REFERENCEGUIDE ®
Contents Chapter 1: About This Reference . . . . . . . . . . . 1 About this guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Accessing the online User Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Gateway contact information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Chapter 2: Checking Out Your Computer . . . . . 5 Front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Contents Memory card types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Using a memory card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Adjusting the volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Configuring the audio jacks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Installing a printer, scanner, or other device . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 27 28 30 30 Chapter 4: Upgrading Your Computer. . . . . . .
www.gateway.com Checking the hard drive for errors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Defragmenting the hard drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Backing up files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Scheduling maintenance tasks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Moving from your old computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 Transferring files and settings automatically . . . . . . . . . .
Contents Before calling Gateway Customer Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96 Calling Customer Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96 Appendix A: Legal Notices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
CHAPTER1 About This Reference • • • • • About this guide Accessing the online User Guide Gateway contact information Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity For more information 1
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.gateway.
www.gateway.com 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. If you ever reinstall Windows from the installation DVD, you will need to enter these numbers to activate Windows.
CHAPTER 1: About This Reference 4
CHAPTER2 Checking Out Your Computer • Front • Back 5
CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Computer Front Important Your computer’s hardware options , port locations, and indicators may vary from this illustration.
www.gateway.com Component Icon Description Memory card reader Insert a memory card from a digital camera, MP3 player, PDA, cellular telephone, or other device into the memory card reader. Optical disc 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, or Blu-ray drive.
CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Computer Back Important Your computer’s hardware options and port locations may vary from this illustration.
www.gateway.com Component Icon Description HDMI jack Plug an HDMI cable into this jack and an HDMI input jack on a TV or other A/V device. HDMI carries a high-quality digital video and digital audio signal. IEEE 1394 port Plug IEEE 1394 (also known as Firewire™) devices (such as a digital camcorder) into this 6-pin IEEE 1394 port. For more information, see “Installing a printer, scanner, or other device” on page 30.
CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Computer Component Icon Description Ethernet (network) jack Plug an Ethernet network cable or a device (such as a DSL or cable modem for a broadband Internet connection) into this jack. For more information, see “Learning about the Internet” in the online User Guide. Rear speaker jack (black plug) Plug your rear right and left speakers into this jack. For more information, see “Configuring the audio jacks” on page 30.
CHAPTER3 Setting Up and Getting Started • Working safely and comfortably • Preparing power connections • Connecting to a broadband modem or network • Connecting a dial-up modem • Starting your computer • Turning off your computer • Restarting (rebooting) your computer • Using the keyboard • Using the mouse • Using optical drives • Using the memory card reader • Adjusting the volume • Configuring the audio jacks • Installing a printer, scanner, or other device 11
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. • Keep ventilation openings clear of obstructions.
www.gateway.com Reducing eye strain Sunlight or bright indoor lighting should not reflect on the monitor screen or shine directly into your eyes. • Position the computer desk and screen 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.
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. Avoiding discomfort and injury from repetitive strain • Vary your activities to avoid excessive repetition.
www.gateway.com Checking the voltage selection Caution If you set the voltage selection switch incorrectly, your system will be damaged. Make sure this switch is set correctly for your location before turning on your computer. In the United States, the utility power is supplied at a nominal 115 volts at 60 Hz. The power supply should always be set to this when your computer is operating in the United States. In other areas of the world, such as Europe, the utility power is supplied at 230 volts at 50 Hz.
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 on the modem at the back of your computer. 2 Insert the other end of the modem cable into a telephone wall jack.
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” chapter in your online User Guide. When you have not used your computer for several minutes, it may enter a power-saving mode called Sleep.
CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started To put your computer to sleep: (Start), then click (power). The computer saves your session and partially shuts down to save power. 1 Click 2 To “wake” your computer, press a key on the keyboard or press the power button. If the computer remains in Sleep mode, press the power button. To turn off your computer: 1 Click (Start), click the arrow next to the lock icon, then click Shut Down. The computer turns off.
www.gateway.com 2 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. Using the keyboard The keyboard has several different types of keys and buttons. Your keyboard also has status indicators that show which keyboard feature is active.
CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started Feature Icon Description Application key Press this key to access shortcut menus and help assistants in Windows. Navigation keys Press these keys to move the cursor and to copy, cut, and paste objects. Numeric keypad Press these keys to type numbers when the numeric keypad (NUM LOCK) is turned on. Using the mouse Scroll wheel Right button Left button The mouse is a device that controls the pointer movement on the computer display.
www.gateway.com As you move the mouse, the pointer (arrow) on the display moves in the same direction. You can use the left and right buttons on the mouse to select objects on the display. 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 computer display Move the mouse around.
CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started To... Do this... Access a shortcut menu or find more information about an object on the display. Position the pointer over the object. Quickly press and release the right mouse button once. This is called right-clicking. Move an object on the computer display. Position the pointer over the object. Press the left mouse button and hold it down. Move (drag) the object to the appropriate part of the computer display.
www.gateway.com Using optical drives Features Your optical drive has the following basic components: Flip-down door 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. If the disc has two playable sides, place the disc so the name of the side you want to play is facing up. 2 Place the disc in the tray with the label facing up.
CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started If your optical drive has this logo... Your drive type is... Use your drive for... DVD/CD-RW Installing programs, playing audio CDs, accessing data, creating CDs, and playing DVDs. DVD Installing programs, playing audio CDs, playing DVDs, and accessing data. DVD+RW Installing programs, playing audio CDs, playing DVDs, accessing data, and recording video and data to CDs and DVD+R or DVD+RW discs.
www.gateway.com Playing discs Playing a CD Important Some music CDs have copy protection software. You may not be able to play these CDs on your computer. A standard compact disc (CD) can hold an entire album of digital songs and can be played on a CD player or your computer’s CD drive.
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. You can also create video files from home video.
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, the E: and F: drives), so data can be transferred from one memory card type to another.
CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started Adjusting the volume You can adjust volume using your speakers’ controls or the Windows volume controls. You can also adjust the volume of specific sound devices in your computer. To adjust the overall volume using hardware controls: • If you are using external speakers, turn the knob on the front of the speakers. -ORUse the mute and volume control buttons on the keyboard. For more information, see “Using the keyboard” on page 19.
www.gateway.com 4 To adjust device volume levels, click Mixer. The Volume Mixer dialog box opens, where you can click and drag sliders for individual devices. Tip Adjust the Windows Sounds slider to change system sounds volume independently of general volume (such as the volume used for music and game sounds). 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.
CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started Configuring the audio jacks If the back of your computer has five audio jacks, they are universal jacks. This means that they can be used for more than one purpose. For example, the blue jack on the computer can be a stereo in jack or a stereo out jack. To use the audio jacks for something other than the default audio device, you need to configure the audio jacks.
www.gateway.com IEEE 1394 and USB ports support plug-and-play and hot-swapping, which means that your computer will usually recognize such a device whenever you plug it into the appropriate port. When you use an IEEE 1394 or USB device for the first time, your computer will prompt you to install any software the device needs. After doing this, you can disconnect and reconnect the device at any time. Help For more information about installing peripheral devices, click Start, then click Help and Support.
CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started 32
CHAPTER4 Upgrading Your Computer • • • • • • • • • Preventing static electricity discharge Opening the case Closing the case Replacing the color panel Installing memory Adding or replacing an optical disc drive Replacing the memory card reader Adding or replacing a hard drive Adding or replacing an expansion card 33
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. The components inside your computer are extremely sensitive to static electricity, also known as electrostatic discharge (ESD).
www.gateway.com Opening the case Your computer case provides easy access to internal components. Removing the left side panel 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. To remove the left side panel: 1 Follow the instructions in “Preventing static electricity discharge” on page 34.
CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer Removing the right side panel 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. To remove the right side panel: 1 Make sure that the left side panel has already been removed by following the instructions in “Removing the left side panel” on page 35. 2 Remove the two Phillips screws on the back edge of the right side panel.
www.gateway.com Removing the front bezel Tip The bezel is the front “face” piece of your computer that has the optical drive faces and the brand logo. It must be removed for some upgrading tasks. To remove the front bezel: 1 Remove the side panels by following the instructions in “Removing the left side panel” on page 35 and “Removing the right side panel” on page 36.
CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer 3 On the right side of the computer, press the three bezel release tabs toward the outside until the bezel is released, then pull the front bezel off the computer. Caution If the tabs were pressed correctly, the bezel should be easily removed. If it does not move easily, make sure that the tabs have been pressed far enough to release the bezel.
www.gateway.com Replacing the side panels To replace the side panels: 1 Make sure that all internal cables are arranged inside the computer so they will not be pinched when you close the computer. 2 Slide the side panels toward the front of the computer until the backs of the side panels are flush with the back of the computer. 3 Secure the right side panel with the two Phillips screws you removed previously, then secure the left side panel with the two thumbscrews you removed previously.
CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer Replacing the color panel To replace the color panel on the front bezel: 1 Remove the front bezel by following the instructions in “Removing the front bezel” on page 37. 2 Press the lower panel release tabs up, and press the upper panel release tabs inward. The color panel should slide out easily.
www.gateway.com 3 Slide the new color panel into position, then firmly press it against the front bezel until it clicks into place. 4 Reinstall the front bezel by following the instructions in “Replacing the front bezel” on page 38. 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.
CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer 4 If you are removing a memory module from a memory slot, gently pull the plastic tabs away from the sides of the memory module and remove it. - OR If you are adding a memory module to an empty memory slot, gently pull the plastic tabs away from the sides of the memory slot. 5 Align the notch on the new module with the notch in the memory slot and press the module firmly into the slot.
www.gateway.com Adding or replacing an optical disc drive Tools You need a Phillips screwdriver to add or replace an optical drive. To add replace an optical drive: 1 Remove the front bezel by following the instructions in “Removing the front bezel” on page 37. 2 If you are installing a new drive (not replacing an old one), remove the two drive retention screws in the drive bay, then go to Step 7. For the location of the screws, see the photo in Step 5.
CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer 5 Remove the two drive retention screws. Drive retention screws 6 Slide the drive forward and out of the drive bay. 7 Slide the new drive into the drive bay, line up the screw holes on the drive bay with the screw holes on the drive, then replace the two drive retention screws. Important Make sure that the optical drive’s screw holes are lined up with the correct holes in the drive bay.
www.gateway.com Replacing the memory card reader Tools You need a Phillips screwdriver to replace the memory card reader. To replace the memory card reader: 1 Remove the front bezel by following the instructions in “Removing the front bezel” on page 37. 2 Firmly press the top bezel release tab. The release tab is in the top of the case, between the power supply and the optical drive. Tip The top bezel is the plastic piece that forms the top of your computer case.
CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer 4 Unplug the cables connected to the card reader, and slide cables out of the clips that hold them down. Make note of the cable locations. 5 Remove the screw that secures the card reader to the computer, then remove the card reader. Screw 6 Slide the new card reader into place, then secure it with the screw you removed previously. 7 Plug the appropriate cables into the card reader.
www.gateway.com Adding or replacing a hard drive To add or replace a hard drive: Tools You need a Phillips screwdriver to add or replace a hard drive. 1 Remove the left side panel by following the instructions in “Removing the left side panel” on page 35. 2 Disconnect and label all hard drive cables, noting their locations and orientation. (You will reconnect the cables after you install the new drive.
CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer 4 If you are replacing a drive, note any jumper settings on the old drive and set the jumper on the new drive to be the same. - OR If you are adding a new drive, set the jumper as instructed by the drive’s user guide. 5 Slide the new hard drive into the cage, then secure it to the cage using either the two screws you removed previously or mounting screws provided with your new drive. 6 Connect the drive cables. If you are replacing a drive, use your notes from Step 2.
www.gateway.com 3 Remove the Phillips screw that secures either the metal slot cover or the old expansion card. 4 If you are replacing an expansion card, remove the old 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. 5 Install the new card into the expansion slot.
CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer 50
CHAPTER5 Maintaining Your Computer • • • • • • • • Setting up a maintenance schedule Caring for your computer Cleaning your computer Updating Windows Using BigFix Managing hard drive space Scheduling maintenance tasks Moving from your old computer 51
CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer Setting up a maintenance schedule Use the following table to set up a regular maintenance schedule.
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.
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.
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.
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: 1 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.
www.gateway.com Using BigFix 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. To start BigFix: 1 Click (Start), All Programs, Accessories, System Tools, then click BigFix. 2 To learn more about BigFix, click Help, then click Tutorial.
CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer Managing hard drive space Windows provides several utilities you can use to check hard drive space, delete unnecessary files, defragment files, and back up files. Checking hard drive space To check hard drive space: Shortcut Start Á Computer Á right-click drive Á Properties 1 Click (Start) then click Computer. The Computer window opens.
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. To delete unnecessary files: Shortcut Start Á Computer Á right-click drive Á Properties Á Disk Cleanup 1 Click (Start), All Programs, Accessories, System Tools, then click Disk Cleanup. The Disk Cleanup dialog box opens.
CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer 2 Click one of the options: • My files only cleans only the folders for the currently logged in user. • Files from all users on this computer cleans all folders. The Disk Cleanup dilalog box opens. 3 Click to select the types of files you want to delete, then click OK. The types of files you indicated are deleted. Help For more information about keeping the hard drive free of unnecessary files, click Start, then click Help and Support.
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.
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. Help For more information about defragmenting the hard drive, click Start, then click Help and Support.
www.gateway.com To back up files: (Start) then click Computer. The Computer window opens. 1 Click 2 Right-click the drive that you want to back up, click Properties, then click the Tools tab. 3 Click Backup Now, then click Run a file backup now. 4 Follow the on-screen instructions to select a backup storage location and the files and folders to back up. Help For more information about backing up files, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type backup in the Search Help box, then press ENTER.
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: (Start), All Programs, Accessories, System Tools, then click Task Scheduler. The Task Scheduler dialog box opens.
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, providing your old computer uses Windows XP or Windows Vista. While using Windows Easy Transfer, you will not be able to run other tasks on the computers.
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 or My Documents folder. Look in your old computer’s documents folder for personal data files.
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... Documents .DOC, .TXT, .RTF, .HTM, .HTML, .
CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer 68
CHAPTER6 Troubleshooting • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Error messages Internet and networking Power Display Printing Optical discs Memory card reader Mouse Keyboard Files Memory Audio Passwords Expansion cards Media Center Checking for device problems Recovering your system Technical support 69
CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting Safety guidelines While troubleshooting your computer, follow these safety guidelines: 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.
www.gateway.com Error messages Error message Action “Insufficient disk space” See “You get an “Insufficient disk space” error message” on page 81. “Data error” See “You get a “Data error” message” on page 82. “General failure reading drive C” See “The hard drive cannot be accessed, or you see a “General failure reading drive C” error message” on page 82. “Operating system not found” See “You get an “Operating system not found” error message” on page 82.
CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting Internet and networking Internet If you do not find a solution to your problem in this section, the issue may be networking related. See “Networking” on page 76 for more information. You cannot connect to the Internet • If you are using a cable or DSL modem, make sure that the modem cable is securely plugged into the Ethernet network jack. See more troubleshooting at “Modem (cable or DSL)” on page 73.
www.gateway.com People are sending you e-mails, but you have not received them • Click the Receive or Send and Receive button in your e-mail program. This checks your mail server for incoming e-mail. • Make sure that your account with your Internet service provider (ISP) is set up correctly. Contact your ISP for technical support. E-mails you send are returned as undeliverable • Check the spelling of the e-mail address you are sending e-mail to.
CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting Modem (dial-up) See also “Internet and networking” on page 72. 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. • Make sure that your computer is connected to the telephone line and the telephone line has a dial tone. • Remove any line splitters or surge protectors from your telephone line, then check for a dial tone by plugging a working telephone into the telephone wall jack.
www.gateway.com You cannot connect to the Internet • The ISP may be having technical difficulties. Contact your ISP for technical support. • Review the troubleshooting information under “Internet and networking” on page 72. Your 56K modem does not connect at 56K Current FCC regulations restrict actual data transfer rates over public telephone lines to 53K. Other factors, such as line noise, telephone service provider equipment, or ISP limitations, may lower the speed even further.
CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting 3 Click the Modem tab, then adjust the Speaker volume control. 4 Click OK twice to close the dialog boxes. Networking You cannot see the other computers on your network • If a network cable is connected to your computer, make sure that the other end is plugged into a network router, switch, hub, or other network device. • Make sure that the other computers are turned on. • If you are using a router, make sure that it is turned on.
www.gateway.com Power Your computer will not turn on • Make sure that the power cord is connected to an AC power source and to your computer, and that your computer is turned on. If your power cables are connected to a power strip, make sure it is turned on. • Test the outlet by plugging in a working device, such as a lamp. • Make sure that the power cord is free from cuts or damage, and r eplace any damaged cables. Display The screen resolution is not correct • Change the screen resolution in Windows.
CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting The color is not uniform • Make sure that the display warms up for at least 30 minutes before making a final judgment about color uniformity. The text on the display is dim or difficult to read • Adjust the brightness and contrast controls. • Change the display settings. For instructions, see your online User Guide. • For more information about display types, see your display and video card documentation.
www.gateway.com • Reinstall the printer driver. See your printer’s user guide • • • for instructions. 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 on adding additional memory. Contact your printer manufacturer’s technical support.
CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting • The regional code of the movie disc may not match your • • drive’s regional code. Play only discs with a regional code for your region. The DVD regional code for the United States and Canada is 1, and the regional code for Mexico is 4. The Blu-ray regional code for North and South America is A, although many (if not most) Blu-ray movies are region-free. Update the device driver. For instructions, see “Checking for device problems” on page 87.
www.gateway.com Keyboard The keyboard does not work • Make sure that the keyboard cable is plugged in correctly. • Clean the keyboard by using an aerosol can of air with a narrow, straw-like extension to remove dust and lint trapped under the keys. • Try a keyboard that you know works to make sure that the keyboard port works. Liquid spilled in the keyboard • Turn off your computer and unplug the keyboard.
CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting A file was accidentally deleted • If a file was deleted while holding down the SHIFT key, or if the Recycle Bin has been emptied since the file was deleted, the file cannot be restored. To restore deleted files: 1 Double-click the Recycle Bin icon. 2 Right-click the file you want to restore, then click Restore. The file is restored to the place where it was originally deleted from. Help For more information about restoring deleted files, click Start, then click Help and Support.
www.gateway.com Checking the hard drive for errors Use Error-checking if you encounter hard drive problems. Error-checking examines the hard drive for file and folder problems, then corrects the data problems that it finds. To check the hard drive for errors: 1 Click (Start) then click Computer. The Computer window opens. 2 Right-click the drive that you want to check for errors, click Properties, then click the Tools tab. 3 Click Check Now, then click Start. Your drive is checked for errors.
CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting You see a “Not enough memory” error message • Close all programs, then restart your computer. • If you continue to receive this error message, consider adding more memory to your computer. Audio You are not getting sound from the speakers • Make sure that the volume controls are turned up and not muted. For more information, see “Adjusting the volume” on page 28. • If you are using external speakers: • Make sure that the speakers are turned on, and check the speaker connections.
www.gateway.com Expansion cards The computer does not recognize an expansion card • Restart your computer. • Make sure that you have installed the required software. For more information, see your expansion card’s documentation. • Remove the card from your computer’s expansion slot, then reinstall the card. Media Center This section only covers problems relating to Media Center mode. Media Center mode is available only on Windows Vista Home Premium and Ultimate versions.
CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting • Screen resolution—Many TVs cannot display the high • • resolution that your computer’s video signal uses, and may shift, scramble, or scroll the picture. For a better picture on a TV display, you may need to lower the computer’s screen resolution to 800 × 600 or 640 × 480. For more information about changing the screen resolution, see your online User Guide.
www.gateway.com Checking for device problems Faulty devices or corrupt device drivers can cause a variety of problems on your computer. Checking the condition of system devices and the status of their drivers can help pinpoint the problem. To check for device problems: 1 Click (Start), type device manager, then press ENTER. Device Manager opens. 2 Examine the list of computer device types. A device type with problems have a yellow triangle or red octogon indicating a problem or a failed condition.
CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting Recovering your system You can solve most computer problems by following the information in “Troubleshooting” on page 69 or in the technical support pages at www.gateway.com. Problem solving may also involve reinstalling 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.
www.gateway.com Creating recovery discs If your computer experiences problems that are not recoverable by other methods, you may need to reinstall the Windows operating system and factory-loaded software and drivers. To reinstall using discs, you must create the set of recovery discs beforehand. To create recovery discs: (Start), All Programs, Gateway, then click Gateway Recovery Management. Gateway Recovery Management opens.
CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting The Create Backup Disc dialog box opens. This dialog box tells you the number of blank, recordable discs you will need to complete the recovery discs. Make sure that you have the required number of identical, blank discs ready before continuing. 3 Insert a blank disc into the drive indicated in the Burn to list, then click Next. The first disc begins recording, and you can watch its progress on the screen. When the disc finishes recording, the drive ejects it.
www.gateway.com Recovering pre-installed software and drivers As a troubleshooting step, you may need to reinstall the software and device drivers that came pre-installed on your computer from the factory. You can recover using either your hard drive or the backup discs you have created. • New software—If you need to recover software that did not come pre-installed on your computer, you need to follow that software’s installation instructions.
CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting 3 Click Contents. A list of software and device drivers opens. 4 Click the install icon for the item you want to install, then follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation. Repeat this step for each item you want to reinstall. Returning to a previous system condition Microsoft System Restore periodically takes “snapshots” of your system settings and saves them as restore points.
www.gateway.com 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.
CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting Recovering from within Windows Vista To reinstall Windows Vista and all pre-installed software and drivers: 1 Click (Start), All Programs, Gateway, then click Gateway Recovery Management. Gateway Recovery Management opens. 2 Click the Restore tab, then click Restore system to factory default. The Confirm Restoration dialog box opens. 3 Click Yes, then click Start. A dialog box displays information about the hard drive that the operating system will be recovered to.
www.gateway.com Recovering from the hard drive during startup To reinstall Windows Vista and all pre-installed software and drivers: 1 Turn on your computer, then press ALT+F10 during startup. Gateway Recovery Management opens. 2 Click Restore system from factory default. Caution Continuing the process will erase all files on your hard drive. 3 Click Next to continue. Your hard drive’s original, factory-loaded contents are recovered. This process will take several minutes.
CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting Technical support Before calling Gateway Customer Care If you have a technical problem with your computer, follow these recommendations before contacting Gateway Customer Care: • Make sure that your computer is connected correctly to an AC power outlet that is supplying power. If you use a surge protector or power strip, make sure that it is turned on.
APPENDIXA Legal Notices • • • • Important safety information Regulatory compliance statements Environmental information Notices 97
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.
www.gateway.com Care during use Warning Do not use Gateway products in areas classified as hazardous locations. Such areas include patient care areas of medical and dental facilities, oxygen-laden environments, or industrial facilities. Warning To reduce the risk of fire, use only No. 26 AWG or larger (for example, No. 24 AWG ) UL-listed or CSA-certified telecommunication line cord for your dialup modem connection. • • • • • • • • • • Do not walk on the power cord or allow anything to rest on it.
