Aspire 5920G Series Service Guide
Service guide files and updates are available on the ACER/CSD web; for more information, please refer to http://csd.acer.com.tw

PRINTED IN TAIWAN

Revision History
Please refer to the table below for the updates made on Aspire Chapla service guide.

Chapter

Updates

Copyright

Copyright 2007 by Acer Incorporated. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language or computer language, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, magnetic, optical, chemical, manual or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Acer Incorporated.

Disclaimer

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

Conventions

The following conventions are used in this manual: SCREEN MESSAGES NOTE Denotes actual messages that appear on screen. Gives bits and pieces of additional information related to the current topic. Alerts you to any damage that might result from doing or not doing specific actions. Gives precautionary measures to avoid possible hardware or software problems. Reminds you to do specific actions relevant to the accomplishment of procedures.

WARNING

CAUTION

IMPORTANT

Preface
Before using this information and the product it supports, please read the following general information. 1. This Service Guide provides you with all technical information relating to the BASIC CONFIGURATION decided for Acer's "global" product offering. To better fit local market requirements and enhance product competitiveness, your regional office MAY have decided to extend the functionality of a machine (e.g. add-on card, modem, or extra memory capability). These LOCALIZED FEATURES will NOT be covered in this generic service guide. In such cases, please contact your regional offices or the responsible personnel/channel to provide you with further technical details. Please note WHEN ORDERING FRU PARTS, that you should check the most up-to-date information available on your regional web or channel. If, for whatever reason, a part number change is made, it will not be noted in the printed Service Guide. For ACER-AUTHORIZED SERVICE PROVIDERS, your Acer office may have a DIFFERENT part number code to those given in the FRU list of this printed Service Guide. You MUST use the list provided by your regional Acer office to order FRU parts for repair and service of customer machines.

Chapter 1

System Specifications

Features

Below is a brief summary of the computers many features:

Operating system

Genuine Windows VistaTM Capable Genuine Windows VistaTM Home Basic / Home Premium / Ultimate / Business Edition Genuine Windows XP Home / Professional Edition (Service Pack 2) Genuine Windows XP Media Center / Tablet Edition Genuine Windows 2000 (Service Pack 4) NOTE: Windows VistaTM Capable PCs come with Windows XP installed, and can be upgraded to Windows VistaTM. For more information on Windows VistaTM and how to upgrade, go to: Microsoft.com/windowsvista.

Platform and memory

Intel Mobile Merom mobile technology, featuring:
Intel CoreTM Duo processor (4 MB L2 cache, 1.66/1.83/2/2.16 GHz, 800 MHz FSB) or higher Intel PM965 Chipset
Integrated Intel PRO/Wireless 3945ABGN network connection (dual-band tri-mode 802.11a/b/g/ n) Wi-Fi CERTIFIEDTM solution, supporting Acer SignalUpTM wireless technology Core logic: Intel Santa Rose Platform, Crestline 965GM+ICH8M (north bridge+ south bridge) Up to 2GB of DDR2 533/677 MHz memory, upgradeable to 4GB using two soDIMM modules (dual-channel support)

Optical disk access indicator Optical drive eject button Emergency eject hole USB 2.0 port

Kensington lock slot

Rear view

Item DC-in jack

Description Connects to an AC adapter.

Base view

Item Battery bay Battery lock Battery release latch Ventilation slots and cooling fan System fan Memory compartment Hard disk bay
Description Houses the computers battery pack. Locks the battery in position. Releases the battery for removal. Enable the computer to stay cool, even after prolonged use. Note: Do not cover or obstruct the opening of the fan. Enables the motheboard to stay cool, even after prolonged use. Note: Do not cover or obstruct the opening of the fan. Houses the computers main memory. Houses the computers hard disk (secured with screws)

Indicators

The computer has several easy-to-read status indicators.
The front panel indicators are visible even when the computer cover is closed up. 12 Chapter 1

Function

Description

Icon HDD

Description Indicates when the hard disc or optical drive is active.

Num lock

Lights when Num Lock is activated.

Cap lock

Lights when Cap Lock is activated
Lights up when the computer is on.

Battery

Lights up when the battery is being charged.

