laptop manages the functions and drivers for a PC Card, a quick and relatively
easy way to add new features using a credit-card-sized device. The PC Card is
rapidly giving way to the USB port as a means to enhance and adapt a laptop.Processors
This section monitors the microprocessor on the motherboard. You can learn
some of the details of the model of microprocessor in your machine and can
repair, update, or reinstall the driver if needed. A failure of the microproces-
sor generally requires a visit to a repair shop and possibly a replacement of
the motherboard as well as the processor.SCSI and RAID controllers
SCSI (Small Computer System Interface)is a specialized interface that was
originally used for high-speed disk drives and other devices. They were on
what we once considered small computers but today are refrigerator-sized
electronic dinosaurs; RAIDis an acronym for Redundant Array of Inexpensive
(or Independent) Disks, a system used in some large offices to maintain
backup copies of data on banks of identical but independent drives. Neither
of those original uses are common on laptops, but SCSI and RAID technology
is used on some of the most current machines to work with advanced tech-
nologies including memory sticks, Secure Digital Cards, and xD Cards used as
storage for digital cameras and portable audio devices.Sound, video, and game controllers
Modern laptops have incorporated all of the functionality of their desktop
cousins in circuitry built into the motherboard.System devices
These motherboard components are generally not adjustable or replaceable
by the user.Universal Serial Bus controllers
Also a part of the motherboard, you generally find between one and three
such circuits to manage the nearly infinitely variable USB port.Coming Back from the Future: System Restore .........................................
One of the advanced features of Windows XP (Home and Professional) and
Windows ME is the ability to use a utility called System Restore. System
Restore, shown in Figure 5-5, allows you to go back in time — at least when it
comes to system settings and device drivers. You can instruct the system to
revert to the settings it was using the last time it worked properly. DependingChapter 5: Surviving Basic Training 73