16:30:53 -0600

There is a kind of computer cart sold at Wal-Mart that has a Contura
Aero sitting on it on the little picture of it on the box.

[C] Date: Thu, 17 Apr 1997 21:45:15 -0600
Reply-To: adavie
Subject: Media appearances of Aero

I noticed that one of the characters of Fox's "Living Single" show (the
character played by Queen Latifah) uses an Aero. I think this is my
first television sighting (other than the Aero commercials) of our
little friend, but i don't watch much t.v. outside of the Simpsons...

Has the Aero appeared in any movies or other t.v. shows?

[C] From: mccann
Date: Fri, 18 Apr 1997 09:08:05 -0400

It's hardly Hollywood, but I have noticed that the facilities engineers
use Aeros in the modern office building where I work. It looks like they
plug them into something to take environmental readings (office air
quality, humidity, temperature).

------------------------------

Subject: 2 Hardware

------------------------------

Subject: 2.1 Aero

The aero has an ISA bus.

[C] From: JLSmith42
Date: Thu, 1 Oct 1998 23:32:40 EDT
Subject: Beverage Spill Repair (was: seeking innards of aero)

> I caffeinated my aero with a cup of coffee and it did a nice ZZZZZZ!!!
> and stopped functioning. I'm believe I blew out the power supply and the
> hard drive and the pcmcia network card in the slot. If I replace the
> motherboard and the hard drive, will the machine function again?
> i.e. Do you think I irreparably damaged the display as well?

i had an experience similar to this with coca-cola
instead of coffee. it spilled all over the inside; i ended up taking the
machine apart for draining, cleaning, and drying. i'm still using it, and
have noticed no probelms whatsoever from the incident. perhaps i was just
lucky!!

try testing your suspect parts ( if you have that capability ) just to be
sure they are dead. mount your HD in another computer to see if it
accepts power. ( the stock HD seems to be well sealed from external
influence. but i suppose that all HD's are ) same with your network
card. Unless your display took a direct hit, it should probably be fine.

good luck. just my 2 bits -- jls

Leo Smith

[C] Date: Fri, 02 May 1997 20:59:32 +0200
From: Arnaud Hubert
Subject: Aero's serial number

Hi fellow Aeronauts,
I finally got back my Aero 10 days after taking it to maintenance for
having broken of the pins of the PCMCIA connector (I inserted the PCMCIA
SCSI card upside down, God I'm stupid).
The guy there explained to me what the serial number means:

Mine is 7435HMR40135:
7 is the factory unit.
4 is the year ('94).
35 is the week of manufacturing (the 35th of 94).
The rest is meaningless.

------------------------------

Subject: 2.1.1 CPU

Intel inside!

------------------------------

Subject: 2.1.1.1 Is it upgradeable?

From: Gordy Gale
Date: Mon, 07 Dec 1998 15:00:21 -0800

>>We can't even buy the parts necessary to perform this upgrade and even
>>if we could it has been deemed IMPOSSIBLE.
>>
>>Sincerely,
>>Ryan Mitchell
>>Purchasing Manager
>>Corporate Upgrades, Inc.

[message edited slightly for brevity]


[C] Date: Mon, 5 Oct 1998 09:44:21 -0700 (PDT)
To: Quinton Jones Jr
From: "Douglas J. Hirsch, Maximum Upgrades"

RE: AMD DX5-133 (a.k.a. AMD5x86P75) running at 133MHz

This upgrade chip works with most Intel 486/33 chips, but there are a few
exceptions. Some SX/33 chips were made in a 196 pin package that is not
compatable with the 208 pin AMD upgrade (Gateway Handbook and Compaq Aero
use these chips).

Douglas Hirsch
Internet Support
Maximum Upgrades

web: http://www.maxup.com

------------------------------

Subject: 2.1.1.2 Is it FPU upgradeable?

[C] I am using Q386 3.65, a math accelerator and coprocessor emulator for
386SX and higher machines. (Copyright Quickware) It works nice. (e.g. with
Mathematica) You should be able to find it on any SIMTEL mirror in the
directory mathcopr. The name of the newest version seems to be
q87_371.zip. I do not think that there is any possibility to plug in a
real coprocessor.

[C] Date: Fri, 17 Jul 1998 09:34:20 -0600 (MDT)
From: bgeer

I am using a fpu emulator for DOS/Win3/Win95 which can be found at:

http://www.delorie.com/djgpp
(see below for details)

DJGPP is a port of the Gnu toolset to M$ OS. It is free. It includes
gcc & g++ compilers, ar, make, gdb debugger, bash, grep, less (more,
only different:-), diff, df, du, & all the vastly more useful tools us
Unix'ophiles have come to know & love. Specifically for DOS/MSWin it
includes cwsdpmi (DPMI services) & go32 which enables all programs
compiled w/ gcc & g++ to execute in 32-bit mode on DOS, Win3, Win95,
WinNT.

I use this toolset on my Aero & have absolutely no problems with it.
My most notable project is developing access functions to drill into
Clipper databases for improved data query. With very very few
#ifdef's the exact same code compiles & runs on DOS/MSWin & Linux.

I've found that my programs run 5 to 10 times faster on Win95 in a
bash window than in a DOS prompt window.

> How about giving us a clue as to where to look on that site?
> Or maybe even, (dare I ask?) a filename or a closer URL?? :^)

Oh, where's your sense of adventure?!?!?

[Just kidding...]

