TOSHIBA TECRA A11 (01) PDF Document

If you need assistance with your TOSHIBA TECRA A11, you can check Toshiba’s Support Web site or call the Toshiba Customer Support Center.

To connect AC power to the TOSHIBA TECRA A11 computer, follow these steps:

Step 1. Connect the power cord/cable to the AC adaptor.

Step 2. Plug the AC adaptor cord into the DC-IN on the back of the computer.

Step 3. Connect the power cord/cable to a live electrical outlet. The AC power light on the indicator panel glows green.

If liquid or moisture accidentally occurs, immediately perform the following actions:

Step 1. Turn off the computer.

Step 2. Disconnect the AC adaptor from the power plug socket and computer.

Step 3. Remove the battery pack.

Failure to follow these instructions could result in serious injury or permanent damage to the computer. Do not turn on the power again until you have taken the computer to an authorized service center.

Always make sure your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 computer and AC adaptor have adequate ventilation and are protected from overheating when the power is turned on or when an AC adaptor is connected to a power outlet (even if your computer is in Sleep mode). In this condition, observe the following:

Step 1. Never cover your computer or AC adaptor with any object.

Step 2. Never place your computer or AC adaptor near a heat source, such as an electric blanket or heater.

Step 3. Never cover or block the air vents including those located at the base of the computer.

Step 4. Always operate your computer on a hard flat surface. Using your computer on a carpet or other soft material can block the vents located at the base of the computer.

To turn on the TOSHIBA TECRA A11 computer:

Step 1. Make sure any external devices (such as the AC adaptor, if you plan to use AC power rather than battery power) are properly connected and ready.

Step 2. Check to ensure that all drives and slots are empty.

Step 3. Press and release the power button. The ON/OFF light glows green.

The preinstalled operating system will load automatically. When you turn on the computer for the first time, do not turn off the power again until the operating system has loaded completely.

When you turn on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 computer for the first time, do not turn off the power again until the operating system has loaded completely.

The names of windows displayed, and the order in which windows appear, may vary according to your software setup choices.

Product registration for the TOSHIBA TECRA A11 is strongly recommended. Product registration can be completed by either visiting the Toshiba Web site or by clicking Start, All Programs, My Toshiba, and then Toshiba Registration. To register online, you must be connected to the Internet.

The following internal storage drive recovery options are available for the TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

To recover the original factory image using the utilities on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 computer’s internal storage drive:

Step 1. Make sure the computer is turned off.

Step 2. Press and hold the 0 (zero) key on your keyboard while powering on the computer.

Step 3. If your system offers a choice of Windows® 7 32-bit or 64-bit operating system, select one at this time. If not, skip to step 4.

Step 4. A warning screen appears, stating that when the recovery is executed all data will be deleted and rewritten. Click Yes to continue.

Step 5. When the Toshiba Recovery Wizard opens and the Selecting a process screen displays, select Recovery of Factory Default Software and then click Next.

Step 6. The Recovery of Factory Default Software screen appears. Select Recover to out-of-box state.

Step 7. Click Next. A confirmation message displays reminding you that all data will be lost during the recovery process. Be sure to save your work to external media before proceeding.

Step 8. Click Next to begin the recovery. When the process is complete, a message displays indicating that the internal storage drive has been recovered.

Step 9. Press any key on the keyboard to restart the computer.

To resize and recover the C: drive using the utilities on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 computer’s internal storage drive:

Step 1. Make sure the computer is turned off.

Step 2. Press and hold the 0 (zero) key on your keyboard while powering on the computer.

Step 3. If your system offers a choice of Windows® 7 32-bit or 64-bit operating system, select one at this time. If not, skip to step 4.

Step 4. A warning screen appears, stating that when the recovery is executed all data will be deleted and rewritten. Click Yes to continue.

Step 5. When the Toshiba Recovery Wizard opens and the Selecting a process screen displays, select Recovery of Factory Default Software and then click Next.

Step 6. The Recovery of Factory Default Software screen appears. Select Recover to a custom size partition.

Step 7. Use the on-screen arrow buttons in The size of drive C: field to set the partition size.

Step 8. Click Next. A confirmation message displays reminding you that all data will be lost during the recovery process. Be sure to save your work to external media before proceeding.

Step 9. Click Next to begin the recovery. When the process is complete, a message displays indicating that the C: drive has been recovered.

Step 10. Press any key on the keyboard to restart the computer.

To close a program that has stopped responding on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

Step 1. Press Ctrl, Alt, and Del simultaneously (once), then click Start Task Manager. The Windows® Task Manager window appears.

Step 2. Click the Applications tab. If a program has stopped responding, the words “not responding” appear beside its name in the list.

Step 3. Select the program you want to close, then click End Task. Closing the failed program should allow you to continue working. If it does not, continue with the next step.

Step 4. Close the remaining programs one by one by selecting the program name, then End Task. Closing all programs should allow you to continue working. If it does not, power off your computer and then restart it.

If the TOSHIBA TECRA A11 computer will not start, check the following:

Step 1. Make sure you attached the AC adaptor and power cord/cable properly or installed a charged battery.

Step 2. Press and hold the power button for at least 10 seconds.

Step 3. If you are using the AC adaptor, check that the wall outlet is working by plugging in another device, such as a lamp.

Step 4. Verify that the computer is on by looking at the ON/OFF indicator. If the indicator is glowing, the computer is on. Also, try turning the computer off and then on.

Step 5. If you are using an AC adaptor, verify that the computer is receiving power from the external power source by looking at the AC power light. If the indicator is glowing, the computer is connected to a live external power source.

If the AC power light on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 is blinking, try the following steps:

Step 1. Cut off power to the computer by disconnecting the AC adaptor and removing the battery. The error condition will be interrupted, and the AC power light will stop flashing.

Step 2. Put the battery back into the computer. Do not connect the AC adaptor. Try turning the computer on again. If the computer starts normally, the AC adaptor may be defective and will need to be replaced. If the AC power light starts flashing, remove the battery, and continue with the steps below.

