User’s Manual
- © 2016. All Rights Reserved. Predator 17 X Covers: GX-792 This revision: October 2016 Sign up for an Acer ID and enjoy great benefits Open the Acer Portal app to sign up for an Acer ID or sign in if you already have an Acer ID. There are three great reasons for you to get an Acer ID: • Create your own connected world. • Get the latest offers and product information. • Register your device for quick, personalized customer support. For more information, please visit the Acer BYOC website: www.acer.
Table of contents - 3 TABLE OF CONTENTS First things first 6 Your guides .................................................... 6 Basic care and tips for using your computer........................................................... 7 Turning your computer off....................... Taking care of your computer................ Taking care of your AC adapter............ Cleaning and servicing ................................ 7 7 8 8 Your Predator notebook tour 9 Screen view ...............................
- Table of contents How do I turn off my computer? ...... 75 How do I unlock my computer? ......... 76 How do I set the alarm? ......................... 77 Where are my apps?................................. 78 What is a Microsoft ID (account)? ... 79 How do I check for Windows updates? ........................................................... 79 Where can I get more information? 80 Troubleshooting ........................................ 81 Troubleshooting tips .................................
Getting started...
- First things first FIRST T H I N G S F I R ST We would like to thank you for making this Predator notebook your choice for meeting your mobile computing needs. Your guides To help you use your Predator notebook, 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 - 7 Basic care and tips for using your computer Turning your computer off To turn the power off, do any of the following: • Use the Windows shutdown command: Press the Windows key or select the Windows Start button, select Power > Shut down. • Right-click the Windows Start button > Shut down or sign out > Shut down.
- First things first • • • • • • • Do not expose the computer to rain or moisture. Do not spill water or any liquid on the computer. Do not subject the computer to heavy shock or vibration. Do not expose the computer to dust or dirt. Never place objects on top of the computer. Do not slam the computer display when you close it. Never place the computer on uneven surfaces. 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.
Your Predator notebook tour - 9 YOUR PREDATOR NOTEBOOK TOUR After setting up your computer as illustrated in the Setup Guide, let us show you around your new Predator computer. Screen view 1 2 3 4 # Icon Item 1 Webcam 2 Microphones 3 4 Screen Speakers Description Web camera for video communication. A light next to the webcam indicates that the webcam is active. Internal stereo digital microphones for sound recording. Displays computer output. Deliver stereo audio output.
- Your Predator notebook tour Keyboard view 1 7 2 3 6 4 5 # 1 Icon Item Hard drive indicator Battery indicator Power indicator 2 Keyboard Description Indicates when the computer’s hard drive is active. Indicates the computer’s battery status. Charging: The light shows amber when the battery is charging. Fully charged: The light shows red when in AC mode. Indicates the computer’s power status. For entering data into your computer. See "Using the keyboard" on page 16.
Your Predator notebook tour - 11 # 3 4 5 6 7 Icon Item Description Keys that allow you to change computer settings to suit your current game. Programmable You can define settings for each keys key from PredatorSense; please refer to the PredatorSense chapter in your User’s Manual. Touchpad Touch-sensitive pointing device. The left and right buttons Click buttons function like the left and right (left and right) mouse buttons. Turns the built-in touchpad and Windows key on and off.
- Your Predator notebook tour Left view 1 2 # 3 4 Icon Item Description 1 DC-in jack Connects to an AC adapter. 2 USB ports Connect to USB devices. Connects to an external microphone for recording audio. Connects to audio devices (e.g., speakers, headphones) Accepts one Secure Digital (SD or SDHC) card. Only one card can operate at a time. Mic-in jack 3 4 Headset/ speaker jack SD card reader USB 3.0 information • • • • USB 3.0 compatible ports are blue. Compatible with USB 3.
Your Predator notebook tour - 13 Right view 1 # 1 2 3 4 5 6 2 3 4 5 6 Icon Item Description Connects to USB devices with a USB Type-C / USB Type-C connector. Thunderbolt 3 Supports Thunderbolt™ 3, port displays. USB port with power-off Connects to USB devices. charging USB port Connects to USB devices. Supports high-definition digital HDMI port video connections. External Connects to a display device display using the high-definition (DisplayPort) DisplayPort interface.
