-1 TravelMate P2 Series (15" non-touch) User’s Manual
- © 2013. All Rights Reserved. TravelMate P2 Series (15" non-touch) Covers: TravelMate P255-MG / P255-M This revision: October 2013 Sign up for an Acer ID and enable Acer Remote Files Open the Acer Portal from the Start screen to sign up for an Acer ID or sign in if you already have an Acer ID.
Table of contents - 3 TABLE OF CONTENTS First things first 6 Your guides ............................................. 6 Basic care and tips for using your computer.................................................. 6 Using a Bluetooth connection 41 Enabling and disabling Bluetooth .......... 41 Turning your computer on and off............... 6 Taking care of your computer ..................... 7 Taking care of your AC adapter .................. 7 Taking care of your battery pack.................
- Table of contents Memory card reader 67 Connectivity options .............................. 67 Video and audio connectors 69 HDMI 70 Universal Serial Bus (USB) 71 Frequently asked questions 73 Requesting service ................................ 75 Tips and hints for using Windows 8.1.... 77 How do I get to Start? ............................... 77 What are "Charms?" ................................. 77 Can I boot directly to the desktop? ........... 78 How do I jump between apps?.................
-5 Getting started...
- First things first FIRST THINGS FIRST We would like to thank you for making this Acer notebook your choice for meeting your mobile computing needs. Your guides To help you use your Acer notebook, we have designed a set of guides: First off, the Setup Guide helps you get started with setting up your computer. The Quick Guide introduces you to the basic features and functions of your new computer. For more on how your computer can help you to be more productive, please refer to the User’s Manual.
First things first - 7 You can also put the computer in sleep mode by pressing the sleep hotkey + . Note If you cannot power off the computer normally, press and hold the power button for more than four seconds to shut down the computer. If you turn off the computer and want to turn it on again, wait at least two seconds before powering up. Taking care of your computer Your computer will serve you well if you take care of it. • Do not expose the computer to direct sunlight.
- First things first single wall outlet should not exceed the fuse rating. Taking care of your battery pack Here are some ways to take care of your battery pack: • Use only batteries of the same kind as replacements. Turn the power off before removing or replacing batteries. • Do not tamper with batteries. Keep them away from children. • Dispose of used batteries according to local regulations. Recycle if possible. Cleaning and servicing When cleaning the computer, follow these steps: 1.
Your Acer notebook tour - 9 YOUR ACER NOTEBOOK TOUR After setting up your computer as illustrated in the setup poster, let us show you around your new Acer computer. Screen view 1 2 3 4 # Icon 5 Item 1 Webcam 2 Screen 3 Microphone 4 SD card reader Description Web camera for video communication. A light next to the webcam indicates that the webcam is active. Displays computer output. Image is for reference only. Internal microphone for sound recording.
- Your Acer notebook tour # Icon 5 Item Description Indicates the computer's power Power indicator status. Indicates the computer's battery status. Charging: The light is amber when Battery indicator the battery is charging. Fully charged: The light is blue when plugged in. Indicates when the hard disk drive is HDD indicator active. Communication Indicates the computer’s wireless indicator connectivity device status.
Your Acer notebook tour - 11 # Icon Item 3 Touchpad 4 Click buttons (left and right) Description Touch-sensitive pointing device which functions like a computer mouse. The left and right side of the button function as left and right selection buttons. Left view 1 # Icon 2 Item Kensington lock slot 1 2 3 4 Ventilation External display (VGA) port Ethernet (RJ-45) port 5 HDMI port 6 USB port 3 4 5 6 7 Description Connects to a Kensingtoncompatible computer security lock.
- Your Acer notebook tour # Icon Item 7 Headset/speaker jack Description Connects to audio devices (e.g., speakers, headphones) or a headset with microphone. Information on USB 3.0 • • • • USB 3.0 compatible ports are blue. Compatible with USB 3.0 and earlier devices. For optimal performance, use USB 3.0-certified devices. Defined by the USB 3.0 specification (SuperSpeed USB). Right view 1 # 1 2 3 4 5 6 Icon 2 3 4 5 6 Item USB ports Description Connect to USB devices.
