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8512736.book Page i Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM Contents Chapter 1: About This Reference . . . . . . . . . . . 1 About this guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Accessing your online User Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Gateway contact information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8512736.book Page ii Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM Contents Playing discs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Creating discs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Using the memory card reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Memory card types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Using a memory card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8512736.book Page iii Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com Checking hard drive space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Deleting unnecessary files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 Checking the hard drive for errors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 Defragmenting the hard drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71 Backing up files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8512736.book Page iv Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM Contents Sound . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 Recovering your system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98 Recovering pre-installed software and drivers . . . . . . . . 99 Using Microsoft System Restore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105 Recovering your system to its factory condition . . . . . 108 Recovering your system using the Windows DVD . . . .
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512736.book Page 2 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 1: About This Reference About this guide This guide includes information and maintenance instructions that are specific to your model of Gateway computer. Some illustrations in this guide may look different than your computer because hardware options and port locations may vary. For all other computer information, see your online User Guide. For more information For more information about your computer, visit Gateway’s Support page at www.
8512736.book Page 3 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com Gateway contact information The label on the top or side of your computer contains information that identifies your computer model and serial number. Gateway Customer Care will need this information if you call for assistance. Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity The Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity label found on the back or side of your computer includes the product key code for your operating system.
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8512736.book Page 7 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com Component Icon Description DVD/CD drive Use this drive to listen to audio CDs, install games and programs, watch DVDs, and store large files onto recordable discs (depending on drive type). This drive may be a CD, recordable CD, DVD, recordable DVD, Blu-ray, or HD DVD drive. For more information about your drive, see “Identifying optical drive types” on page 27.
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8512736.book Page 9 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com Component Icon Description Power connector Plug the power cord into this connector. Voltage switch Make sure this switch is positioned correctly for the power in your area. Case cover thumbscrew Remove these thumbscrews to open the side panel of the case. Audio (line) in/side speaker jack (blue) Plug an external audio input source (such as a stereo) into this jack so you can record sound on your computer. For 5.
8512736.book Page 10 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Computer Component Icon Description Telephone jack (optional) Plug your telephone into this jack. Expansion card bay cover Install additional PCI expansion cards in one of these available slots.
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8512736.book Page 12 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started Working safely and comfortably Before using your computer, follow these general guidelines for setting up a safe and comfortable work area and avoiding discomfort and strain: • Keep hands and arms parallel to the floor. • Adjust the screen so it is perpendicular to your line of sight, and the top of the screen is no higher than eye level. • Place your feet flat on the floor or on a footrest.
8512736.book Page 13 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com Reducing eye strain Sunlight or bright indoor lighting should not reflect on the screen or shine directly into your eyes. • Position the computer desk and monitor so you can avoid glare on your screen and light shining directly into your eyes. Reduce glare by installing shades or curtains on windows and by installing a glare screen filter. • Use soft, indirect lighting in your work area. Do not use your computer in a dark room.
8512736.book Page 14 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started Sitting at your computer • Avoid bending, arching, or angling your wrists. Make sure that they are in a relaxed position when you type. • Do not slouch forward or lean far back. Sit with your back • • straight so your knees, hips, and elbows form right angles when you work. Take breaks to stand and stretch your legs. Avoid twisting your torso or neck.
8512736.book Page 15 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) supplies battery power to your computer during a power failure. Although you cannot run your computer for an extended period of time with a UPS, a UPS lets you run your computer long enough to save your work and shut down your computer normally. Connecting to a broadband modem or network Important Your computer has a built-in Ethernet (network) jack.
8512736.book Page 16 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started Connecting a dial-up modem Warning To reduce the risk of fire, use only No. 26 AWG or larger telecommunications line cord. Your computer may have a 56K modem that you can use with a standard telephone line to connect to the Internet or fax documents. To connect the modem: 1 Insert one end of the modem cable into the modem jack at the back of your computer.
8512736.book Page 17 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com 5 To open your computer’s Start menu, click (Start). From that menu, you can run programs and search for files. For more information on using your computer’s menus, see “Using Windows” and “Customizing Windows” in your online User Guide. Waking up your computer Tip For more information about changing the power button mode, see the “Customizing Windows” chapter in your online User Guide.