Bluetooth

Indicates the status of Bluetooth communication.

Wireless LAN

Indicates the status of wireless LAN communication.
NOTE: 1. Charging: The light shows amber when the battery is charging. 2. Fully charged: The light shows green when in AC mode.

Easy-Launch Buttons

To the right of the keyboard there are three easy-launch buttons: Web browser, mail, and one userprogrammable button. You can also find an Empowering Key located above the keyboard.
Press to run the Acer Empowering Technology. The mail and Web browser buttons are pre-set to email and Internet programs, but can be reset by users. To set the Web browser, mail and programmable buttons, run the Acer Launch Manager.

Launch key

Default application Acer Empowering Technology (user-programmable)

Web browser Mail P

Internet browser (user-programmable) Email application (user-programmable) User-programmable

Touchpad Basics

The following teaches you how to use the touchpad:
Move your finger across the touchpad (2) to move the cursor. Press the left (1) and right (4) buttons located beneath the touchpad to perform selection and execution functions. These two buttons are similar to the left and right buttons on a mouse. Tapping on the touchpad is the same as clicking the left button. Use the fingerprinter (3) to enroll the computer with registered fingerprint. This recognition device helps prevent unauthorized access by others.
Function Execute Left Button (1) Click twice quickly Right Button (4) Main touchpad (2) Tap twice (at the same speed as double-clicking the mouse button) Tap once Tap twice (at the same speed as double-clicking a mouse button); rest your finger on the touchpad on the second tap and drag the cursor. Click once Swipe your finger over the fingerprinter. Fingerprinter (3)

Select Drag

Click once Click and hold, then use finger on the touchpad to drag the cursor.
Access context menu Log in with authorized fingerprint
NOTE: When using the touchpad, keep it - and your fingers - dry and clean. The touchpad is sensitive to finger movements; hence, the lighter the touch, the better the response. Tapping too hard will not increase the touchpads responsiveness.

Using the Keyboard

The keyboard has full-sized keys and an embedded keypad, separate cursor keys, one Windows key and twelve function keys.
Lock Keys and embedded numeric keypad
The keyboard has three lock keys which you can toggle on and off.
Lock Key Caps Lock Num lock <Fn>+<F11>
Description When Caps Lock is on, all alphabetic characters typed are in uppercase. When Num Lock is on, the embedded keypad is in numeric mode. The keys function as a calculator (complete with the arithmetic operators +, -, *, and /). Use this mode when you need to do a lot of numeric data entry. A better solution would be to connect an external keypad. When Scroll Lock is on, the screen moves one line up or down when you press the up or down arrow keys respectively. Scroll Lock does not work with some applications.
Scroll lock <Fn>+<F12>
The embedded numeric keypad functions like a desktop numeric keypad. It is indicated by small characters located on the upper right corner of the keycaps. To simplify the keyboard legend, cursor-control key symbols are not printed on the keys.
Desired Access Number keys on embedded keypad Cursor-control keys on embedded keypad Main keyboard keys Num Lock On Type numbers in a normal manner. Hold <Shift> while using cursor-control keys. Hold <Fn> while typing letters on embedded keypad. Hold <Fn> while using cursor-control keys. Type the letters in a normal manner. Num Lock Off

Acer eDataSecurity Management
Acer eDataSecurity Management is handy file encryption utility that protects your files from being accessed by unauthorized persons. It is conveniently integrated with Windows explorer as a shell extension for quick and easy data encryption/decryption and also supports on-the-fly file encryption for MSN Messenger and Microsoft Outlook. The Acer eDataSecurity Management setup wizard will prompt you for a supervisor password and default encryption. This encryption will be used to encrypt files by default, or you can choose to enter your won filespecific password when encrypting a file. NOTE: The password used encrypt a file is the unique key that the system needs to decrypt it. If you lose the password, the supervisor password is the only other key capable of decrypting the file. If you lose both passwords, there will be no way to decrypt your encrypted file! Be sure to safeguard all related passwords!