Step 3. Connect the AC adaptor to the computer. Leave the battery out of the computer. Try turning the computer on again. If the computer starts normally, the battery may need charging, may be depleted, or may be defective. Turn the computer on, insert the battery, and then leave the computer running for several hours, which will deliver a slow, steady “trickle-charge” to the battery. Once the battery has been trickle-charged, it may begin working correctly again. If the trickle-charging does not prove effective, visit the Toshiba Web site and see the Support Bulletin Step-Charging the computer’s battery.

Step 4. Connect the AC adaptor to a different power outlet, preferably in a different room. If the computer starts normally, there may be a problem with the AC outlet itself, or the voltage level available from it.

If the battery light on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 is blinking while the computer is on, this indicates a power mismatch. Do the following:

Step 1. Check the OUTPUT specifications on the AC adaptor (for example, DC 19V – 3.95A).

Step 2. Check the INPUT specifications on the bottom of the computer. The output specifications of the AC adaptor must match the input specifications of the computer.

Step 3. If the specifications do not match, locate and use the AC adaptor that shipped with your computer. If the specifications do match, contact Toshiba.

To run Error-checking on a drive of your TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

Step 1. Click Start, and then Computer.

Step 2. Right-click the drive you want to check.

Step 3. On the pop-up menu, click Properties. The drive’s Properties box appears.

Step 4. Click the Tools tab.

Step 5. Click the Check now… button. The Check Disk box appears.

Step 6. You can choose one or both options: Automatically fix file system errors or Scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors.

Step 7. Click Start. Error-checking tests and repairs the storage drive.

To adjust the display brightness on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 using the hot key:

Step 1. Press Fn + F6 simultaneously to decrease the screen brightness.

Step 2. Press Fn + F7 simultaneously to increase the screen brightness.

Selecting the corresponding TOSHIBA Card or pressing either hot key displays options where you can move the slider or press the appropriate hot key repeatedly to decrease or increase the display brightness.

To enable or disable the USB Sleep and Charge function on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11, use this utility. To enable this function, select the Enable USB Sleep and Charge check box in the utility. To disable this function, de-select the check box.

You can also control whether charging takes place when the computer is running on battery power by selecting or de-selecting the Enable under Battery Mode check box in the utility.

If the screen on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 is blank, try the following:

Step 1. Check if Display Auto Off may have gone into effect. Press any key to activate the screen.

Step 2. Check if you may have activated the instant password feature by pressing Fn and F1 simultaneously. If you have registered a password, press any key, type the password and press Enter. If no password is registered, press any key. The screen reactivates and allows you to continue working.

Step 3. If you are using the built-in screen, make sure the display priority is not set for an external monitor. To do this, press Fn and F5 simultaneously (once). If this does not correct the problem, press Fn and F5 simultaneously again to return the display priority to its previous setting.

To change the display output settings on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 using the display hot key (Fn + F5):

Step 1. Press Fn and F5 simultaneously.

Step 2. While holding down Fn, press F5 repeatedly until the setting you want takes effect. Briefly pause each time you press the F5 key to allow time for the display to change.

The hot key cycles through the settings in the following order (the last two options are available if an external monitor is connected):

• Built-in display only
• Built-in display and external monitor simultaneously
• External monitor only
• TV (or other external video device) only
• External monitor and TV simultaneously
• Built-in display and TV (or other external video device) simultaneously
• Built-in display and external monitor (extended desktop)
• Built-in display and TV (extended desktop)
• External monitor and TV (extended desktop)
• Swap-Switch primary display between internal display and external monitor when using extended desktop

To turn off your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 computer using the Shut down command:

Step 1. Click Start.

Step 2. Click the Shut down button in the lower-right corner of the Start menu. The computer closes all open programs, shuts down the operating system, and then turns off.

Factors to consider when choosing Sleep mode for the TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

• While in Sleep mode, the computer uses some main battery power.
• Because the state of the system is stored in memory, you will lose data if the main battery discharges completely while the computer is in Sleep mode.
• Restarting from Sleep takes less time and consumes less main battery power than restarting after turning off the computer using the Hibernation or Shut down commands.
• When starting up again, the computer returns to the mode in which you left it, including all open programs and files you were using.
• If the battery charge becomes critically low, the computer will try to enter Hibernation mode.

Factors to consider when choosing Hibernation mode for the TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

• While in Hibernation mode, the computer uses no main battery power.
• Because the state of the system is stored to the internal storage drive, no data is lost if the main battery discharges.
• Restarting from Hibernation takes less time and consumes less main battery power than restarting after turning off the computer using the Shut down command.
• Restarting from Hibernation takes a little more time and consumes more main battery power than restarting from Sleep.
• When starting up again, the computer returns to the state in which you left it, including all open programs and files you were using.

To enable or disable the eco power plan on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11, press the eco Utility™ button. Operating the computer with this power plan enabled reduces electrical power consumption by slightly lowering system performance.

To remove the battery from your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 computer:

Step 1. Save your work.

Step 2. Turn off the computer or place it in Hibernation mode according to the instructions in “Using and configuring Hibernation mode”.

Step 3. Unplug and remove any cables connected to the computer, including the AC adaptor.

Step 4. Close the display panel and turn the computer upside down.

Step 5. Slide the battery release lock to the unlocked position.

Step 6. Slide the battery release latch to release the battery.

Step 7. Pull the discharged battery out of the computer.

To insert a charged battery into your TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

Step 1. Wipe the terminals of the charged battery with a clean cloth to ensure a good connection.

Step 2. Insert the charged battery into the slot until the latch clicks. The battery pack has been designed so that you cannot install it with reverse polarity.

If the battery does not slide into the slot easily, move the battery release lock to the unlocked position and try again. Do not force the battery into position.

Step 3. Slide the battery release lock to the locked position.

Step 4. Turn the computer right side up.

Step 5. Reconnect any cables that were removed in step 3 of “Removing the battery from the computer”.

Step 6. Restart the computer.

To check the total memory recognized by your TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

Step 1. Click Start, Control Panel, System and Security, and then System.

Step 2. The System window appears. Installed memory (RAM) is displayed below the System heading.

