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8512066.book Page i Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM Contents Chapter 1: About This Reference. . . . . . . . . . . . 1 About this guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Accessing the online User Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Gateway contact information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Chapter 2: Checking Out Your Computer . . . . . 5 Front . . . .
8512066.book Page ii Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM Contents RAID for performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 RAID for security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 RAID for both: performance and security . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Preparing your computer for RAID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Configuring RAID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Adding or replacing a RAID drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8512066.book Page iii Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com Cleaning the mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 Cleaning optical discs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 Updating Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 Using BigFix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 Managing hard drive space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8512066.book Page iv Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM Contents Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107 Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107 Sound . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109 Recovering your system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109 Recovering pre-installed software and drivers . . . . . . 110 Using Microsoft System Restore . . . .
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512066.book Page 2 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 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 support.
8512066.book Page 3 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com Gateway contact information The label on the side of your computer case contains information that identifies your computer model and serial number. Gateway Customer Care will need this information if you call for assistance. Webs ite: gatew ay.
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8512066.book Page 6 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Computer Front Important Your computer hardware options and port locations may vary from this illustration.
8512066.book Page 7 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 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, or recordable DVD drive. To identify your drive type and for more information about your drive, see your online User Guide.
8512066.book Page 8 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Computer Back Important Your computer’s hardware options and port locations may vary from this illustration.
8512066.book Page 9 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com Component Icon Description Rear speaker jack (black plug) Plug your rear right and left speakers into this jack. For more information, see “Configuring the audio jacks” “Configuring the audio jacks” on page 28. 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.
8512066.book Page 10 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Computer Component Audio input (Line in) jack (blue plug) -ORSide speaker jack Icon Description If the back of your computer has five audio jacks, this jack is user configurable for one of the following: Stereo in: Plug an external audio input source (such as a stereo) into this jack so you can record sound on your computer (Default). Stereo out: Plug your side left and right speakers into this jack.
8512066.book Page 11 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com Component Icon Description Digital coaxial audio port (some models) -ORVideo port Plug a single digital coaxial audio connector into this jack for digital audio. Provides digital audio output from a CD or DVD (optional). Serial port Plug a serial device into this port. For more information, see “Installing a printer, scanner, or other device” on page 28. PS/2 keyboard port Plug a PS/2 keyboard into this port.
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8512066.book Page 14 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 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 leve. • Place your feet flat on the floor or on a footrest.
8512066.book Page 15 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM 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.
8512066.book Page 16 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 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.
8512066.book Page 17 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM 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.
8512066.book Page 18 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 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 on the modem at the back of your computer.
8512066.book Page 19 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com 5 To open your computer’s main 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.
8512066.book Page 20 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started To put your computer to sleep: 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 or 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.
8512066.book Page 21 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM 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 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.
8512066.book Page 22 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started Feature Icon Description Navigation keys Press these keys to move the cursor to the beginning of a line, to the end of a line, up the page, down the page, to the beginning of a document, or to the end of a document. Indicators Show if your NUM LOCK, CAPS LOCK, or SCROLL LOCK keys are activated. Press the corresponding key to activate the function.
8512066.book Page 23 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com 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.
8512066.book Page 24 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 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 display. This illustration shows the standard mouse. 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.
8512066.book Page 25 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 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 computer display 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.
8512066.book Page 26 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM 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.
8512066.book Page 27 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM 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 X in the top-right corner of the window to close it.
8512066.book Page 28 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM 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.
8512066.book Page 29 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM 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.
8512066.book Page 30 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started How it increases performance The more drives you have in your RAID 0 array, the faster the potential drive reading performance. All hard drives have limitations on how fast they can read and write files. If half a file is stored on one RAID 0 drive and the other half on another RAID 0 drive, each drive only has to read half of the file.
8512066.book Page 31 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com RAID for security RAID 1 maintains a complete copy of a file set on each physical hard drive in the array. Maintaining simultaneous, complete copies of files across multiple hard drives is called mirroring. If a drive fails, the mirrored drive takes over and acts as the primary drive.
8512066.book Page 32 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started RAID 5 stripes both data and parity information across multiple drives. Striping across drives improves overall performance, and the parity information provides data protection. Because of the error-correction capabilities, if a drive fails, the data can be quickly and automatically fixed.