Acer eLock Management

Acer eLock Management is a security utility that allows you to lock your removable data, optical and floppy drives to ensure that data cannot be stolen while your notebook is unattended. Removable data devices - includes USB disk drives, USB pen drives, USB flash drives, USB MP3 drives, USB memory card readers, IEEE 1394 disk drives and any other removable disk drives that can be mounted as a file system when plugged into the system. Optical drive devices - includes any kind of CD-ROM or DVD-ROM drives. Floppy disk drives - 3.5-inch disks only. Interfaces - includes serial ports, parallel port, infrared (IR), and Bluetooth. To activate Acer eLock Management, a password must be set first. Once set, you can apply locks to any of the devices. Lock(s) will immediately be set without any reboot necessary, and will remain locked after rebooting, until unlocked. NOTE: If you lose your password, there is no method to reset it except by reformatting your notebook or taking your notebook to an Acer Customer Service Center. Be sure to remember or write down your password.
Acer eRecovery Management
Acer eRecovery Management is a powerful utility that does away with the need for recovery disks provided by the manufacturer. The Acer eRecovery Management utility occupies space in a hidden partition on your systems HDD. User-created backups are stored on D:\ drive. Acer eRecovery Management provides you with: Password protection. Recovery of applications and drivers. Image/data backup: Back up to HDD (set recovery point). Back up to CD/DVD. Image/data recovery tools: Recover from a hidden partition (factory defaults). Recover from the HDD (most recent user-defined recovery point). Recover from CD/DVD.

Option

Clear or Set Clear or Set Clear or Set

Set User Password

Set Hard Disk Password

Password on Boot

Disabled or Enabled
NOTE: When you are prompted to enter a password, you have three tries before the system halts. Dont forget your password. If you forget your password, you may have to return your notebook computer to your dealer to reset it.

Setting a Password

Follow these steps as you set the supervisor, user, or hard disk password: 1. Use the w and y keys to highlight the Set Supervisor Password parameter and press the e key. The Set Supervisor Password box appears:
Type a password in the Enter New Password field. The password length can not exceed 8 alphanumeric characters (A-Z, a-z, 0-9, not case sensitive). Retype the password in the Confirm New Password field.
IMPORTANT: Be very careful when typing your password because the characters do not appear on the screen. 3. 4. 5. Press e. After setting the password, the computer sets the Supervisor Password parameter to Set. If desired, you can opt to enable the Password on boot parameter. When you are done, press u to save the changes and exit the BIOS Setup Utility.

Removing a Password

Follow these steps: 1. Use the w and y keys to highlight the Set Supervisor Password parameter and press the e key. The Set Supervisor Password box appears:

2. 3. 4.

Type the current password in the Enter Current Password field and press e. Press e twice without typing anything in the Enter New Password and Confirm New Password fields. The computer then sets the Supervisor Password parameter to Clear. When you have changed the settings, press u to save the changes and exit the BIOS Setup Utility.

Changing a Password

1. Use the w and y keys to highlight the Set Supervisor Password parameter and press the e key. The Set Supervisor Password box appears:

2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Type the current password in the Enter Current Password field and press e. Type a password in the Enter New Password field. Retype the password in the Confirm New Password field. Press e. After setting the password, the computer sets the Supervisor Password parameter to Set. If desired, you can enable the Password on boot parameter. When you are done, press u to save the changes and exit the BIOS Setup Utility.
If the verification is OK, the screen will display as following.
The password setting is complete after the user presses u. If the current password entered does not match the actual current password, the screen will show you the Setup Warning.

If the new password and confirm new password strings do not match, the screen will display the following message.
This menu allows the user to decide the order of boot devices to load the operating system. Bootable devices includes the diskette drive in module bay, the onboard hard disk drive, and the CD-ROM in module bay.
Item Specific Help Boot priority order: 1: PCI BEV : MBA v9.4.5 Slot 0800 2: USB FDC : 3: IDE HDD: ST980811AS-(S1) 4: IDE CD : Optiarc DVD RW AD-7530A-(P 5: USB HDD : 6: USB CDROM : 7: USB KEY : 8: Excluded from boot order :
Keys used to view or configure devices : Up and Down arrows select a device. <+> and <-> moves the device up or down. <f> and <r> specifies the device fixed or removable. <x> exclude or include the device to boot. <Shift + 1> enables or disables a device. <1 - 4> Loads default boot sequence.
The Exit screen contains parameters that help safeguard and protect your computer from unauthorized use.
Item Specific Help Exit Saving Changes Exit Discarding Changes Load Setup Defaults Discard Changes Save Changes Exit System Setup and save your changes to CMOS.
The table below describes the parameters in this screen.
Parameter Exit Saving Changes Exit Discarding Changes Load Setup Default Discard Changes Save Changes
Description Exit System Setup and save your changes to CMOS. Exit utility without saving setup data to CMOS. Load default values for all SETUP item. Load previous values from CMOS for all SETUP items. Save Setup Data to CMOS.