Ok:
djdev201.zip contains bin/emu387.dxe & bin/go32-v2.exe
djlsr201.zip contains [sources]
csdpmi3b.zip contains bin/cwsdpmi.exe

Newer versions may be available - I downloaded this over a year ago!

Yes, there's lots of stuff there...but it adds up to a mere 63Mbytes
of stuff if you grab everything including sources & all of emacs.
Last time I installed a Borland or Microsoft C++ compiler it added up
to more disk space & didn't provide cross-platform compatibility.

------------------------------

Subject: 2.1.2 Memory (RAM)

------------------------------

Subject: 2.1.2.1 How do you upgrade?

Both the online help and the printed docs tell you how to do it. The Aero
can be expanded to 8, 12, or 20 meg of RAM. Going to 20 meg requires a 16
meg module, Compaq doesn't sell one. In any case, third party memory seems
to be a lot cheaper than Compaq memory, and I've seen nothing in the docs
which claims that using 3rd party memory affects the warranty in any way.
Note that there's only space for one memory module. If you buy a 4M module
(for 8M total), and later want to go to 12 or 20 meg, you must replace the
4M module.

[C] Date: Thu, 01 May 1997 10:55:04 -0800
From: "Gerry M."
Subject: Re: Memory port cover

The memory slot cover does not usually break!!! It looks like it's going to
when you try to pry it with a screw driver but it shouldn't. Take your time
and do it slowly. Its supposed to be make from very flexible plastic at
least thats what the Compaq rep told me. I managed to open the slot by
using a wide flat head screw driver and a coin. You twist the screw driver
slowly assisted by the coin. Refer to the diagram below...

-----------------
| |
| |
Screw Driver---> || <== |
here | |
| |
--------\/-------

Coin Here

[C] Date: Sat, 10 Jul 1999 11:51:55 -0700
From: Gordy Gale
Subject: Re: Upgrade to Win95 (Addendum)

Philip,
According to the 3 Compaq Telephone tech guys I spoke with, the System
ROMPAQs that are available, SP1487 (old), SP1992 (latest), are COMPLETE
system flash ROMS. They said that there was no other way to do it. No
such thing as a partial ROM flash, as you are essentially reprogramming
the BIOS, just like on a desktop motherboard. Just to be sure, I asked
the specific question, "Should I run SP1487 first and then run SP1992?"
The tech said "NO, SP1992 is all you need to run as it is the latest
version".

[C] From: Philip Wilk
Date: Thu, 5 Sep 1996 16:24:04 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: sp1992 warning

See note above. The following is probably incorrect, it must have been due
to something else.

I almost had a cardiac arrest last night. I purchased my 16Mb memory module
and installed it but my aero only recognized 16Mb. So I proceeded to install
sp1992 not noticing that it was a *patch* for sp1487. I was running a 6/94
bios (hey, if its not broke don't fix it). Sp1992 got rather confused,
attempted to install itself and then crashed. When I rebooted, it kept on
getting memory configuration errors. *Moment of panic*. My aero will not
start up. I kept on choosing the save-config option and after a couple times
through of recognizing/not recognizing the 20Mb of memory; it finally
booted. I quickly installed the full ROM upgrade sp1487 and since then have
not had any problems. *whew*

------------------------------

Subject: 2.1.2.3 How much are memory upgrades?

[C] Date: Mon, 26 May 1997 12:53:23 -0700 (PDT)
From: Elizabeth Yip

I upgraded the memory to 20M ($119 at Components Direct (888)426-6799,
Sales Rep.: Nicholas).

[C] Date: Thu, 27 Feb 1997 09:32:46 -0800
From: "Randy, Evelyn & Mark"

I just ordered a 16M memory module from Impediment Incorporated, 541
Plain St., Marshfiedl, MA 02050-2713. Kathleen Leu at
kathy@impediment.com is the person that handles portable memory sales.
She quoted $75 for an 8M module (PN: KTC-AERO8) and $135 for a 16M
module (PN: KTC-AERO16). S&H came to $10.

There's another outfit in El Segundo, CA called En Pointe Tech. Call
Gentry Richardson ar (310) 725-5248 for ordering. Their quotes were as
follows: 4M $65, 8M $85, 16M $135.

Another source is Ariston Technologies - (714) 846-7676, 16892 Bolsa
Chica Street, Suite 204, Huntington Beach, California. Their quotes: 4M
$52, 8M $84, 16M $149.

Memory Plus, Inc.46 East Main Street Westboro, MA 01581 TO ORDER, CALL:
(800)388-7587 or (508)366-2240 FAX: (508)366-7344 Internet Address:
parts@memoryplus.com. Their latest quotes: $60, $90, and $169 resp.

McGlen Micro, Inc. 17748 Skypark Circle Suite 252 Irvine, CA 92614, USA
Sales, Customer Support: (714)851-8078 (800)899-8849 Fax: (714)851-0251
Their quotes: $52, $84, and $149

Found these folks by search engine on computer memory and calling.
There's lots more available.
Evelyn

[C] From: <mccann
Date: Thu, 19 Sep 1996 17:49:51 -0400

FYI, I just bought a 16mb RAM module over the phone from
Southland Micro <http://www.southlandmicro.com/>.

The price was $128 plus $9.50 shipping (it's to be delivered
Monday, so I can't speak to quality; others on this list say
they work, though). Not bad, considering Southland was
quoting $150 last week.