- Your Predator notebook tour Base view 6 1 2 3 Su bw oo fe r 5 4 # Icon Item 1 Ventilation and cooling fan 2 Main storage and memory compartment 3 Battery reset pinhole 4 5 Speakers Subwoofer Description Allows the computer to stay cool. Do not cover or obstruct the openings. Houses the computer’s main storage and memory. You may upgrade your computer’s main storage and memory. Acer recommends asking an approved service center to do this.
Your Predator notebook tour - 15 # 6 Icon Item Description Reduces dust accumulation, Acer enabling the components to DustDefender stay cool, perform better and last longer.
- Using the keyboard USING THE KEYBOARD The keyboard has full-sized keys and a separate numeric keypad, separate cursor, lock, Windows, function and special keys. Lock keys The keyboard has three lock keys which you can toggle on and off. Lock key Caps Lock Num Lock Scroll Lock Fn + F12 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 - 17 Hotkey Icon Function Fn + F5 Display toggle Fn + F6 Display off Touchpad toggle Speaker toggle Keyboard backlight toggle Fn + F7 Fn + F8 Fn + F9 Fn + F12 Fn + Fn + Fn + Fn + Fn + Home Fn +Pg Up Fn +Pg Dn Fn + End Scr Lk Description Switches display output between the display screen, external monitor (if connected) and both. Turns the display screen backlight off to save power. Press any key to return. Turns the built-in touchpad on and off. Turns the speakers on and off.
- Using the keyboard Windows keys The keyboard has two keys that perform Windows-specific functions. Key Windows key Application key Description Pressed alone it returns to the Start screen or to return to the last open app. It can also be used with other keys for special functions, please check Windows Help. This key has the same effect as clicking the right mouse button; it opens the application's context menu.
Using the Precision Touchpad - 19 USING THE PRECISION T O U CH P A D The touchpad controls the arrow (or 'cursor') on the screen. As you slide your finger across the touchpad, the cursor will follow this movement. The Precision Touchpad (PTP) is designed to provide a more uniform, smooth, and accurate touchpad experience. Many applications support precision touchpad gestures that use one or more fingers, however, some gestures may not be supported by the specific application or program you are using.
- Using the Precision Touchpad Two-finger slide Swiftly scroll through web pages, documents and playlists by placing two fingers on the touchpad and moving both in any direction. Two-finger pinch Zoom in and out of photos, maps and documents with a simple finger-andthumb gesture. Three-finger press Lightly tap the touchpad with three fingers to open Cortana (if your computer supports Cortana) or open the Action Center (if your computer does not support Cortana).
Using the Precision Touchpad - 21 Changing touchpad settings To change the touchpad settings to suit your personal requirements, please do the following. 1. In the icon tray in the lower right-hand corner of the screen, select the Notifications icon to open the Notifications pane. 2. Select All settings. 3. Select Devices > Mouse & touchpad. 4. Now you can adjust the settings to suit your personal needs.
- Using the Precision Touchpad moving if you accidentally tap the touchpad with your palm while working. Scroll down to see more settings.
Recovery - 23 RECOVERY If you are having trouble with your computer, and the frequently asked questions (see Got a question? on page 70) do not help, you can recover your computer. This section describes the recovery tools available on your computer. Predator provides Acer Care Center, which allows you to reset your PC, refresh your PC, or create a factory default backup. Note Acer Care Center is only available with a pre-installed Windows operating system.
- Recovery 2. Select the Backup tab and click Get Started for Create Factory Default Backup to open the Recovery Drive window. 3. Make sure Backup system files to the recovery drive is selected and click Next. 4. Plug in the USB drive and wait for the PC to detect the USB drive then click Next.
Recovery - 25 • Since the recovery backup requires at least 8 GB of storage after formatting, it is recommended to use a USB drive with a capacity of 16 GB or larger. 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. After creating the recovery backup, you can choose to delete the recovery information on your computer.
- Recovery Backing up your wireless and LAN drivers Back up your wireless and LAN drivers. You can use these backups to install the wireless and LAN drivers if you install another operating system. 1. From Start, select All apps then Predator. Select Predator Recovery Management in the list of Predator apps. 2. Select the Backup tab and click Get started for Backup wireless and LAN drivers. Choose a folder to save your drivers and select OK.