BIOS Flash Utility

The BIOS flash memory update is required for the following conditions: New versions of system programs New features or options Restore a BIOS when it becomes corrupted. Use the Phlash utility to update the system BIOS flash ROM. NOTE: If you do not have a crisis recovery diskette at hand, then you should create a Crisis Recovery Diskette before you use the Phlash utility. NOTE: Do not install memory-related drivers (XMS, EMS, DPMI) when you use the Phlash. NOTE: Please use the AC adaptor power supply when you run the Phlash utility. If the battery pack does not contain enough power to finish BIOS flash, you may not boot the system because the BIOS is not completely loaded. Follow the steps below to run the Phlash. 1. 2. 3. Prepare a bootable diskette. Copy the flash utilities to the bootable diskette. Then boot the system from the bootable diskette. The flash utility has auto-execution function.

Removing the Email Board

25. Remove the protective mylar sheet covering the email board. 26. Disconnect the email board cable and remove the screw fastening the email board. 27. Remove the email board.
Removing the Touchpad Board
28. Disconnect the touchpad cables. 29. Remove the two screws fastening the touchpad board. 30. Remove the touchpad board.
Removing the Launch Key Board
31. Remove the four screws fastening the launch key board. 32. Disconnect the launch key board cable as shown. 33. Remove the launch key board and disconnect the cable.

Removing the Speaker

34. Remove the speaker cable from the upper case. 35. Remove the four screws fastening the speaker. 36. Remove the speaker.
Disassembling the LCD Module
1. 2. 3. Remove the six screw rubbers as shown. Then remove the six screws fastening the LCD bezel. Detach the LCD bezel from the LCD module carefully.

4. 5. 6.

Remove the six screws holding the LCD. Detach the two inverter cable connectors from the inverter board. Disconnect the CCD cable connector from the CCD board.
Take out the LCD from the LCD panel. Remove the two screws fastening the left LCD bracket and detach it.
Remove the two screws fastening the right LCD bracket and detach it.
10. Disconnect the LCD cable from the LCD. 11. Detach the CMOS cable from the LCD cover and remove the CMOS module.
Disassembling the External Modules
Disassembling the HDD Module
1. 2. Remove the four screws holding the HDD (hard disk drive) case; two on each side. Carefully take out the hard disk drive from the HDD case.
Disassembling the ODD Module
1. 2. Remove the two screws holding the optical bracket. Then remove the optical bracket from the optical disk drive.

Chapter 4

Troubleshooting
Use the following procedure as a guide for computer problems. NOTE: The diagnostic tests are intended to test only Acer products. Non-Acer products, prototype cards, or modified options can give false errors and invalid system responses. 1. 2. 3. Obtain the failing symptoms in as much detail as possible. Verify the symptoms by attempting to re-create the failure by running the diagnostic test or by repeating the same operation. Use the following table with the verified symptom to determine which page to go to.
Symptoms (Verified) Power failure (The power indicator does not go on or stay on). POST does not complete. No beep or error codes are indicated. POST detects an error and displayed messages on screen. Other symptoms (i.e. LCD display problems or others). Symptoms cannot be re-created (intermittent problems).