Southland's number is 1-800-255-4200, and I spoke to Kay
(who handles new accounts).

The 16mb RAM part number is: SMC 16MB-AERO. They also sell
8mb and 4mb, I think.

Best,
Andy

[C] From ("Sylvain Soulieres"), on 8/19/96
For those of you who are looking for a cheap 16 MB RAM upgrade module for
their Compaq Aero, I just ordered one from "Southland Micro Systems". I
should receive it by the end of the week... At that time, I will post a
final status on the module...

Note that their WEB site specified a price of U$ 215 for the module (P/N
"SMC 16MB-AERO"), but I just talked to Nadia from sales (phone extension
160), and their current price is U$ 150 + shipping + insurance charges !!!

Here are the coordinates :

Vendor : Southland Micro Systems
Location : Irvine, California 92618
Web site : www.southlandmicro.com
Phone : (800) 255-4200 or (714) 380-1958

You should also note that they offer an unconditionnal lifetime warranty on
their modules.

[C] Sylvain had no problem with his memory from Southland, so I went and
bought me 16 Mb for the same price. Works great! - Philip Wilk

[C] From: <Paynecd
Date: Sat, 13 Jul 1996 22:43:06 -0400

If anyone is looking for 16MB memory upgrades for their Aero, WorldWide
Memory is selling a Transcend version for $205. I installed it and it works
fine. Comes with a lifetime warranty. Phone number is 800-666-6117. They
advertise in the back of Computer Shopper.

------------------------------

Subject: 2.1.3 How to disassemble the Aero

BE CAREFUL, boys and girls. If you get frustrated, STOP! Go do something else
for a while and then come back to it. One little slip-up will result in very
costly repair bills. Warning aside, there is nothing magical inside consumer
electronics. Everything is very modular and replacible if you can find the
part. Have fun, and don't break anything. - Philip

------------------------------

Subject: 2.1.3.1 The tale of a journey inside

Note: this was the first story ever on an Aero disassembly. We now know
better and will not disassemble that one screw in the back that holds the
Aero display together.

[ this one is a bit wordy; but I felt it should go out to everyone on the
list rather than languish on an ftp site -- lrj ]

Just for the record, this was all in a dream. It is not true. I would
never do something as silly as opening up my Aero 4/33c, because that
would void the warranty or let the smoke out or something. Would I do
that? Of course not! cough If anyone were to consider opening up their
machine, remember that if you break anything it's YOUR fault. This is NOT
a trivial thing like opening up a desktop's case. If you're not (a)
willing to accept the consequences of something breaking and (b) confident
in your ability, then STOP HERE. Do not continue.

AT ALL TIMES REMEMBER TO GO SLOW. IF SOMETHING ISN'T WORKING OUT, RELAX;
EXAMINE IT AND THINK ABOUT HOW IT OUGHT TO GO. IT'S ALWAYS BETTER TO TAKE
YOUR TIME THAN TO BREAK SOMETHING.

As a first step, shut down windows and turn off the power. I mean the
actual Fn+StandbyButton power-off sequence. Remove the battery. Find a
nice flat table and put something soft on it; make sure you follow proper
electrostatic discharge procedures. I reccommend a wrist-strap.

Remove all the screws from the bottom of the case, and the two from the
back of the right-hand side. (the two on the right-side back anchor that
side of the display, so be ready for it to become a little floppy THERE
ARE NO HIDDEN SCREWS. Happily, Compaq did not hide any under stickers or
anything. I used a flat-blade screwdriver, but the appropriate Torx driver
would be best.

Now you have to remove the plastic from the top; the stuff surrounding
the keyboard. It's a snap-down setup, and to disengage the clips you have
to push in on the top half while sorta pulling out on the bottom, while
lifting the top. Yah, one of those three-hand jobs.

ALSO: the speaker is one of those 3/4" piezo thingies that lives in front
of the trackball. Make sure it doesn't get smooshed or jammed into
something when you're popping the case.

There's one clip right next to where the battery cover goes, on the front
side of the machine. It's a good one to examine and get a feel for how it
works. The next one is in the middle of the front, right where the display
locks down.

The nasty one is on the right side between the back and the trackball
buttons. I finally got it by having the display up at 90 degrees, with the
whole machine sitting on it's left side. I inserted the corner of a credit
card between the top/bottom case halves from the back to put lifting
pressure on the clip as I pressed/pulled/etc. BE GENTLE HERE THOUGH,
there's definite breakage potential if you just force it.

Next, there are a set a small tabs which hold the back of the top down.
You can see the line running under the display. Just kind of gently lift,
wiggle, lever, etc. 'til they pop out.

Now for the real fun; seperating the "top" from the display. I haven't
figured a good way to do it; as you lift the top over the hinges, it hits
the bottom of the display. Carefully applied flexing and bending (never
too much) was the only way I got the thing off of there. Just be careful
and look it over a bit.

At this point, your machine should still work. I figured I'd try mine
out, so I plugged in the AC adapter and powered it up. I of course
powered it down and unplugged it before continueing.

Next thing is to remove the keyboard. You'll find one screw in the middle
below the spacebar and three smaller ones across the top. That's it.
Remove 'em, tip the back of the keybd up and push backwards 'til it
disengages from the metal tab in the bottom right (closest to you). Watch
the two ribbon cables under it.