8512066.book Page 33 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com Preparing your computer for RAID Setting up RAID on your computer can involve two major steps, depending on how your computer has been configured. To prepare your computer for RAID: 1 Configure the RAID arrays. See the Array Manager User Guide, or “Configuring RAID” on page 33. 2 Install the operating system. Configuring RAID Enabling RAID If your computer had RAID enabled at the factory, you do not need to enable it.
8512066.book Page 34 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started Creating a RAID volume Because RAID can be configured so many ways, this procedure covers only the basics. To configure RAID: 1 Start (or restart) your computer. During startup, the RAID option screen appears. (Number and specifications of your drives may vary from the example.) 2 While the RAID option screen is open, press CTRL+i. The Matrix Storage Manager opens. 3 Highlight 1.
8512066.book Page 35 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com 4 Change the following settings: • Name—Type a volume name (up to 16 characters) or use the default name, then press ENTER. • RAID Level—Press ↑ or ↓ to select the RAID level, • • • then press ENTER. Select Disks—Press ↑ or ↓ to highlight drives, press the spacebar to select (mark with a green triangle) each drive to use in the array, then press ENTER. You must select a minimum of two drives.
8512066.book Page 36 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started 4 Press ↑ or ↓ to highlight the RAID volume you want to delete, then press DELETE. A warning message appears. 5 Type Y to confirm volume deletion. Resetting drives to non-RAID status To troubleshoot or repair incompatible RAID configurations, failed RAID volumes, or failed drives within a RAID volume, you can reset the drives to non-RAID status until the problems can be resolved.
8512066.book Page 37 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com Getting help For more information on RAID concepts, configuration, and maintenance, search for RAID FAQ information on the Gateway Technical Support Web site (www.gateway.com) and the Intel Support & Downloads Web site (support.intel.com).
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8512066.book Page 40 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 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.
8512066.book Page 41 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com Opening the case Your computer case provides easy access to internal components. Removing the 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 side panel: 1 Follow the instructions in “Preventing static electricity discharge” on page 40.
8512066.book Page 42 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer 6 Lift the cover release lever, then swing the side panel away from the computer.
8512066.book Page 43 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com Removing the front bezel To remove the front bezel: • Push on the three spring tabs, grasp the right side of the front bezel, then pull the bezel out and away from the case.
8512066.book Page 44 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer Closing the case Replacing the front bezel 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. Tabs and slots 2 Swing the right side of the bezel in so the tabs on the right side of the bezel go into the slots on the right side of the computer. 3 Press the right side of the bezel firmly until it snaps into place.
8512066.book Page 45 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com 2 Insert the bottom edge of the side panel into the inside bottom edge of the computer, then swing the side panel in toward the top of the computer to secure it into place. 3 Replace the side panel thumbscrew. 4 Reconnect the cables and power cord. Adding or replacing 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.
8512066.book Page 46 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer 3 Find the memory module banks on your system board. 4 If you are removing a DIMM from the memory module bank, gently pull the plastic tabs away from the sides of the memory module and remove it. - OR If you are adding a DIMM to an empty memory module bank, gently pull the plastic tabs away from the sides of the memory module bank.
8512066.book Page 47 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com 10 Click (Start), right-click Computer, then click Properties. The amount of memory in your computer is displayed. 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 according to local hazardous materials regulations.
8512066.book Page 48 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer 8 Push the battery release tab. The battery pops out of the socket. Battery Battery release tab 9 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. 10 Return your computer to its upright position. 11 Replace the side panel by following the instructions in “Replacing the side panel” on page 44.
8512066.book Page 49 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com 3 If you are installing a new drive, slide the drive release latch toward the back of the computer, then go to Step 7. - OR If you are replacing an existing drive, disconnect the cables from the drive, noting their locations and orientation. You will reconnect the cables after you install the new drive. (CD/DVD drive shown.) 4 Remove the drive thumbscrew from the CD or DVD drive.
8512066.book Page 50 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer 5 Slide the drive release latch toward the back of the computer to release the drive. 6 Slide the drive forward and out of the drive bay. 7 If you are replacing a drive, note any jumper settings on the old drive and set the jumpers on the new drive to be the same. If you are installing a new drive, follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
8512066.book Page 51 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com Important The color and shape of your replacement drive's front cover may vary from your original drive. 3 If you are installing a new drive, go to Step 6. - OR If you are replacing an existing drive, disconnect the cables from the drive, noting their locations and orientation. You will reconnect the cables after you install the new drive. 4 Remove the thumbscrew from the diskette drive.