APPENDIX A: Legal Notices • • • • Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver Connect the equipment to an outlet on a different circuit from that to which the receiver is connected Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help. Compliance accessories: The accessories associated with this equipment are: shielded video cable when an external monitor is connected.
www.gateway.com When programming or making test calls to emergency numbers: • Remain on the line and briefly explain to the dispatcher the reason for the call. • Perform such activities in the off-peak hours such as early morning or late evenings.
APPENDIX A: Legal Notices Laser safety statement Warning Use of controls or adjustments or performance of procedures other than those specified in this manual may result in hazardous radiation exposure. To prevent exposure to laser beams, do not try to open the enclosure of a CD or DVD drive. All Gateway systems equipped with CD and DVD drives comply with the appropriate safety standards, including IEC 825.
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.
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.
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.
APPENDIX A: Legal Notices 106
Index A AC power connector 8 accessories safety precautions 98 application key 20 audio analog speaker jack 9 audio in jack 10 center speaker jack 10 configuring jacks 30 front speaker jack 9 HDMI jack 9 headphone jack 9 line in jack 10 line out jack 9 microphone jack 7, 9 muting 28 rear speaker jack 10 recording 26 S/PDIF jack 9 side speaker jack 10 subwoofer jack 10 audio CD cleaning 56 audio in jack 10 audio jacks 7 audio playback buttons 19 B backing up files 62 BigFix 57 Blu-ray playing 25 recording 2
Index Certificate of Authenticity 3 cleaning audio CD 56 case 54 CD 56 computer screen 55 DVD 56 keyboard 55 LCD panel 55 mouse 55 screen 55 cleaning CRT screen 55 clicking 21 closing computer case 38 front bezel 38 unresponsive program 18 color panel replacing 40 configuring audio jacks 30 speakers 30 connecting cable modem 15 dial-up modem 16 DSL modem 15 PS/2 keyboard 8 PS/2 mouse 9 to Ethernet network 10, 15 to Internet 10, 15 to network 10, 15 connections analog speakers 9 audio in 10 cable modem 15 c
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Index re-installing software 91 PS/2 port 8 troubleshooting 81 USB port 7, 9 H keys and buttons hard drive 20 application adding 47 audio playback 19 backing up files 62 Fn 19 checking for errors 60, 83 function 19 checking for free space 58 mouse 21 defragmenting 61 navigating 20 deleting files and folders 59 numeric 20 replacing 47 Windows 19 scanning for errors 60, 83 troubleshooting 81 L HDMI 9 labels headphone jack 7, 9 Microsoft Certificate of Hibernate mode 7 Authenticity 3 hot-swapping 31 model nu
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Index P parallel port 31 password troubleshooting 84 PDA memory cards 26 peripheral devices 30 playing audio CD 25 Blu-ray Disc 25 DVD 25 Plug and Play devices IEEE 1394 support for USB support for 30 pointer moving 21 ports See connections power button 7 connector 8 Hibernate mode 7 source problems 14 Standby/Resume 7 troubleshooting 77 turning off computer turning on computer power button 7 power supply 15 printer installing 30 setting default 78 troubleshooting 78 USB port 7, 9 programs closing unrespon
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Index memory 83 memory card reader 80 monitor 77 mouse 80 network 76 passwords 84 power 77 printer 78 safety guidelines 70 screen 77, 79 screen area 77 screen resolution 77 technical support 96 telephone support 96 turning off computer 7, 17, 18 turning on computer 7, 16 TV tuner card 10 U uninterruptible power supply (UPS) 14 updating Windows 56 UPS 14 USB port 7, 9, 30 V video HDMI jack 9 playing 25 video jack 7 voltage checking selection 15 selection switch 15 volume adjusting 28 adjusting dial-up mod
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