COMPAQ COMPUTER CORPORATION SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR TECHNICAL OR
EDITORIAL ERRORS OR OMISSIONS CONTAINED HEREIN; NOR FOR INCIDENTAL
OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES RESULTING FROM THE FURNISHING, PERFOR-
MANCE, OR USE OF THIS MATERIAL.
This document contains information protected by copyright. No part of this document may be
photocopied or reproduced in any form without prior written consent from Compaq Computer
Corporation.
2000 Compaq Computer Corporation. All rights reserved.
COMPAQ, AERO and the Compaq logo are registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
Microsoft, ActiveSync, Outlook, Pocket Outlook, Expedia, AutoRoute Express, MapPoint, Win-
dows, Windows NT, and the Windows logo are either registered trademarks or trademarks of
Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. Microsoft products are licensed
to OEMs by Microsoft Licensing, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Microsoft Corporation.
Product names mentioned herein are may be trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their
respective companies.
Aero 1500/2100 Pocket PC Reference Guide
Aero 1500/2100 Pocket PC
First Edition. March 2000.
XXXXXX-XXX
-2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Chapter 1: Getting Started ____________________________________ 1
Welcome _____________________________________________________ 1
Where to Find Information _________________________________________ 1
Customer Registration ____________________________________________ 2
How to Upgrade your Aero _________________________________________ 2
Symbols and Conventions _________________________________________ 9
Chapter 2: Basic Skills ______________________________________ 1
Locating Front Panel Controls _______________________________________ 1
Top Edge Components ____________________________________________ 3
Left Side Components ____________________________________________ 4
Bottom and Right Side Components __________________________________ 5
Back Side Components ___________________________________________ 6
Installing Batteries _______________________________________________ 7
Backup Battery _________________________________________________ 9
Cradle and AC Adapter ___________________________________________ 12
Using the Stylus ________________________________________________ 14
Today Screen __________________________________________________ 14
Programs______________________________________________________ 16
Navigation Bar and Command Bar ___________________________________ 17
Pop-up Menus __________________________________________________ 18
Notifications ___________________________________________________ 19
Enter Information on Your Aero _____________________________________ 19
Find Information ________________________________________________ 26
Customize Your Aero _____________________________________________ 26
Using the QUtilities and Q Menu _____________________________________ 30
Table of Contents I-3
Backup/Restore ________________________________________________ 36
Using the CompactFlash Card Slot ___________________________________ 38
Chapter 3: Microsoft ActiveSync _______________________________ 1
Chapter 4: Microsoft Pocket Outlook ____________________________ 1
Calendar: Scheduling Appointments and Meetings _______________________ 1
Contacts: Tracking Friends and Colleagues _____________________________ 4
Tasks: Keeping a To Do List ________________________________________ 7
Notes: Capturing Thoughts and Ideas _________________________________ 9
Inbox: Sending and Receiving E-mail Messages__________________________ 10
Chapter 5: Companion Programs _______________________________ 1
Pocket Word ___________________________________________________ 1
Pocket Excel ___________________________________________________ 5
Microsoft Money ________________________________________________ 7
Windows Media Player for Pocket PC _________________________________ 11
Microsoft Reader ________________________________________________ 14
Pocket Streets _________________________________________________ 17
Picture Viewer __________________________________________________ 18
Chapter 6: Pocket Internet Explorer _____________________________ 1
The Mobile Favorites Folder ________________________________________ 1
Favorite Links __________________________________________________ 1
Mobile Favorites_________________________________________________ 1
Channels _____________________________________________________ 3
Use Pocket Internet Explorer ________________________________________ 4
Chapter 7: Getting Connected __________________________________ 1
Transfer Items Using Infrared _______________________________________ 1
I-4 Table of Contents
Connect to an ISP________________________________________________ 2
Connect to Your Network __________________________________________ 4
End a Connection ________________________________________________ 6
Connect Directly to an E-mail Server _________________________________ 6
Get Help on Connecting ___________________________________________ 7
Chapter 8: Tips and Troubleshooting _____________________________ 1
Reset the Aero and clear memory ___________________________________ 1
Battery loses power ______________________________________________ 2
If you forget your password ________________________________________ 3
If you run out of memory __________________________________________ 4
Screen freezes or responds slowly ___________________________________ 5
Screen is blank _________________________________________________ 5
Screen is dark __________________________________________________ 5
Screen is hard to read ____________________________________________ 6
Inaccurate response to stylus taps ___________________________________ 6
Slow or no response _____________________________________________ 6
Infrared (IR) connection problems ____________________________________ 6
Modem connection problems _______________________________________ 7
Network connection problems ______________________________________ 8
Cable connection problems_________________________________________ 8
Routine Maintenance _____________________________________________ 9
Battery Guidelines _______________________________________________ 9
Travel Guidelines ________________________________________________ 10
Chapter 9: Character Recognizer _______________________________ 1
Appendix A: Regulatory Notices ________________________________ 1
Regulatory Agency Identification Numbers ______________________________ 1
Table of Contents I-5
Federal Communications Commission Notice ___________________________ 2
Canadian Notice_________________________________________________ 3
Avis Canadien __________________________________________________ 3
European Union Notice ___________________________________________ 3
ENERGY STAR Compliance _______________________________________ 3
Battery Warning ________________________________________________ 3
Appendix B: Hardware Specifications ____________________________ 1
System Specifications ____________________________________________ 1
Physical Specifications ___________________________________________ 3
I-6 Table of Contents
chapter 1
GETTING STARTED
Welcome
Congratulations on purchasing a Compaq Aero Pocket PC. Due to the size and capabilities
of your Aero, you can keep your most important business and personal information up-to-
date and close at hand. Microsoft ActiveSync increases the power of your Aero Pocket
PC by allowing you to synchronize the information on your desktop or laptop computer
with your Aero. Picture yourself in the following situations:
While walking with a colleague, your cell phone rings and the boss asks if you two are
free this afternoon for an emergency meeting. While your colleague fumbles through
his paper organizer, you press a button on your Aero and instantly see a list of today's
appointments and meetings. You are quickly able to tell the boss your available times.
