-1 NITRO DESKTOP COMPUTER USER’S MANUAL
- © 2018. All Rights Reserved. NITRO Desktop Computer Covers: Tower models This revision: October 2018 Important This manual contains proprietary information that is protected by copyright laws. The information contained in this manual is subject to change without notice. Some features described in this manual may not be supported depending on the Operating System version. Images provided herein are for reference only and may contain information or features that do not apply to your computer.
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.................................... 7 Cleaning and servicing..................................................
Getting started...
First things first - 5 F I R S T T HI N G S F I R S T 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. For more on how your computer can help you to be more productive, please refer to the User’s Manual.
- First things first • Right-click the Windows Start button > Shut down or sign out > Shut down. 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 Taking care of your AC adapter Here are some ways to take care of your AC adapter: • Do not connect the adapter to any other device. • 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.
- Recovery RECOVERY If you are having trouble with your computer, and the frequently asked questions (see Got a question? on page 28) do not help, you can recover your computer. This section describes the recovery tools available on your computer. Acer provides Acer Care Center, which allows you to reset your PC, refresh your PC, or create a factory default backup. If you cannot access Acer Care Center, click Settings in the Start menu, select Update & Security and then click Recovery.
Recovery - 9 5. Everything on the drive will be deleted. Click Create to continue. 6. You will be shown the backup progress on the screen. 7. Follow the process until it completes. 8. Unplug the USB drive and label it clearly. Important Write a unique, descriptive label on the backup, such as 'Windows Recovery Backup'. Make sure you keep the backup in a safe place that you will remember. Backing up your wireless and LAN drivers Back up your wireless and LAN drivers.
- Recovery 3. Select Keep my files to refresh your PC and reinstall your operating system without removing your personal files. Click Next to continue. Important If you have apps installed on your PC, they will be removed. 4. Resetting the PC will reinstall Windows, change settings back to their factory defaults and remove all preinstalled apps and programs without removing your personal files. Click Reset to continue. 5. You will be shown the reset progress on the screen.
Recovery - 11 Select Remove files and clean the drive if you are not keeping your computer. This process will take longer, but will be more secure. Warning Selecting "Remove files and clean the drive" will remove all of your personal files and accounts, along with pre-existing drivers that may affect your Windows installation. 5. Click Reset to continue. 6. You will be shown the reset progress on the screen. The screen will turn off during the reset process. 7.
- Connecting to the Internet CONNECTING TO THE INTERNET This chapter includes general information on types of connections, and getting connected to the internet. For detailed information, please refer to Network connections on page 40. 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 - 13 2. Click Network icon in the notification area. Note If Wi-Fi is turned off, please click Wi-Fi tile to turn it on. 3. You will see a list of available wireless networks. Select the one you wish to use. 4. Once you select a wireless network, select Connect. 5. If required, enter the network’s password.
Keeping your computer and data safe...
Securing your computer - 15 SECURING YOUR COMPUTER 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 Enter to use the computer. If you enter the password incorrectly, a warning message appears. Try again and press Enter. 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.
BIOS utility - 17 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 F2 while the computer logo is being displayed.
- Power management P OWER M A N A G E M E N T 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.
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 • For optimal performance, use USB 3.0-certified devices. • 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 Stereo Quadrophonic 5.
- 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.
USB Type-C port - 23 U S B T YPE - C PORT A USB Type-C port is a connector that allows you to easily connect USB Type-C peripherals, such as additional storage (e.g. an external drive), or any other compatible device. The Type-C port is reversable; connectors may be inserted with either side up. Note On Acer computers USB Type-C ports support up to USB 3.1 (SuperSpeed USB, 5 Gbps).
- 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.
SD card reader - 25 S D C A R D READER SD (Secure Digital) cards are used in a wide selection of digital cameras, tablets, media players and cellular phones. Inserting an SD card 1. Align the card so that the connector points towards the port, with the connectors facing down. 2. Carefully slide the card into the port. If you find you need to use any force to insert the card, try reorientating the card slightly. 3. Push the card until it clicks into place.
- SD card reader contain up to 2048 GB (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.
Video and audio connectors - 27 V ID EO A N D A U D I O C O N N E C T O R S Add an external monitor to your computer via a video port. The type of port available depends on your computer’s configuration. Connecting a monitor 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. 3. Connect the monitor power cable and plug it into a properly grounded wall outlet. 4.