8512066.book Page 52 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer 9 Replace the front bezel by following the instructions in “Replacing the front bezel” on page 44. 10 Replace the side panel by following the instructions in “Replacing the side panel” on page 44. Adding or replacing the memory card reader To add or replace the memory card reader: 1 Remove the side panel by following the instructions in “Removing the side panel” on page 41.
8512066.book Page 53 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com 5 Remove the thumbscrew holding the card reader in the drive bay. Thumbscrew 6 Slide the drive release latch back to release the card reader, then slide the card reader out of the case. 7 Slide the new card reader into the bay from the front of the case, then slide the drive release latch forward to lock the drive into place. You do not need to replace the thumbscrew because it was originally installed for shipping purposes.
8512066.book Page 54 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer Adding or replacing a hard drive To add or replace a hard drive: 1 Remove the side panel by following the instructions in “Removing the side panel” on page 41. 2 If you are adding a new drive, slide the drive release latch toward you, then go to Step 5. - OR If you are replacing an existing drive, go to the next step. 3 Disconnect the drive cables, noting their locations and orientation.
8512066.book Page 55 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com 4 Remove the hard drive by sliding it out of the drive bay. 5 Note any jumper settings on the old drive and set the jumper on the new drive to be the same. If you are installing a new drive, follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Jumper 6 Slide the new drive into the drive bay, then secure it in the drive bay by sliding the drive release latch in toward the computer.
8512066.book Page 56 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer 12 If you are installing a primary drive, install Windows using the operating system DVD that came with your computer. For more information on restoring your system, see “Recovering your system” on page 109. Replacing the front fan To replace the front fan: 1 Remove the side panel by following the instructions in “Removing the side panel” on page 41.
8512066.book Page 57 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com 3 Disconnect the fan cable from the system board. The location of the fan connection may vary, so trace the fan cable from the fan to the system board. 4 Remove the fan mount by pressing in on the flat area (1) near the front, then rotating the fan mount (2) back. 2 1 5 Slide the old fan out of the fan mount. 6 Slide the new fan into the fan mount.
8512066.book Page 58 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer 8 Reconnect the fan cable to the system board. 9 Replace the fan cover. 10 Replace the side panel by following the instructions in “Replacing the side panel” on page 44. Replacing the rear fan Tools You need a Phillips screwdriver to replace the rear fan. To replace the rear fan: 1 Remove the side panel by following the instructions in “Removing the side panel” on page 41.
8512066.book Page 59 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com 3 Remove the four screws that secure the fan to the inside back of the computer, then remove the fan from inside the computer. Note the orientation of the fan and install the new fan the same way. Screws 4 Insert the new fan into the computer and line it up with the screw holes on the back of the computer, then replace the screws that secure it to the back of the computer. 5 Reconnect the fan cable to the system board.
8512066.book Page 60 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer Replacing the power supply Tools You need a Phillips screwdriver to replace the power supply. To replace the power supply: 1 Remove the side panel by following the instructions in “Removing the side panel” on page 41. 2 Disconnect the power supply cables from all components (such as hard drives, CD or DVD drives, and the system board), noting their locations and orientation.
8512066.book Page 61 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com Replacing the heat sink and processor Tools You need a Phillips screwdriver to replace the heat sink. To replace the heat sink and processor: 1 Remove the side panel by following the instructions in “Removing the side panel” on page 41. 2 For more stability, place your computer on its side. To avoid scratching the case, place it on a towel or other non-abrasive surface.
8512066.book Page 62 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer 4 Loosen the four screws that secure the heat sink to the system board, then remove the heat sink. (The screws cannot be completely removed.) Caution The heat sink has Thermal Interface Material (TIM) 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 TIM.
8512066.book Page 63 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com 9 Replace the fan cover. 10 Return your computer to its upright position. 11 Replace the side panel by following the instructions in “Replacing the side panel” on page 44. Replacing the I/O board Tools You need a Phillips screwdriver to replace the I/O board. To replace the front I/O board: 1 Remove the side panel by following the instructions in “Removing the side panel” on page 41.
8512066.book Page 64 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer 4 Remove the screw that secures the front I/O panel board to the computer, then remove the I/O panel board by pushing it toward the back of the computer. Screw 5 Disconnect the cable from the old I/O panel board and connect it to the new I/O panel board. 6 Insert the new I/O panel board into the computer, then replace the screw. 7 Place the front I/O assembly onto the computer, then replace the screw.