Your Acer notebook tour - 13 Base view 1 5 2 4 3 # Icon 1 2 3 4 5 Item Battery bay Description Houses the computer's battery pack. Allows the computer to stay cool. Ventilation and Do not cover or obstruct the cooling fan openings. Speakers Deliver stereo audio output. Memory Houses the computer's main compartment memory. Houses the computer's hard disk HDD compartment drive memory. Releases the battery for removal. Battery release Insert a suitable tool and slide to latch release.
- Using the keyboard USING THE KEYBOARD The keyboard has full-sized keys and a numeric keypad, separate cursor, lock, Windows, function and special keys. Lock keys and numeric keypad The keyboard has three lock keys which you can toggle on and off. Lock key Caps Lock Num Lock Scroll Lock ( + ) Description When Caps Lock is on, all alphabetic characters typed are in uppercase. When Num Lock is on, the keypad is in numeric mode.
Using the keyboard - 15 Hotkey Icon + + + + + + < > + < > Function Description Switches display output between the display screen, Display toggle external monitor (if connected) and both. Turns the display screen Display off backlight off to save power. Press any key to return. Touchpad Turns the built-in touchpad on toggle and off. Turns the speakers on and Speaker toggle off. Scr Lk Scroll Lock Turns Scroll Lock on or off.
- Using the keyboard Key Application key Description This key has the same effect as clicking the right mouse button; it opens the application's context menu.
Touchpad - 17 TOUCHPAD Touchpad basics The touchpad controls the arrow (or 'cursor') on the screen. As you slide your finger across the touchpad, the cursor will follow this movement. Press the left or right side of the button located beneath the touchpad to perform selection and execution functions, or tap the surface of the touchpad. These two areas are similar to the left and right buttons on a mouse. Note The touchpad is sensitive to finger movement; the lighter the touch, the better the response.
- Touchpad • Swipe in from edge: Access Windows tools by swiping into the center of the touchpad from the right, top or left. • Swipe in from right edge: Toggle the charms. • Swipe in from top edge: Toggle the app commands. • Swipe in from left edge: Switch to the previous app. • Two-finger slide: Swiftly scroll through web pages, documents and playlists by placing two fingers on the touchpad and moving both in any direction.
Recovery - 19 RECOVERY If you are having trouble with your computer, and the frequently asked questions (see Frequently asked questions on page 62) do not help, you can 'recover' your computer - i.e. return it to an earlier state. This section describes the recovery tools available on your computer. Acer provides Acer Recovery Management, which allows you to create a recovery backup, a drivers and applications backup, and to start recovery options, either using Windows tools, or the recovery backup.
- Recovery 1. From Start, type 'Recovery' and then click Acer Recovery Management in the list of apps. 2. Click Create Factory Default Backup. The Recovery Drive window opens. Make sure Copy contents from the recovery partition to the recovery drive is selected. This provides the most complete and safest recovery backup. 3. Plug in the USB drive then click Next.
Recovery - 21 • Since the recovery backup requires at least 16 GB of storage after formatting, it is recommended to use a USB drive with a capacity of 32 GB or larger. 4. You will be shown the backup progress on the screen. 5. Follow the process until it completes. 6. After creating the recovery backup, you can choose to delete the recovery information on your computer.
- Recovery may use either a USB storage drive or, if your computer features a DVD recorder, one or more blank recordable DVDs. 1. From Start, type 'Recovery' and then click Acer Recovery Management in the list of apps. 2. Click Create Drivers and Applications Backup. Plug in the USB drive or insert a blank DVD into the optical drive, then click Next. • If you are using a USB drive, make sure your USB drive has enough capacity before continuing.
Recovery - 23 with a permanent marker. If multiple discs are required, insert a new disc when prompted, then click OK. Continue until the process is complete. • If you are using a USB drive, unplug the drive and label it clearly. Important Write a unique, descriptive label on each backup, such as 'Drivers and Applications Backup'. Make sure you keep the backup in a safe place that you will remember. Recovering your system To recover your system: 1. Perform minor fixes.
- Recovery Reinstalling drivers and applications As a troubleshooting step, you may need to reinstall the applications and device drivers that came pre-installed on your computer from the factory. You can reinstall using either your hard drive or the backup you have created. • Other applications - If you need to reinstall software that did not come pre-installed on your computer, you need to follow that software’s installation instructions.