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 - 29 FREQUENTLY 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. Check if power is being supplied to the computer (if your computer has a power indicator, it will be off); if there is no power, check the following: • If you are using on the battery, it may be low and unable to power the computer.
- Frequently asked questions No audio is heard from the computer. Check the following: • The volume may be muted. Look at the volume control (speaker) icon in the taskbar. If it is crossed-out, click the icon and drag the slider to the right to increase the volume. • 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.
Frequently asked questions - 31 Warning Your C: drive will be reformatted and all data will be erased. It is important to back up all data files before using this option. Before performing a restore operation, please check the BIOS settings. 1. If there is a D2D Recovery setting in Main, make sure it is Enabled. 2. Exit the BIOS utility and save changes. The system will reboot. Note To access the BIOS utility, press F2 when you see the Acer logo during boot up.
F r e q u e n t ly a sk 32 - 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. Selecting it will open Start where you can launch apps.
Frequently asked questions - 33 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 > Lock screen. From here you can: • Select a background image for the lock screen • Turn the Slideshow on or off • Select lock screen apps.
- Frequently asked questions Can I make tiles bigger or smaller? Yes, you can. Right-click on a tile and select Resize. Select a size from the menu that appears. Can I change the screen resolution? Yes, you can. Move your cursor to the lower left-hand corner of the screen and type 'Resolution' in the text box to display the results; select Change the resolution of the display. Alternatively, you can also right-click anywhere on the desktop and select Display settings > Display.
Frequently asked questions - 35 Where are my apps? Move your cursor to the lower left-hand corner of the screen and click search box, 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 list 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 l y a s ke d q ue s t io n s Frequently asked questions - 37 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.
- Frequently asked questions Error messages Corrective action Press F2 (during POST) to enter the BIOS utility, then press Memory size mismatch 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 - 39 I N T E R N E T A N D ONLI NE S E C U R I T Y First steps on the net Protecting your computer It is vital to protect your computer from viruses and attacks over the internet (see Internet security software on page 42). 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 connection is recommended only if you have limited use of the 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 - 41 Wireless networks A wireless LAN or WLAN is a wireless local area network, which may link two or more computers without using wires. Setting up a wireless 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.
- Internet and online security Wireless adapter Most computers feature a wireless module and Wi-Fi button that turns the network connection on or off. You may also turn your wireless network on or off, or control what is shared over the network with the network management options. Warning Using wireless devices while flying in aircraft may be prohibited.
Internet and online security - 43 Select Acer computers include protection by Norton Security Norton Security is pre-installed on select Acer computers, protecting your identity and financial data from viruses, spyware, malware and other online threats. Learn more about how to stay safe online and how to stay protected after your introductory subscription ends. Note Specifications vary depending on model or Operating System.
- Internet and online security Don't be fooled if someone calls your phone A tech support scam is a form of online fraud where people call you on the phone saying they're Technical Support from a trusted company like Norton or Microsoft and that you have a virus. The main motive behind these scams is to extort money from the victim. Cybercriminals can also install malware such as keylogging software or backdoor Trojans in order to gain access to personal information.
Internet and online security - 45 Botnets A botnet is a string of infected, connected computers coordinated together to perform a task. Botnets gain access to your machine through some piece of malicious coding. Once the software is downloaded, the botnet will now contact its master computer and let it know that everything is ready to go. Now your computer, phone, tablet, or IoT device is entirely under the control of the person who created the botnet.
- Internet and online security These attacks are akin to eavesdropping. Data is sent from point A (computer) to point B (server/website), and an attacker can get in-between these transmissions. They then set up tools programmed to "listen in" on transmissions, intercept data that is specifically targeted as valuable, and capture the data, such as your login credentials and passwords. Use a virtual private network (VPN) to ensure your privacy and anonymity are protected when you use public Wi-Fi.
Internet and online security - 47 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. However, do not blame every computer problem on a virus! If you suspect your computer is infected, the first thing to do is update, if you have not already done so, and run your antivirus and anti-spyware software.
- Playing Blu-Ray or DVD movies P LAYING B L U - R AY OR D V D MOVI 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.