8512736.book Page 18 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started To put your computer in Sleep (power-saving) mode: 1 Click (Start), then click (power). The computer saves your session and partially shuts down to save power. 2 To “wake” your computer, press a key on the keyboard. If the computer remains in Sleep mode, press the power button. To turn off your computer: • Click (Start), click the arrow next to the lock icon, then click Shut Down.
8512736.book Page 19 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com Restarting (rebooting) your computer To restart your computer: • Click (Start), click the arrow next to the lock icon, then click Restart. Your computer turns off, then turns on again. - OR If your computer does not turn off, press and hold the power button until the computer turns off (about five seconds), then press it again to turn the computer back on.
8512736.book Page 20 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started Using the keyboard Premium multimedia keyboard features The keyboard has several different types of keys and buttons. Your keyboard also has status indicators that show which keyboard feature is active.
8512736.book Page 21 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com Feature Icon Description Windows keys Press one of these keys to open the Windows Start menu. These keys can also be used in combination with other keys to open utilities like F (Find/Search), R (Run), and E (Computer). Application key Press this key to access shortcut menus and help assistants in Windows. Directional keys Press these keys to move the cursor up, down, right, or left.
8512736.book Page 22 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started Feature Icon Description Sleep button Press this button to activate your computer’s Sleep (power-saving) mode. Function keys Press these keys to start program actions. Each program uses different function keys for different purposes. See the program documentation to find out more about the function key actions.
8512736.book Page 23 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com Standard keyboard features Function keys Windows keys Navigation keys Application key Indicators Directional keys Numeric keypad Feature Description Function keys Press these keys to start program actions. Each program uses different function keys for different purposes. See the program documentation to find out more about the function key actions.
8512736.book Page 24 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started Using the mouse Scroll wheel Right button Left button The mouse is a device that controls the pointer movement on the computer screen. This illustration shows the standard mouse. As you move the mouse, the pointer (arrow) on the screen moves in the same direction. You can use the left and right buttons on the mouse to select objects on the screen.
8512736.book Page 25 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com You can use the scroll wheel on the mouse to move through a document. This feature is not available in all programs. To... Do this... Move the pointer on the screen Move the mouse around. If you reach the edge of your mouse pad and need to move the mouse farther, lift the mouse and place it in the middle of the mouse pad, then continue moving the mouse. Select an object on the screen Position the pointer over the object.
8512736.book Page 26 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started Using optical drives Features Your optical drive has the following basic components: Disc tray Manual eject hole Activity indicator Eject button Loading an optical disc To insert an optical disc: 1 Press the eject button on the optical disc drive. Important When you place a single-sided disc in the tray, make sure that the label side is facing up.
8512736.book Page 27 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com Identifying optical drive types Your computer may contain one of the following drive types. Look on the front of the drive’s disc tray for one or more of the following logos: If your optical drive has this logo... Your drive type is... Use your drive for... CD Installing programs, playing audio CDs, and accessing data. CD-RW Installing programs, playing audio CDs, accessing data, and creating CDs.
8512736.book Page 28 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started If your optical drive has this logo... Your drive type is... Use your drive for... DVD-RAM/-RW Installing programs, playing audio CDs, playing DVDs, accessing data, and recording video and data to CDs and DVD-RAM, DVD-R, or DVD-RW discs.
8512736.book Page 29 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com Playing a DVD A DVD (Digital Versatile Disc) is similar to a standard CD but has greater data capacity. Because of this increased capacity, full-length movies, several albums of music, or several gigabytes of data can fit on a single disc. DVDs can be played on a DVD player or a DVD drive-equipped computer. For more information about playing DVDs, see your online User Guide.
8512736.book Page 30 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started Creating discs Recording to optical discs You can use the disc burning program on your computer to copy tracks from a music CD to your hard drive, copy or create data discs, create music CDs, create video DVDs, and more. For more information about creating CDs and DVDs, see your online User Guide. Creating audio and video files You can create audio and music files, either from scratch or from music CDs.
8512736.book Page 31 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com Memory card types The memory card reader supports several memory card types. To determine which types are supported by your card reader and the slots to use for each type of card, examine the face plate of the reader. Each slot is assigned a different drive letter (for example, E: and F:), so data can be transferred from one memory card type to another.