Recovery - 25 3. You should see the Contents section of the Acer Resource Center. Images for reference only. 4. Click the install icon for the item you want to install, then follow the onscreen instructions to complete the installation. Repeat this step for each item you want to reinstall. If you are reinstalling from a Drivers and Applications Backup on a DVD or USB drive: 1. Insert the Drivers and Applications Backup into the disc drive or connect it to a free USB port.
- Recovery 2. You should see the Contents section of the Acer Resource Center. Images for reference only. 3. Click the install icon for the item you want to install, then follow the onscreen prompts to complete the installation. Repeat this step for each item you want to reinstall. Returning to an earlier system snapshot Microsoft System Restore periodically takes a 'snapshot' of your system settings and saves them as restore points.
Recovery - 27 4. Click the latest restore point (at a time when your system worked correctly), click Next, then Finish. 5. A confirmation window appears; click Yes. Your system is restored using the restore point you specified. This process may take several minutes, and may restart your computer. Returning your system to its factory condition If your computer experiences problems that are not recoverable by other methods, you may need to reinstall everything to return your system to its factory condition.
- Recovery the Windows Store). See Customized Restore with Acer Recovery Management on page 29. Restore Factory Settings with Acer Recovery Management 1. Click Restore Factory Settings. Important ’Restore Factory Settings’ will erase all files on your hard drive. 2. The Reset your PC window opens. Images for reference only. 3. Click Next, then choose how to erase your files: a. Just remove my files quickly erases all files before restoring your computer and takes about 30 minutes. b.
Recovery - 29 5. The recovery process begins by restarting your computer, then continues by copying files to your hard drive. 6. After the recovery has finished, you can start using your computer by repeating the first-start process. Recovering from the hard drive during startup 1. Turn on your computer and press + during startup. A screen appears asking you to choose the keyboard layout. 2. Several options are now presented. Click Troubleshoot. 3.
- Recovery 2. The Refresh your PC window opens. Images for reference only. 3. Click Next, then Refresh. 4. The recovery process begins by restarting your computer, then continues by copying files to your hard drive. This process takes about 30 minutes. Recovering from a recovery backup To recover from a recovery backup on a USB drive: 1. Find your recovery backup. 2. If your computer does not have a built-in keyboard, make sure a keyboard is attached to your computer. 3.
Recovery - 31 b. Windows starts from the recovery backup instead of the normal startup process. 6. Select your keyboard type. 7. Select Troubleshoot and then choose the type of recovery to use: a. Click Advanced then System Restore to start Microsoft System Restore: Microsoft System Restore periodically takes a ’snapshot’ of your system settings and saves them as restore points.
- Recovery 2. Click Next. 3. Select the operating system to recover (normally only one option is available). 4. Choose to keep any changes to the hard drive: a. If you have deleted the recovery partition or otherwise changed the partitions on the hard drive and want to keep these changes, select No. b. To restore your computer to Factory Settings, select Yes. 5. Choose how to erase your files: a. Just remove my files quickly erases all files before restoring your computer and takes about 30 minutes. b.
Changing to Windows 8.1 or Windows 7 - 33 C H A N G I N G TO W I N D O W S 8 . 1 WINDOWS 7 OR Note Information in this section may not apply to your computer. Your computer is configured with two operating systems, Windows 7 and Windows 8.1. When you first start your computer, Windows 7 will start. Please follow the setup process. Important Changing the OS will erase all data on your computer. Create a backup before changing. Changing to Windows 8.1 To change to Windows 8.
- Changing to Windows 8.1 or Windows 7 3. Select Windows 8.1, and then click OK and follow the instructions. Windows will restart, replace Windows 7 with Windows 8.1, and then start the Windows 8.1 setup process. Note After configuring Windows 8.1, enter the BIOS (press when starting your computer) enter the Boot menu and change the Boot Mode to UEFI. See Changing BIOS settings on page 35. Changing to Windows 7 Note To change back to Windows 7, you must change Boot Mode back to Legacy BIOS.