If the computer does not recognize the memory configuration, turn off the computer and remove the memory module slot cover (complete steps 1-8 in “Installing a memory module”), and then check that the module is inserted completely into the socket and lined up squarely with the socket latches.

Memory modules on the TOSHIBA TECRA A11 can be installed in the memory module slots on the base of the computer. You will need a small Phillips screwdriver for this procedure.

Step 1. Complete steps 1–8 in “Installing a memory module” to shut down the computer and open the memory module slot cover.

Step 2. Remove the memory module slot cover.

Step 3. Place the screw and the cover in a safe place so that you can retrieve them later.

Step 4. Carefully remove the new memory module from its antistatic packaging, without touching its connector.

Step 5. Locate an empty memory module slot on the underside of the computer.

Step 6. Pick up the memory module by its sides, avoiding any contact with its connector. Position the module toward the socket, aligning the connector’s notch with the matching key in the socket.

Step 7. Firmly press the memory module into the memory slot’s socket at approximately a 30-degree angle (to the horizontal surface of the computer).

Step 8. Once the module’s connector is fully inserted into the socket, press downward on the top edge of the module to seat the module into the latches at the sides of the socket. These latches should “snap” into place securely with the corresponding cutouts in the side of the module. If the latches and cutouts do not line up correctly, repeat steps 12-13 (referring to the insertion steps).

Step 9. Replace the memory module slot cover and secure it using the screw.

Step 10. Re-insert the main battery. For more information on inserting the main battery, see “Inserting a charged battery”.

Step 11. Turn the computer right side up. Make sure to remove the soft cloth from the work surface before restarting the computer.

Step 12. Reconnect the cables.

Step 13. Restart the computer.

To remove a memory module from your TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

Step 1. Complete steps 1–8 in “Installing a memory module” to shut down the computer and open the memory module slot cover.

Step 2. Pull the latches away from the memory module. The memory module pops up slightly.

Step 3. Gently lift the memory module to a 30-degree angle and slide it out of the slot.

Step 4. Replace the memory module slot cover and secure it using the screw.

Step 5. Re-insert the main battery. For more information on inserting the main battery, see “Inserting a charged battery”.

Step 6. Turn the computer right side up. Make sure to remove the soft cloth from the work surface before restarting the computer.

Step 7. Reconnect the cables.

Step 8. Restart the computer.

To save files on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

Step 1. Click on the arrow in the upper-left corner of your Windows®-based application to display the drop-down menu, and then click Save.

If you are working with a document that already has a file name, this is all you need to do. If you created a new document, your program displays a Save As dialog box. Use this dialog box to specify where to store the document and to give it a file name.

Step 2. Choose the drive and folder where you want your file to be stored.

Step 3. Type a file name, then click Save.

To print a file on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

Step 1. If your printer is not on, turn it on now.

Step 2. Click on the arrow in the upper-left corner of your Windows®-based application to display the drop-down menu, and then click Print. The program displays a Print dialog box.

Step 3. Specify the print parameters. For example, the range of pages and number of copies to print.

Step 4. Click Print.

After restoring your internal storage drive on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11, check its status as follows:

Step 1. Click Start.

Step 2. Right-click Computer.

Step 3. Select Manage.

Step 4. Click Disk Management.

Step 5. Highlight the internal storage drive in the Volume list to display its status in the lower portion of the screen.

To reinstall drivers and applications on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

Step 1. Click Start, All Programs, My Toshiba, and then TOSHIBA Application Installer.

Step 2. Click Next.

Step 3. Click the item you want to install.

Step 4. Click Install, then follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation process.

To use an instant password on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11, press Fn + F1. To unlock your system, press any key or touch the pointing device and the Windows® Logon screen will appear. Select your user name and enter your password, if any.

To set a supervisor password on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

Step 1. Click Start, All Programs, TOSHIBA, Utilities, and then TOSHIBA Assist. The TOSHIBA Assist window appears.

Step 2. On the left side, click the Secure tab.

Step 3. Click the Supervisor Password icon. The Supervisor Password tab of the TOSHIBA Password Utility window appears.

Step 4. Click Set.

Step 5. Enter your password, and then enter it again to verify.

Step 6. Click Set.

Step 7. Click OK if you want to save the password to a text file on a diskette or media of your choice, or click Cancel to continue without saving the password to a text file.

Step 8. Shut down the system to complete the process.

To delete a supervisor password on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

Step 1. Click Start, All Programs, TOSHIBA, Utilities, and then TOSHIBA Assist. The TOSHIBA Assist window appears.

Step 2. On the left side, click the Secure tab.

Step 3. Click the Supervisor Password icon. The Supervisor Password tab of the TOSHIBA Password Utility window appears.

Step 4. Click Delete. A pop-up screen appears asking for a password.

Step 5. Enter the password, then click OK. A message displays confirming that the password has been deleted.

Step 6. Click OK to exit.

To register a password for the power-on password functions on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

Step 1. Click Start, All Programs, TOSHIBA, Utilities, and then TOSHIBA Assist. The TOSHIBA Assist window appears.

Step 2. On the left side, click the Secure tab.

Step 3. Click the User Password icon. The TOSHIBA Password Utility window appears.

Step 4. Click Set.

Step 5. Enter your password, and then enter it again to verify.

Step 6. Click Set.

Step 7. Click OK if you want to save the password to a text file on a diskette or media of your choice, or click Cancel to continue without saving the password to a text file.

Step 8. Click OK to exit.

To cancel the power-on password function on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

Step 1. Click Start, All Programs, TOSHIBA, Utilities, and then TOSHIBA Assist. The TOSHIBA Assist window appears.

Step 2. On the left side, click the Secure tab.

Step 3. Click the User Password icon.

Step 4. Click Delete.

Step 5. Follow the on-screen instructions to remove the user password. This will remove the user password only.

To use the TOSHIBA PC Diagnostic Tool utility on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

Step 1. Click Start, All Programs, TOSHIBA, Utilities, and then PC Diagnostic Tool, or click the PC Diagnostic Tool icon in the Protect & Fix tab of TOSHIBA Assist. The TOSHIBA PC Diagnostic Tool window appears.