For more information on scheduling appointments and meetings, see Chapter 4.
You're meeting your friends tonight for dinner and a movie. You download the latest
movie information from the Internet to your computer then synchronize it with your
Aero. At dinner, you pull out your Aero and review your movie options with your
friends. For more information on downloading Web pages to your Aero, see Chapter 6.
A Calendar reminder alerts you that it is time to catch the bus. You grab your Aero and
catch the bus just in time. Because ActiveSync keeps the information on your Aero up-
to-date, you leisurely review your task list, make notes about the new books and CDs
you want to buy, and read and respond to e-mail messages. When you get back to the
office, ActiveSync transfers any task changes you made, your notes, and your e-mail
message responses to your computer. For more information on ActiveSync, see Chap-
ter 3.
Where to Find Information
This reference guide describes your Aero hardware, provides an overview of the programs
on your Aero, and explains how to connect your Aero to a computer, a network, or the
Internet. For instructions on setting up your Aero, see the Quick Start Card. For instruc-
Getting Started 1-1
tions on installing ActiveSync, see the booklet accompanying the ActiveSync CD. The
following table is a guide to additional information to help you use your Aero:
For information on: See this source:
Programs on your Aero This reference guide and Aero Help. To view
Help, tap then Help.
Additional programs that The Extras folder, located on the ActiveSync
can be installed your CD.
Aero
Connecting to and syn- The ActiveSync booklet or ActiveSync Help on
chronizing with a com- your computer. To view Help, click Help then
puter Microsoft ActiveSync Help.
The Read Me files, located in the Microsoft
Last-minute updates and
detailed technical infor- ActiveSync folder on the computer and on the
mation ActiveSync CD.
Up-to-date information www.microsoft.com/windowsce/
on Windows-powered
devices
The latest information Aero Home Page (www.compaq.com/
products/handhelds)
and offers for your Aero
and accessories
Information on Aero Accessories Information
accessories and how to
order them
Customer Registration
To receive the latest information on your Aero, as well as special offers on Aero accesso-
ries and software, be sure to register with Compaq by completing and mailing the Register
Now card included in the shipping box.
How to Upgrade your Aero
If you are currently using an Aero 1500 or 2100 Series Palm-size PC you can upgrade it to
the new Microsoft Pocket PC operating system. Upgrading the operating system involves
these steps:
Step 1: Synchronizing data with a computer
Step 2: Removing all batteries and disconnecting AC power
Step 3: Removing the existing memory module
1-2 Getting Started
Step 4: Installing a new memory module
Step 5: Synchronizing data and installing new programs
Step 1: Synchronizing data with a computer
CAUTION: Do not use ActiveSync Backup/Restore or CF Backup to transfer data from your Aero
Palm-size PC to your Aero Pocket PC.
1. Install Microsoft ActiveSync 3.1 on your computer. For information on installing
ActiveSync, see the booklet accompanying the ActiveSync CD.
2. Synchronize your Aero with your computer so that the information on your computer
is current.
NOTE: If you have files on your Aero that you want to transfer, such as Note Taker notes and
recordings, turn file conversion off in ActiveSync options so that the files stay in device
format, and use the ActiveSync Explorer to copy the files to your computer. For specific
instructions, see ActiveSync Help on the computer.
Copying offline folders from Inbox
If you have offline folders in Inbox on your Aero that contain e-mail messages you want
to keep, follow this procedure:
1. Connect your Aero to your computer then click Windows CE Inbox Transfer on the
Microsoft Outlook Tools menu.
2. Select Copy or move selected messages to your computer then click the Browse
button.
3. Select the offline folder that contains the messages you want to transfer to your com-
puter then click OK.
4. Click the Transfer button and select the folder you want to transfer the messages to or
click New Folder to create a new folder. Click OK to transfer the messages.
Step 2: Removing the batteries and disconnecting AC power
CAUTION: Once you have removed the old memory module from your Aero it will lose all its
data, so you must synchronize all data with a computer before replacing memory.
1. Remove the main battery pack as described in "Rechargeable Battery Pack" in Chapter
2.
2. Remove the backup battery as described in "Backup Battery" in Chapter 2.
3. Disconnect the AC adapter from your Aero.
Getting Started 1-3
Step 3: Removing the existing memory module
CAUTION: You must remove all batteries and disconnect from AC power before changing the
memory module. Otherwise you risk damaging the memory module.
CAUTION: Electrostatic discharge can damage electronic components. Before touching the
memory expansion module, be sure you are discharged of static electricity by touch-
ing a grounded metal object.
On the Aero 1500 Pocket PC:
1. Turn over your Aero.
2. Loosen the memory compartment screw by using a small Phillips-head screwdriver.
(The memory compartment screw is attached to the compartment cover and does not
come out.) Remove the compartment cover.
3. If a memory module is already installed, loosen it by using a small Phillips-head
screwdriver.
1-4 Getting Started
4. Remove the memory module by levering the right side of the module with the stylus
and gently pulling the module out of the compartment.
On the Aero 2100 Pocket PC:
1. Turn over your Aero.
2. Loosen the memory compartment screw by using a small Phillips-head screwdriver.
(The memory compartment screw is attached to the compartment cover and does not
come out.) Remove the compartment cover.
Getting Started 1-5
3. If a memory module is already installed, remove it by levering the right side of the
module with the left edge of the memory compartment cover and gently pulling the
module out of the compartment.
Step 4: Installing a new memory module
On the Aero 1500 Pocket PC:
1. Align the connector on the module with the connector in the RAM slot.
1-6 Getting Started
2. Insert the module, left side first, into the compartment so that the left edge of the mod-
ule sits on the left edge inside the compartment.
3. Press the right end of the module downward until it is fully inserted, and tighten the
screw.
4. Replace the memory compartment cover, inserting the right end of the cover first, and
tighten the screw.
On the Aero 2100 Pocket PC:
1. Align the connector on the module with the connector in the RAM slot.
Getting Started 1-7
2. Insert the module, left side first, into the compartment so that the left edge of the mod-
ule sits on the left edge inside the compartment.