8512066.book Page 65 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 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 “Removing the side panel” on page 41. Important Your computer hardware options and port locations may vary from the illustrations below. 2 Loosen the thumbscrew on the expansion card cover. Tip For more stability, place your computer on its side.
8512066.book Page 66 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer 3 Open the expansion card cover. 4 If you are replacing a card, disconnect any cables that are attached to the card, noting their locations and orientation. (You may have to reconnect the cables after you install the new card.
8512066.book Page 67 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com 5 Remove the old expansion card (if necessary). You can slightly seesaw the card end-to-end to loosen it, but do not bend the card sideways. To remove a card (such as a video card) from the PCI Express slot, press the card release lever before trying to remove the card. Caution Do not touch the contacts on the bottom part of the expansion card. Touching the contacts can cause electrostatic damage to the card.
8512066.book Page 68 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer 10 Replace the side panel by following the instructions in “Replacing the side panel” on page 44. Replacing the system board Tools You need a Phillips screwdriver to replace the system board. To replace the system board: 1 Remove the side panel by following the instructions in “Removing the side panel” on page 41. 2 For more stability, place your computer on its side.
8512066.book Page 69 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com 5 Remove the fan cover by squeezing the top (1) and bottom (1), then pulling the cover (2) out. 1 2 1 6 Find the memory module banks on your system board. 7 Gently pull the plastic tabs away from the sides of the memory modules, then remove them. Caution The heat sink has Thermal Interface Material (TIM) located on the bottom of it. Use caution when you remove the old heat sink so you do not damage the TIM.
8512066.book Page 70 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer 8 Loosen the four screws that secure the heat sink to the system board, then remove the heat sink. (These screws cannot be completely removed.) Screws 9 Disconnect the power and data cables from the system board, noting their locations and orientation. (You will reconnect the cables after you install the new board.) 10 Remove the seven system board screws.
8512066.book Page 71 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com 11 Lift the system board up and out of the case. 12 Align the new system board on the standoffs and secure it into the computer case with the screws. 13 If your replacement system board does not include a processor, go to Step 14. -ORIf your replacement system board includes a processor, go to Step 17. 14 Release the processor from the old system board by pushing down on the lever, then lifting the lever completely up.
8512066.book Page 72 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 4: Upgrading Your Computer 20 Install the fan cover. 21 Install the expansion cards into the expansion slots. You can slightly seesaw a card end-to-end to help insert the card, but do not bend the card sideways. 22 Reconnect the expansion card cables using your notes from Step 3. 23 Return your computer to its upright position. 24 Replace the side panel by following the instructions in “Replacing the side panel” on page 44.
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8512066.book Page 74 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer Setting up a maintenance schedule Use the following table to set up a regular maintenance schedule.
8512066.book Page 75 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com • Avoid subjecting your computer to extreme • • temperature changes. The case can become brittle and easy to break in cold temperatures and can melt or warp in high temperatures. Damage due to either extreme is not covered by your warranty. As a general rule, your computer is safest at temperatures that are comfortable for you. Keep all liquids away from your computer.
8512066.book Page 76 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer Cleaning the exterior Warning When you shut down your computer, the power turns off, but some electrical current still flows through it. To avoid possible injury from electrical shock, unplug the power cord, modem cable, and network cable from the wall outlets. • Always turn off your computer and other peripheral devices before cleaning any components.
8512066.book Page 77 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com Cleaning the monitor Caution A flat-panel display is made of specially coated glass and can be scratched or damaged by abrasive or ammonia-based glass cleaners. To clean the monitor: • To clean an LCD flat panel monitor, use a soft cloth and • water to clean the screen. Dampen the cloth (never apply liquid directly to the screen), then wipe the screen with the cloth.
8512066.book Page 78 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer 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. New content is added to the site regularly, so you can always get the most recent updates and fixes to protect your computer and keep it running smoothly.
12066.book Page 79 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com 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. 2 Right-click the drive that you want to check for available file space, then click Properties. Drive space information appears.
8512066.book Page 80 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer 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 Ö Computer Ö right-click drive Ö Properties Ö Disk Cleanup 1 Click (Start), All Programs, Accessories, System Tools, then click Disk Cleanup. The Disk Cleanup dialog box opens.
8512066.book Page 81 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com Checking the hard drive for errors The Error-checking program examines the hard drive for physical flaws and file and folder problems. This program corrects file and folder problems and marks flawed areas on the hard drive so Windows does not use them. If you use your computer several hours every day, you probably want to run Error-checking once a week. If you use your computer less frequently, once a month may be adequate.