8512736.book Page 32 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started Using the diskette drive The optional diskette drive uses 3.5-inch diskettes (sometimes called floppy disks). Diskettes are useful for storing files or transferring files to another computer. Drive activity light Diskette slot Eject button To load a diskette: 1 Insert the diskette into the diskette drive with the label facing up. 2 To access a file on the diskette, click (Start), then click Computer.
8512736.book Page 33 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com To adjust the volume from Windows: 1 Click (Volume) on the taskbar. The volume control slider opens. 2 Click and drag the slider up to increase volume and down to decrease volume. 3 To mute the volume, click (Mute). To restore volume, click it again. 4 Click Mixer. The Volume Mixer dialog box opens, where you can click and drag sliders to adjust individual devices.
8512736.book Page 34 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started 5 Click × in the top-right corner of the window to close it. Help For more information about adjusting the volume, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type adjusting volume in the Search Help box, then press ENTER. Installing a printer, scanner, or other device Important Before you install a printer, scanner, or other peripheral device, see the device documentation and installation instructions.
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8512736.book Page 36 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer Preventing static electricity discharge Warning To avoid exposure to dangerous electrical voltages and moving parts, turn off your computer and unplug the power cord and modem and network cables before opening the case. To prevent risk of electric shock, do not insert any object into the vent holes of the power supply.
8512736.book Page 37 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com Opening and closing the case Your computer case provides easy access to internal components. Warning To avoid exposure to dangerous electrical voltages and moving parts, turn off your computer, then unplug the power cord and modem cable before opening the case. Important Some details of your computer, such as available ports, may differ from those shown.
8512736.book Page 38 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer Removing and installing the front bezel To remove the front bezel: 1 After removing the side panel, press the three black plastic tabs (positions indicated by the arrows) to release the right side of the bezel. (Case shown upright for clarity.) 2 Swing the right side of the bezel out until the left side of the bezel comes away from the left side of the computer, then remove the bezel.
8512736.book Page 39 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com To replace the front bezel: 1 Insert the tabs on the left side of the bezel into the slots in the left side of the computer.
8512736.book Page 40 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer 2 Swing the right side of the bezel in to insert the tabs on the right side of the bezel into the slots on the right side of the computer. 3 Press the right side of the bezel firmly until it snaps into place.
8512736.book Page 41 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com Installing memory When you upgrade the computer memory, make sure that you install the correct type of memory module for your computer. Your computer uses DIMM memory. To install or replace DIMM memory: 1 Remove the side panel by following the instructions in “Opening and closing the case” on page 37. 2 Find the memory module banks on your system board.
8512736.book Page 42 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer 4 Align the notches on the new DIMM with the notches on the memory module bank and press the module firmly into the bank. The tabs on the sides of the memory module should secure the memory module automatically. When the module is secure, you hear a click. 5 Replace the side panel by following the instructions in “Opening and closing the case” on page 37. 6 Return your computer to its upright position.
8512736.book Page 43 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com Replacing an optical or diskette drive or a card reader Throughout this procedure, “drive” is used to indicate either a drive or a memory card reader. To replace a drive or card reader: 1 Remove the side panel by following the instructions in “Opening and closing the case” on page 37.
8512736.book Page 44 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer 4 Slide the drive release latch toward the back of the computer to the Unlock position, then slide the drive or card reader forward and out of the drive bay. 5 Slide the new drive or card reader into the drive bay, then slide the drive release latch toward the front of the computer to the Lock position. 6 Reconnect the drive cables using the notes you took previously.
8512736.book Page 45 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com 3 Disconnect the drive cables, noting their locations and orientation. (You will reconnect the cables after you install the new drive.) 4 Press the the drive release latch in toward the drive, then slide the drive out of the drive bay.
8512736.book Page 46 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer 5 Remove the hard drive. 6 Slide the new drive into the drive bay, then slide the drive release latch back. 7 If you are adding a drive, connect the drive cables to the new drive according to the drive’s documentation. - OR If you are replacing a drive, reconnect the drive cables using the notes you took previously.