Changing to Windows 8.1 or Windows 7 - 35 Start Windows 8.1; from Start, type ‘recovery’ to open Acer Recovery Management. 1. Select Restore Factory Settings. 2. Select Yes. 3. Select Windows 7, and then click OK and follow the instructions. Windows will restart, replace Windows 8.1 with Windows 7, and then start the Windows 7 setup process. Changing BIOS settings To change your BIOS settings, press when you see the Acer logo during boot up.
- Changing to Windows 8.1 or Windows 7 Use the arrow keys to select Boot > Boot Mode. Press , then use the arrow keys to select UEFI or Legacy BIOS. Press again. Finally, press to save the settings and reboot.
Changing to Windows 8.1 or Windows 7 - 37 Changing between Windows 7 and 8.1 during startup 1. Turn on your computer and press + when you see the Acer logo during boot up to launch Acer Recovery Management. 2. Select Restore Operating System to Factory Deafults. 3. Select which operating system to restore: Windows 7 or Windows 8.1. 4. Click OK and follow the instructions to complete the process and recover your system to it’s factory-loaded condition.
- Connecting to the Internet CONNECTING T O TH E INTERNET Note Information in this section may not apply to your computer. This chapter includes basic information on types of connections, and getting connected to the Internet. For detailed information, please refer to Network connections on page 88. Connecting with a cable Built-in network feature The built-in network feature makes it easy for you to connect your computer to the Internet using a cable.
Connecting to the Internet - 39 Connecting wirelessly Connecting to a wireless LAN A wireless LAN (or WLAN) is a wireless local area network, which can link two or more computers without using wires. Once connected to WLAN, you can access the Internet. You can also share files, other devices, and even your Internet connection itself. Warning Using wireless devices while flying in aircraft may be prohibited.
- Connecting to the Internet Connecting to a 3G network If your computer has a SIM slot, you can connect to the Internet using a 3G (cellular phone) network. To do this, you must have a compatible SIM card and a data contract with your cellular provider. Note Please contact your cellular provider for details on connecting to the Internet via 3G.
Using a Bluetooth connection - 41 USING A BLUETOOTH CONNECTION Bluetooth is a technology enabling you to transfer data wirelessly over short distances between many different types of devices. Bluetoothenabled devices include computers, cell phones, tablets, wireless headsets, and keyboards. To use Bluetooth, you must ensure the following: 1. Bluetooth is enabled on both devices. 2. Your devices are "paired" (or connected).
- Using a Bluetooth connection 4. Select the Allow Bluetooth devices to find this computer check box, click Apply, and then click OK. Adding a Bluetooth device Every new device must first be "paired" with your computer’s Bluetooth adapter. This means it must first be authenticated for security purposes. You only need to pair once. After that, simply turning on the Bluetooth adapter of both devices will connect them.
Using a Bluetooth connection - 43 Click on the device you want to add. A code displays on your computer, which should match the code displayed on your device. Select Yes. Then, accept the pairing from your device. Note Some devices using older versions of the Bluetooth technology require both devices to enter a PIN. In the case of one of the devices not having any inputs (as in a headset), the passcode is hardcoded into the device (usually "0000" or "1234").
- Using a Bluetooth connection click on View devices and printers. Right click on your device and select Advanced Operations > Connect to operation window. The operation window enables you to play music and audio from your device through your computer, send files to your device and change Bluetooth settings.
Contact pickup - 45 CONTACT PICKUP Sending your contact information As a business user, being able to quickly exchange contact information with colleagues, co-workers, and anyone you meet makes life just a little bit easier. To help, Acer has created an application that enables you to easily share your contact information. After you have created your contact information, from Start, type 'Contact Pickup' and then click the Contact Pickup icon.
- Keeping your computer and data safe...
Acer ProShield - 47 ACER PROSHIELD Overview An all-in-one security solution, Acer ProShield provides an embedded security solution to address the following points of vulnerability: • Securing the device against unauthorized access • Protecting local storage • Securing the network Acer ProShield includes five modules that will secure your device from unauthorized access and intrusion. Note Your computer may not have all the modules mentioned below.