Step 2. Click the Diagnostic Tool tab.

Step 3. Select the devices that you would like to test by clicking the check box that appears to the left of the device. Click the + (plus) and – (minus) symbols to expand and collapse the categories.

Step 4. Click Start Diagnostics when you are ready to begin the tests.

To use the TOSHIBA HDD Protection utility on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

Step 1. Click Start, All Programs, TOSHIBA, Utilities, and then HDD Protection Settings, or click the HDD Protection icon in the Protect & Fix tab of TOSHIBA Assist. The TOSHIBA HDD Protection Properties window appears.

Step 2. Select ON to enable HDD protection, or select OFF to disable HDD protection.

Step 3. Set the battery and AC power detection levels as desired.

Step 4. Click OK.

To access the Mouse utility settings on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

Step 1. Click Start, Control Panel, Hardware and Sound, and then under Devices and Printers, click Mouse, or click the Mouse icon in the Optimize tab of TOSHIBA Assist. The Mouse Properties screen appears.

Step 2. Adjust the settings as desired, then click OK.

To access TOSHIBA Hardware Setup on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

Click Start, All Programs, TOSHIBA, Utilities, and then HWSetup, or click the TOSHIBA Hardware Settings icon in the Optimize tab of TOSHIBA Assist. The TOSHIBA HWSetup screen appears.

To set the Power Plan on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 using a hot key:

Step 1. Press Fn and F2 simultaneously to display the Power Plan hot key card.

Step 2. While continuing to press Fn, press F2 until you select the desired Power Plan. The Power Plan options are: eco and Balanced.

Step 3. Release the Fn key. The hot key card disappears. You are now in the selected mode.

To launch an application using the Application Cards on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

Step 1. Press and hold the Fn key. The TOSHIBA Cards display at the top of the screen.

Step 2. Click the “stacked” card on the far right of the display. The Application Cards appear, and the Hot Key Cards are stacked under the Card on the far left.

Step 3. Click the Card for the application Card to appear.

Step 4. Click the full-size Card to launch the application.

This TOSHIBA Card or hot key enables/disables volume mute on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 computer. When volume mute is enabled, no sound will come from the speakers or headphones. Selecting this Card or pressing the hot key displays the following options:

• To enable mute, select the mute icon.
• To disable mute, select the unmute icon.

The Fn + F1 hot key function on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 activates instant security. The user logon screen will appear and a user with a valid account will need to log back on to gain access to the computer.

To enable Sleep mode on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 using the Fn + F3 hot key, select the Sleep option when presented with the Sleep options display.

The Zoom (Display resolution) TOSHIBA Card or hot key on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 switches screen resolution. Selecting this Card or pressing the hot key displays the following options for cycling through screen resolutions.

To zoom out, press Fn + the key labeled with an exclamation mark (!). This hot key turns the TOSHIBA Zooming Utility to zoom out.

To zoom in, press Fn + the key labeled with the letter ‘a’ and the number 2. This hot key turns the TOSHIBA Zooming Utility to zoom in.

If your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 computer starts but when you press a key nothing happens, verify that the active program accepts text input. Try clicking your mouse on an area where you can type text and try typing again.

Your computer may be in Sleep mode and have a software or resource conflict. To clear the condition, press Ctrl, Alt, and Del simultaneously. Then shut down the computer via software, or follow the steps if your program stops responding (see “Problems that are easy to fix”).

If the disc will not come out of the optical disc drive when you click the eject button on the screen of your TOSHIBA TECRA A11, press the eject button on the optical disc drive itself. For additional information see “You press the disc eject button, but the drive tray does not slide out.”

If no sound is coming from the speakers of your TOSHIBA TECRA A11, take the following actions:

Step 1. Adjust the volume control.

Step 2. Try pressing Fn + Esc to see if volume mute is disabled.

Step 3. Check that the volume control on the computer is turned up.

Step 4. If you are using external headphones or speakers, check that they are securely connected to your computer.

To check the ExpressCard® status on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 if the slot appears dead:

Step 1. Click Start, Control Panel, System and Security, and then under System, click Device Manager.

Step 2. Double-click the appropriate ExpressCard, which will be listed under one of the categories shown, for example: Disk drives, Network adapters, Other, etc. The operating system displays your ExpressCard’s Properties dialog box, which contains information about your ExpressCard configuration and status.

If the ExpressCard® causes the system to hang on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

Step 1. If the ExpressCard® causes the system to hang, hold down the ON/OFF button until the computer shuts down (approximately 10 seconds).

Step 2. Restart the computer and press the F8 key immediately after pressing the ON/OFF button.

Step 3. From the menu, select Safe Mode.

Step 4. After the computer starts, click Start, Control Panel, System and Security, and then under System, click Device Manager.

Step 5. Look for an item with a yellow shield with an exclamation mark in it. This indicates there is a resource conflict. Do one of the following:

• If there is a resource conflict, right-click the item marked with the yellow exclamation point and select Uninstall from the menu, and then proceed to step 6.
• If no resource conflict is indicated, contact the card manufacturer for additional troubleshooting assistance.

Step 6. Click OK to confirm the uninstall.

Step 7. In the Device Manager window, click the Action menu and select Scan for Hardware changes.

Step 8. Restart the computer normally.

Step 9. If the issue is not resolved, contact the card manufacturer for additional troubleshooting assistance.

To safely remove an ExpressCard® from your TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

Step 1. Prepare the card for removal by clicking on the Show hidden icons button ( ), if necessary, in the notification area and then selecting the Safely Remove Hardware and Eject Media icon.

Step 2. Click Eject [device name] for the device you want to remove. The Safe To Remove Hardware message appears.

Step 3. Remove the device.

To check the status of the Wi-Fi adapter using Device Manager on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11, access the Device Manager by clicking Start, Control Panel, System and Security, and then System. Carefully note any error messages—these will be very helpful if you should confer with a support technician at a later time.

If the printer on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 will not print, check the following:

Step 1. Check that the printer is connected to a working power outlet, turned on and ready (on line).

