Quick Start & Troubleshooting Guide T ABLE OF C ONTENTS Product Registration 2 Important Information 3 Computer Basics 4 Safety and Comfort ..................................................... 4 Safety Precautions ............................................... 4 Health Precautions............................................... 5 Getting to Know your Computer.................................. 6 Control Devices (Keyboard/Mouse)...................... 6 Volume Controls ..................................
P RODUCT R EGISTRATION When using your computer for the first time, it is recommended that you immediately register it.
I MPORTANT I NFORMATION Thank you for purchasing a Packard Bell computer! This guide has been designed to introduce you to the features of your computer and assist in your computing experience. It will also help you maintain your computer and troubleshoot in case you encounter a problem. To make the most of your computer, Packard Bell recommends you perform the actions described below before you start working with your computer.
C O M P U T E R B ASICS SAFETY AND COMFORT Safety Precautions Please follow the guidelines below to use your computer comfortably and to avoid health problems. Computer Environment Make sure that the computer: • Is used on a stable surface, stand or table. A fall can seriously damage the computer. • Is not used on a surface that vibrates, or used when taking part in sport, exercise or other activities in a dynamic environment.
Servicing your Computer Do not attempt to service your computer yourself, as opening or removing covers may expose you to dangerous voltage or other risks. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
GETTING TO KNOW YOUR COMPUTER Control Devices (Keyboard/Mouse) Cordless Devices The cordless mouse and keyboard normally connect automatically as soon as you turn your computer on. However, if the cordless mouse and keyboard do not work after installation, you should try to manually establish communication with the receiver. Note: The Keyboard/Mouse and Receiver shown below may not be the same as the Keyboard/Mouse supplied with your computer.
Keyboard The keyboard is used to enter text or commands. The functions of the keys depend on the program you are using. The keyboard displayed in this guide is just an example. The layout of your keyboard may vary slightly. For a full description of your keyboard, please refer to InfoCentre. 10 1 2 3 9 4 8 7 6 5 6 1. Numbers: Used to enter numbers and special characters. Press Shift simultaneously for characters on the top and press Ctrl+Alt for characters on the right. 2.
Volume Controls Apart from the volume controls on your computer, keyboard, monitor or speakers (depending on your equipment), you can also adjust the volume and balance of your speakers from Windows. Adjusting the Volume To adjust the volume, simply click on the Speaker icon located in the Notification Area, next to the clock. Drag the slider up or down to adjust the volume. Click on the small speaker icon to mute the volume. Click again to resume playback.
Your Computer’s Drives The drives described below are commonly used on Packard Bell computers. However, this does not mean that they are present on the computer you have purchased, nor that it is limited to these drives. To view documentation specific to the model you have purchased, please check Packard Bell InfoCentre. Memory Card Reader Memory cards are used in a wide selection of digital cameras, PDAs, MP3 players and mobile phones.
Disc Compatibility for Recordable Drives • DVD±RW Writer: DVD±RW drives (or DVD Dual drives) can write to recordable CDs, recordable DVDs ('' or '+'). • Double-Layer DVD-RW Writer: Double-Layer DVD-RW drives (or DVD+R9 DL drives) can write to recordable CDs and single- or double-layer recordable DVDs. • Blu-ray Combo Drive: Blu-ray Combo drives can write to recordable CDs, all 'standard' recordable DVDs (but not 'HD' DVDs) and may read from (but not write to) Blu-ray discs.
Communication Ports Network - Connect your computer to a network (‘LAN’) or certain high-speed Internet connections. Modem - An internal fax/data modem connects you to the Internet over a dial-up connection. A network port looks very similar to a modem port; they are often found near each other. The network port is slightly larger than the modem port.
Other Features Remote Control Receiver - The remote control receiver (Commercial IR) allows you to control the media functions of your computer from a distance when used with a compatible remote control (optional). Caution: The sensor is not an 'full' IR port and can only receive signals from a remote control. It cannot be used to communicate with other devices, such as mobile telephones. Turning your Computer ON or OFF Turning your Computer ON 1.
Forced Shutdown If your computer doesn’t respond, then try using the Task Manager. This utility provides information about your system’s performance and displays details about programs and processes running on your computer. To do so, press the Ctrl+Alt+Del keys simultaneously and select Start Task Manager. Click on the Applications tab, select the task that you want to end and click on End Task. Warning: If your computer still does not respond, press the computer power button to turn your computer off.
transfer your valuable data in a few seconds. To make temporary backups, this is a lot quicker than burning a CD or DVD! High capacity drives are also ideal for storing your favourite music, photos and videos and take them with you everywhere you go! Warranty Packard Bell computers come with a limited warranty. For further peace of mind, optional PB Care packs let you extend the standard warranty up to three years (one year + two additional years) and upgrade to on-site service for your computer.