- Acer ProShield Click Start to begin. You will be required to set a password, and can choose to create a Personal Secure Drive. Note Select a password that you will remember, but is difficult to guess. Do not use words that can be found in a dictionary. It is advisable to use a combination of letters and numbers. Once you have set a password, you can click Next to proceed to setting up a Personal Secure Drive or click Finish to exit the wizard.
Acer ProShield - 49 Personal Secure Drive The Personal Secure Disk (PSD) is a secure section of your hard disk where you can save files. You can only get access to the PSD via password or fingerprint authentication. Once setup is finished, you can go to the ProShield Console to manage your computer or make changes to the settings. Use the menu in the left-hand pane to make changes.
- Acer ProShield Credential Manager Here you can set and manage your credentials, including Pre-boot authentication. You can change your ProShield and Windows passwords, register fingerprints, manage online account information, and back up or restore credential information. Fingerprint Registration* * (only if your PC has a fingerprint scanner) You can use a fingerprint scanner to secure your PC from unauthorized access.
Acer ProShield - 51 Data Protection Here you can select files for encryption or decryption, and manage your Personal Secure Drive. Data Removal Here you can select files to be completely removed from the hard disk. The File Shredder overwrites the data to make recovering the data impossible. Warning Make sure you select only the information you want to shred. Once you have shredded a file or folder, it is impossible to recover the data.
- BIOS utility BIOS UTILITY The BIOS utility is a hardware configuration program built into your computer's BIOS. Your computer is already properly configured and optimized, and you do not normally need to run this utility. However, if you encounter configuration problems, you may need to run it. To activate the BIOS utility, press during the POST while the computer logo is being displayed.
Securing your computer - 53 SECURING Y O U R C O MP U TE R Your computer is a valuable investment that you need to take care of. Learn how to protect and take care of your computer. Security features include hardware and software locks — a security notch and passwords. Using a computer security lock The computer comes with a Kensington-compatible security slot for a security lock. Wrap a computer security lock cable around an immovable object such as a table or handle of a locked drawer.
- Securing your computer Entering passwords When a password is set, a password prompt appears in the center of the display screen. • When the Supervisor Password is set, a prompt appears when you enter the BIOS utility. • Type the Supervisor Password and press to access the BIOS utility. If you enter the password incorrectly, a warning message appears. Try again and press . • When the User Password is set and the password on boot parameter is enabled, a prompt appears at boot-up.
Power management - 55 POWER MANAGEMENT This computer has a built-in power management unit that monitors system activity. System activity refers to any activity involving one or more of the following devices: keyboard, mouse, hard disk, peripherals connected to the computer, and video memory. If no activity is detected for a period of time, the computer stops some or all of these devices in order to conserve energy.
- Power management 5. Select Change settings that are currently unavailable. 6. Scroll down and disable Turn on fast startup. 7. Select Save changes.
Battery pack - 57 BATTERY PACK The computer uses a Lithium battery that gives you long use between charges. Battery characteristics The battery is recharged whenever you connect the computer to the AC adapter. Your computer supports charge-in-use, enabling you to recharge the battery while you continue to operate the computer. However, recharging with the computer turned off significantly reduces charge time. The battery will come in handy when you travel or during a power failure.
- Battery pack 6. Reconnect the AC adapter and fully charge the battery again. Follow these steps again until the battery has been charged and discharged three times. Use this conditioning process for all new batteries, or if a battery hasn't been used for a long time. If the computer is to be stored for more than two weeks, you are advised to remove the battery pack from the unit. Warning Do not expose battery packs to temperatures below 0° C (32° F) or above 45° C (113° F).
Battery pack - 59 • Store the battery pack in a cool, dry place. The recommended temperature is 10° C (50° F) to 30° C (86° F). Higher temperatures cause the battery to self-discharge faster. • Excessive recharging decreases the battery life. • Look after your AC adapter and battery. Checking the battery level The power meter indicates the current battery level. Rest the cursor over the battery/power icon on the taskbar to see the battery's present charge level.
- Battery pack Situation The AC adapter or a power outlet is unavailable. You have no spare battery pack. Recommended Action 1. Save all necessary files. 2. Close all applications. 3. Turn off the computer. Installing and removing the battery pack Important Before removing the battery from the unit, connect the AC adapter if you want to continue using your computer. Otherwise, turn off the computer first. To install a battery pack: 1.
