I have installed an external CD writer on my old laptop using the parallel port, to transfer data to my new laptop. The CD writer is working for smaller files <4MB but it hangs on large files.

My problem is that I need to change the parallel port mode in the BIOS to enable Fast Transfer Mode (ECP/EPP 1.9). So far so good, but I can't get into the BIOS during startup.

I tried pressing F10 during startup when the Compaq logo is on the screen and a cursor is blinking in the upper right corner, but nothing happens.

Any suggestions?

Since you were not specific about the model and year of Compaq laptop you have suggest you try <Ctl>F10 .... and F12. Hopefully, one of these will do the trick.

try - Press <Alt> <Ctrl> <Esc> at boot when you see the "Compaq" logo in big letters
If none of the above suggestions work, it couild mean you have an
earlier model, 1996-early 1997 or earlier, that retains Setup info on a
small non-DOS partition at the front of the hard drive (this partition,
being non-DOS, does not show in Windows Explorer or File Manager)

Thanks wabeard and madmatt2006, I will give those a try.

P.S. I was not specific about the model number or year because there are no markings on the laptop, and I purchased it as a refurbished unit in 2003.

Mwalter4, go to this URL and download the Advisor. It's free. It will tell you, not only the model of your computer, but also things you didn't know you could find out about your computer.

Belarc Advisor - Free Personal PC Audit

You're always welcome back any time you like. If you have a question or just to look around. You never know. You might just be able to help someone else with their problem.