To disengage the cables, lay the keybd upside down over the battery
compartment. You'll see a couple slider things on the two cable slots on
the motherboard. Pull the sliders towards you; now the cables will come
out easily and you can set the keybd aside.

In order to remove the hard disk, you must first pull out the flat cable
running across the drive, which goes to the trackball and buttons. Small
needlenose pliers are good for this if you're very gentle and go slowly.

One the cable's off, slide the hard disk to the right until it disengages
from the connector. Tilt the back upwards 'til it clears the motherboard
and lift it out. Voila! You could take the "carrier" off the existing
drive and put it on another 2.5" drive if you wished.

Reassembling the machine is pretty much the reverse of what I've
described. When reinstalling the hard drive, make sure that one "tab" on
the carrier lines up with the screwhole so it'll get locked down when you
put the screws back in. When you put the keyboard back on, make sure to
engage that metal tab at the bottom-right.

I would suggest checking the machine out before putting the plastic lid
back on; after the keybd's back on, plug it in/turn it on and make sure
everything still works. Then turn it of, put the top back on, and button
it up.

In summary, it looks like the hard drive is user-replaceable if you have
the confidence and ability to go in there and do it. It is probably not
something which Joe Consumer should try. I've broken a lot of plastic tabs
over the years as I learned how to finesse these things.

Put it this way; when it comes time to put in a 400-500M disk sometime
next year, I will be talking to the local service shop (which sells
Compaq) to see how much it'd cost to have them do the work. I am not sure
that I won't break a plastic tab or something next time.

Remember, this is all a dream. Nothing here is true. cough

------------------------------

Subject: 2.1.4 Hard Drive

------------------------------

Subject: 2.1.4.1 Partitions

for information on recreating the diagnostics partition, see the section
of the FAQ that deals with the diagnostics softpack from COMPAQ.

[Q] Does anyone have any information on the little (2mb) partition which the
Aero boots from if you hold down the 'F10' key to run setup during boot? Is
there a FAT filesystem hidden there somewhere?

[A] The machine actually comes with two DOS partitions: the main one that you
see, and a tiny (2M) one which runs the setup utilities. You almost certainly
want to keep the latter around forever. As for the main DOS partition, it
contains lots of otherwise unavailable documentation about how your machine
works, and some setup utilities that do things that the setup partition can't
do.

In particular, the utility to control whether the PCMCIA slot remains powered
during suspend seems only to be available in Windows, and at least a few of us
configured our machine to leave power on in the slot and are now regretting
that choice (because it uses up power during suspend).

[A] it has DOS 6.2 on it, and it has
config.sys/autoexec.bat files that run the setup program for the aero. You
install it by using the setup program, which you can transfer onto a 1.44MB
disk if you have the PCMCIA floppy drive. That's what I've done, seeing as I
don't run DOS or Windows but would like to be able to setup my machine without
a 2MB partition sitting on my drive doing nothing 99.99% of the time ...

------------------------------

Subject: 2.1.4.2 Noisy 84Mb hard drives

[Q] My 4/25's 84mb hard drive is very noisy when it reads and writes, but works
just fine. A friend of mine has a 4/25 with the 170mb drive, and it seems to
work like a whisper. Does anyone know if this is just a characteristic of the
84mb drive?

[A] Unfortunately yes. I claimed Compaq for that and they replaced my HD to
another 84MB and the new one was even worse.

------------------------------

Subject: 2.1.4.3 Upgrading the hard drive

[C] date: 2001
from: Rick

First let me say that there is a lot more that I don't know about the Aero than
what I do. I have picked up a large number of these units and have
five of the 4/25 and two of the 4/33 working at this point. All of these units
have accepted the Toshiba MK1926FCV 814MB hard drives without partitioning.

[C] from Ingo Ralf Blum
date: March 2001

I'm not Javier, however I had a UDMA-66 harddisk running well. The Aero doesn't
support UDMA, but the hard disks are compatible with earlyer standards, and so
they operate at PIO mode, which the Aero supports. Make sure you have the Compaq
setup disk available to tell the Aero the new harddisk size. The size of mine
was not automatically detected and I had to manually set the
cylinder/tracks/head values by hand. Have them at your hands. In some cases they
are printed on the harddisk, but sometimes you'll have to look at the
appropriate internet pages of your harddisk vendor.

Regards Ingo

[C] from Ingo Ralf Blum
date: March 2001

> What size (gigas) is your hard drive?

It's 12 MB. When you ask, if the Aero can handle such drives, that depends on
which operating system you are using.
Usually there are the following dependencies.

Windows 95 -> BIOS -> harddisk
Linux -> harddisk

So you see Linux directly accesses the hraddrive and so supports all current
hard disk sizes. Windows 95 relies on the BIOS, and the Aero BIOS supports only
8 GB. This doesnÄt mean, that you can't use larger disk on Windows 95, but
Windows only sees the lower part
of the drive.

Lets assume a 12 GB drive.

################++++++++

where each character is 512 KB. The # specifies the part which win 95 can see,
the rest is only accessable by other os which use direct acces, e.g. Linux.
So you can partition as follows.

wwllllllllllllllllllllll

where Windows has a partition in a lower part and linux in the upper. Contary
this doesn't work:

wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwllll.

> What do you mean with earlier standars?

