-1 Aspire All-in-one Computer User’s Manual
- © 2015. All Rights Reserved. Aspire All-in-one Computer Covers: All-in-one models (non-touch) This revision: July 2015 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 5 Your guides ............................................. 5 Basic care and tips for using your computer.................................................. 5 Turning your computer off........................... 5 Taking care of your computer ..................... 6 Taking care of your AC adapter .................. 6 Cleaning and servicing................................ 7 Connecting to the Internet 8 Connecting to a wireless network............
- Getting started...
First things first - 5 FIRST THINGS FIRST We would like to thank you for making this Acer desktop computer your choice for meeting your computing needs. Your guides To help you use your Acer desktop computer, we have designed a set of guides: First off, the Setup Guide (or Setup Poster) helps you get started with setting up your computer. The Quick Guide introduces you to the basic features and functions of your new computer.
- First things first If you need to power down the computer for a short while, but don’t want to completely shut it down, you can put it to Sleep by doing any of the following: • Press the power button. • Press the sleep hotkey . • Press the Windows key or select the Windows Start button, select Power > Sleep. • Right-click the Windows Start button > Shut down or sign out > Sleep.
First things first - 7 • Do not step on the power cord or place heavy objects on top of it. Route the power cord and any cables away from where people walk. • When unplugging the power cord, do not pull on the cord itself but pull on the plug. • The total ampere ratings of the equipment plugged in should not exceed the ampere rating of the cord if you are using an extension cord. Also, the total current rating of all equipment plugged into a single wall outlet should not exceed the fuse rating.
- Connecting to the Internet CONNECTING T O TH E INTERNET This chapter includes general information on types of connections, and getting connected to the internet. Some of this information may not apply to your computer. For detailed information, please refer to Network connections on page 42. Your computer’s built-in network features make it easy for you to connect your computer to the internet using a cable or a wireless connection.
Connecting to the Internet - 9 management options to turn your wireless network on/off or control what is shared over the network. To connect to a wireless network, please follow the steps below. 1. Ensure you have a wireless router/access point and current internet connection through the ISP of your choice. Make a note of the wireless network’s name and password (if necessary). If you are trying to connect to a public network (such as at a coffeeshop), make sure you have the wireless network’s name.
- Connecting to the Internet 4. Select Network & internet. 5. You will see a list of available wireless networks. Select the one you wish to use.
Connecting to the Internet - 11 6. Once you select a wireless network, select Connect. 7. If required, enter the network’s password.
- Connecting to the Internet Built-in network feature Plug one end of a network cable into the network port on your computer, and the other end into a port on your router. (Refer to the image below.) Then, you'll be ready to get online.
- 13 Keeping your computer and data safe...
- 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 while the computer logo is being displayed.
Securing your computer - 15 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. Using passwords Passwords protect your computer from unauthorized access. Setting these passwords creates several different levels of protection for your computer and data: • Supervisor Password prevents unauthorized entry into the BIOS utility. Once set, you must enter this password to gain access to the BIOS utility.
- Securing your computer • Type the User Password and press to use the computer. If you enter the password incorrectly, a warning message appears. Try again and press . Important You have three chances to enter a password. If you fail to enter the password correctly after three tries, the system halts. Press and hold the power button for four seconds to shut down the computer. Then turn on the computer again, and try again.
Power management - 17 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. Scroll down and disable Turn on fast startup. 6. Select Save changes.
- 19 Ports and connectors...
- Ports and connectors PORTS AND CONNECTORS The tables below indicate what the different icons represent. Note The ports and connectors listed below may not be available on all models.
Ports and connectors - 21 • Defined by the USB 3.0 specification (SuperSpeed USB). Rear panel audio ports The table below indicates the functions of the audio jacks on the rear panel (if available). Icon color Headset Blue Stereo Quadrophonic 5.
- Micro USB M I C R O U SB The USB (Universal Serial Bus) port is a high-speed serial bus which allows you to connect USB peripherals without taking up system resources. The Micro USB port provides a compact port that is compatible with USB 2.0 devices. Note A Micro USB-to-USB adapter is needed to connect to USB devices that use a full-sized connector. The adapter is only included with some models. If your computer is not supplied with one, you will need to purchase one separately.
Memory card reader - 23 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 - 25 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.
HDMI Micro - 27 HDMI MICRO 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) 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.