8512736.book Page 47 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com Adding or replacing an expansion card To add or replace an expansion card: 1 Remove the side panel by following the instructions in “Opening and closing the case” on page 37. 2 Open the card retention lever. Card retention lever 3 If you are replacing an expansion card, go to the next step. If you are adding a new expansion card, go to Step 6.
8512736.book Page 48 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer 5 Remove the old expansion card. You can slightly seesaw the card end-to-end to loosen the card, but do not bend the card sideways. Caution Do not touch the contacts on the bottom part of the expansion card. Touching the contacts can cause electrostatic damage to the card. 6 Install the new card into the expansion slot.
8512736.book Page 49 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com Replacing the front fan To replace the front fan: 1 Remove the side panel by following the instructions in “Opening and closing the case” on page 37. 2 Remove the fan by pulling it away from the system board. 3 Disconnect the fan cable from the system board. 4 Connect the new fan cable to the system board, then insert the new fan into place. 5 Return the computer to an upright position, then replace the side panel.
8512736.book Page 50 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer Replacing the rear fan Tools Phillips screwdriver To replace the rear fan: 1 Remove the side panel by following the instructions in “Opening and closing the case” on page 37. 2 Disconnect the fan from the system board. 3 Remove the four screws that secure the fan to the back of the case, then remove the fan.
8512736.book Page 51 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com 6 Replace the side panel by following the instructions in “Opening and closing the case” on page 37. 7 Return the computer to an upright position, then replace the side panel. 8 Reconnect all external cables and the power cord. Replacing the front I/O board Important The color and shape of your replacement component's front cover may vary from your original component.
8512736.book Page 52 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer 5 Insert the new I/O panel board into the computer, then replace the screw. 6 Connect the I/O panel cable to the new I/O panel. 7 Replace the front bezel by following the instructions in “Removing and installing the front bezel” on page 38. 8 Replace the side panel by following the instructions in “Opening and closing the case” on page 37.
8512736.book Page 53 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com 3 Disconnect the fan cable from the system board. Caution The heat sink has thermal paste located on the bottom of it. Use caution when you remove the old heat sink or unpack the new heat sink so you do not damage the thermal paste. 4 Loosen the four screws that secure the heat sink to the system board, then remove the heat sink.
8512736.book Page 54 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer 5 Release the processor by pushing down on the lever and then lifting it completely up. 6 Remove the processor from the system board.
8512736.book Page 55 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com Replacing the system battery Warning Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Dispose of used batteries following the manufacturer’s instructions. Caution Any custom BIOS settings you have made will be lost when you remove the system battery. All settings will return to their factory defaults.
8512736.book Page 56 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer 7 Push the battery release tab. The battery pops out of the socket. 8 Make sure that the positive (+) side of the new battery is facing up, then press the battery into the socket until it snaps into place. 9 Return the computer to an upright position, then replace the side panel. 10 11 12 13 Reconnect all external cables and the power cord. Turn on your computer. Open the BIOS Setup utility.
8512736.book Page 57 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com 4 Slide the power supply away from the back of the computer, then pull it down and remove it. 5 Install the new power supply into the case, then install the three screws to secure the power supply to the case. 6 Reconnect the power supply cables using your notes from Step 2. 7 Return the computer to an upright position, then replace the side panel. 8 Reconnect all external cables and the power cord.
8512736.book Page 58 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer 7 Remove the seven system board screws. Screws Screws 8 Lift the system board up and out of the case. 9 Align the new system board on the screw holes in the case, then secure it into the case with the screws. 10 If your replacement system board does not include a processor, go to the next step. -ORIf your replacement system board includes a processor, go to Step 18.
8512736.book Page 59 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com 12 Release the processor from the old system board by pushing down on the lever and then lifting it completely up. 13 Remove the processor from the old system board.
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8512736.book Page 62 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer Setting up a maintenance schedule Use the following table to set up a regular maintenance schedule.
8512736.book Page 63 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com Caring for your computer To extend the life of your computer: • Be careful not to bump or drop your computer, and do not put any objects on top of it. The case, although strong, is not made to support extra weight. • When transporting your computer, we recommend that you put it in the original packaging materials. • Keep your computer away from magnetic fields. Magnetic fields can erase data on hard drives.
8512736.book Page 64 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer Cleaning your computer Keeping your computer clean and the vents free from dust helps keep your computer performing at its best.