Recovery - 27 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 Reset this PC and remove everything 1. From Start, select All apps then Predator. Select Predator Recovery Management in the list of Predator apps. 2. Select the Restore tab and click Get Started to Choose an option. 3. Select Remove everything to reset your PC back to its factory default. This process will reinstall your operating system and remove all of your personal files, apps, and settings. 4. Select Just remove my files if you are keeping your computer.
Recovery - 29 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. The screen will turn back on when it is installing Windows.
- Using a Bluetooth connection USING A B L UE T O O T H CONNECTION Bluetooth is a technology enabling you to transfer data wirelessly over short distances between many different types of devices. Bluetooth-enabled 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 - 31 Bluetooth on your computer is disabled by default. To enable your computer’s Bluetooth adapter, do the following: 1. Press the Windows key or select the Windows Start button > Settings > Devices > Bluetooth, and click the toggle under Bluetooth to enable/disable it. 2. Your computer will automatically start searching for devices, as well as make itself visible to other devices. 3. Select the device you wish to pair from the list of discovered devices, and select Pair.
- Using a Bluetooth connection 4. 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"). Consult your device’s user manual for more information.
Connecting to the Internet - 33 C O N N E CT I N G TO THE 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 85. 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 networks during setup. Select your network and enter the password if required. Predator notebook computers feature an Airplane mode hotkey that turns the network connection on or off. You can use the network 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.
Connecting to the Internet - 35 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 6. Once you select a wireless network, select Connect. 7. If required, enter the network’s password. Connecting with a cable 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.
Connecting to the Internet - 37 (Refer to the image below.) Then, you'll be ready to get online. Connecting to a cellular network If your computer has a SIM slot, you can connect to the internet using a cellular phone network. To do this, you must have a compatible SIM card and a data contract with your cellular provider. Contact your cellular provider for more information on connecting to the internet using a cellular network.
- Predator Bluelight Shield PREDATOR BLUELIGHT SHIELD Predator Bluelight Shield can be enabled to reduce the bluelight emissions from the screen to protect your eyes. To configure Predator Bluelight Shield, Search for ’Predator Quick Access’. From here you can toggle Predator Bluelight Shield on or off, and you can choose from four different modes to fit your needs: No.
PredatorSense - 39 PREDATORSENSE PredatorSense helps you to gain the edge in your games by allowing you to overclock processors, record macros, and assign them to programmable keys. Multiple profiles allow you to quickly switch between key functions. PredatorSense also allows you to control the colors of the keyboard backlight zones, turn sticky keys on or off and change multimedia modes.
- PredatorSense Overclocking Your computer’s CPU and GPU support overclocking; you may use PredatorSense to boost graphics and processing performance. Three levels are available: Normal (no overclocking), Faster and Turbo. Note The AC adapter must be connected and battery charge must be over 30% in order to overclock your computer.
PredatorSense - 41 PredatorSense settings Click the Settings icon to change settings for your Predator system. You can set the fan to maximum speed or disable sticky keys. The Multimedia Mode Settings buttons at the bottom of the screen automatically adjust the system’s display and audio settings for different scenarios. Assign an action to a hotkey Click Edit to launch the Profile management page; open the Key assignment tab.
- PredatorSense Click Edit next to the preferred hotkey and select an action for that hotkey to perform. Click Apply. Create a new profile From the main page, click Edit to launch the Profile management page; open the Key assignment tab. Click the + icon beneath the Hotkey profiles list to add a new profile. The new profile will be named Profile1.
PredatorSense - 43 Double-click the name to enter a new name for the profile. Click the arrows above or below the P icon to adjust each group of functions for the hotkeys. The P icon color corresponds to the color the physical P key will assume when that group is active. Record a macro Click Edit to launch the Profile management page; open the Macro tab.
- PredatorSense Click the Menu bar to show a list of available macros, then click + New macro to record a new macro. You will be asked to enter a name for the new macro. Click OK, then click Start recording. The macro recorder will record your keystrokes. When you have finished, click Stop recording to save the macro.