Go To Power System Check on page 69 Power-On Self-Test (POST) Error Message on page 72 Undetermined Problems on page 84 Error Message List on page 73 Power-On Self-Test (POST) Error Message on page 72 Use the customer-reported symptoms and go to Power-On Self-Test (POST) Error Message on page 72 Intermittent Problems on page 83 Undetermined Problems on page 84

System Check Procedures

External Diskette Drive Check
Do the following to isolate the problem to a controller, driver, or diskette. A write-enabled, diagnostic diskette is required. NOTE: Make sure that the diskette does not have more than one label attached to it. Multiple labels can cause damage to the drive or cause the drive to fail. Do the following to select the test device: 1. 2. 3. Boot from the diagnostics diskette and start the diagnostics program. See if FDD Test is passed as the program runs to FDD Test. Follow the instructions in the message window.
If an error occurs with the internal diskette drive, reconnect the diskette connector on the system board. If the error still remains: 1. 2. 3. Reconnect the external diskette drive/DVD-ROM module. Replace the external diskette drive/CD-ROM module. Replace the main board.
External CD-ROM Drive Check
Do the following to isolate the problem to a controller, drive, or CD-ROM. Make sure that the CD-ROM does not have any label attached to it. The label can cause damage to the drive or can cause the drive to fail. Do the following to select the test device: 1. 2. 3. 1. 2. 3. Boot from the diagnostics diskette and start the diagnostics program. See if CD-ROM Test is passed when the program runs to CD-ROM Test. Follow the instructions in the message window. Reconnect the external diskette drive/CD-ROM module. Replace the external diskette drive/CD-ROM module. Replace the main board.
If an error occurs, reconnect the connector on the System board. If the error still remains:
Keyboard or Auxiliary Input Device Check
Remove the external keyboard if the internal keyboard is to be tested. If the internal keyboard does not work or an unexpected character appears, make sure that the flexible cable extending from the keyboard is correctly seated in the connector on the system board. If the keyboard cable connection is correct, run the Keyboard Test. If the tests detect a keyboard problem, do the following one at a time to correct the problem. Do not replace a non-defective FRU: 1. 2. 3. Reconnect the keyboard cables. Replace the keyboard. Replace the main board.

The following auxiliary input devices are supported by this computer: Numeric keypad External keyboard 68 Chapter 4
If any of these devices do not work, reconnect the cable connector and repeat the failing operation.

Memory check

Memory errors might stop system operations, show error messages on the screen, or hang the system. 1. 2. 3. Boot from the diagnostics diskette and start the doagmpstotics program (please refer to main board). Go to the diagnostic memory in the test items. Press F2 in the test items.
4. Follow the instructions in the message window. NOTE: Make sure that the DIMM is fully installed into the connector. A loose connection can cause an error.

Power System Check

To verify the symptom of the problem, power on the computer using each of the following power sources: 1. 2. 3. Remove the battery pack. Connect the power adapter and check that power is supplied. Disconnect the power adapter and install the charged battery pack; then check that power is supplied by the battery pack. Check the Power Adapter on page 70 Check the Battery Pack on page 71
If you suspect a power problem, see the appropriate power supply check in the following list:

Check the Power Adapter

Unplug the power adapter cable from the computer and measure the output voltage at the plug of the power adapter cable. See the following figure:
Pin 1: +19 to +20.5V Pin 2: 0V, Ground
If the voltage is not correct, replace the power adapter. If the voltage is within the range, do the following: Replace the System board. If the problem is not corrected, see Undetermined Problems on page 84.
If the voltage is not correct, go to the next step. NOTE: An audible noise from the power adapter does not always indicate a defect. 3. 4. If the power-on indicator does not light up, check the power cord of the power adapter for correct continuity and installation. If the operational charge does not work, see Check the Battery Pack on page 71.

Check the Battery Pack

To check the battery pack, do the following: From Software: 1. 2. 3. 4. 1. 2. Check out the Power Management in Control Panel In Power Meter, confirm that if the parameters shown in the screen for Current Power Source and Total Battery Power Remaining are correct. Repeat the steps 1 and 2, for both battery and adapter. This helps you identify first the problem is on recharging or discharging. Power off the computer. Remove the battery pack and measure the voltage between battery terminals 1(+) and 6(ground). See the following figure

From Hardware:

