> From:    John Rinehart <[log in to unmask]>
>
> Dear Listmember:
>
> A friend just bought a used Compaq Presario 1065 laptop. He did not get the
> users manual with it - no documentation. He would like to attach a scanner
> through the external COM port.
> Does he need to go into the BIOS and disable the internal modem in order to
> free the resources for the COM port? How does he enter the BIOS setup
> routine and any other information would be much appreciated on getting
> a serial scanner working?

I have found Compaq to be generally helpful - although they tend to do things
their own way.  For example, they usually store the configuration information
on a hidden track of the hard drive, instead of in the "CMOS" non-volatile
(i.e. battery-backup) RAM.

Assuming you have better than just e-mail access to the internet, go to:

 http://www.compaq.com/search.html

(it is harder, but possible by e-mail only) and enter something like:

 +Presario +1065 +(whatever else you are looking for to limit the search)

I'd suggest starting with "+support".  You will need to find and download
the appropriate "Softpaq"s containing the "Configuration Utility", and
probably diagnostic and other information.  Some files are in .pdf
format, and you will need to download the Adobe Acrobat Reader for your
own operating system in order to read them.

> Is the internal modem on COM1 and is it possible to configure the external
> COM port as COM2? Windows 95 is the operating system.

You will need to run some diagnostic inspection program on the 1065.  Try
entering "MSD" (without quotes) at the DOS prompt, to find out where the
modem is.  If you have the right "Configuration Utility" (it will list the
Presario 1065 laptop), then you can change to suit.

You may need to buy/build a "loopback" plug to test the COM port and cable.
The communications software you use to test it should give the necessary
connections (not all loopback plugs are the same).

You might also want to look at "ROMpaq"s for updating the BIOS, but be
careful. Don't fix it unless it is really "broke".  This may involve
removing and "burning" an EPROM, or buying a new one from Compaq.

You will also need setup information/software for the scanner.  Is it
TWAIN compatible? (Should be!)

Good hunting!  Let us know how it works out.

Boyd Ramsay

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