8512736.book Page 65 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com Cleaning the keyboard You should occasionally clean the keyboard to remove dust and lint trapped under the keys. To clean the keyboard: 1 Use an aerosol can of air with a narrow, straw-like extension to remove dust and lint trapped under the keys. 2 If you spill liquid on the keyboard, turn off your computer and turn the keyboard upside down. Let the liquid drain, then let the keyboard dry before trying to use it again.
8512736.book Page 66 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer Cleaning optical discs Optical discs (CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray Discs) get dirty from frequent handling. To clean an optical disc: • Wipe from the center to the edge, not around in a circle, using a product made especially for the purpose. Updating Windows Windows Update helps you keep your computer up-to-date. Use Windows Update to choose updates for your computer’s operating system, software, and hardware.
8512736.book Page 67 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com Using BigFix Your computer may have BigFix software installed. BigFix monitors your computer for problems and conflicts. It automatically gathers information about the latest bugs, security alerts, and updates from BigFix sites on the Internet. Whenever BigFix detects a problem, it alerts you by flashing the blue taskbar icon. To fix the problem, click on that icon to open BigFix.
8512736.book Page 68 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer Managing hard drive space Windows provides several utilities you can use to check drive space, and to delete, defragment, and back up files. Checking hard drive space To check hard drive space: Shortcut Start Ö Computer Ö right-click drive Ö Properties 1 Click (Start), then click Computer. The Computer window opens.
8512736.book Page 69 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com 2 Right-click the drive that you want to check for available file space, then click Properties. Drive space information appears. Deleting unnecessary files Delete unnecessary files, such as temporary files and files in the Recycle Bin, to free hard drive space.
8512736.book Page 70 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer 2 Click one of the options, then click OK: • My files only cleans only the folders for the currently logged in user. • Files from all users on this computer cleans all folders. Help For more information about keeping the hard drive free of unnecessary files, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type disk cleanup in the Search Help box, then press ENTER.
8512736.book Page 71 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com 3 Click Check Now, then click Start. Your drive is checked for errors. This process may take several minutes. Important Error checking cannot scan a drive while the drive is being used. If you try to check your hard drive for errors, you see a prompt asking you if you want to scan the hard drive later (the next time you restart your computer). If you see this prompt, click Schedule disc check.
8512736.book Page 72 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer To defragment the hard drive: 1 Disconnect your computer from the network. 2 Click (Start), All Programs, Accessories, System Tools, then click Disk Defragmenter. The Disk Defragmenter dialog box opens. 3 Click Defragment now. This process may take hours to complete, depending on the size of the drive being defragmented.
8512736.book Page 73 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com Backing up files Backing up files and removing them from the hard drive frees space for new files on the hard drive. It also protects you from losing important information if the hard drive fails or you accidentally delete files. You should back up your files regularly to a writable optical disc (if you have a recordable drive). Use a backup device, such as a recordable disc drive, to do a complete hard drive backup.
8512736.book Page 74 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer Scheduling maintenance tasks Task Scheduler lets you schedule maintenance tasks such as running Disk Defragmenter and checking your drives for errors. Important Your computer must be on during scheduled tasks. If your computer is off, scheduled tasks will not run. To start the Task Scheduler: 1 Click (Start), All Programs, Accessories, System Tools, then click Task Scheduler.
8512736.book Page 75 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com Moving from your old computer Transferring files and settings automatically You can move your files, folders, software settings, and user account settings (such as display, Internet, and e-mail settings) from your old computer to your new one using Windows Easy Transfer. Files can be transferred automatically to it as long as your old computer has Windows XP.
8512736.book Page 76 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer Transferring files and settings manually You can manually transfer your personal data files by copying them to removable media, such as a writable disc, an external hard drive, a network location, or a flash drive. Finding your documents Many programs save your personal data files in the Documents folder. Look in your old computer’s documents folder for personal data files.
8512736.book Page 77 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com Finding other files Use Windows Find or Search to locate other personal data files. For more information, see “Using Windows” in your online User Guide. You can often identify different data file types by looking at the file’s extension (the part of the file name following the last period). For example, a document file might have a .DOC extension and a spreadsheet file might have an .XLS extension. File type File usually ends in..