Index of Error Messages

Error Code List
Error Codes 006 Causes: 1. CPU BIOS Update Code Mismatch 2. IDE Primary Channel Master Drive Error (THe causes will be shown before Equipment Configuration Error) 110 <No error code> Memory Error at xxxx:xxxx:xxxxh (R:xxxxh, W:xxxxh) Real Time Clock Error CMOS Battery Bad CMOS Checksum Error System disabled. Incorrect password is specified. Battery critical LOW In this situation BIOS will issue 4 short beeps then shut down system, no message will show. <No error code> Thermal critical High In this situation BIOS will shut down system, not show message. Error Messages Equipment Configuration Error

Error Message List

Error Messages Failure Fixed Disk FRU/Action in Sequence Reconnect hard disk drive connector. Load Default Settings in BIOS Setup Utility. Hard disk drive System board Stuck Key Keyboard error Keyboard Controller Failed Keyboard locked - Unlock key switch Monitor type does not match CMOS - Run Setup Shadow RAM Failed at offset: nnnn System RAM Failed at offset: nnnn Extended RAM Failed at offset: nnnn System battery is dead - Replace and run Setup System CMOS checksum bad - Default configuration used System timer error see Keyboard or Auxiliary Input Device Check on page 68. see Keyboard or Auxiliary Input Device Check on page 68. see Keyboard or Auxiliary Input Device Check on page 68. Unlock external keyboard Run Load Default Settings in BIOS Setup Utility. BIOS ROM System board DIMM System board DIMM System board Replace RTC battery and Run BIOS Setup Utility to reconfigure system time, then reboot system. RTC battery Run BIOS Setup Utility to reconfigure system time, then reboot system. RTC battery Run BIOS Setup Utility to reconfigure system time, then reboot system. System board
Error Messages Real time clock error RTC battery Run BIOS Setup Utility to reconfigure system time, then reboot system. System board Previous boot incomplete - Default configuration used Memory size found by POST differed from CMOS Diskette drive A error Run Load Default Settings in BIOS Setup Utility. RTC battery System board Run Load Default Settings in BIOS Setup Utility. DIMM System board Check the drive is defined with the proper diskette type in BIOS Setup Utility See External Diskette Drive Check on page 68. Incorrect Drive A type - run SETUP System cache error - Cache disabled CPU ID: DMA Test Failed Software NMI Failed Fail-Safe Timer NMI Failed Device Address Conflict Check the drive is defined with the proper diskette type in BIOS Setup Utility System board System board DIMM System board DIMM System board DIMM System board Run Load Default Settings in BIOS Setup Utility. RTC battery System board Allocation Error for device Run Load Default Settings in BIOS Setup Utility. RTC battery System board Failing Bits: nnnn DIMM BIOS ROM System board Fixed Disk n Invalid System Configuration Data I/O device IRQ conflict None BIOS ROM System board Run Load Default Settings in BIOS Setup Utility. RTC battery System board Operating system not found Enter Setup and see if fixed disk and drive A: are properly identified. Diskette drive Hard disk drive System board FRU/Action in Sequence

No beep Error Messages No beep, power-on indicator turns off and LCD is blank. FRU/Action in Sequence Power source (battery pack and power adapter). See Power System Check on page 69. Ensure every connector is connected tightly and correctly. Reconnect the DIMM. LED board. System board. No beep, power-on indicator turns on and LCD is blank. Power source (battery pack and power adapter). See Power System Check on page 69. Reconnect the LCD connector Hard disk drive LCD inverter ID LCD cable LCD Inverter LCD System board No beep, power-on indicator turns on and LCD is blank. But you can see POST on an external CRT. Reconnect the LCD connectors. LCD inverter ID LCD cable LCD inverter LCD System board No beep, power-on indicator turns on and a blinking cursor shown on LCD during POST. No beep during POST but system runs correctly. Ensure every connector is connected tightly and correctly. System board Speaker System board