PredatorSense - 45 Adjust the keyboard backlight The keyboard backlight is divided into four zones, which you can turn on or off independently. Click Edit to launch the Profile management page; open the Lighting tab. Click the slider under each zone to turn the backlight on or off for that zone.
Keeping your computer and data safe...
Securing your computer - 47 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. Security features include hardware and software locks — a security notch and passwords. Using a computer security lock The computer comes with a computer 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 password checkpoints on boot-up and resume from Hibernation (if available) for maximum security. Important Do not forget your Supervisor Password! If you forget your password, please get in touch with your dealer or an authorized service center. 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.
BIOS utility - 49 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 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 - 51 5. Select Change settings that are currently unavailable. 6. Scroll down and disable Turn on fast startup. 7. Select Save changes.
- Battery pack BATTERY PACK The computer uses an embedded 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 - 53 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. Warning Do not expose battery packs to temperatures below 0° C (32° F) or above 45° C (113° F). Extreme temperatures may adversely affect the battery pack. The battery conditioning process ensures your battery accepts the maximum possible charge.
- Battery pack • 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-low warning When using battery power pay attention to the power meter. Important Connect the AC adapter as soon as possible after the battery-low warning appears.
Traveling with your computer - 55 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 Press the Windows key + C, click Settings > Power then click Shut Down Or: You can put the computer in Sleep mode by pressing the Sleep hotkey 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.
Traveling with your computer - 57 • Pack the computer in a protective case that can prevent the computer from sliding around and cushion it if it should fall. Warning Avoid packing items next to the top cover of the computer. Pressure against the top cover can damage the screen. What to take with you Unless you have some items at home, take the following items with you: • AC adapter and power cord. • The printed Setup Guide.
- Traveling with your computer a second AC adapter, you can avoid carrying the extra weight to and from home. If you use your computer at home for significant periods of time, you might also want to add an external keyboard, monitor or mouse. Traveling with the computer Important Check with your airline for any special requirements for travelling with Lithium batteries.
Traveling with your computer - 59 • If possible, have the computer inspected by hand. Airport security X-ray machines are safe, but do not put the computer through a metal detector. Traveling internationally Important Check with your airline for any special requirements for travelling with Lithium batteries. When you are moving from country to country. Preparing the computer Prepare the computer as you would normally prepare it for traveling.
- Traveling with your computer compatible with the local AC voltage. Do not use converter kits sold for appliances to power the computer. • If you are using the modem, check if the modem and connector are compatible with the telecommunications system of the country you are traveling in.
Ports and connectors...
- 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 Predator computers: USB 2.0 (High-speed USB) and USB 3.0 (SuperSpeed USB). USB 2.0 ports on Predator computers have a black tongue in the port, while USB 3.0 ports have a blue tongue.
Universal Serial Bus (USB) - 63 or turned off. Additionally, you can use a USB hub to connect multiple devices to a single USB port. Important When removing a USB storage device, you should right-click on the USB icon in the Windows task bar and select "Eject " to tell the operating system to stop using the device before removing it. Failure to do this may result in data loss or damage to your peripheral.
- Thunderbolt 3 port THUNDERBOLT 3 PORT A Thunderbolt 3 port allows you to easily connect devices with a Type-C connector to your computer, such as additional storage (e.g. an external drive), displays, or any other compatible device. Up to six devices, including displays, can be connected in series to a single Thunderbolt port. The Thunderbolt connection uses a USB Type-C port and is compatible with Thunderbolt, USB, DisplayPort and power on USB-C devices.
Thunderbolt 3 port - 65 Important When removing a USB storage device, you should right-click on the USB icon in the Windows task bar and select "Eject " to tell the operating system to stop using the device before removing it. Failure to do this may result in data loss or damage to your peripheral.
- Memory card reader MEMORY CARD READER Memory cards are used in a wide selection of digital cameras, tablets, MP3 players and mobile phones. Inserting a memory 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.
Video and audio connectors - 67 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.
- Video and audio connectors plugging in an external microphone disables the built-in microphone. Note Some computers have a single "combo" port that allows you to use single-pin headsets with a built-in microphone. These headsets are most commonly used with smartphones.
HDMI - 69 HD M I HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) is a highquality, 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.