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8512736.book Page 80 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting Safety guidelines While troubleshooting your computer, follow these safety guidelines: Warning Never open your computer case while your computer is turned on and while the modem cable, network cable, and power cord are connected. Warning Make sure that you are correctly grounded before accessing internal components.
8512736.book Page 81 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com Troubleshooting Troubleshooting topics are listed in alphabetical order. Add-in cards See “Expansion cards” on page 86. Audio See “Sound” on page 97. CD or DVD drives The computer does not recognize a disc or the CD or DVD drive • Make sure that the disc label is facing up, then try again. • Try a different disc. Occasionally, discs are flawed or become scratched and cannot be read by the CD or DVD drive.
8512736.book Page 82 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting An audio CD does not produce sound • Make sure that the disc label is facing up, then try again. • Some music CDs have copy protection software. You may not be able to play these CDs on your computer. • Make sure that the volume controls are turned up. For more information, see “Adjusting the volume” on page 32. • Make sure that the mute controls are turned off. For more information, see “Adjusting the volume” on page 32.
8512736.book Page 83 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com Diskette drive The diskette drive is not recognized • Shut down and restart your computer. You cannot save a file to diskette or you see the message “disk is full or write-protected” • Make sure that the write-protection tab on the upper-right corner of the diskette is down (unprotected). • The diskette may be full. Delete unnecessary files on the diskette and try again. • Make sure that the diskette you are using is IBM-compatible.
8512736.book Page 84 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting The diskette drive LED is lit continuously • Remove the diskette from the drive. If the light stays on, try restarting your computer. Display The screen resolution is not correct • Change the screen resolution from the Display Settings dialog box. For more information, see the “Customizing Windows” chapter in your online User Guide.
8512736.book Page 85 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com Ethernet You cannot see the other computers on your network • Make sure that your Ethernet cable is plugged into the Ethernet jack on your computer, as shown in your setup poster. Make sure that the other end is plugged into a network router, switch, hub, or other network device. • Make sure that all computers are plugged into a powered electrical outlet and turned on.
8512736.book Page 86 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting Your Ethernet network is running slower than you expect • If your Ethernet network is running slower than you expect, check the speed of each Ethernet component. For best results, all Ethernet components should be standard Ethernet (10 Mbps), Fast Ethernet (100 Mbps or 10/100 Mbps), or Gigabit Ethernet (1000 Mbps or 10/100/1000 Mbps).
8512736.book Page 87 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com Hard drive You see an “Insufficient disk space” error message • Delete unnecessary files from the hard drive using Disk Cleanup. For instructions on deleting unnecessary files, see “Deleting unnecessary files” on page 69. Help For more information about file management, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type the phrase file management in the Search Help box, then press ENTER.
8512736.book Page 88 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting You see a “Non-system disk” or “disk error” error message • Eject the diskette from the diskette drive, then press ENTER. Internet See also “Modem (dial-up)” on page 91. You cannot connect to the Internet • If you are using a dial-up modem, make sure that the modem cable is plugged into the modem jack and not the Ethernet network jack. See your setup poster to make sure that the connections have been made correctly.
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8512736.book Page 90 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting Liquid spilled in the keyboard • If you spilled liquid in the keyboard, turn off your computer and unplug the keyboard. Clean the keyboard and turn it upside down to drain it. Let the keyboard dry before using it again. If the keyboard does not work after it dries, you may need to replace it. Memory Help For more information about troubleshooting memory errors, click Start, then click Help and Support.
8512736.book Page 91 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com Modem (dial-up) See also “Internet” on page 88. Your modem does not dial or does not connect • Make sure that the modem cable is plugged into the modem jack and not the Ethernet network jack. See your setup poster to make sure that the connections have been made correctly. • Make sure that your computer is connected to the telephone line and the telephone line has a dial tone. • Make sure that the modem cable is less than 6 feet (1.
8512736.book Page 92 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting • Disconnect any answering machine, fax machine, or • • printer that is on the same line as the modem. Do not connect these devices to the same telephone line as the modem. Make sure that you are not using a digital, rollover, or PBX line. These lines do not work with your modem. Check for line noise (scratchy, crackling, or popping sounds).