3. Press the right end of the module downward until it is fully inserted.
4. Replace the memory compartment cover, inserting the right end of the cover first, and
tighten the screw.
Step 5: Synchronizing data and installing new programs
1. Power on your Aero.
2. Synchronize your Aero with your computer. This will update your Pocket PC using the
current data on your computer (step 1).
3. Reinstall programs. Check whether new versions that have been optimized for the
Aero Pocket PC are available.
4. Copy the files you transferred to your computer in step 1 to your Aero using the
ActiveSync Explorer.
1-8 Getting Started
5. Turn file conversion on again in ActiveSync.
6. Enter your settings and connection information on the Aero.
Copying offline folders from Inbox
If you copied Inbox messages from offline folders to your computer, follow this procedure
to transfer the messages to your Aero:
1. Tap Tools then New Folder and create a folder for the messages you are going to
transfer in Inbox on your Aero.
2. Select the messages you want to transfer in Outlook on your computer.
3. Connect your Aero to your computer then click Windows CE Inbox Transfer on the
Outlook Tools menu.
4. Select Copy selected messages to your mobile device then click the Browse button.
5. Select the offline folder on your Aero you want to transfer the messages to then click
OK.
6. Click the Transfer button. The selected messages are moved to your Aero.
Symbols and Conventions
Some or all of the following format conventions may be used in this guide to dis-
tinguish elements of text:
Names of menus, commands and icons are shown in bold type as they appear on the
display, for example, Settings, Power.
WARNING: Text set off in this manner indicates that failure to follow directions could result in
bodily harm or loss of life.
CAUTION: Text set off in this manner indicates that failure to follow directions could result in
damage to equipment or loss of information.
NOTE: Text set off in this manner presents commentary, sidelights, or interesting points of infor-
mation.
Getting Started 1-9
1-10 Getting Started
chapter 2
BASIC SKILLS
Learning to use your Aero Pocket PC is easy. This chapter describes the basic concepts of
using and customizing your Aero Pocket PC.
NOTE: The pictures below show the Aero 1500 Pocket PC. There are slight variations in the loca-
tion of some of the features on the Aero 2100 Pocket PC.
Locating Front Panel Controls
TM
oe
s
>
Basic Skills 2-1
Item Component Function
1 Alarm/Charge Serves as both a battery charge indicator and a
Light visual alarm indicator.
Flashing green: Notification alarm signal.
Flashing amber: Battery is charging.
Solid amber: Battery is fully charged.
2 Application Allow quick access to four applications. By
Buttons default, the applications are Calendar, Contacts,
Tasks, Notes. You can change the shortcuts of the
program buttons so that they open different appli-
cations. For more information, see "Adjusting
Settings" later in this chapter.
3 Power Button Press and release the button to turn on or off your
Aero. Press and hold the button for one second to
toggle on or off the backlight.
4 Microphone Allows you to record voice messages
2-2 Basic Skills
Top Edge Components
TM
s
>
oe
Item Component Function
1 Infrared Port Enables you to exchange data with other Win-
dows-powered devices. The infrared port can
transmit at speeds up to 115.2Kb per second. For
more information, see Chapter 11.
2 Headphone Jack Lets you connect earphones.
3 CompactFlash Aero 1500 Pocket PC: supports Type I Compact-
Card Slot Flash cards.
Aero 2100 Pocket PC: supports Type I and Type
II CompactFlash cards.
The CompactFlash slot is protected by a remov-
able cover. For more information, see Chapter 12,
"CompactFlash Cards."
4 Stylus Use the stylus to tap or write on the screen.
Aero 1500 Pocket PC: Pull the stylus up to release
it from the compartment.
Aero 2100 Pocket PC: Press down the stylus to
automatically pop it up for easy removal.
Press the stylus again to lock it back into its
holder.
Basic Skills 2-3
Left Side Components
TM s >
Item Component Function
1 Record Button Activates the record function in Notes. For more
information, see Chapter 7, "Notes."You can
change the shortcut of the Record button so that it
opens a different application. For more informa-
tion, see "Adjusting Settings" later in this chapter.
2 Dial/Action Button Allows you to scroll through a list (similar to
pressing the arrow keys on a keyboard). In the list
view of a program, you can use the Dial to scroll
to the item you want to view. The center of the
button can be used as an Action button to open a
selected item.
3 QLaunch Button Launches the Q Menu. You can change the short-
cut of the QLaunch button so that it opens a dif-
ferent application. For more information, see
"Adjusting Settings" later in this chapter.
NOTE: The Record button is located on the top left corner on the Aero 2100 Pocket PC.
2-4 Basic Skills
Bottom and Right Side Components
TM
s
oe
>
Item Component Function
1 Backup Battery Maintains data when the main battery pack is low
or unavailable. Open the cover of the backup bat-
tery compartment to access the backup battery.
For more information, see "Backup Battery" later
in this chapter.
2 DC Jack Allows you to connect to external power with the
supplied AC adapter.
3 Communications Connects your Aero to the cradle (or to an
Port optional serial cable).
4 Battery Cover Press the recessed button with your stylus to open
Release Button the battery compartment cover.
(Aero 1500 only)
NOTE: The backup battery and DC jack are located on the bottom edge of the Aero 2100 Pocket
PC.
Basic Skills 2-5
Back Side Components
TM
oe
s
>
Item Component Function
1 Memory Compart- Holds the memory module installed in the Aero.
ment For more information, see "Upgrading your
Aero" in Chapter 1.
2 Battery Compart- Holds the rechargeable battery pack. For more
ment information, see "Rechargeable Battery Pack"
later in this chapter.
3 Backup Battery Allows you to access the backup battery. To pop
Cover Release open the backup battery compartment cover on
Button (Aero 1500 the adjacent edge, use the tip of the stylus to press
Pocket PC only) the button.
4 Speaker Sounds alarms and plays back sound recordings.
5 Reset Button Lets you restart your Aero if it stops responding
(recessed) as expected, or freezes. For more information, see
"Reset your Aero and Clear Memory" in Chapter
8.