8512066.book Page 82 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer Help For more information about checking the hard drive for errors, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type checking for disk errors in the Search Help box, then press ENTER. Defragmenting the hard drive When working with files, sometimes Windows divides the file information into pieces and stores them in different places on the hard drive. This is called fragmentation, and it is normal.
8512066.book Page 83 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com 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. Type defragmenting in the Search Help box, then press ENTER. Backing up files Backing up files and removing them from the hard drive frees space for new files on the hard drive.
8512066.book Page 84 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer 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. 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.
8512066.book Page 85 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com Moving from your old computer Moving with Windows Easy Transfer 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.
8512066.book Page 86 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 5: Maintaining Your Computer Moving 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.
8512066.book Page 87 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com File type File usually ends in... Documents .DOC, .TXT, .RTF, .HTM, .HTML, .DOT Spreadsheets .XLS, .XLT, .TXT Pictures .JPG, .BMP, .GIF, .PDF, .PCT, .TIF, .PNG, .EPS Movies .MPEG, .MPG, .AVI, .GIF, .MOV Sound and music .WAV, .CDA, .MP3, .MID, .MIDI, .WMA To find files using Find or Search: 1 In Windows Vista, click (Start), then click Search. The Search Results window opens.
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8512066.book Page 90 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting Safety guidelines While troubleshooting your computer, follow these safety guidelines: Warning Never remove your computer case cover 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.
8512066.book Page 91 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com • If you added or removed peripheral devices, review the • installation procedures you performed and make sure that you followed each instruction. If an error occurs in a program, see the program’s printed documentation or the online help. Help For more information about troubleshooting, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type troubleshooting in the Search Help box, then press ENTER.
8512066.book Page 92 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting • Some music CDs have copy protection software. You may not be able to play these CDs on your computer. • Clean the disc. For more information, see “Cleaning optical discs” on page 77. • Restart your computer, then enter the BIOS Setup utility • • by pressing and holding F2 while your computer restarts. Make sure that the IDE controllers are enabled.
8512066.book Page 93 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com • DVDs and DVD drives contain regional codes that help control DVD title exports and help reduce illegal disc distribution. To be able to play a DVD, the disc’s regional code and your DVD drive’s regional code must match. The regional code on your DVD drive is determined by your computer’s delivery address. The regional code for the United States and Canada is 1. The regional code for Mexico is 4.
8512066.book Page 94 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting The computer does not recognize an add-in Ethernet card • Shut down and restart your computer. • Make sure that you have installed the required software. For more information, see the documentation that came with your Ethernet card. • Reseat the card. For more information about opening your computer case, see “Opening the case” on page 41.
8512066.book Page 95 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 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 80. Help For more information about file management, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type file management in the Search Help box, then press ENTER.
8512066.book Page 96 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting Internet See also “Modem (dial-up)” on page 102. 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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8512066.book Page 98 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 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.
8512066.book Page 99 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com • Type of connection used—You can connect the Media Center computer video output to a TV. However, the connection type has an affect on the video quality. The Media Center has two video outputs: • VGA—If your TV includes a VGA port, connect the VGA cable from the Media Center computer’s VGA (monitor) port to the TV’s VGA In port for the best quality. Many TVs do not have a VGA port.
8512066.book Page 100 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting • Type of TV (interlaced or progressive scan) Many TVs use interlaced video. Interlaced video displays a video frame with two passes of alternating scan lines. The TV screen first displays the video image odd lines one at a time, sequentially from top to bottom, then it fills in the other half of the video image with the even lines.
8512066.book Page 101 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com You want to know whether you can play recorded programs on other computers • Yes, you can. A DVR-MS file recorded to DVD can be replayed on another Media Center computer or on a non-Media Center computer that has a DVD player and DVD decoder software (such as WinDVD). The non-Media Center computer must also have at lease Windows XP with Service Pack (SP) 1 or 2, Windows Media Player 9 or later, and the Windows patch Q810243 Update.
8512066.book Page 102 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting Modem (cable or DSL) • See the documentation that came with your modem for additional troubleshooting information. Modem (dial-up) See also “Internet” on page 96. 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.
8512066.book Page 103 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com Help For more information about dialing properties, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type dialing in the Search Help box, then press ENTER. • 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.