8512736.book Page 93 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com Your fax communications program only sends and receives faxes at 14,400 bps when you have a 56K modem • Current fax technology only supports a maximum send and receive rate of 14,400 bps. The modem is not recognized by your computer • Make sure that the line connected to the modem is working and plugged into the appropriate port on your computer.
8512736.book Page 94 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting The modem is noisy when it dials and connects When your modem tries to connect to another modem, it begins handshaking. Handshaking is a digital “getting acquainted” conversation between the two modems that establishes connection speeds and communication protocols. You may hear unusual handshaking sounds when the modems first connect. If the handshaking sounds are too loud, you can turn down the modem volume.
8512736.book Page 95 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com The mouse works erratically • If the mouse pointer begins moving erratically across the screen or becomes difficult to control precisely, cleaning the mouse will likely improve its accuracy. Clean the mouse by wiping the bottom with a clean, damp cloth. Make sure that the optical sensor is clean and free of debris. • The mouse pad may have a printed or fabric pattern on it that interferes with your mouse. Try a different mouse pad.
8512736.book Page 96 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting Printer The printer will not turn on • Make sure that the printer is online. Many printers have an online/offline button that you may need to press. • Make sure that the power cable is plugged into an AC power source. The printer is on but will not print • Check the cable between the printer and your computer. Make sure that it is connected to the correct type of port. • Make sure that the printer is online.
8512736.book Page 97 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com 3 Right-click the printer you want to use. If the menu shows a check mark next to Use Printer Offline, click Use Printer Offline to clear the check mark. • Wait until files have been printed before sending • additional files to the printer. If you print large files or many files at one time, you may want to add additional memory to the printer. See the printer documentation for instructions for adding additional memory.
8512736.book Page 98 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting Recovering your system You can solve most computer problems by following the information in “Troubleshooting” on page 81 or in the technical support pages at www.gateway.com. Problem solving may also involve re-installing some or all of the computer’s software (also called recovering or restoring your system). Gateway provides everything you need to recover your system under most conditions.
8512736.book Page 99 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com Recovering pre-installed software and drivers You can perform a partial recovery by recovering the software and device drivers that were pre-installed at the factory. If you need to recover software that did not come pre-installed on your system, you need to follow that software’s installation instructions.
8512736.book Page 100 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting 2 Click Applications and drivers external media, then click Next. The What would you like to do? dialog box opens. 3 Click Create system recovery discs, then click Next. 4 Insert a blank, recordable disc into a recordable disc drive, then click Next. If an AutoPlay dialog box opens, click the x in the upper-right corner to close it.
8512736.book Page 101 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com 8 Click Finish. 9 Remove your final disc, then label all of the discs and store them in a safe place. Recovering pre-installed software and drivers using Gateway Recovery Center To recover specific drivers and software: 1 Click (Start), All Programs, Gateway Recovery Center, then click Gateway Recovery Center. The Gateway Recovery Center opens.
8512736.book Page 102 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting To recover device drivers that were pre-installed, click Hardware, then click Device driver recovery. 3 Click the software or driver you want to recover, then click Next.
8512736.book Page 103 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com Recovering pre-installed software and drivers using recovery discs If you created a multiple-disc set of recovery discs, each disc contains a unique set of software and drivers. If a recovery disc does not offer the software or driver you need to recover, try another disc. To recover software and drivers using recovery discs: 1 Insert a software and driver recovery disc into a CD or DVD drive.
8512736.book Page 104 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting 2 To recover pre-installed software, click Application recovery, then click the software you want to recover. - OR To recover pre-installed device drivers, click Device driver recovery, then click the type of driver you want to recover. 3 Click Next. 4 If the software or driver is not shown on the list, and you have a multiple-disc set of recovery discs, close Gateway Recovery Center and try another disc.
8512736.book Page 105 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com Using Microsoft System Restore Microsoft System Restore periodically takes “snapshots” of your system settings and saves them as restore points. In most cases of hard-to-resolve software problems, you can return to one of these restore points to get your system running again. Windows automatically creates an additional restore point each day, and also each time you install software or device drivers.