Phoenix BIOS Beep Codes

Code 02h 03h 04h 06h 08h 09h 0Ah 0Bh 0Ch 0Eh 0Fh 10h 11h 12h 13h 14h 16h 17h 18h 1Ah 1Ch 20h 22h 24h 26h 28h 29h 2Ah 2Ch 2Eh 2Fh 30h 32h 33h 36h 38h 3Ah 3Ch 3Dh 42h 45h 1-4-1-1 1-3-4-1 1-3-4-3 1-3-1-1 1-3-1-3 1-2-2-3 Beeps POST Routine Description Verify Real Mode Disable Non-Maskable Interrupt (NMI) Get CPU type Initialize system hardware Initialize chipset with initial POST values Set IN POST flag Initialize CPU registers Enable CPU cache Initialize caches to initial POST values Initialize I/O component Initialize the local bus IDE Initialize Power Management Load alternate registers with initial POST values Restore CPU control word during warm boot Initialize PCI Bus Mastering devices Initialize keyboard controller BIOS ROM checksum Initialize cache before memory autosize 8254 timer initialization 8237 DMA controller initialization Reset Programmable Interrupt Controller Test DRAM refresh Test 8742 Keyboard Controller Set ES segment register to 4 GB Enable A20 line Autosize DRAM Initialize POST Memory Manager Clear 215 KB base RAM RAM failure on address line xxxx RAM failure on data bits xxxx of low byte of memory bus Enable cache before system BIOS shadow RAM failure on data bits xxxx of high byte of memory bus Test CPU bus-clock frequency Initialize Phoenix Dispatch Manager Warm start shut down Shadow system BIOS ROM Autosize cache Advanced configuration of chipset registers Load alternate registers with CMOS values Initialize interrupt vectors POST device initialization
Code 46h 48h 49h 4Ah 4Bh 4Ch 4Eh 50h 51h 52h 54h 58h 59h 5Ah 5Bh 5Ch 60h 62h 64h 66h 67h 68h 69h 6Ah 6Bh 6Ch 6Eh 70h 72h 76h 7Ch 7Eh 80h 81h 82h 83h 84h 85h 86h 87h 88h 89h 8Ah 8Bh 2-2-3-1 2-1-2-3

POST Routine Description Check ROM copyright notice Check video configuration against CMOS Initialize PCI bus and devices Initialize all video adapters in system QuietBoot start (optional) Shadow video BIOS ROM Display BIOS copyright notice Display CPU type and speed Initialize EISA board Test keyboard Set key click if enabled Test for unexpected interrupts Initialize POST display service Display prompt Press F2 to enter SETUP Disable CPU cache Test RAM between 512 and 640 KB Test extended memory Test extended memory address lines Jump to User Patch1 Configure advanced cache registers Initialize Multi Processor APIC Enable external and CPU caches Setup System Management Mode (SMM) area Display external L2 cache size Load custom defaults (optional) Display shadow-area message Display possible high address for UMB recovery Display error messages Check for configuration errors Check for keyboard errors Set up hardware interrupt vectors Initialize coprocessor if present Disable onboard Super I/O ports and IRQs Late POST device initialization Detect and install external RS232 ports Configure non-MCD IDE controllers Detect and install external parallel ports Initialize PC-compatible PnP ISA devices Re-initialize onboard I/O ports Configure Motherboard Configurable Devices (optional) Initialize BIOS Area Enable Non-Maskable Interrupts (NMIs) Initialize Extended BIOS Data Area Test and initialize PS/2 mouse
Code 8Ch 8Fh 90h 91h 92h 93h 95h 96h 97h 98h 99h 9Ah 9Ch 9Dh 9Eh 9Fh A0h A2h A4h A8h AAh ACh AEh B0h B2h B4h B5h B6h B9h BAh BBh BCh BDh BEh BFh C0h C1h C2h C3h C4h C5h C6h C7h C8h C9h 1 1-2
POST Routine Description Initialize floppy controller Determine number of ATA drives (optional) Initialize hard-disk controllers Initialize local-bus hard-disk controllers Jump to UserPatch2 Build MPTABLE for multi-processor boards Install CD ROM for boot Clear huge ES segment register Fixup Multi Processor table Search for option ROMs. One long, two short beeps on checksum failure. Check for SMART drive (optional) Shadow option ROMs Set up Power Management Initialize security engine (optional) Enable hardware interrupts Determine number of ATA and SCSI drives Set time of day Check key lock Initialize Typematic rate Erase F2 prompt Scan for F2 key stroke Enter SETUP Clear Boot flag Check for errors POST done- prepare to boot operating system One short beep before boot Terminate QuietBoot (optional) Check password (optional) Prepare Boot Initialize DMI parameters Initialize PnP Option ROMs Clear parity checkers Display MultiBoot menu Clear screen (optional) Check virus and backup reminders Try to boot with INT 19 Initialize POST Error Manager (PEM) Initialize error logging Initialize error display function Initialize system error handler PnPnd dual CMOS (optional) Initialize notebook docking (optional) Initialize notebook docking late Force check (optional) Extended checksum (optional)