Traveling with your computer - 61 TRAVELING WITH YOUR COMPUTER This section gives you tips and hints to consider when moving around or traveling with your computer. Disconnecting from the desktop Follow these steps to disconnect your computer from external accessories: 1. Save any open files. 2. Remove discs from optical drive. 3. Shut down the computer or put it into Sleep or Hibernate mode. 4. Close the display cover. 5. Disconnect the cord from the AC adapter. 6.
- Traveling with your computer You can put the computer in Sleep mode by pressing + or by closing the display. When you are ready to use the computer again, open the display and, if necessary, press and release the power button. Note The computer may enter Hibernation or Deep Sleep mode after being in Sleep mode for a period of time. What to bring to meetings If your meeting is relatively short, you probably do not need to bring anything with you other than your computer.
Traveling with your computer - 63 What to take with you Unless you have some items at home, take the following items with you: • AC adapter and power cord. • A spare battery • The printed Setup Guide. Special considerations Follow these guidelines to protect your computer while traveling to and from work: • Minimize the effects of temperature changes by keeping the computer with you.
- Traveling with your computer Traveling with the computer Important Check with your airline for any special requirements for travelling with Lithium batteries. When you are moving within a larger distance, for instance, from your office building to a client's office building or traveling locally. Preparing the computer Prepare the computer as if you were taking it home. Make sure that the battery in the computer is charged.
Traveling with your computer - 65 When you are moving from country to country. Preparing the computer Prepare the computer as you would normally prepare it for traveling. What to bring with you Bring the following items with you: • AC adapter. • Power cords that are appropriate for your destination(s). • Spare, fully-charged battery pack(s). • Additional printer driver files if you plan to use another printer. • Proof of purchase, in case you need to show it to customs officials.
- Ports and connectors...
Memory card reader - 67 MEMORY CARD READER Connectivity options Your computer has a card reader and other ports/jacks that allow you to connect peripheral devices to your computer. For instructions on how to connect different external devices to the computer, read the following section. Memory card reader Memory cards are used in a wide selection of digital cameras, PDAs, MP3 players and mobile phones. Inserting a memory card 1.
- Memory card reader (2 TB). Your computer provides an SDHC or SDXC compatible card reader. Note SDXC memory cards can only be used in an SDXC-compatible reader; SD and SDHC cards can be used in either type. Removing a card from a memory card reader 1. Click on Show hidden icons arrow in the Notification Area (next to the clock). 2. Click on the Safely Remove Hardware icon. 3. Click on Eject SD Card (or the name of the device). 4. Wait until a Safe to Remove Hardware message is displayed. 5.
Video and audio connectors - 69 VIDEO AND AUDIO CONNECTORS Connect to a monitor with a VGA or DVI port (the type of connection supported depends on your computer’s configuration). The appropriate cable is usually included with the monitor. Follow these steps to connect an monitor to your computer: 1. Check that the computer is powered off and the monitor power switch is turned off. 2. Attach the video cable to the monitor port on the computer. Secure the cable connection with the screws provided. 3.
- HDMI HDMI HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) is a high-quality, digital audio/video interface. HDMI allows you to connect any compatible digital audio/video source, such as your computer, a set-top box, DVD player, and audio/video receiver to any compatible digital audio and/or video monitor, such as a digital television (DTV) with a single cable. The single cable keeps everything neat and tidy while ensuring easy connection and the best audio and visual quality.
Universal Serial Bus (USB) - 71 UNIVERSAL SERIAL BUS (USB) The USB port is a high-speed port which allows you to connect USB peripherals, such as a mouse, an external keyboard, additional storage (external hard disks), or any other compatible device. Note Two USB standards are currently available on Acer computers: USB 2.0 (High-speed USB) and USB 3.0 (SuperSpeed USB). USB 2.0 ports on Acer computers have a black tongue in the port, while USB 3.0 ports have a blue tongue. For best performance, USB 3.
- Got a question? In this section you will find: • • • • • Frequently asked questions Tips for using Windows 8.