I NTERNET AND S OFTWARE USING WINDOWS AND YOUR SOFTWARE Packard Bell computers include software to help you use your computer; the programs and categories available on your computer depend on the model purchased. Most of this software is ’pre-installed’ and ready to be used; however some software may be provided on a CD or DVD and must first be installed if you wish to use it. To do so, insert the installation CD or DVD.
Packard Bell Recovery Management To prepare your computer for system recovery options, you should create a set of recovery discs as soon as possible. Recovery discs take some time to create, but for long-term reliability, the effort is worth it. 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.
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. 4. Remove the disc from the drive and mark it with a permanent marker. Important: Write a unique, descriptive label on each disc, such as ‘Windows Recovery Disc 1 of 2’ or ‘Apps/ Drivers Recovery disc’. 5. If multiple discs are required, insert a new disc when prompted, then click OK.
Your Computer's Documentation User’s Guide (Packard Bell InfoCentre) This guide is not the only reference for information about your computer! InfoCentre, your electronic user’s guide contains information for your computer, giving you the help you need directly on your screen. You need to update this electronic user’s guide in order to have specific information for the computer you have purchased.
One or more media programs are installed on your computer, Windows Media Player and optionally Windows Media Center are provided by Microsoft. Other media programs may have been installed by Packard Bell to provide an improved media experience. Windows Media Player Windows Media Player may be used to play MP3 or WMA audio files, CDs or most video files. Note: It is not recommended that you use Windows Media Player to play DVD movies.
Playing downloaded files Downloaded files may work with the media programs installed on your computer, or may require specific programs. Files that include DRM functions may only play in specific programs (e.g. iTunes, Windows Media Player) or only on devices certified for use with the each type of file. Other formats may require a specific audio or video codec that may not have been installed on your computer.
phone exchange (service is sometimes unavailable in rural areas). Connection speeds vary depending on your location, but DSL generally provides very fast and reliable Internet connection. As the connection is always-on, it is generally charged at fixed monthly rates. Note: A DSL connection requires an appropriate modem. A modem is usually provided by the ISP when you register. Many of these modems include an ‘router’ that provides network and wi-fi access.
Network Cable (RJ45) A network cable (also called RJ45 cable) is used to connect the host computer to the access point (see illustration below); this type of cable may also be used to connect peripheral devices to the access point. Wireless Adapter This is connected to the computer that you wish to connect to your network, there are different types of wireless adapter available, the most common are: USB WiFi adapter: Connects to a free USB port on your computer.
Surf the Net! To surf the Internet, you need a program called an Internet browser. Internet Explorer provides an easy and secure web browsing experience. As soon as you have your Internet access installed and you are connected, click on the Internet Explorer shortcut located on the Windows desktop and take your Internet experience to a new level! Internet Explorer features The image below shows the Internet Explorer browser’s start page.
Google Desktop (optional) Google Desktop™ is a free pre-installed application that allows you to easily search and personalise your Packard Bell computer. Google Desktop provides full-text search over your email, files, music, photos, chats, Web pages you've viewed, and more. By making your computer searchable, Google Desktop puts your information easily within your reach and frees you from having to manually organise your files.
H ELPDESK SAFE COMPUTING To make the most of your new computer and ensure it runs smoothly for a long time, you should use the programs below and regularly perform the actions described in this guide. Maintenance Recommended maintenance tasks There are several tasks you should perform periodically (about once per month) to ensure your computer stays in good health: Error Checking Using the Check Disk tool regularly prevents your system from getting unreliable and information getting lost.
1. Perform a Disk Cleanup and close all open programs. 2. Click on Start > Computer. Right-click on the OS icon and select Properties. 3. Click on Tools and Defragment now.... 4. Click on the volume you want to defragment and click on Defragment to start. The whole process may take several hours to complete. It is best not to use your computer while running the Disk Defragmenter as any changes on your system may cause the process to restart.
Windows System Restore. System Restore monitors the changes to your computer and automatically creates restore points to revert to a previous time if necessary. It can undo harmful changes to your computer and restore its settings and performance, while saving your personal data files (such as documents, browsing history, drawings, favourites, or emails). Note: When you restore your computer you will need to reinstall any programs you installed after the restore point was created.