There are different operation modes of harddrives, PIO (programmed input
output), where the processor transfers the data, and DMA (direct memory access),
where the disk controller transfers the data (The terminology may not be 100 %
correct). These operation modes were introduced in the following order:

PIO 1
PIO 2
PIO 3
PIO 4
.... perhaps the thats not fully correct
UDMA 33
UDMA 66
UDMA 100

The current drives are usually UDMA 66 or 100, mine is UDAM 66

If a controller operates only e.g. on PIO2 and you have a UDAM 100 drive, both
parties agree to the largest common protocol, which results in a PIO 2
operation. I think (however I do not know for sure) that all the older PIO modes
are also covered by the newest UDAM standards, so every drive should work.

> Does this mean that aero can manage an actually 6 gigas hard drive?

6 GB is no problem. As you can see 6 GB is well below 8GB so you can use it with
no restriction both in Windows 95 and Linux.

> And at last, you refer to a rompaq to set up the new disk, no?

Yes and no, I referred to a setup disk for the Aero. I can't remeber the fixpack
number, but it is named "Compaq Setup & Diagnostics". I is the same software as
usually installed on the harddisk, which you can execute by pressing DEL when
booting (I think it was DEL, but I have removed it, so that's a guess), but when
you install a new harddisk, there is usually nothing installed.

> (Somebody talked about don't touch the parameters and let the aero define them
by itsel, also if they're wrong, so the hard drive will work fine ?

That depends. Last month I replaced the 12 GB drive in the Aero with the old 170
MB, because I had to capture some video on my desktop and needed a drive. After
rebooting the Aero displayed "Bad system disk, press F1". This was, because the
hard disk layout was NOT automatically detected, and NO it was not an empty
clock-bios-backup-battery. So what I had to do was to go to Compaq's homepage,
find the disk layout (heads, cylinders, tracks), boot the Aero from floppy with
the setup disk and enter the values.

So be sure to have the disk layout of your current and old drive at your hands,
as well as a setup disk.

Another problem you should be aware of (Its not a really problem, howver it can
be annoying)

ATA drives don't distinguish heads, cylinders and tracks. They number the blocks
on the disk straightforward. However the BIOS does not and needs to map the CHT
values to block numbers. Unfortunately there are different mapping modes called
"NORMAL" and "LBA". If you have a desktop computer you can see these word
domwhere in your BIOS setup, where you can change them.

Here is the pitfall. When you format a drive in LBA mode, you can't read it in
NORMAL mode. Of course the data is still on the disk, but the block numbers map
to different positions, and so you'll likely get a "no system disk" error, when
booting. So make sure to always use the same mode. (In fact the mode is not the
problem, but the layout. Changing from LBA to NORMAL or the other way round
simply changes
the CHS values, so e.g. in one you have 8 sectors, 8 cylinders and 8 heads, and
in the other you have 2 cylinders, 2 heads and 128 sectors.
Both drives have the same size, but not the same layout.

If you format and install on your desktop and then put the drive into the Aero,
make sure you enter the values from your desktio into the Aero setup, if the
Aero doesn't detect the drive.

Formatting large drives > 8GB:

DOS fdisk (=Windows fdisk) relies on the BIOS to format drives, so you can't
format such drives on the Aero using the BIOS. Either install Linux first (or
use a Linux install disk, where a Linux partitioning program is on) or format
the disk in your desktop (which usually has a newer BIOS which supports larger
disks than 8 GB). Since noth methods don't know your Aero BIOS setting you'll
have to write down the CHS settings for your drive, for the case you have to
enter them into the Aero BIOS.

Nothing is more annoying than to have your computer in pieces and then find,
that you need some data which is on your pc's harddisk or in the internet.

[C] from Edgard ONO
date: March 2001

Yeh! I've just installed a Fujitsu MHD2032AT disk (3.2 gigas) in the litle
Aero! now it is a big boy!
Somebody told that Fujitsu discs were a little bit problematic to fit in the
aero because of the drills of the cady. He was right! but I had already
ordered de disk But it wasn't a mission impossible! I just used car
painter tape (Sorry for the literal translation), to make the "paper
Spacers" that evite the disk from moving off its place.
Thanks everybody for the advices about bios, and setup floppys (Uf!). The
setup program just detected the disk, size, cylinders... and if I tried to
modify them, they reset to 0 (Oh my God what a fright!). So I reset and
didn't touch the parameters (That were right by themselves), and it worked.
After I used the W95 instalation disk to format the drive. I must say I've
just left 500 megs to windoze, and the rest for LINUX (I said the AERO is
now a big boy, no?
What a dream! Is a little dificult to know when it writes (Because it is
less sonour than the original quantum daytona). It wakes up faster. Tomorrow
I'll install de OS, so one day of thees I'll measure the performance of the
drive, ok?
Bye Aeronauts of XXI Century!




[C] Date: Dec 23, 1998

Modern harddrives are much faster that the factory installed 84mb and
170mb drives that were shipped with the aero. They are also much more
reliable, hours-of-operation-wise. Two good reasons to upgrade, in
addition to the obviuos gain in storage space. The increase in disk
access time can make the aero run much faster.

If you are installing a large harddrive, you will also want to upgrade
the system ROM to SP1992 so that the Aero can recognize the larger
drives. If you do not, you will have to use some interleaving software to
access the larger harddrive.

[C] Date: Fri, 25 Jun 1999 16:22:42 -0400 (EDT)
From: bfeitell
Subject: Re: Upgrade HD without floppy

It can be done. The suspend/maintenance partition may be a problem and
since you don't have a floppy that will be necessary. You can install an
operating system byu using a 2.5 -> 3.5 adapter and set up the drive in a
desktop computer. The carriers are listed in the aero faq and also are
now available from www.computersurplusoutlet.com.