2-6 Basic Skills
Installing Batteries
Your Aero Pocket PC is installed with a rechargeable, removable battery pack that can
power the Aero wherever you go. In addition, the Aero Pocket PC has a small backup bat-
tery. The backup battery maintains the data stored on RAM memory when the main bat-
tery pack is fully discharged or while you are changing one battery pack for another
battery pack.
Rechargeable Battery Pack
When the battery pack is fully charged, it can store enough energy to power your Aero for
several hours. If you use heavy power-using features such as the screen backlight, you will
discharge the battery faster. If you frequently use the Aero Pocket PC with battery power
for a long duration exceeding several hours, you may want to purchase a spare battery.
To change the Aero 1500 Pocket PC battery pack:
Before removing the battery, always verify that the coin-sized backup battery is installed
in the Aero and has a rating of 20% or higher.
CAUTION: The backup battery maintains the data held in your Aero whenever the battery is low,
or if the battery pack is removed. The backup battery is not rechargeable, so when
you change battery packs, do not cause an unnecessary drain on the backup battery
by leaving the Aero without a battery pack for more than a short period of time.
1. Turn off the Aero.
2. Turn over the Aero and use your stylus to press the recessed button below the battery
cover on the bottom edge of the Aero. The cover will pop up.
3. Grasp the cover and pull it up at a 45-degree angle to disengage it from the two latches
at the top of the battery compartment. Remove the cover completely.
4. Remove the battery from the battery compartment.
Basic Skills 2-7
5. Place the new battery into the compartment as indicated by the icon inside the com-
partment.
6. Reinsert the battery cover at a 45-degree angle to engage its two tabs into the latches at
the top of the compartment, then press down to snap it into place.
IMPORTANT: The battery compartment cover must be installed for the Aero to power on.
7. If the inserted battery is new, connect the Aero to the AC adapter and charge the bat-
tery for three hours, until it is fully charged.
To change the Aero 2100 Pocket PC battery pack:
1. Turn off your Aero.
2. Turn over your Aero and slide the cover of the battery compartment downwards so
that you can remove it completely.
2-8 Basic Skills
3. Take the battery out of the battery compartment.
4. Insert the new battery into the compartment. Align the battery as shown on the place-
ment label inside the battery compartment. Verify that the terminal end of the pack is
adjacent to the terminals inside the battery pack compartment.
5. Slide up the cover of the battery pack compartment so that it locks in place.
Backup Battery
The backup battery in your Aero is a coin-sized Lithium cell battery (CR2032). The
backup battery is not rechargeable, but in normal use, it should have enough charge to last
for a year or more. Follow the guidelines below to maintain the backup battery:
Whenever the main battery pack is fully discharged, recharge it at the earliest opportu-
nity.
Basic Skills 2-9
If you have two main battery packs, try to always keep a charged battery inside your
Aero. When you exchange the battery packs, make sure the Aero is without a main
battery pack for just a short period of time.
If you will not be using your Aero for several days or more, first back up your data to
your computer, then make sure that the battery pack is charged by keeping the Aero
connected to AC power.
CAUTION: Failure to keep the main battery charged, or the Aero connected to AC power, can
cause the backup battery to discharge and the eventual loss of data stored in RAM
memory.
To change the Aero 1500 Pocket PC backup battery:
1. Verify that the Aero is installed with a main battery pack with a charge rating of 20%
or greater.
2. Turn off the Aero and turn it over.
3. Use the tip of the stylus to press the recessed button on the back of the Aero adjacent
to the backup battery compartment. The cover is hinged at one end and will pop open.
4. Remove the used backup battery from the backup battery compartment. Insert the new
battery into the compartment, taking care that you correctly replace the battery. The
positive terminal of the battery faces upward (i.e., toward the back of the Aero), as
shown on the diagram inside the compartment.
2-10 Basic Skills
5. Close the battery compartment and restart your Aero.
To change the Aero 2100 Pocket PC backup battery
1. Verify that your Aero is installed with a battery pack with a charge rating of 20% or
greater.
2. Turn off your Aero.
3. Use the tip of the stylus to open the cover of the backup battery compartment on the
bottom edge of your Aero. The cover is hinged at one end.
4. Remove the used backup battery from the backup battery compartment. Insert the new
battery into the compartment, taking care that you correctly replace the battery. The
positive terminal of the battery faces downwards, as shown on the label inside the
compartment.
Basic Skills 2-11
5. Close the battery compartment and restart your Aero.
WARNING: Your Aero contains a coin-cell lithium battery powered Real-Time Clock circuit. There
is a danger of explosion and risk of personal injury if the battery is incorrectly
replaced or mistreated. Do not attempt to recharge the battery, disassemble it, or
immerse it in water or dispose of it in fire. Replace only with the battery designated
for this product. Discard used batteries according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Cradle and AC Adapter
Your Aero comes with a cradle and AC adapter. This allows you to recharge your Aero, as
well as synchronize the information between your Aero and a computer using ActiveSync.
For more information on synchronization, see ActiveSync Help on your computer.
TM
s
Item Component Function
1 AC Adapter Connects the cradle to external power.
2-12 Basic Skills
Component Function
Item
2 Fixed Auto-sync Connects the cradle to a computer's serial port.
cable When you dock the Aero into the cradle the Aero
automatically connects with the computer. (You
must install ActiveSync on the computer first.)
There is no requirement to fully discharge the battery pack before recharging and there is
no requirement to continue charging a battery pack until it is fully charged. If you pur-
chase a replacement or a spare battery back, always give it a full charge the first time that
you use it.
Connecting to External Power
You can recharge the Aero battery pack by:
Connecting the AC adapter to the cradle and docking the Aero into the cradle.
Connecting the AC adapter directly to your Aero.
Using the deluxe cradle charging compartment (available with some Aero 2100
Pocket PC models only).
CAUTION: Only use the Compaq Aero 1500/2100 AC adapter to connect to external power. If you
do not, you may damage your Aero.
Basic Skills 2-13
WARNING: Do not attempt to connect a second AC adapter to the Aero 1500 Pocket PC's DC jack
if the Aero is already docked in a cradle that is connected to a wall outlet.