NOTE: If you cannot find a symptom or an error in this list and the problem remains, see Undetermined Problems on page 84.

Intermittent Problems

Intermittent system hang problems can be caused by a variety of reasons that have nothing to do with a hardware defect, such as: cosmic radiation, electrostatic discharge, or software errors. FRU replacement should be considered only when a recurring problem exists. When analyzing an intermittent problem, do the following: 1. 2. 3. Run the advanced diagnostic test for the system board in loop mode at least 10 times. If no error is detected, do not replace any FRU. If any error is detected, replace the FRU. Rerun the test to verify that there are no more errors.

Undetermined Problems

The diagnostic problems does not identify which adapter or device failed, which installed devices are incorrect, whether a short circuit is suspected, or whether the system is inoperative. Follow these procedures to isolate the failing FRU (do not isolate non-defective FRU). NOTE: Verify that all attached devices are supported by the computer. NOTE: Verify that the power supply being used at the time of the failure is operating correctly. (See Power System Check on page 69.): 1. 2. 3. Power-off the computer. Visually check them for damage. If any problems are found, replace the FRU. Remove or disconnect all of the following devices: Non-Acer devices Printer, mouse, and other external devices Battery pack Hard disk drive DIMM CD-ROM/Diskette drive Module PC Cards 4. 5. 6. 7. Power-on the computer. Determine if the problem has changed. If the problem does not recur, reconnect the removed devices one at a time until you find the failing FRU. If the problem remains, replace the following FRU one at a time. Do not replace a non-defective FRU: System board LCD assembly

Chapter 5

Jumper and Connector Locations

Chapter 6

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

22 April 2008

By: Bogdan Botezatu, Hardware Editor
Acer Working on WiMax-Ready Aspire 5920 for Sprint
The notebook will be sold with a subscription package
Acer has just introduced its upcoming Aspire 5920 series of notebooks equipped with a built-in WiMax module. The Taiwanese computer manufacturer plans to sell the new notebook offering through Sprint Nextel and other retail partners. According to the The Aspire 5290 company, the new Acer Aspire 5920 notebook will be sold in a manner that is strikingly sports a 15.4-inch LCD display for maximum similar to the way mobile phones are. The units will be sold as mere terminal upon portability subscribing for a WiMax service package.Pricing for the upcoming Aspire 5920 will vary Acer depending on the individual plan chosen by the customer. However, other pricing details are still light and likely to show up as soon as Sprint's long-delayed Xohm network ends its extended trial period. Acer is one of the notebook manufacturers that adopted Intel's embedded WiMax module with WiFi capability. The Echo Peak module is an important part in Intel's upcoming Centrino Pro platform. Other adopters are Lenovo, Panasonic and Toshiba, that will also deliver WiMax-equipped notebooks later this year, but none of the companies released official details about such systems.The Aspire 5920 model has already entered mass-production at Quanta Computer's facilities. It is allegedly hitting the market later this year, just in time for the official unveiling of Sprint's Xohm network. Acer's product marketing manager Trisha Pan said that Intel was also buying Acer notebooks to perform a couple of internal tests. Other WiMax network operators will be provided sampling units for compatibility and stress tests. However, these notebooks will not be available until Sprint and other retail partners start selling the devices.There are no other details regarding Aspire's 5920 technical specifications, but it is expected to come with all the features in the initial version of the model (the genuine 5920 was available without a WiMax module). The currently existing Aspire 5920 model comes without WiMAX capabilities and sports a 15.4-inch display, Core 2 Duo CPU, NVIDIA GeForce 8600M GT and a/g/n WiFi connectivity.
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