Step 2. Check that the printer has plenty of paper. Some printers will not start printing when there are just two or three sheets of paper left in the tray.

Step 3. Make sure the printer cable is firmly attached to the computer and the printer.

Step 4. Run the printer’s self-test to check for any problem with the printer itself.

Step 5. Make sure you installed the proper printer drivers as shown in “Setting up a printer” or in the instructions that came with the printer.

Step 6. Try printing another file. For example, you could create and attempt to print a short test file using Notepad. If a Notepad file prints correctly, the problem may be in your original file.

Step 7. If you cannot resolve the problem, contact the printer’s manufacturer.

If the modem on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 will not receive or transmit properly, check the following:

Step 1. Make sure the cable from the modem to the telephone line is firmly connected to the computer’s modem port and the telephone line jack.

Step 2. Check the communications parameters (baud rate, parity, data length and stop bits) specified in the communications program. It should be set up to transmit at 300, 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600, 14400, 28800, 33600 bps (bits per second) or higher.

If the modem on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 is on, set up properly but still does not transmit or receive data, check the following:

Step 1. Make sure the line has a dial tone. Connect a telephone handset to the line to check this.

Step 2. The other system may be busy or off line. Try making a test transmission to someone else.

To troubleshoot wireless networking problems on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

Step 1. If your computer is equipped with an internal Wi-Fi® adapter, verify that the Wireless antenna ON/OFF switch is ON (the wireless indicator light will be lit).

Step 2. Verify that your computer can detect access points or routers. If it can detect a Wi-Fi® access point or router then it may be a configuration issue.

Step 3. Verify that signal strength is good using the utility provided with the Wi-Fi® adapter.

Step 4. If another computer is on the same network, verify that it has network access, and can connect to the Internet. If, for example, the other computer cannot browse to a public Web site, the ISP’s (Internet Service Provider) service may be disrupted.

Step 5. Verify that the Service Set Identifier (SSID), or network name, is correct—i.e., that it matches the SSID assigned to the access point you are attempting to connect through. SSIDs are case-sensitive.

Step 6. Check the Windows® Control Panel’s Device Manager to verify that the Wi-Fi® adapter is recognized by the Windows® operating system, and that the driver is loaded. To access the Device Manager, click Start, Control Panel, System and Security, and then System.

To use IPCONFIG to verify that the computer on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 has a useful IP address:

Step 1. Click Start to open the Start menu.

Step 2. Type Cmd in the Search programs and files field.

Step 3. Enter IPCONFIG /ALL and press Enter. The IP address for each active network adapter will be displayed.

If you experience a problem playing DVDs on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11, try the following steps for general problems playing a DVD title:

Step 1. Verify that the disc is in a format that the drive supports.

Step 2. Ensure that the disc is properly inserted in the drive tray.

Step 3. Use the DVD Player software that came with your computer to view DVD movies.

Step 4. Clean the disc and try again.

To change the setting for when to turn off the display while watching a DVD-ROM movie or title on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

Step 1. Click Start, Control Panel, System and Security, and then Power Options.

Step 2. Click Choose when to turn off the display in the left pane.

Step 3. To turn off the display, select Never in the drop-down lists.

Step 4. Click Save changes.

To disable the screen saver if it runs while you are watching a movie or title on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

Step 1. Right-click on the desktop and click Personalize in the menu.

Step 2. Click Screen Saver in the lower-right corner of the window.

Step 3. Select None from the Screen saver drop-down list.

Step 4. Click OK.

To check a device’s properties on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

Step 1. Click Start, Control Panel, System and Security, and then under System, click Device Manager.

Step 2. To view the device(s) installed, double-click the device type.

Step 3. To view the properties, double-click the device.

The operating system displays the device Properties dialog box, which may include the General tab (basic information), Resources tab (lists resources assigned), or Driver tab (displays drivers and options for updating/rolling back the driver).

To change the display properties on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 if the screen does not look correct:

Step 1. Right-click in a blank area of the Windows® desktop.

Step 2. Click Personalize, and then Display.

Step 3. Adjust the screen resolution and/or color quality.

Step 4. Click OK.

To re-establish your Windows® configuration on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 using a saved restore point:

Step 1. Click Start, All Programs, Accessories, System Tools, and then System Restore.

Step 2. Select Recommended restore or Choose a different restore point, and then click Next. The timestamp and description of each restore point is displayed.

Step 3. If you selected Choose a different restore point in step 2, select the restore point you want to use, and then click Next.

Step 4. Verify that the restore point you selected is the correct one. If it is not, click Back to return to the previous step.

Step 5. Close all programs and save all open files.

Step 6. Click Finish, and then Yes to begin the system restore. Your Windows® operating system configuration will now be restored to the state it was in when the chosen restore point was created, and then the computer will be automatically restarted.

General tips for installing hardware and software on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

• Create a restore point (refer to “Saving system configuration with restore points”). Before installing anything, use the System Restore utility to set a restore point. If anything goes wrong, you will then be able to easily restore the Windows® operating system to the state it was in prior to the installation, undoing any changes that the installation process introduced.
• Back up your critical data (see “Backing up your data or your entire computer with the Windows® operating system”).
• Have your back up DVD(s) on hand in case you need any files from them.
• Do not guess—follow directions carefully! It is often necessary to run an installation utility first—before connecting a new hardware item to the computer. If the device is connected first, it may be very difficult to complete the installation successfully. Always carefully follow the installation instructions that accompany the hardware or software.
• Restart the Windows® operating system. Always restart the Windows® operating system after each installation, even if the installation utility does not prompt you to do so. This will ensure that the installation is completed, and will clean up anything that the installation utility left behind.
• Do one installation at a time. If you have several new items to add to your computer system, install just one at a time, creating restore points immediately before each successive installation. This will make it much easier to determine the origin of any new problems. For best results, follow this sequence: Back up critical data; Create a restore point; Install one item of hardware or software; Restart the Windows® operating system; Use the new hardware or software for a while, noting any new problems. Make sure that your critical applications are working correctly, and verify that important devices are still functioning. For each additional hardware or software item, repeat these steps, starting at step 1 if any of your critical data has changed, or starting at step 2 if no critical data has changed.