When the Aero is connected to external power the amber charge light begins flashing to
indicate that battery charging is underway. If the battery is completely discharged, the bat-
tery will receive a full charge in 2 to 3 hours. If you have turned on your Aero while the
battery is charging, it might take up to 4 hours for the battery to receive a full charge.
When the battery pack is fully charged, the charge light stops flashing.
Useful Battery Life
The removable battery pack is rated to remain useful for at least 300 cycles of charging
and discharging. Beyond this time, the battery will become less efficient and progressively
begin to store less charge. When you notice that your battery begins to hold less charge,
replace it with a new Compaq-approved battery pack.
Using the Stylus
Your Aero has a stylus for selecting items and entering information. On your Aero, the
stylus replaces the mouse.
Tap. Touch the screen once with the stylus to open items and select options.
Drag. Hold the stylus on the screen and drag across the screen to select text and
images. Drag in a list to select multiple items.
Tap-and-hold. Tap and hold the stylus on an item to see a list of actions available for
that item. On the pop-up menu that appears, tap the action you want to perform.
NOTE: The stylus tip can also be used to press the reset button or set the On/Off switch.
Today Screen
When you turn on your Aero for the first time each day (or after 4 hours of inactivity),
you'll see the Today screen. You can also display it by tapping then Today. On the
Today screen, you can see at a glance important information for the day.
2-14 Basic Skills
You may see the following status icons on the command bar in the Today screen.
Description
Status Icon
Turns all sounds on and off
Main battery is charging
Main battery is low
Main battery is very low
External (AC) power source is connected
Dial-up connection is active
Direct connection is active
Maximizes the Q Menu
Adjusts the backlight
Basic Skills 2-15
Programs
You can switch from one program to another by selecting it from the menu. (You can
customize which programs you see on this menu. For information, see "Adjusting Set-
tings," later in this chapter.) To access some programs, you'll need to tap , Programs,
then the program name.
NOTE: Some programs have abbreviated labels for check boxes and drop-down menus. To see
the full spelling of an abbreviated label, tap and hold the stylus on the label. Drag the sty-
lus off the label so that the command is not carried out. HTC Note: This tip is for localized versions
only. It does not apply to the WWE version.
You can also switch to some programs by pressing an application button. Your Aero has
four application buttons located on the front of your Aero, and two on the side. The fol-
lowing icons on the buttons identify the programs they switch to:
Item Icon Program
1 Calendar
2 Contacts
3 Tasks
4 Notes
The following table contains a partial list of programs that are on your Aero. Look in the
Extras folder on the ActiveSync CD for additional programs that you can install onto your
Aero.
Icon Program Description
Calendar Keep track of your appointments
and create meeting requests.
Contacts Keep track of your friends and
colleagues.
Inbox Send and receive e-mail mes-
sages.
Infrared Receive information from
Receive another Windows-powered
device.
2-16 Basic Skills
Icon Program Description
Internet View Web pages downloaded
Explorer from your computer or connect
to an ISP and browse the Web.
Microsoft Enter and view transactions and
Money check on your account balances.
Microsoft Read electronic books on your
Reader Aero.
Notes Create handwritten or typed
notes, drawings, and recordings.
Picture View images on your Aero
Viewer
Pocket Create new workbooks or view
Excel and edit Excel workbooks cre-
ated on your computer.
Pocket Create new documents or view
Word and edit Word documents cre-
ated on your computer.
QLaunch Move between open tasks and
access the QUtilities.
Tasks Keep track of your tasks.
QUtilities Move easily between tasks and
access many system settings.
Windows Play Windows Media Audio and
Media MP3 files.
Navigation Bar and Command Bar
The navigation bar is located at the top of the screen. It displays the active program and
current time, and allows you to switch to programs and close screens.
Use the command bar at the bottom of the screen to perform tasks in programs. The com-
mand bar includes menu names, buttons, and the input panel button. To create a new item
in the current program, tap New. To see the name of a button, tap and hold the stylus on
the button. Drag the stylus off the button so that the command is not carried out.
Basic Skills 2-17
Pop-up Menus
With pop-up menus, you can quickly choose an action for an item. For example, you can
use the pop-up menu in the contact list to quickly delete a contact, make a copy of a con-
tact, or send an e-mail message to a contact. The actions in the pop-up menus vary from
program to program. To access a pop-up menu, tap and hold the stylus on the item name
that you want to perform the action on. When the menu appears, lift the stylus, and tap the
action you want to perform. Or tap anywhere outside the menu to close the menu without
performing an action.
2-18 Basic Skills
Notifications
Your Aero reminds you in a variety of ways when you have something to do. For exam-
ple, if you've set up an appointment in Calendar, a task with a due date in Tasks, or an
alarm in Clock, you'll be notified in any of the following ways:
A message box appears on the screen.
A sound plays, or the Aero vibrates (Aero 2100 Pocket PC only).
The green Alarm light flashes on your Aero.
To choose reminder types and sounds for your Aero, tap then Settings. In the Personal
tab, tap Sounds & Reminders. The options you choose here apply throughout your Aero.
To use vibrating notification (Aero 2100 Pocket PC only):
1. Tap then Settings. In the Personal tab, tap Sounds & Reminders.
2. In the Reminders tab, deselect the Play sound audio box.
Enter Information on Your Aero
You have several options for entering new information:
Enter typed text in the input panel by using the soft keyboard or Character Recognizer.
Write directly on the screen.
Draw pictures on the screen.
Basic Skills 2-19
Speak into your Aero microphone to record a message.
Synchronize or copy information from your computer to your Aero using ActiveSync.
For more information on ActiveSync, see the booklet accompanying the ActiveSync
CD or ActiveSync Help on your computer.
Typing Using the Input Panel
Use the input panel to enter information in any program on your Aero. You can either type
using the soft keyboard or write using Character Recognizer. In either case, the characters
appear as typed text on the screen.
To show or hide the input panel, tap the Input Panel button. Tap the arrow next to the
Input Panel button to see your choices.
When you use the input panel, your Aero anticipates the word you are typing or writing
and displays it above the input panel. When you tap the displayed word, it is inserted into
your text at the insertion point. The more you use your Aero, the more words it learns to
anticipate.