[Q]From: DOUGLAS KOCHER
Subject: fdisk and Partition Magic only see the first 500 MB or so.

Aeronauts--Help, please, with this one. Many of you have reported installing
drives of various manufacturers greater than 540 MB, even > 1G, _without_
having to resort to Disk Mangler to overcome that barrier.

I had a Toshiba MK 1924FCV 540 MB that I needed to replace as it was full.
This is a _dog_ of a drive, so I was eager to do so.

I have it replaced with a Maxtor MobileMax 1.35G drive, but guess what?
Even with the latest Compaq bios, and even though the bios sees all 1.35G,
both fdisk and Partition Magic only see the first 500 MB or so.

What gives? BTW, the diagnostic partition installed perfectly. The drive,
based on its interactions with the diag. partition, is much quicker and
quieter than the Toshiba it replaced.

[A] From: John David Steffes
Subject: RE: fdisk and Partition Magic only see the first 500 MB or so.
Date: Mon, 17 Feb 1997 12:23:39 -0500

First wipe all fdisk stuff off. NO Diag Partition no MSDOS/windows Partition
NOTHING!. Then Boot with first Diag disk in. and set the drive up under the
setup there is a disk icon under that there is advanced under that there is
another tab which specifies which operating system. Click if DOS/WINDOWS
click Other. Then exit and let the machine reboot. Then go back and reset
the tab to DOS/WINDOWS this feature is what turn on LBA translation which is
what ONTRACK Overlay manager does. I also want you to know you must be on the
latest and greatest BIOS and DIAG utilities other wise things may not work.

JDS

PS Just a suggestion I am not liable for anything that may go wrong from
following these directions.



-- Ed. Note: For those of you who wonder why you can not get much more than
500 Mb of HD on your Aero: The BIOS when running DOS or windows 3.x can
only recognize 1024 cylinders. This usually works out to about 502 or 512 Mb
depending on the rest of the hard drive parameters. You can get around this
by using either a special driver or a utility. If your hard drive needs this,
then one then contact the distributor or you can use the previously described
method for gaining full access. It is interesting to note that LINUX is not
limited in this way. - Philip

-- Ed. Note: The harddrive can be no thicker than 12.7 mm. - Philip

[A] I would like to share my success in swapping out the original 170 MB disk
for a 353 MB disk in my 4/33C. I just carefully took the Aero apart (take care
with the clip on the right side), pulled the Seagate ST9190AG drive from its
carrier, put in the new one, and put it all back together (and fixed a slightly
erratic graphics cable along the way). I was mighty impressed with the
technology in there.

Now for the setup. I had made a floppy version of the Setup and Diags
partitions ahead of time and proceeded to use these to set up the
cylinders/heads/sectors and run a full diags sweep of the disk. I made three
partitions on the new drive -- 50M for DOS, 30 MB for shared swap and the
remaining 273 MB for Linux. I didn't make the diags partition; I'll just use
the floppies again if I ever need something from the there again some day.

So, it can be done. I was a little hesitant at first after calling Laptop
Solutions in Houston because they tried to tell me the BIOS wouldn't support
different sized drives without their proprietary changes. Well, maybe there are
cases where their changes are needed but I've not found them yet.

The drive is a Toshiba 1824FCV (682 cyl, 16 heads, 63 sectors); I just
reprogrammed the drive type 65 entries with these values. Only down side is
that it seems to spin up a bit slower than the old drive. But I'm convinced the
battery life is better, at least a little. The noise is distinctly different
too; maybe a little lower pitched but still as loud.

Warranty? Well, yes, compaq tech support told me what I did voids the
warranty.He said my only option, if I need service, is to put back the old
drive and tryto convince them the problem is not related to the change. I'm not
worried about it but it might be a factor for some.

[A] I can second Elwood's story. I have had the Toshiba disk in my Aero for
about 2 weeks now. Its great to have 330 MB of disk. Also, I think Elwood is
correct, in that the battery lasts longer with the Toshiba disk. Seems to draw
less power.

The difficulties I had in doing the exchange were much the same as Elwood
related. Namely the clip on the right hand side next to the mouse buttons. In
addition, I could not get the cable unplugged that feeds the trackball, mouse
buttons and speaker. So, it was easy enough to unscrew the track ball assembly.
The speaker, buttons and trackball could then be lifted out of the way while
still plugged in. Also, Ali, your instructions to me on not removing the lower
screw supporting the screen were correct. It is not necessary and helps keep
the assembly stable while trying to pry the cover off!

The Toshiba drive cost about $400 with tax. I bought it from Micro Sense in San
Diego, CA. (Micro Sense's Phone number is 1-800-544-4252.) They were very
helpful in telling me that the drive would work in the Aero without any BIOS
mods. They also told me I could put in a bigger capacity drive, but I would
need some BIOS mods to do that.

[Q] After saving the automatically recognized drive parameters, how did you get
FDISK to run on the PCMCIA FDD? I thought the PCMCIA drive needed drivers
loaded before it was recognized or is that something that's built into the BIOS
already?

[A] Yes. The FDD runs out of the BIOS. You can boot from it with nothing on the
hard disk. This assumes you have a current COMPAQ BIOS too. Very old ones did
not support the FDD correctly.