1. Click on Restore my computer to an earlier time, and then click on Next. 2. Select from the calendar the date when the restore point was created and click on Next. All the restore points that were created on the selected date are listed by name in the list box to the right of the calendar. 3. In the confirmation screen, click on Next to restore the computer to the selected date and time.
Definitions What is a Virus? Malicious software, typically called ‘viruses’, are programs designed to infect and damage computers. Most viruses are transmitted over the Internet, emails or malicious Web sites. A typical virus will replicate and pass itself undetected to multiple computers. Other forms of nuisance, such as Trojan horses, worms or spam can infect your computer in various ways, using up resources or clogging up a network.
Protect your computer with security software. Several types of security software are necessary for basic online security. Security software essentials include firewall and antivirus programs. A firewall is usually your computer's first line of defense-it controls who and what can communicate with your computer online.
data. Another sign that you have a secure connection is the small lock icon in the bottom of your web browser (usually the right-hand corner). ✓ Pay attention to privacy policies on Web sites and in software. It is important to understand how an organization might collect and use your personal information before you share it with them. ✓ Guard your email address. Spammers and phishers sometimes send millions of messages to email addresses that may or may not exist in hopes of finding a potential victim.
Certain program need access to the Internet to function properly, or even function at all. If this is the case, you will usually be asked to allow access when you install a program, or the first time you use it. To check firewall settings, click on Start > Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Firewall. Note: When you first start to use a Firewall it is in a ‘Learning mode’, you may see pop-up windows alerting you that certain programs you know and trust wish to access the internet.
Note: You may turn off the User Account Control Messages (not recommended) in the User Account Control settings window. Internet Explorer Security Settings Internet sites use small files called cookies to keep track of user preferences and information. You can adjust your Internet browser's security settings to determine how much -or how little- information you are willing to accept from a Web site. To access Internet Explorer security settings: 1. In Internet Explorer, click on Tools > Internet Options. 2.
H ELPDESK DIAGNOSE & REPAIR We all experience problems with our computer from time to time... Before calling the Customer Contact Centre, please read the following. This troubleshooting guide will help you diagnose and solve some common problems. Please note that the solutions proposed in either one of the cases below may not be limited to that specific case and may be used to solve other computer issues. Note: Check the latest fixes on www.packardbell.com.
Nothing displays on the screen Power on all devices 1. Make sure that you have switched on both your computer and your monitor. Your computer is in suspend or power saving mode. 1. If the computer is in power saving mode, move the mouse or press a key on the keyboard to "wake up" the computer. 2. If the computer is in Sleep mode, press the power button. After a short pause the light should light up and you will be able to use your computer. A screen saver may be active. 1.
Removing additional external devices These devices may include a printer, a scanner, a modem, etc. 1. Disconnect all external devices from your computer, except the monitor cable and the keyboard. 2. Try to restart your computer and check if it works correctly. 3. If it does not, restart your computer without the keyboard and mouse. If it solves your problem, please contact the Customer Contact Center.
Disconnect or remove additional devices. Please read Removing additional external devices and Removing additional internal hardware on page 36. Use the Packard Bell Troubleshooter on the Packard Bell Support Website. Our online Troubleshooter (troubleshooter.packardbell.com) is an easy-to-use tool that provides quick access to troubleshooting solutions. Answer a few questions and our smart engine will help you with the right solution.
Click on Start > Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features. Did you notice strange behaviour in Internet browser or email program? Most problems affecting Internet applications, and potentially your whole operating system are caused by malicious software propagated when you are connected. To check if your computer has been infected, run a check with your antivirus and anti-spyware programs. To be fully efficient, these protection programs must be up-to-date.
1. Press the Ctrl+Alt+Del keys simultaneously or right-click on an empty space on the taskbar and select Task Manager. 2. Select the failing program in the list and click on End Task. Does this happen with only one application? If you notice that a specific program does not work correctly, try uninstalling and reinstalling it. Click on Start > Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features.
My Mouse Does Not Work 1. Your mouse is not properly connected. Follow the same procedure as for checking keyboard connection. 2. The mouse needs to be cleaned. a. Switch your computer OFF. b. Turn the mouse upside down. c. Open the underside of the mouse. d. Extract the track ball from the mouse belly and clean it. e. Gently clean the bearings in the track ball housing with a moist soft cloth.