NOTE: To change word suggestion options, such as the number of words suggested at one time,
tap , Settings, Personal tab, Input, then the Word Completion tab.
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To type with the soft keyboard:
1. Tap the arrow next to the Input Panel button then Keyboard.
2. Tap the keys with your stylus on the soft keyboard that is displayed.
To use Character Recognizer:
1. Tap the arrow next to the Input Panel button then Character Recognizer.
2. Write a letter in the box.
When you write a letter, it is converted to typed text that appears on the screen. For spe-
cific instructions on using Character Recognizer, see Appendix A.
To select typed text:
If you want to edit or format typed text, you must select it first by dragging the stylus
across the text you want to select.
You can cut, copy, and paste text by tapping and holding the selected words then tapping
an editing command on the pop-up menu, or by tapping the command on the Edit menu.
Writing on the Screen
In any program that accepts writing, such as the Notes program and the Notes tab in Cal-
endar, Contacts, and Tasks, you can use your stylus to write directly on the screen. Write
the way you do on paper. You can edit and format what you've written and convert the
information to text at a later time.
To write on the screen:
Tap the Pen button to switch to writing mode. This action displays lines on the screen to
help you write.
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NOTE: Some programs that accept writing may not have the Pen button. See the documentation
for that program to find out how to switch to writing mode.
To select writing:
If you want to edit or format writing, you must select it first.
1. Tap and hold the stylus next to the text you want to select until the insertion point
appears.
2. Drag the stylus across the text you want to select without lifting the stylus.
If you accidentally write on the screen, tap Tools then Undo and try again. You can also
select text by tapping the Pen button to deselect it then dragging the stylus across the
screen.
You can cut, copy, and paste written text in the same way you work with typed text: tap
and hold the selected words then tap an editing command on the pop-up menu, or tap the
command on the Edit menu.
To convert writing to text:
Tap Tools then Recognize.
If you want to convert only certain words, select them before tapping Recognize on the
Tools menu (or tap and hold the selected words then tap Recognize on the pop-up menu).
If a word is not recognized, it is left as writing.
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If the conversion is incorrect, you can select different words from a list of alternates or
return to the original writing. To do so, tap and hold the incorrect word (tap one word at a
time). On the pop-up menu, tap Alternates. A menu with a list of alternate words appears.
Tap the word you want to use, or tap the writing at the top of the menu to return to the
original writing.
Tips for getting good recognition:
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Write neatly.
Write on the lines and draw descenders below the line. Write the cross of the "t" and
apostrophes below the top line so that they are not confused with the word above.
Write periods and commas above the line.
For better recognition, try increasing the zoom level to 300% using the Tools menu.
Write the letters of a word closely and leave big gaps between words so that your Aero
can easily tell where words begin and end.
Hyphenated words, foreign words that use special characters such as accents, and
some punctuation cannot be converted.
If you add writing to a word to change it (such as changing a "3" to an "8") after you
attempt to recognize the word, the writing you add will not be included if you attempt
to recognize the writing again.
Drawing on the Screen
You can draw on the screen in the same way that you write on the screen. The difference
between writing and drawing on the screen is how you select items and how they can be
edited. For example, selected drawings can be resized, while writing cannot.
To create a drawing:
Cross three ruled lines on your first stroke. A drawing box appears. Subsequent
strokes in or touching the drawing box become part of the drawing. Drawings that do
not cross three ruled lines will be treated as writing.
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NOTE: You may want to change the zoom level so that you can more easily work on or view your
drawing. Tap Tools then a zoom level.
To select a drawing:
If you want to edit or format a drawing, you must select it first. Tap and hold the stylus on
the drawing until the selection handle appears. To select multiple drawings, deselect the
Pen button then drag to select the drawings you want.
You can cut, copy, and paste selected drawings by tapping and holding the selected draw-
ing then tapping an editing command on the pop-up menu, or by tapping the command on
the Edit menu. To resize a drawing, make sure the Pen button is not selected and drag a
selection handle.
Recording a Message
In any program where you can write or draw on the screen, you can also quickly capture
thoughts, reminders, and phone numbers by recording a message. In Calendar, Tasks, and
Contacts, you can include a recording in the Notes tab. In the Notes program, you can
either create a stand-alone recording or include a recording in a written note. If you want
to include the recording in a note, open the note first.
To create a recording:
1. Hold your Aero so that the microphone is near your mouth or other source of sound.
2. Press and hold the Record hardware button on your Aero until you hear a beep.
3. Make your recording while holding down the Record button.
4. Release the Record button to stop recording. Two beeps will sound. The new record-
ing appears in the note list or as an embedded icon.
NOTE: You can also make a recording by tapping the Record button on the Recording toolbar.
To play a recording, tap it in the list or tap its icon in the note.
Basic Skills 2-25
Find Information
The Find feature on your Aero helps you quickly locate information. On the menu, tap
Find. Enter the text you want to find, select a data type, then tap Go to start the search.
NOTE: To quickly find information that is taking up storage space on your Aero, select Larger
than 64 KB in Type.
Customize Your Aero
You can customize your Aero by adjusting Aero settings and installing additional soft-
ware.
Adjusting Settings
You can adjust Aero settings to suit the way you work. To see available options, tap ,
Settings, then the Personal, System or Connections tab located at the bottom of the
screen.
You might want to adjust the following:
Item Description
Align Screen Adjust the touch screen if it is not responding accurately.
2-26 Basic Skills
Item Description
Asset Viewer Access detailed information about your Aero as well as your
owner information.
Backlight Set the time before the backlight turns off when the Aero is
idle.
Buttons Associate program buttons with specific programs and adjust
the up/down control of your Aero Navigator.
Clock Change the time or set alarms.
Contrast Optimize contrast. (Aero 1500 Pocket PC only)
Input Customize the input method and set word completion settings.
Memory Adjust the allocation of storage and program memory.
Menus Customize what appears on the menu and enable a pop-up
menu from the New button.
Owner Enter your contact information
Information
Password Limit access to your Aero
Power Maximize battery life.
Regional Customize the appearance of numbers, currency, times and
Settings dates.
Remove Uninstall a program.