8512066.book Page 104 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting If your computer has a v.90 modem, the speed at which you can upload (send) data is limited to 33.6K. If your computer has a v.92 modem, the speed at which you can upload data is limited to 48K. Your ISP may not support 48K uploads. 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.
8512066.book Page 105 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com 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.
8512066.book Page 106 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting The color is not uniform • Make sure that the monitor warms up for at least 30 minutes before making a final judgment about color uniformity. • Make sure that: • Non-shielded speakers are not placed too close to the monitor. • The monitor is not positioned too close to another monitor, electric fan, fluorescent light, metal shelf, or laser printer.
8512066.book Page 107 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com Networks You cannot connect to your company network Every network is unique. Contact your company computer department or network administrator for help. For more information about setting up a network in your home, see the “Networking Your Computer” chapter in your online User Guide. Help For more information about network troubleshooting, click Start, then click Help and Support.
8512066.book Page 108 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting 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 port. • Make sure that the printer is online. Many printers have an online/offline button that you may need to press so the printer can start printing. Press the button to put the printer online. • Check the cable for bent or broken pins.
8512066.book Page 109 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com • 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. You see a “Printer is out of paper” error message After adding paper, make sure that the printer is online.
8512066.book Page 110 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting Caution To prepare your computer for additional system recovery options, you should create a set of software and driver recovery discs as soon as possible. For instructions, see “Preparing for software and device driver recovery” on page 111. • To recover software and device drivers that were • • pre-installed at the factory, see “Recovering pre-installed software and drivers” on page 110.
8512066.book Page 111 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com Preparing for software and device driver recovery You can usually recover your pre-installed software and drivers from your hard drive. However, if you ever re-install Windows from the Windows DVD or install a new hard drive, you will need to recover your pre-installed software and drivers using a set of software and driver recovery discs. Because these discs do not come with your computer, you should create your own set.
8512066.book Page 112 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting 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. A dialog box opens that tells you the number of blank discs you will need to create a full set of recovery discs. 5 If you have enough blank discs of the specified type, click I have enough discs, then click Next.
8512066.book Page 113 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com 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.
8512066.book Page 114 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting 4 Click the software or driver you want to recover, then click Next. 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.
8512066.book Page 115 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com 2 To recover pre-installed software, click Application recovery, click the software you want to recover, then click Next. - OR To recover pre-installed device drivers, click Device driver recovery, click the type of driver you want to recover, then click Next. 3 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.
8512066.book Page 116 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting 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.
8512066.book Page 117 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM 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.
8512066.book Page 118 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting 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.
8512066.book Page 119 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com 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.
8512066.book Page 120 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting 8 Click Yes, then click Next. The Factory image recovery window opens, which shows you the progress of the system recovery. When recovery is finished, the Recovery is complete window opens. 9 Click Finish, then click Restart. Your computer restarts into its original factory condition.
8512066.book Page 121 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com Telephone 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 a grounded AC outlet that is supplying power. If you use a surge protector, make sure that it is turned on.
8512066.book Page 122 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM CHAPTER 6: Troubleshooting Telephone numbers Gateway offers a wide range of customer service, Customer Care, and information services. Automated troubleshooting system Service description How to reach Use an automated menu system and your telephone keypad to find answers to common problems.
8512066.book Page 123 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM www.gateway.com Self-help If you have how-to questions about using your Gateway-supplied hardware or software, see the following resources: • The printed or online documentation that came with your hardware or software. In many cases, additional product information and online documentation for Gateway-supplied hardware can be found in our Web site's Documentation Library. • This Reference Guide and the online User Guide.
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8512066.book Page 126 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 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.
8512066.book Page 127 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM 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 telecommunications line cord. • • • • • • • • • • Do not walk on the power cord or allow anything to rest on it.
8512066.book Page 128 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM 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.
8512066.book Page 129 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM 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.
8512066.book Page 130 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM 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.
8512066.book Page 131 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 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.
8512066.book Page 132 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 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.
8512066.book Page 133 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 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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8512066.book Page 136 Tuesday, January 16, 2007 11:02 AM Index speakers 28 connecting modem 18 PS/2 keyboard 11 PS/2 mouse 11 to Ethernet network 9, 17 to Internet 9 to network 9, 17 connections audio in 10 center speaker 10 digital camera 7, 10, 11, 28 digital coaxial audio 11 digital video camera 7, 9, 28 Ethernet 9, 17 external audio 10 external speakers 10 Firewire 7, 9, 28 front speaker 10 headphone 10 i.
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