8512736.book Page 106 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting 2 On the left side of the window, click Repair Windows using System Restore, then click Next. The Choose a restore point dialog box opens. 3 Click the restore point you want, click Next, then click Finish. A confirmation message box appears. 4 Click Yes. Your system is restored using the restore point you specified. This process may take several minutes, and may restart your computer.
8512736.book Page 107 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com Manually creating a restore point To manually create a restore point: (Start), Control Panel, System and Maintenance, then click Backup and Restore Center. The Backup and Restore Center opens. 1 Click 2 On the left side of the window, click Create a restore point or change settings, then click Next. The System Properties dialog box opens to the System Protection tab. 3 Click Create. The Create a restore point dialog box opens.
8512736.book Page 108 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting Recovering your system to its factory condition If your computer’s problems are not solved by any of the other recovery options, you may need to recover its hard drive to its factory condition. This process is called a factory recovery. Caution A complete factory recovery deletes everything on your hard drive, then reinstalls Windows and any pre-installed software and device drivers.
8512736.book Page 109 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com 8 To perform a recovery with data backup (recommended), click Recovery with automatic data backup, then click Next. Important Before your hard drive is recovered, your personal files will be automatically backed up to c:\backup. - OR To perform a full factory recovery without data backup, click Full factory recovery, then click Next. Caution Continuing with the full factory recovery will delete everything on your hard drive.
8512736.book Page 110 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting 3 When the prompt “Press any key to boot from CD or DVD” appears, press any key on your keyboard. A list of valid boot devices appears. 4 Press the arrow keys to select the drive containing the Windows DVD, then press ENTER and follow the on-screen instructions.
8512736.book Page 111 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com • See the troubleshooting section of this chapter. Warning To avoid bodily injury, do not attempt to troubleshoot your computer problem if: • Power cords or plugs are damaged • Liquid has been spilled into your computer • Your computer was dropped • The case was damaged Instead, unplug your computer and contact a qualified computer technician.
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8512736.book Page 114 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM APPENDIX A: Legal Notices Important safety information Warning Always follow these instructions to help guard against personal injury and damage to your Gateway system. Your Gateway system is designed and tested to meet the latest standards for safety of information technology equipment. However, to ensure safe use of this product, it is important that the safety instructions marked on the product and in the documentation are followed.
8512736.book Page 115 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com • • • • • • • • • • Do not walk on the power cord or allow anything to rest on it. Do not spill anything on the system. The best way to avoid spills is to avoid eating and drinking near your system. Some products have a replaceable CMOS battery on the system board. There is a danger of explosion if the CMOS battery is replaced incorrectly. Replace the battery with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer.
8512736.book Page 116 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM APPENDIX A: Legal Notices FCC declaration of conformity Responsible party: Gateway, Inc. 7565 Irvine Center Drive Irvine, CA 92618 Phone: 800-846-2000 Caution Changes or modifications not expressly approved by Gateway could void the FCC compliance and negate your authority to operate the product. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
8512736.book Page 117 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com Canada Industry Canada (IC) Unintentional emitter per ICES-003 This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions from digital apparatus as set out in the radio interference regulations of Industry Canada.
8512736.book Page 118 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM APPENDIX A: Legal Notices Television antenna connectors protection (for systems fitted with TV/cable TV tuner cards) External television antenna grounding Important The instructions are for the person who installs cable to the system. Gateway assumes you are qualified in the servicing of computer equipment and trained in recognizing hazards in products with electric shock.
8512736.book Page 119 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com Power lines Warning When installing or realigning an outside antenna system, extreme care should be taken to keep from touching such power lines or circuits. Contact with them could be fatal. Do not locate the antenna near overhead light or power circuits, or where it could fall into such power lines or circuits.
8512736.book Page 120 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM APPENDIX A: Legal Notices Environmental information The product you have purchased contains extracted natural resources that have been used in the manufacturing process. This product may contain substances known to be hazardous to the environment or to human health.
8512736.book Page 121 Thursday, September 27, 2007 9:52 AM www.gateway.com Trademark acknowledgments Gateway and the Black-and-White Spot Design are trademarks or registered trademarks of Gateway, Inc. in the U.S. and other countries. Intel, Intel Inside logo, and Pentium are registered trademarks and MMX is a trademark of Intel Corporation. Microsoft, MS, MS-DOS, and Windows are trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
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