Programs
Sounds and Customize or turn off sounds.
Reminders
Today Customize the information displayed on the Today screen.
Setting a Password
To help protect against unauthorized use of your Aero, password security is provided. For
immediate protection, Compaq recommends setting up the password security through the
Password utility in the Settings of your Aero as soon as possible. If set, your login pass-
word must be entered each time you turn on your Aero.
NOTE: Choose a password that's easy to remember. If you forget it, you must perform a full reset
to use your Aero again. A full reset restarts your Aero and removes all information that
was stored in memory, such as your data files and your system settings.
Basic Skills 2-27
To set your login password, follow these steps:
1. Tap , Settings, then Password.
2. If a password has been previously set, it will ask you to enter your 4-digit PIN. Enter
the number. This gives you access to the rest of the Password application.
3. To set a new password or change an existing password, tap in a 4-digit number.
4. Enable the login password by checking the Require password when Aero is turned
on box.
5. Save your new settings by tapping OK.
Your login password is now set. The login password screen appears each time you turn on
your Aero.
Adding or Removing Programs
Programs added to your Aero at the factory are stored in ROM (read-only memory). You
cannot remove or modify this software, and you'll never accidentally lose ROM contents.
Programs and data files added to your Aero after factory installation are stored in RAM
(random access memory). You can install any program created for your Aero, as long as
your Aero has enough memory. The most popular place to find software for your Aero is
on the World Wide Web.
To add programs:
You'll need to install the appropriate software for your Aero on your computer before
installing it on your Aero.
1. Download the program to your computer (or insert the CD or disk that contains the
program into your computer). You may see a single *.exe file, a *.zip file, a Setup.exe
file, or several versions of files for different Aero types and processors. Be sure to
select the program designed for the Pocket PC and your Aero processor type
(MIPS).
2. Read any installation instructions, Read Me files, or documentation that comes with
the program. Many programs provide special installation instructions.
3. Connect your Aero and computer.
4. Double-click the *.exe file.
5. If the file is an installer, the installation wizard will begin. Follow the directions on the
screen. Once the software has been installed on your computer, the installer will auto-
matically transfer the software to your Aero.
6. If the file is not an installer, you will see an error message stating that the program is
valid but it is designed for a different type of computer. You will need to move this file
to your Aero. If you cannot find any installation instructions for the program in the
Read Me file or documentation, use ActiveSync Explore to copy the program file to
2-28 Basic Skills
the Program Files folder on your Aero. For more information on copying files using
ActiveSync, see ActiveSync Help.
Once installation is complete, tap , Programs, then the program icon to switch to it.
To add a program to the Start menu:
Tap , Settings, Menus, the Start Menu tab, then the check box for the program. If you
do not see the program listed, you can either use File Explorer on your Aero to move the
program to the Start Menu folder or use ActiveSync on the computer to create a shortcut
to the program and place the shortcut in the Start Menu folder.
Using File Explorer on your Aero: Tap , Programs, File Explorer, and locate
the program (tap the folder list, labeled My Documents by default, then My Aero to
see a list of all folders on your Aero). Tap and hold the program and tap Cut on the
pop-up menu. Open the Start Menu folder located in the Windows folder, tap and hold
a blank area of the window, and tap Paste on the pop-up menu. The program will now
appear on the menu. For more information on using File Explorer, see "Find and
Organize Information," earlier in this chapter.
Using ActiveSync on the computer: Use the Explorer in ActiveSync to explore your
Aero files and locate the program. Right-click the program, then click Create Short-
cut. Move the shortcut to the Start Menu folder in the Windows folder. The shortcut
now appears on the menu. For more information, see ActiveSync Help.
To remove programs:
Tap then Settings. On the System tab, tap Remove Programs.
If the program does not appear in the list of installed programs, use File Explorer on your
Aero to locate the program, tap and hold the program, then tap Delete on the pop-up
menu.
Adjusting the Backlight
The backlight on your Aero lets you view text and graphics clearly whether you're indoors
or outdoors, in a dim study or at a brightly lit worksite. The Aero 2100 Pocket PC has
three backlight settings: High, Low and Off. The Aero 1500 Pocket PC has two backlight
settings: On and Off.
There are three ways to change the backlight setting:
Press and hold the Power button for one second to toggle on or off the backlight.
Tap the light bulb icon on the command bar on the Today screen to toggle between
settings.
Press QLaunch, then tap Backlight to choose between settings.
NOTE: On the Aero 1500 Pocket PC Backlight menu you can also change the backlight mode. In
reverse backlight mode, when the backlight is turned on your Aero will display dark text
Basic Skills 2-29
on a white back ground in dimly lit environments, and white text on a dark background in
brightly lit environments. Press QLaunch, then tap Backlight, Reverse to toggle on and
off reverse backlight mode.
To adjust the backlight time-out:
1. Press QLaunch, then tap Backlight, Properties.
2. Use the drop-down menu to set the amount of idle time before the backlight turns off
when your Aero is using battery power.
Using the QUtilities and Q Menu
Customizing your Aero Pocket PC is both convenient and easy when you use the Q Menu
and the QUtilities. The Q Menu and QUtilities let you quickly access several important
setting controls. The Q Menu also lets you switch between, or close, open applications.
The QUtilities are located on the Q Menu. There are three ways to access the Q Menu:
Press the QLaunch button.
Tap the Q icon on the command bar on the Today screen.
Tap , then QLaunch.
If you want to remove the Q icon from your command bar, tap Exit on the Q Menu. To
restore the Q icon, tap , then QLaunch.
To change which items appear on the Q Menu, press QLaunch, then tap QUtilities, Q
Menu. Any items that you select will appear on the Q Menu.
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Task Management
The Q Menu allows you to close or switch among tasks on your Aero:
To close the program that is currently active, tap Close active task.
To close all the open programs on your Aero, tap Close all tasks.
NOTE: When you close a task, all unsaved data in that task is lost.
Below these two options is a list of running tasks. To switch among running tasks, tap
the name of the task you want to go to.
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Controlling Volume
The Volume utility provides an easy way to adjust the volume of your Aero.