- 29 Got a question? In this section you will find: • • • • • Frequently asked questions Tips for using Windows 10 Troubleshooting information How to protect yourself while online Where to find Acer service center contact information
- Frequently asked questions 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 - 31 • 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 hotkeys 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 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 - 33 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 34 - Frequently asked questions Tips and hints for using Windows 10 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 or select the Windows Start button on the lower left-hand corner of the screen. Where’s the Start button? The Start button will appear in the desktop taskbar. Selecting it will open Start where you can launch apps.
Frequently asked questions - 35 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, press the Windows key or select the Windows Start button and select Settings > Personalization. From here you can: • Select a background image for the lock screen • Turn the Slide show on or off • Select lock screen apps.
- Frequently asked questions Can I change the screen resolution? Yes, you can. Move your cursor to the lower left-hand corner of the screen and type 'Control Panel' in the text box to display the results; select Control Panel > Adjust screen resolution. Alternatively, you can also right-click anywhere on the desktop and select Screen resolution. How do I set the alarm? Your computer can act as an alarm clock. Search ’Alarms’ and then select Alarms. 1. Select a name for the alarm. 2.
Frequently asked questions - 37 Where are my apps? Move your cursor to the lower left-hand corner of the screen and select Search, start typing the name of the app you would like to open. How do I make an app appear on Start? If you're in All apps and you want to make an app appear on Start, right-click an app and select Pin to Start. How do I remove a tile from Start? Right-click a tile to select it and select Unpin from Start to remove the tile from Start.
- Frequently asked questions Do I need one? You do not need a Microsoft ID to use Windows 10, but it makes life easier because you can sync data across different machines you sign in to using a Microsoft ID.
F R E Q U E N T LY Frequently asked questions - 39 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 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 - 41 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 45). 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 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 - 43 network is easy and allows you to share files, peripheral devices and an internet connection. What are benefits of a wireless network? Mobility Wireless LAN systems allow you and other users of your home network to share access to files and devices connected to the network, for example a printer or scanner. Also you can share an internet connection with other computers in your home.
- Internet and online security 4. Printer 5. Portable computer 6. PDA/Smartphone 7. Network cables (RJ45) Turning on/off a wireless network connection If your computer has wireless access, but does not feature a Communication button, you may turn your wireless network on or off, or control what is shared over the network with the network management options. Search ’HomeGroup’ and then click on HomeGroup. Warning Using wireless devices while flying in aircraft may be prohibited.
Internet and online security - 45 Security You are probably eager to explore everything the internet has to offer. In order for you to be safe online, Acer has pre-installed McAfee Internet Security Suite on your computer. McAfee Internet Security Suite runs quietly in the background to block today’s complex threats and protect your identity when you shop, bank, or browse online.
- Internet and online security However, some kinds of spyware go beyond simple tracking and actually monitor keystrokes and capture passwords, posing a serious security risk. What is malware? Malicious software, also known as malware, is software designed to deliberately harm your computer. For example, viruses, worms, and Trojan horses are malicious software. To help protect your computer against malware, make sure it is using up-to-date antivirus and antimalware software.
Internet and online security - 47 While keeping your computer up-to-date will not protect you from all attacks, it makes it much more difficult for hackers to gain access to your system, blocks many basic and automated attacks completely, and might be enough to discourage less-determined attackers, so they will give up and look for a more vulnerable computer elsewhere.
- Internet and online security Choose strong passwords and keep them safe Passwords are a fact of life on the internet today; we use them for everything from ordering flowers and online banking to logging into our favorite airline web site to see how many miles we have accumulated. The following tips can help make your online experiences secure: • Selecting a password that cannot be easily guessed is the first step toward keeping passwords secure and out of the wrong hands.
Internet and online security - 49 • • • • • information immediately or else something bad will happen. Don't take the bait. Do not click on a link in an email, unless you specifically asked for the email to be sent to you. If you get an email asking you to click on a link to perform an action, such as resetting your password, and you didn’t ask to reset your password, type the website address into your browser by yourself. Don't respond to email messages that ask for personal information.
- Internet and online security Online offers that look too good to be true usually are The old saying "there's no such thing as a free lunch" still rings true today. Supposedly "free" software such as screen savers or smileys, secret investment tricks sure to make you untold fortunes, and contests that you've surprisingly won without entering are the enticing hooks used by companies to grab your attention.
Internet and online security - 51 can improve your computing experience and help protect your computer against new viruses and attacks. How do I know when my computer is at risk? If the Action Center reports an alert, or if your computer behaves erratically, crashes unexpectedly or if some of your programs do not work correctly, your computer may be infected by malicious software.
- Playing Blu-Ray or DVD movies P L A Y IN G B L U -R A Y OR DVD M O VI 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 HDMI. 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.