Frequently asked questions - 73 F R E Q U E N TL Y ASKED QUESTIONS The following is a list of possible situations that may arise during the use of your computer. Easy solutions are provided for each one. I turned on the power, but the computer does not start or boot up. Look at the power indicator: • If it is not lit, no power is being supplied to the computer. Check the following: • If you are using on the battery, it may be low and unable to power the computer.
- Frequently asked questions • The volume may be muted. Look at the volume control (speaker) icon in the taskbar. If it is crossed-out, click the icon and deselect the Mute all option. • The volume level may be too low. Check the volume from the volume control (speaker) icon in the taskbar. You can also use the volume control buttons to adjust the volume. • If headphones, earphones or external speakers are connected to the headphone jack on the computer, the internal speakers automatically turn off.
Frequently asked questions - 75 I want to restore my computer to its original settings. Note If your system is the multilingual version, the operating system and language you choose when you first turn on the system will be the only option for future recovery operations. This recovery process helps you restore the C: drive with the original software content that is installed when you purchased your computer. Warning Your C: drive will be reformatted and all data will be erased.
- Frequently asked questions If the country you are traveling in does not have an Acer-authorized ITW service site, you can still get in contact with our offices worldwide. Please visit www.acer.com. Before you call Please have the following information available when you call Acer for online service, and please be at your computer when you call. With your support, we can reduce the amount of time a call takes and help solve your problems efficiently.
F r e qu e nt ly a sk Frequently asked questions - 77 Tips and hints for using Windows 8.1 We know this is a new operating system that will take some getting used to, so we've created a few pointers to help you get started. How do I get to Start? Press the Windows key; click the Start button on the desktop taskbar; or move your cursor into the upper right-hand corner of the screen and click the Start charm. Where’s the Start button? The Start button will appear in the desktop taskbar.
- Frequently asked questions Can I boot directly to the desktop? Yes, you can, just follow these steps: 1. Go to the desktop. 2. Right-click the taskbar and select Properties from the menu that opens. 3. From the Navigation tab, check Go to the desktop instead of Start when I sign in. How do I jump between apps? Move your cursor to the upper left-hand corner of the screen and click the thumbnail of the app that you want to jump to.
Frequently asked questions - 79 Can I personalize the Lock screen? You can personalize the lock screen with a different image, to run a slideshow of images, or to show you quick status and notifications to suit your personal needs. To change the background, move your cursor to the upper right-hand corner of the screen and click Settings > Change PC settings > PC & devices > Lock screen.
- Frequently asked questions How do I set the alarm? Your computer can act as an alarm clock. Start typing ’Alarms’ to search for the Alarms app. 1. Set the time using the sliders on the left-hand side of the screen. 2. Select AM or PM. 3. Choose which days the alarm should go off. 4. Select the notification. 5. Save the alarm by clicking the Save icon in the upper right-hand corner. Delete Save Hour Minutes Note The alarm will only sound if your computer is awake at the set time.
Frequently asked questions - 81 Can I make tiles bigger or smaller? Right-click anywhere on Start to open the Customize menu, click the tile(s) you wish to resize and click Resize. Select a size from the menu that appears. How do I close an app? Move your cursor to the top of the screen. You will see it change to a hand, click and drag the hand downwards past the half-way point of the screen.
- Frequently asked questions How do I install apps? You can download Windows Store apps from Store. You will need to have a Microsoft ID to purchase and download apps from Store. I can't find apps like Notepad and Paint! Where are they? Move your cursor to the upper right-hand corner of the screen and click Search, type the name of the app you would like to open using the pop-up keyboard. Alternatively, open All apps and scroll to ’Windows Accessories’ to see the list of legacy programs.
Frequently asked questions - 83 Microsoft account, you'll connect your PC to the people, files, and devices you care about. Do I need one? You do not need a Microsoft ID to use Windows 8.1, but it makes life easier because you can sync data across different machines you sign in to using a Microsoft ID. How do I get one? If you've already installed Windows 8.
F R E Q U E N T LY 84 - Frequently asked questions Troubleshooting This chapter shows you how to deal with common system problems. Read it before calling a technician if a problem occurs. Solutions to more serious problems require opening up the computer. Do not attempt to open the computer yourself; contact your dealer or authorized service center for assistance. Troubleshooting tips This computer incorporates an advanced design that delivers onscreen error message reports to help you solve problems.