1. Press QLaunch, then tap Volume.
- or-
Tap , Settings, System, then Sounds & Reminders.
2. Adjust the volume level on the slider, then tap OK to save the new setting.
Power
When you are working with your Aero and using battery power, you can monitor the
charge held in the battery pack by using the Power window. To conserve battery power,
your Aero automatically powers off whenever it is idle for a continuous period of time. If
you are running on battery power, you can conserve charge if you shorten the idle time
before your Aero automatically powers off.
To display the Power control panel:
Tap , Settings, System, then Power.
-or-
Press QLaunch, then tap Power.
If the battery pack is low on charge, the battery icon appears on the command bar on
the Today screen. Tap the battery icon to display the Power control panel.
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NOTE: If the battery gets very low, your Aero displays a warning message. If this occurs, save
any unsaved data you are working on, perform a synchronization with your computer,
then turn off your Aero. Don't try to restart your Aero until you have connected to external
power. If your Aero shuts down, you still have about 24 hours to recharge the battery
before you lose the data on your Aero.
The Power control panel only shows the battery charge level if you are using the battery. If
you have connected the AC adapter, the window shows the recharging status.
NOTE: If you have just powered on your Aero, or disconnected it from AC power, the battery
gauge may appear blank. Wait a few moments before checking the battery charge.
To set the power off timer:
1. Press QLaunch, then tap Power.
- or-
Tap , Settings, System, then Power.
2. Use the drop down menus to set the idle intervals before your Aero automatically
powers off.
NOTE: If you are playing an audio file on your Aero under battery power, the display will automat-
ically turn off after 1 minute if there has been no input to your Aero. The display will turn
back on once the audio file has finished playing. This power saving feature is not adjust-
able.
Basic Skills 2-33
File Explorer
You can use the File Explorer to find files on your Aero and to organize these files into
folders. Press QLaunch, then tap File Explorer.
NOTE: You can move files in File Explorer by tapping and holding the item you want to move then
tapping Cut or Copy and Paste on the pop-up menu.
Contrast (Aero 1500 Pocket PC only)
The Contrast utility lets you optimize the screen for higher picture quality, or higher con-
trast on your Aero 1500 Pocket PC. Higher picture quality sets the display to 16-gray
scale while Higher contrast sets the display to 4-gray scale and maximizes battery perfor-
mance. To change this setting:
1. Save all unsaved data.
2. Press QLaunch, then tap Contrast. Select Higher picture quality or Higher con-
trast, then tap OK.
3. Tap Reset for the new setting to take effect.
The Contrast utility also allows you to adjust the display contrast of your Aero for easy
viewing in any lighting environment. To adjust the display contrast:
1. Press QLaunch, then tap Contrast, then Set Contrast.
2. Adjust the slider until the contrast is suitable, then tap OK.
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Auto Run
The Auto Run feature in QUtilities allows specialized programs stored on a Compact-
Flash card to begin running automatically as soon as the card is inserted.
You can disable this function by pressing QLaunch, then tapping QUtilities, Auto
Run, Disable, then tapping OK.
You can also manually run a specialized program stored on an inserted CF card. On
the Auto Run tab, tap Restart.
Diagnostics
The Diagnostics utility within QUtilities activates a debugging and system diagnostic
tool. Use this tool to verify any problems that you may have experienced on your Aero.
1. Press QLaunch, then tap Close all tasks to close all active programs.
2. If you have enabled password protection at power-on, disable this by tapping , Set-
tings, then Password. Enter your 4-digit PIN, then deselect the Require password
check box.
3. If you have enabled display owner identification at power-on, disable this by tapping
, Settings, then Owner Information. Deselect the Show information when
device is turned on check box.
4. Press QLaunch, then tap QUtilities, then Diagnostics.
5. Tap the check boxes to select the items you want to test, then tap Next.
NOTE: The "IR transfer" test item is an internal infrared functionality test. You do not need to set
up another IR Aero to test this item.
Basic Skills 2-35
6. Tap . Your Aero will reset (unless you have disabled this option), and the test will
start automatically. Follow the instructions to complete the test.
NOTE: When Diagnostics finishes running, it displays the result of each test item. You can also
choose to save the results as a log file. This is stored in My Documents on your Aero.
7. Reset your password and owner information settings.
To read the diagnostics log file on your computer:
1. Connect your Aero to your computer, then use ActiveSync to copy the file from My
Documents on your Aero, to your computer.
2. On your computer, open the DIAGNOSTICS.log file in WordPad.
Backup/Restore
To avoid losing your data in the event that your Aero Pocket PC is lost, stolen, or becomes
defective, Compaq recommends periodic backups to the computer or a CompactFlash
card. Depending on your usage, you may want to perform a backup as often as once a day.
You can back up and restore your Aero's data using the following utilities:
ActiveSync Backup/Restore. Use this ActiveSync utility to periodically back up your
Aero's data onto your computer's hard drive. You can manually back up data or set this
utility to back up automatically each time you connect to your Pocket PC. For more
information, see ActiveSync Help on your computer.
CF Backup/Restore. This utility lets you back up and restore your entire Pocket PC
memory contents to a CompactFlash storage card (purchased separately). You can
2-36 Basic Skills
then carry a CompactFlash cardbased copy of your data with you at all times for
quick retrieval.
Backing up Data to a CF Card
Each time you use the CF Backup utility, your data files, databases, preferences, Win-
dows CE system data, and applications are copied to the CompactFlash storage card. The
subdirectories on your Aero Pocket PC are also duplicated on the storage card.
NOTE: CF Backup/Restore is designed for use with CompactFlash storage cards that are
approved by Microsoft as Windows CE compatible. You should use a card at least as big
as your Aero's RAM (Random Access Memory) size, e.g., 16 or 24 MB. For information on
ordering a Compaq CompactFlash storage card, see the Accessories Information flier
included in the shipping box. For a list of other Compaq-tested CompactFlash cards, visit
the Compaq Aero home page at www.compaq.com/products.
To perform a backup:
1. Connect to external power or verify that you have good batteries in your Aero.
2. Insert the CompactFlash storage card into the card slot on your Aero, as described ear-
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