-1 User’s Manual
- © 2014. All Rights Reserved. Aspire Switch 10 Covers: SW5-012 This revision: May 2014 Regulatory model number: P0JAC2 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 Your Acer computer tour 8 Computer........................................
- Getting started...
First things first - 5 FIRST THINGS FIRST We would like to thank you for making this Acer computer your choice for meeting your mobile computing needs. Your guides To help you use your Acer computer, 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 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 - 7 single wall outlet should not exceed the fuse rating. Cleaning and servicing When cleaning the computer, follow these steps: 1. Turn off the computer. 2. Disconnect the AC adapter. 3. Use a soft, moist cloth. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners. If either of the following occurs: • The computer has been dropped or the body has been damaged; • The computer does not operate normally Frequently asked questions on page 54.
- Your Acer computer tour YOUR ACER COMPUTER TOUR After setting up your device as illustrated in the Setup Guide, let us show you around your new Acer computer. You can enter information into your new computer via the touchscreen. Computer Your device has two components: the computer and the keyboard. The following set of images will describe all of these. The views are labeled as if you are holding the computer with the screen towards you and the camera at the top.
Your Acer computer tour - 9 Bottom view 1 2 # Icon 1 2 Item Keyboard connector Keyboard hook slots Description Connects to the keyboard. Fasten to the keyboard. Left/right views 1 6 7 # 1 Icon 2 8 3 4 5 9 Item Microphone Description Internal microphone for sound recording.
- Your Acer computer tour # Icon 2 Item MicroSD card slot Description Insert a microSD card into this slot. 3 Micro USB connector 4 HDMI micro connector Connects to USB devices. A micro USB to USB adapter is needed to connect to USB devices. When using a USB port, it is recommended to plug in the power adapter. Supports high-definition digital video connections. 5 DC-in jack Connects to an AC adapter. 6 Headset/ speaker jack 7 Power button 8 +/- 9 Connects to audio devices (e.g.
Your Acer computer tour - 11 Keyboard Keyboard front view 3 4 1 d 2 # 1 2 3 4 Icon Item Keyboard Description For entering data into your computer. Touch-sensitive pointing device. The touchpad and selection buttons form a single surface. Press down firmly on the touchpad surface to perform a left click. Touchpad Press down firmly on the lower right corner to perform a right click. Swipe the right-hand edge of the touchpad inward to access the charms. Keyboard hooks Fasten to the computer.
- Your Acer computer tour Keyboard right view 1 # 1 Icon Item USB port Description Connects to USB devices.
Your Acer computer tour - 13 Attaching and detaching the keyboard The Acer Smart Hinge makes attaching and detaching the keyboard fast and easy. Attach the computer with the keyboard by aligning the keyboard hooks and the keyboard hook slots to function as a laptop. Ensure the computer clicks into place.
- Your Acer computer tour Detach the computer from the keyboard by lifting one corner to release it from the keyboard to function as a tablet. You can also attach the computer to the keyboard facing outwards as a display. Ensure the computer clicks into place.
Using the keyboard - 15 USING THE KEYBOARD The keyboard has full-sized keys and an embedded numeric keypad, separate cursor, lock, Windows, function and special keys. Lock keys and embedded numeric keypad The keyboard has three lock keys which you can toggle on and off. Lock key Description When Caps Lock is on, all alphabetic characters Caps Lock typed are in uppercase. When Num Lock is on, the embedded keypad is in numeric mode.
- Using the keyboard Hotkeys The computer employs hotkeys or key combinations to access most of the computer's controls like screen brightness and volume output. To activate hotkeys, press and hold the key before pressing the other key in the hotkey combination. Hotkey Icon Function Description Turns on / off the computer's network devices. + Airplane mode (Network devices vary by configuration.) Puts the computer in Sleep + Sleep mode.
Using the keyboard - 17 Windows keys The keyboard has two keys that perform Windows-specific functions. Key Description Pressed alone it returns to the Start screen or to Windows key 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 Application mouse button; it opens the application's context key menu.