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 Predator service information center contact
Frequently asked questions - 71 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 • The computer may be in Sleep or Hibernate mode (if there is a power LED, it will flash). Press and release the power button to resume. 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 deselect the Mute all option. • The volume level may be too low. Check the volume from the volume control (speaker) icon in the taskbar.
Frequently asked questions - 73 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. Check to see if Predator disk-to-disk recovery is enabled or not. 2. If there is a D2D Recovery setting in Main, make sure it is Enabled. 3. Exit the BIOS utility and save changes. The system will reboot.
- Frequently asked questions Before you call Please have the following information available when you call Predator 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. If there are error messages or beeps reported by your computer, write them down as they appear on the screen (or the number and sequence in the case of beeps).
F r e q u en tl y a sk Frequently asked questions - 75 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 How do I unlock my computer? Press the space bar and select a user account icon to unlock the computer. If your account has a password set, you will need to enter the password to continue. 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.
Frequently asked questions - 77 can drag the tile to an existing group on Start. You can give the group(s) a name and arrange the tiles within the groups to suit your needs. 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.
- Frequently asked questions 9. Select On or Off to activate or deactivate the alarm. Hour Minutes Save Delete Note The alarm will only sound if your computer is awake at the set time. 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.
Frequently asked questions - 79 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 lower left-hand corner of the screen and select Search. Type the name of the app you would like to open. Alternatively, open All apps and scroll to ’Windows Accessories’ to see the list of legacy programs.
- Frequently asked questions Where can I get more information? For more information please visit the following pages: • Windows 10 information: go.acer.com/windows-tutorial • Support FAQs: support.acer.
F r eq ue nt ly as k e d qu est i o ns Frequently asked questions - 81 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 Hard disk 0 extended type error I/O parity error 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. Contact your dealer or an authorized service center. Contact your dealer or an authorized service center. Press F2 (during POST) to enter the BIOS utility, then press Exit in the BIOS utility to reboot.
Internet and online security - 83 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 87). 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 your telephone line. With a dial-up connection, you cannot use the modem and the telephone simultaneously on a single phone line. This type of 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.
Internet and online security - 85 device, such as a USB modem or even an appropriately equipped mobile phone. Note If your computer includes a SIM card slot, you require a compatible SIM card and a contract with a cellular provider. Before using the cellular features, check with your service provider to see if any additional charges will be incurred, especially roaming charges.
- Internet and online security Components of a wireless LAN To set up your Wireless network at home you need to have the following: Access point (router) Access points (routers) are two-way transceivers that broadcast data into the surrounding environment. Access points act as a mediator between wired and wireless network. Most routers have a built-in DSL modem that will allow you access to a high speed DSL internet connection.
Internet and online security - 87 Turning on/off a wireless network connection Most computers feature a ‘Wi-Fi’ button that turns the network connection on or off. 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 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. McAfee Internet Security Suite blocks online identity theft, detects and eliminates spyware, removes viruses and internet worms, protects against hackers.
Internet and online security - 89 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 anti-malware software.
- Internet and online security they become available. By regularly updating your computer, you block attackers from being able to take advantage of software flaws (vulnerabilities) that they could otherwise use to break into your system.
Internet and online security - 91 become popular as they offer all the security software needed for online protection in a single package. Many people find using a comprehensive security suite an attractive alternative to installing, configuring and updating several different types of security software. A complete version of McAfee Internet Security Suite is pre-installed on your Predator system. It includes a free trial subscription to protection updates.
- Internet and online security 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. Since not divulging any personal information is rarely possible, the following list contains some advice for how to share personal information safely online: • Keep an eye out for phony email messages.
Internet and online security - 93 in an area requesting you to login or provide other sensitive data. Another sign that you have a secure connection is the small lock icon in the bottom of your web browser (usually the right-hand corner). • 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.
- Internet and online security gone wrong is by reviewing the monthly statements provided by your bank and credit card companies for anything out of the ordinary. Additionally, many banks and services use fraud prevention systems that call out unusual purchasing behavior (i.e. if you live in Texas and all of the sudden start buying refrigerators in Budapest). In order to confirm these out of the ordinary purchases, they might call you and ask you to confirm them.