A word of warning. When I took apart the case it took me 2 1/2 hours. I was
very careful. I stopped twice during the process because of frustration.
However, once the top of the machine is off, then removing the old disk is not
a big deal. You move the drive holder from one driver to the other. Push the
new drive into place on the connector.

You can then power up the machine and test it to make sure the disk works.
(Have a boot floppy with FDISK.) If you have done it correctly, you will see
lots of disk space. Putting the cover on only took 10 minutes. The hard part is
prying the cover over the screen support rods. Also, do NOT remove the bottom
screw as seen from the back of the Aero which supports the screen. The screen
is really loose if you do this and as Ali told me, you can tear the flexible
cable that goes to the screen!

As has been said before, this is not for the faint of heart. If you take your
time, walk away from it if you get frustrated, and do not force anything very
hard you should be OK. The most difficult part is the clip near the mouse
buttons. If you do not have the original case disassembly instructions, I can
resend them.

[Q] Which brand(s) and model(s) can replace the 84Mb and 170Mb drive in the
Aero 4/25...anyone know if the drives are higher than the drives sitting in the
4/33c or is the height difference merely the colour screen as opposed to the
mono screen?

[A] Correct. The height difference is in the screen and not in the base. The
Toshiba MK1824FCV was an exact fit at 12.5mm. The Toshiba has 335MB on it. It
should also work in the 4/33c. The drive in the color model is the same size as
in mono. They're both 2,5" slim IDEs.

[C] From: "Steve Sims"
Date: Mon, 29 Jul 1996 06:44:30 -0400

> From: Erik A Hansen
>
> Anyone deal with Drive Outlet Center?
> They have Toshiba notebook drives:
> 540MB TOHDDNB540 $199
> 810MB TOHDDNB810 $239

I've dealt with them on some SCSI stuff. They we somebody I'd buy again
from.

------------------------------

Subject: 2.1.4.4 Hard Drive Installation

------------------------------

Subject: 2.1.4.4.1 Prequel to the step-by-step tutorial

[C] Date: Sun, 15 Nov 1998 13:10:21 -0800
From: Jon Ong

Took me about an hour to install the Toshiba MK2104MAV HDD.
I think a better job could have been done explaining where the top
keyboard tabs are, rather than using credit card to hold case apart I
recommend using 3 x 5 card and just tearing paper out as you press tabs
back one by one. Tabs are at the 4 lateral corners, one directly below
space bar in front, and one behind each side of the screen. Also, in
the step where screws are removed from the case, we're asked to remove a
5th screw in the R. bottom case...this is actually the R. upper case if
you want to lift keyboard cover off.

[C] Date: Sun, 16 Mar 1997 19:09:12 -0600 (CST)
From: DOUGLAS KOCHER
Subject: Installing MobileMax: A How-To

It looks like a number of aeronauts are about to embark on installing a Maxtor
MobileMax 1.3G drive in their Aeros. I have had one in mine for about two
months; here are my installation tips:

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

DISCLAIMER: I'm not responsible for the consequences of your following these
suggestions. They worked for me, but I have changed out many a notebook
hard drive. If you think what follows is beyond your skill level, get someone
to do it for you. And regardless, ANY disassembly of the Aero presents even
an experienced person many opportunities to ruin the computer inadvertently.
In addition, the following procedure will surely void any warranty you have
on your Aero.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++


Make sure you ground yourself when dismantling the Aero, and especially when
touching the hard drive. Wear a wrist strap that is grounded, or repeatedly
touch a well-grounded object during dismantling and reassembly.


1. Make sure you have the latest ROM upgrade installed on your Aero. Check
the Aero FAQ for where to get it if you're not sure.

2. Be sure you have Compaq Setup Disk 1, SP2054, and Compaq Diagnostics Disk
2, SP2373. These versions appear necessary to allow all 1.3G of the disk to be
seen during fdisk and format (there may be an earlier version that works, but I
_know_ these do. Check the Aero FAQ for locations if you don't have them.
Make sure the disks work by running them before proceeding further.

3. Familiarize yourself with the disassembly procedure outlined in the FAQ for
replacing the HD. DISCONNECT ALL EXTERNAL POWER AND REMOVE BATTERY BEFORE
PROCEEDING.

- note: The harddrive replacement tutorial should be the section
following this primer. (Subject: 2.1.4.4.2 A step-by-step
tutorial) - PW

4. Do _not_ remove the lower of the two screws on back of the Aero next to the
external power supply jack. As the FAQ notes, it isn't necessary and will
greatly increase the chances you'll damage the video ribbon cable or other
parts of the display.

5. I recommend removing the bezel surrounding the screen, as it makes removal
of the upper case half of the Aero much easier. See the FAQ for details on how
to do this. Work slowly and carefully, and don't force anything. Then, remove
the upper case half--again, see the FAQ (as there is no point in my repeating
all of that here).

6. Once the upper case half is removed, unscrew the small screws securing the
keyboard, and fold it over toward you. Do not disconnect the keyboard as it
isn't necessary. Be very careful not to stress the keyboard ribbon cable.
Just let the keyboard lie flat in front of the Aero.

7. Remove the long screw securing the drive carrier to the Aero. Do not try
to disconnect the ribbon cable which runs across the top of the drive and then
makes a right angle turn towards the trackball. It is very easy to damage.
Instead, unscrew the trackball housing. Before lifting the assembly up, pay
particular notice to how the purple trackball buttons fit in the side casing,
as you'll need to put them back exactly that way. Now, lift the trackball
assembly, purple button assembly, and ribbon cable, all attached together,
and lay them over on the left side of the Aero. The drive can now be
accessed for easy removal.