The available hot key functions on the TOSHIBA TECRA A11 are:

• Mute
• Lock (Instant security)
• Power Plan
• Sleep
• Hibernation
• Output (Display switch)
• Brightness control
• Wireless
• TouchPad
• Zoom (Display resolution)

To use the Card Case feature on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

Step 1. Click Start, All Programs, TOSHIBA, Utilities, and then Settings for Flash Cards.

Step 2. Click the Open cards case button.

Step 3. The Card Case displays two rows of Cards. Cards that appear solid (not transparent) in the bottom row are enabled and can be selected when the Application Cards are displayed. The top row contains all of the disabled cards.

Step 4. To enable a card, drag it from the top row to the bottom row. To disable the card, drag it from the bottom row to the top row.

Step 5. To close the Card Case, click the close icon in the top corner of the screen.

To use TOSHIBA Accessibility on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

Step 1. Click Start, All Programs, TOSHIBA, Utilities, and then Accessibility, or click the Accessibility icon in the Optimize tab of TOSHIBA Assist. The TOSHIBA Accessibility window appears.

Step 2. Check the Use Fn-StickyKey box.

Step 3. Put a check mark next to the desired option.

Step 4. Click OK.

Device Manager on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 provides a way to check and change the configuration of a device. Changing the default settings using Device Manager can cause other conflicts that make one or more devices unusable. Device Manager is a configuration tool for advanced users who understand configuration parameters and the ramifications of changing them.

To check a device’s properties on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

Step 1. Click Start, Control Panel, System and Security, and then under System, click Device Manager.

Step 2. To view the device(s) installed, double-click the device type.

Step 3. To view the properties, double-click the device.

The operating system displays the device Properties dialog box, which provides an array of tabs. They may include:

• The General tab, which provides basic information about the device.
• The Resources tab, which lists resources assigned to the device. This tab does not appear if the device is not using resources.
• The Driver tab, which displays the drivers being used by the device. This tab also provides options for updating the driver or rolling back the driver in case the new version is causing a problem.

If your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 has memory problems, it is worthwhile checking for these first:

Step 1. Click Start, and then click the Shut down button in the lower-right corner of the Start menu. The computer shuts down completely.

Step 2. Remove the memory module, following the instructions in “Removing a memory module”.

Step 3. Reinstall the memory module, following the instructions in “Installing a memory module”, and making sure the module is seated properly.

Step 4. Check for the error again.

Step 5. If the error recurs, remove the memory module entirely and check for the error again. If removing the memory module eliminates the error, the memory module may be faulty. If the error recurs without the memory module installed, the error is not caused by the memory module.

If the AC adaptor and power cord/cable on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 work correctly, but the battery will not charge, try the following:

Step 1. The battery does not charge while the computer is consuming full power. Try turning off the computer.

Step 2. The battery may not be inserted correctly in the computer. Turn off the computer, remove the battery, clean the contacts with a soft dry cloth (if necessary) and replace the battery. See “Removing the battery from the computer”.

Step 3. The battery may be too hot or too cold to charge properly. If you think this is the probable cause, let the battery reach room temperature and try again.

Step 4. If the battery has completely discharged, it will not begin charging immediately. Leave the AC adaptor and power cord/cable connected, wait 20 minutes and see if the battery is charging.

Step 5. If the battery light is glowing after 20 minutes, let the computer continue charging the battery for at least another 20 minutes before you turn on the computer.

Step 6. If the battery light does not glow after 20 minutes, the battery may have reached the end of its useful life. Try replacing it.

If typing on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 produces unexpected characters:

Step 1. A keypad overlay may be on. If the numlock light or cursor control overlay light is on, press Fn + F10 to turn off the cursor control overlay light, or Fn + F11 to turn off the numlock light.

Step 2. If the problem occurs when both the keypad overlays are off, make sure the software you are using is not remapping the keyboard. Refer to the software documentation and check that the program does not assign different meanings to any of the keys.

If you have connected an external keyboard to your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 and the operating system displays one or more keyboard error messages:

Step 1. You may need to update your keyboard driver. Refer to the documentation that came with the keyboard or to the keyboard manufacturer’s Web site.

Step 2. The keyboard you connected may be defective or incompatible with the computer. Try using a different make of keyboard.

If you are using an external monitor with your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 and it is not working, check the following:

• Check that the monitor is turned on.
• Check that the monitor’s power cord/cable is firmly plugged into a working power outlet.
• Check that the cable connecting the external monitor to the computer is firmly attached.
• Try adjusting the contrast and brightness controls on the external monitor.
• Press Fn and F5 simultaneously to make sure the display priority is not set for the built-in screen.

You can change the display settings on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 by clicking a blank area of the desktop with the secondary control button, then clicking Personalize. This opens the Personalization window. Choose a theme for your desktop background, under Colors, Sounds, and Screen Saver, or change the settings for each of these components individually. Click Display and then Change display settings to choose the screen resolution.

If a message displays on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 saying there is a problem with your display settings and that the adapter type is incorrect or the current settings do not work with your hardware, you should reduce the size of the color palette to one that is supported by the computer’s internal display.

To change the display properties:

Step 1. Right-click in a blank area of the Windows® desktop.

Step 2. Click Personalize, and then Display.

Step 3. Adjust the screen resolution and/or color quality.

Step 4. Click OK.

If the display mode is set to Simultaneous and the external display device on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 does not work, make sure the external monitor is capable of displaying at resolutions of 800 x 600 or higher. Devices that do not support this resolution will only work in Internal/External mode, and not simultaneous mode.

If some programs run correctly on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 but others do not, this is probably a configuration problem. If a program does not run properly, refer to its documentation and check that the hardware configuration meets its needs.

If a diskette will not go into the optional external diskette drive of your TOSHIBA TECRA A11, check the following:

• You may already have a diskette in the drive. Make sure the drive is empty.
• You may be inserting the diskette incorrectly. Hold the diskette with the hub side facing down, and insert it so that the metal head window cover goes into the drive first.
• The metal cover or a loose label may be obstructing the path into the drive. Carefully inspect the diskette. If the metal cover is loose, replace the diskette. If the label is loose, replace the label and try inserting the diskette again.