Frequently asked questions - 85 Error messages Keyboard error or no keyboard connected Keyboard interface error Memory size mismatch Corrective action Contact your dealer or an authorized service center. Contact your dealer or an authorized service center. Press (during POST) to enter the BIOS utility, then press Exit in the BIOS utility to reboot. If you still encounter problems after going through the corrective measures, please contact your dealer or an authorized service center for assistance.
- Internet and online security INTERNET AND ONLINE SECURITY First steps on the net Protecting your computer It is vital to protect your computer from viruses and attacks over the Internet (see Security on page 90). A comprehensive Internet security program is offered when you first start your computer. You should activate this protection as soon as possible, certainly before you connect to the Internet.
Internet and online security - 87 Internet as the connection speed is low and connection time is typically charged per hour. DSL (e.g. ADSL) DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) is an ‘always-on’ connection that runs over the phone line. As DSL and phone do not use the same frequencies, you can use your telephone at the same time you are connected to the Internet (this requires a ‘micro-filter’ on each telephone socket to avoid interference).
- Internet and online security Network connections A LAN (Local Area Network) is a group of computers (for example, within an office building or home) that share a common communications line and resources. When you set up a network, you can share files, peripheral devices (such as a printer) and an Internet connection. You can set up a LAN using wired technologies (such as Ethernet) or wireless technologies (such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth).
Internet and online security - 89 point/router for detailed setup instructions. Network cable (RJ45) A network cable (also called RJ45 cable) is used to connect the host computer to the access point (see illustration below); this type of cable may also be used to connect peripheral devices to the access point. Wireless adapter An internal wireless adapter is normally already installed in your computer. A button or controls in Windows allow you to activate or deactivate the adapter.
- Internet and online security Surf the Net! To surf the Internet, you need a program called an Internet browser. Internet Explorer provides an easy and secure web browsing experience. As soon as you have your Internet access installed and you are connected, from Start, click the Internet Explorer tile or the icon located on the desktop and take your Internet experience to a new level! Acer website To get you started why not visit our website, www.acer.com.
Internet and online security - 91 computer in various ways, using up resources or clogging up a network. Note Acer guarantees that your computer was 100% virus free at the time of purchase and does not cover damages due to viruses. What is spyware? Spyware refers to generally unwanted programs that are downloaded onto your computer while connected to the Internet, often without you knowing it.
- Internet and online security would allow it (i.e. a game connecting to a multi-player server or an encyclopaedia making a content update). How to protect your computer Cybercrime prevention can be straight-forward - when armed with a little technical advice and common sense, many attacks can be avoided. In general, online criminals are trying to make their money as quickly and easily as possible.
Internet and online security - 93 The next line of defense many times is your antivirus software, which monitors all online activities such as email messages and Web browsing and protects an individual from viruses, worms, Trojan horse and other types of malicious programs. Your antivirus and antispyware software should be configured to update itself, and it should do so every time you connect to the Internet.
- Internet and online security of your online accounts, one of the first steps you can take is to change your password. Protect your personal information Exercise caution when sharing personal information such as your name, home address, phone number, and email address online. To take advantage of many online services, you will inevitably have to provide personal information in order to handle billing and shipping of purchased goods.
Internet and online security - 95 • Pay attention to privacy policies on Web sites and in software. It is important to understand how an organization might collect and use your personal information before you share it with them. • Guard your email address. Spammers and "phishers" sometimes send millions of messages to email addresses that may or may not exist in hopes of finding a potential victim.
- Internet and online security that something bad may have happened and you should take necessary action. Protect your computer with Windows security tools Windows provides a variety of protection applications. Windows Updates If you have an active Internet connection, Windows can check for important updates for your computer and install them automatically.
Playing Blu-Ray or DVD movies - 97 P L A Y IN G B L U -R A Y OR DVD M O V I ES If your computer is equipped with a Blu-Ray or DVD drive, you can play movies on your computer or on a high-definition TV via the HDMI port. 1. Insert the disc into the drive. 2. After a few seconds, the movie will start playing. 3. If the movie does not start playing, open your movie playback program and open the disc from the File menu.