Sound Upon Startup, My Computer Emits a Continuous Beeping Sound 1. There is a keyboard or mouse detection failure: Check your keyboard and mouse connections (page 6). 2. There may be a stuck key on the keyboard or a stuck button on the mouse: a. Switch your computer OFF. b. Press all the keys of your keyboard to ensure that no key is stuck. c. Tap the mousebuttons to ensure that none of them are stuck. d. Switch your computer ON again. My Computer Has no Sound 1. The speaker volume may be set too low.
✓ In thunderstorm conditions, make sure that you disconnect your modem from the telephone line and pull out the power cord from the power outlet. You Cannot Connect to the Internet 1. Your account details have not been released yet. a. After you have just performed your online subscription with an Internet Service Provider (ISP), it is recommended that you restart your computer to complete the Internet setup process. b.
b. Check that the dialling type is correctly set-up for your country. Click on Start > Control Panel. Change the View by: option to Large icons, then select Phone and Modem. Make any changes to match your phone configuration and click on OK to finish. 4. The modem is used by another program ("COM port in use" error message). You may have a telephone or fax program running; These use the modem and make it unavailable for other applications: a. Close all programs that might use the modem (e.g.
5. You have sent a message but and get an error message in reply. a. Check the spelling of your recipient's email address. b. Check with your recipient that the email address is still valid. Printer A printer may have been provided when you purchased your computer, or you may have purchased one later. Make sure you follow the installation instructions provided with the printer. My printer does not work The guidelines below cover the most common types of problems encountered with printers.
1. Check your computer's specifications • System Information Click on Start > All Programs > Accessories > System Tools > System Information. Select an item and click on the + to display more options. Note: For a quick overview of your computer's specifications, please read the model description on your computer's packaging. 2. Installing a program When you install a new program, first read the instructions included with it as installation instructions can vary from product to product. a.
H ELPDESK RECOVERING YOUR SYSTEM If the troubleshooting steps (page 34) did not help fix your problem, you can run the Packard Bell Recovery Management program. This will restore your computer to the same state as when you purchased it, while giving you an option to retain all settings and personal data for later retrieval. To recover your system 1. Create recovery discs as soon as you can. You can use these discs later for recovering your system from significant hardware and software problems.
3. Click on Contents. A list of software and device drivers opens. 4. Click on 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.
Returning your system to its factory condition If your computer experiences problems that are not recoverable by other methods, you may need to reinstall everything to return your system to its factory condition. You can reinstall using either your hard drive or the recovery discs you have created. Caution: This complete recovery deletes everything on your hard drive, then reinstalls Windows and all software and drivers that were pre-installed on your system.
R EGULATORY I NFORMATION CE COMPLIANCE REQUIREMENT Products with the CE marking comply with both the Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive (2004/108/EC) and the Low Voltage Directive (2006/95/EC) issued by the Council of the European Communities.
Power Cables and Plug This Product requires a three-wire grounded power cord and plug. The plug only fits in a grounded power outlet. Make sure the power outlet is properly grounded before inserting the plug. Do not insert the plug into a non-grounded power outlet. Contact your electrician for details. The cord length must not exceed 2.5 metres. To prevent electrical hazards, do not remove or disable the ground contact on the power cord. Replace the power cord if it gets damaged.
E NVIRONMENT PACKARD BELL’S COMMITMENT TO ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION Environment has been at the heart of our products. Packard Bell is committed to limit the environmental impact of its products during product lifecycle. Starting at design phase, with a very strict procurement policy, maximum attention is given to electronic components in order to limit their weight in heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, chromium, mercury, etc. Suppliers are asked, for each part of any product, to respect all regulations.
S OFTWARE L I C E N S E Note: Most of the software applications are already preinstalled on your Packard Bell computer. They are ready to use or to set up. However, some titles require a CD or DVD to run. You will find these discs in your computer's packaging. Packard Bell License Agreement (CD and/or DVD Products). This copy of the original is your proof of license. Please treat it as valuable property. Important! Read carefully before installing the software.
I NDEX A Aerial......................................................................................... 11 Audio CDs........................................................................... 19, 41 Audio ports................................................................................ 11 Autoplay ................................................................................... 19 B Backups..................................................................................... 13 Batteries...........
Recovery Management Program ...................................... 16 Website ............................................................................ 24 Pointer ......................................................................................... 7 Ports.......................................................................................... 10 Power cords.................................................................................. 4 Power on/off ..............................................