If the optical disc drive on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 cannot access a disc, check the following:

Step 1. If the optical disc drive is an external drive, make sure that the drive’s cable is properly connected to the computer.

Step 2. Make sure the tray that holds the optical disc is closed properly. Press gently until it clicks into place.

Step 3. Open the tray and remove the disc. Make sure the tray is clean. Any dirt or foreign object can interfere with the laser beam.

Step 4. Examine the disc to see if it is dirty. If necessary, wipe it with a clean cloth dipped in water or a neutral cleaner.

Step 5. Replace the disc in the tray. Make sure that the disc is lying flat, label side up. Close the tray carefully, making sure it has shut completely.

If the disc eject button on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 optical disc drive does not make the drive tray slide out, check the following:

Step 1. Make sure the computer is connected to a power source and turned on. The optical disc drive eject mechanism requires power to operate.

Step 2. Make sure a program is not accessing the drive and preventing it from ejecting.

Step 3. If you need to remove a disc and cannot turn on the computer (for example, if the battery is completely discharged), use a narrow object, such as a straightened paper clip, to press the manual eject button. This button is in the small hole next to the optical disc drive eject button on the face of the optical disc drive tray. Never use a pencil to press the manual eject button. Pencil lead can break off inside the computer and damage it.

If some discs run correctly but others do not in the optical disc drive of your TOSHIBA TECRA A11, check the following:

Step 1. Check that the type of disc you are using is compatible with your optical disc drive. For more information regarding supported optical media formats, refer to the complete detail specifications for your computer.

Step 2. If the problem is with an optical data disc, refer to the software’s documentation and check that the hardware configuration meets the program’s needs.

A loud, high-pitched noise from the speakers on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 is caused by feedback between the microphone and the speakers. It occurs in any sound system when input from a microphone is fed to the speakers and the speaker volume is too loud. Adjust the volume control.

If an ExpressCard® on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 is not recognized by the system, refer to the ExpressCard® documentation. Removing a malfunctioning card and reinstalling it can correct many problems.

The checklist for an ExpressCard® error on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 includes:

• Make sure the card is inserted properly into the slot.
• Make sure all cables are securely connected.
• Occasionally a defective ExpressCard® slips through quality control. If another computer with a ExpressCard slot is available, try the card in that machine. If the card malfunctions again, it may be defective.

To safely remove an ExpressCard® before hot swapping on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

Step 1. Prepare the card for removal by clicking on the Show hidden icons button ( ), if necessary, in the notification area and then selecting the Safely Remove Hardware and Eject Media icon.

Step 2. Click Eject [device name] for the device you want to remove. The Safe To Remove Hardware message appears.

Step 3. Remove the device.

Never swap modules when the computer is in Hibernation or Sleep mode. This is known as “warm swapping” and is not supported.

If an ExpressCard® error occurs on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11, try the following:

Step 1. Reinsert the card to make sure it is properly connected.

Step 2. If the card is attached to an external device, check that the connection is secure.

Step 3. Refer to the card’s documentation, which should contain a troubleshooting section.

To attach an external monitor or projector to your TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

Step 1. Read the directions that came with the monitor to see if you first need to install new software.

Step 2. Connect the monitor’s video cable to the RGB (monitor) port on the back of the computer.

Step 3. Connect the device’s power cable to a live electrical outlet.

Step 4. Turn on the external device. Your computer will automatically detect the external display device.

The quickest way to change the display output settings on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 is to use the display hot key (Fn + F5). Press Fn and F5 simultaneously. While holding down Fn, press F5 repeatedly until the setting you want takes effect. Briefly pause each time you press the F5 key to allow time for the display to change. This hot key cycles through the settings in the following order (the last two options are available if an external monitor is connected):

• Built-in display only
• Built-in display and external monitor simultaneously
• External monitor only
• TV (or other external video device) only
• External monitor and TV simultaneously
• Built-in display and TV (or other external video device) simultaneously
• Built-in display and external monitor (extended desktop)
• Built-in display and TV (extended desktop)
• External monitor and TV (extended desktop)
• Swap-Switch primary display between internal display and external monitor when using extended desktop

To obtain the best picture quality from your television (or other video display device) on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11, you may need to adjust the video settings. See the video device documentation for additional configuration steps.

If you prefer to use an external keyboard with your TOSHIBA TECRA A11, you can attach one to your computer. The computer’s USB ports support most USB-compatible keyboards.

To connect a printer to your TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

Step 1. Connect the printer cable to the printer and then connect the other end to one of the computer’s USB ports.

Step 2. Plug the printer’s power cable into a live AC outlet.

If your printer does not support Plug and Play, follow the steps to set it up for the first time. You only need to set up the printer once.

Step 1. Click Start, Control Panel, Hardware and Sound, and then under Devices and Printers, click Add a printer. The Add Printer Wizard appears.

Step 2. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up your printer.

You may record sounds using the computer’s internal microphone (available on certain models) or by connecting an optional external microphone to your TOSHIBA TECRA A11.

To record sounds using a microphone:

Step 1. If you want to use an external microphone, connect it to the computer.

Step 2. Click Start, All Programs, Accessories, and then Sound Recorder.

Step 3. Click the Start Recording button.

Step 4. Speak normally into the microphone.

Step 5. When you have finished recording, click the Stop Recording button. The Save As dialog box appears.

Step 6. To save the file, type a file name, and then click Save.

To play back sound files through external speakers or headphones on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

Step 1. Locate the headphone jack on the computer.

Step 2. Using any necessary adapters, plug the cable from the headphones or external speakers into the headphone jack. The headphone jack requires a 16-ohm stereo mini connector.

To adjust the volume:

• For external speakers, use the volume controls on each speaker.
• For headphones, use the computer’s volume control.

To insert an ExpressCard® into your TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

Step 1. Locate the ExpressCard slot on the side of the computer. You may first need to remove the card slot protector before you can insert a card.

Step 2. Insert the ExpressCard.