8. Carefully grasp the drive and pull it straight back, then lift it by the
back, up and out. MAKE SURE YOU ARE GROUNDED. DO NOT TOUCH THE UNDERSIDE OF
THE DRIVE OR ANY OF ITS CONNECTORS. Handle the drive by its sides only.

9. Notice how the drive carrier is screwed to the old drive. Unscrew it and
attach it in the same way to the MobileMax. GROUND YOURSELF WHEN TOUCHING
THE MOBILEMAX; HANDLE IT ONLY BY ITS SIDES. Put the old drive in the
MobileMax's static bag for safekeeping. Check with DALCO for inexpensive
adapters to let you use your old 2.5" drive in a desktop (see the FAQ for
parts numbers and phone).

10. Place the MobileMax with carrier properly attached in the Aero, and slide
it firmly forward until it stops. Replace the long carrier screw.
Reassemble the trackball/purple buttons asssembly. Be sure those buttons
go back in the right way, or you'll mash their connector when you replace the
upper case half.

11. Check to make sure the keyboard cable did not pull out of its connectors,
and that the video cable is also firmly attached. Place the keyboard back
in its location and attach the small screws. Do not replace the upper case
half and bezel until you see if the drive works--otherwise you'll just have to
tear into it all over again.

12. Insert the floppy drive card into the PCMCIA slot.

13. Put Setup Disk 1 into the drive (SP2054).

14. Apply external power (DON'T use the battery--it could fail during this
critical setup) and turn on the Aero. It will boot from the Setup floppy
if you have properly copied to the disk. You should hear the MobileMax power
up. It has a strange, two-stage spinup that sounds something like a car
shifting up through gears (at least, after it is installed properly).

15. Follow the directions on the screen.

NOTE: After you fdisk and format the drive, you will not have 1.3G, but
something less (1280MB or therabouts). This is NORMAL; you're not being
cheated by Maxtor--it has to do with how formatted disk space is calculated.
So many people freak out when they see the "missing" MB's. Don't worry!

If you find that you cannot get fdisk to recognize more than 500 MB or so, it
is almost certainly because (a) you do not have the latest ROM upgrade and/or
(b) you don't have the proper Setup/Diagnostic disks. Get the right ones and
things should work.

16. Replace the upper case half and screen bezel, and enjoy that fast little
drive.

Finally, you don't need Disk Mangler or any other dynamic disk overlay program
to use the full capacity of this drive. It just isn't needed, and will add
many complications. Don't use it! The Aero's latest ROM bios fully supports
the capacity of this drive.

Douglas Kocher

------------------------------

Subject: 2.1.4.4.2 A step-by-step tutorial

Date: Thu, 6 Apr 95 00:27:44 EDT
From: Bill Flynn

with modifications by Philip Wilk

I just upgraded my Aero 4/33c's hard drive from 170mb to 720mb. This process
was remarkably simple. The new drive is an IBM DBOA2720, 12mm 13ms. It was $699
from Micro Sense, CA (800)544-4252. I run Linux and the X Window system on this
and maintain a small dos partition for maintenance tasks not accesible to
PC-UNIX (essentially, a 640k PROM ;-<). I summarize the process below.

These is a procedure that I followed to replace my drive. Use at your own risk.
Replacing your own hardware may likely interfere with your Compaq warranty. I
can not be responsible for any damages incurred should you set out on this
course.

Before removing drive

1. Go into Compaq setup by pressing F10 on bootup when the cursor goes to
the upper right corner of the screen.
2. Select the option to "Create a Diagnostics Diskette". From here feed the
required diskettes and then feel safe that you will be able to restore
this neat little setup partition. NOTE: The setup partition must be the
fist partition on the hard drive so it must be installed before making any
other partitions!
3. Go into "Computer Setup", then into "Storage", then "Configure Fixed Disk
Drives". Write down the all information under "Fixed Disk Drive
Information".
4. Back up any data you need to secondary media ;*)

Drive installation

1. I strongly suggest using a grounding strap. These should be available
from local electronics or hobby shops, if you dont have on already.
2. Carefully disassemble the Aero. There are 4 screws on the bottom, and two
in the rear. All the screws to be removed are black.

!!!!Note!!!!
Date: Tue, 18 Jun 1996 17:05:05 -0500 (CDT)
From: Peter Barrette

I would like to make a correction in the HDD replacement instructions.
Step 2 has the user removing both of the rear screws. Only removal of the
top screw is neccessary while removing both can create difficulty in
handling the screen.


3. There is a "shell" surrounding the keyboard which snaps apart in the
front. Be careful not to scratch the case if prying this with a sharp
object. This peice is somewhat difficult to remove from the hinges of the
display. BE CAREFUL with the ribbon connecting the LCD display to the
internal assembly.
4. The system board and hard drive are located under the keyboard. Unscrew
this again being careful with the ribbon cables connecting the keyboard to
the system board. The keyboard can be laid toward the front, out of the
way.
5. The hard drive can now be accessed. It slides away from the system board(
to the right). Once disconnected, it can be lifted out. Lift it out front
first or the screws on the back may put too much pressure on one of the
circuit boards. There is a vertical tab on the disk mount which has to
clear the ridge across the f