- Touchpad 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. Note The touchpad is sensitive to finger movement; the lighter the touch, the better the response. Please keep the touchpad and your fingers dry and clean. The cursor is controlled by some basic gestures: • Single-finger slide: Slide a finger across the touchpad to move the cursor.
Touchpad - 19 This allows you to control applications with a few simple gestures, such as: • Swipe in from edge: Access Windows tools by swiping into the center of the touchpad from the right or left. • Swipe in from right edge: Toggle the charms. • 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 RECOVERY If you are having trouble with your computer, and the frequently asked questions (see Frequently asked questions on page 58) 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 - 21 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 • 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 - 23 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 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 - 25 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 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 - 27 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 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 - 29 the Windows Store). See Customized Restore with Acer Recovery Management on page 30. 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 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 - 31 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 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 - 33 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.
- Connecting to the Internet CONNECTING T O TH E INTERNET 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 68. 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.
Using a Bluetooth connection - 35 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. Tap the device you wish to add from the list of discovered devices, and tap Pair. 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.
- 37 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 during the POST while the computer logo is being displayed.
Securing your computer - 39 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 - 41 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 - 43 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 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 - 45 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. Data may be lost if the battery is allowed to become fully depleted and the computer shuts down.
- Ports and connectors...
Memory card reader - 47 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 - 49 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 Micro 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) - 51 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.
- 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.
- 53 Got a question? In this section you will find: • • • • • Frequently asked questions Tips for using Windows 8.
- 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 - 55 • 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 2. Make sure the D2D Recovery setting in Main is Enabled. 3. Exit the BIOS utility and save changes. The system will reboot. Note To activate the BIOS utility, press when you see the Acer logo during boot up. For more information, see Recovering your system on page 24. Requesting service International Travelers Warranty (ITW) Your computer is backed by an International Travelers Warranty (ITW) that gives you security and peace of mind when traveling.
F r e qu e nt ly a sk Frequently asked questions - 57 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; tap the Start button on the desktop taskbar; or swipe the right-hand edge of the screen inwards and tap 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. Tap and hold the taskbar until you see the square outline. Select Properties from the menu that opens when you remove your finger. 3. From the Navigation tab, check Go to the desktop instead of Start when I sign in. How do I jump between apps? Swipe the left-hand edge of the screen inwards to cycle through apps that are currently running.
Frequently asked questions - 59 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, swipe the right-hand edge of the screen inwards and tap Settings > Change PC settings > PC and devices > Lock screen. 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 make tiles bigger or smaller? Swipe upwards from bottom of the screen and tap Customize, tap the tile(s) you wish to resize and tap Resize. Select a size from the menu that appears. How do I close an app? Swipe the window downwards from the top to the bottom of the screen. You need to swipe the window past the half-way point of the screen.
Frequently asked questions - 61 5. Save the alarm by tapping 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. Where are my apps? Swipe the right-hand edge of the screen inwards and tap Search, type the name of the app you would like to open using the pop-up keyboard. Results will be displayed on the left-hand side of the screen.
- Frequently asked questions menu that appears at the bottom of the screen. How do I make an app appear on my taskbar? If you're in All apps and you want to make an app appear on the taskbar, tap and hold a tile until you see the screen dim. When you release the tile, the Customize menu appear at the bottom of the screen. Select Pin to taskbar from the menu that appears at the bottom of the screen. How do I install apps? You can download Windows Store apps from Store.
Frequently asked questions - 63 What is a Microsoft ID (account)? A Microsoft account is an email address and password that you use to sign in to Windows. You can use any email address, but it is best if you choose the one you already use to communicate with friends and sign in to your favorite websites. When you sign in to your PC with a 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.
F R E Q U E N T LY 64 - 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 - 65 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 70). 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 - 67 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 - 69 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 - 71 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 - 73 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 - 75 • 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.