Step 3. When the card is almost all the way into the slot, push firmly but gently to ensure a firm connection with the computer. Do not force the card into position.

To remove an ExpressCard® from your TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

Step 1. Prepare the card for removal by clicking on the Show hidden icons button ( ), if necessary, in the notification area and then selecting the Safely Remove Hardware and Eject Media icon.

Step 2. Select the card or device you want to remove. If the system is unable to prepare the card for safe removal, a message will tell you to try again later. If the card can be removed now, the system displays Safe to Remove Hardware.

Step 3. Locate the ExpressCard® eject button.

Step 4. Press the ExpressCard eject button once to pop it out slightly, and push it in to remove the ExpressCard. The ExpressCard ejects slightly from the slot.

Step 5. Grasp the edges of the ExpressCard and slide it out of the slot.

The following instructions apply to all types of supported media devices for inserting memory media into the Memory card reader on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

Step 1. Turn the media so that the contacts (metal areas) are face down.

Step 2. Push the media into the adapter until it locks in place.

To remove memory media from the Memory card reader on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

Step 1. Prepare the card for removal by clicking on the Show hidden icons button ( ), if necessary, in the notification area and then selecting the Safely Remove Hardware and Eject Media icon. If the system is unable to prepare the media for safe removal, a message will tell you to try again later. If the media can be removed now, the system displays Safe to Remove Hardware.

Step 2. Gently press the card inward to release it. The card pops out slightly.

Step 3. Grasp the card and pull it straight out.

To check the current channel of operation for wireless LAN on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 to remain in conformance with European spectrum usage laws, you should use the wireless LAN utility to check the current channel of operation. If operation is occurring outside of the allowable frequencies as listed in the documentation, the user must cease operating the Wireless LAN at that location and consult the local technical support staff responsible for the wireless network.

The following restrictions apply to the 5 GHz bands for Wireless LAN operation in European Community countries on the TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

• The 5 GHz Turbo mode feature is not allowed for operation in any European Community country.
• This device must not be operated in ad-hoc mode using channels in the 5 GHz bands in the European Community. Ad-hoc mode provides a direct communication between two client devices without a Wireless LAN Access Point.
• This device must be used with Access Points that have employed and activated a radar detection feature required for European Community operation in the 5 GHz bands. This device will operate under the control of the Access Point in order to avoid operating on a channel occupied by any radar system in the area. The presence of nearby radar operation may result in temporary interruption of operation of this device. The Access Point’s radar detection feature will automatically restart operation on a channel free of radar.

To start ConfigFree® on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11, be sure the computer has a wired or wireless connection. Then perform any of the following steps:

• Click Start, All Programs, TOSHIBA, ConfigFree, and then click the desired utility.
• Double-click the ConfigFree icon in the notification area.
• Click the ConfigFree icon in the notification area, and then click the desired utility.

To create a profile in ConfigFree for your TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

Step 1. Click the ConfigFree icon in the notification area.

Step 2. Move the pointer to Profiles.

Step 3. Click Open Settings. The ConfigFree Profile Settings window appears.

Step 4. Click Add to start the Create Profile Wizard.

The following settings can be saved (or “captured”) in a profile using Profile Settings in ConfigFree on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

• Internet settings—includes LAN settings (proxy server settings) and the address of a home page that opens automatically when Internet Explorer® starts.
• Devices—lets you enable or disable settings of wired and wireless network devices, infrared devices, and set the power status of Bluetooth® antennas.
• TCP/IP settings—includes DHCP, IP address, subnet mask, default gateway, DNS server, and WINS server settings.
• Personal firewall settings for Internet connections.
• Bluetooth® Security Level (for example, high or medium).
• Enable UAC (User Account Control) setting.

Typical problems and solutions for the optical disc drive on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

You cannot access a disc in the drive:

• If the optical disc drive is an external drive, make sure that the drive’s cable is properly connected to the computer.
• Make sure the tray that holds the optical disc is closed properly. Press gently until it clicks into place.
• Open the tray and remove the disc. Make sure the tray is clean. Any dirt or foreign object can interfere with the laser beam.
• Examine the disc to see if it is dirty. If necessary, wipe it with a clean cloth dipped in water or a neutral cleaner.
• Replace the disc in the tray. Make sure that the disc is lying flat, label side up. Close the tray carefully, making sure it has shut completely.

You press the disc eject button, but the drive tray does not slide out:

• Make sure the computer is connected to a power source and turned on. The optical disc drive eject mechanism requires power to operate.
• Make sure a program is not accessing the drive and preventing it from ejecting.
• If you need to remove a disc and cannot turn on the computer (for example, if the battery is completely discharged), use a narrow object, such as a straightened paper clip, to press the manual eject button. This button is in the small hole next to the optical disc drive eject button on the face of the optical disc drive tray. Never use a pencil to press the manual eject button. Pencil lead can break off inside the computer and damage it.

Some discs run correctly but others do not:

• Check that the type of disc you are using is compatible with your optical disc drive. For more information regarding supported optical media formats, refer to the complete detail specifications for your computer.
• If the problem is with an optical data disc, refer to the software’s documentation and check that the hardware configuration meets the program’s needs.

To care for optical discs used with your TOSHIBA TECRA A11:

• Store your discs in their original containers to protect them from scratches and keep them clean.
• Do not bend a disc or place heavy objects on top of it.
• Do not apply a label to, or otherwise mar the surface of, a disc.
• Hold a disc by its outside edge. Fingerprints on the surface can prevent the optical disc drive from reading the data properly.
• Do not expose discs to direct sunlight or extreme heat or cold.
• To clean a disc that is dirty, wipe it with a clean, dry cloth. The most efficient method to clean it is to start from the center of the disc and wipe toward the outward edge (not in a circle). If necessary, moisten the cloth with water or a neutral cleaner (not benzine or rubbing alcohol). Let the disc dry completely before inserting it in the drive.

If the hard disk drive on your TOSHIBA TECRA A11 seems very slow because your files may have become fragmented, run Disk Defragmenter. To do this, click Start, All Programs, Accessories, System Tools, and then Disk Defragmenter. After it opens, click Defragment disk.